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COMMEMORATIVE 



Biographical Record 






-OF- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY, 

PENNSYLVANIA, 



CONTAIN I NO 



Biographical Sketches of Prominent and Representative 

Citizens, and of many of the Early 

Settled Families. 



I L I.U ST K AT E 1 > 






CHICAGO: 

J. H. BEERS & CO. 

1893. 



'0% 



30hn morris company, 
. . . Printers. 



w. b. conkey company, 
. . Binders. 



9> 



i>9' 




- , *■ > 

REFACB. 



f 






THE importance of placing in book form biographical history of represent- 
ative citizens both for its immediate worth and for its value to coming 
generations is admitted by all thinking people; and within the past 
le there has been a growing interest in this commendable means of 
perpetuating biography and family genealogy. 

That the public is entitled to the privileges afforded by a work of this 
nature needs no assertion at our hands; for one of our greatest Americans has 
said that the history of any country resolves itself into the biographies of its 
stout, earnest and representative citizens. This medium, then, serves more than 
a single purpose: while it perpetuates biography and family genealogy, it records 
history, much of which would be preserved in no other way. 

In presenting the Commemobative 1!k>«raphical Record to its patrons, the 
publishers have to acknowledge, with gratitude, the encouragement and support 
their enterprise has received, and the willing assistance rendered in enabling 
them to surmount the many unforeseen obstacles to be met with in the pro 
duction of a work of this character. In nearly every instance the material 
composing the sketches was gathered from those immediately interested, and 
then submitted in type-written form for correction and revision. The volume, 
which is one of generous amplitude, is placed in the hands of the public with 
the belief that it will be found a valuable addition to the library, as well as an 
invaluable contribution to the historical literature of southwestern Pennsylvania. 

THE PUBLISHERS. 



Wm 




\ 




-ff^ ^\^U^a-^> %?e_??7c9u<*\j 



Washington Bounty. 





;;;i; MOYNE, DR. FRANCIS 
■I ( LIUS,was born Septem 
ber I. i 798, in Washing 
ton, I'l'iin. . where be spent 
his whole life, dy ing there 
October 11. 1879, in his 
£j£V eighty Becondyear. The 
fepS'/ - ' - ' i^C?"* father of Dr. Le Moyne 
was Dr. John Julius Le Moyne, who 
was horn and educated in Paris, 
France. He was a practicing physi 
oian at the beginning of the French 
Revolution in L 790, and came to the 
I aited States with the French colo- 
nists who settled at Gallipolis, Ohio. 
Several years after he came to Wash 
ington, Penn., and in 171)7 married 
Nancy MoCully, who had come over 
from Ireland with her family when a 
little girl. 

The .subject of this memoir was their only child. 
Prom the Scotch-Irish side of the house he de ; 
rived a robust constitution and physical develop 
tnenl that was unusual for strength, activity and en 
durance. As a young man, he had but few equals 
in all the sports that required strength and nerve. 
His school days were spent in his native town, 
where at the age of seventeen he graduated from 
Washington College in the class of 1815. He 
commenced the study of medicine with his father. 
and finished his course in Philadelphia. On his 
return from Philadelphia in the winter, in an old 
fashioned stagecoach, whose flimsy blinds were in- 
sufficient to repel the cold, they stopped, far in the 
night, at one of the hostelries in the mountains, 
which was filled with wagoners who occupied all the 
available space where warmth could be obtained. 
Not being therefore able to stop, the passengers 
were literally packed up to their necks in straw 
within the coach, and started toward Pittsburgh. 




from which Dr. Le Moyne rode to Washington 
on horseback in a most terrible storm. It was 
a dreadful and dangerous ride, and the result 
was that be was so Bei'ioUsly injured by the expos 
urn as to be a chronic Bufferer from rheumatism 
for the rest of his life. He commenced the prac- 
tice of medicine in 1822. Shortly after his return 
from the Fast, he met Miss Madelaine Romaine 
Bureau, at his father's house, who had accompa 
nied her -.ister from Gallipolis in order to receive 
medical treatment. The young Doctor beiugsmit 
ten by the charms of the sprightly young lady, 
thej were married in May, 1823. 

About this time his father Buffered heavy pecu- 
niary losses by bis endorsement for his friends, and 
his house, the present homestead, was sold to meet 
his liabilities. Francis borrowed the money from 
two kind friends, Mr. Alexander Reed and Mr. 
Kerr, who lent him upon his own endorsement, 
and he bought in the house. Thus he started in 
life heavily in debt. In a few years, by hard work 
and the most economical living, he not only paid 
off his own debts, but relieved his father from his 
embarrassments also. Our subject had eight chil- 
dren — three sons and five daughters — all of whom 
are living. Feeling deeply interested in educa 
tion, he early manifested a desire to promote and 
extend its benefits. On April 2, 1830, he was 
elected a trustee of Washington College, in which 
position he remained a prominent and useful mem 
ber until the union of Washington and Jefferson 
Colleges, which occurred in 1865. The Washing- 
ton Female Seminary was established in 1830, and 
the Doctor was one of its earliest and firmest 
friends, and a member of its original board of trust- 
ees, where he worked in company with Alex. 
Reed, Colin M. Reed, T. McK. T. McKennan, John 
H. Ewing, Alex. Sweeney, Jacob Slagle, John L. 
Gow and others. 

The Doctor became interested in the anti-slavery 



8 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



question in 1835 or 1836. He had the reputation 
of lining an abb- debater, having a line pre*. 
a good clear voice, a versatile and strongly Belf 

it mind, and, in addition, a How of language 
that made him a very dangerous adversary on the 
platform. On one occasion a young man, an early 
advocate of the anti slavery cause, appeared in 
Washington and injudiciously gave a general chal- 
lenge for a discussion. The challenge was at once 
accepted, and the day fixed for the meeting. The 
challenger expected to have Rev. Dr. Blanchard 
as his champion, but from some mischance the lat- 
ter had left Pittsburgh before the news could 
reach him, and the young man came back himself 
to meet t he engagement with forebodings of de- 
feat. In this dilemma an appeal was made to Dr. 
Le Moyne for assistance, as he was known to be 
fond of intellectual gymnastics and always ready 
for a discussion. The Doctor, however, excused 
himself, had not examined the subject, was not 
prepared. But on being shown the constitution of 
i he A nl i slaver) Society, which was for the most part 
a declaration of the rights of man, he was induced 
lo enter the arena as the champion of the slave. 
J 1 ' rom this time forward he was known as one of 
the most aggressive of the anti slavery party, and 
at the same time an opponent of the American 
i '"Ionization Society, which he believed was estab- 
lished in the interests of American slavery. He 
became so prominent a partizan that in 1S41 he 
was the candidate of the Abolition party for Gov 
ernoi of Pennsylvania. Of course he had no ex- 
pectation of being elected, the object of the cam- 
paign being to create a political balance of power 
that would ultimately control the other parties. 
At the next election, in 1844, he was again the 
candidate, an 1 also in 1847, During the early 
discussion both public and private, upon this ex 
citing subject, there was sometimes manifested an 
intolerance toward him and his party that was 
painful and often oppressive. He was a man, 
however, who was not to lie daunted by any show 
of force. Such was his peculiar mental constitution 
that majorities had no influence upon his judgments 
and actions. He was an original, independent 
thinker, and nothing apparently gave him BO much 
satisfaction as the opportunity to maintain his 
\iews by discussion with a champion whom he con- 
sidered a worthy opponent. After years spent in 
advocating the cause of liberty, he hail the satis 

hi and happiness of seeing the object of his 

greatest hopes accomplished in tl mancipation 

of the slaves of the United States, and indeed in 
almost the whole woi Id 

Having suffered, as. we have already related, a 
severe shock from exposure, Dr. Le Moyne was 
Compelled, when about fiftj five years of age, to 
relinquish the aduous practice of his profes 

real were his Bufferings, which be bore with 



heroic fortitude, that for twenty-nine years he 
never occupied a bed to seek a night's repose. Of 
these matters of personal suffering he was very 
reluctant to speak, preferring to Buffer in silence 
rather than annoy his friends with his griefs which 
he well knew they could not even alleviate. The 
latter portion of his life was devoted to banking, 
farming and the interests of education. He was a 
successful business man, and accumulated con- 
siderable property. As a farmer he was very en- 
thusiastic aud successful. He was one .of the 
original members of the Washington County Agri 
cultural Society, and maintained an active interest 
in it during his whole life. He farmed with 
brains. Being a chemist he understood some 
thing of the relations of plants to soils, aud feilil 
and it was very instructive to listen to his 
theories, which were, in many cases, the result of 
his own observation and experiments. He was one 
of the lirst to appreciate the importance of introduc- 
ing improved sheep, cattle and horses into the coun- 
ty as a means of increasing the natural wealth of 
the people. He left a herd of the finest cattle in 
the State, aud an elegant stock horse of superior 
blood. For years he was a member of a Farmers 
Club, that met in Washington for the comparison 
of views and for the discussion of such topics as 
concerned their peculiar interests. In L866 and 
18b7, as president of the National Wool Growers 
Association, he succeeded in harmonizing the 
views of the manufacturers and producers of wool. 
and as a result their united efforts obtained the 
passage through Congress of the best wool tariff 
law the country has ever had. 

When the erection of the present Town Hall in 
Washington was first talked of, Dr. F. Julius Le 
Moyne offered, if room in the building was given, 
to donate the sum of {10,000 to found a public 
library. When the building project became set 
tied, the offer was accepted, and the two large 
reading rooms with the vault rooms in them were 
set apart for the use of the library. Two thousand 
dollars of the sum donated- was used in making 
fire proof vaults where the books are kept. A like 
sum was set apart to be invested permanently, the 
annual interest thereon to be used in making ad 
ditions of books; the remainder, $6,tMI", has been 
expended in the purchase of the body of the library. 
The Citizens Library Association, in whose charge 
the library is, was incorporated by the court May 
"_'T, L870, upon the petition of Dr. Le Moyne ami 
others. The board of curators is composed of five 
persons: One appointed by the trustees of the col- 
lege: one appointed by the court ; aud three elected 
b\ the people to serve for the term of three years; 
until his death Dr. Le Moyne was a member and 
president of the hoard. No one took a deeper in- 
terest in the matters of the corporation than he, 
aud no one labored more zealously to make it a 



Washington ovh n 



9 



power for good in the community. He diil not 
limit bis labors to devising plans for othe 
carry out, but, of choice, performed much of the 
drudgery himself. The first catalogue which was 
used for years was entirely the work of his heart 
and hand It embraces several thousands of en- 
tries in the work, giving in one place for each 
work the title, name of author, shelf letter and 
number, and in another the name of the author, 
followed by the title, shelf letter and number. In 
doing this he would often write until after mid 
night, and the neat round hand, carefully ma de 
letters and figures show that Dr. LeMoyneslighted 
nothing that came under his eyeorhand. Ee 
often expressed his regret at. the meetings of the 
curators that the work did not go forward more 
rapidly, and even during the last year, when he was 
suffering intensely, expressed his willingness to do 
any work that would fall to him. When he be 
came unable to visit the library, at almost every 
meeting of the hoard he would make inquiry of the 
members as to number and character of thepere tns 
visiting the looms nightly. Particularly was he 
desirous of making the library a place of resorl 
for boys. Be felt that while occupied there, they 
would not only lie out of temptation, but would 
have the opportunity of acquiring useful knowl- 
edge. In selecting books his doubt about approv 
iug a book was remove I by some one saying il 

"was it good book for boys." 1'lie only regret he 
had to express was that the people did not pit 
ionize the library in larger numbers, and that its 
influence was not more extensively felt in tin' com 
miinity. Hut he was never heard to take to him 
self any credit, for his munificent donation which 
breathed into life ami kept on foot the library; on 

the contrary, lie was disposed to assume t hat he 
had done nothing more than the duty he owed as 
a citizen of the community in which he had lived 
all his life. 

About the time that the donation of $10,UUO was 
made for the Citizens' library, the Doctor felt it 
his duty to do something for the elevation of the 
colored people of the South, who had been en 
f ranch ised by the war. He made a donation of 
$20,000 to the American Missionary Society, to be 
used in the erection and support of a colored 
normal school, in which colored people might be 
prepared to be the instructors of their race. A 
portion of this sum was devoted to building, and 
the remainder to the endowment of the institution. 
The site selected was on a bluff in the vicinity of 
the city of Memphis, Tenn. The school proved 
very successful, so much so that the Doctor added 
an additional $5,000 for its equipment. His views 
upon the subject of education were somewhat in 
opposition to the system under which he was 
brought up. In the curriculum of his day. a great 
deal of time was devoted to the study of Greek 



and Latin, very little to natural sciences and still 
less to English literature. The practical bent of 
his mind rebelled against what he deemed a false 
system of instruction, lie was a naturalist by in- 
stinct; a keen observer of all the phenomena of 
nature; a fine practical gardener; a devoted ad- 
mirer of flowers; a close botanical student and en- 
tomologist. These studies so charming to him 
were not taught him in school, and it was a matter 
of regret to'him that they had not been. He in- 
sisted that the study of the ancient classics, for 
the unprofessional students, did not afford an 
equivalent for the time and money spent in their 
ti piisition. With this idea in view he determined 
to endow a professorship in Washington and Jef- 
ferson College. In 187^ he paid to the treasurer 
of the College the sum of $20,000 to endow the 
chair entitled "The Le Moyne Professorship of 
Agriculture and ( lorrelal ive Branches," which chair 
is now filled by Prof. Ed Linton. In July, 1879, 

he made an additional endowment of $20,000 for 

a chair of Applied Mathematics, with an addi- 
tional $1,000 to better equip the said chair and 
the chair of Agriculture. Five hundred of this 
las! $1,000 gift was appropriated by the local 

trustees to purchase In part a set of Ward's Casts, 
which were on exhibition at the Pittsburgh Expo 

AboUt 1875 the Doctor became interested in 
the subject of cremation, and in order to show his 
faith in it as a proper means of disposing of the 
dead, he in 1ST!) built a crematory a short dis 
from town The furnace is but, little more 
in appearance than a large gas retort. Into this, 
when heated, the body is placed and there con- 
BUmed. Forty cremations have taken place in this 
crematory, the first being the remains of Baron 
he Palm, an Austrian, who died in New York, and 
which attracted more attention and newspaper 
comment than any like event since. Dr. Le Moyne's 
wishes in regard to his own remains were carried 
out to the letter, the cremation taking place on 
Thursday, October Hi. 1879. His ashes are buried 
in the crematory lot, marked by a monument of 
granite on which is the following inscription: 

P. JULIUS LE MOYNE, M. D. 

born 

SEPTEMBER I. 1798, 

died 
OCTOBER 14, 1879. 

"A FEAKLES8 LDVOI VII, OF Tin: BIGHT." 

The disease under which he finally succumbed 
was saccharine diabetes. With the eye of a phi 
losopher he watched the progress of the disease 
for nearly six years, a much longer period than is 



LO 



WASHINdTOiS COl'XT) . 



osuallj required Eor this malady to complete its 
work. At different periods investigations were 
interesting to himself and bis profession. An an 
topsy showed thai the conclusions arrived at by 
himself were in the main correct. 

And now, in (including these few and hasty 
lines, the question may arise what was the mental 
condition and what was the religious hope of this 
strung intellectual man, as he approached slowly 
but surely the confines which divide the present 
from the spirit world? Before the days of polit- 
ical abolitionism Dr. Le Moyne was a member of 
the Presbyterian Church, but when goaded to 
madness by the oppressions of slavery he felt that 
the church did not come up to what he conceived 
to lie its duty, and he withdrew. Some have sup- 
posed, on account of his withdrawal from the church, 
and from his views on the cremation of the dead, 
that he had cut loose from his Christian moor- 
ing-, aud had drilled away out upon the shoreless 
sea of infidelity. He maintained that the burning 
of the dead was wholly and entirely a secular and 
sanitary measure, altogether outside of any relig- 
ious considerations. The disposal of the dead, 
he maintained, should be made entirely dependent 
upon the safety and comfort of the living. Those 
who knew him best, and were most intimate with 
his views, are very free to assert that he never lost 
confidence in the great doctrine of salvation through 
faith in the merits of the atonement offered by 
the blood of Christ. 



y RACHEL HARDING, retired merchant, re- 
siding in the borough of Washington, was 
born in Maryland in 18-!8, and is descended 
from an English family who had immi- 
grated to that Stale in an early day. Matthew 
Harding, the grandfather, also a native of Mary 
land, was a prominent farmer in that State, and 
died there. 

Joseph Harding, father of our subject, was also 
born in Maryland, where he married Sophia 
young, who died there about the year 1845, 
Twelve children were born to them, live yet living, 
of whom: Vachel is the only one in Washington 
county, Penn. ; Joseph is a farmer in Allen county, 
Ind. ; Edward is a farmer in Alabama; John 
Hersey is a farmer in Allen county. Ind. ; Rebecca 
is married to John Elrichs, and lives in Maryland. 
The father departed this life in 1S7I. in Ohio, 
while on a visit to one of his sons. In his political 
preferments he was an Old -line Whig. 

Vachel Harding received 1ml a limited educa- 

at the subscription schools. At the age of 

fifteen he commenced clerking in a store at Hyatts 

town. M.I., and as he was then learning the trade 

received no salary for his services while there. 

At the age of eighteen years he removed to Union 



town, Penn., where he remained clerking in a dry 
Is store for five j'ears, or until 1851, when he 
came to Washington, this county, and here clerked 
for a short time for William Mills, an old-estab 
lished dry-goods merchant of the place. After- 
ward he went into business in a partnership; then 
for a time carried on business alone, and, later, 
was associated with James Brown in the clothing 
business, at the same time carrying on his dry 
goods department. In 1 St'»4 he gave up the dry 
goods business, and later he carried on a music 
business in Wheeling, W. Va. (but did not move 
from Washington), which after four years he sold 
to Adams & Lucas. After that he purchased a 
coal property, and was engaged in that business 
several years. In 1S88 he retired from active life. 
and is now peacefully enjoying the fruits of his 
industry at his comfortable home on Maiden street, 
Washington, where he has resided since L861. 

Mr. Harding married, October 15, L855, in Wash- 
ington, Annie Le Moyne, daughter of Dr. Francis 
Julius and Madelaine Romaine ( Bureau) Le Moyne. 
the former of whom was born September t. 1798, 
in Washington, this county, and died October 14, 
1879, his wife having preceded him to the grave 
in July. ISTM. To the union of Mr. and Mr- 
Harding were born children as follows: Charles 
V. (is married and lives in Washington, Penn), 
Madeline Sophia, deceased, and Annie, at home. 
Politically Mr. Harding is a Republican, and has 
held several offices of trust; he is uow a trustee of 
Washington and Jefferson College, and of Wash 
ington Female Seminary. He has been a member 
of the M. E. Church for forty years, aud for a long 
period was superintendent of the Sunday school. 
During the war of the Rebellion Mr. Harding sub 
scribed liberally of his means to assist in tilling the 
quota for the army, and also put in a substitute. 
He is a representative self made man, having coin 
menced life quite a poor boy, and presents an il 
lustration of what can be accomplished in business 
life by earnest application, industry and economy. 




ILLIAM L. MILNE, a leading contractor, 
of Washington. The .Milne family, of 
which this gentleman is a conspicuous 
— ' member, have been residents of Scotland 
for many generations, and trace theii 
lineage back to one Robert Milne, whose son, 
I "avid, married and reared a family of children as 
follows: Jennie. Jessie, Robert, David, James and 
one whose name has not been ascertained. The 
early ancestors followed farming, but the sons of 
the family just enumerated were for the most part 
mariners. 

David Milne, one of these sons of Robert Milne, 
began a "life on the ocean wave" at the early age 
of ten years, and devoted his entire life to his 



WASHINGT01S, COUNTY. 



11 



chosen vocation. He sailed around the world 
twice, and was a Bbip captain for over twenty years. 
In 1838 he was united in marriage with Annie. 
daughter of David Scott, who is supposed to have 
been a lineal descendant of the old Scott family. 
Five children were born to David Scott, viz.: 
Alice, Peter, James, David and Annie (the latter 
of whom was born in 1S19 and died in 1^72). 
David and Annie (Scott I Milne settled in Tayport, 
Kifeshire, Scotland, and three children were born 
to their union: James (now a resident of Chicago, 
where he was vice president of the Board of Trade I : 
Annie (living in Scotland, widow of Thomas Prim 
rose), and \\ illiam L. 

William L. Milne was bom March It), 1853, in 
Tayport, Scotland, and received an elementary 
education in his native country. Following bis 
father's example, the lad was eager to begin life 
for himself in his boyhood. His elder brother had 
emigrated to America, and Bent back enthusiastic 
descriptions of the New World, which tired the 
youthful imagination of the then thirteen yeai 

hoy. He tOO must go to this wonderful country, 
and he too would win fame and fortune in the 
" Land of the free and the home of the brave." 
Doubtless his mind was tilled (as in the case of 
mi. .si boys of his age) with roseate visions of the 
future, destined to be crushed by tin- stern realities 
of a hard life in a strange land, far from friends 
and home. But underneath the wild and in 
sible boyish dreams lay a firm resolve, a determi- 
nation and strength of purpose, inherited from the 
sailor father, who had chosen his life in his child- 
ish years. The parents at length recognized the 
fact that the boy was not cherishing a mere whim 
or fancy, which would be crushed out by harsh ex- 
perience, but a fixed resolution that must guide 
and determine his future life. So they consented 
to his journey, and one morning he bade fat 
to the land of his birth — a little choking in his 
throat as the " goodbye " worxls were spoken, one 
last look at the dear home fapes, the bonny hills of 
Scotland — and was fairly launched on his new 
life with the parting words of his father ringing 
in his ears: "Take good care of yourself; keep 
olean and good company." 

After landing in America the young aspirant 
went to Pittsburgh. Penn., where his brother was 
living, and bound himself out to his trade, under 
Col. D. B. Morris, colonel of the One Hundred and 
First P. V. I., and then came the test of his pur- 
poses, a trial to which many an older person would 
have yielded, and giving up their projects, have 
returned to the parental roof. Homesick and dis- 
couraged he certainly was. and so nearly van- 
quished by that discouraging feeling that within 
three weeks from the date of landing in the country 
of his dreams, the homesick boy would have given 
all he possessed (in reality the small sum of $10) 



to return to his dear old Scotland. lie must go 
home. In desperation he started to walk to New 
York, and getting as far as East Liberty, Penn., 
he asked a man how much farther it was to New 
York. He thought if he could reach that oitj lie 
might be able there to secure passage to Scotland 
on some ship in the capacity of cabin boy; but this 
man took him to a friendly Scotchman, who knew 
< ..I Morris, and he advised the lad to return to 
his work. The little fellow rallied once more, and 
returning to his patron, devoted his days to the 
duties of his apprenticeship, and in order to com 
ids education attended night school. lie had 
laid his plans with wisdom far beyond Ins years. 
determining to become a master mechanic, and un- 
able to succeed b\ easier methods he concluded to 
bind himself out as a four years' apprentice. At 
that time he was the only "bound boy "in the 
oitj of Pittsburgh, but in that way he learned all 
the various parts of his trade, receiving fro. 
to $8 per week during the latter part of his ap 
prenticeship. At the end of four years he had 
saved $300 from his wages, and was. moreover, an 
expert workman, a master of his vocation. lust 
as he stood on the threshold of success at last, 
he fell sick with typhoid fever, and the $300, so 
hardly earned and carefully saved, was swept away 
by the expenses incurred in his illness. But 
health returned, and with the old heroic spirit of 
perseverance the young man in 1872 began busi 
ness at Washington. Washington Co., Penn. From 
that date Fortune, who had so persistently frowned 
upon the struggling youth, began to shower upon 
him her richest smiles, seeming at last to realize 
that here was a spirit deserving of sympathy and 
encouragement. "It never rains but it pours," 
and no sooner was his financial success assured 
than other dreams became a reality. Love crowned 
the young man's life, and in 1873 he was married 
to Flora E . daughter of the Rev. J. S. Baldwin, 
of Amity. Atuwell township, this county, whose 
father is yet living in Iowa, aged over ninetv years. 
Mrs. Milne is a sister of W. C. Baldwin, of Wash- 
ington. Penn. Three children have been born to 
the union of William L. and Flora E. Milne, viz. : 
Gertrude, Annie Elizabeth Scott and Florena May, 
all of whom are residing at the parental home. 
Mr. Milne has a beautiful home on North avenue 
and Beau street, and the dwelling is adorned by a 
handsome stucco ceiling of his own making. In 
1882 he visited the " old country." and again in 
1891, on which occasion he took his family with 
him, and made a visit to his father, who is yet liv- 
ing in Scotland, now in his seventy-sixth year. In 
politics Mr. Milne is a Repnblican, and he is a 
member of the East Washington council. In re- 
ligious faith he is a member of the Methodist 
Protestant Church; socially he is a member of the 
Royal Arcanum. Among the worthy and notable 



12 



WASHINGTON COVNTJ . 



citizens of Washington, none have better desi 
success than has the subject of tins Bketch, as no 
one will question who knows the history of his 
early struggles. 



IfAMES M M< Bl RNEY, a rising young attor 
^ I ney of Washington, Well versed in civil law 

f J which is his s] ial practice, is B native of 

the borough, born March 7, 1858. His 
great grandfather, •lames McBurney, married 
Martha McGoffin, and they had six children, 
viz.: Mary (Mrs. John McAuley), Alexander, Jo 
seph, lames. Martha (Mrs James Matthews) and 
Jane (Mrs. John Gillespie). Of these, James, who 
was a native of Washington county, married and 
had children, as follows: Fbeuezer. James. Joseph, 
Eliza (Mrs. Hawkins), Martha (Mrs. Watsoo), 
Sarah (Mrs. Thompson, of Mercer county), and 
Catherine (Mrs. (ianlt. also of Mercer county i. all 
dead except Mrs. Thompson and Mrs. Gault. 
Their father was an officer in the Pennsylvania 
Militia, and died many years ago on his farm in 
South Strabane towuship, now owned by the 
Zediker family. 

Ebenezer McBurney was born in 1814, in Mer 
cer county, and was educated in the subscription 
schools of the locality of his birth. He learned 
and worked at the trade of carpenter in Washing 
ton, where he put up many buildings; later in life 
he, was employed in moving buildings, at which he 
was considered, in his day, quite an expert. Some 
years before his death, which occurred September 
12, 18S'), when he was seventy-five vears of age, 
he gave up working at his trade. He was a kind- 
hearted, generous man too confiding, over liberal 
with his means, and, through giving bailment for 
others, lost a large part of his hard-earned estate. 
He was a Democrat until the breaking out of the 
Civil war, when he went over to the Kepulican 
party. He was too old to go to the war. mon 
had broken his leg by falling off a barn, but he 
served as provost-marshal for his district: was also 
private detective for the county, under Ralph Mc 
Connell and J. F. Taylor, district attorneys. Berv 
ing as such six years. At one time he was a 
member of the old Seceder Church, but having 
joined the I. 0. O. F.. he was dismissed from the 
church. He married Mary, daughter of Thomas 
Maxwell, who came from Wheeling, W. Ya., to 
Washington where he (Maxwell) worked at his 
trade, that of hatter. Eleven children were born 
to this union: Helen, wife of Joseph Shaw, in 
Houstonville, Chartiers township; Samuel F., on a 
stock farm in Texas; John F.. on the old homestead 
in South Strabane township; Alexander F.. a dentist 

in Canonsburg, this county; Ja s M. , our subject; 

M .. a farmer in Belmont county, Ohio; 
Kate M., wife of George M. Haldeman, of Wash 



i gton; two daughters, Mary and Margaret, who 
died at the age of sixteen and twenty one respect 
ively; and two that died in infancy. The par 
ents are both deceased, the mother having passed 
away six months before the father. 

James M. McBurney received his primary edu 
cation at the schools of the neighborhood, and then 
1 1 875) entered the preparatory department of Wash 
ington and Jefferson College, graduating in 1 V >1 

in the classical i rse. After leaving college he 

taught one year as principal, in McKeesporl 
Academy, being associated with Rev. Robert M 
Rus6ell, who now has charge of a F. 1'. Church 
in Pittsburgh, East End. Returning to Washing- 
ton, Mr. McBurae] commenced the study of law 
with Hon. H. J. Vankirk, finishing under John W. 
Donnan, and was admitted to the bar of Washing 
ton county, April '_'7, IMSo, since when he has 
been in the continuous practice of his profession in 
the borough. In 1889 Mr. McBurney was united 
in marriage with Miss Annie S., daughter of J. B. 
Reekers, of Washington, and one child, Louise l; . 
has come to cheer their home. Our subject has 
been a member of the F. P. Church since 1876, is 
a deacon in the same, and a teacher in the Sabbath 
school. He is a Republican, but does not allow 
politics to interfere with his business, which com- 
mands all his time, and receives his diligent 
attention. 




(ILLIAM MARTIN, president of the 
First National Bank of Canonsburg, is 

the only living representative of his 
— ' branch of the Martin family in Washing- 
ton county ; he is a native of the same. 
born December 1*, 1821, on a farm in North Stra 
lane township He is a son of Samuel and Mary 
(McNary) Martin, the former of whom was a son 
of James Martin, a native of Scotland, who immi- 
grated to this country at a very early period, set 
fling in York county, Penn, : the latter a daughter 
of David McNary, of Cross Creek township. Wash 
ington county, same State. 

Samuel Martin, great-grandfather of our sub 
ject, emigrated from Scotland with his son James, 
and was the first of the famih to come to York 
county, where he followed fanning and died. He 

had one daughter, and three sons — Andrew. Peter 

and James- nf whom Peter and James came to 
Washington county in 1804. James had married 
Margaret McNary, in York county, and the chil- 
dren born to them there were Samuel, Esther 
(Mrs. Joseph McNary), Isabella (Mrs. John (' 
Banna), Margaret (Mrs. David Templeton), all 
now deceased. The father of this family was born 
in 1763 and died in 1853, aged ninety years, the 
mother passing away when the subject of this 
sketch was a little i ., |J 



WASHINGTON cor STY. 



13 



Samuel Martin, father of William, was burn in 
1790, in York county, Penn., and received his 
education at the subscription schools of Ins locality 
daring a few weeks in winter time, the remainder 
of the year being devoted to learning the practical 
lessons of agricultural pursuits. On the death of 
his father he came into possession of the homestead 
in North Strabane township, Washington county, 
and il may be here stated that the land was origi- 
nally patented by the Government to one Janus 
McCready, from whom it was afterward purchased 
by the Martin family. : ' was found on thi 
homestead farm in 1887, and nine wells have been 
sunk ou it. All were producers; two when the oil 
gave put were sunk deeper and made gas wells; 
these were piped to Pittsburgh bj Jones & 
Laughlin, and are still producers. After his mai 
riage with Mary McNary, in 1812, Samuel Martin 
made a final settlement on the old farm in North 
Strabane township, carrying on general farming 
till the time of his retirement to Canonshurg. 
where he died in 1878, aged eighty-eight years. 
His wife, a native of Washington county, I'enn., 
died one year later, at the age of eighty-nine years, 
They were active members of the Cliartiers United 
Presbyterian Church. Their family consisted of 
t. ii children: Esther (now the widow of B. M. 
Crouch, of Mansfield. Ohio), Margaret (deceased 
wife of Judge McCarroll, of Washington county. 
Penn), Sarah (widow of Robert Rowen, residing 
near Venice, Hanover township. Washington Co., 
Penn.), James (who removed many years ago to 
the vicinity of Mansfield. Ohio), John and David 
(who died when small children), William (subject), 
Isabelle (Mrs. Ross Taggart, of Beaver county, 
Penn.), Isaac (a farmer near Indianola Iowa) and 

Eliza Jane (residing at the old home in tl I 

North Strabane township, this county) 

William Martin, the subject proper of thi< 
memoir, waB reared on the farm where he was 
born, and received his rudimentary education at 
the primitive subscription schools of the neighbor- 
hood, afterward attending Jefferson College, Can- 
onsburg, several years, and then returned to the 
farm which he has since conducted with well- 
earned success. He taught school one term in the 
county. On April 24. 1850, Mr. Martin married 
Mary A. Houston, of Lowellville, Ohio, daughter 
of Hon. David Houston, who for several years 
served as State senator on the Democratic ticket. 
Mr. and Mrs. Martin have two children: David 
Houston, who graduated from Wilmington College, 
and is now practicing law in Pittsburgh, and Samuel 
Albert, a Presbyterian minister, now professor of 
theology at Lincoln University, in Chester county, 
Penn. In 1873 Mr. Martin moved into the borough 
of Canonsburg to educate his children, and has 
since made his home here, in the West Ward. He 
and his wife are members of the United Presby- 



terian Church, in which he has been an elder forty 
vears. Politically he has been an influential 
Republican since the organization of the party, 
but is no partisan. He has served as school di 
rector for some time. Mr Mart in is will pros, 
for his years, and is of an active, social and hos 
pitable disposition. 



QEORGE SCOTT HART was born in the City 
of Pittsburgh, Penn.. on the 29th of July, 
lS'Jt. Hewa8the son of John and Susatiali 
(Han) Hart, both of whom were descended 
from Scotch-Irish ancestry, When the sub 
j.i-t of this notice was but four years old, the family 
removed to Burgettstown, Washington Co., Penn., 
aud four years later settled at Washington, Penn. 
In the latter town George grew to manhood, ami 
in it spent the remainder of his life. He received 
his primary education in the private schools then 
in existence, and in 1888 be entered the Washing 
ron College, in the same town, as a student, from 
which institution he wa> graduated in the class of 
ISI'2, when he had scarcely entered his nineteenth 
year. Several of his classmates rose to places of 
high distinction. Among them were Caleb Bald 
win. who became Chief Justice of the Supreme 
Court of Iowa; J. Kennedy lining, afterwards 

President Judge of the Fourteenth Judicial Dis- 
trict of Pennsylvania; Rev. Franklin Moore, an 
eminent as well as eloquent minister of the Metb 
odist Episcopal Church. 

After leaving college the subject of this no 
was engaged in teaching for two years, one as a 
private tutor in Accomac county. Va.. and one in 
the public school at Prosperity, in Washington conn 
ty, Penn. Afterward he entered the office of John 
L. Gow, Esq., a prominent lawyer of Washington, 
Penn., as a law student, and in August, 1846, after 
due examination, he was admitted as a member of 
the Bar of Washington county. The same year be 
was appointed Deputy Attorney General, to fill a 
vacancy. When that ollice afterward became 
elective, he was nominated for the place by the 
Democratic Convention, and at the ensuing elec- 
tion obtained a majority of the votes cast, and was 
commissioned for the full term of three years. 
During his term of office several very important 
criminal trials took place, in all of which it was 
demonstrated that he was an able and fearless 
prosecutor. 

In May, 1S53. he acquired an interest in the 
Washington Examiner, a weekly newspaper, and 
for three years he was its principal editor. Tiring 
of journalism, he disposed of his interest in the 
newspaper in 1856, after the close of the Presi- 
dential campaign, and thenceforward until his fatal 
illness his time and energies were devoted to his 
chosen profession. In 1876, without opposition, 



14 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



he was Dominated for the office of President Judge 

• >f the Twi'iii Judicial District of Peifb 

sylvania, by the Democratic Convention, and the 
mention's action was ratified by the voters of 
Districi al the general' election held in Nfovem 
ber of fchal year He was duly commissioned, and 
served for a term of ten years from the first Mon 
day < > f January, 1877. Judge Hurl also served, 
previous to his elevatiou to the Bench, as a member 
of the School Board of Washington for some 
twelve years, more than ten of which he act i 
Secretary. 

After the death of his father, in 1859, Mr. Hart 
assumed the headship of the family, oaring, and 
abundantly providing, for his mother daring her 
declining years. By his unselfish exertions and 
personal sacrifices, the old home was saved for his 
brothers and sisters, and they remained together 
until circumstances brought aboul changes in the 
family circle. He was the family counsellor, men 
tor and friend, and his chief aim through life was 
to make them happy. 

Such is a brief sketch of the life of a good man. 
He died at his home, near Washington, on the 1 5tb 
of Slay, 1888, surrounded by grief- stricken rela- 
tives ami several of his sorrowful neighbors. Two 
>\;\y* after his body was laid away by the side of 
kindred dust in the Washington Cemetery, to 
await the resurrection of the just. 



THOMAS MoKENNAN, M. D., a well-known 
prominent and successful physician of Wash- 
ington county, was born May 21, 1825. in 
the house where he at present resides in the 
borough of Washington. 
In 1800 the first of the family came to Wash- 
ington county in the person of Col. William Mc 
Keunan. a merchant, who was born in 1758 at 
New Castle, Del., a son of Rev. William Mc- 
Kennan. a prominent Presbyterian minister, who 
had a church for fifty years in Wilmington. Del. ; 
he came to America about the year 1730, and died 
in Delaware, where he had settled. Col. McKennan 
at a very early date came from Delaware to West 
Virginia, to what is now Wellaburg, later moving 
to Washington. He was present at the battle of 
Brand} wine, in 1777, where he received a wound, 
from the effects of which he died, and he spent 
the memorable winter at Valley Forge. He mar 
ried Elizabeth, a daughter of John Thompson, a 
prominent citizen of Brandywine Hundred, in 
Delaware, and a niece of Thomas McKean, a mem 
ber of (lie first Congress from Delaware, who later 
came to Pennsylvania, of which State he became 
governor; he was one of the Signers of the ''Dec- 
laration of Independence." Col. William Mc- 
Kennan and his family moved to Charlestowo, Va. 
W. Va ), from there to West Middletowo, 



this county, and finally, in 1801, to the borough of 
Washington, where he died in January, 1810, his 
widow in 1839, at the age of seventy-eight years. 
The children born to them were si-veu in number, 
a- follows: William, John, Thomas McR. T., 
David. Ann. Rev. James W. and one that died in 
infancy, unamed. 

Hon. Thomas McK. T. McKennan, the third son 
of Col. William McKennan. was born in 1794, in 
Newcastle county. Del., and received Ids primary 
education in the private schools at Washington 
When sixteen years old he graduated from Wash 
ington College, in the second ebts^. there being 
three members in that class. Immediately there 
after he began the study of law under Parker 
Campbell, an attorney of Washington borough, 
and November 7, 1^1 t, at tin: age of twenty one, 
was admitted to the bar. and he at once commenced 
to build up his remarkable career. The year after 
his ai i he succeeded Waller Forward as 

deputy attorney-general of the county, serving in 
that capacity until 1817; and his rise at, the bar 
was rapid and honorable, the front in his profea 
sion being maintained throughout his life. The 
degree , of LL, D. was conferred on him by Jeffer 
sou College. In 1§31 Mr. McKennan becan 

f the House of Representatives of the 
Doited States, remaining in Congress four terms, 
and declining re-election on account of his urgent 
professional work at home. In 1842, however, a 
vacancy occurring in the House through the demise 
of Joseph Lawrence, Mr. McKennan yielded to the 
solicitations of his party, and the public demand, 
and served the balance of the term. He was 
chairman of the committee of the whole for two 
mouths, in the first session of that year, and 
during his incumbency rendered powerful aid to 
the more important industries of the country. In 
1M" lie was chosen a Presidential elector, and in 
1848 he was made president of the Pennsylvania 
Electoral College. In 1850 he was called by Presi- 
dent Fillmore to the position of Secretary of the 
Interior; but for various reasons he had no liking 
for the office, and a few weeks after his appoint 
meiit he resigned and returned to his more genial 
home. Soon after this he became president of the 

Hempfield Railroad Company, and while attending 
to its affairs died July 9, 1852, at Reading, Penn. 
Mr McKennan had entered Washington Col- 
lege at a very earlv age. and passed through the 
entire curriculum. In February, 1813, he was 
appointed tutor of ancient languages, in which 
capacity he served eighteen months; in April. 1818, 
he w. a member of the college corporation, 

continuing as such up to the day of his death, a 
period of thirty-four years. For several years be 
held the position of adjunct professorof langu. 

The life of Mr. McKennan was oi f the purest 

probity, and among the gala.w of distinguished 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



87 



him the eyes of many in different places. Among 
other invitations received by him was a call to the 
presidency of Centre College, at Danville, Ky., and 
the trustees of Dickinson College also desired him 
to till a similar position. As pastor of I he church 
in Washington he remained until 1822, when lie 
resigned this charge, having accepted the presi- 
dency of Jefferson College, at Canonsbur^' 

At this period an incident occurred — an incident, 
perhaps, unprecedented in college history. It was 
the night before the college commencement day, 
and at a late hour, that the trustees of Jefferson 
College elected Dr. Brown to till the presidential 
chair which had shortly before become vacant. 
For various reasons it was necessary that the pies 
ident-elect should immediately enter upon the 
duties of his otlice. So, early the next morning, 
while he was yet in lied, a committee waited upon 
loin, and, having urged him to accept the position, 
managed to have him brought, before breakfast, to 
Canonsburg, where he took the oath of office, and 
at U o'clock presided over the commencement ex 
eivises, conferred the degrees upon the graduates, 
and then delivered his Baccalaureate address. 
Thus was the last Wednesday of September. 1822, 
a memorable day in Cauousburg. marking, as it 
does, the crisis and dawn of the true glory of Jef 
ferson College. To the students and friends of this 
(■"liege the event was one of great joy, and was 
h.olod as an omen of prosperity. It was an event 
from which untold blessings and benefits have de- 
scended, not only upon the college and its hun- 
dreds of students, but ujwn thousands of the hu- 
man race to whom through them Dr. Brown be- 
came, under God, by his pre eminent capacities for 
government and instruction, ami by his piety and 
prayers, a benefactor of the highest ordei to which 
humanity can attain. 

Under the administration of Dr. Brown, a 
period of twenty three years, the college advanced 
rapidly in its glorious career. Never wa- there, 
perhaps, a more popular or a more successful 
president. He was peculiarly gifted with quali- 
ties of head and heart that secured the respect and 
affection of the students, both while under his 
care and in after life. To him the pious students 
were warmly attached, and by the wildest- and 
most reckless he was respected and venerated. In 
him special eccentricities and the reaction of mirth 
and depression were joined with a vigorous intel- 
lect, clear judgment, quick discernment, good 
sense, ardent piety and untiring energy. In him 
opposites blended most remarkably. His nature, 
indeed, was marked by all those characteristics 
which make a great leader and commander. Being 
of a nervous temperament, and quick in thought 
aud action, his impetuosity sometimes led him 
into mistakes, but he always managed to get every- 
thing right again without losiug the respect of 



others or his own authority. He certainly was the 
most remarkable man, in his day, for the posses- 
sion of qualities apparently the most compatible, 
but strangely and happily balancing each other. 
Though an eccentric man, never was eccentricity 
more completely governed by good sense and sound 
judgment. His very personal and mental pecul 
iarities contributed greatly to his usefulness, and 
the success of the college over which he so long 
and efficiently presided. While at times he was 
impulsive and variable in temper, he never lost his 
dignityj and the reigns of government never hung 
loosely in his hands. But whatever were his 
peculiarities and eccentricities, he was a man of 
God. whose personal piety was of the highest 
order. The religion of Christ was his meat ami 
drink, in which lie found all his springs of hope 
and power, light and rest. No matter from what 
book he was giving instruction, the students felt, 
that they were sitting under a religious teacher. 
As evidence of this, of the 770 students who were 
graduated under him, Hod became ministers of the 
Gospel. Frequently, during his presidency, there 
were great revivals of religion, which were attrib 
uted, under God, to his faithful, earnest preach- 
ing, aud to his conversations and prayers with the 
students in their rooms. He was pre eminently a 
man of prayer. Often would the student- hear 
him in the arbor of his garden, in the . n miner 
nights, when he thought all human ears we. 
closed, praying for hours, beginning his entreaties 
with sighs and tears, and ending his devotions 
with the song of triumph. The distinguishing 
trait in his Christian life was that it was a life of 
communion with (io, I. Of him it mi^'ht truly be 
said, "He prayed without ceasing." To the mem 
bers of the family his wife would ofteu say 
"Mr. Brown spent the whole night in prayer." 
This was the secret' of the wonderful outpouring of 
God's Spirit again and again upon the college. 
People are astonished at the multitudes of minis 
ters and missionaries who have gone forth from 
Jefferson College. Here is the secret. There was 
a wrestling Jacob in the presidential chair who 
said to the God of Israel, "I will not let Thee go, 
except Thou bless me." The fact that he was a 
man who was constantly praying held the students 
in awe, and threw around him a sacred atuios 
phere, and to his prayers is to be attributed much 
of his usefulness when alive, aud his permanent 
influence when dead. 

Another prominent feature in the character of 
Dr. Browu was his unwavering and profound con- 
viction of the truths of the Bible. So confident 
was he that the Bible would take care of itself 
that he feared not the newest and most popular 
forms of infidelity, nor had he any apprehensions 
lest the camp of Israel would be disturbed by the 
discovery of ancient manuscripts and historical 






88 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



records. With hiun for their teacher, the students, 
no matter what had been their early training, 
learned to respect the Gospel without knowing 
how opposition was disarmed and infidelitysilenced. 
In the history of the Jefferson College class of 
1830, written thirty years after the members were 
graduated, Rev. Dr. J. J. Marks, the author, thus 
refers to their president, Dr. Brown: 

In him we all recognized the Christian, but still a mail 
of like passions with ourselves; honest, impulsive and 
variable in temper, all the hues of his character, and the 
many sides of hi- mind were fully displayed. We felt 
thai here was a man, who, though far in advance of us, 
was ready to help us, for our infirmities were his, and 
we saw the scars of yet unhealed wounds of battle, aud 
we learned in a thousand ways that he never forgot the 
weaknesses of youth, nor the conflicts of manhood. 

In manner he was eminently courtly and urbane, with 
thai ease and tact which i- only gained by associating 
with the world, am] conversing with refined aud culti- 
vated minds. He walked among men after the manner 
of Socrates, talking with all. learning from all, showing 
sympathy with the poorest, listening with the rapt inter- 
est of a boy to the stories of their adventures aud jour- 
neys, lie had an epicurean pleasure in rare characters, 
for they amused him and gratified his taste for the hu- 
morous and the graphic. His own conversational talent 
wasol the highest order, humorous, sprightly ami descrip- 
tive, thus making his words instructive and fascinating. 
In his conversation he threw open the treasure- of years, 
gathered from reading, observation and converse with 
the great and good. I have beard many talkers, but none 
that excelled l>r. Brown, none that equaled him in depth 
of tone and moral value of conversation. His face was a 
wonderful spectacle and a deep study. We have watched 
him in the class room and in the chapel for hours with 
unwearied interest, for the whole world seemed to be in 
his face. We not only listened to him. but we studied 
him. We had reason to be grateful for the nice adjust- 
ment of his religious character and teachings. Deeply 
anxious for our spiritual welfare, he led us to the Savior 
whom lie loved. Surely the students who received from 
him the religious impressions which ripened into peni- 
tenceand faith, must look back to those year- with an 
interest which can m ver lade. The remembrance of hi- 
wisdom and integrity is among the -most precious heri 
lages of the soul. 

For several years after lie moved to Canonsburg 
lie preached alternate Sabbaths with Dr. McMillan 
in the Chartiers Church, of which the latter min- 
ister was the pastor, but in 18S0 a congregation 
was organized in the town in connection with the 
college, which enjoyed his pastoral and pulpit 
labors until the year 1845 when, on account of 
feeble health, he resigned the presidency of Jeffer- 
son College". 

Of the power and influence of Dr. Brown many 
pages might be written, but want of space limits 
us in writing this sketch While he was president 
of Jefferson College, an additional building was 
erected, and through his efforts most of the neces- 
sary funds for this purpose were raised. In re- 
spect to his whole career as president of Jefferson 
College, it can be truly said that it was an auspi- 
cious day for that institution when he was chosen 
to stand at its head. The people of Washington 



were not insensible to the loss they had sustained 
by the removal of Dr. Brown to Canonsburg. Ac- 
cordingly, about six years after he had left Wash- 
ington, he received a united call from the congre- 
gation and college to return to his former position 
there as pastor and president. But though greatly 
attached to the church which he had served for sev- 
enteen years, and though the college which had 
sprung into existence under his hand made a 
strong appeal to his sympathies, he finally decided 
to remain at Canonsburg, much to the gratifica- 
tion of the people of that place, and all the friends 
of Jefforson College. For a number of years 
after his retirement from the college and church 
at Canonsburg, he embraced every favorable op 
portuuity of jiroaching the Gospel to his fellow- 
men, in which work he took great delight. Not 
withstanding hi- growing infirmities he continued 
to preach until near the close of his life. On Jul\ 
29. 1853, he died at the age of seventy -seven 
years. The funeral services were held at Canons 
burg, but the body was laid to rest beside his 
loved ones in Washington. In both towns there 
was every demonstration of respect aud sorrow. 
Stores were closed and many a face was wet with 
tear.- In person Dr. Brown was tall and slender, 
with a thin and narrow face which usually bore a 
bright and animated expression. His movements 
were rapid, and his manner of walking, and the 
way he handled his cane would attract the atten- 
tion of a stranger. His mind was of a high order, 
and was especially adapted to abstract metaphysical 
inquiries. He had a keen sense of the ludicrous, 
and his sayings at times were full of wit. His 
heart was generous and open, and with a spirit of 
bene\olencr his delight was in making others 
happy, and in giving liberally of his means to 
the poor and needy. In social circles he was 
the master spirit, being gifted with tine conversa 
tional power- and having in store a large fund of 
knowledge As a minister he was one of the most 
effective preachers in the country. Asa Christian 
he was a man of liberal views and feelings. Though 
a Presbyterian in principle and practice, his Chris- 
tian sympathies were as wide as the world. His 
moral courage was great, possessing as he did a 
spirit which would not have faltered at the sight 
of Nebuchadnezzar's furnace, and yet his faith in 
religion was often like that of a little child. As a 
scholar he ranked among the first, and was honored 
with the degrees of Doctor of Divinity and Doctor 
of Laws. 

Before closing, a few words must l>e added re 
garding his domestic relations; he was twice mar 
ried — first in 1804 to Miss Mary Blaine, of Cum 
berland county. Penn., who died in 1818, leaving 
two children: one of them was the Rev. Dr. Alex- 
ander Blaine Brown, who two years after his 
father's resignation succeeded him as president of 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



89 



Jefferson College. The other was Elizabeth, the 
estimable and talented wife of Rev. D. H. Riddle, 
D. D. , who also became president of the same in- 
stitution. In 182-") Dr. Brown was married to 
Mary W. Ferguson, widow of Rev. Mr. Backus 
Wilbur. She died in 1838, leaving one daugh 
tar, Susan Mary, the wife of Mr. Henry M. 
Alexander, a prominent lawyer in New York 
City, one of the well-known Princeton family of 
Alexanders, and son of the first professor in the 
Princeton Theological Seminary. This daughter 
inherits her father's talents and many excellent 
traits. She is an earnest worker in the church, de- 
votes much time in laboring for the good of others, 
an I gives freely of her means to charitable objects. 



»f""\ EY ALEXANDER BLAINE BROWN, 

Lvy D. D This eminent Presbyterian minister 

V and educator is, alike by birthright ami 

Is —* character, entitled to a prominent place in 

v this volume. 

He was the only son of Rev. Matthew Brown, 
D. I)., LL. D., and was born in Washington, Penn., 
Angust 1, 1808. His mother's maiden name was 
Mary Blaine, daughter of Alexander Blaine, of 
Cumberland county, Penn., who was commissar} 
general of Pennsylvania in the time of the Revolu- 
tion, and was distinguished for his self-sacrificing 
patriotism. In the son, Alexander B Brown, were 
blended the mental talents and mental vigor of his 
father, and the mild, gentle disposition of his 
mother. In 1822 his father having been elected 
president of Jefferson College at Canonsburg, 
Penn., young Alexander became a student of that 
institution, from which he was graduated in 1825, 
at the age of seventeen years. While at college 
he represented the Pbilo Literary Society as their 
champion in orator)* at one of the annual contest-, 
Ha\ ing taught for some time in classical schools 
in Newark, Del., and Princeton, N. J., he entered, 
in 1828, the Western Theological Seminary at 
Allegheny, Penn., and was licensed to preach by 
the Presbytery of Ohio, October 5, 1831. After 
two years of ministerial work in Virginia, where 
he declined several offers to settle as a pastor, he 
returned to his native State in 1833, and took 
charge of the Birmingham Church, now known as 
the First Presbyterian Church of Pittsburgh, 
South Side. Here he was successful in securing 
a commodious house of worship. A year later he 
became pastor of the Presbyterian Church of Niles, 
Mich., when he soon was recognized throughout 
the State as one who had an education and mind 
of a high order. In May, 1839, he was called to 
the Presbyterian Church of Portsmouth, Ohio, 
where he labored with great success until April, 
1841, when, having accepted a professorship in 
Jefferson College, he came to Canousburg. At 



the same time he took charge of the congregation 
of Centre Church, a few miles east of the town. 
To this congregation he ministered until 1845, 
when he was called to the pastorate of Chartiers 
Church, which is about one mile south of Canons 
burg. 

Rev. Dr. Robert J. Breckinridge, who had suc- 
ceeded Dr. Matthew Brown as president, at the end 
of two years resigned his office. It became a 
grave (juestion with the trustees as to who should 
be chosen to fill the place of that brilliant man. 
Several prominent names were suggested, but the 
trustees, appreciating the talents and worth of their 
modest professor, Alexander B. Brown, unanimous- 
ly elected him president of the college. When 
informed of his election, he was greatly surprised, 
and most earnestly remonstrated against it, as he 
entirely distrusted his own qualifications. But 
liis love for the institution would not permit him 
to decline the trust so strongly pressed upon him, 
and he accepted the position. It was the desire 
of the trustees that he should be inaugurated the 
same evening while they were present, which gave 
him but an hour or two to prepare for the occasion. 
To a friend he said that when he was being es- 
corted to the college, he felt like one going to the 
gallows rather than to a scene of triumph. The 
oath of office having been administered, he made 
an address which lor eloquence and pathos was 
unequaled, during which there was scarcely a dry 
eye in the audience. 

Many of the friends of Dr. A. B. Brown, know- 
ing the sensitive delicacy of his disposition, and 
his habit of shrinking from publicity, feared that 
his fine qualifications as a professor would fall 
short of the more heroic and rugged demands of 
the presidency. But their mistake was most hap 
pily demonstrated in the actual development under 
pressure of duty, which soon showed him to be a 
model governor, as well as an instructor. His 
power over the students was wonderful. His ruin 
gled suavity and firmness, together with their un- 
bounded confidence in him, as one who sought only 
their highest good, disposed them to heed his 
wishes; and if at any time he suddenly appeared 
among them in the midst of their youthful noise 
and riot, it was like the voice of Neptune amid 
the raging waves. His administration was a most 
remarkable one. during which the prosperity of the 
college continued to rapidly increase. The nine 
years of his presidency were peculiarly marked 
with peaceful relations in the college, and with its 
advancing reputation and usefulness. Four hun- 
dred and fifty-three diplomas bear his presidential 
signature, making an annual average of fifty grad 
uates. At the time of his resignation the whole 
number of students was 230. He was also success- 
ful in raising an endowment fund of $(50, 000, which, 
in those days, before millionaires were known, was 



90 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



of itself a herculean task. His zeal in the cause 
of education caused him to be generous to a fault. 
When from year to year he witnessed the embar- 
rassed financial condition of the college, he de 
clined to draw his own salary in order that the 
other members of the faculty should be promptly 
paid, and in this way he freely gave $11,000 to 
the institution. His fine reputation, like that of 
his venerated father, has gone forth with the sons 
of Jefferson College into every part of our land, 
and into distant nations across the seas. It will 
ev.-r widen, ;is the alumni of Washington and Jef- 
ferson College, in the coming generations, shall 
prove themselves worthy of the heritage of glory 
descended through both the old institutions into 
their consolidation and unity of achievement 

Hut honorable as was the career of Dr. A. B. 
Brown, as an educator, he ever felt himself conse 
crated to the Gospel ministry, and in this service 
lie found his chief joy. And he was a model min 
ister in the judgment alike of his brethren and the 
people. Referring to him in an address before an 
Alumni Association in Pittsburgh, Rev. Dr. D. A. 
Cunningham said: '"He who holds the stars in 
Hi~ right hand, held no brighter one than Rev. A. 
15. Brown, D. D. We sat under his teaching with 
^reat delight, and were more than charmed with 
his eloquence in the pulpit. The flash of his keen 
eye. the tremulous tones of that sweet voice, and 
the heavenly light which beamed from his collide 
nance as he led us to the Cross of ( 'hrist, can never 
be forgotten." Of him. the Hon. Thomas K. Ew 
ing, R prominent judge in Pittsburgh, said: "He 
was the finest teacher and the most eloquent min- 
ister I ever knew " Unambitious of prominence. 
even to a fault, and habitually refusing audience 
to the approaches of most inviting pastorates 
seeking his services, he ever preferred the work of 
the Gospel without the stress of competition for 
human praise. The common people heard him 
gladly, while the nao-t intelligent and fastidious 
received his messages with delight. His sermons 
were a happy combination of evangelistic truth, 
faultless taste, affectionate tenderness, and persua 
sive — often thrilling — eloquence His public lect- 
ures and addresses were also widely sought atnl 
highly appreciated It was a treat to listen to his 
recitation-- of poetry, especially of his favorite 
Cowper, and his quotations from the grander por 
tious of inspiration. 

Soon after Dr. Brown was inaugurated presi- 
dent of the college, it was necessary for him to 
sever his relations with the Chartiers Church, in 
order that he mioht become pastor of the Canons- 
burg congregation which worshiped with the stu- 
dents in the chapel. This position he retained, to 
the great joy of the congregation, until he resigned 
the presidency. In 1850 the trustees reluctantly 
yielded to his oft repeated request to be relieved 



from the duties which were too arduous for his de- 
clining health, and accepted his resignation. He 
then retired to his country residence, "Mount 
Blaine," and being within the bounds of Centre 
Church, his former charge, he was induced to be 
come its pastor. This relationship he held until 
the close of 1802, when failing health forced him 
to retire from active labors. Though afflicted with 
a painful disease, he patiently lx>re his sufferings 
until the eighth day of September, 1863, when God 
took him to the land of health. He was buried in 
the Centre Church graveyard, where a grateful 
and appreciative people erected a handsome rnon 
umeiit to his memory His death at the age of 
fifty five left n void deeply felt and uot 'easily 
filled Religion and learning alike will long cher 
ish his memory, and blend their tears over his grave. 
Only a little space is yet claimed for the domes 
tic and social relations of this "beloved disciple." 
He was married December 3, 1833, to Miss Eliza 
beth Finley Nevin, daughter of Mr. John Neviu, 
of Cumberland county, Penn., and sister of Rev. 
Dr. John W. Nevin, at one time the distinguished 
and scholarly professor of the Allegheny Theolog- 
ical Seminary, and afterward the successful presi- 
dent of Franklin and Marshall College at Lancas- 
ter, Penn. This estimable lady was well qualified 
to assume the high and responsible duties which 
her husband's position placed upon her. and her 
public services were crowned with blessings and 
honor, and by her pure and earnest life, her sweet 
and noble character, her unselfish nature, kind 
words and charitable deeds she will longbe reniem 
bered as a bright example, worthy of imitation. 
Now. in the thirtieth year of her widowhood, she 
still lingers in venerable age to bless her children, 
while she ones witness of the matured experience 
of the Lord's faithfulness. Of the children, five 
Bons and one daughter are now living. Two of the 
sons, having chosen the profession of their grand- 
father and father, are now prominent Presbyterian 
ministers 

[In the above sketch, which \s from the pen of Rev. 
James I. Brownsou, D. I'.. I.I.. 1 '.. free use has been made 
of nil available material, especially of a memorial address 
by the late Rev. Aaron Williams, D. I)., an associate in 
the college faculty, ami an intimate friend of Dr. A. B. 
Brown. 

Rev. W. F. Bhown, D. D. . Canonsburg, Penn. 
In publishing a brief record of the life of Rev. Dr. 
W. F. Brown, we can furnish no better sketch than 
that written and read by Hon. John A. Mcllvaine, 
Judge of the Washington County Court, at a col- 
lege class reunion in 1890. 

Born under the shadow of Jefferson College, of which 
both his father and grandfather were popular and be- 
loved presidents, our classmate naturally began his clas- 
sical course within its walls. He was enrolled a Senior 
'• prep " in 1850, but at the end of his Freshman year he 
remained at home in order that his brother might enlist 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



91 



as a soldier. The next year, 1862, he entered our class as 
a Sophomore. Although descending from a long line of 
learned and pious ancestors, which drew toward him the 
reaped of the i lass even before his acquaintance whs 
fully made, his own innate qualities soon caused him to 
be very popular. While having reason to be proud of his 
parentage, he was extremely modest, and in his inter- 
course with hi- fellow students he never by word or deed 
referred to the honorable connection with the college 
which his birth gave him. From all public performances 
he shrank, only assuming a prominent position when in 
the Hue of duty. At college he showed a preference for 
the classics and was especially fond of Latin, which ac- 
counts for the high compliment passed upon his Latin 

exegesis when he was licensed to preach. Rev. Dr. 
George Marshall, who was theu chairman of the examlti 
in^r committei . pronounced it the besl that had been pre 
seuted in the Presbytery during the thirty years be had 
been a member, lint while studying the ancieul Ian 
gimges he spent much time with the goddess oi music, 

and the clear. [odious tones of his fine tenor voice were 

a lurcc of delight to us all. Possessing this natural gifl 
to ii high degree, after his graduation he frequently aided 
hi- rive brother- in giving vocal and instrumental con 
cciis. which were highly appreciated by all who heard 
them, and which were given for the benefit of churches 
and educational institution.-. OI the many patriotic Bong6 
he sang while at college there was one entitled " Wake 
Nicodemus," which he selected as the subject ol his com 
mencement oration. He was a member of the Philo So- 
ciety, but never joined a secret fraternity, although often 
importuned so to do. In this matter he religiously 
adhered to and followed the request of bis father, not 
w Ithstanding that at one time it left him the only student 
in the college who did not belong to a fraternity. 

Three years from the time he left college he graduated 
at the Allegheny Theological Seminary, and was licensed 
as a Presbyterian minister to preach the Gospel. For 
several months he supplied the Falrview Church, and 
ale the congregation then worshiping in the College 
Chapel. In 1870 the Canousburg congregation desired 
his whole time, and he became the successor of Rev. Dr. 
Jonathan Edwards, who was its pastor while he was pres- 
ident of the college. Three other calls were at the same 
time offered to Brown; but, being strongly urged by the 
congregation he accepted the call to the "College 
Church" of which both his grandfather and father had 
for many year- been pa-tors. Owing to the transfer of 
the college classes to Washington, the students' side of 
the chapel was left vacant, but in a short time the inn 
gregation so increased under hi- ministration that the hall 
on each Sabbath day was filled. While pastor of this 
Church he taughtin the Linnean Academy, ami was after- 
ward professor of Latin in Jefferson Academy for three 
year-. While preaching and teaching here he secured, 
through the alumni of Jefferson College, a donation of 
$2,1 of) for their former beloved Greek professor, Dr. "Will- 
iam Smith. In this labor of love he wrote and sent out 
some 1,700 letters. 

After six years of labor in Canousburg. he received a 
call to the Presbyterian Church in Charleston, W. Va., 
and also a call to the First Presbyterian Church of New- 
ark, Ohio. The latter he accepted, and. being duly In- 
stalled there, he preached for the period of two years, 
when, on account of throat, trouble, he resigned, and upon 
the advice of his physician he did not preach for one 
year. About the same time his wife's health demanded 
a change of climate, and for a number of years they spent 
their winters in the South, where he preached in some of 
the leading churches, his services always being in de- 
mand. For quite awhile, when in New Orleans, he sup- 
plied with great acceptance the First Presbyterian 
Church during the absence of their distinguished pastor, 



Rev. Dr. Palmer. In 1884, Rev. William Ewing, Ph. D., 
having resigned, our classmate was chosen principal of 
Jefferson Academy, at Cauonsburg, which position he 
ably filled for four years, when lie was compelled to 
abandon this work on account of the severe and pro- 
tracted illness of his wife. As a teacher he was thorough 
and faithful, which the high rank taken afterward by his 
pupils in colleges and seminaries fully attest. His gov- 
ernment in the academy was that of love, and by his gen- 
tlemanly and polished manners as well as by the quality 
of the work done, he won the respect and affection of his 
scholars. Under his administration the institution flour- 
ished, and he proved himself to be a most successful 
teacher. As a preacher, this brother is both able and 
eloquent His sermons evidence deep thought and orig- 
inality. He i- especially strong in his descriptive powere. 
He has a fine presence and a good voice, and never fails 
to hold the attention of hi- audience. A year ago, I8JS0, 
he received tl e degree of Doctor of Divinity from Frank 
lin and Marshall College, a1 Lancaster, Pent)., and also 
from tin I Diversity of Western Pennsylvania, in recog 
uition of his ability as a preacher and a teacher. Refer 
ring to this degree, a Pittsburgh paper says: "Upon no 
more worthy man has the highest honors ol these time- 
honored institution- been conferred." But while our 
classmate has become prominent, be has not been able to 
respond to the many calls to come up higher. Within 
the past few years he has had more than one invitation to 
prominent churches and wider fields of labor and in- 
fluence, but sickuess in his family prevented him from 
accepting these positions As intimated, Mrs. Brown has 
been a gr.at suffer, r for vear6,and in relieving her pains 
he has manifested a spirit similar to Wendell Phillips, 
who, when urged to accept the most tempting offers, re 
plied that neither wouej nor glory could induce him to 
deprive hi- suffering wife of whatever assistance and 
comfort he could bestow. If, as one of our brightest 
stars, Dr. Brown's light has been for a time partly bid 
from the world, i' has shone in his ministerial and edu- 
cational work at home, and has also brightened the dark 
rooms of sickness in many houses, and has cheered the 
sad heart of one whose deepest sorrow has been that her 
feeble health and severe pains have caused clouds to sur 
round tin brilliancy of her devoted husband. -His wife 
was Mis- Mary Houston, one of Canonsburg's brightest 
and. most attractive young ladies, who during her years of 
sickness has given sunshine and comfort to many by her 
deeds and words of charity and love. 

Daring the years 1890 and 1S91 Dr. and Mrs 
Brown made an extensive tour through Europe, 
chiefly for the benefit of the letter's health. 
While visiting the principal foreign countries and 
cities they spent much time in Italy, lingering for 
many months in Rome, which gave the Doctor an 
opportunity of studying the interesting and his- 
torical objects of the Eternal City. Shortly after 
returning home he was frequently called upon to 
speak of his travels in public, and soon his name 
and fame spread over the lecture field, he having 
added to his scholastic learning the polish and 
distingue of the Continental tourist. His lectnres 
are said to be highly literary, entertaining and 
instructive, aiid in this field he has won the repu- 
tation of being an original, magnetic and eloquent 
speaker. 

But, successful as he might be in the lecture 
field, in which his eloquence, grace and wit could 
be displayed to great advantage, he still clings to 



92 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



the work of preaching and teaching, the profes- 
sions he chose when he entered upon the active 
duties of life. He is, therefore, to be found 
every Sabbath iii the pulpit, and during the week 
he give-- instruction in Jefferson Academy, in 
which institution his services have again been 
called into requisition. 

Re\. Alexander Blaine Bkown, Jn. As in the 
case of his brother (whose ^ket cli is given above), 
Rev. A. B. Brown, Jr.. was horn amid the classic 
scenes of Jefferson College, at Canonsburg, Penn . 
at the time when his father whs the president of 
this renowned institution. In early life he inani 
fested a decided taste for literary pursuits, and 
having adopted one of tin' mottoes of Jefferson 
College, "Inter silvas Academi quoerevt vcrum" 
("Among tin' grovesof the Academy seek truth "i, 
he spent a number oi years at Jefferson Academy. 
Jefferson College having been removed from Can 
onsburg, he went to Lancaster. Penn., and entered 
the junior class of Franklin and Marshall Col 
lege, of which his uncle. Rev. John W. Neviu. 
D. D., LL. 1) . was for many years the honored 
and successful president Having completed his 
collegiate course at Lancaster, he was elect..! 
professor of Latin in Jefferson Academy, in which 
institution he taught for a year, when he entered 
the Western Theological Seminary, al Allegheny 
City. Penn., from which he was graduated in 
lsTs. The following year he was unanimously 
called to the pastorate of the Centre Presbyterian 
Church, five miles east of Canonsburg, a church 
of which his father had also been pastor, and to 
which he ministered during the latter part of his 
life, and in tin hounds of which he died. This 
call young Mr. Brown accepted, and December 1">. 
1879, he was ordained and installed tin- pastor of 
a people among whom he had grown up. and of 
a church which he had attended and with which 
he united in his earlier years. In this field he has 
labored faithfully for thirteen wars, during which 
time his ministry has been greatly blessed, and his 
services highly appreciated by a people by whom 
he has always been dearh beloved. As a preacher 
Rev. Mr. Brown is earnest, impressive, instructive 
and eloquent. His sermons give evidence that he 
is a man of decided talents and a diligent stu- 
dent, who always brings beaten oil into the sane 
tuary. His reading of the Scriptures and hymns 
has won for him the reputation of being one of 
the best readers in the Presbytery. As a pastor 
he is faith fill, devoted and sympathetic, whose 
bright, genial ways and pure, noble character 
cause him to be highly esteemed and great 1\ be- 
loved by all who know him. A few days since 
(March 13, 1893), he received a unanimous call to 
the pastorate of the Fairview Presbyterian Church, 
which is situated a few miles south of Centre. 
So great was the desire and so urgent the tequest 



of the Fairview people to have him become their 
pastor that he felt it his duty to transfer his labors 
to this neighboring lield. in which he has received 
a most cordial welcome. 

Bkown Bkotheks. In addition to the two 
eloquent ministers mentioned above, there were 
four other sons in the family of Rev. Dr. and 
Mis. A. B. Brown. While all of these sous 
enjoyed an enviable reputation, on accouut of 
their educational qualities and moral worth, they 

i possessed extraordinary musical talents which 
gave them great celebrity. Without making it a 
specialty, these six brothers excel led in music, each 
one being a tine singer, and also a skillful perform- 
er on some musical instrument. They appeared 
in public for the first time when they exerted 
themselves to raise funds to carry on the suit for 
the recovery of Jefferson College, which had been 
consolidated with Washington College. By this 
act Jefferson College was removed from Canons- 
burg to the town of Washington, which caused a 
litigation that lasted for several years. Those who 
had contributed funds to Jefferson College, feeling 
that the trustees had violated their trust in trans- 
ferring the College from its original locution, 
brought suit for the recovery of the institution. 
Suit having been entered, the case was tried in 
both the State and the United States Supreme 
Courts, aud this involved considerable expense. 
To help defray this the Brown Brothers, whose 
grandfather and father had contributed thousands 
of dollars, and devoted the greatei part of their 
lives to the institution, offered their services as 
musicians. The proposition received a hearty re- 
sponse, and many churches and halls were offered 
free to these brother-, who took rank at once as 
distinguished vocalists and instrumentalists. Thus 
b\ their musical entertainments they succeeded in 
liquidating almost the entire cost of the suit, a 
part of the amount having previously been raised 
b\ subscription. In this way they became known 
as the " Brown Brothers "' Up to t bat period, this 
was the lirst instance on record where the brothers 
of one family had given either a vocal or an instru- 
mental concert. Referring to them as "A Band 

! of Brothers." the Washington (Penn.) Advance 
said: " There are a few cases where the male and 
female members of one family appear as profes 
sional musicians, but we doubt very much if such 
an instance as this furnished by the Brown Broth 
ers is to be found in our own or other countries.'' 
Having, while iuvoking the aid of the muses in 

\ behalf of Jefferson College, acquiredthe reputation 
of being musicians of a high order, the Brown 
Brothers were frequently requested to give concerts 
for the benefit of churches. Sabbath schools, edu 
catioual institutions and various objects to which 
they generously devoted the proceeds of their en 
tertainments Frequently they appeared four or 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



93 



five times in one place, and on each occasion drew 
a large audience. The concerts of these brothers 
were characterized by a great variety of songs 
which were rendered with remarkably fine expres 
sion, clear and distinct articulation, intermingled 
in a most pleasing manner with many different 
kinds of instruments. From a Pittsburgh paper 
we give the following extract: "When either one 
or all of the brothers begin to sing, the audieuoe is 
subdued into the most tender mood by the ex- 
<[uisiU' rendering of their pathetic songs, or breaks 
out into the most rapturous applause over their 
rendering of the sentiment;]l and comic. But be- 
sides being remarkable as vocalists they are equally 
so as instrumentalists. Much of their music too 
i- of their own composition and many of their 
s >ngs are original with themselves. Such a com- 
bination of musical talent in one family is not. 
perhaps, to be found in this or any other country. 
It is a sight worth seeing, six noble young men, 
brother musicians, and all of them gentlemen of 
high personal worth.'' Although great induce 
ments were offered tin- brothers to enter the public 
arena as professional musicians, they declined all 
such propositions, preferring only to appear iu 
public when they could benefit some worthy ob 
ject by the proceeds of their concerts. Being in- 
vited to sing at the centennial celebration of tin 
Ohartiers Presbvterian Church, of which the Rev. 
Dr. John McMillan, the religions and educational 
pioneer of western Pennsylvania was the first pas- 
tor, they composed and sang an appropriate ode, 
giving a brief history of that distinguished minis- 
ter, which was so well received that its repetition 
was requested three times on that occasion. At 
the celebration of the fiftieth anniversary of the 
settlement of Rev. William Smith. D. D.. at the 
Miller's Run Presbyterian Church, bv special re- 
quest thev gave two concerts, in the afternoon and 
evening of the same day. when they donated the 
proceeds to a purse that was heing raised as a 
token of respect for the honored Doctor. For this 
anniversary thev also composed a special song 
which, having been rendered at their afternoon 
concert, was, at the request of the audience, sung 
again in the evening. The entertainments 
given by these brothers extended over a period 
of fourteen years, during which time they con- 
tinued to pursue their regular occupations and pro- 
fessions. 

By the death of Matthew, a young man of bright 
promise, the tuneful circle of the Brown Brothers 
was suddenly broken, and since then the voices of 
the rest are seldom heard together in pnblic. The 
names of the six brothers are as follows: J. Nevin, 
Henry H. , William F., Alexander B., Matthew B. 
and D. Finley Brown. At the last concert in which 
they all took part they sang an original ode en- 
titled, "We're a Band of Brothers," in which 



Of this ode we 



their sentiments were portrayed, 
give the closing verse: 

"We'll keep the bells of Freedom ringing, 
W.'ll keep tin- voice el Temperance singing; 
To tie Bible we'll keep clinging, 

While upon this earth we Stand. 
And when death lias come before us. 
And the vespei Stars shine e'er us. 
Let others swell the chorus, 

And shout it through our land." 

Soon after this concert the Brown Brothers 
numbered but five on earth, Matthew having been 
called to join the Heavenly Choir. 



II M RS. JANE B. PRALL was born November 
IV/I 9,1803, in Washington. Petiti., in a house 
I ¥- I on the lot where Dr. Little now lives. 
^ Her father. John Bollen. had come from 
v New Jersey to Washington county, where 

he married Ann, daughter of William Huston, a 
native of Ireland, who came to Washington county 
while the Indians were still denizens of the woods. 
It is said of William Huston that he was the 
first white man to settle in the county. His first 
dwelling, said to have been the first house built in 
Washington, was located on a piece of land where 
H. C. Swart now resides, on East Maiden street. 
He had married in Ireland, his native land, and 
had brought his wife with him to this country. 
Both died in Washington county, and at the time 
of his death he was the owner of a farm of JJOU 
acres near the borough of Washington. In 1754. 
while the English and French were at war, h.e was 
taken prisoner by the latter nud sent to France, 
where he lay in prison for about a year, was then 
exchanged and returned to Ameiica. His children 
were as follows: Dixon, Hamilton. James, Polly 
(married to Archibald Carr), Jane (married to John 
Smith), Margaret (married to John Pux'ton), and 
Ann (married to John Bollen). After marriage 
Mr. and Mrs. Bollen made their home in theborough 
of Washington until 1811, when, having exchanged 
their property there for a farm in Amwell town 
ship, they removed thereon, remaiuing some eleven 
years; thence came to South Strabane township 
where they passed the rest of their days. Mr. 
Bollen, who was a shoemaker by trade, died No- 
vember 7, 1846, his wife on May 4, 1848, aged 
eighty-five years. They were the parents of chil- 
dren "as follows: James and John, both deceased 
when young; William, who died in 1875; Margaret, 
married to William Van Kirk; Mary, married to 
George Week, and died in Ohio; Jane, the subject 
proper of this sketch, and Matilda (a mute), de- 
ceased in 1881. 

Jane Bolleu was married to John Prall, a farmer 

of Amwell township, in 1849. He was a man of 

| nearly seventy years of age at the time, and died, 



94 



WASHINGTO. 



January 10, 1875, at tbe age of ninety-six years. 
He had been previously married, and Lad by that 
anion eight children, viz.: Benjamin and Harrison 
0>oth deceased), Jackson (a resident of South Stra 
bane township), William. Nancy and Elizabeth (all 
three deceased), Mary (wife of W. Lacock. of Am 
well township) and Sarah (who died in Illinois). 
After marriage Mr. and Mrs. l'rall made their home 
in Amwell township, where Mr. Prall died as al- 
ready related. One year after that event his widow 
came to the borough of Washington, where she now 
has her home, a pleasant and comfortable one, on 
East Wheeling street. She is a remarkably well- 
preserved lady, and is spending her declining years 
with Christian patience and resignation, calmly 
awaiting the inevitable summons that shall call her 
hence. In her church connection she was origi- 
nally identified with the Cumberland Presbyterians, 
but is now a member of tbe Second Presbyterian 
Church of Washington. 

Mordecai Hoge (deceased), a half brother of Mrs. 
Prall, was born January 22, 1784, on the old Hus- 
ton farm in this county, a son of John Hoge, 
who owned the land from the center of Main street, 
in Washington, westward to, and perhaps includ 
ing, the whole or a portion of the Dr. Heed farm 
The boyhood days of Mordecai Hoge were passed 
chiefly in and around Washington, and when about 
six years of ag>- he was seni to the old-time log 
schoolhouse which stood a little below where the 
old weigh scales were placed, and on the rightside 
of the alley where the worshipers in the United 
Presbyterian Church are accustomed to put their 
conveyances. At that time there was in the. then. 
village but one stone dwelling, owned by a Mr. 
Bradford After Mr. Hoge had passed through 
his primary and academical training, about the 
year 1805, he became a student in Dickinson Col- 
lege. Carlisle, shortly after leaving which he mar- 
ried Rebecca Pentecost. In 1811 he engaged in 
teaching, his first school being kept in a log cabin 
located on the bank of Little Chartiers creek, and 
between the farm some time since owned by Slier 
iff R. McClelland and Linden village. The fob 
lowing year he moved about one mile south of this 
place, and taught twelve years at what was called 
the Cross Roads. He next taught for one year in 
a rude cabin on a farm situated on the pike leading 
from Washington to Monongahela City. In 1827 
he commenced teaching on what came to be known 
as "'Hoge's Summit." Bud continued there for six 
years. Mr. Hoge then took up his residence on 
the farm now owned by the heirs of Samuel Brown- 
lee, and during the time he would walk, summer 
and winter, not less than six miles. Immediately 
after the expiration of this last mentioned school 
term he taught near Pees' Mill for a short time, 
and later in a log schoolhouse on or near the site 
of the Hardy school in North Strabane township. 



Fro. ./point he returned to Hoge's Summit, and 
taught alwut twenty-three years, at the expiration 
of which time his public labors in this calling 
ceased. In summing up the whole time in 
which he was engaged in the work of teaching, 
the calculation will make it not less than forty-five 
years. It is a marked characteristic of the high 
esteem and appreciation of his services as an in 
structor of youth that this entire period was spent 
within the limit of seven miles, in many instances 
teaching the parent, then the child, then the grand 
child, until superannuation alone required his 
withdrawal from his arduous vocation. Mr. Hoge 
departed this life in 1870, at the age of eighty-six 
years, two months and three days, and on his 
tombstone in the Pigeon Creek cemetery is the fol- 
lowing inscription: "Tine Honor. A Faithful 
Teacher of Youth for More than Forty five Years 
This sketch of Mordecai Hoge has been gleaned 
from one that appeared in the Washington Review 
and Examiner at the time of his decease. 



QV. LAWRENCE The genealogy of the 
Lawrence family, of which this gentleman 
is a member, is imperfect. Those of that 
i name who became prominent in Massachu 
setts, New Y'ork and Pennsylvania are sup 
posed to have sprung from the brothers who came 
from England at an early day. A son of one of 
these settled in Adams county, Penn., about the 
year 1770. where he afterward died, leaving a 
family of ten children 

About the year 1788 his widow, with this large 
family, came over the mountains when there was 
only a pathway, the mother carrying the youngest 
sou, Joseph (then three years old), on her knee on 
horseback. They settled on a small farm on the 
headwaters of Pigeon creek, eight miles east of 
Washington, in a cabin, and here the family — 
seven daughters and three sons — grew up. In 
time the daughters all married in Washington 
county, and raised families: and a numerous pro- 
geny of children and grandchildren and their de- 
scendants sprang from these excellent women, and 
some of the later generation are found scattered over 
the West. The oldest son. John Lawrence, mar- 
ried and moved to Beaver county, and was twice 
elected to the Legislature from that county; after 
■ ward moved to Delaware county, Ohio, and died 
there, leaving a family. One of his sons was edu- 
cated at Washington College, studied law, became 
very prominent in his profession, and served in the 
Legislature of Ohio. His sou afterward served in 
the Senate of the State. 

Samuel Lawrence, the second son of the older 
stock, also moved to Beaver county, Penn., and 
was prothonotary of the courts for nine years. He 
was there elected to the Legislature, serving two 



^•■y -:.. 





/ 



W'ASHJXarON COUNTY. 



97 



sessions, and there died, leaving a large family. 
One of his sous was prothonotary of that county 
nine years, and afterward an associate judge. 

Joseph, the third son, remained on the farm with 
his mother, to whom he was much attached, and to 
whom he clung with strongest affection until she 
died at the age of ninety-five years. This son 
was compelled to work hard on the farm to main- 
tain the family, and only obtained a few months 
for improvement at school. He was married about 
the year 1812 or 1813 to Rebecca Van Eman, by 
whom he had four children: Joseph, George V., 
Sarah and Samuel. About the year 18'23 the 
mother died, Samuel being then a babe, and when 
five or six years old he died. Joseph grew up and 
married Eliza Horner, anil they both died in Feb- 
ruary, 1842, leaving four children, all of whom 
married, and three of them are still living. Sarah, 
the daughter, married Aid. Moore, an excellent 
man, and they raised five children, all of whom 
are married and very prosperous, living in Car- 
thage, Mo., except one daughter who is in Port- 
land, Oreg. The father of this family died 
about the year 1866; the mother is still in good 
health, and lives with the children in Carthage. 
Of George V. we will speak more in detail here- 
after. 

Joseph Lawrence, the elder, about the year 
1826 married, for his second wife, Maria, a daugh- 
ter of Judge Bucher, of Harrisburg, an excellent 
woman, as all who knew her bear testimony, and 
with her had four sons and one daughter. John J. 
Lawrence, the eldest son, was superintendent of 
the western portion of the Philadelphia & Erie 
Railroad for years, and afterward of the Allegheny 
Valley Railroad; he was colonel of one of the Penn- 
sylvania regiments in the army. He has a most in- 
teresting family, and is now retired, living in Alle- 
gheny, Penn. James K. Lawrence, the next son 
(now deceased), was a captain in the regular army; 
was efficient and brave, and had the confidence and 
esteem of every one in his company and regiment. 
He was very severely wounded at Fredericksburg, 
but recovered and died three years since at Rey- 
noldsville, Penn., leaving a small family. W. C. 
A. Lawrence, third sod, was educated at Washing- 
ton College, and studied law with Hon. J. C. 
Kunkle, of Harrisburg. He was fine looking, very 
pleasant in manner, and possessed of excellent 
natural ability. He was succeeding to a fine prac- 
tice at the bar in Dauphin county when he was 
elected to the Legislature in 1857. He was re- 
elected in 1858, and was elected speaker, obtain- 
ing the nomination over Hon. A. K. McClnre, a 
man of unusual ability. He was perhaps the 
youngest man ever elected speaker in this State. 
In 1859 he was re-elected to same position, and 
was exceedingly popular and efficient. The labor 



in the law office, and in the speaker's chair, proved 
too much for his constitution, and he died in 1860. 

Samuel, the fourth son, was well prepared by 
education, and studied engineering. He was ;i 
long time employed on the Philadelphia & Erie 
Railroad when very young. He laid out and 
helped to locate and build the Oil Creek Railroad. 
He was very efficient, and popular with all classes 
of people, and was nominated and elected to the 
Legislature, from Warren, McKean and Elk 
counties, serving one winter, peremptorily declin- 
ing a renomination. He died in Warren in 1862, 
leaving a widow but no children; she since died in 
Philadelphia. Susan M., the youngest, remained 
with her mother until her death, which occurred 
in Harrisburg, in 1860, and during the long ill- 
ness of her mother was ever with her, patient, con- 
siderate and kind. She afterward married Mr. 
Myron Sanford, of Erie, Penn., a retired and 
wealthy man of excellent character, who proved a 
most devoted husband. They raised one son a 
promising and intelligent young man, but both lie 
and his father are dead; Mrs. Sanford still lives in 
her beautiful home, esteemed and loved by all who 
know her and can appreciate the highest womanly 
virtues. 

The foregoing is a very brief and condensed his 
tory of the several children of Joseph Lawrence, 
the elder. A more extended notice of him and his 
son George V. Lawrence is appropriate, with a 
general reference to the public life of this family. 
It is seen here that the three brothers who were 
brought to Washington county, so early by the 
mother, poor and fatherless, were all members of 
the Legislature of their native State. Joseph, the 
youngest, was elected from Washington county in 
1820, and served until 1826, being speaker of the 
House two sessions; was elected to Congress in 
1826. He was for J. Q. Adams for President, but 
the tide for Jackson swept him down in 1828. In 
1834 he was nominated for the Legislature and 
elected, and re elected in 1835; was elected State 
treasurer in 1836. He ran for Congress in 1838, 
and was defeated by seventeen votes. In 1840 he 
was again the candidate of the Whig party and 
elected. He died on April 17, 1842, while a mem 
ber, and his body lies in the Congressional Ceme- 
tery, at Washington, D. C. Mr. Lawrence was a 
man of fine physical and mental abilities; was a 
good public speaker, logical and clear in argument 
with an unusual memory and a very pleasant 
manner, and he had the respect and confidence of 
all who knew him. Like his mother, and all bis 
extensive family, he was a Presbyterian, and when 
at home in the county generally walked three and 
one-half miles to church, and sat in the Bible class, 
his sons going with him to Sunday school. He 
was firm in the Pauline and Augustinian faith, 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



and a student of theology. His house was always 
open, and a kind of home for ministers who were 
fond of his company. 

We have before referred to his sons William 
and Samuel as members of the Legislature, and 
now come to speak more in detail of the remark- 
able life of George V., his son by his first mar 
riage. It is believed that no man in the State, and 
few anywhere, has had so many marks of public 
favor. He was born on November 13, ISIS, named 
after his uncle, George Van Eman, a Presbyterian 
minister, and raised on a farm in sight of the old 
home of his grandmother. He went to the district 
school, then kept in a small log-cabin house, with 
a log on each side cut out, and the opening covered 
with oiled paper to give light. When about fifteen 
years of age he studied Latin grammar with Rev. 
W. G. Anderson, then boarding with his father, 
and preaching at Pigeon Creek Church; afterward 
went for a time to a small select school, opened a 
few miles off; then went one year to the English 
Department of Washington College. His health 
failing, and being threatened with pulmonary dis- 
ease, his father, like any sensible man, took him 
back to the farm where he regained his health, 
and remained there until twenty-one years of age. 
He was fond of horses, and was a fearless and 
excellent rider, and still mounts his horse, takes 
his dogs and goes out to the country to run foxes. 
He has been an active politician since 1842. He 
was elected to the Legislature in 1843-46-' 58-' 59. 
In 1848 he was elected to the State Senate over 
his opponent, the late William Montgomery. He 
was re-elected to the Senate in 1860, from counties 
of Washington and Greene (overcoming 1,0110 
Democratic majority), of which body he was 
speaker in 1863, and he was again elected to the 
Senate in 1874-'76-'78. In 1864-'66-'82 he was 
elected a member of Congress. In 1872 he was 
ilected a delegate at -large to the constitutional 
convention, and was again elected to the Legisla- 
ture in the fall of 1892. Thus for fifty years he 
was identified with national and State politics, 
and it is a happy thought that his course in public 
life has always been devoted to progress and the 
right. 

In 1829 he married Elizabeth Welsh, a daugh- 
ter of the late William Welsh, Esq.. of Washing- 
ton county, and moved to a farm in Carroll town 
ship, near Monongahela City. About 1862 he 
came into the town, and has remained there ever 
since. His first wife died in 1855, leaving two 
children: Mary Virginia, still at home, and Joseph, 
who died when three years old. In 1857 Mr. 
Lawrence was again married, this time to a daugh- 
ter of Rev. John Reed, of Indiana county, Penn., 
and she is still living. Three children were born 
to them, the youngest of whom died when very 
young. George R., the eldest, was educated at 



La Fayette College, studied law with G. W. Bid 
die, Esq., of Philadelphia, and after practicing 
some years in Pittsburgh, died leaving a widow 
highly esteemed and respected. Carrie Belle, the 
daughter, married Dr. C. B. Wood, a regular 
physician, and lives near her parents. 




RS. MARY (CLARK) WYLIE. This 
highly esteemed and much beloved lady 
is a native of Washington county, born in 
Hopewell township, July 30, 1811, of 
Scotch-Irish origin and Covenanter ex- 
traction. Her paternal ancestor, James Clark, 
was driven from Scotland to Ireland during relig 
ious persecution, and from the latter country he 
emigrated to America about the year 1750, and in 
the Revolutionary war he was found in the Conti 
nental army. James Clark settled upon land in 
Cumberland (now Franklin) county, Penn., upon 
which the town of Strasburg was afterward laid 
out and built. "Clark's Knot," or "Clark's Gap," 
at the mountain near there, still tell of the original 
owner of the land which was then called "Clark's 
Fancy." James Clark died near Mercersburg, 
Penn., of which locality her grandfather, David 
Clark, was a native. The latter was married to 
Hannah Baird, of Carlisle, same State, and they 
became the parents of seven children, viz. : James 
(father of Mrs. Mary Wylie); Esther, married to 
Rev. Joseph Stockton, of Allegheny, now deceased ; 
Nancy, married to David Larimer, a merchant of 
Steubenville, Ohio; Elizabeth, married to Daniel 
Houston, of near Canonsburg, this county; Mary, 
wife of Paul Anderson, of St. Lou.s, Mo. ; David 
and Eliza, in Mercersburg, Pennsylvania. 

James Clark, the eldest son of David and Han 
nah (Baird) Clark, grew to manhood on the farm 
in Canton township (now known as the S. K. 
Weirich farm), where he received a liberal eduea 
cation for those early days. Later he kept a store 
in Hopewell township, also a mill, and was engaged 
in various other business enterprises: he had an 
interest in the wagon trains that crossed the 
mountains for merchandise, and assisted in the 
building of the National pike. He married Jane 
Henderson, a daughter of Rev. Matthew Hender- 
son, one of the first Associate ministers to cross 
the mountains, and who came to Washington 
county in 1780, taking charge of the Cbartiers 
Church. He was in line of Rev. Alexander Hen- 
derson of "Solemn league and Covenant" fame, 
of Edinburgh, Scotland. Rev. Matthew Hender- 
son married Miss Mary Ferris, who bore him ten 
children, all of whom grew to maturity and mar- 
ried, their names being as follows: Matthew, 
Ebenezer, Robert, John, Mary, Ann, Elizabeth. 
Jane, Joseph and Helen After marriage Mr. and 
Mrs. James Clark settled on a farm in Hopewell 



WASHINGTOh COUNTY. 



99 



township, where, July 10, 1821, at the age of 
thirty seven years, the husband was summoned 
from earth. He was a member of the Associate 
Church. They had seven children, as follows: 
David, who died in Washington county, leaving a 
family of five children; Mary, the subject proper 
of this memoir; Matthew, who was a physician, 
and died in Washington, Perm. ; James, who died 
in Canonsburg, Peun. ; Elizabeth, married to John 
Murdoch, and died in Parkersburg, Va. ; Will- 
iam, who died in Canton township, and Ebenezer, 
who died when a child. The widowed mother con- 
tinued to remain on the old home farm with her 
children, until they had all left for homes of their 
own, and she then lived with one or other of them, 
the last year of her life being passed with her 
daughter, Mary (Mrs. Wylie), at whose home she 
died in 1870, at the ripe old age of eighty-six 
years. 

Mary Clark remained at the place of her birth 
in Hopewell township until her marriage Septem- 
ber 2, 1829, with William Wylie, when they took 
up their residence on the farm in Canton township, 
now occupied by the David McClay heirs, whence 
after five years they moved to the Razortown farm 
(now known as the Ellenmount stock farm) in the 
same township, and here for forty-five years they 
shared life's joys and sorrows. In 1877 Mr. Wylie 
was called from earth at the age of nearly seventy 
seven years. About a year and a hal f after her hus 
band's death, Mrs. Wylie broke up housekeeping, 
and in 1880 moved to her present home on East 
Maiden street, in the borough of Washington, 
where she resides with her widowed daughter, 
Mrs. Annie Thompson. She is remarkably well 
preserved for her years, and is in the enjoyment of 
good health. All her life from girlhood she has 
been a member of the United Presbj'terian Church. 
She can recount many interesting anecdotes of her 
early life and other days, which carry the listener 
back to a time when Washington county was in a 
condition of comparative wildness. In her child- 
hood the Indians had for the most part gone from 
the county, but when she was about seven years of 
age, on proceeding one day to the old spring in the 
neighborhood for water, she heard a moan, and on 
looking up was horrified to see a hideous Indian 
watching her; it is almost needless to add that she 
fled in no small alarm to the house. Her people 
went in search of the Indian, and finding him they 
gave him food, and sent him on his way rejoicing, 
for they learned from him that he was traveling 
eastward. 

Mrs. Wylie is the mother of four children: Rob- 
ert, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere; Jane, 
married to John S. Beall, and has two children 
(residence, Wellsburg, W. Va.); Annie, widow of 
Rev. Joseph R. Thompson, and James Clark (de- 
ceased). Joseph R. Thompson was born in Mt. 

C. 



Pleasant township, Washington Co., Penn., in 
1828. He graduated from Canonsburg Theolog 
ical Seminary, became the pastor of the U. P. 
Church at Hickory (he was one of three brothers, 
all of whom were ministers in the U. P. Church), 
and was filling the incumbency at the time of his 
death in 1861. In 1859 he was married to Miss 
Aunie Wylie, and they had one child, named Will 
iam, who died at the age of four years. 



I UDGE WILLIAM McKENNAN. The gnat 
. I grandfather of Judge William McKennan, 
CI Rev. William McKennan, immigrated to 
"-' America from the North of Ireland about the 
middle of the last century. For a period of fifty 
four years, from December. 1755, he was pastor of 
the White Clay Creek and the Red Clay Creek 
Presbyterian churches, near Wilmington, Del., 
and during thirty-four years of this time he was 
also pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of 
Wilmington. He died in lSOy.atthe age of ninety, 
and is buried at Red Clay Creek church. 

His son, William McKennan, was born in Dela- 
ware in 1758. In the early part of 1776 he en- 
tered the Continental army as second lieutenant of 
('apt. Keau's company of the regiment of the Fly- 
ing Camp. In the latter part of the same year, 
upon the organization of the famous Delaware 
Regiment, he became first lieutenant of the first 
company, and afterward he was promoted to the 
captaincy of his company. In September, 1777, 
he was engaged in the battle of Brandywine, and 
a month later, at the battle of Germantown, he re- 
ceived a wound in the arm which ultimately 
caused his death, thirty years later. In 1780 he 
took part in the battles of Monmouth, Camden, 
South Carolina and Cowpens. After the battle of 
Camden, in which the Delaware regiment suffered 
severe losses, Capt. Kirkwood took command of 
the regiment, and, in December, 1780, Capt. Mc- 
Kennan returned to Delaware and enlisted a body 
of men, who, however, did not join the Delaware 
regiment, but was brigaded with William Washing- 
ton's Legion and troops of the Maryland Line, and 
was commanded by Capt. McKennan until the 
close of the war, in 1783. Capt. McKennan and 
his battalion were engaged in the operations 
against Yorktown, which resulted in the surrender 
to the Continentals of the main British army 
under Cornwallis. Afterward the battalion per- 
formed arduous and highly honorable service un- 
der Gen. Greene, in North and South Carolina. 
Upon his return to civil life, Capt. McKennan 
was chosen colonel of a regiment of Delaware 
militia, and was elected a member of the Legislat- 
ure of his native State. He also became a mem- 
ber of the Order of the Cincinnati. In 1797 he 
removed to Charleston u, Va. (now Wellsburg, W. 



100 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Va.), thence, in 1800, to West Middletown, Wash- 
ington couuty, and in 1801, having been ap- 
pointed prothonotary of Washington county, he be- 
came a resident of the town of Washington, and 
continued to live thereuntil his death, in January. 
L810. In 1800, before his removal from Charles 
town, he was one of the three presidential electors 
from Brooke county. Col. McKennan married 
Elizabeth Thompson, daughter of John Thomp- 
son, one of the judges of the court of common 
pleas and Orphans' court of Newcastle county, 
Del., an active patriot aud prominent citizen of the 
State during and subsequent to the Revolutionary 
war. Mrs. McKennan' s mother was the sister of 
Thomas McKean, a member of Congress and a 
Signer of the Declaration of Independence, from 
Delaware, and afterward governor and chief justice 
of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania. Mrs. Mc- 
Kennan died at Washington, Penu. , in 1839, at 
the age of seventy-eight years. 

Thomas McKean Thompson McKennan, the 
third son of William and Elizabeth Thompson 
McKennan, was born in March, 1794, in Newcas- 
tle county, Del. He was educated at Washing 
ton College (Penn. ), whence he graduated at the 
age of sixteen in the class of 1810. Immediately 
thereafter he began the study of law under Parker 
Campbell, of Washington (Penn.), one of the most 
brilliant lawyers who has ever graced the bar of 
western Pennsylvania, and on November 7, 1814, 
at the age of twenty-one, he was admitted to 
practice. Shortly afterward he formed a legal 
partnership with Obadiah Jennings, eminent as 
well in the forum as in the pulpit, and at once 
entered upon a career of success. A year later 
he succeeded Walter Forward as deputy Attorney- 
general or district attorney of the county, in which 
office he served until 1817. In 1831 Mr. McKen- 
nan was elected to the House of Representatives 
of the United States, and continued a member 
thereof for four terms, finally declining further re- 
election on account of the urgency of his profes- 
sional work. In 184'2, however, a vacancy having 
occurred in the House by reason of the death of 
Joseph Lawrence, Mr. McKennan yielded to the 
solicitations of his party and the public demand, 
and served the remainder of the term. He was 
chairman of the Committee of the Whole for two 
months of the first session of that year, and as 
such was largely instrumental in securing the pas- 
sage of the famous Tariff Act of 1842. In 1840 he 
was chosen a presidential elector on the Whig 
ticket, and in 1848 he was made president of the 
Pennsylvania Electoral College. In 1850 he was 
appointed Secretary of the Interior by President 
Fillmore, but resigned a few weeks later. Soon 
after this he became president of the Hempfield 
Railroad Company, and while attending to its 



affairs he died at Reading, Penn., on July 9, 1852. 
In politics Mr. McKennan was an earnest Whig. 

Mr. McKennan entered Washington College at 
a very early age, and passed through the entire cur- 
riculum. In February, 1813, he was appointed 
tutor of the ancient languages, in which position 
he continued for eighteen months. In April, 1818, 
he was chosen a member of the College Corporation, 
and continued as such up to the time of his death, 
a period of tliirty four years. For several years he 
held the position of adjunct professor of languages. 
The degree of LL. D. was conferred on him by 
Jefferson College, Canonsburg, Penn. The life of 
Mr. McKennan was one of purest probity, aud in 
his quiet, unobtrusive, yet effective way, he con- 
tributed largely toward the shaping of the political 
destiny of the State of Pennsylvania. He was 
universally respected, and his popularity was un- 
bounded. In his private life he was beloved by all 
as a loyal citizen, a devoted husband, an affection 
ate and indulgent parent and a true friend. He 
was devotedly attached to children, was a lover of 
good men and a supreme detester of all manuer of 
vice and meanness. In 1815 Mr. McKennan mar- 
ried Matilda, daughter of Jacob Bowman, one of 
the pioneer merchants of Brownsville, Penn. 

William McKennan, the eldest sou of Thomas 
M. T. and Matilda (Bowman) McKennan, was born 
at Washington, Penn., September 27, 1816. He 
graduated as valedictorian of his class, from Wash- 
ington College, Washington (Penn.), in 1833, and 
afterward took a post graduate course at Yale Col- 
lege, New Haven., Conn. He was admitted to the 
bar of Washington county ia June, 1837, entered 
into partnership with his father, and on August 23, 
1837, qualified as deputy attorney-general or dis- 
trict attorney of Washington county, and served 
one term. In 1847 he was burgess of the borough 
of Washington, and in 1852 a member of its coun- 
cils. In 1S58, 1802 and 1863 he was a delegate 
from Washington county to the Republican State 
Conventions, and in 1868 a delegate to the National 
Convention. In 1857 he was chairman of the 
Republican committee of Washington county, 
in 1858 was a member of the Republican State 
Central commitee; in 1860 was a presidential 
elector; in the same year was a delegate to the 
Peace Congress, and on December 21, 1869. was 
commissioned Judge of the Circuit Court of the 
United States for the third circuit, comprising 
Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware, which 
office he resigned on January 3, 1891. While 
at the bar, Judge McKennan was recognized as 
one of the foremost lawyers of western Pennsyl- 
vania, and during his twenty-one years' incum- 
bency of the bench he won a high reputation for 
integrity and ability. 

He married, October 12, 1842, Pauline Gertrude 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



101 



de Fontevieux, who was born at Paris, France, 
March 23, 1821, and died May 7, 1886, at Wash- 
ington, Penn. The children of this union were: 
Isabel B. , who married George M. Laughlin, of 
Pittsburgh, Penn., and died December 5, 1891; 
Thomas M. T. ; Emma W., who married William 
W. Smith, of Washington, Penn., and died August 
30, 1879; Henry S. , who died at Washington, 
Penn., January 9, 1S8S; Samuel C. ; John D. ; 
Gertrude M. ; Annie, who married Alexander W. 
Biddle, of Philadelphia, Penn.; David W. and 
William, Jr. 

ripHE GRAYSON FAMILY of Washington, 
Penn. Nathaniel Grayson, the first of the 
family of whom wo have record, lived ami 
II died in or near Glaslaugh, County Monaghan, 
v Ireland, where he carried on a woolen 
manufactory. He was the father of five children: 
fouraons — George, William, Robert, and Thomas 
ami one daughter — Mary. The family residence 
was called "New Mills," where the youngest son 
died, and William and the late Judge John Gray- 
son were born. George, the eldest son, followed 
the pursuit of his father, and removing to Man 
clicster, England, established a manufactory. Tin' 
family at latest accounts, still reside there. Will- 
iam, the second son of Nathaniel, preceded his 
brother t<> this country, both arriving several years 
prior to the adoption of the Federal Constitution. 
Robert, whose wife was Mary Murdock, of Glas- 
laugh, sister of Robert and John Murdock, prom- 
inent citizens of that place, arrived at New 
Castle, Delaware, in June, 1784, with his wife ami 
son, John, then nine months old, widowed mother 
and son William. He soon purchased property, 
locating in Mifflin, Penn., where at an early period 
his wife and mother died. The family then re- 
moved to Carlisle, Cumberland county, Penn., 
where the sons were reared and educated. After 
the lapse of several years the father married Mrs. 
Jane Kennedy, widow of Thomas Kennedy, who 
tenderly, indulgently and faithfully contributed to 
raise her stepsons, William and John. The latter 
in his diary, speaking of his stepmother, remarks: 
" And even now, in my old age, I recall to mind 
with tender recollection her devotion and anxious 
care and industry, as a wife and mother." The 
children of this marriage were as follows: George, 
Mary, Margaret and Anne. Mr. Robert Grayson, 
as a citizen, occupied a prominent place and took 
an active part in the political events of his day. At 
one time he was sheriff of Cumberland county, and 
died in Carlisle after a well-spent life. 

William was connected with the regular army, 
and stationed at Carlisle barracks. In 1808 he 
was ordered to Fort Wayne, Ind. , where, soon after 
his arrival, he died from fever contracted on the 
march. 



Having a taste for the printing business, John 
Grayson at a suitable age commenced to acquire a 
knowledge of the same in Carlisle. After close appli 
cation for four years, he went to Philadelphia and 
entered the book office of William Duane, editor of 
The A urora. From this time until near the break 
ing out of the war of 1812, Mr. Grayson was 
engaged in the printing business at different times, 
in Philadelphia, New York and Baltimore. On 
June 18, 1812, news was received by express from 
Washington, D. C, of the declaration of war by 
Congress against Great Britain, Mr. Grayson be- 
ing in the city of Baltimore at the time. He at 
once enlisted in a volunteer regiment, serving as a 
volunteer in the army until September, 1813, when 
he was honorably discharged; but immediately re- 
enlisted in the regular army, serving as lieutenant 
and adjutant in the regiment to which he belonged 
until the close of the war, participating in many of 
the prominent battles. After the close of the war 
he was appointed by President Madison to the 
corps of artillery to form part of the "New Seventh 
Regiment;" but, wishing to return to private life, 
he resigned his commission September 7, 1815. 
Returning to Baltimore, he entered the book office 
of .iames Kennedy as partner, and remained there 
until after his marriage. On May 9, 1816, he was 
married in Baltimore, Md., by Rev. James Inglis, 
D. D., to Miss Martha Wray, daughter of John 
and Mary Wray, of that city. Mr. Wray came 
from Ireland to this country soon after the Revolu- 
tionary war, settling in Carlisle, Cumberland Co. , 
Penn., where he became an active citizen, being 
identified with the business and political interests 
of the community. He 'was married to Mary, 
daughter of John Robinson, of Chester county, 
Penn. Their family consisted of three children, 
viz., Thomas R., John and Martha, the wife of 
Mr. Grayson. Mr. Wray, the father, died in Bal- 
timore, June, 1819, aged sixty-nine years, and Mrs. 
Wray, having spent a long and useful Christian life, 
died peacefully in the home of Mr. and Mrs. 
Grayson, Washington, Penn., at the advanced age 
of ninety-five. In the year 1817, Mr. Grayson 
purchased in Philadelphia a plant for the establish 
ment of a newspaper. Traveling by stage, he 
proceeded to Washington, Penn., and issued the 
first number of The Examiner on May 28, IS 17, 
of which he was sole proprietor and editor until 
1833, when he took into partnership William Jack. 
This partnership continued several years, when Mr. 
Jack retiring, his son Thomas W. became his 
partner, Mr. Grayson, senior, retiring in 1840. 

Thomas W. Grayson, the eldest son, was born in 
Baltimore, Md., and brought by his parents, an 
infant, when they permanently removed to Wash- 
ington. After his father retired from the editor 
ship, he continued connected with The Examiner 
until May, 1861, when he removed to Meadville, 



102 



WASHINGTON COUA /') 



Prim., there becoming proprietor aud editor of 
The Crawford County Democrat, and continued to 
edit it for niore than twenty years, when he retired 
on account of ill health. Thomas W. Grayson 
was married to Miss Mary Elizabeth Green, 
daughter of Mr. A. Green, of Washington, D. C. 
Their family consisted of four daughters and one 
son: Miss Annie, now a resident of Washington, 
Penn. ; Mrs. Mary W. Richmond, wife of A. G. 
Richmond, Esq., of Meadville, Penn.; Airs 
Martha Ayres, wife of Samuel Ay res, M. D. , of 
Pittsburgh, Penn. ; Lucy M. (deceased), aud 
Thomas Wray, a resident of Washington, Penn. 
Mr. T. W. Grayson died in Meadville, Penn., May 
20, 1876, and Mrs. Grayson in Washington, Penn., 
in February, 1892. 

The remaining portion of Mr. and Mrs. John 
Grayson's family consisted of four sons and two 
daughters. Of these a son, Stephen, and daughter, 
Mary J. , died in infancy. John Grayson, Esq., 
at present a resident of Pittsburgh, Penn., until 
within a few years a prominent aud useful citizen 
of Washington, was married to Miss Sarah Ellen 
Scott, daughter of Mr. George Scott, of Pittsburgh. 
Their children: Mary, Lizzie, Eleanor, John, John 
T. , William, and Eugene deceased. Anna Moore, 
residing with her parents; Sarah E., wife of Mr. 
Douglas Buchanan, Pittsburgh, Penn., aud Harry 
S., of the same city. 

William Grayson, son of Judge Grayson, gradu- 
ated at Washington College, studied law with John 
L. Gow, Esq., was admitted to the bar. He was a 
young man of fine, scholarly attainments, a close 
student with bright hopes before him, but died just 
entering upon a professional life, lamented by all 
who knew him. 

Miss Martha, the only remaining daughter, is a 
graduate of the Washington Female Seminary, and 
during the principalship of Mrs. Hanna was an in- 
structress in that institution. Being a member of 
the Presbyterian Church, she is much interested 
in the missionary efforts of that body. Miss Gray- 
son resides at and dispenses the hospitalities of the 
homestead. Dr. Wray Grayson resides in his na- 
tive place. At an early age he entered Washing- 
ton College, and graduated in the class of 1840. 
Soon after he commenced reading medicine, finish- 
ing his studies, and receiving his degree at the 
Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, in 1853. 
With the exception of ten years, when engaged in 
hospital practice, Dr. Grayson's entire professional 
life has been spent in his native place. In 1877 
the Doctor was married to Miss Margaret Hazlett, 
daughter of Mr. Samuel Hazlett (banker), of 
Washington, Penn. He is a member of the 
" American Medical Association," "The Pennsyl- 
vania State Medical Society," and the " Washing- 
ton County Medical Society." 

Judge John Grayson's ancestry were adherents 



to the Evangelical Church; and for many years he 
was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, 
Washington, Penn. Reference has already been 
made to his faithful services during the war of 
1812. In after life he was appointed and elected 
to the following official positions: Register of 
wills by Governor Wolf in 1830; re-appointed by 
same in 1833. Appointed, by Governor Porter, 
prothonotary of Washington county, and in 1839 
was elected to same office. In March, 1843, he was 
appointed associate judge of the courts of Wash 
ington county, by Governor Porter; in 1853 was 
appointed, by President Pierce, pension agent; in 
1 SoT was appointed to same by President Buchanan, 
and continued performing the duties of that office 
in Pittsburgh. Penn., until August, 1861. Al 
though a large portion of Mr. Grayson's life was 
occupied with the public duties mentioned, he 
nevertheless took a deep interest in matters per 
taining to the moral and educational improvement 
of the community in which he lived. He was the 
fast friend of educational institutions, and in con- 
nection with other venerated and spirited citizens, 
assisted in establishing the Ladies' Seminary of 
Washington, Penn., performing the duties of 
treasurer of the board of trustees for more than 
thirty years, when advancing age compelled him to 
resign — yet, as a trustee and stockholder, he con 
tinned to take a deep interest in the institution. 
Mr. Grayson retained in a remarkable degree his 
mental vigor, and was interested in everything 
pertaining to the public welfare almost to the hour 
of his death, which event occurred March 11, 1871, 
with the full assurance of a blessed immortality, 
his last words being: " Passing, passing, entering 
through. Peaceful, peaceful, peaceful with God 
in Christ through all eternity." 

Mrs. Grayson died April 20, 1865, at the age of 
seventy-five, leaving the cherished record of a use- 
ful life; loving and affectionate in her home, at 
the same time reaching forth with sympathetic 
heart and generous hand to others. Her memory 
is revered by all who knew her. 



*j""~\ OBERT HAZLETT, head of the Hazlett 
}^C( family of Washington, Penn., with his 
I V, wife, Mary Colwell Hazlett, came to Amer 
JJ -^ iea from Coleraine, Ireland, about the close 
v of the Revolutionary war. They settled in 

Carlisle, Cumberland Co., Penn., where their chil- 
dren, Hugh, Isaac, John and Jane, were born. In 
1793 they concluded to change their residence for 
a home in the South (Kentucky), but upon arriving 
at Washington over the road then traveled from 
Red Stone Fort, they were detained on account of 
a severe storm. The impression made by this 
brief detention was so favorable that they con 
eluded to locate in the then small village of Wash 



WA SHING TOS GOVS TV. 



103 



iugton, where he commenced business as a dry- 
goods mercbaut. Being successful be purcbased 
property in the central part of tbe town, where his 
sons — Robert and Samuel — and daughters — Mar- 
garet and Mary — were born. (Tbisspot has been in 
possession of the Hazlett family about one hundred 
years, part of tbe third generation being its occu- 
pants at present). Of Robert Hazlett's ancestry 
in Ireland we know but little personally. His 
parents being interested in the highest welfare of 
the family, Robert was sent to Edinburgh (Scot- 
land), to be educated for a clergyman in the Es- 
tablished Church (Episcopal), but that not being 
his desire, he left before taking orders. His 
brother, it is thought, was also at the same univer 
sity, and, being more devout in the faith, became a 
minister in the Anglican Church, and afterward 
was ordained bishop. Mary Colwell Hazlett, as 
nearly as we can trace history, was of Huguenot 
descent (the family name being Reanie). The an- 
cestors escaped from France to England, and went 
from there to the North of Ireland, after the 
"Edict of Nantes" had been revoked, as there was 
"no safety for Protestants but in night from their 
native land." Mary (wife of Robert Hazlett) was 
remarkable for her personal beauty, and great 
force of character. During her residence in Gar 
lisle she became very ardently attached to the 
.Methodist Episcopal Church. With a heart con- 
secrated to the service of Christ, her enthusiastic 
nature and integrity of purpose were wonderfully 
developed by Divine influence. She was not only 
a wise couuselor, judicious mother, in her own 
home, but a tower of strength in the Church of 
her choice. Upon arriving at Washington, not 
finding a Methodist minister, such was her love 
for the Master, she would ride several miles to 
Chartiers Presbyterian Church to hear a sermon 
(Dr. McMillan being the pastor). But her zeal 
urged her to work for her own denomination. Col- 
lecting the few members she could find, she formed . 
a class, and in a short time a Methodist minister 
(Rev. Furlong) held service in an upper room in a 
building used as a market house; afterward in the 
court house, where seats were provided for women 
only, men being obliged to stand. This continued 
until 1801, when, through the kindness of David 
Hoge, a lot was donated at the corner of Franklin 
and Chestnut streets, where a log church was 
speedily built, in which the small congregation 
statedly worshiped, increasing in numbers and re- 
ligious interest until 1816, when, through the in- 
fluence of Mary Hazlett and family, a new brick 
church was erected on Franklin street (now occu- 
pied by Hays & Wilson as a carriage factory). 
As long as health permitted, she was a devout 
worshiper in that church, and when strength 
failed, had a religious meeting weekly at her own 
home, until removed in 1844 to the li City whose 



Maker and Builder is God." Her grandchildren 
and great-grandchildren refer to her memory with 
gratitude and gladness of heart on account of her 
many noble, womanly traits, for surely " Her 
works praise her in the gates." — Prov. xxxi: 31. 
The sons (of Robert and Mary Colwell Hazlett), 
Hugh, Isaac and Robert, left their native State 
(Pennsylvania) when quite young and located in 
Ohio. Hugh married Miss Mary McFadden; had 
three sons, Robert, Thomas, and Hugh; also three 
daughters, Mary, Eliza and Margaret. Second 
son (Isaac) married Miss Matilda Calhoun; their 
sons (three in number) were Robert, Samuel and 
Theodore; daughters, Mary Frances and Matilda, 
the latter being the only surviving member. 
Third sou (John Hazlett) died of fever in early 
manhood, unmarried. Fourth son (Robert) mar- 
ried Miss Lucy Reed, of Putnam, Ohio; bad four 
sons, William, John, George and Charles. The 
latter, Charles E. Hazlett, was educated at West 
Point, and yielded up his life to his country's 
cause on the buttle field of Gettysburg (July 2, 
1 863), while in command of a battery of rifled can 
non of the Fifth Artillery. His superior officer, 
Gen. Weed, being mortally wounded, Lieut. Haz 
lett, while bending over to hear his dying words, 
received his death wound. He is referred to, and 
spoken of in history, as the gallant young Lieut. 
Hazlett. The daughters of Robert and Lucy 
I iced Hazlett were Mary, Elizabeth, Lucy and Mar- 
garet. Jane Hazlett, eldest (laughter of Robert 
and Mary Colwell Hazlett, was married to Dr. 
•lames Wishart, brother of late Dr. John Wishart, 
well and favorably known in Washington and vi- 
cinity. Two children survived their parents, Rob- 
ert and Mary. Second daughter (Mary Hazlett) 
was married to James Acheson Cummins, then a 
resident of Washington, Penn., and afterward re 
moved to the vicinity of Wheeling, W. Va. Their 
sons were Robert, James, and Thomas; daughters, 
Mary, Elizabeth, and Margaret. Eldest son, Dr. 
Robert Cummins, became eminent in his profes- 
sion in his native city (Wheeling). Honored and 
beloved, he was removed by death in the midst of 
his useful career. Dr. James Cummins also prac- 
ticed medicine in the same city. The care of the 
homestead devolved upon Thomas, who never 
married; Elizabeth and Margaret Cummins are 
the only members now surviving. Margaret, 
youngest daughter of Robert and Mary Colwell 
Hazlett, was married to Michael Johns, and died 
in a few short years, leaving one little daughter, 
Mary. Samuel Hazlett married Miss Sarah Johns, 
eldest daughter of the late Thomas and Elizabeth 
Shryock Johns, whose home in earlier days was at 
Chambersburg, Penn. Sons of the latter, six in 
number, were William, Michael, Lewellyn, Edwin, 
Alfred and Thomas; eldest son, Dr. William Johns, 
was a physician of note in Erie, Penn. Dr. Alfred 



104 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Johns died shortly after commencing the practice 
of medicine at Norfolk. Va. There are, at this date, 
but two living members of the family, Elizabeth and 
Hester Ann (Mrs. Day), of Canonsburg, Penn. 
Thomas Johns was of Quaker descent, his family be- 
ing originally from Wales. The family of Samuel 
and Sarah Johns Hazlett, consisted of four sons and 
seven daughters. Thomas, the eldest, an intelli- 
gent, promising son, died of pulmonary disease in 
his early manhood. Robert studied medicine with 
his cousin, the late Dr. Itobert H. Cummins; lo- 
cated in Wheeling and became a very successful 
practitioner; married Miss Mary B. Hobbs, of Bos- 
ton, Mass. ; has four living sons, Howard, Samuel, 
Edward and Robert, active, energetic young busi- 
ness men, interested in progress of Church and 
State, Katharine being the only daughter. Third 
son, Samuel, married Miss Lucy Woodhull, of 
Bangor, Me.; have three living children: Helen, 
eldest and only daughter; Charles R., engaged in 
commission business, Kansas City, Mo. ; Samuel, 
younger son, being associated with his father in a 
banking house. The latter being very much in- 
terested in the Church of his grandparent, has 
has been instrumental in the organization and 
completion of Jefferson Avenue Methodist Episco- 
pal Church, lately erected in Washington, Penn. 
Homer, youngest son of Samuel and Sarah Johns 
Hazlett, died in infancy, as did also Mary, Eliza- 
beth, Matilda and Anna Augusta. The two living 
daughters are Margaret (wife of Dr. Wray Gray- 
son, Washington, Penn.); Mary (Mrs. Joseph H. 
Brown, Pittsburgh, Penn.). Latter had one child, 
Maddie H. Brown, an unusually bright and lovely 
daughter, who was removed from earth to Heaven 
at the early age of fourteen. Sarah Hazlett, the 
late Mrs. S. B. Vowell, was taken away in the 
prime of her useful life, loving and beloved. Her 
husband and three children survive her: Samuel, 
Sarah (Mrs. Edwin F. Brown, in Chicago, 111.) 
and Mary. Samuel Hazlett, youngest son of Rob- 
ert and Mary Colwell Hazlett, was born in 1798, 
upon the spot where he continued to transact busi- 
ness and reside during the greater part of his use- 
ful life. When about fifteen years of age, his 
father died, leaving the widowed mother in Sam- 
uel's care, who devoted himself to her interests 
with tender love and watchfulness during her en- 
tire life; received such an education as the 
times afforded; at an early age engaged in mer- 
cantile business, which he continued until 1837, 
when he became interested in banking business. 
Being public spirited, always looking at the pros- 
perity of his native town, he from time to time en- 
gaged in other pursuits that promised the welfare 
of Washington. At one time he conducted a manu- 
factory of woolen goods, finding ready sale for the 
same, not only in Pennsylvania and Ohio, but ex 
tending to a considerable distance west. The 



large flooring mill (now in possession of Zelt Bros.) 
was also built through the capital and enterprise 
of Samuel Hazlett. He was also the pioneer 
banker of Washington county. Banking facilities 
at that time were so limited that business men had 
to depend for accommodations upon Pittsburgh, 
Wheeling and Brownsville. Moneyed transactions, 
therefore, were not and could not be conducted as 
now, in this section. State banks were in a very 
uncertain condition; counterfeiters of coin and 
paper money carried on their trade almost unre- 
strained, and many things contributed to make 
private banking a business of great risk. Not- 
withstanding all difficulties, knowing the advan- 
tage to the public, and being encouraged by friends 
in the idea of establishing a " banking house, " 
Samuel Hazlett opened an office in Washington, 
in 1837, and continued in the same during the re 
mainderof his life. In his career as a banker, he 
confined himself to what he considered a legiti 
mate banking business. Holding that it was not 
right to place in jeopardy the moneys of depos- 
itors, he never engaged in stock, or other specu- 
lations of like nature. The " Banking House " 
of Samuel Hazlett was a constant success. At t lie 
time of the death of its founder (18(53) it stood 
" first class," not only in this country, but abroad. 
Samuel and Sarah Johns Hazlett were devoted mem 
bers of the M. E. Church, showing their devotion 
to its best interests at home, and in distant mis 
sionary fields, by liberal contributions to its sup 
port — thus proving their faith by their works; 
and their family bear in their heart of hearts the 
remembrance of their unbounded affection, the 
religious principles inculcated in the home train- 
ing, their sense of justice and correct judgment 
which gave direction and guidance to all with 
whom they were connected. Those that " knew 
them best, loved them most." 



ri( B. CALDWELL. Washington county has 
/' \\ possessed many prominent citizens; but 
tj~\\ in all their number can be found no one 
II -* more truly representative, more widely 
and actively awake to the interests of the 
community at large than was the subject of this 
sketch. A self-made man in its truest and broad 
est sense, by his own energy and untiring efforts 
A. B. Caldwell, rose from the humble ranks of a 
poor farm boy, to the proud distinction of being 
one of the most universally respected and influen- 
tial merchant citizens of Washington county. 

The Caldwell family are descended from Scotch- 
Irish ancestry, who were among the pioneer settlers 
of Pennsylvania. The first of the family to settle 
in Washington county was Samuel Caldwell 
(grandfather of subject), who made his cabin home 
with the then scattered settler; o f Buffalo town- 




'^StL/3 <&, 



U'ASH/XGTOX COUNTY. 



1<>7 



ship. Here, surrounded by the dangers of those 
early days, enduring the privations which none 
but a pioneer can know, his children were born. 
Of them James Caldwell (father of subject) was 
born in 1797. Upon reaching manhood he married 
Miss Esther McCracken, daughter 'of a neighbor 
iug pioneer. The young couple made their home 
in their native township, and began tilling the soil; 
but some years later, in connection with farming, 
he opened and kept, on the "Old West Pike," the 
"Caldwell Inn," within whose hospitable walls so 
many travelers have found food and shelter. The 
original inn, like its builders, has passed away, 
but in its place stands another hostelry, built on 
the same plan, in 1883, by the subject of this 
sketch. James and Esther Caldwell were the pat- 
ents of the following named children: 'Samuel, 
who died in Missouri; John, who died in Illinois; 
Joseph, William, A. B. and Esther, who resided 
in Washington county, and of whom only Esther is 
now (1893) living. The father of this family died 
in 1839, aged forty-two years, the mother in 1875, 
at the age of seventy five. 

A. B. Caldwell was born in 1828. He was but 
eleven years of age when his father died, thus 
throwing upon the mother the entire care and re- 
sponsibility of the family, and necessitating that 
the children should early participate in the real 
battle of life, and contribute to their own support. 
A woman of sterling character herself, Mrs. Cald- 
well labored earnestly to keep her family together, 
and impress them with the principles of the strict- 
est honesty. Ever entertaining for his mother the 
greatest reverence and affection, her son readily 
imbibed her teachings, that did much to mold his 
after life. At the age of sixteen he went to Clays- 
ville, Washington county, where he clerked for a 
time, and then formed a partnership with a Mr. 
Stillwagen, to conduct a general dry goods busi- 
ness, the firm being known as Caldwell & Still- 
wagen. This partnership continued for three 
years, when, selling the interest to his partner, in 
January, 1852, Mr. Caldwell came to Washington, 
and took charge of William Smith's dry goods 
store, where as manager he remained twelve years. 
In 1858 Mr. Caldwell was united in marriage with 
Miss Mary Lonkert, a member of a most highly 
respected and prominent pioneer family of Wash- 
ington, and of this union ohildren have been bom 
as follows: Minnie, George, Essie, Charles and 
Kate. In 1865 he began business for himself in 
the room now occupied by Brown's dry-goods 
store. Under his efficient management his business 
steadily increased, and in 1873 he erected in Main 
street, opposite the courthouse, one of the finest 
blocks in Washington, which he immediately 
stocked with an extensive line of dry goods, car- 
pets, clothing and merchant tailoring supplies. 

His business soon became the most extensive in the 
6 



place, and his annual receipts averaged from $125 
000 to $140,000. At the time of his death, which 
occurred October 27, 1892, he was the only citizen 
in Washington paying a license of over $100 a 
year, for general business. But, extensive as was 
his business interests in the line enumerated, his 
entire time was by no means absorbed, and he al- 
ways found opportunity and disposition to take an 
active part in every enterprise tending to the 
material improvement or advancement of the social 
and business interests of his town and county. 

The bare probability that beneath the fertile 
tields of Washington county lay stores of buried 
wealth in the shape of oil and gas, was sufficient 
to arouse to activity in Mr. Caldwell his innate 
spirit of leadership, and he became the pioneer in 
these industries, which have in their development 
so largely contributed to the prosperity of western 
Pennsylvania. He drilled quite extensively for oil, 
and ten producing wells in Buffalo township re- 
paid his enterprise and investment. In 1891 he 
organized The Leader Refining Company, of which 
he was the owner, and built on the B. & O. R. R. , 
seven miles west of Washington, a refinery with a 
capacity of 400 barrels per day. At the organiza- 
tion of the People's Light & Heat Company — a 
corporation which supplies the boroughs of Wash 
ington with those two essentials — he became the 
principal stockholder, and was elected its presi- 
dent, a position he held during the rest of his life. 
At the time of his death he was a director of the 
Washington County Fire Insurance Company. 

Mr. Caldwell was a man of wonderful push, 
pluck and perseverance, and it may be truly said 
that no man did more to advance the interests of 
Washington than did he. And these very quali- 
ties, which contributed so largely to the advantage 
of the community at large, brought to him his own 
almost unparalleled success, and made him one of 
the wealthiest men of Washington county. One 
of his especially distinguishing characteristics was 
his love of home. His wife and children were to 
him the dearest objects in life, and his happiest 
moments were those spent by his own fireside sur- 
rounded by his loved ones. His residence on East 
Wheeling street, Washington, one of the hand 
somest in the borough, improved and beautified to 
the highest degree, and surrounded by its broad 
and well-kept lawn, bespeaks the refined and cult- 
ured taste of the once owner. An ardent lover 
of nature, passionately fond of flowers, Mr. Cald- 
well found great comfort in the study of these 
"angels of the grass," and owned the largest pri- 
vate conservatory in western Pennsylvania. Gifted 
with an inquiring mind, he loved to investigate the 
mysteries of nature, of life and death. Sur- 
rounded by the conflict of creeds and theories, in 
the twilight of uncertainty he set his face toward 
the light and sought for Truth, and firmly stood 



HIS 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



by ami fearlessly proclaimed the result of his in- 
vestigation. While many of his friends and neigh- 
bors differed from him in religious opinions ad- 
vanced, not mm was found to <|iiestion the sterling 
honesty of the advocate. Possessing a nature 
sympathetic, generous and just, he was moved by 
the sufferings or misfortunes of his fellow man; the 
open hand of deserving charity found him ever a 
willing giver, and he was just to render unto every 
man his due. While interested in all questions of 
government and State, and a stanch Democrat in 
sentiment, yet he preferred the quiet of home life 
as a private citizen, to the turmoil of political 
struggles. 

On October 27, 1892, after weeks of wasting ill- 
ness, Mr. Caldwell passed from earth, and his re- 
mains now rest on the hillside in the beautiful 
Washington cemetery, which overlooks the town 
where most of his busy life was spent. Years and 
generations yet to be will feel the influence of the 
life of A. B. Caldwell. 



K. E. F. DODD. Among the many intiu- 



Dential and enterprising families of Wash- 
/ ington county, the name of Dodd stands 
among the oldest and must esteemed of the 
early pioneer settlers, and of that honored name 
our subject is a worthy representative. 

Daniel Dodd (1) was born in England, and in 
li'i 12 immigrated to America, locating in Branford, 
Conn., where his son Stephen (1) was born. The 
latter married in Connecticut, and reared a family 
of whom a sou Daniel (2) also married and passed 
his life in that State. Of Daniel's (2) sons are 
recorded the names of Stephen (2), Daniel and 
John. Stephen Dodd (2) was born April 15,1703, 
in Guilford, Conn., and in early life moved to 
New Jersey, first locating in Newark, and finally 
settling in Mendham, same State. Of his chil- 
dren, two sons Thaddeus and Daniel — became 
pioneer settlers of Washington county, Penn. 

Thaddeus Dodd was born March 7, 1740, in 
Newark, N. J. His parents were " poor in worldly 
goods, but rich in faith,'' and his boyhood was 
passed under the influence of the most devout 
Christians, and in the midst of religious revivals. 
In early youth lie evinced a strong inclination for 
study, and passed much of his time in delving into 
the mysteries of mathematics (in which he espe- 
cially excelled) and the ancient languages. On 
Inly is, 1764, he was converted during the prog- 
ress nf a great revival, and this important event 
molded and directed his future life, which was to 
be so full of service for the Master. He entered 
Princeton College in his thirty-first year, and 
graduated in tin- autumn of 1773. The following 
is quoted from the sketch given at the centennial 
celebration of the Ten-Mile Churches, August 28, 
187'J, by Rev. James Allison, D. D. 



Sunn after graduation lie went to Newark, N. .)., 
» here lie married Miss Phoebe Baldwin, and entered upon 

tlir study of theology, under the direction of Rev. Dr. 

McWhorter. One year later he removed to Morristown, 
N. J., and continued the same line of study under Rev. 
Dr. Johns, who had been his first Instructor in Latin. He 
was licensed to preach the Gospel by the Presbyterj "I 

New York, Imt there is no existing record of tin" date at 
which this took place. Through the winter of 1776 77, 
he suffered from a severe attack of inflammatory rheu 
matism; but in the month of March, though still feeble, 
lie Btarted upon a journey to the West. After preaching 
in parts of Virginia and Maryland, he crossed the mount 
ains, visited the settlements on George's creek, Mudd\ 
crick ami Dunlap's creek, and then came to Ten-Mile, 
lie remained here until August, preaching in private 
houses, in the woods, ami in Lindley's and Bell's forts. 
After his return to the East he was ordained by the Pres 
bytery of New York as an evangelist, on some daj of the 
week preceding Sabbath, October 19, 1777, as there is a 
record of baptisms by him on that Sabbath, in which it is 
said that this was the first Sabbath after his ordination. 
Shortly after this he left New Jersey with ids wile and 
daughter (three years old), ami a son still younger, ac- 
companied by two brothers and their families. On the 
10th of November they arrived at Patterson's creek, 
Hampshire Co., Va., and after hearing of the formidable 
attack which had been made by the Indians upon Wheel- 
ing, ami the consequent alarm and confusion prevailing 
in all the frontier settlements, it was thought best nol I.. 
proceed any farther at that time. Hut in a few days he 
crossed the mountains alone, came to Ten-Mile, preached 
in the I'nrts, ami baptized the children. In a short time 
lie returned to his family, and it is not known that he \ is 
ited this place again until he brought his famih and 
settled down permanently in the tall of 1779 — one hun- 
dred years ago. In the interval he had not been idle, 
but had been busily engaged in preaching the Gospel in 
the adjacent parts of Virginia and Maryland, where no 
churches seem to have been then organized, at least there 
were no church buildings, as all the services were held 
at private houses or in the woods, lie was entreated to 
remain, and inducements apparently stronger than an\ 
held out by Ten-Mile were brought to bear upon him, 
but he had given his pledge to the people hen — his heart 
was here and hither he came in September, 1779. 

In personal appearance Thaddeus Dodd is thus 
described: "A pale, slender youth with jet black 
hair, dark, piercing eyes, and a countenance highly 
expressive of mental power and activity." After 
coming to Washington county, Mr. Dodd first re- 
sided aear the Lindleys, in what is now Morris 
township, and on November 22, 1786, he took a 
patent for 400 acres of land in Amwell township, 
called "Fame" (which was situated on the middle 
fork of Ten-Mile creek), and there made his per 
maneiit home. To Thaddeus and Phcebe (Bald 
win) Dodd were born two sons and three daughters: 
Cephas, Stephen, Hannah, Sarah and Mary. The 
Rev. Thaddeus Dodd was an exceptionally cultured 
and scholarly man. His early years of prepara- 
tion and association with the most cultivated minds 
of the day, combined with his natural gifts and 
experience as a teacher, especially fitted him for 
his brilliant and useful career as a leading edu- 
cator and minister of the ( iospel. Always a student 
he was familiar with the languages, and excelled in 
the natural sciences and mathematics. Deeply 



WASHiNGtOti COUNTY. 



109 



realizing the need of a broader education for young 
men in the West, Dr. Dodd opened a classical and 
mathematical school in 1782, especially designed 
to prepare young men for the ministry. This 
school continued three years and a half. In 1 ilSH 
he became principal of an academy ut Washing- 
ton, Peun., which position he filled fifteen months 
On August lf>, 1871, the first Presbyterian Church 
was organized, and in 1785 the first church build 
ing was erected, but just as the Society was be- 
ginning to grow, and success was crowning his 
efforts, the heroic minister yielded to the disease 
(consumption) that had so long been weakening 
his system, and on May 20, 1793, passed to his re 
ward. His funeral sermon was preached from 
Revelations xiv: 13, by Rev. Dr. McMillan, his as- 
sociate pioneer miuister of Washington county, 
and he was followed to the grave by a grateful 
and sorrowing people, for a "Prince in Israel had 
fallen." 

Cephas Dodd was born October 12, 1789, on his 
father's farm in Amwell township, Washington 
Co., Penn., and studied at home during his earlier 
years, receiving his later education at Canonsburg, 
where he early evinced the ability which distin- 
guished his later life. While a student he spent 
his leisure time in the study of medicine, and at 
the time of his graduation had so thorough a 
knowledge of the science, that he was often con- 
sulted professionally. After leaving college, he 
entered the ministry, in which he zealously labored 
many years, but when his skill as a physician be 
came known, his services were sooften needed that he 
continued to practice both professions till his death. 
He preached his last sermon and visited a distant 
patient two days before yielding to his last sick- 
ness. He practiced both in Greene and Washing- 
ton counties. In 1805 Cephas Dodd was united 
in marriage with Ruth Flenniken, of Greene county, 
Penn., and the young people immediately settled 
in Amwell township, this county, where the follow- 
ing children were born: Jane (Mrs. Dr. .Simon 
Strouss), Sarah (Mrs. John McFarland), Thad- 
deus, Cornelia, Eliza, Hannah, James, Cephas and 
Elias F. In reference to the personal qualities 
of Cephas Dodd, we quote the following from*the 
address of Rev. Allison: "This sou (Cephas) is 
said to have possessed a clear and strong mind, 
enriched by manly culture and varied learning; 
remarkable gentleness anil amiability of temper; 
great practical wisdom; a tranquil and steady 
piety; high devotion and loyalty as a friend; in 
short, a combination of qualities, a character com- 
plete, harmonious and symmetrical in an unusual 
degree." Concerning his work as a pastor, Rev. 
Allison says: "He was the second successor of his 
honored father, and was installed as pastor of the 
Ten-Mile congregations in Amity, with, as Dr. 
Wines declares, ' the open canopy of heaven for a 



temple, the snow for a carpet, and the wind whis- 
tling through the leafless branches of the trees as 
an accompaniment to the solemn music, as it 
pealed forth from a choir of hundreds of voices. ' " 
In politics Cephas Dodd was an adherent of the 
Whig party. He died January 10, 1858. 

Dr. Elias F. Dodd, the subject proper of this 
sketch, was born December 1, 1823, in Amwell 
township, Washington Co., Penn., and passed his 
youth on the home farm until the year 1841, then 
he entered Washington College, from which he 
was graduated in 1848. After his graduation he 
at once began the study of medicine, commencing 
to practice in 1853, and has since followed the 
profession, being now regarded as one of the had 
ing physicians of the county. On May 12, 1853, 
he was married to Margaret, daughter of Eli Brad 
ford, of Greene county, Penn., and immediately 
afterward settled in Franklin township, this 
county. In 1867 he moved to his present resi- 
dence. Dr. and Mrs. Dodd have had a family of 
four children: Cephas T., Lillie J. (deceased in 
infancy), Elias F. (also deceased in infancy), and 
Samuel B. (on the home farm). Of these Samuel 
B. married Mary O, daughter of David Clark, of 
Buffalo township, and two children have been born 
to them: Lizzie ami William; Samuel I!, was a 
school director. Dr. Elias F. Dodd has always 
been a leading member of the Whig ami Repub- 
lican parties, and for the past two years has been 
a justice of the peace. 

Dr. Cephas T. Dodd was born April 2f, 1854, 
on the home farm in Franklin township, Washing 
ton Co., Penn., and received his general education 
at Washington and Jefferson College. He secured 
his medical training at Cleveland Medical College, 
from which he was graduated in March, 1881, and 
he then immediately began practice as a physician. 
On June 30, 1881, he was united in marriage with 
Ella C, daughter of James W. Patterson, and two 
sons have come to cheer their home: John A., 
born September 7, 1882, and Frank O, born July 
23, 1888. In politics Dr. Cephas T. Dodd is a 
Republican. In 1877 he was clerk in the treasury 
office at Washington, and traveled for four mouths 
over the county under Col. A. L. Hawkins, county 
treasurer, collecting taxes; in 1879 he was chief 
clerk in the county treasurer's office under S. C. 
McGregor, county treasurer. 



I|AMES W. PATTERSON, in his day a lead- 
ing citizen of Franklin township, was born 
ft II May 1, 1815, in Washington county, Penn. 
*-^ He attended the subscription schools of the 
home neighborhood, and early evinced an 
unusual aptitude for business. He began life with 
but little financial aid, and November 1, 1836, was 
married to Caroline Van Kirk, who was born 



110 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



July 1, 1817. Some time after their marriage the 
young couple moved to Athens county, Ohio, where 
they lived two years, and then came to Franklin 
township, Washington county, where he purchased 
an improved farm, upon which he erected tine 
buildings, and was extensively engaged in agricult- 
ural pursuits, becoming a very prosperous busi- 
ness man, and dealing in stock and wool. Mrs. 
Patterson died March 11, 1862, leaving a family 
of eleven daughters, namely: Parmelia, wife of 
John N. Andrews; Mahala A., deceased; Sarah, 
wife of Hiram McOlain; Evaline, married to Oliver 
L. Hart; Minerva, deceased wife of C, M. Minton; 
Mary P., wife of Joseph Hunter; Miranda V., 
married to B. C. Lindley; Emma, deceased; Ella 
0., wife of Dr. Cephas T. Dodd; Caroline L., wife 
of Joseph M. Clark, and Martha A. , married to 
Clarence Manon. For his second wife Mr. Patter- 
son was married, on August 15, 1S65, to Mrs. Ann 
Elliott, who died October 20, 1885, having been 
preceded to the grave by her husband, May 24, 
1884. Mr. Patterson was a member of the Demo 
cratic party. He was actively interested in relig- 
ious matters, and contributed liberally to the sup 
port of the Master's cause; he was an elder of the 
Cumberland Presbyterian Church at the time of 
his death. 



J I AMES Q. McGIFFIN. Nathaniel McGiffin, 
great-grandfather of this gentleman, was a 
) native of Scotland, from whence he removed 
to Ireland in his youth, with his father's 
family. He came to America prior to the Revolu- 
tionary war. entered the Continental army, in 
which he served, participating in the battles of 
Brandywine and Trenton, and experiencing the 
memorable winter of Valley Forge. He served for 
a time under Gen. La Fayette and received an 
honorable discharge at the end of the war, signed 
by Gen. Washington. By occupation he was a 
farmer, and about the year 1781 he made a settle 
ment on Ten Mile creek, Amwell township, this 
county, where he died. He had two children, 
viz.: one daughter, Elizabeth, married to Jacob 
Cook, a farmer, who died in Texas. 

His only son, Thomas, was born in Amwell 
township, in this county, January 1, 1784, and re- 
ceived his education at Canonsburg Academy, 
studied law with Parker Campbell, Esq., and was 
admitted to the bar of Washington county, in 
February, 1807. He commenced practice at Vin- 
cennes. Ind., and was also admitted at St. Louis, 
to practice in the then Territory of Louisiana. 
In 1809 he roturned to Washington county, and 
during the remainder of his life continued in prac- 
tice in the chief borough and in adjoining counties, 
a portion of the time in partnership with John L. 
Gow. Sr. At the same time he carried on his 



farm in Amwell township, which he stocked with 
thoroughbred cattle from Henry Clay's farm in 
Kentucky. He enjoyed the friendship of Mr. 
Clay, with whom he interchanged letters expres 
sive of mutual esteem and confidence. He was 
interested in politics, and in 1 836 represented the 
county in the Legislature. Thomas McGitlin was 
one of the contractors who built the Cumberland 
road, also known as the "National Road,'' and had 
large contracts in Washington and Fayette 
counties, Penn., and in Virginia; associated with 
him in the enterprise were Maj. John H. Ewing, 
Judge Baird and others. He was married to 
Maria Norton, a native of Connecticut. To Thomas 
and Maria (Norton) McGiffin were born children 
as follows: Nathaniel (deceased), who was a mer- 
chant in Knox county, Ohio; Thomas, Jr. (de- 
ceased in 1890, at the age of seventy years), was 
an attorney in Washington, Penn., having been 
admitted to the bar in 1S41 (in 1865 he removed 
to Fairfield, Iowa, where he carried on farming); 
George Wallace (died in Washington, Penn., 
when young); Philo Norton (died in boyhood); 
Norton, the father of the subject of this sketch; 
Maria, married to Thomas Boyd, died in Connells- 
ville, Penn.; Julia, married to Rev. William Ham 
ilton, for years a missionary among the Indians, 
is deceased ; Margaret, married to Rev. W. B. Mc- 
Ilvaiue, formerly of East End, Pittsburgh, late of 
Peoria, 111. (deceased), died at the latter place in 
February, 1891 ; Ann, unmarried, lives in Peoria. 
The father of this family was an able lawyer, a 
genial wholesouled man, and enjoyed the esteem 
of a wide circle of friends. 

Norton McGiffin, son of Thomas, Sr. , was born 
January 23, 1824, in Washington, Washington Co., 
Penn., and received his primary education at the 
public schools of the borough, after which he at 
tended Washington College, from which he grad 
uated in 1841. Subsequently, for a period of two 
years, he read law with Nathaniel Ewing, Esq., at 
Uniontown, Penn., and then, the Mexican war 
having broken out, he enlisted in the First Regi 
ment Pennsylvania Volunteers, Company K (this 
company was known as the " Du Quesne Greys"), 
at Pittsburgh, and served throughout the entire 
struggle, participating in the siege of Pueblo, the 
storming of the Castle of Chapultepec, City of 
Mexico and Vera Cruz. His company was sur 
rounded in the streets of Pueblo, and the greater 
part of it was cut to pieces, but he escaped serious 
injury. At the close of this war he was commis- 
sioned colonel by the governor of Pennsylvania. 
On his return to the pursuits of peace he was 
elected treasurer of Washington county, serving 
from 1849 to 1852, after which he farmed until he 
was elected sheriff, an incumbency he tilled from 
1859 to L861. In response to President Lincoln's 
call for 75,0011 volunteers in the war of the Rebel 



IT. I SHING TON COUNTY. 



Ill 



lion, he led the first company that left Washing- 
tun for the front, known as the "Washington In- 
visibles. " This company left Washington April 
20, 18*31, and in Pittsburgh was incorporated as 
Company E, in the Twelfth P. V. I., upon the or- 
ganization of which Norton McGiffin was elected 
lieutenant colonel. At the close of the three 
mouths' service Col. McGiffin was commissioned 
lieutenant colonel of the Eighty fifth P. V. I., 
Col. J. B. Howell, under Gen. McClellan, serving 
in the Peninsular campaign, during which he was 
stricken with disease from which he still suffers. 
Being disabled, he resigned his commission and 
returned to Washington, a mere shadow of his 
former self. About the close of the war he went 
to Ohio county, W. Va., where he resided until 
1870, then returned to Washington county. In 
1880 he was elected to the House of Represents 
lives, serving until 1882, in which year he re- 
moved to Ida Grove, Ida Co., Iowa, where he 
engaged in farming. In 1886 he proceeded to 
Fair Haven, Cayuga Co., N. Y.,and in 1890 was 
appointed U. S. Consul at Port Rowan, on Lake 
Erie. Ontario (Canada), witli headquarters at Sim- 
coe, a few miles further north. On March 1 3, 
1892, he was appointed TJ. S. Consid at Port Hope, 
Canada, where he now resides. In 1853 he wan 
married to Miss Sarah Houston, daughter of Janus 
Quail, one of the early settlers of North Strabane 
township, having come about the year 1816; of 
his children, William lives near Topeka. Kans. ; 
Alexander in Ida Grove, Iowa, and a daughter 
(Mrs. George F. McCombs) in Allegheny. Penn. To 
Col. and Mrs. McGiffin were born six children, five 
of whom are yet living, viz. : Sallie Quail, widow 
of G. W. Henshaw, of Virginia; Thomas, living 
at Honolulu, Sandwich Islands; James Quail, sub- 
ject proper of these lines; Philo Norton, superin 
tendentof the " Imperial Chinese Naval College" 
at We Hai Wei, China (he is a graduate of the 
U. S. Naval Academy, at Annapolis, Md., and for 
a time was in the II. S. Navy); and Nathaniel, at 
present a student at Hamilton College, New York. 
James Quail McGiffin was born September 21, 
1856, in Amwell township, this county, at the 
common schools of which place he received his 
primary education. Afterward he entered Wash- 
ington and Jefferson College, but while in the 
sophomore year he left for California, where he 
remained four years. On his return to Wash- 
ington, in 1878, he read law with John W. Donnan, 
Esq., and was admitted to the bar of Washington 
county, January 9, 1882. In the spring of the 
same year he moved to Ida Grove, Iowa, where he 
remained, engaged in the practice of law till March 
1891, when he returned to Washington and re- 
sumed the practice of his profession. In Decem- 
ber, 1884, Mr. McGiffin was married to Miss Carrie, 
daughter of Noble Ruggles, of Manchester, Iowa, 



and twochildren have come to brighten their home: 
Norton and Helen Elizabeth. Politically our sub- 
ject is a Republican. 



JfAMESK. MITCHELL, one of the representa- 
tive business citizens of Washington, and a 
| typical self made man, is a native of Mis 
souri, born in Pike county August 1 ">, 1853 
His grandfather, Alexander Mitchell, in an early 
day made a settlement, in company with his 
brother Andrew, at Short Creek, W. Va.. on a 
farm. Alexander married a Miss Jacobs, a native 
of near Welisburg, that State, and children as fol 
lows were born to them: Isaac, who died in St. 
Louis, Mo. (one of his sons, John, is clerk of the 
county courts at Wheeling, W. Va. ;two other sons 
— Zachariah, an attoi nev. and Samuel, a merchant — 
live in St. Louis, Mo. I; Samuel, who died in 
Wheeling, W. Va. ; Jane, who died December 9, 
1892, and Zachariah, the father of James K. 

Zachariah Mitchell was born in 1816, in Wesf 
Virginia, where he was reared to agricultural pur- 
suits, which he followed for some time; later he 
became a contractor in Texas, where he was living 
at the time of the breaking out of the Rebellion; 
he served in the Confederate army as a commis 
sary. The war crippled him financially, and at 
the close of the struggle he went to Lexington, 
Mo , where he died in 1882. He was a Democrat 
in his political predilections, and at one time was 
assessor for Clay county. In Wheeling, W. Va. , 
he was married to Miss Ann, daughter of George 
Baird, who was a son of Absalom Baird, of Revolu- 
tionary fame, and the children born to this union 
were George B. ; Alexander, treasurer of the 
Mutual Savings Bank of Wheeling; Martha B. ; 
Isaac W., and James K. The mother died in 
Missouri August 28, 1853, when the subject of 
these lines was two weeks old. 

Until the age of five years James K. Mitchell 
was reared at the home of his uncle, Isaac Mitchell, 
in St. Louis, Mo., and was then brought by the 
family to Washington, this county. Here he at- 
tended the public schools, and at the age of four- 
teen commenced to work in the Baird grocery as 
clerk, remaining there till 1882, a period of fifteen 
years. In that year he bought an interest in the 
Budke Manufacturing Company, manufacturers of 
powder cans, at Canonsburg, where the sheet-iron 
mills, in which his brother George B. Mitchell had 
an interest, were looated. The latter was also con- 
nected with the Riverside Iron Works of Wheel- 
ing; he died in March, 1890, leaving a widow and 
two children, now living in Washington. In 1884 
our subject sold out his interest in the powder can 
industry to the Canonsburg Iron Company, and on 
January 1, 1885, embarked in the grain and agri- 
cultural implement business in Washington 



112 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



borough, in partnership with -I. A. Howden, their 

place of business being situated where the B. & O. 
R. R. station now stands. Tn this they continued 
till the following January, when Mr. Mitchell 
bought out his partner's interest, and his uncle, 
A. T. Baird, became associated with him, which 
arrangement remained in force until the death of 
Mr. Baird in March, 1887. In January, 1888, 
Mr. John W. Seaman became partner with Mr. 
Mitchell in the general hardware and house fur- 
nishing business, under the tirm name of Mitchell 
& Seaman. This partnership continued until May, 
1892, when Mr. Mitchell sold his interest to Mr. 
J. W. Seaman and rented the room on the corner 
of Main and Wheeling streets, from W. C. Bryson, 
and organized " The Dime Savings Institution of 
Washington," which was opened for business Jan- 
uary 1, 1893, with Dr. Thomas McKennan aspres 
ident and Mr. Mitchell as cashier. 

On July 14, 1885, Mr. Mitchell was united in 
marriage with Miss Frances J., daughter of Joseph 
F. Osborne, of Clarksburg, W. Va., whose family 
were originally of Fayette county, Penn., whence 
they moved to West Virginia. To this union have 
been born three children: Osborne, Baird and 
Susan Baird. Politically Mr. Mitchell is a Repub- 
lican, and has served his borough as treasurer. 
For the past six years he has been treasurer of the 
Western Pennsylvania Agricultural Association, 
and is at present treasurer of the Mutual Building 
and Loan Association. He has been a member of 
the First Presbyterian Church of Washington since 
1870, and in 1884 was elected an elder in same. 



f/OHN A. BEST. John Best, Sr., was born in 

Benburb, County Armagh, Ireland, in May, 

frlf 1780. From his early training and constant 

-^ reading in the land of his nativity, he learned 
much of the United States, and tier progress. 

He and his wife landed in Philadelphia in 1811, 
an 1 thence journeyed over the Alleghany mount- 
ains in a wagon to Pittsburgh, and hearing of 
Washington county as a great wool-growing sec 
tion, he concluded that the county seat, or its 
neighborhood, would be a proper place to settle in, 
and to that place he went, not by stage or railroad, 
but by wagon, then the only mode of conveyance. 
He purchased the property on the northeast corner 
of Beau and Franklin streets, and there erected 
and engaged in the wool-carding business, where 
the first stationary engine in Washington county 
was placed and owned by him. He remained as a 
prominent citizen of Washington till 1850, when 
his two sons, John and William, purchased farms 
near New Concord, Guernsey Co., Ohio. His 
wife being dead, and his daughter married to James 
S. Biishfield, he concluded to leave his adopted 
town and go and live with them, John Best, Sr., 



while still a resident of Washington was one of the 
committee to receive Gen. La Fayette on his last 
visit to this country when he was on his way over 
the old National pike to visit George Washington 
at Mount Vernon. John Best, Sr., was a Mason, 
having entered that order in Ireland, in Lodge 
No. 722, whicli Lodge was orjganized in 1788, his 
own father having procured its charter from 
the Grand Lodge of Ireland, and the meetings 
were held in his house. He died in 1878 at the 
advanced age of ninety-eight years, the oldest 
Mason at that time in the country. 

John Best had four sons to survive him: Samuel. 
James, John and William. Samuel married Miss 
Isabella Dickson, to whom were born Isabella D., 
wife of John Woodcock, of McCune, Kans. ; Ellen 
R., wife of R. A. Anderson, of Claysville, Penn., 
and John A. Samuel Best died in New Orleans 
of yellow fever, and his wife died in Buffalo town- 
ship, Washington county, in 1881, at the age of 
seventy-five years, a devout Christian, and a loving 
and beloved mother, esteemed by all who knew her. 

John A. Best, the son of Samuel and Isabella 
Best, was born in Washington, May 20, 1838. In 
1853 he was a newsboy on the Examiner, a 
weekly newspaper owned at that time by Thomas 
Grayson, shortly after which he learned the print- 
ing trade on the same paper. He worked at his 
trade on the Pittsburgh Dispatch, for some time, 
and then went to New York. After being there 
some time he returned to Pittsburgh and started a 
steam job printing office, and branched out into the 
mercantile business, which he has been in ever since. 
On Thanksgiving Day, 1 860, he moved to Washing- 
ton, and opened a general store and printing office 
on the corner of Main and Chestnut streets, where 
the Washington Observer was first printed by him 
under the editorship of Horace Durant. During 
the financial panic of 1873 he failed and lost every- 
thing, leaving him in debt, but he has since paid 
every cent that he ever owed, and now owns one 
of the largest businesses in the county, occupy- 
ing No. 73, 75, 77, 79, 81, 83 and 85 North Main 
street, and constantly adding to it; he is not only 
progressive but aggressive, and that is the secret of 
his success. 

On September3, 1803, Mr. Best married Jennie 
D., daughter of John E. Roberts, of Hartford, 
Conn. . and there were born to them seven children. 
five of whom are still living: GrattanG, Nellie 
M. , Albion E., Jennie I. and John A., Jr. Mis 
Best is an active worker in the W. C. T. U., of 
which she is president, and devotes a great deal of 
time to local charity and doing good. In 1879 
Mr. Best, with some other public-spirited citi- 
zens, built the Washington Lead Works, which 
were destroyed by fire in 1883. He is a believer 
in Divine healing, and is president of the board of 
directors of Bethany Home, No. 113 Centre 



ir. 1 SUING TON COUNTY. 



113 



avenue, Pittsburgh, an institution for the educa- 
tiou of young men for the ministry and mission- 
ary field. 

(Jrattan G., son of John A. and Jennie D. Best, 
was born in Pittsburgh, Penn., June 0, 1864. 
He came in 1869 with his father to Washington, 
where he was educated, spending two years at 
Trinity Hall, being the first scholar enrolled in 
that institution, and then went to Washington and 
Jefferson College, class of 1885. He studied 
bookkeeping at Duff's Commercial College, Pitts 
burgh, and has ever since been in business with 
his father. Mr. Best is a member of the Masonic 
Fraternity, being past eminent commander of Jac 
ques de Molay Commandery No. 3, the second 
oldest Commandery in the State, and is a thirty- 
second degree Mason. At the time Mr. Best was 
eminent commander he was the youngest command 
er in the State. On February 25, 1886, Grattan 
G. Best married Carrie, daughter of Jonathan 
Brownlee, of Bulfalo township. Mr. Best is a 
practical printer, and now publishes the Weekly 
Financial Economist. He says he does not re 
member the time when he could not set a stick of 
type, as he was raised in a printing office. He is 
very much interested in Sabbath school work, and 
is superintendent of Jefferson Avenue M- E. 
Church Sunday school, also president of the Ep 
worth League. 



FREDERICK WHITTLESEY, M. D. , for 
nearly forty years a resident of the borough 
of Washington, and one of the leading 
physicians of the county, is a native of 
Ohio, having been born in Atwater township, Port- 
age county, March 6, 1830. 

The family name is one of prominence in the 
Buckeye State. John H. Whittlesey, grandfather 
of the Doctor, was the fifth person to settle in At- 
water township, Portage Co., Ohio, making a home 
for himself and family in the wild woods. He 
was a soldier in the war of 1812. Elisha Whit- 
tlesey, who was member of Congress from 1S23 to 
1839, and first comptroller of the IT. S. Treasury 
for nearly thirty years, and William Whittlesey, 
who represented his district in the Ohio State 
Senate in 1839, and was eleoted to Congress in 
1848, and also Charles Whittlesey, the State geolo- 
gist of Ohio, were near relatives. Friend Whit- 
tlesey, cousin of our subjeot, is a niember of the 
present Ohio Legislature. 

John B. Whittlesey, father of Dr. F. Whittlesey, 
now aged eighty-seven years, is still living in Ohio, 
where he has followed farming. He was married, 
in 1828, to Emeline Mix, of Atwater, who died in 
Portage county, Ohio, in 1866, leaving four chil- 
dren: Frederick (subject), Mary (now deceased). 
Emma (wife of Rev. Wilson, of Canton, Ohio), and 



Charles (killed on the railroad, in 1867, when 
thirty-five years of age); Julia Helen, the third 
child in order of birth, died in infancy. 

Frederick Whittlesey received his literary edu- 
cation entirely in his native county, where he also 
read medicine, finishing his studies in 1855. He 
then commenced the practice of his profession in 
Portage county, but in 1856 he came to this 
county, taking up his residence in Washington, 
where he has since remained and built up an envi 
able practice which extends to all portions of the 
State, his specialty being chronic diseases. In 
1851 the Doctor was united in marriage with Miss 
Laura L. Teel, of Alliance, Ohio, who died in 1853, 
leaving one child, Josephine, wife of Amos Benja 
min, of Portage county, Ohio. In 1855 the Doc 
tor was married, the second time, to Mrs. Hannah 
Chittendon, of Youngstown, Ohio, who died June 
3, 1892. Socially the Doctor is a member of the 
Masonic Fraternity, in which he held the position 
of D. D. G. M. for ten successive years, and is the 
present treasurer of the Chapter and Commandery. 
In politics he is a Republican. The Doctor is not 
a member of any church. His religious views are 
inclined to be agnostic, and while very decided in 
his opinions, lie is not in the habit of thrusting his 
ideas upon others whom he has reason to believe 
differ with him. He believes that enlightened 
human reason, untrammeled by prejudice, is the 
highest tribunal known to man, and that every ra- 
tional being has a right to decide for himself all 
questions pertaining to his present or future wel- 
fare. 



GOL L. M. MARSH, one of the representative 
business men of Washington, was born June 
24, 1S24, at Orange, Essex Co., N. J., the 
eldest child of Abraham R. and Sarah 
(Munn) Marsh, both natives of New Jersey. 

Abraham R. Marsh, father of our subject, was 
born July 8, 1800, in Rahway, N. J., where he 
was reared and educated. He learned the trade of 
shoemaker, which he followed in connection with 
storekeeping for many years, and he lived to a 
patriarchal age, dying in 1890, when ninety years 
and two days old. He had married Sarah, daugh- 
ter of David Munn, of New Jersey, and their chil- 
dren were L. M., David, Stephen, Harriet, George, 
Abraham, Charles, and Henry and Mary (twins). 
The mother died in Huron county, Ohio, in 1800, 
aged fifty-eight years. The father of this family 
was a Whig in politics, but a Republican as soon as 
that party was organized. In religious connection 
he was an old-time member of the Presbyterian 
Church, in which for sixty years he was an elder. 
Col. L. M. Marsh passed his boyhood in his 
native county until he was thirteen years old, when 
he accompanied his parents to Coshocton, Ohio, 



114 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



the family residing there two years, then moved to 
Huron county, Ohio, where they mude their home 
some years. Our subject remained in Coshocton 
county until he was twenty-one years old, and then 
proceeded to Marietta, Ohio, where he worked at 
the tailor's trade, which he had learned in Coshoc- 
ton county. From Marietta he moved to West 
Virginia, remaining there until 1862, in which 
year ho joined Company E, Tenth W. Va. Volun- 
teer Infant iv, as captain, whicli regiment was as- 
signed to the army of the Potomac, and did guard 
duty throughout the early part of their service. 
At the battle of Kernstown he was wounded in the 
foot, and was left on the field, where he was capt 
ured by the Confederates, who took him to Libby 
prison. After two months' confinement there he 
was paroled, and iu six mouths thereafter was ex 
changed. During the six months he was on duty 
as member of a Court Martial at Baltimore, Mil. 
He rejoined his regiment, and shortly after was 
mustered out with the command, our subject being 
then lieutenant-colonel. Col. Marsh then came to 
Washington, Penn., where he was for the next two 
years engaged as a bookkeeper, and then (1870) 
received the appointment as secretary and treasurer 
for the Washington County Fire Insurance Com- 
pany, which position he still tills. He also does a 
large real-estate business, his son, Addison C. , being 
associated with him, the style of the firm being L. 
M. Marsh & Son. On January 14, 1850, Col. 
Marsh was married to Louisa, daughter of Asa 
McCollum, of Washington county, and two chil- 
dren were born to them, viz.: Ella (Mrs. William 
S. Parker) and Addison C. Our subject is a mem 
ber of the M. E. Church; in politics he was 
originally a Whig, and since the organization of 
the party has been a Republican. 



AMUEL M. CHARLTON, proprietor of the 

well-known and long established confection- 
J 1 ery business iu Washington, comes of Ger 

man ancestry. His grandfather, Robert 
Charlton, a native of Germany, came to Washing 
ton county in 1813, and died at, Cook's Place, 
Chartiers township, iu 1828, his wife (who had ac- 
companied him from the Fatherland) dying some 
time later. They had a family of seven children, 
of whom only one, James, survives — his home being 
in Iowa. 

Samuel Charlton, eldest son of Robert, was born 
in Germany and came with his parents to this 
country and county. By occupation he was a 
wagoner, or teamster, on the National Pike be- 
tween Washington, Penn., and Baltimore, Md. 
He was twice married: first time to Miss Shipe, 
who died leaving two children: Robert (now de- 
ceased) and Frank (in Manuington, W. Va.). His 
second marriage was with Mrs Elizabeth Morrow, 



net- Hewey, a lady of Irish parentage, and they 
had a family of live children, as follows: John H. , 
in Washington; Mary, wife of Fred Hood, of 
Washington; Susan, also in that borough: l{e 
becca, deceased wife of Henry Llewellen (she died 
in 1874), and Samuel M., subject of sketch. The 
parents soon after marriage came to live in the 
borough of Washington, where the father died 
about the year 1S58, at the age of sixty years, the 
mother in 1S75, aged sixty five. 

Samuel M. Charlton was born in Washington. 
this county, in 1847, and received a liberal edu- 
cation iu the schools of the borough. In boy- 
hood he learned the trade of tobacconist with 
Thomas McKean, and followed same for fourteen 
years in his native town. In 1870 he opened a 
confectionery store on Main street, and in 1889 
removed it to East Maiden street, where he has 
since continued. In 1871 Mr. Charlton was united 
in marriage with Eliza, daughter of William Hays, 
of Way nesburg, Greene Co. , Penn. Her parents 
at one time lived iu Washington county, whence 
tliey moved to Greene county, where her widowed 
mother now lives; her father at one time was clerk 
of the courts of Washington county. To Mr. and 
Mrs. Hays were born children as follows: James, 
John, Eliza, Catherine, Margaret, George, Ella and 
Matilda. Six children have been born to Mr. and 
Mrs. Samuel M. Charlton, viz.: Sarah Hedge and 
William Hays (both deceased), and Alfred W., 
Nannie E., Marion Elizabeth and Sabina Pearl, 
all living at home. Politically Mr. Charlton is a 
Republican, and, in religious connection, a member 
of the First Presbyterian Church of Washington. 




\ILLIAM SMITH, who iu his lifetime was 
one of the most prominent and enterpris 
ing citizens of Washington borough, was 
a native of Beaver county, Penn., born 
near Darlington, August 15, 1800. 
Until he was twenty years of age he worked on 
his father's farm, and in 1821, in company with 
his brother James, he came to Washington and 
opened a general store. The brothers remained in 
the borough about one year, and then removed to 
Philadelphia, where they engaged in the same bus- 
iness on Market street, on a more extensive scale. 
They met with success, but about the year 1825, 
owing to the failing health of James, the business 
was disposed of, and the brothers returned to 
western Pennsylvania, William locating in Union- 
town, where he once more embarked in mercantile 
business. In 1828 he returned to Washington and 
opened a store in a house where the Watson block 
now stands, south of the Public Square. The busi 
ness from the very start proved a success. In 1835 
he purchased from Rev. Thomas Hogue the north 
east corner of Main and Beau streets, to which he 




;***■* 



m 




s!te^-«^^ShC£^ 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



117 



moved his store. Prior to this he had bought of 
Judge Baird the "Round Corner." Id 1 SOI he 
erected the magnificent brick and iron structure on 
the northwest corner of Main and Beau streets, 
known as the "Iron Hall." In 1S53 he received 
his son William W. into partnership, the name of 
the tirm becoming William Smith & Son, which yet 
remains. At an early day, Mr. Smith commenced 
a private banking business, which he also made a 
succesB, and on his retiremenl from active business 
life about the year 1807, the private banking 
house of William Smith & Son was firmly estab- 
lished. 

While a resident of Uniontowu Mr. Smith met 
Miss Wrenshall, of Pittsburgh, whom he subse- 
quently (1828) married in Steubenville, Ohio, to 
which union were born two children, of whom W. 
W., the present head of the business, survives; the 
other one was Fanny Fielding, who became the 
wife of Ferdinand Varro. In the fall of 1861, af- 
ter a long and painful illness, Mrs. Smith died, 
and her husband subsequently married, in Pbila 
delphia, Mrs. Newell (a widow) of that city, a 
daughter of John Simes, one of the early citizens 
of Washington. Several years afterward, Mr. 
Smith, having retired from business, purchased a 
pleasant home in Philadelphia, to which he re- 
moved, and here his second wife died in the winter 
of 1886. He continued to reside in Philadelphia 
till the spring of the following year, when he re- 
turned to Washington, where he peacefully and 
painlessly passed away on Tuesday evening, July 
12, 1887, in the eighty-seventh year of his age. 
Mr. Smith was in his younger life an adherent of 
the Covenanter Church, but while a resident of 
Washington he was an active member of the Cum- 
berland Presbyterian Church. When he removed 
to Philadelphia he connected himself with the 
United Presbyterian Church, under whose banner 
he died. 

W. W. Smith was born August 15, 1830, in 
Washington, Penn., a son of William and Fanny 
(Wrenshall) Smith. His elementary studies were 
pursued in the preparatory department of Wash- 
ington College, under Prof. Robert Milligan, and 
in 1848 he entered the freshman class. After his 
graduation, in 1852, he commenced commercial 
life in his father's dry-goods store and banking 
office, becoming a partner in 1853, as already re- 
lated. Mr. Smith had studied law in the office of 
Robert H. Kuntz, but was not admitted to the bar, 
having exclusively devoted himself to the business 
upon which he had entered. During the Civil 
war he served as a volunteer aid-de-camp on the 
staff of Gen. U. S. Grant, both in the Southwest 
and in Virginia. On June 13, 1807, he married 
Miss Emma Willard McKennan, daughter of Judge 
William McKennan, of the United States Court, of 
whom prominent mention is made elsewhere. To 



this union were born two children: William Me 
Kennan, assisting bin father in the management of 
his business, and Ulysses S. Grant, instructor of 
military tactics and calisthenics at Trinity Hall. 
The mother died in IST'.I. Among the many dis 
tinguished guests present at the wedding of Mr. 
and Mrs. W. W. Smith were Gen. U. S. Grant 
(who was a frequent visitor at their pleasant home), 
wife and sons, and of the General's staff were pres- 
ent Gen. Hilyer and Col. William Dunn. 

Mr. Smith was elected treasurer of the Episcopal 
Church in 1853, holding said office until 1892; was 
three times representative of the diocese of Pitts 
burgh in the general conventions of the church, 
held respectively in Boston (1877), in New York 
(1880) and in Philadelphia (1SS3), and for many 
years has been one of the board of trustees of 
Washington and Jefferson College. He is pro- 
prietor and Rector of Trinity Hall, a select board- 
ing school for boys in Washington, Penn. He is 
the owner of much valuable business property in 
Washington borough, including the well-known 
"Iron Hall" block; of numerous fine farms in the 
county; lands in Florida and West Virginia, be 
sides valuable residence property in Philadelphia 

TRINITT HALL. 

In 1860 Mr. W. W. Smith became owner, by 
purchase, of this fine property where he resided 
until the death of his wife. The school was es 
tablished in 1879 by Mr. Smith, mainly in order 
that his own sons should be instructed at their 
home. The original building was erected in 1857 
as a private residence, owned and occupied by Jo- 
seph McKnight, and, since its purchase by Mr. W. 
\V. Smith, who occupied it as a private residence 
for over twelve years, it has been greatly enlarged 
from time to time, as the growth of the patronage 
of the school demanded. The Rev. Fred C. Cow 
per, of Amesbury, Mass., pays the following trib- 
ute to the excellency of Trinity Hall and its sur- 
roundings: " The school grounds contain forty 
acres situated in a rich and beautiful hill coun- 
try, 1,200 feet above tide water, and surrounded 
by wide-spreading maples, elms, lindens and 
evergreens, with orchards, gardens and vine- 
yards, through which wind broad drives bordered 
by well kept lawns. There has never been sick 
ness in the school. Delicate boys become strong 
and manly in its pure health giving atmosphere. 
The morals of the place are pure; the tone elevat 
ing and refining. Underthe present management. 
the household in all departments is suitable for 
the sons of gentlemen, and has all the comforts of 
a refined home. It is a lovely spot indeed, favored 
by nature, developed by the best skill of the land- 
scape gardener, kept *ip by those who take pride 
in it; and fortunate is the boy who is permitted to 
spend his school days at Trinity Hall." 



lis 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



QEORGE ARMSTRONG LINN, M. D., for 
well nigh a quarter of a century has prac- 
ticed bis profession at Mouongahela, where, 
, and in the neighborhood, he lias, as a skill 
ful and successful physician, established a 
reputation second to none in the county. He is a 
native of the Keystone State, born in Butler 
county December 8, 1831. He is the son of Dr. 
George and Elizabeth (Gibson) Linn, a sketch of 
whose lives is given in the biography of Prof. 
AlonzoLinn. 

The subject proper of this sketch received bis 
education at the common schools of his native 
place, and at Morrison's Academy, at Mouonga- 
hela. He then commenced the study of medicine 
and entered Jefferson Medical College, in Phila- 
delphia, where he completed a full course, grad- 
uating in 1869. Dr. Linn at once located in 
Mouongahela, and has since been one of the lead 
ing physicians of that city and surrounding coun- 
try. On June 12, 1801 , the Doctor married 
Frances, daughter of Joseph Wall, of Allegheny 
county, whose wife was Frances Allen, daughter of 
David Allen. His father was Garrett Wall, whose 
wife was a daughter of Capt. Sparks, of the regu 
lar army. One daughter has been born to Dr. 
and Mrs. Linn: Hannah A., wife of Homer H. 
Swaney, of Pittsburgh. Our subject and wife are 
members of the Presbyterian Church of Mononga- 
h'ela. In politics he was a Whig, and, since the 
organization of the party, a Republican. He has 
served on the school board of his adopted city. 
He is self made and self-educated, a man of excel- 
lent literary taste, and well acquainted with 
scientific questions, germane to his profession and 
otherwise. 



d(OHN W. SEAMAN, junior member of the 
well-known firm, Mitchell & Seaman, dealers 
J in general hardware, etc., Washington, is a 
native of the borough, burn in October, 1841. 
The family came from New Jersey, and 
tradition says that the iirst to bear the name was 
a waif picked up, no more than alive, on the sea- 
shore, and given the name "Seaman." Joseph 
Seaman, great-grandfather of our subject, came to 
Washington, this county, in 1 785, and died here; 
a blacksmith by trade, his shop stood on the site 
where is now the high school. Jacob, grandfather 
of J. W., a mason by trade, and who kept tavern 
for many years at Amity, Amwell township, was 
married to Lydia Jones, daughter of an early comer 
to the county; she was a native of Philadelphia, 
and when a girl migrated to this county, where 
she had several sisters living. Jacob Seaman and 
wife had a family of five childten, viz. : JolinW., who 
died in Washington, leaving a widow and children; 



Alexander and James are also dead, leaving chil 
dren. and Thomas (all were residents of Washing 
ton county); and Mary, who died in infancy. The 
father of this family died about the year 1831. 

Alexander Seaman, son of Jacob, was born in 
the borough of Washington in 1813, and received 
his education at the subscription schools of the 
place. He was brought up to the trade of mason. 
which he followed in early life, but abandoned for 
mercantile pursuits. About the year 1S4U he 
opened out a grocery store in Washington, which 
he carried on for several years with considerable 
success. About 1S37 he married Jean Dagg, 
daughter of Richard Dagg, of Strabane township. 
and granddaughter of Henry Taylor, a pioneer 
farmer of that township, coming to the county 
when the woods were still teeming with wild ani- 
mals and hostile Indians; he was the first presi- 
dent judge of the county, and a prominent factor 
in the early politics of the State. To Alexander 
and Jean (Dagg) Seaman were born five children, 
three of whom grew to maturity, viz.: Mary, wife 
of Samuel Taggart, of Chartiers township; John 
W. , and Margaret, wife of Joseph M. Spriggs, 
grocer, Washington. The parents both died in 
the borough in 1880, the mother in August, the 
father in November. Until 1800 he hail been a 
Democrat, but after that date voted under the 
banner of the Republican party. 

John W. Seaman received his education partly 
at the common schools of his native borough, sup 
plemented by a partial course at Washington and 
Jefferson College. At the age of fourteen years 
he entered his father's store as clerk, remaining 
until 1874, in which yenr he was appointed deputy 
prothonotary, filling the incumbency four years; 
from 187S to 1881 he was out of office, but in the 
latter year he was elected prothonotary, serving six 
years. In 1888 he entered into partnership with 
J. K. Mitchell in general hardware, house furnish- 
ings, etc., under firm name of Mitchell & Seaman, 
the business being one of the most successful and 
extensive in that line in the county. In 1800 Mr. 
Seaman married Louise Mills, of Washington, 
daughter of Andrew Mills, who, about 1830, came 
from the North of Ireland to Washington county. 
To this union seven children, all yet living, were 
born, named as follows: Nellie, James Alexander, 
Alice M., Jean D., Harry E., John T. and Mar- 
garet Louise. Mr. Seaman in his political prefer- 
ments is a Republican, and has held with charac- 
teristic ability many offices of honor and trust 
in the county. He is secretary of the Mechanics 
Building & Loan Association, and of the Mutual 
Building & Loan Association. He is a promi- 
nent and influential member of the First M. E. 
Church, and superintendent of the Sunday-school 
of same. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



119 



GGOL. J. B. R. STREATOR is a native of 
Washington county, born March 12, 1850, 
B at Lone Pine, where his father, Rev. Lyman 
Pierce Streator, was conducting an academy 
at the time. The latter was born in Portage 
county, Ohio, and was educated for the ministry 
of the Christian Church. 

In 1842. being then twenty two yearsof age, he 
came to Washington county, Penn., where he 
preached for a time at Pancake, and then moved 
into Washington borough in 1870. In the mean- 
time, in 1859, the family had proceeded to May's 
Lick, Ky., where Hey remained until the breaking 
out of the Civil war, when they returned to this 
county. At Lone Pine Mr. Streator founded an 
academy, which he kept for sometime. In Wash 
ington county he married Miss Eliza, daughter of 
Jonathan Martin, to which union were born five 
children: Martin Lyman, pastor at Helena, Mont, 
(he is working for the Woman's Board Home Mis 
sions); Jonathan M. , who formerly wan a minister 
in Florida, but has now charge of the Ocala public 
schools, same State; Alexander Campbell, a physi- 
cian in Washington, a sketch of whom follows this; 
Frank W., in the employ of A. B. Caldwell, Wash- 
ington, Penn.; and Charlotte, deceased wife of 
Robert McDonough. The mother of these chil 
dren dying, Mr. Streator married April :i, 1855, 
Rebecca Ruple, who was born in Washington, 
Penn., in 1827, a daughter of James Ruple who 
performed efficient service in the war of 1812-15. 
By this marriage there was one child, James B. R., 
the subject of this memoir. In 1 800 Mr. Streator 
removed to Philadelphia, where he preached for 
six months; thence went to Braddoeks Field, Penn., 
where, in the capacity of State Evangelist, he 
worked for the State Missionary Society. In May, 
1867, he returned to Washington county, and is 
now a resident of South Strabane township. Polit- 
ically Mr. Streator was for many years a consistent 
Democrat, but of late he has been standing in the 
van of the Prohibition party; socially, he is a 
Knight Templar. 

Col. James B. R. Streator attended the public 
schools of the vicinity of his birth, ami afterward 
Washington and Jefferson College, one year. He 
then read law in the office of I. Y. Hamilton, and 
in October, 1877, was admitted to the bar of 
Washington county. He practiced his profession 
in Washington until the formation of the Peoples 
Light & Heat Company, when he was chosen 
secretary and general superintendent of same, and 
he has Hince taken an active interest in the oil and 
gas development in the county. In July, 1877, 
Col. Streator married Emma, daughter of John 
McCoy, late of South Strabane township, where 
her widowed mother is yet living. Of this union 
seven children have been born, as follows: John 
McO, Rebecca, Jane, Emma, Bessie, James B. R. 



and L. P., all at home excepi John, Bessie and L. 
P., who are deceased. Col. Streator has been a 
straight Democrat from early youth. Socially, he 
is a member of the F. & A. M. On January 25, 
1881, the Colonel enlisted in Company H, Tenth 
Regiment N. G. P.; June 19, 1882, was promoted 
to adjutant, and August S, 1 SS7. was further pro 
rooted to lieutenant colonel, which rank he still 
holds. During the time of the riots in the coke 
regions he went with his regiment there, remain 
ing on the spot and at the Morewood Works six 
teen days. 

Alexander Campbell Streator, M. D., was born 
February 20, 1848, in South Strabane township. 
Washington Co., Penn. When he was nine years 
of age his parents moved to Bethany, W. Va., and 
thence to Indiana, where they remained until 1851, 
when they returned to Washington county, at 
which time their son, Alexander ('., was thirteen 
years old. He attended the high school, and 
afterward Washington and Jefferson College, from 
which he was graduated in 1800. Having decided 
on making the medical profession his life work, he 
at once, after graduation, commenced the study of 
medicine under the preoeptorship of his uncle, Dr. 
David (i. Streator, of Bedford, Ohio; but on ac 
count of declining health he was obliged to aban- 
don leading for a time. Regaining his health, he 
renewed his medical studies, this time with Dr. 
Thomas McKennan, and then, in 1882, took 
his degree of M. D. at Cleveland Medical College. 
For a short time afterward he practiced his pro- 
fession at Belle Vernon, Penn., and then came to 
the borough of Washington, where he has siuce 
remained in general practice, meeting with emi- 
nent success. In 1877 Dr. Streator was united in 
marriage with Miss Ann Eliza, daughter of 
William Birmingham, of Pancake, this -county, 
and four children blessed this union, viz. : Sarah 
Eliza, Virginia Birmingham, Helen Mechenor and 
Hugh Henry. On April 2, 1891, at the age of 
forty- two years, the wife and mother was gathered 
by the Grim Reaper from the bosom of her loving 
family. Politically the Doctor is a stanch Repub- 
lican, but not a partisan; socially he is a member 
of the Royal Arcanum and National Union. 



/^RAHAM S. CAMPBELL, cashier of the 
l| First National Bank of McDonald. Penn., 

II I is descended from a well known family of 
^4! this county. John Campbell (the great- 
grandfather of Graham S.) was a native of 
York county, Penn., and moving to Washington 
county about 1778, located on a tract of 191 acres, 
called "Fumanah," in Cross Creek township. 
His family consisted of six sons and three daugh 
ters, namely: John, William and James (all of 
whom moved to Belmont county, Ohio), David, 
Charles and George (these remaining in Cross 



120 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Creek township, where some of their descendants 
are yet living), Grace (wife of Maj. Benjamin Bay, 
moved to Ohio in 1812), Elizabeth (married to 
William Rea) and Mary (Mrs. William Fulton, 
living in Mt. Pleasant township). The father 
died in 1813, and was laid to rest in the cemetery 
at Cross Creek. George Campbell grew to man 
hood on the home farm, in Cross Creek township. 
Ho was united in marriage with Elizabeth Rea, 
who bore him the following children: John, 
Jane, William, Mary, Samuel, George W., Eliza- 
beth, Esther, James and Georgetta. Mr. Camp 
bell followed agriculture all his life. In politics 
he was a Whig, and in religion a member of the 
Presbyterian Church at Mount Prospect- 
George W. Campbell was born September 20, 
1826, and passed his youth on the home place. In 
early manhood he was married to Charlotte, daugh- 
ter of James Wilson, of West Pike Run township, 
and the young people resided in Cross Creek town- 
ship until 1867. They then came to Midway, 
Robinson township, and in 1869 built the Midway 
Hotel, of which he was the proprietor until his 
death, having previously followed fanning and 
stock raising. In politics he was formerly a Whig, 
then became an active worker in the Republican 
ranks, having held various township offices. »For 
many years he was a member of the Presbyterian 
Church at Mount Prospect, then at Cross Creek, 
tinally uniting with the church at Candor, this 
county. He died September 4, 1885, leaving the 
following children: Wilson S., Graham S. and 
Elida (Mrs. W. H. Baldwin), two others, Johnetta 
and Mary, having died in infancy. 

Graham S., son of George W. and Charlotte 
(Wilson) Campbell, was born September 14, I860, 
on the home farm, in Cross Creek township. His 
early literary training was secured at the common 
schools, afterward attending the Ingleside Academy, 
at McDonald. At the age of eighteen years he en- 
tered the employ of J. D. Sauters, of McDonald, 
Penn., with whoin he remained eleven years. 
He then opened a real estate and insurance office, 
in which business he was successful. On the or- 
ganization of the First National Bank of McDon- 
ald, he disposed of his business and accepted the 
position of cashier, which position he now holds. 
On December 18, 1884, he led to the marriage 
altar Annie, daughter of Addison Foster (deceased), 
formerly of Pittsburgh, Penn., and their children 
are George, Verner, Ross and James. Mr. Camp 
bell possesses the confidence of the community, 
and is a very successful man. In 1890 he was 
elected justice of the peace, being an active mem 
ber of the Republican party. He and his family 
are earnest workers in the First Presbyterian 
Church at McDonald, in which he is now mem- 
ber of the Session and superintendent of the Sab 
bath school. 



THOMAS C. M. STOCKTON. M. D., a cult 
ured gentleman and physician of Washing- 
ton county, is a son of the late Rev. Dr. 
John Stockton, whose ancestors came fr< mi 
England to America prior to the Revolution, 
settling in New Jersey. Thomas Stockton (grand 
father of subject) was born in New Jersey, and 
coming to Washington county, Penn., in early 
manhood, was married to Miss Sarah Graham of 
this county. The children born to them were 
Polly, Sarah (Mrs. Gordon), Robert, Thomas and 
John. 

John Stockton (father of subject) was born No- 
vember 18, 1803, in Washington county, Penn., 
and was reared to manhood on his father's farm 
near Washington. He was a student at Washing 
ton College, graduating therefrom in 1820, and 
then entered the Theological College at Princeton. 
N. J. On June 20, 1827, he was ordained in the 
Cross Creek Church of Washington! county, and 
preached regularly for that congregation until 
June 20, 1877, proclaiming the "glad tidings of 
the Gospel " for over fifty years. Although many 
times offered a more lucrative position, in which 
he would seemingly have a wider scope, his only 
answer to such propositions was: "I have started 
with my people here, they are my children, and I 
will live and die with them, and lie buried among 
them." In 1831 he was united in marriage with 
Nancy Clark, daughter of James Clark, a promi 
nent farmer of Franklin county, Penn. , and six 
children came to bless their union, namely: 
Thomas C. M., James C. (a physician living in 
West Philadelphia), John P. P. (a minister of 
West Unity, Williams Co.. Ohio), Robert W. G. 
(deceased in infancy), William (a graduate of Mus- 
kingum College), and Marion E. (wife of Hugh 
Lee, a prominent farmer of Cross Creek township) 
William entered the Civil war as captain in the 
One Hundred and Fortieth Regiment P. V. I., at 
tached to the Second Corps, and served for some 
time as colonel of his regiment, although never 
promoted to that rank. After the war he went to 
North Carolina, soon afterward dying from an 
attack of typhoid fever. 

Thomas'C. M. Stockton was born May 30, 1832. 
He was a close student from early boyhood, and 
at the age of twelve years entered the Cross Creek 
Academy, afterward taking a course at Washing, 
ton College. After his graduation the young man 
returned home and taught in Cross Creek Acad- 
emy, for six or seven years, and then one year in 
Muskingum College. In 1862 he began the study 
of medicine uuder Dr. Dickson, of Pittsburgh, 
with whom he remained one year, afterward at- 
tending one year at Jefferson Medical College. 
Philadelphia. At this time, the war of the Re- 
bellion being in progress, he joined the Union 
army as assistant surgeon of the Eighty-third 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



121 



Regiment, P. V. I., serving until the close of the 
struggle, when he re-entered Jefferson Medical 
College. In 1806 he graduated, and same year 
entered upon his professional duties in Cross Creek 
village. 

On June 4, 18G3, Dr. Stockton was married to 
Miss Auna, daughter of the late Hampton Kerr, of 
Cross Creek village, and they have had two chil- 
dren: Jennie, born September 7, 1S71 (was a stu- 
dent at Wilson College, and graduated in June, 
L892), and Hampton Kerr, born September 23, 
L882 (a bright, affectionate child, possessing an in- 
telligence far beyond his age, he was the hope and 
pride of the parents in their declining years; but 
when three short yearsof the Little Life had passed, 
God called this flower to the "eternal gardens," 
leaving a void in the family circle which can be 
lilled by none other. The dread disease, scarlet 
fever, was the messenger sent by the Angel of 
Death, and though the years were few, that life 
has left a blessed memory that will never die) 
Dr. Stockton has been very successful in his chosen 
calling. He is a consistent member of the Pres 
byterian Church at Cross Creek village, over which 
his father had presided for so many years. Polit- 
ically he was formerly a Whig, and since the or- 
ganization of the party has been a Republican. 




\ILLIAMEWING. The Ewing family are 
of Scotch Irish descent. In their blood 
is mingled the tiery, ardent nature of the 
natives of Erin, with the conscientious, 
persevering and thrifty people of Scot 
land. The ancestors of the particular family whose 
history we are now recording were born in County 
Londonderry, Ireland, and in 1725 came to Amer- 
ica. Nathaniel Ewing, one of these early pioneers, 
was a farmer who settled in Cecil county, Md., 
and reared a family of eight sons, one of whom was 
George Ewing. 

William Ewing, a son of George, came to Fay- 
ette county, Penn. , toward the close of the last 
century. He was married to a Miss Nancy Con- 
well who bore him children as follows: George, 
Nathaniel, John H., Elizabeth Breading (of Pitts- 
burgh, Penn.), Maria (Mrs. Veech, of Pittsburgh), 
Louisa (Mrs. Wilson, of Uniontown, Penn.), Mrs. 
Mary Mason (living in Iowa) and Mrs. Ellen Wal- 
lace (formerly of Pittsburgh). Of this family, 
Mrs. Mason alone is living. The father died in 
Fayette county, Penn. Nathaniel Ewing was 
judge of Fayette and Washington counties. The 
children of John \H. Ewing were: William, Mrs. 
Prof. Wood, Mrs. Dr. Speer, Mrs. Dr. Hallock, 
Col. John Ewing, Dr. George, Samuel and Flor- 
ence. 

William Ewing, whose name opens this sketch, 
was born in 1823, in Washington, Penn., where 



his boyhood was passed. He attended Washing- 
ton College (Dr. McKennan having been one of 
his classmates), graduating in 1842, then took a 
three years course at the Western Theological 
Seminary. After completing his studies at the 
seminary he spent several years in Europe in 
study and travel, and upon returning to Pennsyl 
vania took his first charge at the " Chartiers 
Church," of which he was the pastor for nineteen 
years. 

In April, 1853, Mr. Ewing was united in 
marriage with Miss Isabelle M. , daughter of David 
Quail, of this county, who was a natiyeof northern 
Ireland. She died in May, 1883, leaving four chil- 
dren: John (deceased in his twenty fourth year); 
David, an attorney at Pittsburgh, Penn.; William 
Brown, one of three assistant physicians at Dix 
mont; and Samuel Blaine, a graduate of the Phil 
adelphia Law School. On August 1, 1889, Mr. 
Ewing married, for his second wife, Mary Cathe 
rine Herriott, a native of Washington county. He 
was principal of the Canonsburg Academy for 
twelve years, being a very popular and influential 
citizen of that place. In politics he is a Repub- 
lican, and in religious faith a member of the Pres- 
byterian Church. 



TlOSEPH ALEXANDER HERRON, junior 
w I member of the banking firm of Alexander & 
vlj Co., was born in Monongahela City, Penn., 
^^ October 16, 1847, the only child of Capt. 
David B. and Eliza (Alexander) Herron, the latter 
of whom was a daughter of the late Joseph Alex- 
ander, who died June 20, 1871, in Monongahela 
City, where he had been engaged in business up to 
the date of his death, a period of over forty con- 
secutive years. 

The immediate ancestry of Capt. David B. 
Herron made their homes in Cincinnati, Ohio. 
About the year 1841, he and his two older brothers, 
William and John, made Monongahela City their 
homes, and they became, with him, identified with 
the business and social interests of the town for a 
number of years. Capt. D. B. Herron subsequently 
became identified with steamboat interests in the 
upper and lower river trade, acting in the capacity 
of chief clerk, and commander of some of the 
steamers. Many of his old surviving friends will 
recollect his politeness, suave and urbane manner, 
his strict integrity, his high sense of honor, and 
obliging and generous disposition. He died March 
22, 1864, from disease contracted by exposure on 
his steamboat in transporting troops, munitions of 
war and supplies on Tennessee and Cumberland 
rivers for the Union arm}'. His body lies in the 
Monongahela cemetery; his brothers are both dead. 

Joseph A. Herron received his education at the 
public schools of Cincinnati and at West Chester, 



122 



Washington county. 



(Perm.) Military Academy. Returning to Monon- 
gabela City he entered the banking bouse of Alex- 
ander & Co., conducted by his uncles, William J. 
and James S. Alexander; in 1871 be became a 
partner, and bas continued an active business 
member to the present time. He is prominently 
identified in municipal, educational, church and 
social interests in the place of bis nativity; is a 
trustee in the Monongabela City Manufactured 
& Natural Gas Company; the Washington & 
Williamspoit Turnpike Co. ; the Williamsport 
Bridge Co., and the Monongabela Cemetery. He 
is a member of the school board, and a trustee of 
the First Presbyterian Church, of which he and 
wife are members. On October 25, 1877, Mr. 
Herron was married to Miss Mary Campbell, 
daughter of William Campbell, Esq., president of 
Butler Savings Bank of Butler, Penn. His mother, 
who survives, is a member of his family. 



* 



I Mi ATTHEW BERRY was born January 30, 

\g/\ 1823, at Venice, in Cecil township, Wash- 

*! I ington Co., Penn., the third son of VVill- 

^ iam (Hlmore Berry, Esq., late of the 

same county. 

Matthew Berry, for nearly threescore years, has 

lived on what is known as the " Peach Garden " 

farm, one mile south of Canonsburg, Penn. He 

being the eldest of the Berry family now living, 

has consented to furnish a brief history of the 

Berry family from bis grandfather, John Berry, to 

the present time. 

The grandfather, John Berry, was a native of 
Dublin, Ireland, born A D. 1753. About 1775 he 
emigrated to the United States, and immediately 
upou his arrival in the county enlisted in the army 
lor live years, and served under Gen. Washington. 
In 1780 he was married to Elizabeth Gilmore, who 
came from Ireland in the same ship with him. In 
religion he was a Presbyterian, by occupation a 
shoemaker. After his marriage he settled in Col 
erain township, Lancaster Co., Penn. In 1794 or 
1795 he visited Washington county, on a prospect- 
ing trip, and worked one summer for the Rev. Dr. 
McMillan, the founder of Jefferson College. Late 
in the fall he returned to his home in Lancaster 
county, but next spring he again came to W ashing 
Ion county, bringing with him his eldest son, 
William Gilmore Berry, and purchased a farm of 
251 acres, bein<; part of a tract of land owned by 
Gen Washington, who sold it to Matthew Ritchie, 
who by will conveyed it to Alex. Addison, from 
whom John Berry purchased it. To this farm he 
moved his family during the summer or fall of 
1796. The farm is still owned by his descendants, 
the heirs of W T illiam Berry (deceased). There 
were born to John Berry eight children — three 
sons and live daughters, viz. : William Gilmore, 



John, James, Elizabeth, Nancy, Isabel!, Ann and 
Mary. Of these, William Gilmore was married in 
1(S04 to Jane MeCounell, daughter of Mathew 
McConnell, Esq.; John was married to Rachel 
Phillips; James died unmarried at the age of 
twenty years; Elizabeth was married to Hugh Car- 
son, of Ross county, Ohio; Nancy was married to 
Ebenezer Carson, of Ross county, Ohio; Isabel! 
was married to Jacob George, of Washington 
county, Penn.; Ann was married to Alexander 
McConnell, of Washington county, I'enn.; Mary 
was married to Thomas Torance, of Washington 
county, Pennsylvania. 

William Gilmore Berry was born December 2, 
1781, in Colerain township, Lancaster Co., Penn., 
the eldest son of John Berry. He came to Wash 
ington county with his father in 1796, learned the 
trade of house carpeuter, and for a short time 
worked at the trade. In 1804 he was married to 
Jane McConnell, and to them were born eight 
children — four sons and four daughters — as fol 
lows: 

(I). John, the eldest son [see history of John 
M. Berry, elsewhere in this volume |. 

(II). Mary, the oldest daughter, born May 22, 
1810, was married to John May, February 9, 1837; 
died February 15, 1893; to them were born nine 
children, viz.: (1) Phebe, born February 25, 1838, 
married to Dixon T. McCloy February, 18(50; she 
died in Belmont county, Ohio, February 20, 1890; 
their family consisted of two sons and two daugb 
ters. (2) William B. May, born September 18, 
L839, unmarried, lives near Venice, Penn. (3) 
Rev. John R. May, born February 19, 1841, was 
married to Samantha Fulton, August 1 1, 1880; no 
family; living at Mansfield, Allegheny Co., Penn 
(4) Matthew Alexander May, born June 24, 1843, 
was married to Sara Thompson, in 1862; he died 
March 6, 1874, leaving two daughters. (5) James 
May, born April 22, 1845, died unmarried Febru 
ary 11, 1870. (6) Jane May, born September 24, 
1846, died September 22, 1862. (7) Joseph Car 
son May, born May 27, 1848, was marrieil in May, 
1889, to Miss Alice Pooler. (8) Anna Mary May, 
born April 22, 1851, died December 17, 1851. (it) 
Anna Mary Margaret May, born April 4, 185(5, 
married April 4, 1882, to S. Wilson Scott; he died 
April 28, 1888, leaving a widow and three da ugh 
ters; they now live near Venice, Pennsylvania. 

(III). Elizabeth, the second daughter of William 
Gilmore Berry, was born July 23, 1815, and was 
married to William J. McLaughlin, of Adena, Jef- 
ferson Co., Ohio, October 27, 1840, where they 
still reside. To them were born six children: 
(1) John Mitchell, born January 8, 1843, married 
to Jennie Neff, and one daughter, now Mrs. Min- 
nie Philips; John McLaughlin now lives near 
Atalissa, Iowa. (2) Jane McLaughlin, born De 
cember 25, 1844, was married to James L. Haw- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



123 



thorn, October 18, 1866, and has a family of three 
sons, the oldest of whom, Ross Mitchell, was mar- 
ried to Lizzie L. Simpson. (3) William Gilmore 
McLaughlin, born April 25, 1847, was married to 
Minnie A. Livingston, June 27, 1872; now living 
at Adena, Ohio, and has a family of six children. 
(t) James A. McLaughlin, born November 24, 
1849, was married to Sara Barkhurst, and is living 
near Harrisville,Ohio; of his family of seven children 
two are deceased, and three sons and two daugh- 
ters are living. (5) Samuel R. McLaughlin, born 
March 24, 1854, was married to Bell Porterfield, 
March 20, 1876; living near Atalissa, Iowa; no 
family. (6) Martha Ann McLaughlin, born Octo- 
ber 8, 1856, was married to Alexander G. Haw- 
thorn February 26, 1874, and died February, 1875, 
leaving husband and one son, Harry Wilmer. 

(IV). Jane, the third daughter of William Gil- 
more Berry, born in 1817, was married to John 
Thome, February 17, 1841, and died at Canons- 
burg, Peun., September 21, 1888. 

(V). William Berry, the second son of William 
Gilmore Berry, was born in 181 9; married Eliza 
beth Calohan December 1, 1848, and to them were 
born seven children, rive sons and two daughters, 
their names and dates of birth being as follows: 
John C, August 26, 1849; Jennie M. , November 
12, 1851; George A., April 26, 1854; James D., 
March 2, 1857; Beca C, March 30, I860; Charle) 
G., October 23, 1863; Samuel L., January 6, 1866; 
the children are all married except Beca C, who 
resides with her parents in Oskaloosa, Iowa. 

(VI). Prudence, the fourth daughter of William 
Gilmore Berry, born in 1821, was married to John 
Carson, of Chillicothe, Ohio; he died in 1849, leav 
ing one son, Hugh F. Carson, who lives in Mich 
igan. After her husband's death Prudence re 
turned to Canonsburg, Penn., where she died in 
January, 1886. 

(VII). Matthew, the third son of William Gil 
more Berry, born January 30, 1823, was married 
in April, 1847, to Margaret Willison, of Hickory, 
Penn., daughter of Samuel Willison, and to them 
were born three sons, as follows: (1) W. G., born 
January 22, 1848, was married December 29, 
1869, to Miss Nannie L. Garrett, and they have 
three daughters: Lillie M., Nannie W. (now Mrs. 
S. H. H. Arnold) and Maggie I. W. G. is by oc- 
cupation a house carpenter, now farming, living on 
the Major Urie farm; in politics he is a Repub- 
lican, in religion a liberal United Presbyterian; for 
ten years after 1883 he was secretary and editor of 
Sheep Register; was a member of the National 
Live Stock Association Committee of 18 prepar- 
ing exhibit of live stock at the Columbian Exposi- 
tion, Chicago, 1893, representing fine wooled sheep 
interests; he is an advocate of advanced ideas in 
agriculture. 

(2) Samuel W. Berry, born in 1850, was mar- 



ried to Isabell McNary in November, 1876, and 
their family consists of three children — one daugh 
ter, Elva L. , and two sons, Matthew Willison and 
Walter U. Samuel W. is by occupation a farmer; 
in politics he is a Republican, in religion a United 
Presbyterian; he is living at the old homestead. 
(3) John Alexander Berry, youngest son of 
Mathew, born in December, 1852, married Rachel 
McNut, and their family consists of twodaughd'i>, 
Ida May and Grace Hawthorn; by occupation 
John A. is a merchant, and postmaster at Hens 
tonville, Penn. ; in politics he is an ardent Repub 
lican. 

(VIII). James Berry, youngest son of William 
Gilmore Berry, born March 22, 1827, was married 
to Martha McConnell, February 22, 1846; she died 
January 22, 1890; the family consisted of nine 
children — five sons and four daughters their 
names and dates of birth being as follows: Sarah 
Jane, March 20, 1847; Martha, June HI, 1848; 
William McConnell, October 21, 1849; James Car 
son, June 20, 1851; Anna May, March 28, 1853; 
Francis Alex, January :i, 1S5.">; John, January 28, 
1858; Mary Margaret, April 9, 1859; David Paul, 
October 28, L860. Of these Anna May, John and 
Mary Margaret died in infancy. William, Sarah 
and Maltha live at No. 400 West Pike street, 
Canonsburg, Penn. ; James C. married Kate M. 
Miller, November 1, 1881, and their family con- 
sists of two children (they are living at Sheridan- 
ville, Allegheny Co. , Penn.; he is a member of the 
White Moton Planing Mill Co., Allegheny, Penn.); 
Francis Alexander married Mary Elizabeth Mc 
IVak, July 26, INS!) (by occupation he is a miller, 
and he lives in Canonsburg, Penn.); David Paul 
was married to Bertha Bigby, October 6, 1888 (by 
occupation he is a house carpenter, and he lives at 
Copeland, Penn.). 

William Gilmore Berry began his business career 
at Venice, Penn., working for some time at house 
carpentry. -Soon, however, purchasing a small 
farm and gristmill, he successfully managed them 
for a number of years, improving the farm, erect 
ing a new dwelling house and new mill, with in 
creased capacity. About 1821 he purchased a 
small Hock of Spanish Merino sheep from the cele 
brated flock of W. R. Dickinson, of Steubenville, 
Ohio, and from that date until he disposed of his 
business interests his prominent industry was 
sheep raising and wool growing. In order that he 
might increase his flocks he purchased from time 
to time a number of farms in Washington county 
and in Ohio. The first purchase was the Nelson 
farm in Mt. Pleasant township; the second pur- 
chase was, in company with his brother, John, a 
farm of 200 acres near Cecil postoffice, in Wash- 
ington county, known as the Gordon farm. Later 
they purchased the Spencer farm of 200 acres on 
Paint creek, Ross Co., Ohio, near the city of 



124 



\Y.\slliXGTON COUNTY. 



Chillicotbe. In 1834 he purchased in his own in- 
terest a farm in Cecil township, Washington Co., 
Penn., from James Watson, satin- containing 170 
acres. In August, 1835. he purchased the " Peach 
Garden" farm one mile south of Canonsburg, 
Penn., containing 300 acres. He moved to this 
farm his family (except his oldest son John) on the 
last day of March, 1836, and lived for one year 
in the home now occupied by S. W. Berry. Here 
he made extensive improvements, building the 
large brick dwelling now owned by Robert John- 
ston, and very extensive and commodious farm 
buildings. He purchased and operated the Canons 
burg Mills for a number of years, with the land 
adjoining, mostly now within the borough limits. 
The aforementioned properties he disposed of from 
time to time, his son William securing the north 
end of the Peach Garden farm, while Matthew 
procured the south end, the Canonsburg Mill prop 
erty going to the youngest son, James. 

William Gilmore Berry lived for a number of 
years on the Peach Garden farm, but later moved 
to Canonsburg, building the dwelling house at No. 
104 West Pike street, where he resided until his 
death October 26, 1866, in his eighty fifth year; 
his wife, Jane, died February 25, 1848. He was 
recognized as being a capable business man, set- 
tling up a number of estates. Gov. Simon Snider 
commissioned him justice of the peace for District 
No. 5, composed of Cecil and Chartiers townships, 
his commission bearing date December 13, 1815, 
and to use the language of the commission for 
"so long as you shall behave yourself well." He 
held the office until he moved from the district in 
March, 1836. He was a prominent Abolitionist, 
and associated in this movement with such men as 
Dr. F. Julius Le Moyne, Maj. Samuel McFarland, 
W H. McNary, Joseph Lee and others. He gave 
liberally of bis means to establish and maintain 
the "Underground Railroad," which put many a 
black man to the land north of the great lakes, 
and he lived to read the Emancipation Proclama- 
tion of President Lincoln. In politics he was 
first a Democrat, afterward a Whig, then an Abo- 
litionist, and later a Republican. In religion he 
was a Presbyterian, in later life a member of the 
Associate Reformed Church, and after the union a 
United Presbyterian, a member of the Speer 
Spring Congregation from its organization until 
his death, and for a number of years was a ruling 
elder in that congregation. 

John Berry, the brother of William Gilmore, 
was born in Colerain township, Lancaster Co., 
Penn., March 29, 1S44, came to Washington 
county when a boy with his father, John Berry. 
He purchased from his father his farm of 251 acres 
in Mt. Pleasant township, Washington county, 
where he lived until his death in 1 S7 1 . He was 
married to Rachel Philips, and to them were born 



six children — four sons and two daughters: Eliza, 
Jonathan, John, Mary, William and Rev. Sam- 
uel P. 

Matthew Berry, the subject proper of this 
sketch, is still engaged in his chosen vocation. He 
has given the subject of breeding Merino sheep his 
best thought, and made a success of the same, 
making most marvelous improvements since he be- 
gan the business as a shepherd under his father's 
direction as a boy, and since he became owner of 
the Hock, in 1847. Never being absent at breed 
ing or shearing time since he began the business, 
his aim has been to improve both the rleece and 
mutton qualities of his sheep, until his reputation 
as a " flock master" has become national in its char- 
acter. A great number of flocks in various States 
trace their origin to this flock, and among the many 
famous "flock masters" in Washington county he 
stands near the head. Mr. Berry never aspired to 
public position in politics; he was first a Whig and 
since the organization of the Republican party has 
been a Republican. In religion he was first a 
member of the Speer Spring Congregation Asso 
ciate Reformed, and since the union has been a 
United Presbyterian, and has been a member of the 
First TJ. P. Church at Houstonville, Penn., since 
its organization. 



JfOHN N. McDONALD. Among the energetic 
early settlers of Washington county the Mc- 
) Donald family, of whom this sketch treats, 
was very prominently identified. 

John McDonald (grandfather of John N.) 
was born in eastern Pennsylvania, where he re- 
ceived his educational training and grew to man 
hood. He was married to Martha Noble, of the 
same county, a daughter of the founder of Nobles- 
town, Penn., and the young couple then came to 
Washington county, locating, in 1775, in Robinson 
township, on the farm still occupied by their de- 
scendants. The children born to them were 
James, Andrew, William, Alexander, Edward, 
John, Margaret (Mrs. Glenn), Martha (Mrs. Alli- 
son), Elizabeth (Mrs. Mitchell) and Mary (Mrs. 
William Nesbit). The father of this family 
passed the latter part of his life in improving the 
home farm, and he cleared the meadow on which 
an Indian trading post, was erected. He was a 
federalist in politics, and in religious connection 
was a member of the Presbyterian Church at Can- 
dor. 

Edward McDonald (father of John N. ) was born 
August 13. 1702, in Robinson township, this 
county, where he was reared and educated and 
passed his entire life. On April 27, 1819, he mar 
tied Margaret Nesbit, of Allegheny county, Penn., 
and she bore him children as follows: .John N. , 
Nesbit, Martha (wife of the late Rev. J. M. Hast- 





/<£. /fe-'och-TX- 



.^s^te. 



WASHINGTON COUNT) 



127 



iugs, of West Chester, Penu.), Hannah J., Eliza- 
beth, Emily (married to Jacob H. Miller), James, 
Edward and Margaret M. Mrs. McDonald died 
in 1839, and in 1844 Edward McDonald married 
Margaret B. Snodgraas, of Allegheny county, 
Perm. Mr. McDonald followed farming and stock 
raising, and in politics was a prominent worker in 
the Whig party, serving as a member of the Legis- 
lature and as a justice of the peace. In relig 
ions faith he was an elder and trustee of the 
Presbyterian Church at Candor. He died Max 30, 
L867. 

John N. McDonald was born February 10, 1820, 
on the home farm, in Robinson township, this 
county, and received a liberal subscription-school 
education. On October 29, 18(52, he was united in 
marriage with Elizabeth .M., daughter of Maj. 
William Lee, of Cross Creek township, Washing- 
tun county, and the children born to this marriage 
were: Edward, Jane Craig, Margaret (deceased), 
William Lee (deceased) and J. Nesbit. After 
their marriage Air. and Mrs. McDonald settled on 
the home farm, where the family have since re- 
sided, engaging in agricultural pursuits. He was 
formerly a Whig, and upon the organization of the 
Republican party became an active worker of that 
body. 

He served in the State Legislature of L853 
and 1858, as a representative of Washington 
county; was also a delegate to the Union State 
Convention, in 185(5; a representative delegate in 
the convention of 1868; a senatorial delegate in 
1876, and again a representative delegate in the 
conventions of 1880 and 1881. For many years 
he had been a member of the board of trustees of 
Washington and Jefferson College; and of his eflfi 
ciency as a school director in his district, of the 
work he did for the Presbyterian Church of .Me 
Donald, and his interest in the cause of education 
and religion generally, all who knew him were 
aware. 

In fact, it would require a volume to re- 
cord all that he accomplished in these directions. 
He was formerly a member and trustee of the 
Presbyterian Church at Candor, but, in 1886 be- 
came an elder of the First Presbyterian Church at 
McDonald, Robinson township. John N. died 
May 23, 1889, and was buried in the Raccoon 
cemetery. 

Edward McDonald, the eldest in the family of 
John N. and Elizabeth M. (Lee) McDonald, was 
born January 11, 1864, on the homestead at Mc- 
Donald, Penn. In 1884 he graduated at Wash 
ington and Jefferson College, and then returning 
to the farm was taken into partnership with his 
father in stock raising. In April, 1892, he was 
elected president of the First National Bauk of 
McDonald. 



JAMES H. ALLEN, editor and publisher of 
The Saturday Evening Supper Table, an in- 
teresting illustrated weekly published at the 
office No. 61 N. Main street, Washington, 
Penn., was born in that town, July 21, 1857. His 
grandfather Allen came with his family from Eng 
land to this country, and to Washington county 
in 1829. 

John Allen, father of James H. , was a native of 
Lancashire, England, and was about thirteen 
years old when brought to this country by his 
parents. In Baltimore, Md , he learned the trade 
of shoemaker, which he afterward followed in 
Washington, in connection with a shoestore. But 
for fifteen years prior to his death he carried on a 
confectionery business on South Main street, Wash 
ington. In 184."> John Allen was united in mar 
riage with .Mis-. Melvina Moffat, a native of this 
county, and seven children were born to them, viz. : 
William, died young; Lydia, unmarried; Jennie 
M., married to Robert M. Cordon, of Wayuesbuig, 
Penu. ; and Ella ML, James H, Clark J. and Birdie 
M., all in Washington, Lydia, Ella, Birdie and 
Clark living together. In 1871, one evening while 
Mrs. Allen, the mother, was preparing to go to 
prayer meeting, the house was struck by lightning, 
and she was instantly killed in her forty-ninth year. 
At 5 o'clock in the evening of April 16, 1886, the 
father was taken ill with neuralgia of the heart, 
and at 10 o'clock, the same night, lie expired. He 
was a large man, good-natured and jovial, and had 
a very wide circle of friends. He aud his wife 
were members of the M. E. Church, but in his 
later years he identified himself with the Method 
ist Protestant Church, in which he held office. 
Socially, he was one of the oldest members of the 
I. O. O. F. in the county, being one of the charter 
members of Lodge No. 81, Washington; he had 
taken all the Chairs, and for several consecutive 
years was a delegate to various Grand Lodges. 
Politically, he was an ardent Republican, from the 
time of the formation of that party. 

James H. Allen received his education at the 
Uniou School in Washington, and when a lad of 
about seventeen summers entered the office of the 
Advance in the capacity of "'devil." Two- weeks' 
revelry in that Arcadian employment showed the 
stuff young James was made of, and he very prob- 
ably received prompt promotion; a few months 
later we find him " stickingtype " in the job room, 
his banner bearing the aspiring device — "Excel- 
sior." A year or more later the paper ^changed 
hands and name, simultaneously, its new title 
being Observer, and Mr. Allen was further pro- 
moted to foreman of the news room, a position he 
filled with characteristic ability for several years; 
he was also manager of the job room for some con- 
siderable time. On May 30, 1885, he launched 



128 



1 1 '. 1 SH1±X G TON UOUN T Y. 



into the world, for weal or for woe, the interesting 
and neatly got tri i up, well-edited sheet, The Satur- 
day Evening Supper Table, which has proven 
a marked success, and is steadily growing in pat- 
ronage. At its birth it was a four-page 10x12 
sheet, now it has sixteen pages, 10x14. "May its 
shadow never grow less!" 

On January 29, 1890, Mr. Allen was married to 
Lillian 11., daughter of W. A. Bane, of the firm of 
Bane Bros., Washington. Politically, our subject 
is a Republican, and in the spring of 1892 he was 
elected a justice of the peace in a Democratic 
township, polling the largest vote of any man on 
Ins ticket. Socially, he is a member of the Im- 
proved Order of Heptasoplis, and is a charter 
member of the Junior O. U. A. M. Mr. Allen is 
a great grandson of Massy Harbison, who expe 
rienceil a marvelous escape from the barbarity of 
the Indians in 1792. of which the following is a 
concise account: 

Mass)' Harbison was born in Arnwell township, 
Somerset Co , N. J., March 18, 1770. Herfather, 
Edward White, was a Revolutionary soldier, who 
after the war (in 1783) removed to where is now 
Brownsville, this county. Here Massy lived with 
her father until her marriage, which event for some 
reason caused his displeasure, and Massy and her 
husband moved to the banks of the Allegheny, 
settling on the headwaters of Chartiers creek, 
where they did extremely well from 1779 till the 
breaking out of the Indian war in March, 1791, 
when they lost all their hard-earned possessions. 
In about a year thereafter her husband was ap- 
pointed to the dangerous post of a spy, and ordered 
into the woods to watch the movements of the In- 
dians; but nothing for a long time was seen of a 
nature to excite alarm. The Redskins frequently 
visited the house of John and Massy Harbison to 
receive refreshments and to lodge, and all the sur- 
roundings indicated peace and quiet. On the 
night of May 21, 1792, two of the spies, James 
David and Sutton, came to lodge at the Har- 
bison's house, and at daybreak of the following 
morning, when the horn blew at the blockhouse, 
the two men went out. Massy was awake at the 
time, 'out fell asleep again, and the first thing she 
realized afterward was that some Indians were 
pulling her out of bed by the feet. Sue then 
looked up and saw that the house was full of sav 
ages, each one having a gun in his left hand and a 
tomahawk in his right. She immediately jumped 
to the floor on her feet, with her young child in 
her arms, and while her assailants were busy 
plundering the house she made for the door and 
succeeded in getting outside with the one child in 
her arms, and another held by the hand, one little 
boy being still inside the cabin. By this time the 
blockhouse was alarmed by her screams, and a 
general tight ensued, during which the Indians 



beat a retreat; but before leaving the Harbison 
dwelling they dashed out the brains of the boy 
that was left inside, simply because he cried. 
Taking Massy and her two remaining children 
with them (one of the savages having claimed her 
as his squaw), the party marched to the top of the 
bank, where they made a halt in order to divide 
among themselves (thirty-two in number) the 
plunder which they had taken from the house. 
They then proceeded on their journey toward the 
mouth of the Kiskimiuetas, Massy and her chil 
dren being mounted on one of two horses which 
the Indians had in the meantime captured from 
her uncle, John Carrie. When they arrived at 
the bank that descended toward the Alleghen)', 
there appearing to be so much danger in descend, 
ing it on horseback. Massy threw herself off the 
horse with her two children, and here the elder of 
the little boys beginning to cry, and complain of 
having been hurt, the Indians deliberately mur- 
dured him. At this horrible sight the mother fell 
to the ground in a swoon, her infant still in her 
arms, but after severely castigating her with rods 
the savages assisted her to rise to her feet. Again 
proceeding on their journey, crossing Little 
Buffalo creek at the very spot where B. Sarver's 
mill now stands, they finally arrived at an Indian 
camp at the Salt Lick of the Conequessing, about 
two miles above where is now the town of Butler. 
Here Massy and her baby boy were closely watched 
and barbarously treated until Monday following, 
when they moved her to another camp in the same 
valley. 

Next morning, by a most heroic effort, and at 
the imminent risk of her own life and that of her 
babe, the heroine of this adventure succeeded in 
making her escape, taking a direction from where 
she knew by the sun her old home lay, and lying 
concealed from time to time in the woods, her 
couch by night being made of leaves she had gath- 
ered. Encountering innumerable perils, one 
night having a vary narrow escape from recapture 
by an Indian who had succeeded so far in follow- 
ing up her trail, the courageous woman and de 
voted mother sped on her way, now in a homeward 
direction, till wet, weary and exhausted hungry 
and wretched, she found herself on the morning of 
May 27 at the headwaters of fine creek, which 
falls into the Allegheny about four miles above 
Pittsburgh, though she did not then know where 
she was. After some wandering about she struck 
a trail on Squaw run, which she followed, and just 
as she was about to succumb through hunger, ex- 
haustion and exposure to the weather, her wearied 
eyes were suddenly gladdened by the sight of an 
uninhabited cabin. Presently she heard the wel- 
come sound of a distant cowbell, and on proceeding 
in the direction it appeared to come from, she 
presently descried three white men on the opposite 



ii ASHlNGTON COUNTY. 



129 



hank of the creek. Making her presence known 
to them by calling as loud as her weak condition 
would enable her, one of the men, James Closier, 
~,.ii>n had her in his canoe, and ere long she found 
herself and infant in the willing hands of kind 
friends who gently cared for her and nursed her 
back to health and Btrength, and to her grief 
stricken husband. The John Olosier alluded to 
was one of her nearest neighbors, yet in tin six 
days from the time of her capture by the Indians, 
^she vvas so altered that he failed to recognize her 
either by her voice or countenance. The infant that 
shared with its mother the horrors and hardships 
of those six days, was John Harbison, who lived to 
the patriarchal age of ninety-three years, dying at 
Cedar Rapids a few years ago. Massy was a good 
rirle shot, and during the Indian fights at the block 
house, she would take her rifle and bravely do Inn- 
part in defending it. She died at Freeport. I'enn.. 
her husband having preceded her to (In- gr;i\e l>\ 
some few years. 




OBERT W. DAVIS. M. D., a well known 
and prominent native born citizen of Wash 
ingtou county, lirst saw the liglit in Hope 
well township, October 19, 1832. He is a 
sou of Samuel and Nancy (Hamilton) Davis, 
natives of Washington county, where his grand 
parents died before he was born. They had a 
large family, all long since called to their last 
homes. 

Samuel Davis, father of subject, was a farmer 
by occupation, and also kept hotel for many years. 
The Middletown road, which was laid out by the 
Government in 1814, was the chief thoroughfare in 
use for the conveyance of military supplies be- 
tween Fort Redstone and Wellsburg during the 
war of that period, and this hotel was the only one 
between Washington and Middletown. Samuel 
Davis was married to Nancy Hamilton, who was 
descended from Scotch Irish ancestry, and they 
had seven children, as follows: John, who died in 
Kansas in 1888; William, who died in 1892, near 
Cambridge, Ohio; Hugh, in Ogle county, 111. ; 
Mary, deceased wife of John Caldwell; Samuel 
and Hamilton, both deceased, and Robert W. In 
1864 the father died, the mother in 1S73, aged 
seventy-six years. 

Robert W. Davis was reared to manhood on his 
father's farm, receiving his primary education at 
the common schools of his district, after which he 
attended Washington and Jefferson College. He 
read medicine with Dr. John Russell Wilson, and 
attended lectures at Jefferson Medical College, 
Philadelphia, but his occupation has been chiefly 
farming. In 1N55 the Doctor married Mary Ann, 
daughter of James Spriggs, of Washington, and 
by her had four children: James Samuel, who died 



at the age of twenty veins; Harry H. , now living 
in Washington, Penn. ; Robert W., on the farm in 
Canton township, and one that died in infancy, un- 
named. The mother of these children died in 
1869, and in 1871 Dr. Davis was united in mar- 
riage with Mrs. Susanna Coulter, of Allegheny 
county, Penn., the mother, by her first marriage, 
of two daughters, one now deceased, and one 
married to John Craig, of Keokuk, Iowa. By 
this last union Dr. Davis has no children. He 
owns a tine farm in Canton township, situated 
about two and one half miles from Washington, on 
the Baltimore & Ohio railroad, and his home since 
his marriage has been on West Chestnut street, in 
the borough. Politically he was originally a Whig, 
then, on the formation of the party, a stanch Re- 
publican. He was formerly connected with the 
First Presbyterian Church, but is now a member 
and trustee of the Third Presbyterian Church. 



IiAMES C. ACHESON. No family can boast 
^ I a prouder lineage, or are more worthy repre- 
M sentatives of an honored race, than those eit 
izens of Washington county who bear the 
inline of Acheson. Their ancestors were origiually 
natives of Scotland, who in lliOl moved to County 
Armagh, Ireland. In 1776 Sir Archibald Acheson 
became Baron Gosford, subsequently receiving the 
title of "viscount.'' The descendants of the fam- 
ily, who afterward emigrated to America, resided 
on the family estate at Glassdrtiminond, in County 
Armagh. 

George Acheson, a lineal ancestor of the Wash 
ington county family, was born in 1724. He was 
married to Elizabeth, daughter of David Weir, a 
merchant of Belfast, Ireland, and she bore him 
seven children, viz. : George, John, Thomas, Will- 
iam, Hannah, Ellen and David. Of these children 
George and William died on the homestead in Ire- 
land; the others all came to America and settled 
here. The father died in July, 18P2, having been 
preceded to the grave by his wife July 29, 1808. 

John Acheson came to America before the close 
of the Revolutionary war, and commenced trading; 
was also employed by the United States Govern 
ment to furnish the National troops with supplies 
during the Indian wars. He died in 1790 (while 
crossing the Alleghany mountains on horseback), 
leaving a widow and two daughters in Ireland. In 
1807 the youngest daughter came to America, and 
lived with her uncle David. 

David Acheson, youngest son of George, and 
brother of John, was born in 1770, coming with 
his brothers to America in 1788, first locating in 
Philadelphia, Penn. He brought the following 
letter from the pastorof his father's church: "The 
bearer, David Acheson, intending to remove to 
North America, this, therefore, is to certify that he 



130 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



is a young man of sober and good conduct, and 
son of Mr. George Acheson, an elder of the Seced- 
ing Congregation of Market Hill, in the County of 
Armagh, Ireland. This is given under my hand 
(his 30th of April, 1788. David Arnott, Minister." 
Alter arriving in America, David Acheson assisted 
his brother John in furnishing supplies for the 
United States army, continuing in that business 
until the death of Johu. Among the papers yet in 
possession of the family are accounts of mercantile 
trips made by the brothers, in 1790 and 1791, from 
Pittsburgh to New Orleans, also a letter written by 
the Spanish authorities (in that language) permit 
ting David Acheson to transact business in their 
territory. He began the study of law with James 
Ross after the death of his brother, but did not 
continue it; then joined in business pursuits with 
his brother Thomas. They were largely interested 
in the tea trade at Pittsburgh and Washington. 
In 1795, L797 and 1804 David Acheson represented 
Washington county in the State Legislature, hav- 
ing been elected by the Democratic party. Early 
in the year 1799 David Acheson was united in 
marriage with Elizabeth, daughter of Samuel 
Young, of Philadelphia. She died February 27, 
1800, leaving an infant daughter, Eliza Young (af- 
terward Mrs. Woodward), who was reared by her 
grandmother in Philadelphia and died in Cleve- 
land, Ohio. In November, 1802, he visited the old 
country, remaining about six months in England 
and Ireland. On October 31, 1805, he was united 
in marriage with Mary, daughter of John Wilson, 
of Washington, Penn., a native of Ireland. They 
immediately made their home in Philadelphia, re 
turning to Washington in 1815. The children of 
this family were born as follows: John (who died 
in 1X33 in Arkansas), Alexander W. (who became 
judge, and died in Washington county), Catherine 
(deceased wife of William V. Davis of Lancaster, 
Penn.), David (died in 1820), Mary Jane (married 
to Joseph MoKnight, of Pittsburgh, Penn. , and died 
in 1843), Margaret, William (died in 1873, in Arm 
strong county, Penn.), George (studied law with 
his brother Alexander W. Acheson, and he and C. 
W. Slagle, of Washington, were both admitted to 
the liar in the spring of 1843, and they at once 
proceeded to Iowa, settling in Fairfield and entering 
partnership for the practice of law, which partner- 
ship continued for thirty-eight years, or until the 
death of George Acheson in the spring of 188 1 . 
Mr. Slagle died one year later. They were the 
oldest law firm in Iowa), James G. (of whom special 
mention is made further on), Ellen (wife of Rev. 
Dr. Brownson), Marcus W. (an attorney, was judge 
of district court of western Pennsylvania for ten 
years, in L891 succeeding Judge McKenuan as cir- 
cuit judge), and David (living in Pittsburgh, 
Pennsylvania). 
After his return lo Washington, Penn., David 



Acheson erected his elegant home where Jonathan 
Allison is now living. Mr. Acheson entered busi- 
ness at Washington, but, some investments in real 
estate having failed, he soon retired from active 
life. In 1840, then over seventy years of age, he 
made another trip to Ireland, returning to America 
two years later. In 1848 he was seized with a 
paralytic stroke, but lingered until December 1. 
IS.) I, when death relieved him; his widow passed 
away August 2, 1872, aged eighty-five years. The 
following obituary notice appeared in one of the 
papers: ''He was an accurate and close observer of 
public and political affairs as connected not only 
with our own Government, but with the prominent 
nations of Europe, of the diplomacy of which, as 
well as of their policy, there were but few private 
men of his day, retiring and unobtrusive as he 
was, who better understood or could more accurate 
ly delineate. His judgment and conclusions, 
which were always deliberate and well matured by 
his deep-thinking, strong mind, were valuable and 
very highly esteemed by those acquainted with 
him, whether in public or private life. Thus during 
the period of vigorous manhood he enjoyed a most 
extensive popularity and influence in the State of 
Pennsylvania particularly, and with many of her 
most distinguished individuals, in her political 
party history and government, he was on the 
closest terms of intimacy ; hence his opinions and 
counsels were always much sought after and great- 
ly valued. As a private friend and in social life, 
Mr. Acheson was a man of ardent and sincere at- 
tachments, and where personal effort or labor were 
needed he never faltered or shrunk by reason of 
apparent difficulty or threatened danger, ever 
ready and willing to serve his friends at whatever 
responsibility or personal risk by day or night, at 
home or abroad." 

The surviving children of David and Mary 
Acheson, lor the first time after a lapse of over thirty- 
years, all met at the old homestead in Washing 
ton, on the occasion of the death of their mother. 
Her funeral took place August 4, 1872, and the 
day following they repaired to the graves of their 
parents, in Washington cemetery, and there agreed 
that they, and the survivors of them and the last 
survivor, would annually revisit the graves of their 
parents on October 31, the anniversary of their 
marriage. 

James C. Acheson was born February 13, IS'24, 
in Washington, Penn. He attended the common 
schools of his native borough, and also studied at 
college, but did not graduate. At the age of six 
teen years he left home, and clerked for a time in 
a store at Pittsburgh, Penn., afterward one year in 
Wheeling, W. Va., in a similar capacity. In 1842 
he returned to Washington, and the following year 
began clerking for his brother William, who bad 
opened a grocerj business in Washington, .lames 



WASllIXGTOX CUCXTY. 



131 



C. afterward became his brother's partner, and in 

1863 bought the entire store, which he has since 
conducted. He was thrice married; first time 
April 20, 1847, to Elizabeth Wilson, who bore him 
four children, two of whom are now living: Mary 
(at home), and Anna (Mrs. Henry Dongan, of 
Washington). This wife dying in 1855, Mr. Ache- 
son married, October 1, 1857, Mary E. Mahon, a 
teacher in Washington Seminary. She died in 
I860, leaving two children, one of whom is now 
deceased, the other, Alexander M. , being a civil 
engineer on the Texas branch of the Missouri, 
Kansas & Texas Railroad. For his third wife 
.lames C. Acheson married, September 1, 1863, 
Mary F. Bureau, granddaughter of an early 
French settler of Gallipolis, Ohio. Five children 
have been born to this last marriage, namely: 
Madeleine (Mrs. Frederick S. Rich, in Oil City, 
Penn.), Margaret B., Grace O, C. L. Valcaulon 
and Eleanor W. , the latter four yet living at home. 
Since the Kansas trouble, in 1856, Mr. Acheson 
has been a Republican, and during the war of the 
Rebellion the family were all Union men, some of 
them serving in the army. He is a F. & A. M. 
an 1 at one time was district deputy grand master. 
In religion he is a member of and elder in the 
Presbyterian Church, and has served twenty nine 
consecutive years as superintendent of the Sabbath- 
school. In municipal matters, be has served as a 
member of the borough council. Mr. Aches us 
success in life is due to earnest effort, his whole 
tira< being devoted to the business in which he is 
engaged, 




ILLIAM BUCHANAN CHAMBERS, 

treasurer of Washington county, and one 
of its most efficient, courteous and pains 
taking officials, was elected in 1890 to the 
position he so ably fills, his term expiring January 
1, 1894. 

John Chambers, father of subject, was born in 
South Strabane township, this county, September 
fi, 1813, and in early life learned the trade of 
blacksmith, which he for a time followed, but on 
coming of age he abandoned the anvil for the 
counter, embarking in mercantile business in Buf- 
falo village. Here he remained till 1830, when he 
removed to Canonsburg and opened out a store for 
the sale of general merchandise, which he con- 
ducted up to the time of his death. He was twice 
married ; first time to Miss Catherine, daughter of 
Josiah Ramsey, of South Strabane township, by 
which union there were children as follows: 
Martha, wife of Dr. W. G. Keady. a Presbyterian 
minister, of Greensboro, Ala. ; Josiah R., who died 
in 1886 (his family are now residents of Washing- 
ton county); John S., in Leavenworth, Kans. ; 
Nannie H. , widow of Merrick S. McCloy, of 



Canonsburg (she has one child, Walter L.); 
William B. , of whom special mention will be 
presently made; and Dora A., wife of A. B. Gal 
braith, of Allegheny City. The mother of this 
family died in 1S51 in Canonsburg, and Mr. Cham 
bers married, for his second wife, Mrs. B. P. Mc 
Conneil !//" Watson), a widow lady who had one 
child by her first husband, Annie, who was married 
to John Gamble, of Nottingham township. By 
Mr. Chambers' second marriage there is one child, 
Ida May, now living with the subject of this 
sketch at his home in Canonsburg. John Cham 
bers was a Democrat, and had held borough offices; 
he died October 26, 1885, a member of the Presby- 
terian Church. His second wife died November 
9, 1891. 

William Buchanan Chambers was born in 
Canonsburg, Washington Co., Penn. , August 14, 
1850, and received his education at the common 
schools of that borough, afterward attending Wash 
ington and Jefferson College to the clo^e of the 
freshman year. His vacations he spent in his 
father's store, gaining an insight into commercial 
routine, but soon after leaving college he moved to 
McDonald Station, same county, where he was en- 
gaged as clerk in store of J. D. Sauters, and here 
he remained five years. Thence he proceeded to 
Pittsburgh, and clerked in a grocery store there 
two years, for the Valley Milk Co., after which he 
came. January 1, 1880. to Washington to till the 
position of deputy sheriff, under George Perritte, 
who was then sheriff of the county. Mr. Perritte 
he succeeded, being elected sheriff in 1882, and 
served three years— from January 1, 1883, to Jan- 
uary 1, 1886. At the expiration of his term he 
was appointed chief U. S. deputy marshal, under 
George W. Miller, marshal for the Western Dis- 
trict of Pennsylvania, serving four years, and on 
the latter' s removal, continued in office four months 
longer, under the present marshal, but being a 
Democrat, and the Government Republican, he was 
removed. He then returned to Canonsburg, where 
he remained unemployed until his election to his 
present incumbency, overcoming a nominal Repub- 
lican majority of 1,800, the first Democratic treas- 
urer elected in the past twenty-five years. Our sub- 
ject is the only Democratic county official. Wash 
ington being strongly Republican. While a stu- 
dent at college, he was a member of the Phi 
Kappa Sigma Fraternity, and of the Philo-Union 
Literary Society of Washington and Jefferson Col- 
lege. His esteem and worth as a public officer were 
recognized at a banquet held by the Washington 
county bar, on his retirement from the office of 
sheriff, on which occasion Alexander Wilson, Esq., 
offered the following sentiment, which was unani 
mously accepted by the assemblage: 

William B. CJinmbem, E»q.:— A faithful officer, fearless 
in the- discharge of his duties, pleasant in his intercourse 



132 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



with li is fellow citizens, kind and obliging to the mem- 
bers of the bar and officers of the court. He retires from 

it dice of High Sherifl of Washington county with an 

honorable record for purity and integrity, and with the 
best wishes of all who have had official and personal in 
tercourse with him. 



J | AMES GORDON SLOAN, M. D., one of the 
leading popular physicians of Washington 
| county, was born ai Frankfort, Beaver Co., 

Penn", January IS, 1841. 

His paternal and maternal aucestors wen' 
from the North of Ireland. His paternal grand 
parents, .lames Sloan and wife, came from County 
Tyrone, Ireland, to Washington county, Penn., in 
1801, and settled on a farm near West Middletown, 
in Hopewell township, where they passed the rest 
of their pioneer lives, dying at an advanced age. 
They were Presbyterians of the Covenanter school. 
Their children who reached the age of maturity 
were Jane (who died unmarried), Robert (who 
married, but had no children), James (father of our 
subject), Eliza (married, but had no children), and 
John C. (married, and had six children; he was 
prominent in politics, and represented Washing 
ton county in the Legislature; was also a promi 
nent farmer). 

James Sloan, son of James the pioneer of the 
family, was born on the old homestead farm of his 
father, in Hopewell township. He was twice mar 
ried, first in 1832, to Miss Sarah Liudsey, by whom 
he had one daughter, who became the wile of R. 
C. Mcllvain, of Somerset township, Washington 
county, a cousin of Judge John A. Mcllvaine. 
Mrs. Sarah Liudsey Sloan dying one year after 
her marriage, her bereaved husband, for his sec- 
ond wife, was united in marriage in 1840 with Miss 
Margaret Gordon, by which union there were two 
children: James G., and Martha A., the hitter of 
whom died at the age of nine years. 

James Gordon Sloan was educated in the com 
men school of Mordecai Hoge, in Somerset town 
ship, Washington Co.. Penn., then attended the acad 
emv of Hon. John C. Messenger, at Hoge's Summit 
In 1859 he entered Jefferson College, Canonsburg, 
graduating therefrom August 7, 1862. On August 
13, same year, he enlisted in Company G, One Hun 
dred and Fortieth Pennsylvania Volunteers, Capt. 
John Fraser, professor of mathematics in Jeffer 
son College. Our subject served until I he close of 
the war, having participated in the battles of 
Chancellorsville. Gettysburg, Wilderness, Spott 
sylvania and Cold Harbor, and was present at the 
surrender of Gen. Lee to Gen. Grant. His 
credentials from his company, regimental, divisional 
and corps commanders — Capt. Bingham, Brevet 
Brig. Gen. Fraser, Gen. John C. Caldwell, Divis 
ion Commander and Maj.-Gen. W. S. Hancock — 
all testify to his faithful service and bravery as a 



soldier. At the close of the war he received an 
appointment in the Interior Department, Land 
Office Bureau, at Washington, where he remained 
four years. He read medicine with Dr. Johnson 
Eliott, of Washington. D. C, attended medical 
lectures at Georgetown College, Washington, D. 
C , and graduated in 1809. The Doctor first be- 
gan the practice of his profession in Fayette City, 
Payette Co., Penn., and in 1N74 removed to Mo- 
nongahela, where he has been actively and success- 
fully engaged in the practice of medicine. 

On July 5, 1866, Dr. Sloan was married to Miss 
Carrie M. Hamilton, who was born near Munn 
town. Washington Co., Penn., daughter of Alex- 
ander ami Elizabeth (Bushager) Hamilton, who 
were members of the Presbyterian Chinch at 
Pigeon Creek, of which Mr. Hamilton was a ruling 
elder a number of years. Dr. and Mrs. Sloan 
have one daughter, Margaret Gordon, wife of Dr. 
W. W. Medill, a graduate of Washington College, 
now a practicing physician in Denver, Colo. Dr. 
Sloan is one of the pension surgeons for Washing 
ton count v. 



THE MURDOCH FAMILY trace their line 
age to one John Murdoch, a native of Scot 
land, who came from Carlisle, Penn., to 
North Strabane township, Washington 
county, in 1?78. His third son, Alexander 
Murdoch, was born in 1770, on the home farm 
i ear Carlisle, where his earliest boyhood was 
passed. He accompanied the family to Washing 
ton county, and when a young man purchased the 
Canonsburg mills, together with a large tract of 
land adjoining them. From these mills he loaded 
two large Hat boats with Hour and saddlery, land 
ing them safely in New Orleans; then returned on 
horseback through the unbroken wilderness. In 
1803 he was united in marriage with Elizabeth. 
daughter of Rev. Matthew Henderson, of Char- 
tiers township. In 1809 he received an appoint- 
ment, from the governor, as prothonotary of the 
court of common pleas of Washington county, 
serving in that office until 1819. Upon acceptance 
of this position he sold his property in Canons 
burg, and, moving to Washington, in 1S'_''J erected 
a house which is now a part of the " Hotel Main." 
He resided there until 1828, during which time he 
was engaged in mercantile enterprises, then pur 
chased 100 acres known as the " Morgan za tract,'' 

located lw liles from Canonsburg. In 1828 he 

and his family moved to this place, and he died in 
1836; his widow passed her last days in Canons 
burg, where she was laid to rest in March, 1863, 
at the age of eighty three years. They were the 
parents of eleven children, of whom are named : 
Ma iv M.. widow of Hon. J. L. Gow, of Washing- 
ton; Mrs Sarah B. Musser. of Nelsonville, Ohio; 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



133 



Mrs. E. W. Wilson, of Moberly, Mo.; Anna, also 
living in Moberly, Mo. ; and Alexander, a lawyer 
of Washington, Penu. The latter practiced law 
with his brother-in-law, J. L. Gow, and in April, 
1861, received the appointment, from President 
Lincoln, as United States marshal of western 
Pennsylvania. After serving one term he was 
again appointed, remaining two years, and, and in 
March. 1869, was selected, by President Grant, 
to again till that position, which he resigned in 
December, 1872. His sou, John H. , is a lawyer 
and a credit to his father. 



*jr\EV. JAMES HENRY SNOWDEN, pastor 
|W7 of the Second Presbyterian Church, of 

I V Washington, was born in Hookstown, Bea- 
Jj » verCo., Penn., October 18,1852. He is a 
v son of William and Violetta (Thayer) 

Saowden, both natives of Hancock county, W. Va., 
whence they removed to Hookstown, Penn., and 
from there, in 1865, to Wellsville, Ohio, where Ihey 
still reside. Mr. Suowden being engaged in the 
wall paper business. 

The subject of this memoir received his primary 
education in the country school of his native place. 
and in the Wellsville High School. He early de 
veloped remarkable mechanical gifts, and while a 
lad constructed a small working steam engine. 
which he still keeps with pride. In his youth he 
worked in his father's cabinet-making shop, and 
virtually acquired this trade. His deeper inclina- 
tion, however, led him to seek a higher education. 
After teaching a year in the Wellsville common 
school, and preparing himself in Greek, he entered 
Washington and Jefferson College in the fall of 
1872. Here he took high rank as a student, in 
his senior year won the debate on the annual con- 
test, and graduated with the first honorof his class 
in 1875. In the fall of the same year he entered 
the Western Theological Seminary at Allegheny, 
Penn., where he maintained his high scholarship, 
receiving two prizes of 1100 each for superior pro- 
ficiency in Hebrew, and where he graduated in 
1878. 

Mr. Snowden was licensed to preach by the 
Presbytery of Steubenville, April 24, 1877. Hav- 
ing received a call from the church of Huron, Ohio, 
he was ordained and installed pastor by the Pres- 
bytery of Huron on May 6, 1879. In this charge 
he remained four years, when he accepted a call 
from the Presbyterian Church, of Sharon, Penn. 
After a successful pastorate of three years in this 
field, he accepted a call, in 1886, from the Second 
Presbyterian Church, of Washington, his present 
charge. His ministry in this important church 
has been remarkably blessed. During the last four 
years nn average of nearly one hundred accessions 
a year hav*j been added to its membership, which 




has grown during the present pastorate from 375 
to 650 members, crowding the auditorium of the 
new church to its utmost capacity. This is now 
the largest church of any denomination in Wash 
ington county. 

On August 1, 1878, Mr. Snowden was united in 
marriage with Miss Mary A. Ross, daughter of 
William and Abigail Ross, of Wellsville, Ohio. 
Three children have come to bless their home: 
Grace, born in Huron, Ohio, May 23, 1879; Roy 
Ross, born in Sharon, Penn., April 22, 1885; and 
Harold Winters, horn in Washington, Penn., Jan 
uary2, 1889. 

Mr. Snowden has a fine library, and has read 
widely in modern science and English literature. 
His sermons are clear and logical, popular and 
practical, containing many short sentences and 
striking statements of truth, and abounding in il 
lustrations drawn from literature and life. 



( ILLIAM P. CHERRY, sheriff of Wash- 
ington county, was born May 8, 1839, in 
MountPleasant township. He is a grand- 
son of Edward Cherry, who was a native 
of Scotland, having emigrated to Wash 
ington county at an early day. 

Aaron Cherry, father of subject, was born on a 
farm in "Cherry Valley," Washington county, and 
learned the carpenter' sand cooper's trades. When 
a young man he was married to Margaret, daughter 
of John Benward, of Lancaster county. Mr. and 
Mrs. Cherry began wedded life on a farm in Mt. 
Pleasant township. After raising a large family, 
they moved to Urichsville, Ohio, where he followed 
his trade in connection with farming, making a 
specialty of violins and other fine musical instru- 
ments. He was a member of the U. P. Church, 
and died at Urichsville, in 1875. at the age of six 
ty-tive years. The old house is yet standing, and 
the mantels, which are in an excellent state of pies 
ervation. are fine specimens of his handiwork. A 
part of the home is owned by his brother Edward 
P., who died in December, 1892. Since then that 
portion has become the property of our subject. 

William P. Cherry grew to manhood on the farm 
in Mt. Pleasant township, then learned the wagon 
and carriage making business at Hickory, Wash- 
ington county. He first began business at Clokey- 
ville, Washington county; then worked two years 
at Noblestown, being afterward in the employ of 
John Hallam, of Washington, for a time. In 
August, 1862, he enlisted in Company F, One 
Hundred and Thirty ninth P. V. I., under Col. 
Caldyer, of Pittsburgh. He took part in the fol- 
lowing engagements: second battle of Bull Run, 
Harper's Ferry, Antietam, Fredericksburg and 
Gettysburg, his regiment having been badly broken 
during the last mentioned battle. At the battle 



134 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



of Mine Run, December 1, 1863, he was struck- in 
the left breast by a minie-ball, which passed through 
the lung and Lodged in his hack, where it has yet 
remained, and still causes him some trouble. In 
1863 he was captured by the enemy, and first 
taken to Belle Isle, where he was confined three 
months, then to Andersonville prison, where he re- 
mained seven months, thence to Savannah, Ga., 
where he was exchanged and three months later 
went home on a furlough. Some time after he re- 
turned to his regiment, and remained until the 
close of the war. On December 25, 1865, he se- 
lected a life companion in the person of Harriet 
E., daughter of John and Mary McBane. who 
came from Soot-land to Pittsburgh, Penn., where 
he died. To the union of William P. and Harriet 
E. Cherry four children were born, namely: Ade- 
laide, who died in infancy; Birdie S. ; Lillian, and 
William, a graduate of Washington Business Col- 
lege, and now assistant deputy for his father. In 
186(1 Mr. Cherry was foreman of the Penn St. R. 
R. line, occupying that position for some time. 
Mr. Cherry left Pittsburgh and moved to West 
Liberty, Washington Co., Penn., in 1869, where 
he wurked as a journeyman; then opened a general 
carriage business at, Sodom, Allegheny Co., Penn.; 
thence he moved to Houstonville, Penn., and con-' 
ducted an extensive business for eight years; 
then moved to East Bethlehem township, and 
conducted business for seven years. In 18NS he 
was appointed deputy sheriff under George B. 
Lockhart, and in 1891 became sheriff of Washing- 
ton county, which position he is now occupying. 
Sheriff Cherry has filled township offices, and is a 
member of William Harton Post. No. 519, G. A. 
R., at Centreville He is also a member of the 
U. V. TJ., and of the I. 0. O. F. In church rela- 
tions he is identified with the Jefferson Avenue 
M. E. Church. 



DR. BRADLEY MINTON. Among (he rep 
I resentative thorough business men and 
/ wide-awake citizens of Claysvillc. this 
gentleman stands second to none. 
He is a worthy native of the county, having 
been born in 1843, on a farm in Morris township. 
where his early life was passed. He received his 
education at, the common schools of the district and 
at (he high schools of -the county. In 1862 he 
commenced the study of medicine with Dr. Whittle 
sey, of Washington, this county, remaining under 
his able preceptorship several years, and when 
thoroughly prepared, commenced the practice of 
his profession in Lawrence county, Perm., where he 
remained seven years, and then removed to 
Wayneslmrgh, Greene Co. , same State, and here 
continued practice until 1876, in which year he 
purchased a drugstore ill Claysville, the business 



of which has increased from year to year, till to- 
day it is unsurpassed, in cpiantity and quality of 
stock, in the county. 

While a resident of Lawrence county, the 
Doctor was united in marriage with Mattie E. Gere, 
who died April 25. 1889, leaving no children, and 
on August 13, 1891, he was again wedded, on this 
occasion to Mary L., daughter of John R. Ander- 
son, of Donegal toweship. Since becoming a resi- 
dent of Claysville. Dr. Minton has been deeply in 
forested in the growth and prosperity of the 
place, and has given material aid to all worthy 
enterprises. Since its organization, he has been 
identified with the Monongahela National Bank at 
Pittsburgh, arid has been interested in the well- 
known drug house of L. H. Harris & Co.. of that 
city. On the establishment of the First, National 
Bank of Claysville, in April, 1890, he was elected 
president, a position he has filled until the present 
time with eminent, satisfaction to all concerned. 
The Doctor has been a lifelong Democrat, and has 
always taken an active interest, in the affairs of the 
parly, having creditably served in several offices of 
honor and trust, in the borough of Claysville. 



Tf AMES SANSOM ALEXANDER, banker and 
. I member of the firm of Alexander & Co., third 
\( J I son of Joseph and Mary (Jones') Alexander, 
was born in Williamsport (now Monongahela) 
August 28, 1828. He was partly educated at 
Blake"s and Hazzard's academies, in Williamsport, 
finishing his education at Washington College. 
He then entered his father's store as a clerk, 
eventually becoming a partner, and has since, 
through a long term of service, been thoroughly 
identified with the firm of Alexander & Co., in 
whose fortunes he has been an active and important 
factor. 

On January 16, 1859, Mr. Alexander was mar 
lied to Miss Susan Stoddard King, daughter of 
Samuel and Mary B. (Williams) King, of Dayton, 
Ohio. The father of Mrs. Alexander wasaman of 
importance in his community, an elder in the First 
Presbyterian Church of Dayton, and was highly 
esteemed as a Christian and a gentleman. Part 
of Dayton is built on the farm he patented. Mr. 
and Mrs. Alexander are members of the First 
Presbyterian Church of Monongahela. They have 
four children: Mary E.. Harriet K, William H. 
(with Alexander & Co.) and Frederick K. (teller of 
the Fort Pitt, National Bank. Pittsburgh). 

The subject of this sketch has devoted himself 
mainly to domestic and business affairs. He has 
traveled considerably, and is a frequent visitor to 
the Eastern cities, where he has a large circle of 
acquaintances, but his pleasures lie chiefly in his 
family circle and in his library. In all matters 
pertaining to the practical progress of the com- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



137 



inanity betakes an active interest; but valuing the 
independence of a private citizen, generally de- 
clines any public office, although he has served as 
clerk of the councils and as treasurer of the school 
board; he is now president of the board of deacons 
and trustees of the First Presbyterian Church. 
Mr. Alexander's life lias been and is yet devoted to 
business; with unusual health, industry and ability 
he has for years given vigorous attention to the 
affairs of Alexander & Co., and is always to be 
found at the counter, ever ready and prompt to 
meet the demands of the times. 

ALEXANDER. The first of the Alexander 
family in Washington county, of whom there is 
any record, was one Elias Alexander, who was 
born in 1(580, and died in 1780. His son, Isaac, 
was born December 1(5, 1715. Isaac had one son, 
Joseph, born in Maryland July 9, 1765, and died 
in Ohio July 9, 1847. Joseph married Rose Ann 
Jones, also a native of Maryland, born October 17, 
17(55. and died in Ohio in 1850. She was a sister 
of William Jones, who lived near Ginger Hill, 
Washington county. 

Joseph and Rose Ann (Jones) Alexander had 
nine children: Elizabeth (Betsy), Sally, Mary 
(Polly), Hannah, Joseph (of whom special mention 
will lie made hereafter), Elijah, James S., Bela and 
Rose Ann. Of these Betsy and Polly married two 
brothers named Sheplar, uncles of Capt. Joseph 
Sheplar, of Rostraver township, Westmoreland Co., 
Penn. The Slieplars moved to northern Ohio on 
or near the Maumee river, about the year 1845, 
having previous to that time lived in Holmes county, 
Ohio. Elijah Alexander died at the age of nine- 
teen, unmarried. Hannah married Benjamin 
Thomas, lived in Westmoreland county, and died 
August 9, 18(53. James S. was married twice, his 
first wife being Miss Elizabeth Bailey (the name of 
second wife can not be given at present writing). 
His children by first marriage were: John Bailey. 
Drummond. Martha, James, Alvira, Julia, and a 
daughter who died in infancy. Of these children 
Alvira married James Mills, one of the editors of 
the Pittsburgh Post. Bela Alexander was born in 
Belmont county, Ohio, and married a Miss Barnes 
(both now deceased). Rose Ann Alexander mar 
ried John Moseley (both now deceased). 

Of this family the direct progenitor of the sub 
jects proper of this memoir was Joseph (the fifth 
child), who was born at Ten-Mile Creek. Washing 
ton Co., Penn.. April 1, 1795. and died at Monon- 
gahela June 20, 1871. On March 8, 1819, he was 
married, by Rev. John White, to Mary Jones 
(daughter of William Jones, of Washington county. 
Penn.), who died August 15, 1856 They had 
eight children: William Jones (of whom mention 
will be made farther on). Rose Ann (born March 
5. 1822, married to Dr. Nelson A. Adams), Eliza 
(born in Westmoreland county, April 3, 1824, mar 



ried December 28, 1846, to Capt. David B. Herron), 
Elijah Bascom (born in Westmoreland county. 
May 6, 1826, died June 29, 1827), James Sanson) 
(mention of whom will be made farther on), Mary 
Emeline (born in Williamsport, now Monongahela, 
April 15, 1831, died October 5, 18S9), Amanda 
Malvina (born at Williamsport April 29, 1833, 
died April 9, 1854), and Hannah Theresa (born at 
Williamsport December 31, 1835, died March 13, 
1843). 

The early life of Joseph Alexander was spent on 
the farm on Ten-Mile creek, later on a farm in 
Rostraver township, Westmoreland county. Sub 
sequently the family moved to Barnesville, Ohio, 
where he received such education as the time and 
place afforded, and it is apparent that lie profiled 
by these opportunities, and was fairly well edu 
cated for his time and circumstances. During his 
life in Barnesville his father was interested in 
teaming and transporting supplies for United States 
troops, then engaged in the war of 1812. Joseph 
was then employed by his father as a teamster, 
and among his associates and companions was Tom 
Oorwin, who became famous in after years as a 
statesman, serving as governor of Ohio, United 
States senator, etc. Oorwin was employed by 
Joseph's father also as a teamster, the two boys 
occupying the same room. After marriage he set- 
tled on a farm in Rostraver township, Westmore 
land county, where William, Rose Ann, Eliza and 
Elijah were born. In 1828 he moved to Williams 
port (now Monongahela) and entered into the mer- 
cantile business, living there until the time of his 
death in 1871, with the exception of two years be 
tween April 1, 1.829, to April 1, 1831, during which 
interval he resided in Cookstown (now Favette 
City). 

Joseph Alexander was prominently identified 
with the moral, social and business interests of 
Monongahela, serving frequently as a member of 
council, and school board. He was a member and 
trustee of the M. E. Church; was an original stock- 
holder, and among the first managers of Williams 
port Bridge Company. His long and honorable 
career as a merchant gave him a wide acquaintance 
in Washington and adjacent counties, and his 
frank and manly traits of character, as well as his 
uprightness and native kindness, won for him the 
esteem and affection of a large circle of friends. 
For a long period (since 1850) he was associated 
in business with his sons, under the firm of Alex- 
ander & Co. , at first in mercantile and subsequently 
in banking business. 

Joseph Alexander was progressive and enter 
prising in all hisefforts; and in the various positions 
of honor and trust he occupied was always zealous 
and faithful. He was a member of the school 
board at the time of the building of the school- 
house on Chess street, now occupied as a primary 



138 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



school, and was earnest in advocating the impor- 
tance of the new building which met with consider- 
able opposition, giving much of his time and per- 
sonal attention in superintending the erection of 
the building. He was also a member of the board 
of trustees of the M. E. Church at the time of the 
erection of the present edifice (as well as the edi- 
fice preceding it, which was erected in 1833), and 
although then advanced in years and in feeble 
health gave liberally and was active and earnest 
in his efforts in behalf of the movement. He was 
a man of uncompromising integrity and of strong 
convictions — fearless and aggressive in the expres- 
sion of his opinions and unhesitatingly champion- 
ing any cause which he believed to be right. He 
was one of the first to avow anti-slavery and aboli- 
tion sentiments, at a time when such ideas were by 
no means regarded with favor. During the war of 
the Rebellion he was fervently loyal to the 
United States Government, and fiercely intolerant 
of any other sentiments. Ho died at the .age of 
seventy-six — after a life of honest purpose and 
honest industry, his declining years having been 
spent in comfort and ease amongst his children, 
six of whom were living, all in the course of 
honorable and successful careers; his sons follow- 
ing along the same lines of life that he had trod 
with ability and success, but with ampler means 
and more extended interests. 

William J. Alexander, Monongahela, is the 
eldest son of Joseph and Mary (Jones) Alexander, 
and the senior member of the firm of Alexander & 
Co., bankers, Monongahela. 

When the subject of this sketch was eight years 
old his father removed to Williamsport (now Mo- 
nongahela), entered into the mercantile business 
and lived there until his death, with the exception 
of two years spent in Cookstown (now Fayette 
City). The education of William J. Alexander 

was such as was usually obtained at the com u 

subscription schools of that day, and early in life 
(in 1836) he began his business career in Pitts- 
burgh, under the employ of Andrew Pierce. How- 
ever, his term of service in Pittsburgh was of short 
duration, for his father requiring his assistance in 
the business in Monongahela, he came home and 
entered his father's store, where the advantage of 
his energy and capacity were soon manifest. In 
the spring of 1843 he became the junior partner of 
J. Alexander & Son, which copartnership continued 
until the present firm of Alexander & Co. was or- 
ganized in 1850, the style remaining unchanged 
since that date. In the early days of his business 
career his father, quick to recognize and acknowl 
edge the son's practical business ability, and hav- 
ing firm faith in his sagacity and persevering in- 
dustry, yielded to him the responsible manage 
incut of the business from the time he was admitted 
into partnership. Since that date to the present 



time he has been actively engaged in business, and 
has been the recognized head of the firm of Alex 
ander & Co., which under his lead has achieved its 
present success and enviable reputation, making 
fifty years of active business life. On November 
14. 1844, William J. Alexander was married to 
Eliza Morrison, daughter of John and Margaret 
(Porter) Morrison. 

Prior to the year 1N(>4, the firm of Alexander & 
Co. conducted the dry-goods business in connection 
with banking. During that year the dry-goods 
interests were disposed of, and the business has 
since been exclusively banking. The firm is now 
(January, 1893) composed of William J. Alexander, 
James S. Alexander and Joseph Alexander Herron. 

While Mr. Alexander has given his earnest and 
active attention to his varied business interests, he 
has from his earliest manhood been more or less 
engaged in the promotion of every practical proj- 
ect for improving the material, moral and educa 
tional welfare of the community in which he has 
lived. He has been an active participant in the 
management of municipal and educational matters, 
and has enjoyed to a rare degree the esteem and 
confidence of his fellow-townsmen, as has been 
testified to, in numerous elections. In 1888, the 
unusual compliment was paid to him of the nomi- 
nation as controller by both parties. He is now 
president of the Monongahela Gas Company; has 
been identified with the management of the Mo- 
nongahela cemetery since the inception of the en 
terprise twenty six years ago; has been a member 
and officer in the First Presbyterian Church for 
nearly fifty years. Throughout the great Rebellion 
he was prompt and earnest in all his duties as a 
loyal citizen. He served as captain of Company 
G, Eighteenth Regiment, Pennsylvania Militia of 
1802 (an organization called out by Gov. Curtin 
to meet an exigency of the war), and served with 
his regiment on the borders of Pennsylvania and 
Maryland during the last days of the memorable 
campaign which closed by the repulse and defeat 
of the rebel forces under Lee at South Mountain 
and Antietam. Capt. Alexander's company was 
recruited in Monongahela, and was composed en- 
tirely of his neighbors and friends. There were 
eighty-two officers and men mustered into the 
United States service in Company G, etc., and of 
these thirty-three are known to be dead, with date 
and placeof death; twenty-two are now (1893) res 
idents of Monongahela; twenty seven reside out- 
side of Monongahela, most of their residences 
known. The names of the survivors residing in 
Monongahela are Alexander, William J. ; Boyd, 
Reese; Blythe, James; Blvthe, John; Collins, 
Thomas; Corrin, Edward: Finley, J. Barclay; 
Graham, A. V.; Gibson, Henry; Linn, Dr. George 
A. ; Lawrence, Hon. George V. ; McCurdy, T. Stock- 
ton; McGrew, James; Patterson, John; Robinson, 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



141 



Joseph C. ; Smith, A. Mason; Wilson, S. Clark; 
King, Richard C. ; Wilson, William H. ; Kennedy, 
James; Van Voorhis, Clinton; Long, J. K. 

While the subject of this sketch lias traveled 
much, and is familiar with most points of interest 
in his country, his life and habits have been es : 
sentially domestic. Mr. and Mrs. Alexander have 
no children, but their family circle was enlarged 
and enlivened by the presence of the three brothers 
of Mrs. Alexander — Joseph, Andrew and Dr. M. 
P. Morrison. \Vhile the two former were practic- 
ing lawyers in Pittsburgh, yet most of their leisure 
was spent at their Monongahela City home, which 
being almost contiguous to the Alexander residence, 
during the life of the Morrison brothers their in- 
timate relations and almost daily society made a 
family circle of congenial, cultivated and delight- 
ful intercourse. 

In the pursuit of Mr. Alexander's well-known 
musical and literary tastes, he has accumulated a 
valuable library, to which is now added the eollec 
tions of Joseph, Andrew and M. P. Morrison, all 
of whom were collectors of books, of cultivated in 
telligenee and tastes. The collection now contains 
many rare and valuable old editions, and editions 
de lux?, besides old manuscripts of interest and 
value. From this collection it has been the pleasure 
of Mr. and Mrs. Alexander to donate to the Car- 
negie Library of Allegheny the rare and valuable 
edition of "Audubon's Birds of America." We 
refer to two of the many notices of this gift. The 
Pittsburgh Daily Post of September 3, 1891, says: 
" The arrangements were concluded on yesterday 
between W. J. Alexander, the well-known banker 
of Monongahela City, and Librarian Stevenson of 
the Carnegie Free Library of Allegheny, for the 
donation to the library of t lit* most valuable single 
work, so far, which it has been the rare good fort 
une of the institution to receive. The work is 
the famous ''Audubon's Birds of America." The 
donors are Mrs. William J. Alexander, of Monon- 
gahela City, and Miss Sarah H. Patterson, of 
Allegheny. The work presented is one of great 
value on account of its excellent preservation, fine 
condition, great scarcity and a demand that can not 
be supplied at even great prices. There are about 
500 plates over 3x2 feet, and contain the life-size 
paintings of the largest birds. There are seven 
volumes quarto of the text 'as good as new.' 
Mr. Alexander refused all offers from the Carnegie 
Free Library, as well as all others, for the pur- 
chase of the work, preferring to donate it for the 
use of the public; and the generous gift will doubt- 
less be appreciated by all." The Boston Tran- 
8cript says: " The Carnegie Free Library in Alle 
gheny, Penn., has become the fortunate possessor 
of Audubon's 'Birds of America,' the gift of 
Mrs. William J. Alexander, of Monongahela City. 
The work is one of considerable rarity and of great- 



value, copies of the original editional selling at 
from $2,500 to $4,000. It is not generally known 
that the great naturalist's daughters live in the 
old homestead near Audubon Park, overlooking the 
Hudson. They were once possessed of consider 
able wealth, but it, was lost through unfortunate in 
vestments, and they are now in somewhat strait 
eued circumstances. Some of the big handsome 
plates from which Audubon's monumental work was 
printed are preserved in the Museum of Natural 
History in Central Park.'' 

■ In conclusion. Mr. Alexander is still engaged in 
business, but has reached that period of life, when 
he must necessarily give less attention to details. 
By sound and conservative business methods, be 
has acquired ample means; and while business still 
demands some time and attention, the principal 
portion of his time is now spent at his home and 
in his library. 



HE MORRISON FAMILY. The profes- 
sional, social and personal history of Mo- 
nongahela City would be incomplete with- 
out a sketch of the Morrison Brothers, whose 
^ personality has been so long familiar, and 
still so fresh, in the recollection of most of our 
citizens; and whose memory is so much revered and 
cherished by them. 

They were the sons of John Morrison, who was 
born in 1789, near Londonderry, Ireland, whence 
he emigrated to the United States about 1811, set- 
tling near the Mingo Creek Presbyterian church. 
On February 29, IS'_'0, he married Margaret Por- 
ter, daughter of Mathew and Elizabeth Porter, 
who resided on a farm about two miles from Will 
iamsport (now Monongahela), Penn. A short time 
after their marriage they removed to a farm situ 
ated two and one-half miles above Elizabeth, Alle- 
gheny Co., Penn., on the Monongahela river. On 
this farm all the children of John and Margaret 
(Porter) Morrison were born. This farm was sold 
by Mr. Morrison in the spring of 1837, at which 
time he removed to Monongahela, Washington 
county, with his family, purchased real estate and 
made it their future permanent home. Mr. Mor- 
rison died October Pi, 1837, aged forty-eight years, 
leaving his widow (Margaret) with a family of six 
children, all of whom have passed to the other side, 
with the exception of Eliza, the eldest child, born 
January 11, 1821, and married to William J. Alex 
ander, of Monongahela, November 14, 1844. Mrs. 
Alexander is the last living representative of her 
generation of the Morrison family. 

Mrs. Margaret (Porter) Morrison (born Novem- 
ber, 1798), after having lived to educate her fam- 
ily (excepting James Oust who died in infancy), 
and see them grow up around her to adult age 
under her own guidance and example, becoming 



142 



II .\sitl.X<;TOX COUNTY. 



useful and honored citizens, and members of so- 
ciety; enjoying their love and tenderness through 
a long and happy life, passed peacefully away, 
September IS, 1882, aged eighty four years. The 
children of John and Margaret (Porter) Morrison 
were as follows: Eliza, born January 11, 1821; 
Joseph Scott, born July 5, 1824, died April 20, 
1886; Mathew Porter, born December 14, 1826, 
died November 10, 1885; Andrew Porter, born 
November 2, 1829, died November 5, 1890; Jane, 
burn December 8, 1832, died February 17, 1871; 
James Cust, born September 15, 1835, died Octo 
ber6, 1837. 

Joseph Scott Morrison graduated at Washing 
ton College, Washington, Penn., in the class of 
1844; read law with Hon. T. M. T. McKennau; 
admitted to the Washington county bar 1847; 
shortly after became a member of the Allegheny 
county bar at, Pittsburgh, Penn., where he prac 
ticed law up to the time of his death, April 20, 1 886. 

Andrew Porter Morrison graduated at Wash- 
ington College in the class of 1849; read law with 
his brother Joseph, and with Judge William Mc- 
Kennau, from 1852 to 1854. He was associated 
in the practice of law with his brother, Joseph S., 
at Pittsburgh, from 1854 to 1861. On May 1, 1861, 
lie enlisted in Company A, Ninth Regiment Penn 
sylvania Reserve Volunteer Corps; was made a cor 
poral, and was promoted July, 1862, to be ser- 
geant-major; was desperately wounded at the 
battle of South Mountain, September 14, 1862; 
was mustered nut with his regiment May 12, 1864. 
He was historian of the Ninth Regiment of Penn- 
sylvania Reserves. At the dedication of the 
Gettysburg Monument, his address elicited high 
encomiums as a carefully prepared and accurate 
historical paper. After the war, Major Morrison 
resumed the practice of law, associated (as 
formerly) with his brother Joseph, until the death 
of the latter in 1886, afterward conducting the prac- 
tice alone. Having been warned of the dangers 
of heart trouble, he gradually gave up his law 
practice, refusing new business, and rapidly clos- 
ing up his docket, when suddenly overtaken by 
death. On September 11, 1866, he was married to 
Miss Rebecca S. H. Davis, of Allegheny. Resid- 
ing in Allegheny, he and his wife became members 
of the North Presbyterian Church, then under the 
care of Dr. A. A. Hodge. After the de;ith of his 
wife (born in 1839. died September' 5. 1X77) he re- 
turned to the old family homestead in Mononga- 
hela City, which was his earthly home until his 
departure for the heavenly, whither he was pre- 
ceded by his home circle, except his greatly beloved 
sister Eliza, the wife of William J. Alexander, 
Esq. Major Morrison changed his membership 
from Allegheny to the First Presbyterian Church, 
Monongahela City. September 8, 1878. By the 
unanimous voice of his church associates he was 



elected a ruling elder, which office, after due con- 
sideration, he accepted, and was ordained March 
31, 1889. Andrew 1'. Morrison was a man of the 

| highest type; the moral atmosphere whicli sur 
rounded him was pure, the example he set was 
helpful. His instincts were all gentle; his manner 
urbane; his friendship as true as gold; his career 
was that of honorable manhood, respected citizen- 
ship, unquestioned morality and professional in 
tegrity. 

Dr Mathew Porter Morrison. As a fitting 
sketch, we take the liberty to make the following 
extracts from a paper prepared by Rev. William O. 
Campbell, D. D., for a memorial volume of Dr. 
Morrison, late of Monongahela. He received his 
first academic training at home in the academy 
conducted by the Rev. E. S. Blake, and T. R. 
Hazzard. Esq. He was a graduate of Washington 
College in the class of 1847. Among his class 
mates were the Hon. James G. Blaine; John H. 
Hampton, of Pittsburgh: Alexander Wilson. Esq., 
of Washington. Penn.; Hon. William H. H. Pusey, 
of Iowa, and Dr. John H. Storer, of West Vir- 
ginia. After leaving college he was engaged in 
teaching school for a short time at home. Having 
read a course of medicine with Dr. Samuel M. 
King, he attended a full course of lectures for two 
years at Jefferson College, Philadelphia, and re- 
ceived his degree of "Doctor of Medicine " in the 
spring of 1851. He subsequently attended special 
courses of lectures, and hospital practice, in Phil 
adelphia and Boston. In May, 1851, he opened 
an office for the practice of his profession at the 
"Old Home'' in Monongahela. Not long after- 
ward he became associated in practice, as a part- 
ner, with Dr. R. F. Biddle. When the war of the 
Rebellion broke out, Dr. Morrison joined the Union 
army in the field, August 6, 1861, as assistant sur- 
geon of the One Hundred and Second Regiment. 
Pennsylvania Volunteers, Col. Rowley's "Old 
Thirteenth.'' He was promoted to surgeon with 
the rank of major September 12, 1862, and at the 
close of the war was mustered out June 28. I865j 
being at the time surgeon of the Second Division 
of the Sixth Corps. His professional life covers 
a period of nearly thirty five years of active and 
arduous practice — all, save the four years in the 
army, among his friends and neighbors in the vi- 
cinity of the " Old Home." Col. Hazzard. in The 

i Republican, gave expression to the feelings of 
many hearts when he penned this tribute to his 
memory: "Of his worth as a friend; his judgment 
and sagacity as a physician; his learning as a 
scholar; his integrity and nobility of character in 
the walks of civil life; and of his devotion to his 
country as a soldier; his warm-hearted friendship; 
his stern adherence to right living and thinking; 
of the warm place he held in the hearts of the fam- 
ilies he visited, both as physician and friend — of 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



143 



these things, we need not speak — they are the 
choicest memories of this sad hour in a thousand 
hearts. Dr. M. P. Morrison brought to his pro- 
fession a mind thoroughly familiar with the prin- 
ci [ill's and practice of medicine. He honored the 
profession in which he was eminently successful. 
His death brings a genuine sorrow, brightened only 
by the words which his lips framed almost with his 
last breath, 'Not my will, but Thine.'' Extract 
from a letter of Hon. J. Gr. Blaine: "It was a 
great surprise and personal sorrow to me. Though 
we have seen each other but twice since our grad- 
uation (more than thirty eight years ago), I have a 
strong impression of his qualities of mind and 
heart, and a vivid recollection of his person. He 
was a gentle spirit — kind, considerate and gener- 
ous -tenderly regarded by his class-mates. I al- 
ways felt he had chosen wisely in his profession. 
I can well imagine that his ministrations in the 
sick ro mi were a great solace to patients. To lose 
such a brother must be a lasting grief, and I ten 
der you my sincere condolence." 



JONES FAMILY. William Jones sailed from 
the port of Baltimore in 1709 (his son Will 
j iam being then six years old), and the vessel 
was never afterward heard from. The son, 
William Jones, was born May 3, 1703, at Ellicott's 
Mills, Md., and died March 14, 1803. He was 
married April 23, 1789, to Elizabeth McClung, 
who was born November 24, 1709, and died Jan- 
uary 27, 1829. About 1791 they emigrated from 
Maryland to Washington county, l'enn., near Gin- 
ger Hill, six miles from Monongahela, where they 
settled on a farm on which they passed the remain- 
der of their days, and which farm is still owned by 
a son, William McKendree Jones. They had 
twelve children, viz.: (1) John Jones, born in Ma- 
ryland, May 23, 1790, died July 16, 1875; was 
twice married, first time to Rachel Frew; second 
time to Margaret Blaine, who was born October 12, 
1805, and died October 29, 1890; by his first mar- 
riage he had six children: William (married to Miss 
West), James (married to a Miss Cleaver), Eliza- 
beth (married to David Ritchie), Joseph (married 
to a Miss Watkins), David (married to Miss Phil- 
lips), Samuel V. Cook (deceased, married to Miss 
Gregg), Polly (married to Manuel Stoody). By 
his second marriage Mr. Jones had two children — 
Rachel and Jennie. (2) Elijah Jones, born in 
Maryland November 20, 1791, died June 15, 1855; 
was married to Mary Warren, and their children 
were William (married to a Miss Frye), Eliza Jane 
(married to John M. Bedall), Margaret (married to 
John S. Carson), James (married to a Miss Van 
Voorhis), Wesley (married in the West), Isaac 
(married to a Miss Mcllvaine), Noah (married to a 
Miss Frye). (3) Mary Jones, born November 1, 



1793, died August 15, 1850; married March 8, 
1819, to Joseph Alexander, who was born April 1, 
1795. (4) Ruth Jones,, born September 4, 1795, 
died January 22, 1892. (5) Delilah Jones, born 
February 1 1", I 797, died July 22, 1882; married to 
James Mills, who was born in 1801, died May 23, 
1878, and their children were William (deceased), 
Andrew Bascom (died May 14, 1888, married to 
— Deering), Mary (married to a Mr. Dalby), 
Rebecca (married to Rev. Dr. Watkins), James 
(married), Charles S., Wilbur Fisk (married). 
(6) Jesse Jones, born December 24, 1798, died 
February 11, 1888; married Eleanor Frew, and 
their children were Alexander (deceased), Jackson 
(married to Miss Black), Elizabeth (married to 
Rev. Mr. Snyder), Charles (married), Carrie B. 
(married), Nancy (married to a Mr. Rankins, now 
deceased), Jesse (died June 21, 1888), Ellen (mar- 
ried to Mr. McDonald, and now deceased); others 
have been lost sight of in the West. (7) Samuel 
Jones, born August 25, 1SO0, accidentally killed 
June It, 1867; was twice married, first time to 
Jane Fell, and for his second wife to Mary Thomas; 
the children by his first wife were William (mar- 
ried to a Miss Sheplar), S. Fell (married to a Miss 
Thomas), Mary (married to a Dr. Watkins, both 
deceased), and James (married to a Miss Finley). 
By the second marriage Mr. Jones had children as 
follows: Elizabeth, Melissa, Retta, Amanda, Homer, 
Luther, John and Celia. (8) Rebecca Jones, born 
March 8, 1802, died July 3, 1838; married Andrew 
Mills, and had one child, James Mills, editor of 
the Pittsburgh Post, who married Elvira Alexan- 
der. (9) Rose Ann Jones, born May 4, 1804, died 
September, 1870; married Francis Hull Williams, 
and their children were Elizabeth (married to 
Greer Mcllvaine), Elmira, John W., William, David, 
James and Harvey. (10) Elizabeth Jones, born 
January 15, 1800; died in September, 1830; mar 
ried James McCauley, and their children were Ann 
Eliza anil Mary. (11) Ann Jones, born April 22, 
1808, died June 30, 1889; married John Hess, born 
1818, died 1883, and their children were John, 
Elizabeth, Westley, Alcinous, Amanda and Maggie. 
(12) William McKendree Jones, born October 29, 
1809, married Sarah Fulmer, who died in 1880; their 
children were Leonidas, Mary, Edward, James 
Mills, Margaret, Kate, Snyder, Albert, Florence 
and Rose. 

The children born to (2) Elijah and Mary (War- 
ren) Jones were as follows: (1) William, born in 
Fallowfield township, married Miss Eliza Jane 
Fry, and afterward moved to Brighton, Washing- 
ton Co., Iowa, and still resides there; their children 
are as follows: Samuel W., married to Rachel, 
daughter of Manuel Stoody, of this county; Mary, 
married to Mr. William Hide, of Washington 
county, Iowa; Henry, married to Miss McCain; 
Irilla Jane, married; Amy, married to Mr. John- 



144 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



son; Josephine, married; Delia (now deceased), 
married to Mr. Hedge. (2) Eliza Jane, married 
to John McCutchen Bedall, as already mentioned. 
(3) Margaret, married to Jobn S. Carson, both de- 
ceased (their children were eleven in number, as 
follows: Isaac, married to Miss Fry; Cornelius, 
married to Miss Beazell; John C. (now deceased), 
married to Miss Raymond; Henry, married to Miss 
Furnier; Robert F., married to Miss Odvert; Mary 
Elizabeth, deceased; Van Curtis, deceased; Mar- 
garet M., married to I. N. Carson; Caroline Jane 
(now deceased), married to J. W. Carson; Noah T., 
married to Miss Sprowls; and -Joseph, married to 
Miss Greenlee), (1) John West ley, married to Jane 
Davison, in Logan county, Ohio, and now living 
near Liuneus, Linn Co., Mo. (they have nine chil- 
dren, viz.: Margaret J., married to George Hide, 
of Brighton, Iowa; Arabelle, married to a Mr. Wat 
terhouse, in Iowa; Ella, married to a Mr. Hossick; 
James, married and living in Iowa; John C, living 
near Linneus, Mo. ; Annie Neal.also living near Lin- 
ueus,Mo. ; Helen, Hester and Isaac Willfred, unmar- 
ried and living at home). (5) James Jones (now de- 
ceased), married to Miss Van Voorhis, and had chil- 
dren. (O)Noah. married to Mary Fry, and their chil- 
dren are nine in number, as follows: John T. K., 
married to Miss Gamble; Florence C, married to Miss 
Bradley, in Missouri; Annie M., married to Mr. 
Huffman; Mortimore, married to Miss Huffman 
(now deceased); Eunice, married to Warren Gib- 
son; and Frank, Bert, Noah King, Lilley, all four 
unmarried. (7) Isaac Warren, married to Mary 
Agnes Mcllvaine; their childreu are as follows: 
DoraB., married to William Morrow; William, 
unmarried; Isaac L., married to Miss Itettig; Me 
Ilvaiue, Harry and Mary A., all three unmarried. 



FORREST, ROBERT R., RICHARD R. and 
J. 11., Washington. These gentlemen are de- 
scended from stalwart Scotch and English 
ancestors who came to America at an early 
date. The great-grandfather, Johnson, was a 
Doctor of Divinity in the classic city of Edinburgh, 
Scotland, and some of his books are still in the 
possession of his great-grandson Robert, It. Forrest. 
John Forrest, grandfather of the gentlemen 
whose names open this sketch, was born in Scot- 
laud, and was married in Edinburgh, the capital 
of that country, to Jean Johnson, who after his 
death came to America in 1839, and now lies in 
Allegheny cemetery ; her husband died in London, 
England. The two brothers of this John Forrest 
emigrated, in the early part of this century, to 
America, the one coming to Philadelphia, Penn., 
the other proceeding to a southern port. 

George Forrest, father of Robert R., Richard 
U and J. R. Forrest, was born November 21, 1803, 
in Penrith, County of Cumberland, England, 



which county, being on the border, was for a long 
time claimed by Scotland. He was married June 
12, 1826, in New Marylebone Church, Parish of 
Marylebone, London, England, to Alice Rhodes, 
who was born in the Parish of St. George, Lon- 
don, England, Jauuary 6, 1808, a daughter of 
Joshua Rhodes, a native of London, where he 
lived and died. In 1837 George Forrest and his 
brother Richard set out together with their fam 
ilies for America, and were six weeks crossing the 
Atlantic in a sailing vessel, which was reported 
lust. Landing at New York, and their destination 
being Richmond, Ind., they traveled by rail, canal 
and other modes to Allegheny City, where Rich 
aid's wife and two children died. The brothers 
then concluded to here remain. Richard, who was 
a marble cutter and sculptor, became foreman of 
the Wallace Marble Works, Pittsburgh, Penn. 
His last employer in the mother country had been 
Sir Francis Chantry, the eminent English sculptor, 
and he was in his employ at the time Allan Cunning 
ham, the author and sculptor, was foreman of the 
establishment, and Forrest's duties consisted in 
the placing of statuary for Chantry. About the 
year 1747 George Forrest and his family moved to 
Canonsburg, Washington county, and two years 
later came to Washington borough, where he 
worked at his trade, tailoring, until about the time 
of his death, which occurred March 28, 180fj, when 
he was aged sixty-three years. He was liberal of 
his means and charitably disposed; in politics he 
was a Democrat, in religion a Presbyterian; his 
widow was summoned from earth January 28, 
1885, in her seventy-eighth year; she was a member 
of the Methodist Episcopal Church. They were 
the parents of eight children — four born in Lon- 
don, England, and four in Allegheny, Penn. — 
Robert It. being the first of the family born this 
side of the Atlantic. They are as follows: Alice 
(Mrs. Boyle); Emma (wife of John B. Hallam); 
George; Jane (widow of Matthew Taylor), in South 
Strabane township; Robert It. , of whom a sketch 
follows; Mary (wife of John Munce), residing in 
Washington, Penn.; Richard It. and J. It. (sketches 
of whom follow). George Forrest bought 300 acres 
of land, on part of which the city of Kittanning, 
Penn., now stands, intending to settle there, but 
the country proved to be so wild he sold it before 
going to Canonsburg. 

Robert R. Forrest was born in Allegheny, Alle- 
gheny Co., Penn., October 12, 1S40. He came to 
Washington, Penn., with his parents, and attended 
the common schools of the place until he arrived 
at the age of sixteen years, when he entered Hayes' 
Carriage Factory as an apprentice, remaining until 
the breaking out of the Civil war. He then pro 
ceeded to Wheeling, W. Va. , where he was em- 
ployed on Government work, chiefly in the con- 
structing of ambulances, and he ironed the last 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



145 



twenty-five of that class of vehicle sent to the seat 
of war from Wheeling. In 1807 Mr. Forrest en- 
tered into partnership with James House, in the 
carriage-making business, in Washington, this 
county, putting up for the purpose the building 
qow occupied by R. B. McClure & Son on East 
Wheeling street. The style of the firm was House 
& Forrest, but about a year after commencing 
operations, Mr. Forrest sold out his interest to Mr. 
House and embarked in the brickmaking business 
in South Strabane township, which he still carries 
on, it having now been in existence some twenty 
years. The first brick made on his place were 
used in the construction of the jail, and it lias since 
supplied the brick for many prominent buildings, 
such as banks, seminaries, churches and private 
residences. He was also for a time engaged in 
conl ratting and building, in company with his 
brother, Richard R. In 1889 he commenced the 
erection of his own commodious house on the 
corner of Sumner avenue and Pitt street, one of 
the finest residences in the northern part of the 
city, and in November, 1890, moved into it. 

On April 15, 1869, Mr. Forrest was married in 
Washington to Miss Sarah M. Hayes, daughter of 
Charles Hayes, and granddaughter of George 
Kuntz, both of Washington. Six children were 
the result of this union, only two of whom survive: 
Sophia and Alice, both living at home Mr. For- 
rest and his family are members of the Second 
Presbyterian Church: politically lie votes the Dem 
ocratic ticket, and has frequently been solicited to 
accept office, but has invariably declined the honor. 
Well-known and popular in the community, Mr. 
Forrest stands high in the esteem and respect of 
his fellow-citizens. 

Richard Rhodes Forrest, contractor and builder, 
also florist and proprietor of greenhouses, in Wash 
iugton, was born April 14, 1841, in Allegheny, 
Allegheny Co., Penn. As will be seen, he was but a 
child when the family came to Washington. Here 
he received his education, being among the first pu- 
pils to attend the new Union schools. In 1859 he 
commenced to learn the trade of carriage body build- 
ing with S. B. & C. Hayes, serving an apprentice 
ship of nearly four years; then worked for John 
Hallam in building spring wagons. In September, 
L862, he enlisted in Company F, Sixth Regiment 
Pennsylvania Militia, and they were encamped at 
a point near Chambersburg, Perm., at the time the 
Confederate army learned the name of Antietam. 
Afterward, August 31, 1864, he enlisted in the 
army, in the Fifth Pennsylvania Heavy Artillery, 
Company F, was in at the death of the Confeder- 
acy, and was mustered out June 30, 1865. He 
became of age while in the army. 

Returning to this county, he immediately re- 
sumed his trade, his first work being the building 
of a coach for James House, called the "Queen of 



the Road,' - which was run between Washington 
(Penn.) and Pittsburgh. Afterward he removed to 
the site where now stands the carriage factory of 
R. B. McClure & Son. Later he sold out to James 
House, who became a partner with his brother, 
Robert R., in the same line of business, and for 
them he worked a considerable length of time, 
constructing windmills, some sixty or seventy hav- 
ing been built. He then engaged with Hayes & 
Wilson, working on bodies for sewing machines, 
after which he became a partner for a time with 
E. J. Dye in contracting and building. He had 
previously put up many of the brick buildings in 
the borough, and on \\ est Beau street he erected 
a house which in itself is a curiosity. He made 
the molds and the brick himself for this house, 
each brick having a panel on it. In 187S he 
bought the property where he now resides, the 
grounds covering about twelve acres on the out- 
skirts of the borough. Some eight years ago he 
commenced gardening, building greenhouses for 
the cultivation of both vegetables and flowers, and 
to day he owns the largest conservatory in Wash 
ington. On March 13, 1S73. Mr. Forrest was 
united in marriage with Miss Theresa Mills, a 
native of Monongahela City, daughter of Andrew 
and Alice Mills, who both died in the borough of 
Washington. She had one sis^>r, who married, 
and two brothers, Harvey and .lames, the latter of 
whom is now editor of the Pittsburgh Post. 
I'o Mr. and Mrs. Forrest were born three sons, all 
of whom died in early childhood. They are bofh 
members of the First M. E. Church of Washing 
ton, and in politics he is in sentiment a Prohibi 
lionist, but votes independently and according to 
his own judgment. 

•I. H. Forrest, one of the prominent members 
of the bar of Washington county, was born in 
Allegheny, Allegheny Co., Penn., February 21, 
IS 17. He began life a poor boy, having to earn 
by the sweat of his brow the means to secure 
even a limited education, at first, in the common 
schools of his district. Still, applying himself as- 
siduously to work, he was enabled to take himself 
to the high school, from which he graduated, and 
he then attended Washington College three years. 
Our subject, having now completed his literary 
studies, commenced reading law in the office of 
Ruth & Hamilton, Washington, Penn., in which he 
remained three years, and in 1868 he was admitted 
to the bar. Mr. Forrest at once commenced the 
practice of his profession in the borough, and has 
since continued with eminent success. In Febru- 
ary, 1865, tired with the spirit of patriotism, he 
enlisted at New Brighton, Penn. , in Company H, 
Eighty- seventh P. V. I., which regiment was at- 
tached to the Sixth Army Corps. After partici- 
pating in the fighting around Richmond and 
Petersburg, which ended with the capture of Lee, 



14(5 



WASHINGTON CO UN TY. 



be was ordered with the Sixth Corps on a forced 
march to Danville, N. O, to cut off the retreat of 
Gen. Joe Johnston, and was present at his capture 
also. After the war closed Mr. Forrest was mus- 
tered out of the service in July, 1865. On Feb- 
ruary 21, 1871, Mr. J. R. Forrest was united in 
marriage with Miss Belle, daughter of the late 
Daniel Boyle, in his day a prominent stock dealer 
in North Strabane township, this county, and to 
this union have been born two children: Daniel ]!., 
now attending the sophomore class at college, and 
Earle R. Politically Mr. Forrest is a Democrat, 
and for the past ten years he has served as a justice 
of the peace. He has a strong penchant for litera- 
ture, and is a writer in verse of recognized ability 
and versatility. The majority of his best efforts 
have not yet been published, but doubtless will 
some day be given to the world in book form. 
Two of his poems are here presented: 

Till: LORD'S PRATER. 

Our Father who in heaven ait. 

Look kindly on Thy wayward child; 
Help me to chose the better part 

And save me from the fempter's wiles. 

All hallowed he Thy sacred name, 
Thy kingdom here on earth he made; 

Fill all the earth with holy flame, 
Till sin's corrupting hand be stayed. 

In love and peace Thy will be done, 
In every land Thy praise be heard; 

Till all on earth, aye, every one. 

Doth read and ponder o'er Thy word. 

Give me each day my daily bread, 
Thy tender hand relieve my care; 

It Thou, who hath the ravens fed, 
Will help me, I shall have no fear. 

Forgive my debts as I forgive 
The ones who do me grievous wrong; 

AS 1 let others, so let llle live. 

And always in Thy faith be strong. 

Let no temptation lead astray 
The wayward passions of the soul; 

Hut guide me in the better way, 
Aud save me from my own control. 

Deliver me from evil tide, 

Save me from its dire distress; 
i (pen the gates of mercy w ide, 

Where all is love and peacefulness. 

And when the light ot earthly Idiss, 
Fades from my weary closing eyes, 

May all tin- love thai here I miss, 
lie mine renewed beyond the skies. 

Thine be the glory evermore; 

Thj holy faith my best endeavor; 
And when forme this life is o'er, 

Take me to Thee and Thine forever. 

I. H. P. 

Washington, Penn., September 8, 1884. 

GATHERING HOME. 

In this neglected, quiet spot, 

Mid shadows soft ami drear; 
With tangled grass and creeping vines 

Aud running waters near; 



The old home grim and silent Btands — 

The tires, warm and bright. 
That cracked and blazed upon each hearth, 

Are dark and cold to-night. 
The winter's blast amid the trees, 

With low and solemn moan, 
liepeats the nightbird's mournful chant. 

Where once we gathered home. 

I look upon the doleful scene, 
The time-worn ruined place. 
Aud fail to find amid the wreck 

< >ne taint, familiar trace. 

It makes my heart o'erflow with ^rief, 

My tears I can't restrain. 
And o'er my bosom rolls a tide 

< >f sorrow, grief and pain. 

The past doth Hit before in\ mind 

Here once again I roam; 
And once again 1 hear the shout 

Of children gathering home. 

Again I see my mother come 

To meet me at the door, 
And welcome home her romping ones 

When school and work was o'er. 
Again I feel the grateful warmth 

That beamed from every smile, 
When she would stoop to soothe our grief, 

Our little WOeS beguile. 

I hear again, with quickened pulse, 
Ke echo from each stone 
, The happy, merry, gleeful laugh 

Of children gathering home. 

Those children who have long ago 

Grown up to man's estate, 
And wandered out into the world, 

To strive with varying fate; 
That mother who, these many years, 

Mid shadows soft and still, 
Hath folded up her tiled hands 

And sleeps upon the hill; 
That happy home, this crumbling wreck, 

Deserted, sad and lone, 
Repeat the legend, here no more, 

'• Will we come gathering home." 

No more within these crumbling walls. 

Where build the noisy birds. 
Will I behold my mother's form, 

Or hear her loving words. 
No more beneath this falling roof. 

Each widening gap doth tell, 
Will come again, with laugh and song, 

Those happy ones to dwell. 
No more, along these silent paths. 

Their merry feet will roam; 
Hut one by one — just over there 

They all will gather home. 

Washington, Penn., May 28, 1885. 



It If ON. WILLIAM MONTGOMERY was boru 
ILJ in Franklin township, Washington Co., 
Penn., April 11, 1819, and died in Canton 
II ^ township, April 28, 1870. 
v His father was William Montgomery, a 

native of Scotland, born in Ayrshire in 1792, aud 
was a relative of Sir James Montgomery. He re- 
moved from Virginia to Washington county, Penn., 
in 1817, and the same year married Elizabeth 




^yu2/ £"-^ 



iA^^i 




"*> 



Washington coUNfY. 



149 



Kelly. He .lied in 1858 leaving two children: 
William and Martha Jane. Martha married J. F. 
Linville, and now resides in New Oastle, Lawrence 
Co., Fenn. They have one sou, Montgomery 
Linville, M. D. 

Hon. William Montgomery entered Washington 
College at an early age, and was graduated in 
September, 1839, under the presidency of Dr. Mc- 
Conaughy. He at once commenced the study of 
law under the late John L. Gow, as preceptor, and 
was admitted to practice at November term, 1841, 
his examiners and certifiers being the Hon. T. M. 
T. McKennan, Hon. Isaac Leet and James Wat 
sou, Esq. His rise at the bar was rapid and brill- 
iant, and in a few years he took a high position 
among its leading members, enjoying to the last 
an enviable reputation, as well as an extensive and 
lucrative practice. In 1845 he was appointed dis- 
trict attorney by Gov. Shunk. In 1S48 he re- 
ceived the Democratic nomination for State sena 
lor. but was defeated by a small majority. In 
1854 he received the nomination of the same party 
for Congress, and during that year made some of 
the most powerful speeches of his life. In 1851} 
lie was elected to Congress, and in 1858 was re 
elected by a very large majority. His career in 
Congress was marked by several speeohes of great 
ability, which placed him at once among the rec- 
ognized leaders of the then dominant party. 

Mr. Montgomery was known as the author of 
the "Crittenden-Montgomery Resolution" on the 
admission of Kansas to the Union. As a public 
speaker he possessed a power that would attract 
and hold the attention and raise the highest en- 
thusiasm among his listeners. As a lawyer he 
had few peers, and his name is handed down to 
history as one of the most talented of the day. 

In 1845 Mr. Montgomery married Matilda 
Duvall, of Washington county, Penu., and they 
had three children: Andrew Jackson, James and 
William. Of these Andrew Jackson married 
Martha G. Black, of Washington, Fenn., and they 
now reside in Canton township, same county; they 
have two children, Elizabeth and George. James 
married Lillias Ritner, of Washington, Penn., and 
they now reside in Salem, Roanoke Co., Va. ; they 
have one son, William Morgan. William, the 
youngest son of our subject, died in 1880. 



QEORGE WASHINGTON MINTON, a prom- 
inent and well-to-do lifelong farmer and 
stock raiser, of Morris township, is a native 
of the same, having been born January 4, 
-• 1817. 
His father. Fhilip Mintou, who was a native of 
New Jersey, born October (5, 1782, came about 
the commencement of this century to Washington 
county, settling in Morris township, where he 



passed the remainder of his life, Indians and wild 
animals being at that time still numerous and 
troublesome. On January 21, 1803, he was mar- 
ried to Eunice Clutter, of Morrison township, by 
which union there were nine children, viz. : Rachel, 
Thaddeus, John, Sarah, Sophronia, Ruth, George 
Washington, Sarah Ann and Harriet, all of whom 
are now deceased except Sophronia and George 
Washington. 

The subject of this memoir was married Decem- 
ber 20, IS;jN, to Jane, daughter of Stephen Day, 
of Morris township, Greene Co. , Fenn., and the 
names and dates of birth of the children born 
to them areas follows: Sarah Fhilena, September 
22, 1839; Bradley, July 'J."., 1842; t 'oil, us, October 
3(1, 1845; Man Edith, April 25, 1848; John, No 
vember 13, 1850; Stephen Mintou, June 9, 1853; 
George Lowrie, May 22, 1856; Fhilip Leondiis, 
May 29, 1858; Oliver Homer, April 29, 1859. Of 
these, Sarah I'hilona lives at home, unmarried; 
Bradley married Mattie Gere, of Lawrence county, 
Penn., who died April 25, L889, and he then 
wedded Mary Anderson, of West Alexander (he is a 
druggist at Olaysville) ; Collins married Miss Min- 
erva Patterson, of Franklin township, this county, 
and after her death was united in marriage with 
Miss Mattie Grayble, of Akron, Ohio (he is a 
painter by trade); Mary Edith makes her home 
with her father, and is unmarried; John is a 
farmer in East Fiuley township, and is married to 
Sarah Rickey, of Riehhill township, Greene Co , 
Fenn. ; Stephen is a farmer, and is married to Cora, 
daughter of Artemas Day, of Morris township; 
George Lowrie married Callie V. Webb, and after 
her death wedded Luella Doty (he lives in Nine- 
veh, Greene Co., Fenn., where he carries on a dry- 
goods store); Fhilip L. is married to Emma San- 
ders, and lives in Washington, this county; Oliver 
Homer lived only one year, dying April 29, 1860. 
The mother of this family departed this life De 
cernber 20, 1888. Mr. Mintou, in addition to car- 
rying on general agriculture, has been consider- 
ably interested in stock raising, and at the present 
time has some ten horses on his place. He has 
been eminently successful, and is recognized as one 
of the best authorities on matters pertaining to 
agricultural pursuits. Politically he is a pro- 
nounced Democrat, one "dyed in the wool," and 
has served three years as school director. 




ALTER L WHITING. Among the well- 
f) known, progressive young business men 
of Washington, the subject of this sketch 
— ' occupies a leading position. John Whit- 
ing, his father, was born in 1820, at Ports 
mouth, England, where he was educated and 
reared to mercantile business. 

John, while yet a young man, came to America, 



150 



WA SUING TON COVN TY. 



and made a settlement in Washington county, at 
Washington, in 1842. In 1844 he married Marga- 
ret, daughter of Reuben and Elizabeth Turner, 
and the children born to this union were: Edwin 
(deceased), Sarah M.. Mary E., William B., 
George E., John, Carroll C, Harry D. , and 
Walter L. The family are members of the Prot- 
estant Episcopal Church. In politics Mr. Whit- 
ing is a Republican. For several years he has 
been engaged in mercantile business in Washing 
ton. 

Walter L. Whiting, the subject proper of this 
sketch, was born at Washington, this county, Jan- 
uary 13, 1862, and received a liberal education at 
the public schools. When a youth he entered the 
employ of William Smith & Son, the well-known 
merchants of Washington, remaining with them 
eleven years, during which time he acquired a 
thorough business training. In August, 188"), he 
received the appointment of assistant bookkeeper 
for the Citizens National Bank of Washington, and 
in I SOU was cho-ien cashier of the Farmers & 
Mechanics' National Bank, of the same place, 
which position he tills with eminent ability and 
complete satisfaction. On May 17, 1888, Mr. 
Whiting was married to Frances, eldest daughter 
of the late Edward Little, of Washington. Two 
children, Haven L. and Helen L., have come to 
bless their home. Our subject and wife are mem 
bers of the Protestant Episcopal Church. In 
politics Mr. Whiting is a Republican. 

Edward Little, born in 1837, at Silloth, Eng- 
land, married Eleanor, daughter of John and 
Mary Wales, of Carlisle, England, in 1801. The 
children born to them are Frances, Grace, Eleanor, 
Jane, Mary, Edward and Bessie. Mr. Little, wife 
and two children came to America and settled at 
Washington, Penn., in 1869. He was a contractor 
and builder of prominence here. Frances (Little) 
Whiting was born at Workington, England, 
August 30, 1864. Edward Little, her father, died 
July 27, 1885, and Eleanor Little, her mother. 
died March 7, 181)1. 



AMUEL MAXWELL was born near Car- 
lisle, Penn., October 23, 1776, and died Oc- 
tober '.I, 1865. About the year 1800 he pur 
chased a farm in the vicinity of New Cum- 
berland, W. Va. (then Brooke county, Va., now 
Hancock county, W. Va.), which was his home un- 
til his death. 

Mr. Maxwell was very highly esteemed as a 
neighbor ami a citizen. He was for over fifty 
years a ruliug elder in the Presbyterian Church, 
having been ordained to that office by Rev. Elisha 
McCurdy, in the church known as the "Three 
Springs," in the burial ground of which his body 
awaits the resurrection of the just. He was twice 



married: first to Miss Sarah Scott, by whom he 
had five sons — Scott, Smiley, John, Robert, Will 
iam (who died in infancy) — and one daughter 
— Elizabeth, who became the wife of a Mr. Welsh, 
whose son, Rev. Josiah Welsh, was the founder 
and, until his death in 1877, the pastor of the First 
Presbyterian Church of Salt Lake City, Utah. 

Mrs. Jane Fulton, a sister of the Rev. John Me 
Cluskoy, D. D., and widow of John Fulton, of 
Florence, Penn., was Mr. Maxwell's second wife. 
They were married August 18, 1831. Mrs. Max 
well, by her first husband, was the mother of Rev. 
Robert John Fulton (a sketch of whom follows), a 
brilliant young clergyman, who died at Cumber 
land, Guernsey Co., Ohio, in 1855. The children 
of Samuel and Jane (McCluskey) Maxwell were 
William (born August 9, 1832, and died at Will 
iamsburgh, Va. , May 13, 1863), James McCluskey 
(a sketch of whom follows), and Joseph Henry, 
who is an extensive wheat grower near Dawson, 
Minnesota. 

Joseph Henry Maxwell was born March 10, 
1840. In the early history of the war of the Re- 
bellion he enlisted in the First West Virginia Reg- 
iment (loyal), Col. Thoburn, commander, and con- 
tinued in the ranks until the close of the war, re- 
fusing promotion and passing courageously through 
more than thirty pitched battles, fortunately re- 
ceiving no serious personal injury, and only on one 
occasion a slight wound. 

Robert J. Fulton was born in the northern part 
of Washington county, Penn., a son of John Fulton, 
adescendantof Robert Fulton, of steamboat renown. 
His mother was Jane McCluskey, a sister of the late 
Catherine (McCluskey) Herriott, who was the 
mother of William and John Herriott, well-known 
farmers of Mt. Pleasant township, of Miss Nancy 
Jane Herriott, of Canonsburg, and Mrs. Kate (Her 
riott) Ewing, wife of Rev. William Ewing, of the 
same place. Her son, James H. , died some years 
ago at Lawrence, Kans. Mr. Fulton was one of 
the brightest men that ever enlivened a dinner 
party or social. He was considerably over six 
feet tall, of very slender but compact build. His 
manner was keen and surprisingly alert. Had he 
been a heavier boned man he might easily have 
been mistaken for a twin brother of Abraham Lin 
coin. He had dark complexion, small, black, 
sparkling eyes and a dense shock of very black hair. 
He was a man of exceedingly fine taste, and very 
few in the Presbyterian Church to day equal his 
scholastic attainments and oratorical powers. 
After teaching school in country districts for some 
years while a boy, he attended the celebrated acad- 
emy at West Alexander, presided over for many 
yenrs by his mother's brother, the far-famed Dr. 
John McCluskey, Then after teaching in this 
school and reading a complete course in the classics, 
mathematics and theology under the tuition of 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



ir, i 



Dr. McCluskey, he was, after a most rigid exami- 
nation, licensed to preach by the Presbytery of 
Ohio, whose members declared that he had stood 
a better examination than any candidate that had 
ever come before them. Mr. Fulton had no brother, 
but two sisters, one of whom, long since dead, was 
tliewifeof Samuel Phillips, of Chartiers township. 
She had three children: Fulton, Hibbert and 
Sophie C. J., the first being the editor and pro- 
prietor of the McDonald Outlook, the second a 
\^ry popular and successful physician at Pitta 
burgh, and the third a well-known resident of 
Canonslnirg. The second sister of Robert Fulton 
was Mary, wife of Rev. T. B. Van Eman, of Can 
onsburg, who died many years ago, leaving one 
son, John William, who is a Presbyterian minister 
and missionary at Geneseo, Kan's. After having 
been licensed, Mr. Fulton was called to the Pres 
byterian Church at Cumberland, Ohio. A few 
years after he went to assist at a wonderful re- 
vival of religion in a neighboring church where he 
preached each day and each night for two weeks; 
then coming home preached on Sabbath to his own 
people an exceedingly impressive sermon from 
Micah vi: 9, and took pneumonia and lever that 
carried him off in a few days. Thus passed away 
one of the brightest spirits this county ever pro- 
duced. Robert Fulton married Ruth Anna Lucas, 
who resides in West Alexander, Penn. They had 
one daughter, Kate, who married a Mr. Sprnul, an 
attorney, who has for some years been engaged in 
one of the departments at Washington, D. C. 

Rev. John McCluskey, D. D. , was for over a 
quarter of a century the active and successful 
pastor of the church of West Alexander, Penn. 
At the age of thirty-three years he came to it, a 
licentiate from the Presbytery of Philadelphia, 
and was ordained by Washington Presbytery as 
pastor, October 8, 1828. Chester county, Penn., 
claims the honor of his birth, which occurred June 
17, 1795, though the discipline of his youth came 
from Washington county, the future sphere of his 
labors. Jefferson College sent him forth in the 
class of 1822, adorned with her culture, and better 
still as a new man in the purpose of his life; for 
while an under graduate he made his confossion 
of Christ in the Chartiers Church, then under the 
pastoral care of Dr. John McMillan. Not a little 
of his mental development, before and after his 
collegiate training, came through his own efforts 
as a teacher, and the habit thus acquired increased 
and widened his influence throughout his pastoral 
work. He received his theological training partly 
under the instruction of Dr. Ezra Stiles Ely, of 
Philadelphia, and, for one year, in the Princeton 
Seminary. Dr. McCluskey was more a man of 
action than of severe study. His preaching was 
plain, Scriptural, sound and spiritual, abounding in 
illustrations from daily life. It was attended with 



steady ingathering to the communion of the church, 
and often with special revivals. He was pre emi 
nently a man of affairs, even at times taking the 
temporal as well as spiritual interests of his people 
into his care. Thus, under his influence, the gen- 
eral advancement of society kept pace with the 
progress of his church He was a special friend 
of liberal education. He established the West- 
Alexander Academy, and conducted it with much 
success and reputation during the pastorate, send 
ing forth from its walls about fifty students who 
became ministers, besides many candidates for the 
other professions. He was also an active trustee 
of Washington College. Dr. McCluskey 's resigna 
t ion, April 15, 1854, in the fifty-ninth year of his 
age, was not for the purpose of inglorious ease, 
but rather for a change of work. After a year 
spent in the service of the board of education, he 
supplied the pulpit of the church of Neshaminy, 
Penn., and afterward that of Smyrna, Delaware, 
through a period of five years. In 1859 he found 
ed a church school in West Philadelphia. In 1804 
he established an institution at Highlstown, N. J., 
lor the free tuition of the children of ministers, 
and especially of missionaries. Returning to Phil- 
adelphia in INTO, he acted for a time as associate 
principal of the Mantua Academy. The evening 
of his declining life was spent among friends at 
Wooster, Ohio. On March 31, 1880, in the eighty - 
fifth year of his age, his life work came to its end 
in Philadelphia, and lie ascended to the upper 
skies. [From the "History of the Presbytery of 
Washington." | 

His body was laid to rest in the old Neshaminy 
Cemetery at Hartsville, Penn., where, since, at his 
side was placed the body of his most estimable 
and greatly beloved wife. 

Rev. James McCluskey Maxwell, D. D.,was born 
in the vicinity of New Cumberland, Brooke Co., 
Va. (now Hancock county, W. Va.), August 1, 
1837. He was baptized in infancy by Rev. John 
W. Scott, president of Washington College, at the 
old Three Springs church, where his father, Sam- 
uel Maxwell, had been many years before ordained 
a ruling elder by Rev. Elisha McCurdy. His 
mother was Jane McCluskey Maxwell, a native of 
Robinson township, Washington Co., Penn., and a 
sister of Rev. John McCluskey, D. D., well known 
in western Pennsylvania as a leading preacher and 
educator in his day. At Cumberland, Ohio, and 
at Miller Academy, Washington, Ohio, Mr. Max 
well was prepared for Washington College, where 
he graduated in 1800. The two years following 
lie spent in the Western Theological Seminary, at 
Allegheny, Penn., going in the autumn of 1SC>'2 to 
Chicago, where, in the spring of 1803, he graduated 
from the McCormick Theological Seminary. Mr. 
Maxwell's student life was marked by faithfulness 
as well as brilliancy, and gave full promise of his 



152 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



subsequent successful anil eminently useful career. 
He was licensed to preach the Gospel by the Pres- 
bytery of Zauesville at its session hold at McCon- 
nellsville, Ohio, in April, 1862, and was invited, 
immediately after completing his theological course, 
tn take charge of the Presbyterian Church at Fort 
Madison, Iowa, also to the pastorate of the Presby- 
terian Church at Kirkwood, in the vicinty of St. 
Louis, Mo. The latter he accepted, and was in 
September, 1863, ordained a Gospel minister by 
the Presbytery of St. Louis, and installed pastor 
of the Kirkwood Church, which position he held 
until June, 1805, when he accepted a call to the 
pastorate of the Twelfth Presbyterian Church of 
Baltimore, Md. The two years which Mr. Max- 
well passed at Kirkwood were the closiug years of 
the war of the Rebellion, and in addition to his 
pastoral duties he gave attention to the physical 
and spiritual wants of the soldiers in the barracks, 
hospitals and prisons of St. Louis. He entered 
upon his labors as pastor of the Baltimore Church 
in August, 1865, and continued in that pastorate 
for nine years, when, on account of impaired 
health, he was advised by his physician to give up 
Ins work entirely for a year .or two, or seek a field 
in which his duties would lie much lighter; and in 
accordance with his advice he removed, in the fall 
of 1874, to the beautiful town of Belvidere, N. J., 
where he accepted a call to the Second Presbvte 
rian Church, in the pastorate of which he contin- 
ued for six years. On October 26, 1865, Mr. Max- 
well was married in Hightstown, N. J., to Miss 
Gertrude A. Appleget, of that town, Rev. S. S. 
Shriver and Rev. .lohn McCluskey, U. D. , offici- 
ating. Mrs. Maxwell is a woman of rare natural 
endowments and broad culture, and she has ever, 
by her sweet, Christian spirit, and her efficiency 
and exceptional qualifications as a social leader 
and Christian worker, won a warm place in the 
esteem and atl'ection of all with whom her position 
has brought her into contact. The kindly, gener- 
ous and hospitable disposition of the husband has 
always met with the hearty sympathy and co-ope- 
ration of the wife, so that the parsonage has ever 
and everywhere been noted for its delightful hos- 
pitality. Mr. Maxwell and his wife have been 
twice abroad: first for four months in 1877, visit- 
ing Great Britain, Holland, Germany, Belgium, 
Switzerland and France. The second visit abroad 
was made in 1880 81, including almost a year, 
and embraced Algeria, Spain, Italy, and. on the 
put of Mr. Maxwell, Egypt, Palestine, Greece. 
Constantinople, and. westward by way of the Black 
Sea, the Danube, Hungary, Austria, Venice, and 
over the Simplon Pass. During this tour Mr. 
Maxwell was correspondent of such well-known 
newspapers as the New York Independent and 
Tribune, the Interior of Chicago, and has since 
been a valued contributor to the Christian at Work 



and the Christian Union. In 18S2 Mr. Maxwell 
became editor of the Presbyterian Observer at Bal- 
timore, which position he held until the winter of 
1885-86, much of the time supplying the Presby- 
terian Church of Harmony, Harford Co., Md., and 
was earnestly solicited to become pastor there, 
but, though the mutual attachment was very great 
between the people of that church and himself, he 
did not see his way clear to assume its pastorate. 
In the meantime he was called to the pastoral 
charge of the Presbyterian Church at Sweet Air, 
Baltimore Co., Md. , and to that of Beaver, Penu., 
and also to the church of Monongahela City, Penn. . 
which latter he accepted, and of which he is still 
the popular and beloved pastor. Dr. Maxwell is 
a preacher of rare power — fresh, vigorous and 
suggestive — a pastor of exceptional tenderness and 
devotion — an organizer of peculiar tact — a friend 
whom one values and a companion of whom one 
never tires. [By Rev. John R. Sutherland, D. D. , 
of Pittsburgh. 



HOMAS H. BAIRD. A conspicuous figure 
on the streets of Monongahela City, elastic 
in step, erect in carriage, of tine physical 
proportions, still in the prime of life, and, 
withal, remarkably well preserved, is the 
subject of this biographical notice. 

Thomas Harlan Baird, his father, was born No- 
vember 15, 1787, in Washington, Penn. He was 
the third son of Dr. Absalom and Susanna (Brown) 
Baird, the latter a daughter of John Brown, archi- 
tect. When quite young he was sent to a Latin 
school, taught by one of the pioneer classical 
teachers of that day in Brooke county, \V. Va. 
He was called home by the sudden death of his 
father, and his education from that time had to be 
completed by his own earnest efforts and scholarly 
tastes. He studied law with Joseph Pentecost, 
one of the most prominent lawyers of that period, 
and was admitted to the Washington county bar 
in July, 1808, before he had reached the age of 
twenty-one. In 1818 he was selected as president 
judge of Washington, Fayette, Greene and Somer 
set counties, and continued to hold the position 
until 1838. This commission bestowed upon so 
young a man, when the Washington county bar 
was quite noted for its able lawyers, was an ac- 
knowledgment of his legal ability. During the 
ten years in which he practiced law he was in- 
tensely occupied in promoting by every means in 
his power, the growth and progress of his native 
town. Like his father, Dr. A. Baird, he was al 
ways among the first to assist, by his hardly 
earned money and indomitable energy, any enter 
prise for that purpose. In very many cases the 
credit due his indefatigable labors was given to 
others, who did not hesitate to assume an honor 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



153 



they had not earned, and were rewarded by polit- 
ic;! I positions he could not contend for. He was, 
in 1814, one of the directors and stockholders in 
the Washington Steam mill & Manufacturing 
Company, in which he lost money and gained noth- 
ing. He was also one of the contractors on the 
National Road, with Parker Campbell and Thomas 
McGiflin; his energy was unbounded in this work 
as in everything he undertook. The first survey 
made for the Chartiers Valley Railroad, one of the 
first railroads prospected, was made wholly at his 
expense; which fact was not learned until after his 
death, the information being given by the engineer 
who surveyed it for him. He was one of the com- 
missioners appointed to raise stock for the Wash- 
ington & Williamsport Turnpike Road, and for 
the Washington & Pittsburgh Turnpike Road. 
In 1843 Judge Baird, and Judge William Wilkins, 
of Pittsburgh, purchased the stock raised by the 
State for the Washington & Pittsburgh Turn- 
pike. No dividends were ever paid the purchas 
ers on this stock though it was kept as a toll-road 
for many years. The Monongahela Navigation 
Company, having failed in its many attempts to 
improve the navigation of the Monongahela river, 
at last succeeded in forming a practical slack 
water navigation company, and among the many 
commissioners appointed to receive subscriptions 
to the stock, Judge Baird was numbered. Copies 
of speeches made by him all over the counties of 
Washington, Allegheny and Fayette, the numerous 
articles written for the newspapers, all show how 
much in earnest he was in his efforts to excite the 
interest of the people in this great work. He was 
also elected, in 1813, president of the board of di- 
rectors of the Bank of Washington, an " Original 
Bank," as it was called. In November, 1818, 
Judge Baird conveyed the property of the bank to 
David Acheson, Alexander Murdoch and John Mar- 
shall, trustees. His judicial career has been the 
subject of very severe criticism and comment 
by his political enemies, and he was accused 
by them of judicial tyranny while he was on the 
bench. His great fault was that he had a very 
high ideal of the dignity of his office, and he re- 
sented an insult offered to himself when on the 
bench, as contempt for the majesty of the law, of 
which he was the official representative. He was a 
man who could not be bribed by flattery, or political 
offices of preferment. While on the bench his life 
was several times put in jeopardy, by men who 
resented his legal decisions when not given in their 
favor. An attempt was made by his enemies to 
have him impeached before the Legislature of Penn- 
sylvania, for disbarring lawyers guilty of contempt 
of court, but they did not succeed, in spite of all 
their malignant and false accusations. Those who 
wish to ascertain the facts in regard to this case 
can consult the Legislative records of that day. In 



1854 an article appeared in a Philadelphia news 
paper, written in defeuse of Judge Baird at the 
time of his nomination as the American candidate 
for the supreme judgeship. It says, in regard to his 
impeachment: " It is well known there was nothing 
shown in the investigation that could affect the 
standing of Mr. Baird, either as a judge or a gen 
tleman." Among the many charges brought 
against him, by his political enemies, when his 
name was mentioned for United States senator was 
that lie was Pro-slavery. This falsehood is denied 
by the same writer, whom we again quote: " Judge 
Baird in all" the relations of life lias been a law 
abiding, consistent and benevolent friend of the 
colored race, not an Abolitiouist, or Pro-slavery, but 
an American. By one single decision of his, given 
when on the bench of Washington and Fayette, 
he discharged from slavery perhaps twenty thou- 
sand Blaves. | See the case of Miller vs. Dwelling, 
1 I s. & K p. 142. r 

Judge Baird was of scholarly taste, and not only 
well versed in all knowledge pertaining to his pro 
fession, but was also a fine classical scholar. His 
Greek Testament lay upon his study table, and not 
unopened or unread — busy though he might be — 
and his Horace, Cicero and Virgil were so familiar 
to him that in conversation he had always an apt 
quotation ready to suit the subject under discus 
sion. He had also studied Hebrew, and in the last 
few years of his life devoted much time in trans 
lating the Psalms of David, not for any purpose 
but his own pleasure. Judge Baird was not am- 
bitious to acquire wealth or political power. His 
home was to him the dearest place on earth, and 
nothing could induce him to seek for pleasure or 
enjoyment out of its sacred precincts. After his 
retirement from the bench, upon which he was, 
much against his will or inclination, persuaded by 
influential friends to remain several years longer 
than he otherwise would, he practiced law at the 
Pittsburgh bar, where he was engaged only in im 
portant cases. In 1848 he retired to his much 
loved home, at Harlem, his country seat on the 
Monongahela river, where he had for many years 
spent his summers with his family and friends. In 
early life he was married to Nancy McCullough, 
by whom he had children as follows: Ellen B. , in- 
termarried with Dr. R. R. Reed, both of whom are 
deoeased, leaving a number of children and de- 
scendants, residing in Washington, Pittsburgh and 
Philadelphia, Penn. ; Sarah A., who married George 
Morgan, but is now a widow residing in Washing- 
ton, Penn.; Harriet N. Baird, who died recently at 
Washington; Mary, intermarried with Joseph N. 
Patterson, both now deceased, leaving a son,T. H. B. 
Patterson, a lawyer in Pittsburgh, and Nancy, wife 
of Rev. William B. McKibben, residing in Cincin 
nati, Ohio; Eliza, who was married to Robert Pat 
tersou, Esq. , now a widow residing at Sewickley, 



154 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Penn., having two daughters, .lane and Bessie, liv- 
ing with her, and one sou. Thomas Patterson, Esq., 
who is practicing law in Pittsburgh, Penn. ; Thomas 
H. Baird, subject proper of sketch; Margaret W. 
Baird, residing at Washington, Penn. ; Jane R., who 
was married to Charles McKnight, now a widow, 
residing at Sewickley, Penn., has three sons, T. H. 
B. McKnight, Charles McKnight and Frank Mc- 
Knight, and two daughters, Mary B. and Eliza; 
Susan C. and Emily (1. Baird, who died in young 
womanhood many years ago. 

Thomas H. Baird. whose name opens this 
sketch, was born in Washington, Washington Co., 
Penn., December 17, 1824. He received his edu- 
cation at the common schools of the borough, and 
at Washington College, from which he graduated 
at the early age of seventeen yearn; and, having 
decided on following the legal profession, com- 
menced the study of law in his father's office in 
Washington. In February, 184<>, he was admitted 
to the bar of Washington county, and at once com- 
menced practice in partnership with his father, 
continuing (with the exception of a period here- 
after referred to) until 1872. when he was elected 
district attorney, on the Democratic ticket in a 
Republican county, his opponent being John 
Aiken. During his term of service he was in- 
strumental in securing the conviction of Briceland, 
for the murder, by shooting, of John Allenham. 
Briceland was found guilty after a lengthened 
trial, convicted, and sentenced to imprisonment 
for life. In 1850, when T. McK. T. McKennan 
was appointed, by President Fillmore, Secretary of 
the Interior. Mr. Baird was given the part of as 
sistant chief clerk of the Census Bureau, and was 
later honored by an appointment as clerk in the 
Department proper. Part of his duties were to 
prepare and tile all papers relating to appoint- 
ments and removals of officers, and among them 
he found some demanding his own removal on 
political grounds. These he filed in the regular 
wav, the Department yielded to the demand, and 
decided on his removal, and he wrote out his own 
dismissal and came home. One month afterward, 
however, he was recalled and promoted. Mr. 
Baird was ten years, in all, occupied in Govern 
ment position at Washington, D. C, and then re- 
turned to Pennsylvania. For some three years 
we next find him practicing his profession in Pitts- 
burgh, after which he was engaged a time in the 
coal business on the Monongahela river. In 18R9 
he opened a law office in Monongahela City, where 
he has since resided. 

In 1849, while an attorney in Washington, this 
county, Thomas H. Baird was united in marriage 
with Maria L. , daughter of Dr. Samuel M. King, 
who. in 1820, came from Fayette county, Penn., to 
Monongahela City, where he practiced his pro 
fession till his death in 18S2. Two of his chil- 



dren are yet living in Washington county: Mrs. 
Baird and R. C. King, and two, Mrs. C. J. Mosely 
and Dr. C. B. King, are residents of Allegheny. 
Mr. and Mrs. Baird are the parents of two chil 
dren, viz.: Frank E., an attorney at Charleroi, 
this county, and Maria Louise, wife of A. G. 
Mitchell, assistant engineer of the Monongahela 
division of the Pennsylvania Railroad, with resi 
dence in Monongahela City. The latter are par- 
ents of one little daughter, Maria Louise Mitchell. 
Socially, Mr. Baird is a member of the Royal Ar 
cannm, and in church connection is a Presbyterian. 
In 1881) he was nominated by his party for Con- 
gress, but tin' county proved too strongly Repub- 
lican for him on that ticket, and he was defeated 
Mr. Bainl is a great reader, and in his profession 
keeps himself up to the times, having one of the 
finest and most complete law libraries in the 
couutv. 



li A. PATTERSON, M. D. , was born in East 
Finley tuwnship, Washington Co., Penn., 
\\\ April 7, 1S44. His paternal grandfather, a 
native of Ireland, when a young man emi 
grated to America, where he married. In the war 
of 1812 he enlisted in the American army, and was 
never more heard of, and his wife in the meantime 
died, having given birth to a son, who was named 
Harrison. 

Harrison Patterson, father of the Doctor, was 
born in East Finley township, and was reared to 
the trade of stone mason, which he followed twenty 
years, but later took up farm life in his native 
township, where he is yet living at the age of eighty- 
oue years. He married Grizzella, daughter of 
Daniel and Catherine Ross, natives of Scotland, 
who emigrated to the United States and became 
residents of Donegal township, Washington Co., 
Penn. After marriage Mr. and Mrs. Patterson 
settled on a farm where she died on Christmas day, 
1884, at the age uf sixty-six years. The children 
born to them were as follows: William R., a 
butcher in Claysville; John A., subject; Mary A.; 
J. A. R., who tlied iii infancy; Francis P., re- 
siding in Fast Finley township; one deceased in 
infancy; Henrietta, residing in East Finley town- 
ship; Catherine (i., a teacher in a mission scl 1 

in Indian Territory; Josephine, who died at the age 
of two years; David W. and Harrison Newton, 
farmers in East Finley township. The father is 
still on the old place, where he has lived for the 
past lift v six vears. For fifteen years he was a 
captain in the old militia, and is commonly called 
by the title uf " Captain." 

John A. Patterson received his education in the 
common schools and in the Millsburg Normal 
School. For six years he was a professional school 
teacher, in the meantime preparing himself for 



WASHINGTON C01L\ I) 



155 



the medical profession. He read medicine with 
Dr. J. \V. Kelley, of Claysville, aud attended Jef- 
ferson Medical College during the winter of L869 
70; then practiced the profession four years at 
Zollarsville, after which he attended Ohio Medical 
College, graduating therefrom in the class of 1875; 
he is also a graduate in denial surgery. Return- 
ing to Zollarsville, he remained there until INST, 
when he moved to Washington, where he has since 
enjoyed a highly satisfactory general practice in 
medicine. On October 18, 1875, Dr. Patterson was 
united in marriage with Miss Belle, daughter of 
Isaac Leonard, of West Bethlehem township, and 
they have one sou, Guy E., born July 19, 1876. 
Politically the Doctor is a Democrat, aud for twelve 
years he was school director in West Bethlehem 
township. He is a member of the Improved Order 
of Heptasophs and of the Equitable Aid Union. 
He is now a member of the borough council. 



* 



\yjll R ALLEM, clerk of the courts of Wash 

\f/\ iugton county, is a grandson of Rev. Moses 
!i I Allen, a prominent early settler of the 
county, who was born September 5, 1 780, in 
Westmoreland county, Penn., and in his 
youth learned the trade of millwright, which he pur 
sued diligently and successfully for some years. His 
classical education he secured at Jefferson College, 
and he studied theology with Dr. John McMillan. 
On June '23, 1807. he was licensed to preach by 
the Presbytery of Ohio, and in November of same 
year was ordained and installed pastor of the 
united churches of Providence and Jefferson, in 
Greene county, Penn. In 1816 he received a call 
from the congregation of Raccoon. Washington 
Co., Penn., and was installed June. 1817, ami con- 
tinued to exercise the pastoral office for twenty- 
two years. 

The Rev. S. C. Jennings, who had been asso 
ciated with the Rev. Moses Allen for many years, 
in an address delivered at the "Centennial Meet- 
ing" of the Raccoon Church, spoke of the Rev. 
Moses Allen, second pastor of the church, as fol- 
lows: "Tall in person, grave and sedate in man- 
ners. A preacher of ability, a great reasoner, 
logical and instructive, irreproachable in character, 
and diligent in catechising the youth. His pastor- 
ate extended over a period of twenty two years. 
During this pastorate a new house of worship was 
built, which was of brick and capable of seating 
600 persons. This building continued in use 
forty-two years." 

In 1838 he left Raccoon, and was afterward 
pastor for nine years at Crab Apple Church in 
Ohio, and he died there January 16, 1847, aged 
sixty-six years. It appears from memoranda in 
his own handwriting that his labors were abundant. 
"I was pastor of Raccoons," be writes, "twenty- 



two years, during which I preached 2,685 tunes; 
administered the Lord's Sapper seventy live times: 
admitted to the communion of the church 324 per 
sons; baptized fifteen adults and 558 children, 
ami solemnized 190 marriages." He was a man 
of decided and positive character, of strong mental 
ability. He was a sound theologian, and is always 
spoken of as a very logical, instructive and forcible 
preacher. Mr. Allen was married, in 1805, to 
Catherine, the youngest daughter of Rev. John 
McMillan, D. D., who was the pioneer Presbyterian 
minister, and founder of the ''Log Cabin School," 
which ultimately became Jefferson College, of 
Canonsburg, Penn. His watch, an old English 
" Bulls eye," which he carried until the case wore 
off, is in possession of subject. Ten children were 
born to this union as follows: (1) John Watson, 
born December 16, 1806, married September 29, 
1835, Jane Patterson, and both are now deceased 
(their only son. It. P. Allen, was a justice of the 
peace in Sharon, Iowa; he married Annie Cleaver 
in 1863); (2) Eliza Williams, born August 21, 
1808, was married March 11. 1836, to John Sym 
ington, and is now deceased (their only son, Allen 
Harper Symington, married Miss Ellen Mcllvaine 
in 1869; they reside iu Cherry Valley. Mt. Pleas- 
ant township, Washington county, and have three 
daughters and one son); (3) John McMillan, of 
whom special mention is made further on; (4) 
Jane M., born October 2, 1812, died September 8, 
1819; (5) Samuel Harpaer, born February 6, 1815, 
was married April 26, 1838, to Mary Wallace (he 
attended Jefferson College, Canonsburg, and Jef- 
ferson Medical College, Philadelphia; he practiced 
medicine over half a century, and is now living at 
Bakerstown, Allegheny Co., Penn.; he has two 
daughters: Lydia A. (Mrs. Gibson), in the city of 
Allegheny, where for several years he was a lead- 
ing teacher in the public schools, and Kate, at 
home; an only living son, L. M., is a member of 
the Pittsburgh bar, with residence in Allegheny; 
an elder son, John Watson, died in the service of 
his country in the war of the Rebellion); (6) 
Catherine Blair, born April 2, 1817, married 
Thomas Morgan, April 19, 1836, and both died in 
Belmont county, Ohio, where several of their chil- 
dren now are, others being in the West; (7) Moses 
Coe, born December 20, 1820, married Ann Camp- 
bell November 2, 1843; they are both of Belmont 
county, Ohio, and now reside in Island Creek 
township, Jefferson Co., Ohio (they had six sous, 
three of whom died in early youth; the eldest one 
living married a Miss Crawford, in Jefferson county, 
Ohio, and they are now in Missouri; the other two 
surviving sons, William Vincent and Samuel 
Harper, are living with their parents'); (8) Aaron, 
born February 9. 1823, in Washington county, 
married Ann Lyle in Belmont county, Ohio, and 
both died about the year 1877 (one son, John, 



156 



WASHINGTOb COUNTY 



married a Miss Pollock, anotber sou, Moses Kay. 
married a Miss Armstrong, one rlaugbter, Catha- 
rine, married a Mr. Duulap, anotber, Belle, was 
wedded to a Mr. Pollock, and they all live in Bel- 
mont county, Ohio; anotber son, David Dinsmore, 
is a minister of the Presbyterian Church in Idaho, 
and Oscar, yet another son, died at the age of 
twenty years); (9) William McMillan, born April 
11, 1825, died May 23, 1823, and (10) Sarah J., 
born March 5. 1829, died June 23, 1833. 

John McMillan Allen was born .July 11, 1810, 
in Greene county, Penn., and reared to agricult 
ural pursuits, which be followed through life. In 
March, 1S37, be married Margaret Ann Riddell, 
daughter of Rev. John Riddell, D. D. , first pastor 
of Robinson Run Church, by the edge of Wash- 
ington and Allegheny counties. To this union 
was born one child — Moses Riddell Allen — the 
subject of this sketch. This wife dying February 
28, 1856, Mr. Allen married, for bis second wife, 
Mrs. Margaret Ann Lockart, mother of ex-Sheriff 
Lockart, and one child came of this marriage, 
Annie Eliza, now the wife of J. A. Evans, an at- 
torney in Pittsburgh, Penn. The father died in 
Burgettstown, July 15, 1860, and is buried in Rac- 
coon cemetery; the mother died near Noblestown, 
Allegheny Co., Penn. 

M. R. Allen was born July 19, 1842, in Har- 
rison county, Ohio, and in 1859 removed with bis 
father to Burgettstown, Washington county, and 
has since been a resident of the county. His edu- 
cation was received at the common schools and at 
Franklin College, New Athens, Ohio, after which 
he taught school in Washington county, Penn. 
For a time he carried on farming operations, also 
a mercantile business, and on August 2, 1881, be 
founded the Burgettstown Call, which he pub 
lisbed till January 1, 1887, when, having been 
elected to the office of clerk of courts of Wash- 
ington county, be sold the paper to the owner of 
the Enterprise (J. H. Cramer), since when the two 
have been consolidated with the title Enterprise 
Cull. Mr. Allen then removed to Washington, 
where he has since had his home, having been re- 
elected in 1890 to the office be holds. 

On January 14, 1864, Mr. Allen was married to 
Ella M. Daugherty, of Burgettstown, daughter of 
John Daugherty (of the same place) and Abigail 
B. (Canon) Daugherty, daughter of Joshua Canon, 
and granddaughter of Col. John Canon, the found 
er of Canonsburg. Mr. and Mrs. Daugherty were 
the parents of five children: John Weslev, who 
died in 1878; Ella M. (Mrs. M. R. Allen); Jennie 
O, wife of W. B. Porter, of Burgettstown; Flora 
B. , teacher in the East Washington public schools, 
and Asenath M , who died November 3, 1804. The 
father of this family, who was a wagon maker and 
carriage builder by trade, well known and highly 
respected, died in August, 1866; in April, 1*77, 



the mother followed him to the grave, and they 
sleep their last sleep in the cemetery at Burgetts 
town. Tbey were both natives of Washington 
county, the father born in Donegal township. To 
Mr. and Mrs. Alien were born six children, of whom 
the following is a brief record: John E. is with his 
father; Harper Riddell is bis father's assistant in 
the office, and his special work now is prepar- 
ing the new index of the Orphans' Court, from 
the organization of the county up to date; Wesley 
Hays is also assistant clerk with his father (be was 
married in 1891 to Miss Dora E. Mounts, of Wash 
ington county; one child — a daughter — Helen M , 
has been born to them); William, died September 
11, 1SS1, and Effie, died August 28, 1881, both in 
infancy, .aged eleven and seven respectively; May 
nord Robert is attending Washington and Jeffer 
son College, freshman class. Mr. Allen is a Re- 
publican in his political preferences, and has served 
as burgess of Burgettstown, also as clerk of coun- 
cil. In 1880 he enumerated the census of the 
First Precinct of Smith township. Since coming 
to Washington he has served as director of the 
Keystone Building & Loan Association, a local 
organisation. 

For three generations preceding our subject, the 
family has been Presbyterian in its religious affil- 
iations and workers in the cause; it is, therefore, 
nothing of wonder that Mr. Allen and his eutire 
family are followers and supporters of the same 
principles and creed. Mr. Allen is a member and 
deacon of Dr. Brownson's (First Presbyterian) 
Church of Washington, aud is also a member of the 
Improved Order of Heptasophs, of Washington, 
having filled the office of " Archon " in the order 
since its organization. At the present time Mr. 
Allen is secretary of the school board of East 
Washington. 



||AMES GLENN DICKSON, M. D.,a resident 

for tbc> past fifty years of Canonsburg, Penn., 

fl| was born February 15, 1825, in what is now 

South Fayette township, Allegheny Co., 

Penn. His parents were William aud Mar 

garet (Glenn) Dickson. 

Dr. Dickson traces his ancestry in a direct line 
through a period of over three hundred years, and 
the year 1893 enables him to look upon the faces 
of the tenth generation. 

The earliest records, which have yet been ob- 
tained by Dr. Dickson, tell of one John Dickson, 
a merchant in Glasgow, Scotland, " a man of re 
ligious character and possessed of considerable 
wealth.'' This merchant with his good wife stirred 
up others to pray with aud for them, that the 
blessing of a son might be given them, "vowing 
that if their petition was granted they would de 
vote him to tlm service of the Lord.'' Such a son 





<2"*2-— -) 



UWSIIIXGTON COVXTY. 



159 



was the Rev. David Dickson, bom possibly in 1591, 
probably as early as 1583, as the exact date can 
not positively be stated. He was educated in the 
University of Glasgow, where he became a profes 
sor in 1641, remaining in that position until 1651, 
where he accepted a similar position in the Edin- 
bnrgh University. He was appointed minister to 
Irvine in 1618, and of him it has been said: '"The 
Professor of Divinity at Edinburgh was truly a 
great man: the Professor of Divinity at Glasgow was 
a greater man; but the minister of Irvine was the 
greatest man of all." His repudiation of the Five 
Articles of Perth, as issued by the General As-eni 
bly of the Church of Scotland in 1618, won for him 
much persecution, as well as great honor. He 
was pre-eminently a scholar, a preacher, a worthy 
Scotchman, as his biography and writings show. 
In all there are seven works, the offspring of his 
master intellect, copies of three of which, with a 
sketch of his life issued by the committee of the 
General Assembly of the Free Church of Scotland, 
are in possession of Rev. David Craig Stewart, of 
Hoboken, N. J., and were obtained of him recently 
in Edinburgh. 

Alexander Dickson, a sou of Rev. David Dick 
son, wrote the dedication in 1664 to the English 
preface of his father's last work, calling it a child 
of his father's old age — the English translation of 
Latin treatise on the subject of the Conscience; his 
father having died in 1663, probably eighty years 
old, certainly not younger than seventy-two. An- 
other son of Rev. David Dickson was John, who be- 
came a merchant in Edinburgh, Scotland; and this 
John established his sons David and George in 
mercantile business in Armagh, Ireland, as a 
branch of the Edinburgh house. 

The records show that three sous of the Armagh 
merchant, George Dickson, came to America, in 
eluding the family also of one of these three, that 
of Audrew, who had married a Seceder girl in Ar- 
magh previous to his emigration, and whose family 
record (Andrew's) is preserved in a Bible which 
gives the date of birth of each of his ten children, 
and the record of the marriage of nine of these. 
This Andrew Dickson, of the fifth generation thus 
fur traced, was great-grandfather of Dr. James G. 
Dickson of the eighth generation. 

The six elder children of Andrew Dickson were 
born in Ireland between the years 1734 and 1743, 
and the other four were born in America near 
Chambersburg, Penn., where their father had set- 
tled. The eldest of the four born in this coun 
try was Andrew, whose birth was in 1748, and 
who died in service in the Revolutionary army. • 
The Bible containing Audrew Dickson's family 
record is now over one hundred and sixty years 
old, and is in possession of Rev. David French 
Dickson, of East Palestine, Ohio, a nephew of 
Dr. Dickson. Andrew Dickson's children were 



named: Hannah, George, Jean, James, Esther, 
Sarah, Andrew, Agnes, Mary Ann and John 
George Dickson, the eldest son and second child 
in this family, was the grandfather of the sub 
ject of this sketch. George Dickson was born 
December 7, 1735, and died in tin- fall of 1817. 
He married, in 1770, Rachel McKee, then twenty 
nine years of age, a daughter of James McKee, .i| 
Chambersburg, Penn. In the summer of 1771' 
George came to Black Lick creek (now in Indiana 
couuty), accompanied by his younger brother, John, 
and bought 400 acres of laud. There they built 
a cabin, cleared what land they could during the 
summer, and then went back to Chambersburg for 
the winter. In 1773 they returned and cleared 
in. ne, ami in 1774 George moved his family into 
the cabin. He continued to clear and cultivate the 
land until 177S, when, in the greatest haste, they 
were obliged to flee upon receiving news of the 
Wyoming massacre and near approach of the In >st ile 
Indians. With his wife and their small children. 
James, Andrew and Agnes, all mounted upon two 
saddle horses, they summarily returned across the 
mountains to Chambersburg. In 1782 George and 
his brother John again visited their property in west 
era Pennsylvania to find everything in ashes. Com 
ing southward to Pittsburgh, suitable land was found 
and purchased by George Dickson, it being some 
440 acres on the north branch of Miller's run, and 
purchased from one Thomas Reed, an early settler, 
who held it under a patent grant. John Dickson 
went further west into Ohio, where he married and 
settled near Poland. 

The family of George Dickson numbered eight 
children — three sons and live daughters. These 
uncles and aunts to Dr. James Dickson were James, 
born January, 1772; Andrew, born May 27, 1775; 
Agnes, born February 27, 1777; Mary, born Sep- 
tember 4, 1780; Rachel, born November 13, 1782; 
Hannah, born November 18, 17S5; Elizabeth, born 
August 10, 1789; and William, the father of Dr. 
Dickson, born August 2, 1791. James, the eldest, 
married a Miss Frazee, and their family consisted 
of several daughters; James Dickson died in 
Cuyahoga county, Ohio. His brother, Andrew, 
also married a Miss Frazee, a sister of James' wife; 
Andrew died near DeKalb, Ohio, leaving a large 
family, chiefly sons. Agnes, the third child in 
George Dickson's family, died at the age of nine 
teen near Noblestown, Penn.; she had doubtless 
been named for her father's sister Agnes, the wife 
of Mr. Bryar, of Chambersburg. Mary, the fourth 
member of George Dickson's family, married 
Joseph Burnside, and resided near Canonsburg, 
where her death occurred at an advanced age, hav 
ing for many years before her death been totally 
blind; her family numbered three daughters and 
one son, namely: Margaret Jane (recently de- 
ceased), the wife of Rev. David Thompson, D. D. , 



160 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



of Monmouth, 111.; Rachel, wife of John Foley; 
Mary Anne, now Mrs. Haslep, of near Monmouth, 
111.; and George Dickson Burnside, who died a 
few years since on his farm near Canonshurg. 
Rachel Dickson, the fifth in George Dickson's 
family, died near Scottsville, Peuu., and was 
the wife of Solomon Irons; their family num- 
bered six children, viz. : James, John, Rachel, 
William, Joseph and Andrew. Hannah, George 
Dickson's sixth child, became the wife of Andrew 
Henderson, and of their six children four were 
sons, named respectively: George, John, Will- 
iam and Ebeuezer. Hannah Dickson Henderson 
died near Granville, 111. The next younger sister 
was Elizabeth, the seventh child of George Dick- 
son; she became the wife of James Stewart, and at 
her death which occurred near Clinton, Penu., 
left no family. The youngest child of the grand- 
father, George Dickson, was William, the father of 
Dr. James G. Dickson. 

William Dickson was born in South Fayette 
township, Allegheny Co., Penn., in 1791. On the 
death of his father he came into possession of the 
homestead, and became one of the most successful 
fanners in his part of the country, one of his spe- 
cialties being the rearing of tine-wool Merino sheep, 
his flock of such being the first introduced into 
his neighborhood. He was a man of exemplary 
piety, and honorable dealings with his neighbors. 
In the year of his father's death, 1817, he married, 
and was elected ruling elder, to till the vacancy 
caused by his father's demise, in the Nobles- 
town (Peuu.) Associate (now United Presbyterian) 
congregation, which office he continued to fill until 
his death, which occurred March 18, 1872, in his 
eighty-second year. He resided all his life on the 
farm where his father had spent the last thirty 
four years of his life. William Dickson was twice 
married, his first wife being Margaret Glenn, a 
daughter of James and Jennie (Buchanan) Glenn, 
who came to western Pennsylvania a few years 
subsequent to the arrival of William Dicksou's 
parents. The Glenns came from Lancaster county 
and settled in Westmoreland (now Allegheny) 
county, prior to 1800. Margaret Glenn was born 
in Lancaster county, Penn., in 1791. The mar- 
riage of William Dickson and Margaret Glenn oc- 
curred in 1817. Their children were as follows: 
Jennie Glenn, born August 21, 1818. died in in- 
fancy. May 9, 1819; Rachel, born July 18, 1820; 
George, born October 8, 1822: James Glenn, horn 
February 15, 1825; Joseph, bora December 10, 
1820, died February 9, 1827; Mary J., born April 
28, 1828; Andrew and William A. (twins), born 
June 15. 1831 (Andrew died in infancy, May 5, 
1832). The mother of these children died No- 
vember 18, 1852. at the age of sixty-one years. 
For his second wife William Dickson married, in 
1857, Susan Aikins, who preceded her husband a 



little over two weeks in entering the Heavenly 
home, her death occurring March 1, 1872, and 
their remains repose in the cemetery at Robinson 
Run church, where are also the remains of Will 
iam Dickson's parents. 

Rachel, daughter of William Dickson, became 
the wife of Robert Potter, and with her two 
daughters, Maggie D. and M. Lulu, has resided 
near Noblestown siuce the death of her husband, 
July 16, 1887. 

George Dickson, elder brother of Dr. Dickson. 
was married to Margaret French, daughter of Rev. 
David French, D. D., and her son, Rev. David 
French Dickson, has been mentioned earlier in 
this sketch. George Dickson's second wife was 
Eliza Glenn, who left no family at her death. In 
November, 1892, occurred the death of Annie 
Rankin, third wife of George Dickson. James 
Glenn Dickson is the next younger brother, and to 
present his lineage is the design of this sketch. 
Mary J. Dickson, a younger sister, married James 
Clark, and resided in Buffalo township, Washing- 
ton Co., Penn., until 1870, when they removed to 
Cauonsburg, where her husbaud's death occurred 
December 18, 1885. Their family consisted of 
Nettie, who died in infancy; William Dickson 
Clark, whose wife (now deceased) was Mrs. Lizzie 
McKeown; Marguerite S. , the wife of Culbert M. 
Greer; Anna Mary, the wife of Rev. David Craig 
Stewart; and James Addison Clark, who resides 
with his mother. 

William A. Dickson, the youngest of his father's 
family, like his father, William Dickson, came 
into possession of the ancestral estate, where with 
his family he resided for many years until his re- 
moval to the McBurney farm near Midway, Wash 
ington Co., Penn. His wife was Elizabeth Mc- 
Burney, daughter of Robert and Eliza (Welsh) 
McBurney. William A. Dickson's family of eight 
children are: Margaret, Elizabeth, Robert, Anna 
S. , William, Agnes, Walter and Bertha. William 
A. Dickson has in his possession his mother's 
Bible inscribed as follows: "Margaret Glenn, her 
book. August 12, 1812," which also contains 
record of the birth of each of Dr. Dickson's sisters 
and brothers. The ponderous volume "Boston's 
Complete Works " is in possession of Rev. David 
F. Dickson, and contains the annals previously 
quoted of Dr. Dickson's grandfather, George 
Dickson's family. 

Dr. James Glenn Dickson was brought up on 
his father's farm in South Fayette township, Alle 
ghenv county, and received his primary education 
at the subscription schools of the neighborhood, 
which was supplemented by a few terms at the 
public school, and instruction under the preceptor- 
ship of Rev. John M. French, pastor of the Asso- 
ciate Church at Noblestown; then in 1843 he en- 
tered Jefferson College, from which he graduated 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



161 



in LS47 under the presidency of Dr. Robert J. 
Breckeuridge, of Kentucky. In 1848 he com- 
menced the study of medicine with Dr. J. V. Har- 
riott, of Canonsburg, attending during the winters 
of 1SU)-50and 1850-51 Jefferson Medical College, 
Philadelphia, Peun., where in the spring of 1851 
he received his medical diploma. In the summer 
of that year he commenced the practice of his 
chosen profession at Mount Jackson, Lawrence Co., 
Penn., remaining there one year. Then at the 
solicitation of his preceptor. Dr. Herriott. he re- 
turned to Canonsburg and entered into a partner- 
ship with him, which existed about two years, at 
tlic end of which time Dr. Herriott removed to 
Philadelphia, Dr. Dickson continuing the practice 
alone in Canonsburg. Upon the return of his old 
partner, after an absence of several years, Dr. 
Dickson again associated with him, but at the end 
of three years Dr. Herriott moved to Valparaiso, 
Ind., since when our subject has been alone in his 
professional practice. He has enjoyed an un- 
broken, most successful practice of over forty years 
in Canonsburg, a longer period than has fallen to 
the lot of any other physician of the place. 

Dr. Dickson was married September 4, 1856, t" 
Margaret H. Buchanan, who was born February 
28, 1828, in North Strabane township, Washing- 
ton Co., Peun., a daughter of Alexander and Mary 
(Miller) Buchanan. Two children were born to 
Dr. Dickson and wife, viz.: Mary Jeannette and 
William Alexander, both living with their parents. 
William A. was married September 24, 1885, to 
Margaret Gabby Allison (daughter of Hon. Jona- 
than and Margaret (Gabby) Allison), whose death 
occurred September 6, 1886, followed six weeks 
later by the death of their infant daughter, Mag 
gie Olive. On October 23, 1800, occurred the 
marriage of William A. Dickson and Mary Lizzie 
Martin, daughter of Dr. John W. and Elizabeth 
(Allison) Martin. Thoir infant daughters are 
Aneita Marie and Margaret Elizabeth, who, with 
their parents, are part of Dr. Dickson's household. 
The family are members of the United Presbj 
terian Church, the Doctor having united with it 
when it was known as the Associate Church. Po- 
litically, he was first an Old line Whig, and, since 
the organization of the party, he has been a stanch 
Republican. The commodious family residence 
was built by the Doctor some eight years ago, on 
the corner of Pike street and Greenside avenue. 
The years herein recounted bring the Dickson 
lineage through ten generations; of the tenth 
there are in direct line eight representatives, viz. : 
Three children of Rev. David F. and Annie M. 
(McCready) Dickson— George, David and Zetta; 
three grandchildren Q f ji ary j (£)j c ksoii) Clark, 
viz. : Clark and Lucile Greer, son and daughter 
of Culbert Means Greer and Marguerite S. (Clark) 
Greer, and Anna Mary, daughter of Rev. David 



Craig Stewart and Anna M. (Clark) Stewart; 
added to these the Doctor's two graudchildri'ii, be 
fore named (Aneita Marie and Margaret Elizabeth), 
and the eight representatives of the teu^h genera 
tion from John Dickson, of Glasgow, Scotland, 
are recounted. 

The Doctor is wedded to his profession, and as 
he is by nature, as well as by education, emi- 
nently qualified for his, the most benevolent of 
all professions, he commands and enjoys the re 
spect and confidence of his many patrons. 



GOL. CHILLION WASHBURNE HAZ 
ZARD, editor and proprietor of the Mo i 
gahela Republican, was born in Mononga 
hela City, Peun., May 5, 1849, in the same 
house and in the same room in which his mother 
was born and married. lie is a son of Hon. 
Thomas R. Hazzard and Harriet M. Hamilton, the 
former of whom was born in Chemung county, N. 
Y. The paternal ancestor of Thomas R. Hazzard 
was from the North of Ireland. 

C. W. Hazzard was educated in the common 
schools of Monongahela City, and afterward at 
tended an academy taught by Henry Lee, at West 
Newtou, Westmoreland Co.. Peun. Mr. Lee was 
formerly a professor in Washington College, arjd 
belonged to the celebrated Lee family, prominent 
in the Revolution, and some of whose descendants 
were leaders in the Confederate service during the 
Civil war. After completing his education in West 
Newton, he entered the Monongahela Republican 
printing office as an apprentice. His father pur 
chased the newspaper plant, and admitted his son 
to a joint ownership. This he left, However, to 
accept a commission in the Twelfth Pennsylvania 
Reserves. He served through the war, ami left 
the service a brevet major at the close of the cam- 
paign. He was in forty two rights, including 
Draiuesville (December 20. 1861), Mechanicsville, 
Gaines' Mills. Newmarket Cross Roads, Malvern 
Hill, Second Bull Run, South Mountain, Autietam, 
Fredericksburg (where he was wounded), Gettys- 
burg, Bristoe Station, Mine Run, Wilderness 
(seven days), Spottsylvania (his brevet reading 
"promoted for gallantry at Spottsylvania"), North 
Anna and Bethesda Church. He is specially men- 
tioned in general orders for gallantry in action, as 
appears in the official records of the Rebellion 
published by Congress. In 1863 Capt. Hazzard 
was transferred from the line to the staff as Di- 
vision mustering officer, and served in that capac 
ity with Gens. Sykes, Crawford and McCandless. 
After the war he returned home and resumed the 
publication of the Monongahela Republican, of 
which he then became publisher and editor. On 
the formation of the National Guard of Pennsyl- 
vania after the war, Col. Hazzard was made 



162 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



Assistant, Adjutant-general of the Seventeenth Di- 
vision, on the staff of Maj.-Gen. Thomas F. Gal- 
lagher, with the rank of colonel. On the reorgan- 
ization of *the guard, he was appointed on the staff 
of Gen. James A. Beaver, as a brigade inspector- 
general, serving as such until his chief was elected 
Governor of the Commonwealth. Col. Hazzard 
then relinquished his position in the National 
Guard. He has served in various military posi- 
tions of a civil character: as president of the 
Washington County (Penn.) Veteran Association; 
is one of the managers of the 'Gettysburg Battle 
field Memorial Association; is secretary of the 
Pennsylvania Reserve Veteran Association; was 
elected Commander of the Department of Penn 
sylvauia, G. A. R. , at Reading, January 30, 1880, 
and has been several times chairman of the com- 
mittee on resolutions in the National Encampment, 
of which body he has attended every encampment 
since the organization of the G. A. R., except that 
at San Francisco, Cal. He has been somewhat in 
demand as a speaker on G. A. R. occasions, and 
has delivered over two hundred addresses in its in- 
terests. As a newspaper man, he has been thirty 
nine years a printer, during thirty years of which 
he has been editor. He has been secretary of the 
Editorial Association of Western Pennsylvania, 
Virginia and Eastern Ohio since its organization. 
He was made postmaster of his native city almost 
immediately after leaving the service, and resigned 
on the day when Mr. Cleveland was first inaugu- 
rated. He was the first State president of the Pa- 
triotic Order of the Junior Sous of America, and 
for six years published its official organ, a monthly 
journal called the Junior's Friend. In 1880 he 
established the daily edition of the Monongahela 
Republican, now in the twelfth year of its existence. 
He is a prominent Freemason, and has taken 
all of the degrees to the thirty-third, Sir Knight 
twenty-second, and is a member of Syria Temple, 
Mystic Shrine. He served for four consecutive 
years as Grand Regent of the Royal Arcanum of 
the State of Pennsylvania, and is at this writing 
Supreme Vice Regent of the Order at large. 

Col. Hazzard was united in marriage with Miss 
Mary B. Goff, and they have two children: De- 
Vernon, a student at Washington College, and 
Harriet H. Col. Hazzard is ably assisted in his 
editorial office by Miss Jane King, who promises 
to be one of the brightest newspaper writers in the 
State. He was secretary of the Monongahela 
Valley Agricultural Society, and one of the di- 
rectors in the Monongahela Driving Association. 
He is a trustee, on behalf of the State, of the Cal- 
ifornia Normal College, and a trustee of the Mo- 
nongahela Memorial Hospital. Col. Hazzard has 
two brothers: Joseph De V., an orange grower in 
Florida, and T. L. Hazzard, M. D., professor of 
physiology in the Western Pennsylvania Medical 



College, at Pittsburgh. Mr. and Mrs. Hazzard 
attend the First Presbyterian Church at Mononga- 
hela City. 



R\¥f N. PATTEN, M.D., is a physician of large 
II VI practice and wide reputation, one who lias 

M earned his success in life, beginning when 
JJ - 1 a boy on his father's farm, in the endeavor 
v to climb the ladder of life. He is a native 

of Pennsylvania, born in Union township, Wash 
ington county, January 1 1, 1847, a sou of William 
(a farmer) and Isabella (Porter) Patten, the latter 
of whom was a sister of Mrs. Morrison (mother of 
Mrs. Alexander, of Monongahela City). They 
were the parents of nine children, of whom the 
following is a brief record: one son died in infancy; 
Matthew is a farmer in Iowa; Martha and Eliza- 
beth are both residents of Union township, this 
county; Mary is the wife of Thomas Estep, and 
lives in East End, Pittsburgh, Penn. ; William J. 
is a farmer in Kansas; Sarah Belle lives in Union 
township; Newton N. is the. subject of this sketch; 
J. Alfred is in Union township. The father died 
in 1886, aged eighty-seven years four mouths; the 
mother is yet living, aged eighty eight years seven 
months. 

N. N. Patten received a liberal education at the 
common schools of his native township, which was 
supplemented with a course of study at Elder's 
Ridge (Penn. ) Academy. Subsequently he entered 
Washington and Jefferson College, from which he 
graduated in 1809. He then commenced the study 
of mediciue in Monongahela City with Dr. M. P. 
Morrison, a cousin, and attended lectures at Jef 
ferson Medical College, which granted him his de- 
gree of M. D. in 1873. Dr. Patten at once com- 
menced the practice of his profession in Pittsburgh, 
Penn., which he followed there with eminent suc- 
cess for a period of ten years; then for three years 
was the head physician at the Pittsburgh City 
Farm, Homestead, Penn. In 1880 Dr. Patten re- 
moved to Monongahela City, where he has since 
been in the general practice of his profession, his 
ride being a very wide one, his skill as a physician, 
and his courteous and social manner as a gentle 
man, having made him extremely popular, and sur 
rounded him with hosts of friends. The Doctor in 
politics is a Republican; in church connection, a 
Presbyterian. 



d'OHN F.COOPER, cashier of the People's 
Bank of Monongahela City, was born Decern - 
J ber 7, 1847, in Fallowfield township, Wash- 
ington Co., Penn., on the farm which he now 
owns and occupies, and which was the prop, 
erty of his father before him. 

One of the earliest settlers in what is now Fal- 



WASHINGTON COV.\ n 



103 



lowtit'ld township was Frederick Cooper, a native 
of Germany, who emigrated to this country prior 
to 1770, and first settled in Frederick county, Va., 
where he lived until 1771. Ou April 20 of that 
year he came to this region, which was yet a wil- 
derness, and purchased from Andrew Devore "one 
certain tract or parcel of land lying on the north 
side of the Monongahela, and bounded by lands of 
Paul Froman and James Devore." A peculiarity 
about the description of the said tract of land was 
that the quantity was not mentioned. He retained 
this tract of land about a year, and sold it to 
Abraham Miller in April 1772. At that time the 
boundary dispute between Pennsylvania and Vir 
giuia was raging, both provinces claiming jurisdic- 
tion over this region. Bedford county had been 
erected March 9, 1771, and the inhabitants of the 
Monongahela Valley were called upon to pay their 
shares of the taxes to maintain the county govern- 
ment. And the majority of these having come from 
Maryland and Virginia, and being doubtful, in the 
absence of an established western boundary, 
whether they were living under the government of 
Pennsylvania or that of Virginia, resistance to the 
collection of these taxes followed. On this account 
much ill feeling and turbulence prevailed, and con, 
tinned for some years, steps being finally taken by 
the two colonies, in 1780, for a permanent settle- 
ment of the boundary contention, and the jurisdic- 
tion of Virginia was withdrawn. Washington 
county was erected March 28, 1781. 

When Frederick Cooper first came here, he left 
a wife and three children — John, Mary and Eliz 
abeth — in the East. Owing to the feuds, discords 
and litigations amongst the inhabitants of the con- 
tending jurisdictions, because of the boundary con- 
troversy and the resultant inability of the settlers 
to make adequate defense against the Indians who 
had again become troublesome, he sold his land to 
Abraham Miller in 1772, and returned to the East, 
remaining there several years. His wife having 
died, he married Elizabeth Kyle, returned to this 
county with his family, and purchased 287 acres of 
land which had been warranted on April 17, 1760, 
to Jacob Froman, and surveyed under the name of 
" Wrangle." The warrant was returned to Fred- 
erick Cooper December 27, 1784, and he lived 
upon this land the remainder of his lifetime. From 
one of a series of historical sketches of early fam- 
ilies written by Dr. J. S. Van Voorhis is gleaned 
the following: Of the children of Frederick 
Cooper, Catherine became the wife of Thomas 
Ward, who' built the first house in Belle Vernon; 
Margaret married John Roland, and both died near 
Wooster, Ohio; Abraham removed to Guernsey 
county, Ohio; Frederick owned a farm in the 
"Dutch settlement,'' and was the father of Samuel 
and F. K. Cooper, all now deceased; Rebecca be 
came the wife of Daniel Jacobs; George removed 



to Ohio; Valentine lived and died (a very aged 
man) ou the original Cooper homestead at the 
mouth of Maple creek, a farmer and distiller by 
occupation. 

The names of the children of Valentine Cooper 
were Jackman, Washington, Jehu, Frederick, 
Elizabeth, Nancy, Narcissa and Josiah C. Of 
these, Jackman died in Upshur county, W. Va. ; 
Washington has special mention further on; Jehu 
removed to Marshall county, 111. ; Frederick was a 
school teacher, and died in 1852; Nancy married 
Newton Van Voorhis, and both are now deceased; 
Elizabeth became the wife of Apollos Spiers, who 
lived in Allen township opposite Belle Vernon; 
Narcissa married Martin Weaver, and removed to 
Huron county, Ohio; Josiah C. is still living, and 
is a practicing physician in Philadelphia. 

Washington Cooper, second son of Valentine, al- 
ways remained a citizen of Fallowtield township, 
where he was born. He was twice married, first 
to Sarah A. Thompson, by whom he had five chil 
dren: Margaret A., Mary E., Sarah A., Narcissa 
and Malinda J., all now deceased. Mr. Cooper's 
second wife was Ruth A. Graves, who was born in 
I 8 1 5 in West Pike Bun township, this county, a 
daughter of John and Ann Graves, Quakers, who 
came from near Wilmington, Del., and settled in 
West Pike Run township, Washington county, 
where theypurchased a farm. They were regular 
attendants of the Friends' meeting house, a short 
distance from their residence, and were universally 
respected. Five children were born to them, viz. : 
Albina, who married Josiah John, a Quaker, and 
they resided in Pike Run township; Jehu, who mar 
ried and after his wife's death moved, with his 
two children, to Marshall county, 111. ; Taylor, who 
married Susan Borom, and lived on the homestead 
farm in Pike Run township; Ruth A.; and Mary 
A. , who married Ellis Johnson, and they afterward 
lived in Stark county, Ohio (he died in his one- 
hundredth year, and she lived to a ripe old age; 
the late Hon. James G. Blaine was a pupil of hers). 
The children born to Washington and Ruth A. 
(Graves) Cooper were five in number, as follows: 
John F., our subject; Eli M., who was born in 
1849, and died in 1889 unmarried; Charles J., de 
ceased in infancy; Jehu V., a farmer in Fallowfield 
township, owning a place of 100 acres, a portion 
of the old homestead (In- married Jennie V. Wil- 
son, and they have four children living); and 
Annie A., wife of William West, a farmer in Sum 
ner county, Tenn. The father died in October, 
18(50, aged sixty-six years; the mother resides with 
her son John F. 

John F. Cooper attended the common schools of 
his township, which were above the average of 
country schools, in the meantime assisting his 
father on the farm. In 1881 he was elected 
register of wills for Washington county, and re- 



164 



WASHINGTON COUM) 



elected in 1884, serving two terms. At the expira- 
tion of his term of office, in 1888, be returned to 
the farm, where lie remained until January 1, 
1891, when he assumed the duties of cashier of 
the People's Bank of Monongahela City, he hav 
ing been elected to that position in December, 
IS 1 ." I. On January 19, 1871, Mr. Cooper was 
united in marriage with Miss Sarah J. Crow, who 
was born in Fallowfield township, this county, a 
daughter of Benjamin and Susan (Thompson) 
('row. Squire Crow was born in Washington 
county, and was a farmer and carpenter, also a 
justice of the peace a number of years. Mrs. 
Crow was born in Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. John F. 
Cooper had born to them seven children, viz. : 
Frederick F., clerk for the Catsburg Coal Co. ; 
Olive R., Alice O, Frances J., George W., Ethel 
E. and Charles Mcllvain. The mother died Janu- 
ary 23, 1888. She was a member of the M. E. 
Church, Mr. Cooper of the Presbyterian Church. 
He resides with his children on the old homestead 
farm, which he owns, four miles southwest of 

M ngahela City, on the Brownsville road in 

Fallowtield township. The farm comprises 113 
acres, and he raises thereon grain and stock. 




ILLIAM BOYLE HOUSTON. The 
f Houston family of Canonsburg, Wash 
Jl ing county, are descended from the family 
— ' of that name in Lancaster county, same 
State, who emigrated from Scotland to 
Ireland and thence to this country, settling in Lan- 
caster county, Penn. We quote the following 
from "The Encyclopedia of Contemporary-Biog- 
raphy of Pennsylvania:" 

''The Houstons of Pennsylvania come of a race 
noted for its physical and mental strength. They 
trace their lineage far back into the days of chival- 
rous Scotland, when the destinies of the land of 
heath and heather were dominated by the tyrannical 
Edward I of England. The Houston came in- 
to existence during the life of the valorous Wallace. 
Its origin, however, goes back to the time of Sir 
Hugh de Pavinan, the Laird of the Lands of Kil- 
peter in Strathgrief, and comes in a direct line 
through the oldest sous down to the present time. 
The baronetcy is now held by George Ludovic 
Houston, of Johnstone. Renfrewshire, Scotland. 
The younger sons of the original family migrated 
from their native land to the North of Ireland, in 

the early part of the seventeentl ntury, and are 

.now scattered through the Counties of Antrim, 
Tyrone, Donegal and Londonderry. From them 
came that branch of the family that settled in 
Lancaster county, Penn., between the years 1725 
and 1730, and from the Lancaster county Hous- 
tons, branch out the Houstons of Virginia and 
Tennessee, and the famous Sam Houston of Texas, 



the hero who battled with Santa Anna, and who 
was the first president of the Republic. " 

The following is from the " History of Lancas- 
ter County:'' 

" The Houstons of Lancaster county, Penn., are 
the descendantsof John Houston, who had six sons 
and two daughters born at the farm immediately 
facing Gap Station on the Pennsylvania Railroad. 
The sons were Daniel, John, William, James, 
Thomas and Samuel. The daughters were mar 
ried, one to Rev. Alexander Proudfit, the other to 
Mr. John Johnson. Both daughters had large 
families. The five elder boys (Samuel was too 
young) were soldiers in the Revolutionary war, and 
with the exception of James, who was killed at 
Paoli, fought through the war. After the war 
Daniel went to Franklin county and afterward to 
Washington county; William went to Trumbull 
county, Ohio; Thomas went to Rockbridge county, 
Va. The youngest son, Samuel Nelson, remained 
in Lancaster county. Penn. He was distinguished 
for his splendid physical manhood. After gradu- 
ating from Burlington College he gave his atten- 
tion in his earl}' years to the study of materia 
medica and pharmacy. But he did not repress 
the martial nature which was within him, for he 
became an active member of Capt. Shippen's 
troop of horse in Lancaster county, and took part 
in the war of 1812. 

" Dr. John Houston, the second son, studied in 
the University of Edinburgh, where he graduated 
in 1706. He studied medicine with Dr. Shippen, 
of Philadelphia, and began practice in York county, 
Penn., then a frontier town. In 1773 he married 
Susannah Wright, of Columbia. He entered the 
Revolutionary army as a surgeon. His eldest 
brother, Daniel, also a Revolutionary soldier, moved 
from Lancaster county to Franklin county, where 
he remained a short time, then moved to Washing- 
ton county, settling in the neighborhood of Cross 
Creek township. His son, Daniel, born in Frank- 
lin county, was a man of more than ordinary intel- 
ligence and executive ability, a worthy represents 
tive of the Scotch Irish Covenanters. He was tall, 
broad-shouldered, erect and possessed of great 
strength. He early engaged in buying and shipping 
wool, flour and pork; loading boats with (lour and 
wool at the mouth of Cross creek, and boating to 
New Orleans. Few people have any idea of the 
courage, endurance and strength required to make 
such a trip. There were no canals or railroads. 
The river was full of malaria, and the channels 
were not marked as now ; worse than this, he was 
compelled to guard against robbers and murderous 
savages — both white and red — on the return walk 
ing back. Mr. Houston made many trips of this 
kind, and was always successful. He had the con- 
fidence and respect of all. He was gentle and 
severe, firm and unchangeable when satisfied he 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



165 



was right ; he had a mind for equity, and was 
chosen executor and guardian by many of the best 
families, both alone and as an associate with oth- 
ers. The Rev. James I. Brownson informs us he 
knew Daniel when he (Rev. James I. Brownson) 
was a boy. He says: 'Daniel Houston was a man 
of strict integrity, possessed of great mental and 
physical strength, of a tine face and presence, 
Btrong in his likes and dislikes, a firm friend and 
generous to those worthy his confidence.' Daniel 
Houston and Dr. Brownson's father were friends, 
and were also administrators for the same estates. 
Daniel Houston was opposed to slavery and was, 
no doubt, connected with the underground railway, 
but he had his own views. Dr. Brownson asked 
him if he was going to the Abolitionist meeting at 
Pittsburgh; he said: No! he was in favor of colo 
nization. His religious views were the same as 
his ancestors, and he always adhered to the Seceder 
Church. At Houstonville a Seceder church was 
erected on a lot given by David Houston, his 
son, on the Daniel Houston farm. This church is 
still standing, in the possession of their son, Will 
iam B. Houston. Daniel Houston was one of the 
organizers of the old Franklin Bank of Washington, 
Penn , now known as the First National; was tin' 
largest stockholder, and at one time president of 
tin' bank. He was also a trustee of Jefferson Col- 
lege, Canonsburg. Daniel Houston was progres- 
sive and public-spirited. When the Chartiers Rail 
road was projected many years ago, Daniel Houston 
took great interest in it and subscribed some $0,(100 
to help put it through. The company that then 
had charge of the work failed, however, and the 
enterprise remained in a dormant condition for 
many years. Finally, the Pennsylvania Railroad 
Company offered to complete the road on condition 
(hat the people would take stock to the amount of 
$'251 » 000. D. C. Houston (son of Daniel) at once 
took hold of the project, subscribed liberally him- 
self, and worked untiringly to induce people to take 
stock and secure the road. Owing to his efforts 
and the confidence the people had in him, $87,000 
was secured. 

" Daniel Houston married Miss Betsey Clark, who 
was born on the old homestead farm of her father 
in Canton township, now owned by Samuel K. 
Weirick. She was a daughter of David and Han- 
nah Baird Clark [Baird was originally Bard, and 
was Scotch ]. David Clark was born near Mercers- 
burg, Franklin Co. , Penn., and was a son of James 
Clark and Nancy (Reed) Clark; they were of 
Sooth descent. James Clark was born in the North 
of Ireland, and came with his brother, Thomas, 
to Pennsylvania. Thomas settled in one of the 
Honthern States. James Clark was married in 
Lancaster county, Penn. Daniel Houston was a 
great reader, and while his early opportunities for 
obtaining an education were limited, he made the 



most of these opportunities and became a careful, 
safe and successful business man, and was univer- 
sally trusted and respected as an upright, honor- 
able man. Rev. David Riddle, president of Jef- 
ferson College (of which Daniel Houston was a 
prominent trustee), preached his funeral sermon, 
and in recounting his many sterling qualities as a 
friend, citizen, neighbor and business man, said : 
' You might as well try to move the Alleghany 
Mountain from its base as to shake the integrity 
of Daniel Houston.' Daniel Houston and wife, 
Betsey (Clark) Houston, had three children — one 
son and two daughters, David, the son, being the 
only survivor, the girls dying in childhood. 

" David Houston was born on the old farm of his 
father in Independence township, was educated in 
the common schools and at Jefferson College; in 
early life engaged in mercantile pursuits, but later 
retired from mercantile life and looked after 
the estate inherited from his father, who was 
a large landowner. For many years David 
Houston was a director in the First National 
Bink of Washington. He was a resident of Can 
onsburg at the time of his death, which occurred 
May 27, 1888, when he was in his seventy-third 
veu. He whs a public spirited, charitable, gener 
oils, whole-souled Christian gentleman, was active 
in his efforts to secure the location of the Chartiers 
Valley Railroad, and fo^ many years, and up to the 
time of his death, a trustee of Washington and 
Jefferson College, a trustee of Jefferson Academy, 
president of the Oak Spring Cemetery Company, 
and held other positions of trust. Mr. Houston 
and his father served continually as directors of 
the First National Bank of Washington, Penn., 
from its organization; and the discharge of their 
duties was marked by a regularity in attendance, 
by uniform courtesy to other members of the 
board and by a watchful care over the interests of 
the institution. The funeral services of Mr. 
David Houston were held in the Chartiers U. P. 
Church, of which he had for many years been an 
honored and worthy member. His liberality in 
the church and his charities to those in need are 
well known. No one in trouble or need appealed 
to him in vain. He was always ready with sym 
pathyand something more substantial when needed. 
In 1840 he married, at Washington, Penn., Miss 
Louisa Bell Sweitzor, who was born in Brownsville, 
Penn., a daughter of Dr. Louis Sweitzer, of Doyles- 
town, Bucks Co. , Penn., who graduated from a 
medical college in Paris, France. He and his 
wife had children as follows: William, who became 
associated with a dry-goods firm of Philadelphia, 
Penn. (he afterward went to California, where he 
engaged in the mercantile and real estate busi- 
ness on his own account, and in which he was 
successful; he contracted a fever, and while con- 
valescing started for Philadelphia, but died en 



16(1 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



route, and was buried at sea); Dr. Louis, Jr., who 
became a physician and practiced medicine at 
Claysville, Washington county; Alonza B., who, 
previous to his emigration to Gonzales, Tex., ac- 
quired the profession of law and medicine, after 
which he spent some time in the military academy 
at West Point and was classmate of Gen. U. S. 
Grant (he had been a member of the National Con- 
gress of Texas from the county in which he was a 
resident at the time of his death, and he enjoyed 
the undivided confidence and esteem of all who 
knew him; he died aged thirty-three years and 
some months); Mary A., who married Samuel 
Wise, of Vincennes, Ind. ; Elizabeth, who died 
young; Emma, who married, January 24, 183B, 
Col. Marmatel Boyle, a nephew of Gen. Boyle, of 
Kentucky (she was considered one of the most 
beautiful women of her day; they had two chil 
dren — one son who was a prominent judge, of 
Vincennes, Ind.); Cecelia L., who was married 
September 1'.', 1N37, to John Imbria, of New Castle, 
Penn., and they had two sons, prominent business 
men of Philadelphia, Penn. ; Louisa Bell, wife of 
David Houston; Harriet, who was married to John 
Vowell, of Washington, Penn; and two children: 
Louis Sweitzer Vowell, a druggist of Washington, 
Penn., and Bessie, wife of F. O. Graper, of To- 
ledo, Ohio. David Houston and wife had six 
children — three sons and three daughters: Miss 
Elizabeth, of Cauonsburg; Mary wife of Rev. W. 
F. Brown, D. D., also in Canonsbnrg; Louis 
Sweitzer, who died aged twenty-four years; Will 
iam Boyle, executor of the estate, Canons- 
burg; Harriet, who died unmarried aged twenty- 
two years, and Daniel, who died in childhood, 
aged three years. " Immediately after the death 
of Daniel Houston his son David took possesion 
of the farm, and in 1N71 divided a large portion of 
it into lots, which were soon sold, and now a thriv- 
ing town, named Houstonville, is seen, where a 
few years ago were cultivated fields. The remain- 
ing part of this farm is now in the possession of 
Mr. W. B. Houston, and thus continues to bear 
the family name. The first survey of lots of 
Houstonville, was made by Thomas H. Johnston, 
and the first house was built by Mr. A. T. Haft in 
1871. 



JAMES GIBSON HART, the subject of this 
sketch, was born January 2, 1807, on Muddy 
run, Adams Co., Penn. Looking back from 
that date, beyond three generations, history 
holds closed doors to the chronicler of all, or 
any, of the manners, customs, sayings, doings, 
facial expressions, or physical build, of that branch 
of the Hart family who subsequently settled in 
Somerset township, Washington Co., Penn. ; and 
within that limit, indeed, held open doors only, to 



deal out material scantily that only the ground 
timbers of a history have been vouchsafed to future 
generations. Therefore, very little is known, save 
that Nathaniel Hart (1), tired of the thraldom and 
despotic rule of kings and queens, and notwith- 
standing Columbia was then in her infancy, yet, 
rocked in the same cradle, was the Goddess of 
Liberty and Freedom, the vital principles of future 
America, the very pulse of the young nation, and 
while at that period there could be no conception 
of the magnitude of the benefits and blessings that 
was to be unfolded to a future people, yet he saw 
with a prophetic eye the glorious privileges of In- 
dependence in the land of the free, and said: 
"Their land shall he my land, their God my God." 
Consequently, in about 1730, he sailed from fair 
Scotia's shores to the fairer shores of America. 

His journey ended when he pitched his tent on 
Muddy run, Adams Co., Penn. Nothing is fur- 
ther known of his family, except two sons, Nathan 
iel (2) and Micah. The last named afterward set 
tied rrear Norwich, Ohio (date not known). In 
171)9 Nathaniel Hart (2) married Margaret Mon 
teith, and lived on Muddy run, Adams county, 
Penn. In that home were born four children: 
David, in 1770; Jane, in 1773; Margaret, iir 1782; 
Mary, irr 1785. Of these, Jane married John 
Kerr, lived and died near Gettysburg, and had 
four children. Margaret married Nathaniel Pax- 
ton, in 1804, and removed to Somerset township, 
Washington Co., Penn., in 1812. The numerous 
Paxton families throughout the northern part of 
Washington county, Penn., and parts of Ohio, are 
descendants of Nathaniel and Margaret (Hart) 
Paxton. Mary came with her sister Margaret in 
L812; in 18 — she married Smith McCollough, of 
Pigeon Creek. But to return to Nathaniel Hart 
(2). He died in 1787, on Muddy run, Adams 
county; his wife, Margaret (Monteith) Hart, died 
in 1785, Leaving the fourchildren, orphans. When 
David was eleven years of age he assumed the 
entire management of the homestead, and cared as 
a father for his three sisters. He married Sarah 
Paxton (sister of the above-spoken of Nathaniel), 
still remaining on Muddy rim until the spring of 
1807, when he and his estimable wife, feeling the 
advantages and future welfare of their family de- 
manded removal farther west, sundered the strong 
ties that bound them to their childhood's home, 
and when James Gibson, their third child and the 
subject of this sketch, was seven weeks old, started 
on their joUrney, coming through on horseback, 
and arriving in Somerset township, Washington 
Co., Penn., about the 1st of April, tire doors of 
their dwelling being all under water the night they 
arrived. In this home they lived and died. Six 
children were added to their family after removal 
to Washington county, making nine by first mar 
riage as follows: Andrew, born in Adams county, 




t y 




PtsZr. 




II ASBlNGTOb COl XTY. 



169 



in 1803, died in Canonsburg, Washington county, 
August, 1861; Jane, born in Adams county, 1805, 
married Henry Newkirk, removed to Ohio, died in 
IS — ; James Gibson (our subject), born January 
2, 1807, the last child bom in Adams county; 
David, the first child born in the new borne, in 
1809, died in Ashland county, Ohio, March 30, 
1872; Maria Hart Fergus, born in 1811, died in 
Washington Jauuary 30, 1888; William, the 
youngest son by first marriage, born 1819, is still 
living iu the eastern part of Washington county, 
Penn. (Dates of birth and death of the remaining 
three of the nine are not known to the writer). 
But just when youth was buoyant with hope, and 
life replete with bright promises, death claimed 
their two sons, John and Paxton, and daughter 
Sarah. It was then the father was made to feel 
deeply that " In sorrow'scup flash.»i| bitter wines," 
and that his " House was left unto him desolate," 
as about the same time his wife was taken from 
him, dying in 18 — . In 18 — he married Mrs. 
Margery Butler, to whom were born three chil 
dren: Margaret Hart Ken, who resides in Monon 
gahela, Penn.; Eliza Hart Hosae, living in Scenery 
Hill, Penn., and Dunning Hart, the present owner 
of Lowland Stock Farm, Washington county, 
Penn. He too was left, as was his father, at the 
age of sixteen, the care of his mother and two sis 
ters, his father dying October 1, 1852. His second 
wife, Margery, died January 2, 1871, and, now, after 
these long years, the writer feels prompted to add 
a few words to his memory, not to eulogize, bnl 
simple unvarnished truths. He was a man of no 
(inordinary intellect, a thorough Bible scholar, his 
character unimpeachable, distinguished for up- 
rightness and sterling integrity; he had an indom- 
itable will, a characteristic inherited from the 
Scotch Irish race, and which has been transmitted 
all along the line, neither friend nor foe could 
swerve him from what he considered the line of 
duty; yet allied to this unyielding will was a keen 
discriminating judgment, and soundness of decis- 
ion, generous, gentle and kind, traits that made 
him a safe counselor and guide, and secured for 
him the esteem and confidence of an extended 
community. In short, he was a just man who 
feared God and wrought righteousness, and was 
eminently useful in his day and generation, both 
in the church and in the world. 

This brings us to James G. Hart, the subject 
proper of our sketch, who, as before said, became a 
resident of Washington county, Penn., from Adams 
county, in the spring of 1807, when he was seven 
weeks old. He remained in the home nest until 
eighteen years of age, when self-reliance (the 
strongly marked trait of his character) asserted 
itself, and he determined by energy and industry 
to be self-sustaining, and provide a resting place 
for old age; consequently he engaged with Robert 



Moore to learn -the trade of carder and fuller. 
Having finished his trade, he started in business 
for himself, in West Pike Run township, Wash 
ington Co., Penn., manufacturing goods of dif- 
ferent kinds and grades. He was always awarded 
the first premium for the extra quality and texture 
of his broadcloths, and other goods put Oil exhibition 
at what was then known as the " Cattle Show," 
at Washington, now our Agricultural Fair, and 
he manufactured the tirst piece of broadcloth ever 
exhibited at a Washington county fair. 

In 1831 he married Isabel] Moffitt, still living, 
and following his trade in West Pike Run town- 
ship until, 1838, he removed to Centreville, a vil 
lage six miles west of Brownsville, where he 
engaged in the dry goods business. His wife 
[sabell died in 1S40, leaving four children, as fol 
lows: David Moffitt, their eldest son, with his 
family resides at this time in Brownsville, Fayette 
Co., Penn., was married twice; his first wife, Miss 
Pera Rex; his present wife, Miss Pissa S. Wilgus. 
Maj. James 1'. Hart, his second son, married Miss 
Lide J. Aiken, of Washington, Penn.; was treas- 
urer of Washington county in 1868 and 1869; he 
with his family reside in Washington, D. C. Liz 
zie J., the only daughter by this marriage, mar 
ried Chauncey R. Dever; they, and their only 
child, James Hart Dever (the tirst grandchild), 
are living in Washington, Penn. John T., the 
youngest child, died while in the army at Cumber- 
land, Md., April 27, 1864 In 1842 he married 
Margery Gregg, by whom were six children; he 
pursued the dry-goods business successfully until 
1848, when, feeling that the future welfare of his 
family demanded an extension of his lines, he, when 
his sixthson, Brit Hart, was seven weeks old (same 
age as he himself was when he came from Adams 
county), removed to a farm in West Bethlehem 
township, one mile from what was then Hillsboro, 
now Scenery Hill. 

He took a deep interest in the questions and 
political issues of the day. His own community 
ever found him an ardent friend and benefactor to 
all worthy objects, a strong advocate of education; 
but his "pet" was the common-school system, 
and he zealously fed and nurtured its growth and 
improvement in his county. It was years ago that, 
when the president of the board of directors 
(teachers being sent to him to be examined), 
knowing his unfitness, he with others conceived 
and agitated the question not only of teachers be- 
ing examined by a county superintendent, but 
proposed other measures for the improvement of 
the system. He eagerly watched its life and 
growth, and hailed with pleasure the advancement 
and stage of perfection it had attained in his day. 

Politically, in the beginning he was an Old line 
Whig; in the turning of the wheel a stanch Re- 
publican; and was chairman of the tirst committee 



170 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



that met in Washington, to organize the Repub- 
lican party. He was, in 1850, elected associate 
juilge, with Jacob Slagle aH colleague, and was re- 
elected in 1861 with Hubert Dinsniore as colleague. 
It was due to the suggestions and efforts of Slagle 
and himself that the barbarous custom of with- 
holding food from jurors, until their decision was 
given, was done away with; they looked not only 
upon the cruelty, but the desecration of principle 
as well. He was a devoted friend to the soldier 
and his cause, giving aid and comfort when and 
where he could. But the crowning efforts of his 
life was in his sacrifices, counsels anil life work for 
his family. In that relation he lived exalted from 
the unwavering confidence reposed in him by his 
own children. They knew beyond a doubt that 
he in all things lived a life that was above a shadow 
of suspicion. In the dark hours of sorrow and 
affliction he was their Anchor, and when their 
Life boat seemed to be almost engulfed by the 
grim waves of death dashing against it, and though 
tempest-tossed himself, yet he was thestay, strength 
and comfort of his chil hen. He gave to them that 
restful feeling, that, if " Father is at the helm all 
will be well " so far as an earthly hand can do. 
Death came so often, and took from him some 
loved one. His second wife, Margery, died June 2, 
1855, leaving six children. Her youngest child, 
Ard, died October 1, 1856. Soon tin- death-cloudthat 
before had darkened the home of his father, David, 
rose again and settled with sombre gloom over his 
own home, by taking two sons, Thomas and 
Samuel, and daughter, Sarah, to the spirit land, 
just when life was sweetest, leaving only two sur- 
viving children by his second marriage: Hon. 
Brit Hart, who in December, 1IS74, married Miss 
1'riscilla D. Lacock, of Scenery Hill, Washington 
Co., Penu., and who was, in 1884, elected to the 
_ Legislature; and sister Annie E., who, in October, 
1872, married Thomas Ross (they both witli their 
families now reside in Washington, Penn.). Mrs. 
.lane B. Hopkins, of Brownsville, Fayette Co., 
Perm., his third wife, died in March, 1890. In clos- 
ing this sketch of the life of James G. Hart, no more 
fitting tribute can be offered to his memory than 
that "'As the father so the son," a Christian firmly 
adhering to the Calvanistic faith, a man of unblem- 
ished character. Firm and unyielding, though 
not without charity, the promptings of duty al- 
ways found him sure and steadfast, of sound 
judgment ami decision. After a long lingering ill- 
ness, which was borne without a murmur, he closed 
an active and useful life July 5, 1885. 

The war record of the Hart family, who served 
in the war waged against secession and slavery is 
as follows: Two sons of David Hart (2); William, 
who served in an Ohio regiment; Dunning, his 
youngest, who served in the One Hundred and 
Fortieth P. V. I., was wounded at the battle of 



Gettysburg. William's two sous, Emmet and 
Leander, the latter losing his life at Averill's raid. 
Andrew's son, David, of Canonsburg, a member 
of Company A, Ringgold Cavalry, was wounded in 
an engagement at Cedar Springs, Md. James G., 
two sons: Maj. James P. Hart, of Washington, D. 
C. , captain of Company A, Ringgold's Cavalry, 
afterward promoted to major, and John T. Hart, 
member of same company, who died in Cumber- 
land, Md., April 27, 18(54. David Hart, Jr., of 
Savannah, Ohio, was a member of the Twenty 
third Regiment Ohio Volunteers. 



THE SHARP FAMILY. In the year 17.49 
William and Mary Sharp, of Scotch Irish 
ancestry, left their native land to seek a 
home in the New World. They first located 
in the State of South Carolina, where their 
son Isaac was born April 13, 1750, and the family 
afterward moved to Virginia. 

Isaac Sharp remained with his parents until 
after attaining his majority, and then left the pa- 
ternal roof, coming to Greene county, PeDn. He 
located near Waynesburgh, following surveying 
and school teaching. In those days wild hogs, 
deer, turkeys and bears roamed the forests; and 
ninny times the young pioneer stealthily crept past 
bruin, who was enjoying a feast of young pork, 
fearing that he might relish a human morsel as 
dessert. About the year 1777 he was united in 
marriage with Mary Woolverton, who was born 
April 22, 1761, daughter of John and Abigail 
Woolverton. In the year he was married Isaac 
Sharp took the following oath: " I do hereby cer- 
tify that Isaac Sharp hath taken and subscribed 
the oath or affirmation of allegiance and fidelity, as 
directed by an Act of General Assembly, intituled: 
'An Act to oblige the free male inhabitants of this 
State, above a certain age, to give assurance of al 
legiance to the same, and for other purposes.' 
Witness my hand and seal this 13th day of Sep- 
tember, 1777. John Morrow.'' The following let- 
ter, written in 1776, is yet preserved as a souvenir: 

My dear and affectionate sen, I am glad to inform 
yen we ure in good health at present, blessed lie God for 
His unspeakable layers. Hoping with all sincerity and 
ardent affection, you are in the same healthful condition. 
I received a letter from you this day dated October 2Ti 
(eleven months after), which gave me much satisfaction 
te hear of your bodily health, and it the more added to my 
joy to hear that you are still teaching school. I >ear child, 
consider well, that while you are employed for your 
bodily support, see that your mind be employed for the 
welfare of your soul ;f or if we should gain the whole world, 
and lose our souls, what advantageth it us? Neither be ye 
conformed to this world, hut lie ye transformed bj the 
renewing of your minds, that you may kmrw what is the 
will of God concerning yen. Abstain from all evil com- 
pany, lest you he partakers of their evil deeds. Seek lirst 
i he kingdom of (led and His righteousness, and all other 
things shall beadded unto you Keep yourself, mj dear 



WASHINGTON COI'STY. 



171 



child, unspotted from the world. You know my advice 
tn you when we last parted, concerning these associa- 
tions, which I expect you to keep in obedience to me, us 
you may readily conclude, I would in no wise advise you 
to your hurt. VVe are talking of goingto South Carolina 
again next spring. John's son John, who lives there was 
here, but I hardly think we will go. Be sure to mis^ no 
opportunity of writing to me. 1 would be glad to see 
you, and having nothing more to write, I remain your 
affectionate mother. 

Isaac and Mary (Woolverton) Sharp settled on 
McNarlin's run, about three miles northwest of 
Waynesburgb, Penn., where seven sons and six 
daughters were born to them: John, born in 1779; 
Thomas, born in 1781; Abigail (Mrs. John Knight), 
born in 1783; Mary (wife of William Sharon), 
born in 1786; Rachel (married to David Cougar), 
born in 1788; William, born in 1790; Isaac, born 
in 1702; Rebecca (wife of Ephraim Coruin), born 
in 1794; Margaret (Mrs. Thomas Largely), born in 
1796; Darby Woolverton (deceased in 1807), born 
in 1798; Zachariah, born in 1800; Bittia (Mrs. 
Samuel Smith), born in 1802; andManaen, born in 
1805. | The above dates are taken from a Bible 
published in 1793, the property of the father of 
these children.] Isaac Sharp was a man of modi 
um size, fair complexion and thin features. He was 
a pioneer school teacher by profession, being known 
throughout the country as "Old Master Sharp." 
Much of his life was spent in surveying, behaving 
been among the first to own the necessary instru 
ments and follow that vocation in Washington 
county. In his chosen work he bad a rare op- 
portunity to judge of the value of vacant lands, 
and wealth was within bis grasp had he but seized 
it in time. He entered into an agreement with 
one Timothy Ross to make surveys, Ross promising 
to furnish the money to secure the patents. Their 
united efforts gave fair promise of success, but 
just at the critical point Mr. Sharp unfortunately 
yielded to an old weakness, and became a victim to 
the use of strong drink. This proved fatal to 
their enterprise, for, although in the main a tem- 
perate man, lie was addicted to a periodical habit, 
and while in the power of its grasp another made 
use of his lost opportunity. Although weak in this 
respect, Isaac Sharp was an intelligent man, and 
the affection of his children is evident from the 
fact that each of those who have had sons of their 
own have named oue in memory of their father. 
He died in October, 1830, and was buried in the 
old cemetery at Waynesburgb, by the side of his 
wife, who had preceded him August 20, 1822, in 
her sixty-first year. 

Of the sons born to Isaac and Mary Sharp, as 
above mentioned, the following is a brief record: 
John and his wife (Elizabeth) passed their lives in 
Ohio; Thomas and bis wife (Unity) were early set- 
tlers of Ohio, where they reared a large family 
(be was justice of the peace); William and Ruth 
moved West; Isaac was married to Eliza Nailor, 



who bore him seven children, namely: John, 
William, Isaac H , Rebecca, Mary J., Rachel and 
Maria (the parents resided in Millsborough, Penn. , 
where the father followed the hatter's trade; he 
was a sound logician, and in politics a Democrat); 
Manaen was a tanner by trade, and passed his life 
in Indiana (one of his children was drowned in a 
tan vat); he died at the age of thirty years. 

Zachariah Sharp, the fourth son of Isaac and 
Mary (Woolverton) Sharp, was born near Waynes 
burgh, Greene Co. , Penn. When eighteen years of 
age he became an apprentice to oue William Hart 
ford, a blacksmith of Fredericktown, Washington 
Co., Penn., serving his full time, and afterward 
working a few months for wages. After leaving 
his employer the young man began business for 
himself and erected a small shop near Curry's run, 
Carter's creek. A few months later he was 
wedded to Elizabeth, only daughter of Jacob and 
Elizabeth Yoder, residents of Fredericktown. The 
parents were Germans, and called themselves 
Pennsylvania Dutch. The father was a skilled 
potter. Mr. and Mrs. Sharp resided on Carter's 
creek about four years after their marriage, then 
moved to the village of Amity, Penn., where he 
followed his trade for many years with untiring 
industry, also teaching many young men in the 
trade. In those days everything had to be made 
in a slow and laborious fashion, the sickle and 
broad hoe being pounded out in the same way as 
the tiniest nail. In those days a person who 
brought a young horse to be shod for the first 
time was expected to meet his social obligations in 
a rather peculiar but most suggestive manner. A 
quart bottle of whisky, called the "colt's tail," 
was brought by the owner of the animal, and 
when the horse was shod the men were " switched 
in the face " by their favorite beverage — a pioneer 
observance of the modern "treating" custom now 
in vogue among different social circles. Zachariah 
Sharp finally abandoned the blacksmith's trade and 
became one of the leading country merchants of 
the community, afterward adding a small farm 
and several tenant houses to his store. Business 
prospered for a time, but the constant confinement 
was more than he could endure, and he began to 
long for a change. In 1855 certain mill property 
depreciated in value and Mr. Sharp incurred a 
heavy expense in its purchase. He attempted to 
repair and manage the old mill, but times were 
hard, money was scarce and interest was high, and 
soon, in this unfortunate experiment, the savings 
of many years had vanished like a mist before the 
sun. He was a total abstainer, positive in opinions, 
and usually following his own counsel. In politics 
he was a Whig, an ardent advocate of protective 
tariff and a warm admirer of Henry Clay, also fa- 
voring the United States Bank. Although never as 
piling to political honors, he was nominally the 



172 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



postmaster for many years, the actual incumbenl 
being a maiden lady, to whom he gave all the pro 
ceeds. He was an admirer of Jack Downing' s 
letters, was fond of reading (owning a good library), 
and. like his relations, was a great hunter and a 
very skillful marksman. In religiou he worshiped 
with the Presbyterian denomination, but was very 
liberal in his views. After an illness of but three 
days' duration he was called to rest from the la- 
bors of a long and busy life on September 1'.', 
1874, in his seventy-fourth year. Mrs. Sharp was 
a kind and industrious companion, an affectionate 
arid true mother, a zealous and devoted Christian. 
Possessing a cheerful, trusting disposition, that 
person was vile indeed for whom she could find no 
word of praise. After months of severe pain, 
caused by a fall, she passed over the river October 
14, 1881, in her seventy-eighth year. Of the chil- 
dren of this family, the following is a brief record: 

Mary Ann waB born in June, 1N24, near Car- 
ters creek, Penn., aud remained at home until 
the others had all left the paternal roof. She was 
then married to James Hughes, of Amity, this 
county, who died some years ago, and the widow 
is now residing near Washington borough with 
her brother Manaen. She has been a very active 
member of the Presbyterian Church for many years, 
and is now sixty-nine years of age. 

William Woolverton Sharp was born January 16, 
1826, in the old village in this county, where lie 
grew to manhood. He was a fair scholar, fond 
of reading, and his penmanship was remarkably 
clear ami graceful. He taught school during the 
winter months, attending college in the summer 
season, and reading medicine with Dr. Matthew 
Clark. In 1847 he was married to a Miss Margaret 
Sharp, of Washington county (who was uo relation 
to his family). He died several years ago, and 
the obituary, written by his friend and comrade, 
James P. Sayer, reads thus: 

Dr. Sharp occupied a high position in his profession, 
his apt mechanical ability enabling him to perform diffi- 
cnlt surgical operations with ease. In the sick room he 
was prompt and careful. In September, ist>:2, when the 
war cloud was darkest, he was commissioned as assistant 
surgeon of the One Hundred and Fortieth P. V. I. In 
March, L864, lie was promoted to surgeon of the 
Eighteenth Regiment, Pennsylvania Cavalry, with the 
rank <>l major. His arduous duties in the campaigns of 
|si;i 65 told rapidly on his health and physical strength. 
lie resigned his commission in March, 1865, and Bought 
the quiet of home. Partially recovering his health, he 
resumed the practice of medicine at Amity, this county, 
where he continued to reside until his death. During 
tin' year 1858 the Doctor made a public profession of his 

faith in Christ, and united with the people of God. His 

special work was in the Sunday scl Land his natural 

abilitj to illustrate the lesson with blackboard exercises 
was truly wonderful. We predict the impressions made 
upon youthful minds by his crayon work will outlast the 
argumentative and impassioned appeals id' those who 

tailed to use the simpler methods that are -t effective. 

In his business as well as in his professional and religious 



work, he was a man of method, lie did nothing carelessly, 
and in his work there was no room for rubbish. Henever 
fully recovered his health alter bis return from the army, 
and during the winter of 1882 83 he contracted a heavj 
cold, which settled on his lungs. No man ever made a 
more methodical and determined resistance to disease 
than did he during the spring and early part of summer. 
fighting it inch by inch with Christian fortitude, lie 
left no remedy untried to regain his strength, yet when 
he knew further resistance was futile, he net death only 
as a true ( thristian can. confident of his trust in God, and 
having met he found rest, leaving bright testimony for 
the encouragement of those whom he loved. In tin- quiet 
of the closing hours of Sabbath, August 5, lss:i, his com- 
rades with whom he had mingled in war ami in peace, in 
the presence of the bereaved family and friends, laid him 
to rest in the old churchyard, where his body shall rest 
until in response to his dying invitation, the loved ones 
shall meet him in the morning in the presence of Cod. 

He left a wife and seven children, namely: 
George W , Mary E., Jacob R , William H. P., 
James B., Emma B. and Isabel. 

Jacob Yoder Sharp, son of Zachariah and Eliz- 
abeth (Yoder) Sharp, was born July 16, 1828, on 
the old homestead, this county. Although named 
for his maternal grandfather, he resembled his 
grandfather Sharp in personal appearance, having 
a fair complexion and slender form. He was a 
diligent student and was ranked with older pupils, 
but his strength was too frail to support the brill- 
iant mind, and brain fever resulted from too in- 
tense application. He died in his fourteenth 
year, in 1842, leaving the memory of a dutiful, af- 
! fectionate son, and a pure-hearted youth, of whom 
! no praise could be truthfully termed an exagger- 
ation. 

Isaac Sharp (namesake of his grandfather, who 
died sooii after the birth of this grandchild) was 
born December 16, 1830, in Amity, Amwell town- 
ship, this county. An amusing anecdote is told 
of his birthplace, and transpired at the time of his 
birth: A Mr. Dow was lying next to the roof in a 
certain house of Amity, just recovering from the 
effects of an oversupply of intoxicating beverages. 
Suddenly a gust of wind lifted the roof from above 
him, when the inebriated gentleman was heard to 
observe: "That's right, good Lord, scourge 
Amity but save Dow, he's only a boarder." Years 
afterward, while visiting in Charleston, 111. , 
Isaac Sharp met a Mrs. Wright who had known 
him in infancy. She described him at that period 
of existence as a " horribly ugly baby,'' but com 
plimented him on having at last become a more 
comely specimen of humanity. In boyhood he 
was bashful among older people, hut his mother 
used to say that Isaac was the most troublesome 
of all her mischievous children. In early life ho 
learned the tanner's trade, following that business 
in Amity, Penn. On March 5, 1851, he was mar- 
ried to Lavina (daughter of Abner and Mary Bane), 
who bore him three children: Mary Flora (mat 
ried to James P. Sayer), Lindley Bane (married 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



173 



t<> Grace Walters) and Lizzie Ann (deceased at the 
age of six months). 

In August, 1862, Isaac Sharp enlisted as a vol- 
unteer in Company D, One Hundred and Fortieth 
P. V. I. The first duty of this regiment was to 
guard the North Central Railroad wist of Balti 
more, and in December, 18(32, it was ordered to 
join the army of the Potomac. On December 20 
they arrived at Falmouth, just too late to partici- 
pate in the battle of Frederieksburgh. From the 
time of his enlistment until the latter part of 
March, 1863, Isaac Sharp never missed a roll call 
or failed in duty, though often detailed for picket 
duty (a most arduous task in freezing weather). In 
March he had a severe attack of erysipelas, which 
disabled him until May 1, when he shouldered his 
traps and joined in the march to Chaucellorsville. 
Wearied ami worn, they arrived on the field at 
9 r. m., on the evening of the third day of the 
month, and the next morning they took an ad- 
vanced position facing toward Fredericksburg. At 
this point ;i dispute arose between the leading gen- 
erals. Hooker had given repeated orders to Couch 
to fall back, but the advantages of the position 
were so apparent that Hancock and Warren both 
advised Couch to stand his ground. Warren went 
to Hookor and explained the matter, which result- 
ed in an order issued at 2 p. M. for Couch to hold 
the position till 5 o'clock. But Couch had begun 
his retreat, and said: "Tell Gen. Hooker he is 
too late, the enemy is now on my right and rear, 
and I am in full retreat." The regiment moved to 
a position to the left of the former place, and there 
passed the night in range of the enemy's batteries. 
The Confederates kept up a constant fire, but the 
Unionists were on too high ground, and before an 
attack could be made had again moved. While 
making coffee at the Chancellor House, they were 
ordered out on double quick to repel an attack 
made where the Wilderness road turns down the 
hill. After this they were moved to the left brow 
of the hill, facing the river, and began throwing up 
trenches. Meantime a terrible artillery engage- 
ment was being waged, of which the following is 
an accurate description given by Capt. C. L, Lin 
ton, commanding: 

What wild eyes and blanched faces there were when 
tin' shells and solid shot came in from the right and rear 
of us! Orders coming to "about face, left In front," we 
advanced to the plank road in rear of the Chancellor 
House to sunport a battery. The. Fifth Maine had opened 
fire, to which the enemy replied so rapidly and accurately 
that almost all the horses and men were killed or wounded. 
Only two of the artillerists remained at their posts. While 
there the Chancellor House was seen to be on fire, a detail 
from Company F was made to remove the wounded there- 
from. All this time the shot and shell were coming so 
thick and fast that it seemed one could not take his nose 
from the dirt lest he would have his head blown off. A 
call for volunteers was made to save the guns of the 
Fifth Maine battery. Upon looking back, whom should 
we see but our division and brigade commanders, Gen. 



\V. s. Hancock and Gen. Nelson A. Miles. A moment 
later came our corps commander, hat in hand, and hair 
streaming in the breeze. The call for volunteers was re 
sponded to by a rush from Company I), and a few from 
one or two other companies, through the concentrated 
lire of thirty gains, into a storm of shol and shell, in the 
face of Jackson's men infused with victory, and saved 
every gun. Myself and Corporal I. Sharp in the rush, 
both grasped the limber of one of the guns at the same 

time and on either side. With superior effort we succ 1 

ed in raising it a few inches from the ground, when a 
solid shot "i' Bhell passed between us and under the line 
ber. At that instant Sharp gave down, ami 1 thought lie 
was done for, but was rejoiced when Corporal Saver and 
others lay hold to see him straighten up again, lie had 
let down on account of the immense weight we were lift- 
ing. A corporal of the battery procured a rope, and we 
soon had the gun moving from the scene of action. The 
force attached was not sufficient to make last time. Try 

as we did, we Btuck once or twice when running against 

dead horses. 

Not having fully recovered from former sick- 
ness, over exertion brought on disease, and after 
remaining in the regiment a few weeks, Isaac 
Sharp was sent to the general hospitals at Colum- 
bia, D. C, Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia and Pitts 
burgh. On June 1, 1864, he was discharged from 
the service, on account of physical disability. On 
his return home he found the tannery closed, and 
unable to engage in physical labor followed mer- 
cantile life, removing in 1871 to Washington bor- 
ough, Penn., where he is yet living surrounded by 
numerous friends. His character is best illus- 
trated by the history of his life, and his aspira 
tions are fitly expressed in his own words: ''My 
life may not have been entirely void of some good. 
Be that as it may, it is of small importance to me, 
if at last my omissions and commissions are can- 
celled and a clear title to the mansious of glory 
given me.'' 

Cephas Dodd Sharp, son of Zachariah and 
Elizabeth (Yoder) Sharp, was born June 21, 1834, 
in the old stone house at Amity, this county. 
When a young man he came to Washington, Penn., 
working as a clerk until the war opened, when, 
fired with patriotic ardor, he bade farewell to his 
affianced and laid aside the vocations of peace for 
the panoply of war. He was among the first to 
volunteer for the three months' service, and en- 
listed in Company E (commanded by N. Magiffin). 
For a time they were employed in guarding rail- 
roads, and then he returned home with zeal damp- 
ened by the harsh experiences of field life. But 
he possessed the true spirit of a warrior, and in 
1862, with several friends, once more volunteered 
his services. This time he enlisted in Company 
D, One Hundred and Fortieth P. V. I. , and par- 
ticipated in the engagements of that regiment 
until his death. He was in the battle of Chan- 
cellorsville, and was one of the martyrs who fell at 
bloody Gettysburg. On July 2, 1863, he joined 
in that desperate charge across the wheat fields 
which cost so many lives. A bullet passed 



174 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



through both of his thighs, ami at the same in- 
stant another lodged in one of his knees, thelatter 
[•roving fatal. He fell and soon after received 
another terrible shot which paralyzed him for a 
time. Regaining consciousness, he supposed a 
hall had passed through his breast, lint found a 
tninie-ball deeply imbedded in the pocket Bible 
which wascarried in his breast pocket. Night threw 
her mantle over the bloody tragedy as the dying sol 
dier lay where he fell among the others. Listening, 
he heard the familiar voice of Bedan Beboiit in 
prayer. He spoke, and they succeeded in dragging 
their bodies together. Isaac Lacock and Charles 
Cunningham, also wounded, heard the conversa- 
tion and joined the group. Slowly, painfully, the 
night passed on, and morning found them helpless 
in the hands of the enemy. They hired rebel sol- 
diers to carry them to a place of greater security, 
and at midnight on July 5, were found in a Mr. 
Cunningham's barnyard. Lacock and Cunning 
ham survived, and Bebout and Cephas were soon 
freed from pain. The last words uttered by 
Cephas were: "Oh, God, cut me loose, let me go." 
The Bible and bullets are kept as sacred relics of 
that terrible night by his brother Manaen Sharp. 

Manaen Sharp was born October 22, 1837, in 
Amity, this county, and in childhood was an inde- 
pendent, rather self willed boy, but very careless 
in dress. One suspender was as good as two in 
his estimation, misplaced buttons were forgotten, 
and his boots were soon run down at the heel — in 
short, he was an original character. He was so 
fond of hunting that his older brothers gave him 
the nickname of ' Nimrod." On one occasion he 
caught a live rabbit, and notifying the boys to 
bring their dogs, prepared to have an exciting 
chase. Each boy held a dog, while Manaen with 
his rabbit advanced some distance, then freeing 
the animal, gave chase, the other boys and dogs" 
following with pandemoniac yells and whoops, and 
the chase was on. It was brought, to a speedy aud 
unexpected terminus — a large bulldog that had 
never seen a rabbit joined in the chase, but he was 
in pursuit of higher game, and catching the young 
leader by the leg, gave him a lasting souvenir of 
that rabbit chase, which the "Squire" carries to 
the present day. The official title of " squire " 
was bestowed upon him during an election, when 
the boys held a juvenile "congress" in a tailor 
shop, and a journeyman tailor coming in just as 
the returns were made out, published the story. 

On April 8, 1858, Manaen Sharp was united in 
marriage with Sarah A. Bebout, who has borne him 
three children: James N. (married to Sarah Ellen 
Dagg), Ada (Mrs. George McCollum) and Annie 
(at home). After his marriage Mr. Sharp farmed 
for a time, and in 1861 enlisted in Company B 
(M. Zollars, Capt.), Eighty Fifth P. V. I., Joshua 



B. Howell, commanding. During the winter of 
1861—62 the regiment was quartered at Fort Good 
Hope, Washington, D. C. He took part in the 
siege of Yorktown, and the battle of Williamsburgh, 
and in September, 18G2, was discharged at Phila- 
delphia on account of disability. Returning home 
he entered mercantile life, carrying on business 
successively in Amity, Beallsville.Amity and Wash- 
ington. He has prospered in business life, having 
overcome the careless habits of boyhood, and is 
now carrying on a furniture establishment in 
Washington, Penn., with his son James N. , as 
junior partner. In 1856 Manaen Sharp united 
with the M. P. Church, of Amity, Penn., with 
which liis family is also connected. He is a mem 
ber of the G. A. R., and in politics was formerly 
a Republican, but is now voting the Prohibition 
ticket, aud has been nominated for Assembly, also 
as county treasurer. He owns a handsome brick 
dwelling, equipped with all modern improvements, 
situated just north of Washington borough. 

Elizabeth Jane Sharp, daughter of Zachariah 
and Elizabeth (Yoder) Sharp, was born in 1840, 
in Amity, this county. In early womanhood she 
became the bride of James A. Bebout. Her hus- 
band enlisted in Company D, One Hundred and 
Fortieth P. V. I., aud was killed July 2, 1863, at 
Gettysburg, in the charge across the wheat field, 
and no one knows his burial place. The heart- 
broken widow toiled for herself and two little ones 
until they were old enough to care for themselves, 
when her strength gave way, the needle fell from 
the nerveless hands, aud she died a victim of con- 
sumption. She was a true Christian, modest and 
retiring in disposition, aud deeply mourned by her 
friends. 

Nancy Maria Sharp, daughter of Zachariah and 
Elizabeth (Yoder) Sharp, was born in January, 
1843, and in early life gave her hand and heart to 
William Kelley, the village blacksmith. He fol- 
lowed his trade in Amity for several years after their 
marriage, then moved to a small farm situated on 
the line between Washington and Greene counties. 
They have had eight children. 

Zachariah D., youngest son of Zachariah aud 
Elizabeth (Yoder) Sharp, was born April 1 1. 1845, 
in Amity, this county. In January, 1872, he was 
married to Paulina Gaus, who has borne him two 
daughters: Lillian and Elizabeth. After his mar 
riage Mr. Sharp traded in country produce for 
some years, then moved to Washington, Penn., and 
engaged in the lumber business, also running a 
planing-mill. In religion he is a member of the 
Presbyterian Church, of which he was formerly an 
elder, and in politics is a supporter of the prin- 
ciples advocated by the Prohibition party. In 
personal appearance he is of a dark complexion 
and a slender form. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



175 



DR. JOHN B. DONALDSON, a physician 
I of Caaonsburg, is a descendant of David 
' Donaldson (I), who lived in County An- 
trim, Ireland (near Castle O'Neil), until 
June 6, 1771, when, with his son David (II), he 
sailed for America, ;iud settled in Cecil county, 
Md. In 1792 David (II) moved to Washington 
county, Peun., where the family has since re- 
sided. He was the father of eleven children — 
eight girls and three boys — Robert, David (III) 
and William. The latter moved to Allegheny 
county, Penn., and died there in 1803. He had 
three sous: Hsnry, William and David (IV), the 
latter of whom was the father of the subject of this 
sketch. 

David Donaldson was born in Allegheny county, 
Penn., and coming to Washington county, attended 
Jefferson College, Canonsburg, graduating in 
1845. He began to practice his profession in 
West Virginia, and then moved to Allegheny 
county. He was married to Ellen, daughter of 
John Boyce, who died in 1884, aged seventy-live 
years. To David and Ellen Donaldson five chil 
dren were bora, viz.: John B. , Auuie M., Ulysses, 
Robert and Harry. After their marriage, the 
parents resided in Allegheny, thence moving to 
Bridgeville, where the father died of heart disease 
November 20, 1883, while in a buggy, on his way 
to visit a patient. The wife and mother had died 
in 1872 of typhoid fever. The father was an 
active Republican in politics; in church matters he 
and his wife were Presbyterians. 

Dr. John B. Donaldson was born in August, 
1848, in Marshall county, W. Va. His early edu- 
cation was obtained in the common schools, and 
he afterward attended the old Bethel Academy in 
Allegheny county. He then read medicine with 
his father for some time, and in 1872 graduated 
from the Cleveland Medical College. He com- 
menced practicing at Pittsburgh, Allegheny county, 
where he remained for one year, then moved to 
Bridgeville, and in 1878 settled in Canonsburg, 
this county, where he has continued to practice his 
profession, giving special attention to diseases of 
the throat and nose. On October 31, 1872, he mar- 
ried Elizabeth Foster, daughter of Walter Foster, of 
Pittsburgh, Penn., the ceremony taking place in 
Bridgeville, where the bride's father then lived. 
The following children have been born to their 
union: 

Walter Foster, Nellie Boyce, Maria S., John 
Paul, Samuel Foster and David Halsey (David 
VI). In politics Dr. Donaldson is a Republican; 
in 1888 he was elected to the State Legislature, 
and has also served in various minor offices. He 
is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and in 
religious faith is a member of the Presbyterian 
Church. 



If If ON. JAMES MURRAY CLARK, who has 
r- j been a lifelong resident of Washington 
county, was the only issue of David and 
J) — Eliza J. Clark, and was born under the 
v parental roof in Hopewell township, March 

7, 1828. When he was but an infant, his father 
died, and from about thai time until 1841 lie lived 
in Cross Creek vdlage. Thereafter, until the fall 
of 1887, his domicile was id Homeside, near the 
village of Candor. For five years his home has 
been in Canonsburg. 

On January 28, 1851, he was married to Miss 
Margaret A. Clark, and of their union there are 
four children: Kate E. Clark, wife of Rev. Samuel 
E. Elliott, D.D. ; Romaine Pauline Clark; Murray 
S. Clark, and William Baird Clark. M. D. 

The first representative of the family in America 
was his paternal and maternal great grandfather, 
James Clark, a native of Ireland, who with a 
brother Thomas landed in the early part of the 
eighteenth century. Thomas settled in the South. 
James married Nancy Reed, of Lancaster county, 
and settled on land near the site of Harrisburg; 
thence he moved to " Clark's Fancy," which em- 
braced the ground whereon Upper Strasburg was 
built, near Clark's Gap, Cumberland county. Sub- 
sequently he acquired a farm near Mercersburg, 
wheron he died, leaving issue: David, married to 
Hannah Baird; Thomas, to Jane Caldwell ; John, to 

McDowell; Rebecca to John Taggart ; Mary, to 

Jeremiah Rankin; James, to Mary Murray; Nancy, 
to David Humphrey; a daughter, to Joseph Smith, 
aud a daughter, to David Elder. The father of 
this family, about the year 1789, bought two farms 
in Washington county, one, in what is Canton 
township, now owned by Samuel K. Weirich, and 
the other in Robinson township, whereon his sons 
John and Thomas in turn settled. 

David Clark was born February 4, 1755, in Cum 
berland (now Franklin) county. His wife, Hannah 
(Baird), was of the vicinity of Carlisle. Their 
children were all born at the Clark homestead in 
Canton township, and were as follows: David, mar- 
ried to Eliza Johnston Clark; Esther, married to 
Rev. Joseph Stockton; James, to Jane Henderson; 
Nancy, to David Larimer; Betsy, to Daniel Hous- 
ton; Mary, to Paul Anderson, and Jane and Will- 
iam, who died in tender years. The father of 
these died in Hopewell township June 2, 1821, and 
was interred in the cemetery of North Buffalo As- 
sociate Presbyterian Church, whereof he was a 
ruling elder. 

His son David, father of the subject proper 
of this article, was born February 28, 1800. On 
April 1, 1827, he married Eliza Johnston Clark, a 
daughter of James and Mary (Murray) Clark, of 
Franklin county. David died in Hopewell town 
ship November 30, 1828. His widow was married 



76 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



November 1. 1SH. to William Clark, of Robinson 
township. She died November 7, 1842, and Jan- 
uary HI, I SSI, her husband was laid by her side in 
the cemetery of Raccoon church. 



JESSE V SCOTT. M. D., one of the leading 
and most successful physicians in Washing- 
1 ton county, is a native of the same, having 
been born November 13, 1848, in Fallowfteld 
township. His paternal great-grandfather 
entered the American army at the age of seven- 
teen and served throughout the Revolutionary war. 
He was at, Valley Forge during the, memorable ter- 
rible winter in that struggle. All the members of 
his father's family, excepting himself, were killed 
by Indians immediately before he joined the army. 
Grandfather Scott was a native of America, and 
died in Rush county, Indiana. 

Joseph A. Scott, father of Dr. Scott, was born 
in Washington county, Penn., October 6, 1806, and 
his entire life was devoted to agricultural pursuits. 
In 1835 he went to Peoria, III., and there married 
.Miss Eliza Sheplar, a native of Washington county, 
Penn., whom he brought back to his Eastern home 
ou horseback, and they settled on a farm in Fal 
lowtield township, this county, which was owned 
by her father. They were the parents of nine 
children, as follows: two that died in infancy un- 
named; Peoria and James Addison, both of whom 
died in youth; Joseph Clark, who was killed Octo 
ber 31, 1881, at the age of twenty-six by a tree 
falling on him while riding in a wagon along with 
two other young men; Henry S. , at Bentleyville; 
Smith F.. at Beallsville; Margaret M., wife of W. 
H. Miller, of Washington; and Dr. Jesse Y. The 
father died February 17, 1881, at the age of 
seventy five years; the mother May 15, 1892, aged 
seventy-seven years. 

Dr. Scott received a thorough rudimentary train 
ing at the common schools of his native township, 
which was supplemented by a course in the South- 
western State Normal School at California. In 
1870 he commenced reading medicine with Dr. J. 
H. Leyda, of Bentleyville. later attending the Uni- 
versity of Pennsylvania, at Philadelphia, where he 
graduated with honorable mention in 1875. He 
then commenced the practice of his profession. 
He practiced two years in Centreville (this county); 
at Pittsburgh, one year; at Bentleyville, eleven 
years, and at Washington, now nearlv four years. 
On June 16, 1881, Dr. Scott married" Ella S. Mc- 
Lean, of Beallsville, daughter of ex-County Com 
missioner Henry B. McLean. He and his wife 
are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian 
Church. He is a member of the Improved Order 
of Heptasophs; politically he is a Republican. 



JOSEPH CLARKE, SR., was born in 1738, in 
I Chester county, Penn., and spent his early 
I life there, engaged in farming. About 1780 
he was married to Miss Elizabeth Lynn, and 
soon afterward the young couple located on 
Government land three miles southwest of the 
present site of Washington, Penn., on land now 
owned by Cornelius Clarke, a grandson. This is 
said to have been the second farm located south- 
west of Fort Catfish, and perhaps the first within 
the present limits of South Franklin township. 
The whole country was a dense forest, and here 
they erected their log cabin and established a home. 
The woods were teeming with wild animals, some 
of them dangerous to encounter; and a few friendly 
Indians still claimed the hunting grounds. Occa- 
sionally traveling bands of hostile Indians would 
frighten them, and on several occasions they were 
compelled to take flight on horseback during the 
night to find shelter in Fort Catfish, which had been 
erected for the protection of the early settlers. 
Only men of nerve and daring could meet the re- 
quirements of settling in the forest. On one occa- 
sion, Mr. Clarke and a neighbor were traveling 
on horseback, when on the farm belonging to the 
heirs of J. G. Strean (deceased) their dog attacked 
a large bear. The men had no fire-arms with them, 
but each prepared a heavy club, and in this way 
killed the ferocious animal. Mr. Clarke was a 
Seceder, or member of the Associate Church, and 
took an active part in the church work of the day. 
He died in April, 1829, aged ninety-one years. 
His wife, Mrs. Elizabeth Clarke, died February 4, 
1S57, aged ninety-three years. Their children 
were Elizabeth (Mrs. Archibald Brownlee), Sarah 
(Mrs William Johnston) and Joseph. 

Joseph Clarke, whose portrait is here presented, 
was the son of Joseph and Elizabeth Clarke, and 
was born near Washington, Penn., July 23, 1787. 
His education was limited to the old-time subscrip- 
tion schools during a few months in winter. Yet 
by diligent application he became a fair English 
scholar. Ou April 14, 1814, he was united in mar- 
riage with Catherine, daughter of Daniel Andrews, 
of the s;ime locality, and their children were Ada 
line (Mrs. James McDonald), Mary (Mrs. Elisha 
Ely). Hervey H., Cornelius, Ann Eliza, Catharine 
(Mrs. James Pease, formerly Mrs. Samuel T. 
Brownlee), John G., Sarah J., and Harriett (Mrs. 
John Baird). In 1830 he removed from the home 
farm to the one now occupied by his son John G., 
and there spent the remainder of his useful and 
busy life. Mr. Clarke began life when farming 
was not very remunerative, farm productions being 
very low for want of markets. There was no home 
market, and means of transportation were very 
poor. Mr. Clarke soon engaged in stock raising, 
and drove cattle to the Eastern cities for sale. He 






>••% 





£^ 





WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



170 



afterward extended his business, by buying stock, 
not only in bis own neighborhood, but in the new 
States of Ohio and West Virginia. He also engaged 
for a few years in pork-packing, and placed a te;im 
on the National road to transport his products to 
Baltimore and other eastern, cities. About the 
year 1820 he purchased some imported Saxony - 
Merino sheep, at what was then regarded a most 
extravagant price, and was ridiculed by neighbors 
for his purchase. Iu order to increase funds, he 
sold before leaving home a favorite riding horse 
for $00. One of his neighbors asserted that 
he would not have given the horse for a ten- 
acre field full of such sheep. However the pur- 
chase proved to be the foundation of his fortune. 
He took great interest in the care and improve- 
ment of these sheep, and really made it his life 
work. His flock assisted very much in giving 
Washington county the reputation it had, at that 
time, of producing the best and finest wools grown 
anywhere. 

Mr. Clarke was a leader in his day, taking 
taking an active part in public affairs. In school 
matters he was much interested. Before the adop- 
tion of our present school system it was sometimes 
difficult to establish a subscription school. This 
work often fell to Mr. Clarke, and in some cases 
where difficulties met him, he became responsible 
for the teacher's wages, always maintaining that 
the schools must go on even if it should cost him 
more than his proper proportion. Mr. Clarke be 
came a member of the Presbyterian Church in 
early life, and for a long term of years held the 
position of Ruling Elder in the congregation of 
East Buffalo. Politically he was a Whig, taking 
an active part in the politics of his section. He 
was industrious and enterprising, and fortune 
smiled on his labors. He accumulated considera 
ble property, and at the time of his death was 
owner of over one thousand acres of land in his 
immediate neighborhood. He died January 27, 
1856, aged sixty nine years. Mrs. Catherine 
Clarke died September 15, 1878, aged eighty-four 
year's. 

John G. Clarke, a prominent farmer of South 
Franklin township, is the third sou of Joseph 
Clarke, whose portrait, is here presented. He was 
born January 24, 1829, near Washington, Penn. , 
on the farm patented by his grandfather, Joseph 
Clarke, Sr. He received a liberal and solid educa 
tion at the district schools of the neighborhood, 
and at Washington and Jefferson College. On 
May 20, 1853, Mr. Clarke married Sarah H., 
daughter of Samuel Clokey, Esq., of Clokeyville, 
Washington Co., Penn., and soon after settled on 
the beautiful farm, where they now reside. When 
a young man he took an active part in the forma 
tion of the new township of Franklin, was chosen 



a school director at the first election, and assisted 
in re-districting the new township. Being an ar- 
dent friend of public schools, he was continued in 
the board from year to year, and served as secre 
tary for a long term of years. Soon after the in 
corporation of the Upper Ten Mile Plank Road 
Company, he was elected to membership in the 
board of managers, and in 1872 was elected presi- 
dent of the board, and has continued in that posi- 
tion ever since, a period of over twenty years. Mr. 
Clarke is an extensive grower of fine wool, and has 
given much attention to the improvement of his 
flocks. He has become known as an advocate of 
tariff on wool, and has published several news 
paper articles on that question. He served as 
president of the Washington County Wool Grow- 
ers' Association for several years, and was twice 
sent to Washington, D. C, to represent the in- 
terests of that association. In 1886 he had the 
honor of making the only farmers' address in de- 
fense of tariff on wool before the Committee on 
Ways and Means. It was extensively published 
in both city and local papers, and was freely com- 
mented on, and pronounced by all an able presen- 
tation of the case. In politics Mr. Clarke is a 
Republican; having been born and brought up in 
the Whig party, and holding very decided anti 
slavery views, he naturally fell in with the Repub 
licans al the formation of the party. In 1880 be 
was nominated for a seat in the State Legislature, 
and elected by a majority in advance of the ticket. 
In the House he soon became kuown as an active, 
attentive member, making it a matter of conscience 
to attend promptly to all business coming before 
that body. Being a farmer, he took special in 
terest in all bills in which farmers were interested. 
He was appointed on the Agricultural Committee, 
and gave his influence in favor of the Bill to 
Equalize Taxation; the Bill for the Improvement 
of the Public Roads; the Bill for the Increase 
of State Appropriation to the Public Schools; 
and against the repeal of the Oleomargerine 
law. 

Mr. Clarke is an ardent churchman, and he and 
his family are members of the United Presbyterian 
Congregation, of Washington, Penn. He was 
elected to the office of ruling elder in the congre 
gation of East Buffalo when but twenty six years 
of age, and again to the same position in the con- 
gregation of Washington, Penn., in 1864, and has 
acceptably filled the position ever since. He is 
the father of ten children — seven sons and three 
daughters. He has lived a very busy life, and 
while giving his principal care and attention to his 
family and his farm, he has still evinced a deep 
interest in public enterprises, and is ever found in 
the front ranks of Washington county's enterprie 
ing and loyal citizens. 






ISO 



WASHING TON COUN T V. 



HjERVEY HINDMAN CLARKE, the oldest 
living representative of the Clarke family 
in Franklin township, is a native of that 
j -* county, having been born November 3, 
r 1820, the eldest sou of Joseph and Catherine 

(Andrews) Clarke. 

His boyhood and youth were passed on the old 
home place, and his education was received in the 
schools of the neighborhood, supplemented by a 
thorough course of training at West AlexanderAcad- 
emy and at Washington College, where he showed 
considerable ability. He was graduated in 1841, 
read law with Hon. T. M. T. McKennan, and was 
admitted to the bar, but did not practice. In 
April, 18t8, he married Margaret L., daughter of 
Archibald Brownlee, of Buffalo township, and he 
and his youthful bride then settled on the farm 
where they yet reside. The names of the children 
born to Mr. and Mrs. Clarke are as follows: Clara 
V. (married to James Ely, and living in Marion 
county, Kans.), Edmund H., J. Addison (both of 
Washington county, Penn.), Frank, living in An- 
derson county, Kans. ), Hervey H., Ella M. (Mrs. 
Henry Rudy), Earnest B. (living in the State of 
Washington); and Ethan (who died at the age of 
four years). 

Mr. and Mrs. Hervey H. Clarke were among the 
charter members of the Second Presbyterian Church 
of Washington, Penn., of which he is an elder and 
has repeatedly served as trustee. Politically he 
was originally a Whig, and since the formation of 
the Republican party he has been an active member 
of the same. He has never sought party prefer- 
ment, and has uniformly declined political honors, 
his time having been assiduously applied to the 
multitudinous duties of the farm, but has served as 
justice of the peace and also tilled the office of school 
director for many years. Mr. Clarke's home place 
consists of 250 acres of prime land largely improved 
by Ids own industry and good management. The 
dwelling, a handsome and commodious brick edifice, 
stands an unimpeachable witness to the cultivated 
taste of the man who built it — Mr. Clarke himself; 
while the yard is adorned with many elegant trees 
planted by his own hand over forty years ago— the 
seal of industry and prosperity being stamped upon 
everything pertaining to the place. 



with an uninviting exterior, the interior being fur 
nished in, a very rude and primitive manner. 
The seats for the scholars consisted of simple 
slabs supported by pegs, the floor being made of 
puncheons, far from being closely jointed. The 
writing desk was a slab resting on pegs which 
were inserted into the wall, and placed so high 
that the younger scholars could barely reach it; 
while the fireplace, located at one end of the 
school room, was of generous and comfortable 
amplitude. 

On October 21, 1851, Mr. Clarke was united in 
marriage with Marjory, daughter of John Wilson, 
and the children born to this union are: Alice, 
Joseph J., Fannie (Mrs. E. Horn). Almeda (Mrs. 
David McNairy), Emma, Catherine (Mrs. James 
Magill), Cornelia and John W. On November 24, 
1S70, Mr. Clarke married, for his second partner in 
life, Eliza Lyons, of Beaver county, Penn. In 
politics Mr. Clarke was origiually a Whig, and 
since the formation of the party has been an active 
Republican. In church connection he was first 
an adherent of the Presbyterian congregation at 
East Buffalo, but on the organization of the Sec 
ond Presbyterian Church be united with it. His 
farm consists of 250 acres of highly cultivated 
land, having thereon many improvements, and the 
present large and comfortable two-story brick 
residence was built iu 1857. "Omnia rim-it 
labor" maybe correctly given as Mr. Clarke's 
motto, for hard work and good management have 
placed him in the front rank of Washington 
county's most prosperous citizens. 



CORNELIUS CLARKE, the second sou of 
Joseph and Catherine (Andrews) Clarke, was 
born in Franklin township. Washington Co. , 
Penn., November 21, 1823. 
His boyhood days and early youth were passed 
in assisting his parents in the improvements of the 
home farm, aud iu attending, during a few months, 
in the winter season, the old fashioned subscrip- 
tion school of the neighborhood. The school-house 
in those days was an old, dilapidated building, 




EV. WILLIAM H. LESTER. If this 
honored gentleman's right to a place among 
the representative men of Washington 
county may not rest upon his birth, it is 
well established by his continuous and use- 
ful life as a pastor of one of our leading Christian 
congregations, and his devotion as a citizen to the 
best interests of the community. His descent is 
from a Puritan ancestry, which, coming from Eng- 
land, settled near Stonington, Conn., in the early 
history of the country. 

David Lester, the grandfather of Dr. Lester, 
belonged to a branch of the family which estab- 
lished themselves at Easthamptou, L. I., about 
the time of the American Revolution. About the 
close of that war he was married to Lois, daughter 
of Deacon David Tallmage, and so became the 
father of ten sons aud four daughters, all of whom 
lived to mature life. 

Richard Lester, the youngest but one of these 
fourteen children, was born in 1796, and in 1817 
was married to Sarah F., daughter of Esther and 
Gordon Havens, of a Welsh family, which as early 
as 1665 settled on Shelter Island, N. Y. In this 



1 1 ■ . 1 SHING TON CO I X TV. 



181 



American generation of the 
represented, live children 



marriage, the fifth 
Havens family was 
crowned it, and of these the youngest but one, was 
William H., the subject of this sketch. His father 
was a farmer by occupation, and for many years a 
member of the Presbyterian Church of Bridge- 
hampton, L. I., prior to his death in 1S79. His 
wife had been called from him by death thirty-six 
years before, when their son, the future minister, 
was but a lad, but the memory of a sainted mother's 
piety and instruction was among the effective in- 
strumentalities which determined the course of his 
life. 

After the usual studies of the common school, a 
year of classical study under his pastor, Rev. 
Amzi Francis, and another at Southampton Acad 
emy, our young student entered Amherst College, 
Massachusetts, in the autumn of I SIT). He was 
graduated from that institution in 1849, after which 
he taught in the academy at Southampton for two 
years, before commencing his theological studies. 
He entered Princeton Seminary in 1851, and was 
there a student until 1854, having been licensed 
to preach in January of that year by the Presby- 
tery of Albany. A visit in the spring following, 
by invitation, to the Church of West Alexander, 
Penn., soon after the resignation of Rev. John 
McCluskey, D. D. , closing a pastorate of twenty- 
six years, resulted in a unanimous call to Mr. Les- 
ter by that church to become its pastor. Accept- 
ing this call, he was ordained and installed by the 
Presbytery of Washington the following October, 
and thus commenced a relation which has contin- 
ued in happiness and usefulness unto this day. In 
the interval between the call and installation, in 
August, 1854, the young minister was married to 
Miss Julia Elizabeth, daughter of Thomas B. and 
Harriet R. Hand, of Bridgehamptou, L. I. The 
bride of twenty four years had been thoroughly 
educated, first in the select school of Mrs. Sopbro 
nia Burnett, and then at Mount Holyoke Seminary 
for three years under the sainted Mary Lyon. 
She, too. rejoices in the memory of a pious an- 
cestry of many generations, running down through 
two and a half centuries on American soil. Her 
father, a Christian and ruling elder, died in 1872, 
her pious mother following in 1888, and side by 
side they sleep in the cemetery at Bridgehamptou, 
waiting the Resurrection. 

The tender conjugal tie dating with the pastoral 
relation, has extended in a parallel line with it 
through thirty eight years of happy home life and 
of mutual support in the work of the Lord. Of 
the three children of this marriage two remain at 
the parental home: Nathaniel Talmage and 
Hadassah Elizabeth, the latter of whom is a gradu- 
ate of Washington Female Seminary. The eldest, 
William Hand Lester, followed his father into the 
ministry, and consecrated his life to the work of a 



foreign missionary. He was graduated from Am 
herst College in 1878, also from Auburn Theolog- 
ical Seminary in 18S2. He was licensed by the 
Presbytery of Cayuga. 1881, and ordained by the 
same in the following year. He then sailed for 
Santiago, Chili, which lias been ever since the 
scene of his missionary labors. The wife, Sarah 
M. Anderson, who accompanied him to the mission 
field, died in July, 1884, leaving an infant who 
bears his name. He was again married in 1887, 
this time to Miss Carrie M. Fields, daughter of the 
late Rev. A. B. Fields, who, together with their 
two children — Sarah and Robert McElery — bright 
ens his home and cooperates in his work. The 
writer of this sketch is quite familiar with the life 
work of Dr. Lester as the pastor of an important 
church, and quite as familiar with the sensitive 
modesty which keeps him from public proclamation 
of what he has done for the Master. He has be- 
hind a record of nearly four decades of wise, earnest 
evangelical efficient service, among a people of in- 
telligent appreciation, with and for whom belabors 
both in and out of the pulpit in unabated strength. 
Coming to them without ministerial experience, at 
a time of division and bitterness incident to the 
agitation of the slavery question ; when the church, 
whose care he assumed — itself divided by the line 
which separated the free from the slave States of 
the Union — was depleted by the formation of a 
rival organization, he was confronted with dis- 
couragements to be overcome only by the utmost 
fidelity, guided by the greatest prudence and 
patient endurance, under the stimulus of a holy 
consecration to Christ. This church like many 
others has suffered largely from emigration. 
Many years ago the drift was to the newly settled 
parts of the West. In later years it has been to 
the large towns and cities. The academy, also, 
which had flourished for many years under his 
predecessor's oversight, had come to a crisis of de- 
pression, and, under the advanced methods, and 
spirit of the times, demanded a different manage 
ment. It is no wonder, therefore, that the first 
year of the pastorate was burdened with the serious 
question of continuance. Bid. this question was 
settled by the Lord, by a gracious outpouring of 
the Spirit upon the church, which united and en- 
couraged the people, and brought seventy Cornells 
to the Lord's table, two of whom became ministers, 
and several ruling elders. Another work of Divine 
power in 1861 added greatly to the membership, 
as well as to the beneficence and praying force of 
the church. Other special ingatherings occurred 
in 1869, 1875 and 1889. But the steady progress 
which comes from the Divine blessing upon thor- 
ough and steady Gospel preaching and faithful 
pastoral work has been a distinctive feature of this 
church in these years. There have not been more 
than two or three communion seasons without ad- 



182 



WASHINi.TO.X COUNTY. 



ditions to the membership. The Sabbath-school, 
prayer meetings, pastoral visitations, and all the 
accustomed agencies have been kept up, and hap- 
py pastoral relations, a united people, and church 
strength have been the fruits. While emigration 
has annually removed families and members in 
considerable numbers to other places and churches, 
the loss has found its compensation in the wide 
diffusion of benefits from the common center. In 
no direction has the influence of this beloved 
pastor been greater than in the introduction of 
young men into the ministry, not only during the 
few years of the academy's continuance after his 
settlement, but ever since, as occasion offered, by 
private instinct ion. Fifteen ministers, including 
two foreign missionaries, have gone forth from the 
pastorate into the work of the Lord, to extend and 
perpetuate its power. 

During all these years Dr. Lester has been re- 
garded by ministerial brethren, and by the 
churches, as one of the active and reliable of the 
members of the Presbytery of Washington, ever 
vigilant and efficient in the management of eccle- 
siastical affairs. One element operating toward 
all these happy results deserves special mention. 
It is the work of a devoted wife. Mrs. Lester, 
ever active in all the duties of her sphere, until 
failing health made her a confirmed invalid, has 
since, in the seclusion of her home, by her polished 
and consecrated pen wielded an effective influence 
through the churches of theWashiugtou Presbytery. 
She was one of the organizers of the Presbyterian 
Female Foreign Missionary Society, and has 
through years of its effective work been its faith- 
ful corresponding secretary. She has each year 
written to every mission helped by the Society, and 
from the return letters made her report, which has 
been one of the enjoyable features of the annual 
meeting. 

The aim aud life-work of this couple has been 
to promote the spiritual interests of. the church 
and the advancement of Christ's cause. 

[From the peo of Rev. J. I. Brownson, I). D. 



fPy BV. JOHN S. MARQUIS, D. D. The fam- 

JW?' ily of which this gentleman is a worthy 

I v^ representative is one of the oldest of Cross 

Jj i Creek township. They are descendants of 

French Huguenots, who fled from France 

on account of religious persecutions, and settled in 

Ireland. 

In 1720 William Marquis and Margaret, his 
wife, together with their son Thomas and daugh 
ter Mary, emigrated to this country from Ireland, 
and settled in Frederick county, Va. . near to Win- 
chester. It is believed that some of the children 
of this family remained in Ireland. Some years 
after their parents came to America, Thomas 



Marquis married Miss Mary Colville. and Marv 
Marquis married John Wilson, and died shortly 
after. Thomas was the father of seven children 
— four sons and three daughters — named as fob' 
lows: William, James, John, Thomas, Elizabeth, 
Sarah and Anne. Thomas Marquis, the father of 
these children, was killed by the falling of a limb 
of a tree, whilst gathering corn. His children 
were brought up under the direction of his brother 
in-law, John Wilson, who was a school teacher, 
and a religious man, consequently they were care- 
fully educated, both secularly and religiously. 

William Marquis, son of Thomas, married Miss 
Elizabeth Vance, and reared a large family, most 
of whom came to this county, but afterward moved 
to Ohio. Hon. William Vance Marquis, ex-lieu- 
tenant-governor of Ohio, is a great-grandson. 
James Marquis married Miss Mary Vance, a sister 
of the wife of his brother William, and his family, 
which was large, came to this county, but after 
ward went to Ohio. John Marquis, the third son 
of this family, was the first of the name to settle in 
this county, and was one of the first settlers of 
Cross Creek township. He was born June 10, 
1750, and married Miss Sarah Griffith, of Fred 
erick county, Va. He settled, in 1774, on a tract 
of land for which he obtained a warrant February 
23, 1 780, and afterward received a patent. This 
tract was called " Marquesata," and contained 421 
acres, and allowance, embracing the farms now 
owned by H. C. Anderson and Robert Anderson, 
and a part of the farm of Richard Wells, called the 
"Mason" farm. For some time, on account of 
the Indian raids, he was obliged to keep his family 
in Vance's fort, while he tried to clear his farm. 
Once, while in his cabin, he heard the report of a 
rifle close at hand, and going out he saw a party 
of Indians killing his hogs. On seeing him they 
immediately gave the war whoop and rushed down 
upon him. It was a race for life, and although 
the Indians were so close to him at the start that he 
heard their footsteps in pursuit, yet he outran 
them and arrived in safety at Vance's fort. He 
was noted among the scouts and backwoodsmen as 
a fleet runner, and he was a man of strong and de- 
cided character; for many years was an elder of 
the Presbyterian Church of Cross Creek. He died 
February 25. 1822. He raised a family of nine 
children — six sons and three daughters, viz.: 
Thomas, John, Mary, Sarah, Edward, Robert, 
James, Anne and William, of whom Thomas mar- 
ried Nancy Marquis, his cousin, and they had a 
large family: John married Elizabeth Taggart, 
and they spent their days on a farm in Jefferson 
township, now owned by their son James T. Mar- 
quis (Rev. John A. Marquis, pastor of a Presby 
terian Church at Greensburg. Westmoreland Co., 
Penn., is a grandson, and Mrs. Rev. J. B. Lyle, 
of Scottdale, is a granddaughter); Mary Marquis 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



183 



married Hon. Joshua Robb, who was for many 
years an associate judge of the courts in Logan 
county, Ohio, and he represented that county in 
the State Legislature for several terms (Hon. 
Judge T. M. Robb, of Lima, Allen Co., Ohio, and 
Hun. Vance Robb, of the same county, also Hon. 
James Smith Robb, M. D., of Logan county, 
Ohio, were their sons); Sarah Marquis married 
John Nelson, and lived near Bellefontaine, Logan 
Co., Ohio (they had a family of eleven children); 
Edward Marquis was twice married, first to Mar- 
garet Marquis, and then to Elizabeth Newell (he 
had several children; his home was near Mt. Ver 
non, Knox Co., Ohio); Robert Marquis was also 
twice married, first to Hannah Van Nordstrand, 
and afterward to Mary Stevenson (his children, all 
of the second marriage, were Newton, Rev. John 
S. , Miles and Robert, of whom Newton married 
Mary Patterson, daughter of Hon. William Patter- 
son, and granddaughter of Gen. Thomas Patter- 
son, of Cross Creek; he died when a young man); 
Rev. John S. Marquis, D. D., married Margaretta 
Bryant McConaughy (he was for seventeen years 
paator of Pigeon Creek Presbyterian Church in 
this county: his home is now in Washington, and 
lie lias supplied the churoh of Lower Ten Mile at 
Amity, Pent)., for nearly seven years). (Prof. J. S. 
Marquis, principal of Brainerd Institute, Chester, 
S. O, and Hugh McConaughy Marquis, S. K of 
the B. & O. R. R. Works at Glen wood, Penn., are 
grandsons of Robert and Mary (Stevenson) Mar- 
quis); Miles'Marquis died young; Robert Marquis 
was twice married, first to Jane Patterson, daugh- 
ter of James Patterson, and granddaughter >l ( ten. 
Thomas Patterson, and his second wife was Eliza 
beth Scott (they now reside in Caldwell county. 
Mo., and have a family of seven children— four 
sons and three daughters). 

James Marquis, fifth son of the pioneer John, 
married first Nancy Roberts and afterward Nancy 
Elliott (he died in Knox county, Ohio; Mrs. Rev. 
N. C. Helfrich, of Plymouth, Ohio, is his daugh- 
ter); William Marquis (sixth son of John) married 
Elizabeth Adams, and lived near Tiffin, Seneca 
Co., Ohio (Mrs. Rev. Solomon Cook of that county 
is his daughter); Anne Marquis (third daughter of 
John) married Isaac Morrison, and they lived near 
Bellefontaine, Ohio. The children of John and 
Sarah (Griffith) Marquis were noted for their mu- 
sical talents and tine musical voices. Dr. John 
Stockton told the writer, that Robert Marquis had 
the finest musical voice of any man he ever heard 
sing. 

John Marquis and his brother Thomas (after- 
ward Rev. Thomas Marquis), in company with 
some others, pursued a band of Indians, which had 
made a raid into that neighborhood, in 1770, mur- 
dered one woman and took captive another woman 
(Reynolds) and child. They came upon the Iud 



ians just at daybreak, as they were making a raft 
to cross the Ohio river opposite where is now 
Mingo Junction, on the Pan Handle Railroad. 
Seven of the eight Indians were killed, and one 
man of the pursuing party. The families of James 
T. Marquis and of Rev. J. S. Marquis, D. D. , are 
the only descendants of John and Sarah Marquis 
now residing in this county. 

Rev. Thomas Marquis, the fourth son of Thomas 
and Mary (Colville) Marquis, was born in Opequan 
Valley, Va. , in 1753; was married March 5, 1770, 
to Jane Park, and some time after came to Wash- 
ington county. He settled on a tract of land for 
which he took out a warrant February 23, 1780, 
and afterward obtained a patent. This tract was 
called " Marrigate " and contained 417 acres, and 
allowance. The tract embraces one of the farms 
now owned by Richard Wells, the farm of the Be 
bout heirs, and a part of the Perrine tract. After- 
ward, by deed dated August 27, 1794, he pur- 
chased from Alexander Wells, of Cross Creek, and 
Nathan Cromwell, of Baltimore, a tract of 500 
acres, embracing lands now owned by Hon. J. S. 
Duncan, John Lee, a tract (called tho''McCon- 
nell" farm) now owned by W. C. Lee, and a part 
of the farm of Rev. J. S. Marquis, D. D. His fam 
ily was obliged to live for a time in Vance's fort, 
owing to the incursions of the Indians, and while 
there he was converted under the preaching of Rev. 
James Power, D. D. By the advice of Revs. 
Smith and Dodd he commenced preparation for the 
ministry. His classical education was obtained at 
Canonsburg Academy, and he studied theology 
under the direction of Rev. Dr. McMillan and Rev. 
Joseph Smith ; was licensed to preach the Gospel 
by the Presbytery of Redstone at Dunlap's Creek, 
April 19, 1793. He soon received three calls — 
from Bethel and Ebenezer, Ten-Mile, and Cross 
Creek. He was a natural orator. The tones of 
his voice were so musical that he was called the 
"Silver-tongued Marquis." He was pastor of 
Cross Creek Church for about thirty -three years. 
While on a visit ,to his son-in-law, Rev. Joseph 
Stevenson, he was attacked with fever, dying of 
same September 27, 1827, and was buried in the 
cemetery of Bellefontaine, Ohio. He had a large 
family of children, and his descendants are scat- 
tered far and wide. Rev. John M. Stevenson, D. 
D., one of the secretaries of the American Tract 
Society, at New York, Rev. James E. Marquis and 
Rev. Thomas Marquis Newell were grandsons. 
Rev. W. S. Marquis, pastor of the Presbyterian 
Church of Rock Island, 111., is a great-grandson, 
and Mrs. Patton, wife of Rev. Dr. Patton, president 
of Princeton College, Princeton, N. J., is a great- 
granddaughter. Only one of the daughters of 
Thomas and Mary (Colville) Marquis (Anne) 
came from Virginia to this county; she married 
Maj. James Park, who was killed by the Indians 



184 



II ASHING TON COUNTY. 



on a farm now belonging to the heirs of Josiah N. 
Scott, Esq., in Jefferson township, this county. 
The other daughters married in Virginia — Sarah 
married John Vance, and lived near Holstein, Va. ; 
Elizabeth married Daniel McOauley, and re 
inained in Virginia. 

There were some others of the name of Marquis 
who lived in this county, and were cousins of the 
children of Thomas and Mary (Colville) Marquis. 
George Marquis was one of the first bench of ciders 
of Cross Creek Church. Samuel Marquis also 
lived near to Burgettstown, and John also lived in 
the same neighborhood. If these were first 
cousins of John and Rev. Thomas Marquis, as they 
claimed, William Marquis, who came from Ireland 
in 1720, must have left other children in Ireland, 
who came to America at a later period; and this 
appears most likely to be the case as all these par- 
ties came from near Winchester, Va. , to this 
county. 



TEVENSON FAMILY of Washington 
county. Among the first settlers of Somer- 
set township, this county, were two families 
named Stevenson, the one of English, the 
other of Irish descent. Of the latter, Joseph Ste- 
venson and Margaret, his wife, emigrated from 
Ireland and settled in Letterkenny township, 
Franklin Co., Penn., at an early period in its his- 
tory. They had two sons. The elder one of the 
two was killed by the Indians, along with several 
others, whilst, harvesting his wheat, and his two 
children, with a hired girl named Jennie Harper, 
were taken prisoners. The younger of the two chil 
dren, a son, was afterward murdered, having his 
brains dashed out against a tree; the other, with the 
hired girl, was taken to Canada, but afterward ex- 
changed and returned home. She was married to 
Zachariah Spriggs, and they removed to a farm near 
to West Liberty, Ohio Co., W. Va. Afterward 
they made their home in Wheeling, whore she and 
her husband died. The "Spriggs House" in 
Wheeling was named for her husband, and the 
proprietors, the Yaruell Brothers, were her grand- 
sons. 

John Stevenson, the other son of Joseph Steven- 
son, was born in 1729, and for many years made 
his home in Cumberland county, Penn., where he 
was married, first to a Miss Mitchell, by which 
union he had two sons, named Joseph and George. 
His second wife was Jean McCoinbs, and their 
children were Mary, Robert, John, James, Mar- 
garet, Elizabeth, Jane and Anne. In 1781 he re- 
moved to Somerset township, Washington Co., 
Penn., and settled on a tract of land bought from 
Philip Whitten, containing 320 acres. He Jived 
on the part of the farm now owned by Samuel B. 
Weir. Afterward selling this farm, lie purchased 



the tract of land now owned by Andrew McCarrell, 
and the heirs of Hon. Thomas McCarrell in Mt. 
Pleasant township, this county. Having divided 
this farm among his children, he removed to one 
he owned near Cross Creek village, and which is 
now in the possession of Hon. J. S. Duncan and 
John S. Lee. He died at the age of ninety years, 
and is buried in the cemetery at Cross Creek vil- 
lage, where his second wife is also buried, having 
departed this life at the age of eighty-six years. 

Joseph Stevenson, the eldest son in this family, 
was in the Revolutionary army under Gen. Wash 
ington, and was with him the night he crossed the 
Delaware river in the ice with his army, and 
fought the battle of Trenton the following morn 
ing. He married Miss Mary Espy, and removed to 
Washington county some years after his father had 
come out. He made his home in Canonsburg, 
where he died, and he is buried in the cemetery at 
Chartiers Church. His children were as follows: 
Josiah Espy (who was a physician for many years 
at Kittanning, Armstrong Co., Penn.), Joseph, 
Marrianne, Maria, George Espy and John Mitchell. 
Rev. A. Russell Stevenson, pastor of the First 
Presbyterian Church of Schenectady, N. Y., is a 
great-grandson of Joseph Stevenson. 

George Stevenson, the second son, was also a 
soldier in the Revolutionary war, serving under 
Gen. Washington at the battle of Brandywine. At 
the close of the struggle he came to the home of 
Zachariah Spriggs, near West Liberty, W. Va., 
and whilst in the field plowing corn he was taken 
prisoner by the Indians under the leadership of 
that renegade white man, Simon Girty. He was 
compelled to carry a heavy iron kettle, lashed to 
his bare back, all the way to Canada. He was also 
at the same time suffering from a severe gash in 
the forehead, made by an Indian striking him with 
a tomahawk at the time of his capture. Three 
years and five months passed before he was ex- 
changed as a prisoner of war. He married Cath- 
arine McCombs, and lived for a time at what is 
now known as Hunter's Mill, on Harmon's creek 
in Hanover township. He afterward removed to 
Knox county, Ohio, where he died. The names 
of his children are as follows: John, George, 
Martha, Thomas, Eliza and Jane. Rev. George 
Graham, of Clarksville, Iowa, is his grandson. 

Mary Stevenson, the eldest child by the second 
marriage, was twice married, first to Joseph Nel- 
son, by whom she had two sons, James and John; 
after the death of this husband she was married 
to Rev. John McPhenin, who for many years was 
the pastor of the Presbyterian Church at Butler, 
Penn. Their children were as follows: Amelia, 
Samuel, William, Clark, Ebenezer, John, Ander- 
son, Josiah and Mary, of whom Amelia was mar 
ried to Hon. Walter Lowrie, for many years sec 
rotary of the board of foreign missions of the Pres 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



185 



byterian Church, and Rev. JohnC. Lowrie, D. D., 
LL. D. , the senior secretary of the same board, 
and Rev. Walter M. Lowrie, and Rev. Reuben 
Post Lowrie, both missionaries to China (now de- 
ceased) were her sons. 

Capt. Robert Stevenson, the eldest sou of John 
Stevenson, Sr. , by his second marriage, was a sol 
dier in the Revolutionary war, and belonged to a 
company commanded by Capt. McConnell.of Cum- 
berland county, Penn ; he was ;ilso in the war of 
1 S 1 2, as captain of a company; he assisted in the 
building of "Fort Stevenson'' near Sandusky, 
Ohio, and the fort was named in his honor; he 
married Miss Mary Teeters, and came to Wash- 
ington county at the close of the Revolutionary 
war; afterward he moved to near Salem, Colum- 
biana Co., Ohio, where he died; he was a member 
of the Legislature of that State at the time of his 
death. John Stevenson, Jr., son of John, Sr., 
was also a soldier in the Revolutionary war, and a 
member of the company commanded by Capt. 
McConnell; he settled first in Somerset township, 
this county, on a farm now owned by the Whitely 
heirs, afterward in Mt. Pleasant township, on a 
farm now owned by James Buchanan, Esq., and 
lastly in Cross Creek township, on part of a farm 
now owned by Hon. John S. Duncan; he packed 
on horseback over the mountains to the first store 
in Washington its first lot of goods; he died June 
13, 1817, aged eighty six years, and is buried in 
the cemetery at Cross Creek village; his wife was 
Mary McCombs, and their children were: John, 
Margaret, Jean, Mary and Malcom McCombs, all 
of whom died unmarried except Mary, who mar- 
ried Robert Marquis, and she leaves to survive her 
two sons: Rev. J. S. Marquis, D. D., who for 
many years was pastor of Pigeon Creek Church 
(of which his grandfather had been one of its 
members at an early date of its history), and Rob- 
ert Marquis, now of Caldwell county, Mo. 

James Stevenson died young and unmarried, 
and is buried in Pigeon Creek cemetery. Margaret 
Stevenson married John Cratty, and became the 
mother of two children: Keziah and John Steven 
son; Keziah married Robert Curry; a grandson, 
Robert Curry, Jr., Ph. D. , was the founder of 
"Curry University " at Pittsburgh, was for a time 
assistant State superintendent of public schools in 
Pennsylvania, and afterward State superintend- 
ent of public schools in Nebraska. Elizabeth 
Stevenson married John Stevenson, a son of the 
Stevenson family who were of English descent, 
of Somerset township; they lived on a farm now 
owned by the McCorkle heirs near to Pigeon 
Creek Presbyterian church; their children were 
Jane, Joseph, John, Maria, Elizabeth, Mary, 
Margaret, Emily, Frances and James Edgar, who 
became a Presbyterian minister, and died at Talla 
hassee, Florida. 



Jane Stevenson married John Graham, of Cross 
Creek, and their children were Henry, Robert, 
John, Mary, James, Ebenezer Stevenson, Margery, 
Elizabeth, Joseph, Thomas Smith and Anne; 
Ebenezer Stevenson Graham became a Presbyte 
rian minister, and was for some years pastor of 
Pigeon Creek Presbyterian Church; he died at 
Tampa Bay, Fla. Anne Stevenson, the young- 
est member of this family, married Col. John Vance, 
of Cross Creek, and her children were John, Anne, 
David, Jane, Joseph and Julia A. ; her son Joseph 
was a lawyer by profession, and was a member of 
the bar at Mt. Vernon, Knox Co., Ohio; in the 
Civil war he was the colonel of a regiment in the 
army of Gen. Banks, and was killed in the battle 
of Red River, Louisiana. 



' 



HrON. GEORGE S. GRAHAM, M. D., rep 
resents an old and prominent pioneer 
family, whose first settlement was made in 
- 1 Cross Creek township, Washington Co., 
Penn., in 1 770. 
Henry Graham, the earliest pioneer, of this 
family, of whom we have any authentic record, 
was a native of Chester county, Penn., where he 
was married to a native born lady, and, moving to 
Washington county, settled in Cross Creek town- 
ship, on the waters of Cross creek, before the 
Indians had left that part of the county. He died 
in 1827, leaving one son, John, married to Jane 
Stevenson, whose parents were also early settlers 
in Smith township. The following children were 
born to the union of John and Jane Graham: 
Robert, who moved to Knox county, Ohio, where 
he lived to old age; Henry, who went to Ohio; 
Thomas, now a resident of Mt. Gilead, Ohio; John, 
living in Knox county, Ohio; Joseph, who fol- 
lowed farming in this county, and resided on the 
old homestead in Cross Creek township; Rev. E. 
S., of whom a sketch follows; Ann, wife of Dr. 
Boyd Emery, both deceased in Somerset township, 
thi6 county; Mary, deceased when young; Jane, 
who died in early youth; Margery, Mrs. Murray; 
and Elizabeth, wife of James Walker. Of these, 
Thomas and Margery are yet living. The father 
always resided on the farm in Cross Creek town- 
ship, where he died in 1830. The Grahams were 
active Whigs and influential citizens; they were 
zealous members of the Cross Creek Presbyterian 
Church, which they assisted in founding. 

Rev. E. S. Graham was born in Cross Creek 
township, this county. He received his elementary 
education iu the rate schools of the day, then at- 
tended Cross Creek Academy, and finally took a 
thorough course at Jefferson College, graduating 
therefrom in 1834. In 1837 he was installed as 
pastor of the Presbyterian Church of Pigeon Creek, 
Washington county, where he remained until 1842, 



I SI! 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



proving a very popular minister. After preach- 
ing in a heated school room on one occasion, he 
caught a cold whieh terminated in bronchitis, and 
he then took a trip to Florida in search of health, 
residing at Tampa Bay for several years; he died 
in ISM; In the early part of his ministry he had 
married Sarah, daughter of John Johnson, who 
was horn near Washington, Ponn., and died a few 
years after her marriage, leaving four children. 
viz.: John J., a farmer of Washington county, who 
moved to Kentucky, thence to Knox county, Ohio; 
Hannah J., wife of James Morrison, of Mercer 
county, Penn; George S., whose name opens this 
sketch; and Sarah E. , Mrs. James Maxwell, of 
Mercer, Penn. . all now deceased except our sub- 
ject. 

George S. Graham, son of E. S. and Sarah 
(Johnson) Graham, was born December 2(5, 1839, 
in Somerset township, this county, and received a 
limited education in the common schools. At an 
early age he began working with a farmer named 
Stevenson (of Somerset township), and also lived 
for some time with Dr. Boyd Emery, of Somerset 
township. He then resided in Morrow county, 
Ohio, with an uncle, Thomas Graham, remaining 
there for some time, but wishing to secure a more 
extensive edu-eation finally returned to his native 
county, and entered Cross Greek Academy (where 
his father had also boen a student), remaining in 
that institution one year. He then took a three- 
year's course at the Bethany Academical Institute, 
under Dr. Marshall, afterward entered Jefferson 
College at Canonsburg, Penn., where he was a 
student at the beginning of the Civil war. Young 
Graham enlisted Sunday, April 27, 1861, in Com 
pany D, Tenth Regiment, Pennsylvania Reserve 
Corps. He was mustered in at Harrisburg, 
Penn., thence proceeding with his regiment to 
Washington, D. C. His regiment was attached to 
the First Arm}' Corps, under command of (Ten. 
McDowell, and was later attached to the Fifth 
Corps, serving through the Peninsular campaign. 
Our subject served in all the campaigns, marches 
and engagements of his regiment during his term 
of engagement. Their Hist engagement was at 
Drainesville, Va. ; he remained in active service 
until his regiment was mustered out June [2, 
1864, when he received an honorable discharge, 
and returned to his native county. After the war 
our subject began the study of medicine, and en- 
tered Jefferson Medical College, of Philadelphia, 
graduating March 10, 1866. In the following 
June he came to Florence, Hanover township, this 
county, where he has ever since practiced his 
chosen profession. On September 22, 1868, he 
was married to Sallie J. Tucker, who was born 
September 15, 1846, a daughter of David and 
Sarah (Watt) Tucker, of Hanover township. The 
following children have been born to their union: 



John T. (deceased), Lemuel F., David S., Charles 
S., Bertha M. and Thomas C. They have had 
excellent educational advantages. Dr. Graham 
has been a leading physician of Hanover township 
for many years and enjoys an extensive practice 
throughout the county. Politically he has for 
years been a leader of the Republican party in 
Hanover township, and has never missed an elec 
tion since his residence in this county. In 1884 
he was elected to the Legislature, serving during 
1 88 I 85. Dr. and Mrs. Graham are active mem 
bers of the Presbyterian Church, and he is a mem 
ber of the Session. 



IfO'HN D. BRADEN, of Washington borough. 
. I was born in Chippewa township, Beaver Co., 
{[JJ Peuu., November 21, 1826. John Braden, 
Sr. , his father, was a native of County Fer- 
managh, Ireland, born at a town called "Five Mile 
Town," near Euniskillen. 

His father (the grandfather of John D. Braden) 
was James Braden, and his grandmother, Marga- 
ret Howe, was of English parentage. They raised 
a large family in Ireland, and said Margaret died 
anil was buried there. The grandfather, James 
Braden, with his entire family, came to America 
some time about the year 17SU; John Braden, Sr., 
having grown up to manhood, became the owner of 
a farm near Youngstown, Ohio, and resided on the 
same until the breaking out of the war of 1812 
with Great Britain, when he joined the army and 
served therein until the close of the war. After 
the war John Braden, Sr. , was married to Kather 
ine Mclntyre, daughter of William Mclntyre, who 
was a native of Scotland, and in early times had 
migrated to this country, settling at Hagerstown, 
Md. John Braden and his wife Katherine, after 
their marriage, removed from near Youngstown, 
Ohio, to Chippewa township, Beaver county, where 
they lived for over fifty years, having born to them 
a large family, amongst whom was John D. Bra- 
den, the only one of the family who resides in 
Washington county. 

John D. Braden, the subject of this sketch, after 
several years' attendance at Beaver Academy, lo- 
cated in the town of Beaver, Penn., came to Wash 
ington in 1849, and entered the junior class atWash- 
iugton College, which, later, was consolidated with 
the Jefferson College. Mr. Braden graduated 
from this institution in the summer of 1851, and 
at once commenced the study of law in the office 
of Hon. George S. Hart, who at that time was Dis 
trict Attorney for Washington county, and subse- 
quently was elected Judge of the Courts of said 
county. Mr. Braden was admitted to the Bar of 
Washington County in 1853, and from that time 
to the present has practiced his profession with a 
fair show of success, standing at all times in a 






jrfflp**^ 



"' W^Sy'J?* - 





£**" 




WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



189 



position with those in the front rank at the Bar. On 
November 11, 1851' he was married to Miss Anna 
C. Ruple, the youngest daughter of Col. James 
Ruple, Sr. , deceased, and to them have been born 
a large family, as follows: Rebecca, intermarried 
with D. J. McAdam, Professor in Washington and 
Jefferson Oillege; John Mclntyre Braden, who is 
a member of the Bar in this county, since 1879, 
and has attained a prominent position in the ranks 
of the legal profession, enjoying a large and lu 
crative practice; Alfred Goodrich Braden, a grad- 
uate of Washington and Jefferson College, and 
fur the last eight years the successful Principal of 
the schools in the borough of Washington; George 
W. Braden, who is by profession a photographer, 
anil follows that business in said borough at the 
present time; Lillie M., who teaches a select school 
in said borough; Ernest Braden, who died De 
cember 24, 1891; James Paul Braden, who is a 
student at the before-mentioned college; Anna and 
Kate Braden, who reside at home with their par 
ents. There were also two other children, Arthur 
and William, who died in their infancy. In p'lli 
tics Mr. Braden has always been a Democrat, and 
at all times ready and willing to do his best for 
the advancement of the principles of his chosen 
party. He never held office, except School Di- 
rector and Member of the Council, and also Presi 
dential Elector in the Cleveland and Harrison cam- 
paign in 1892, which ended in a manner entirely 
satisfactory to the subject of this sketch. 



Hall, of Wheeling, W. Va., son of Stewart Hall, 
of County Tyrone, Ireland, son of John Hall, Esq., 
of Kssex. England, and Irene Zaue Howell, daugh- 
ter of James Howell, of Scotland. The children 
born to Mr. and Mrs. Alfred G. Braden are as fol- 
lows: Irene Howell, Alfred Goodrich and Ida 
Rebecca. Politically Mr. Braden is a Democrat, 
and in religion he is a member of the M. E. Church, 
in which for some years he has taken an active 
interest. 




[( LFRED G. BRADEN, principal of the 
l\ public schools of Washington, was born 
4\ October 16, 1858, in Washington, Penn., a 
-* son of John D. Braden, Esq., and Anna 
Ruple Braden. At the high school of his 
native town he received a thorough general educa- 
tional training, and he then entered Washington 
and Jefferson College, where he pursued a four 
years' course of reading and study in classics, etc. 
Mr. Braden' s first business experience after 
leaving college was as civil engineer for the Pitts 
burg Southern Railroad Company, in which capac- 
ity he served one year, and then was with the 
Chartiers & Youghiogheny Railroad Company in 
similar service two years. In 1884 he accepted 
the appointment of principal of public schools of 
Washington, which position he occupies with credit 
to himself and the satisfaction of all interested. 
To the management and improvement of the 
schools Mr. Braden has given his entire time and 
attention, and by bis assiduous efforts, coupled 
with those of an able corps of assistants, has ele- 
vated the educational institutions under his charge 
to a high degree of excellency. 

On July 21, 1886, Mr. Braden was united in 
marriage with Ida Mann, daughter of John H. 



GOLIN M. REED. Alexander Reed, grand 
father of the subject of this memoir, was a 
■-.hi .if Robert Reed, who had graduated at 
Edinburgh, Scotland, and was a minister of 
considerable repute aud high standing in that coun- 
try: but was called to Ireland to preach against 
the Arian heresy then creeping into the Presby- 
terian Church. The church Robert Reed estab- 
lished at Manor Cunningham, in County Donegal, 
Ireland, had at one time, it is said, as many as a 
thousandcommunicauts,and his children and grand- 
children have been the sole occupants of the pulpit 
for over one hundred and fifty years. Alexander 
Heed's brother, Thomas, and his mother's brother, 
Alexander Cunningham, had settled in the town of 
Washington, Penn., some time bef.n-e the advent 
of Alexander Reed, who came in L794, from Done 
gal, Ireland. The death of his brother, just men- 
tioned, occurring soon after Alexander's arrival in 
Washington, he became sole proprietor of the store 
now occupied by his grandsons, Colin M. and 
Alexander (brothers), and records show that he 
was in business in 1794. He became much in- 
terested in developing the agricultural resources of 
the county, and from time to time purchased a 
considerable amount of real estate. In 1821 he 
bought a flock of imported Spanish Merino sheep 
of Alexander Wilson, of Philadelphia, began the 
business of fine-wool growing, and was the first to 
send wool to the Eastern market; he lived to see 
Washington the finest wool-growing county in the 
United States, with a million sheep on her hills and 
meadows. He was also among the first to intro- 
duce the best breeds of English horses and cattle 
into this part of the State. In 1826 he sent silk- 
worm eggs to George Rapp, of Economy, the 
founder of the Economite Society, who gave them 
to his granddaughter, and it was not long before 
both Mr. Rapp and his granddaughter made their 
appearance in Washington, on a certain fair day, 
arrayed in suits of handsome black silk, the manu- 
factured product of that gift of silkworm eggs. 
This was in reality the beginning of the silk fac- 
tory at Economy, which was in operation some 
thirty or forty years. In the charter of Washing- 
ton College, Alexander Reed was one of the trustees, 
as well as of the Female Seminary. He aided in 



190 



WASH IN a TON CO f 'N TY. 



establishing, and was president of, the Franklin 
Bank of Washington (which became, in 1864, the 
First National Bank) from its foundation in 1836; 
he was treasurer of the First Presbyterian Church 
of Washington from its organization, in 1809, till 
his death, a period of twenty-seven years. He 
was president of "The Moral Society'" of Wash- 
ington borough, which was formed April 14, 1825, 
its object being the suppression of vice and im- 
morality. In fact, in all projects and enterprises 
tending to the advancement of the interests of 
town or country; in all the institutions devoted to 
the promotion of the cause of education, morals or 
religion, he was prominent, active and efficient. 
His regard for truth, equity and honesty was the 
foundation of the universal confidence reposed in 
him. In all the varied and multiplied transactions 
of nearly fifty years, his truth and integrity were 
never impeached, and he was never engaged in a 
lawsuit. Mr. Reed was an A. F. & A. M., and a 
member of Lodge No. 54, Washington, which 
dropped out of existence about the time of the 
war of 1812. In his political sentiments he was 
a Whig. He died in September, 1842. 

In 1799 Alexander Reed was united in marriage 
with Janet, daughter of Rev. Colin McFarquhar, 
of Inverness, Scotland, who came to this country 
during the Revolutionary war, and for thirty years 
preached in an old church that is yet standing in 
Donegal, Lancaster Co., Penn. The children born 
to Alexander and Janet (McFarquhar) Reed were: 
George, Eliza, Colin M., Robert Rentoul, Alex 
ander and Sarah; the last tw_o dying in infancy; 
George died at the age of twenty eight years, and 
many cherished hopes for a brilliant future were 
buried with him; Eliza was called from earth while 
on a visit to Philadelphia, just in the bloom of 
womanhood; Colin M. has special mention further 
on: Robert Rentoul. also has special mention be- 
low; Janet Reed died in ISIS, and Alexander Reed 
married Isabella Lyon, daughter of Samuel Lyon, 
of Carlisle, widow of William H >ge, of Washington, 
and a sister of Hon. James <1. Blaine's grand- 
mother; she lived until June, 1868; Alexander 
Reed died in September, 1842. 

Dr. Robert Rentoul Reed, son of Alexander and 
Janet (McFarquhar) Reed, was born March 12. 
1807. He graduated at Washington College in 
1S24, studied medicine with Dr. LeMoyne, and 
graduated from Jefferson Medical College, Phila- 
delphia. In 1 S4S he was nominated for Congress 
in the district then composed of Washington and 
Beaver, and represented the district in 1S49 and 
1 850. He was a member of the Pennsylvania 
Legislature in 1863 and 1864. In all benevolent 
enterprises Dr. Reed was always foremost. For a 
number of years he acted as vice-president and 
afterward as agent of the Pennsylvania Coloniza- 
tion Society, in which philanthropic enterprise lie 



rendered most efficient service. For thirty six 
years he was a consistent member of the First 
Presbyterian Church, and during seventeen of 
these years he was a ruling elder, and for twenty- 
six years was superintendent of the Sabbath- school. 
In 1830 he married Eleanor, eldest daughter of 
Judge Thomas H. Baird, and their children were: 
Ann Eliza, Alexander, Thomas, Janet, George, 
Eleanor, Isabel, Robert. Colin. William, Joseph 
and Charles. Only four of these twelve children 
are living: George, Colin, William and Joseph. 
Dr. R. R. Reed died December 14, 1864; his 
widow June 25, 1892. 

Alexander Reed, born near Washington Septem 
ber 28, 1832, graduated from Washington College 
in 1851, and Western Theological Seminary in 
1856. He was a Presbyterian minister, an eloquent 
and attractive preacher of the Gospel. Princeton 
College conferred the degree of D. D. on Dr. Reed 
in 1865. His first charge was Octorara, one of the 
long-established churches of the Presbytery of 
Chester, from 1856 to 1864. From there he went 
to the Central Church of Philadelphia, and remained 
until 1873. He then went to the South Church of 
Brooklyn, and resigned this charge on account of 
ill health. He then went to Europe with his family 
for a year (having been abroad before for the sum- 
mer of 1869), and when he returned from Europe 
he became pastor of the Central Church of Denver, 
Colo., where he lived until he died, November 18, 
1878. He had six children: Elizabeth, Eleanor, 
James Watson, Robert Rentoul, Mary Morgan and 
Alexander. Of these, Elizabeth died when an in- 
fant, and Alexander in March, 1889, aged eleven 
years. The widow of Alexander Reed lives in 
Washington with her daughter, James Watson, in 
Denver, Robert in Pittsburgh. Thomas Baird 
Reed was an eminent physician in Philadelphia. 
He was born October 23, 1834, graduated at Wash 
iugton College in 1S52; was medical student with 
Dr. Blackburn, and graduated at Jefferson Med 
ical College, Philadelphia. He was resident phy- 
sician in the Pennsylvania Hospital from 1859 to 
1861. During the Civil war he was a surgeon in 
the Pennsylvania Volunteers from 1862 to 1865. 
On October 23, 1867, he married Mary G., daugh 
ter of Archibald Campbell, of Carlisle, Penn., and 
they had four daughters: Elizabeth, Eleanor, 
Marie and Janet, three of whom are living; Marie, 
the third daughter, died February 22, 1S93. Dr. 
Thomas D. Reed died April 1, 1891. George W. 
Reed is in business in Pittsburgh; he was in the 
Civil war. He married Matilda MeKenuan. daugh- 
ter of Hon. Thomas McKennan, and sister of Judge 
McKennan. They have had twelve children: Rob- 
ert, Thomas, Baird, Alexander, George, William, 
Clark, Eleanor, John, Matilda, Joseph and Frank, 
all living except Alexander and Frank, who died in 
infancy. Colin graduated from Washington and 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



191 



Jefferson College in 1869. In 1874 be married 
Lida Lord, of Mississippi, and they had six chil- 
dren: William, Robert, Richard, Eva, Lida and 
Colin, of whom Richard died in infancy. Lida 
Reed died in 1885, and Colin afterward married 
her sister, Louisa Lord. William was educated at 
Washington and Lafayette College. He married, 
in 1875, Mary McKnight, of Pittsburgh, and they 
had six children: Margaret, Eleanor, Katharine, 
Thomas, Mary and William, of whom Eleanor, 
Mary and William are not living. Mary, wife of 
William B. Reed, died in September, 1889. Rob 
ert Reed died in the army at Georgetown, D. C, 
July 16, 1863, of typhoid fever. Joseph is the 
editor of Arthur's Home Magazine, and lives in 
Philadelphia. All the daughters died when quite 
young, and Charles when an infant. 

Colin M. Reed, Sr. , was born in Washington, 
Penn., November 28, 1804. He was prominently 
identified with the business interests of Washing 
ton. His father, Alexander Reed, was the first 
president of the Franklin Bank, which was organ 
ized in 1836. Colin M. was elected to the same 
position in 1852, and held it until the same insti- 
tution was organized in 1865 as the First National 
Bank, of which he was elected president, and held 
the office without intermission until his death. In 
1855 he was made a director of the HemptieU 
Railroad Company, and continued one until it was 
merged into the Baltimore & Ohio. From 1841 
he was a trustee of Washington Female Seminary. 
and one of the largest stockholders. For many 
years he was a trustee of Washington and Jeffer 
son College and until his death. He was a mem- 
ber of the first board organized in 1843 for the 
management of the common schools of Washing- 
ton. He was for years president of the Washing- 
ton Gas Company and of the board of trustees of 
the Washington Cemetery. During our Civil war 
he acted as treasurer and general agent for Wash- 
ington county in behalf of the Christian Commis- 
sion. He was also very much interested in the 
temperance cause, and in the Bible Society. He 
was a trustee of the First Presbyterian Church, 
and served as treasurer for twenty-seven years. 
He was not a politician in the sense that he sought 
office, but was always very much interested in the 
success of the Republican party. 

In 1835 he was united in marriage with Mrs. 
Ritner, widow of Lieutenant Ritner, U. S. army. 
She died in March, 1837, leaving a daughter, 
Mary, now the wife of Henry Laughlin, of the firm 
of Jones & Laughlin, of Pittsburgh. In 1842 Mr. 
Reed married Sarah E. Chapman, of Massachu- 
setts, sister of Maj. William Chapman, and the 
children of this marriage were Isabella, Laura, 
Helen, Alexander, Colin M., Jr., Robert, Ethel ind 
and Alice. Of these Isabella married William 
Copeland, of Pittsburgh, and both have been dead 



many years; Laura is the wife of James R. Clark, 
and is now living in Mandan, N. D. (They have 
three children: Colin, Anne and Isabel). Alexau- 
der graduated at Washington and Jefferson Col- 
lege in 1871, and is in business with Colin M. 
Reed, Jr.; Alice married John L. Dickey, a prom 
inent physician of Wheeling. W. Ya. ; Alexander 
and Ethelind are unmarried; Helen and Robert 
died in earlv childhood. Colin M. Reed, Sr.,died 
January 12," 1SS8, his wife August 7, 1892. He 
served as treasurer of the First Presbyterian 
Church at Washington twenty-seven years. 

Colin M. Reed, Jr., was born and educated in 
Washington. In 1874 he married Ada Brownlee, 
of Iowa, who was educated at Washington Female 
Seminary. She was a daughter of Samuel Brown- 
Ice anil Katharine Clark, and a granddaughter of 
William Brownlee and Joseph C. Clark — both men 
prominently identified with the wool growing in 
dustry. Colin M. and Ada B. Reed had six chil 
dren, five of whom are living: Katharine, Harriet, 
Charles, Alexander and Colin; the second child 
in infancy. Colin M. Reed is a director in the 
1'irst National Back; a trustee of the Washington 
Female Seminary, and trustee of the Firs! Presby 
terian Church. 



SAAC W. MITCHELL is one .,f the best-known 
business men of Washington, and partner in 
probably the oldest grocery house in the place. 
He is descended fmm a Scotch Irish family, 
who in an early day emigrated from the North of 
Ireland to this country, making a settlement on 
Short creek, in West Virginia. Alexander Mitch- 
ell, paternal grandfather of Isaac W. , by occupa- 
tion a farmer, was a native of West Virginia, where 
were born to him five children, all deceased. 

Zachariah Mitchell, father of subject, grew to 
manhood at the place of his birth, and was reared 
to agricultural pursuits, which he followed until 
1853. In 1844 he married Miss Ann, daughter of 
George and Jane (Wilson) Baird, of Washington, 
Penn. This Baird family were of Scotch ancestry, 
the first to come to America having been John 
Baird, who was born in Scotland about the year 
1730, and crossed the Atlantic with Gen. Braddock 
in 1755. His only son, Dr. Absalom Baird, was 
the first of the family to come to Washington, 
which was in 1786; he served in the Revolutionary 
war, first as ensign aud afterward as assistant sur- 
geon. He was the one who trepanned Gen. An- 
thony Wayne's skull, which had been struck by a 
musket ball at the storming of Stony Point, N. Y., 
on the night of July 15, 1779. After coming to 
Washington, Dr. Baird built a house which, but 
little changed, still stands, and during the visit of 
the French king, Louis Philippe, to the United 
States at the close of the last century, the royal 



192 



ii VSHINOTOh COl \ l) 



exile was entertained for some time in this house. 
Dr Baird died October 27, 1805, the n^sult of a 
full from u horse. One of his sons. George, be 
oame the grandfather of our subject. Ho was horn 
in Kennett Square, Penn., in 1785 was educated 
at Washington Academy ami for a time "a- a 
tutor Afterward he embarked in mercantile pur 
suits in Washington, in which he continued until 
his death, November 1. L8C0, the present business 
of his son, A Todd Baird, having been established 
l>v him. At the age of twenty -i\ (1811) In- be 
came sheriff of Washington county; was also a 
member of the Legislature, filling an unexpired 
term. Hi' was married October 25, 1811, to Jane 
w >on, who l' >re him fourteen children seven 
^,'n- and 9even daughters. In 185-2 Mr. ami Mrs. 
Zaohariab Mitchell removed to Missouri, where t ho 
latter died August 28, 1853, the mother <>f five 
children., \ George B (deceased); Alexander, 
treasurer of the Mutual Savings Hank of Wheel 
iug, W, Va : and Martha B . Isaac W.,and James 
i\ ashierof the Dime Savings Institution of Wash 
ington, ali residents of Washington. After the 
mother's death the father went t" Pexas, and there 
made his homo until 1865, in whicb year ho returned 
to Missouri, where he died March 20, 188 

Isaac W Mitchell was horn m Wheeling, W 
\ i . February 10, 1851, and was but two years ol 
age wheu brought to Washington, whore, at the 
common schools of the borough, and at Washing 
ton and Jefferson College, he received his educa- 
tion. He chose ho tkkeeping as his life work, which 
rooatiou ho followed two years in Iowa ami three 
years in Chicago, 111., hut on account of failing 
health ho returned to Washington in 1^71 [n 
I8S5 ho engaged with his uncle, Mr A Todd 
Baird, in the grooery business which ho has since 
successfull) conducted. On November 1. 18S2, 
Mr Mitchell was married to Mi>s Sarah K Hill, 
of Blairsville, Indiana Co., Penn. , daughter of Re> 
George Hill. O D., pastor of the Presbyterian 
Church, and president of the board of trustees of the 
Western theological Seminary at Allegheny, Penn. 
Co this union four children have been born: Elea- 
uor Baird, Georgia Hill. Harriot Todd and 
Marthine B . of whom two, Georgia and Harriet 
l'odd. are deceased. Our subject is a busy man 
and has filled and is filling various offices of trust, 
amoug which may be mentioned: borough coun- 
cilman; treasurer of Washington and Jefferson 
College; treasurer of the V M C A . treasurer 
and director of the Washington Glass Company ; 
director of the Gas. Electric Light a Power and 
TylerTnb a Pi] > Companies, and of the Farmers 
a Mecha N inal Bank. \\^~ is a member of 
the Presbyterian Church of Washington, ami in 
In'1 was sent to Minneapolis as a delegate from 
the Young People's S bristian Endeavor 



J 



MORGAN MAURER, M. D., of the Homo 
opathic school of medicine, is one of the lead 
ing and busiest physicians in the borough of 
Washington. Ho was born in Pottsville, 
Penn., on October 24, l848,asonof F. H. and 
Anna M. (Morgan) Maurer, the former of whom is 
now a resident of Denver, Colo. ; the latter died in 
the spring of 1880. The Maurer family axe of 
German descent. Mrs. Maurer was a daughter of 
roseph Morgan, of Schuylkill county, Penn. Mr. 
and Mrs F. H Maurer had a family of eight 
children, of whom the Bubjeot of this sketch is the 
only one living in Washington count] ; he has one 
brother Howard M. Maurer, and one sister Anna 
M Maurer in Philadelphia, one sister— Kate A. 
Bassett in Sheldon, Iowa, and two brothers John 
L. and George F. Maurer in Denver, Colorado. 
J. Morgan Maurer was two years old when his 
parents moved with their family to Baltimore, M.I.. 
and here ho received a liberal common-school 
education. He commenced the study of medicine 
in 1ST1 ami during 1873, '74, '75, attended the 
Hahnemann Medical College of Philadelphia, from 
whiob he graduated. After this he practiced a 
short time in Baltimore, thou in Pottsville, till 
September, 1877, when he came to Washington, 
rhere being at that time no Homoeopathic physician 
in the town, be had to work his way into practice, 
h\ demonstrating (againt no inconsiderable amount 
of prejudice) the real merits of the Hahnemann 
system; and his remarkable success is shown by an 
almost unparalleled professional record, and the 
general verdict of the community among whom he 
practices. The Dootor makes a specialty of the 
diseases of women and children, and his ride for a 
long time extended throughout the entire county, 
but of late years he has to a considerable extent 
given up country practice. 

In March. 1 VS T. Di Maurer was married to 
Miss Susan -lane, daughter of William H. and 
lane K (Jones) Taylor, of whom mention is made 
elsewhere, and one child has blessed their union 
Jane E Mrs Maurer is a member of the First 
M E Church of Washington. Dr. Maurer is a 
member of the Episcopal Church of Pottsville, 
Penn.. and socially he is connected with the 1. O. 
F. and Jr. 0. I A M He has been extensive 
ly interested in the development of the oil fields in 
ami around Washington county. 



WILLIAM 1. McCLEARY. This widely 
known dentist is descended from rugged 
S tch Irish ancestry, hi- grandfather, 
Thomas McCleary, having, at an early 
day. emigrated to America from the mother conn 
try after his marriage in England with Miry Linn, 
a native of that GOUntri 



WASIUMIITON COl'XTY 



193 



They settled in Virginia, and had the following 
family: James, Jane (married John Fowler), John 
(deeeased when young), Eliza (married James 
Ciiii), Sarah (married John Fowler), William, 
Swing (married Mary A. McGee), Thomas (twice 
married, lirst time to Kate Pryor, and after her 
death to Mary McGrew; ho was a Methodist min- 
ister for over forty years, and a recognized leader 
in the community). Martha (Mrs-. Lewi- Carter) 
and Julia (Mrs. .lames Reed). The father of this 
family was both an agriculturist and a cooper, and 
after coming to Virginia lie passed his days on a 
farm in Brooke county. In politics he was a faith- 
ful Democrat, and in religion a devout member of 
the M. E. Church. 

William McCIeary, father of the subject of this 
sketch, was born February 18, 1805, near Win 
Chester. His father removed to Brooke county, 
Va. , where ho was reared and educated, and 
learned the trade of cooper. On reaching his 
majority (the farm lieing small and the family 
large), he left (he parental roof for the purpose of 
carving out his own fortune, and being of a deli 
oate constitution, ho was obliged to look for such 
work as he was best able to perform. He taught 
school, took trading vessels down the Ohio, etc., 
and after a time ho engaged to drive the stage 
then being run between Washington and Wellsburg. 
After driving for some months on this route, he 
secured employment as driver of a mail coach on 
the Cumberland road. Under this engagement he 
first drove from Hillshoro to Claysville, afterward 
from Washington to Wheeling, and during a por- 
tion of the time into Ohio. He drove in all about 
eighteen years, sometimes two, sometimes four, 
and on special occasions even six horses. During 
his career he was associated with men, most of 
whom are now forgotten, and many a tale would 
he tell, in after years, of the excitement when the 
opposition lines were competing for public patron- 
age, and when the orders to the drivers were " to 
make the time or kill the horses" (ten miles an 
hour); also of the not infrequent runaways, one of 
which well deserves to be perpetuated in history. 
" Mr. McCIeary Was driving a large black team from 
Triadelphia to Wheeling. On coming to Wheel- 
ing hill ho threw the rubber bar down, but the 
blocks jumping out, the bar struck the off wheel 
horse, which sprang forward, and in an instant 
the team became unmanageable and in full flight. 
Reaching the culvert at the foot of the hill, the 
coach turned over, hind end foremost, threw the 
driver in a hog wallow, and tumbled the passengers 
and mail around generally. Finding no one hurt, 
and the horses all gone, he ran for the postoffice 
to have them bring their wagon and get the mail 
in on time; for if he failed to get the mail to the 
office at the right time, he was liable to lose his 
position. Only one horse of that team was ever 



lit )., be hitched again, and two of them were killed 
OUtrighi in the disaster. - ' Mr. McCIeary lived in 
Claysville six years; then, when Col. William Hop- 
kins was commissioner of the road, ho took charge 
of the tollgate near West Alexander (at which 

i the tolls often amounted to as much as $400 

per month), and lived there nine years. It was not 
uncommon in those .lavs for twenty or more stage 

coaches to be ill full view at one time, so great 
was the traffic. After leaving the toll gate, Mr. 

McCIeary moved to East Finley township, and 
settled on a farm purchased of George Enlow. 

Later he boughi thn ther tracts of land, two in 

this county, and one in West Virginia, all vain 
able. William McCIeary was married January 17, 
1836, to Susan G., a daughter of Thomas Wilkin 
son, of Hillsboro, Penn. Their children ware 
Thomas J., James C, John E., Mary .1. (Mrs. 
Roberl Bell), Sarah E. (Mrs. Porter McCarrell), 
William L.. Martha L. (Mrs. John Donely), Fran 
cisM., Lewis C, Martin L. (deeeased) and Caro- 
line A (Mrs. William Wachter). The father died 
April :i. 1882, all his family lieing with him in his 
last moments, except one daughter who had died 
in her thirtieth year. He was essentially a self- 
made man, having started in life with naught save 
his industrious hands and a willing heart, and 
when ho was called from earth his estate was 
valued at $50,000. He was an exemplary man in 
all respects, of unquestioned integrity and truth, 
a lover of home with its quiet cares and enjoy- 
ments. For many years he was a consistent 
member of the Baptist Church at Pleasant Grove, 
East Finley township, in which ho held the 
office of deacon; in politics he was a pronounced 
Democrat, holding at different times various 
township offices. 

William L. McCIeary. the subject proper of this 
memoir, was born May 23, 1848, in DonegaHown- 
ship. his education being received at the public 
schools of the district. At the age of nineteen he 
came to Washington borough, and entered the den- 
tal office of Dr. Samuel Fulton, where he remained 
in the study of dentistry two years, and then 
opened an office for the practice of that profession, 
in Uniontown, Fayette county, whence, after a res- 
idence of four years, he returned to Washington. 
On November 3, 1875, he was married to Mary E., 
daughter of S. M. Brinton, of Allegheny county, 
and to this union seven children were born. viz. : 
Mariana L., William M., Sarah E. (deceased), Ruth 
G., Elizabeth B., Homer B., and Esther B. The 
ancestors of the Brinton family of Allegheny 
county came from England at an early day, set- 
tling in West Chester, Penn., and the grandfather 
of Mrs. McCIeary moved thence to Allegheny 
county, making his home on a farm in the Tnrtle 
Creek valley, where be died. Ho was a member of 
the Society of Friends. S. M. Brinton, father of 



KI4 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Mrs. McCleary, w;is born in eastern Pennsylvania. 
He came with his parents to Allegheny county, 
where be followed agricultural pursuits all his days. 
He was twice married, iirstto Elizabeth Donley, who 
bore him one child Robert. His second wife was 
Mary McGrew, a native of Westmoreland county, 
and by this union were born: S. M., Jr., William 
M., Mary E., M. H. and Sarah J. (Mrs. J. How- 
aid (Hark). Mr. Brinton died on January 16, 
1890. In religion he was a member of the Society 
of Friends, and in politics was first a Republican, 
later a Democrat. Dr. McCleary is a member of 
the Baptist Church, and is at present serving as 
trustee. In politics he is purely independent; vot- 
ing according to his judgment for " the right man 
in the right place." Aside from his profession he 
has divers interests, such as oil and gas specula- 
tions, as well as various fanning interests. He is 
a member of the People's Light & Heat Com- 
pany and of the Tyler Tube Works. 



»T-Y EV. MATTHEW HENDERSON was born 
\L/s in Fifeshire, Scotland, in 1735, graduated 
If V at Glasgow, studied theology, and was 
1) -^ licensed to preach in 1756. Ordained in 
v 1758, he was sent to America. Soon after 

his arrival he settled as pastor of the Associate 
Church at Oxford, Chester Co., Penn., and re- 
mained at Oxford until 1781, when he became pas- 
tor of Chartiers and Buffalo churches in Washing- 
ton county, Penn., being the first minister of that 
denomination to settle west of the Alleghany 
mountains. He remained with this people, teach- 
ing and preaching the Gospel, until called to his 
rest October 2, 1795. A falling tree caused his 
death. He was married to Mary Ferris, and to 
them were born ten children, namely; Matthew, 
Mary, John, Ellen, Elizabeth, Ann, Ebenezer, 
Joseph, Robert, and Jane. Matthew was a minis- 
ter and married Miss Patterson- Mary married 
Samuel White, a farmer; John married Isabella 
Russell; Ellen married Samuel Murdoch, M. D. ; 
Elizabeth married Alexander Murdoch; Ann mar 
tied Rev. Thomas Allison; Ebenezer was a minis- 
ter and married Miss Noble; Joseph was a phy- 
sician; Robert married Elizabeth Russell, and Jane 
married James Clark, a farmer. 

Robert Henderson, who married Elizabeth Rus- 
sell, lived on a farm in Chartiers township, ami to 
them were born seven children: Matthew, Andrew, 
Ebenezer, Alexander, John, Mary and Robert. 
Their eldest son, Matthew, was born December 1, 
1803, in Chartiers township, was married February 
I 1, 1829, to Mary Hutchinson, and lived here until 
1853, when they moved to Mercer county, Penn. 
In 1851) they moved to Lawreuce county, Penn.. 
and returned to Washington county in 1885. 
Mrs. Mary Henderson died in Lawrene inty, 



January 1, 1S77. To them were born six children: 
John 11., Elizabeth R., Robert A., Martha J., 
Frances M. and Harriet A. Johu H. married 
Nancy Hammond, who died, and he married Em- 
ma C. Robinson. By his first wife he had four 
children: John Allison. Margaret, William and 
Alexander. The latter died at the age of nine 
teen. Elizabeth li. married Robert J. Harper, and 
to them four children were born: Anna M., Eliza 
lieth H. , Ella (now deceased) and Eva O. G. 
Robert A. married Mary Ellen Blair, to whom 
three sons were born: Frank B., Audley C. and 
William A. Martha J. remains single. Harriet 
A. died December 17, 1881. Frances M. married 
Rev. Johu Weir, has two daughters: Mary H. and 
Margaret B. Rev. John Weir died May 28, 1873. 
He was a preacher in Canada. In politics Mr. 
Matthew Henderson was a Whig, and is now a 
Republican. In religious faith he is a member of 
Chartiers United Presbyterian Church. 



THOMAS MAXWELL POTTS has been a 
resident of Canonsburg since early in 1870. 
He is a thorough American, being able to 
trace every line of ancestry (with perhaps a 
single exception) to progenitors upon Amer 
icau soil for two centuries and longer, embracing 
English, Welsh, German, Dutch, Swedish and 
French original settlers. He is a descendant of 
the old Cheshire (England) family of Potts, through 
a branch who had settled in Montgomeryshire, 
Wales, where they embraced the religious views of 
George Fox and William Penn. 

On account of the religious persecution of the 
time, David Potts and one or two brothers mi- 
grated to Philadelphia county, Penn., about 1090. 
In 1694 David Potts married Alice Croasdale, who 
with her parents had come over with William Penn 
in 1082. Their third son, Daniel, born in 1697, 
married Sarah Shoemaker in 1721. Their son, 
Samuel, born in 1723, married Ann Ashmead (nee 
Rush) in 1751. Their son. James, born 1752, 
married Sarah Wessell in 1777. Their youngest 
son, Thomas Jefferson Potts, was 'born in 1798, and 
married Margaret Carter in 1835. The subject of 
this sketch was the eldest sou of this marriage, 
having been born February 17, 1830. in Chester 
county, Penn. The other original paternal ances- 
tors of Mr. Potts, in America, were: Thomas 
Croasdale, Peter Shoemaker, Isaac Opden Graef, 
Jacob Isaacs Van Bebber, Capt. John Rush, Bryan 
Peart, Henry Stirk, Edward Eaton and John Wells, 
of Pennsylvania, and Wessel Evertszen, Claes Jan- 
Ben St avast, Cornells Van Tienhoven, Guylen Vinge 
and Claes Claeszen Bording, of New York. Among 
the first American ancestors on his mother's side, 
may be mentioned Jeremiah Carter, William Clay- 
ton, Edward Bezer. Walter Marten, Joseph Bushal, 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



195 



William Cloud, John Butler, Johu Fisher, John 
Hough, William Bean ami Hauce Pietterson, of 
Pennsylvania and Delaware. 

Mr. Potts spent his boyhood upon his father's 
farm in Chester county, Perm., receiving his edu- 
cation in the schools of his neighborhood, and at 
the State Normal School in Millersville, l'onn. 
From 1857 to 1866 he taught school at Greenwood 
Seminary, Millville, Columbia county, and at the 
academy in Dowingtown, Penn. In 1866 and 1867 
he was principal of the public schools of Bellville, 
Ohio. From 1866 to 1877 he had an interest in 
the retail hardware business at Bellville, Ohio, 
and at Canousburg, Penn. He has held a num- 
ber of local offices. In 1867 he was mayor of 
Bellville, Ohio, and subsequently a member of the 
Bellville school board. At Canousburg he has 
served a number of terms as chief burgess, and as 
a member of the town council. He has served 
some thirteen or fourteen years as a school director, 
and since 18S8 has been a justice of the peace. In 
politics he is a Republican, and in religion a Pres 
byterian, being a ruling elder and superintendent 
of the Sabbath-school of the First Presbyterian 
Church of his adopted town. In 1870 he estab 
lished the first permanent printing office in Can 
onsburg, and in 1872 founded the Canonsburg 
Herald, which he edited and published until 1888. 
This paper, under his charge, was edited with 
great care and considerable ability, and became a 
power for good in the community. In 1888 he dis- 
posed of it to the present publisher. For many 
years he has been an amateur antiquarian and 
genealogist, and has collected a large amouut of val- 
uable family history of Pennsylvania and New York 
families. In 1877 he published " A Short Biograph- 
ical Sketch of Maj. James Potts," a small bound 
volume of about eighty pages. In 1883 he issued 
a " Bi-Centenary Memorial of Jeremiah Carter, 
etc.," containing about 300 pages. He has now 
in press a volume entitled " Our Family Ancestors," 
which promises to be a very valuable work to 
genealogists. It will embrace sketches of some 
fifty families, tracing each from the settlement of 
the first American ancestor. The material for all 
of these works has been gathered from original 
sources. He has been a corresponding member of 
the New England Historic- Genealogical Society 
since 1887, and has been president of the Canons- 
burg Library Association since 1880. Mr. Potts 
has attained some distinction in Fraternal societies, 
being a Past Grand and a Past Chief Patriarch of 
the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and a Past 
Regent of the Royal Arcanum. As an Odd Fellow, 
he has served as a deputy grand master of Wash- 
ington county, and has been a representative in the 
Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania many times. He 
has also been a representative in the Grand Coun- 
cil, R. A., of Pennsylvania. 



On March '22, 1860, he was united in marriage 
with Miss Mary Miller, daughter of Reuben and 
Sarah (Baker) Miller, of Chester county, Penn. 
Mrs. Potts can trace quite as honorable and nu- 
merous a lineage as her husband, being a direct 

< descendant of the following early settlers of Penn 
sylvania and New Jersey: Gayen Miller, Dr. 
Patrick Henderson, Jacob Kirk, Francis Hobson, 
Henry Mitchell, Richard Cove, Johu Stackhouse, 
Thomas Pearson, Thomas Stevenson, Samuel Jen 
ings. Joseph Baker, Richard Woodward, William 
Edwards, John Ingram, Henry Hayes, Thomas 

j Cox, John Buzby, Archibald McNeill, Richard 
Few, Francis Stanfield, John Bently. Joel Baily, 

j and others. Mr. and Mrs. Potts have had born 
to them the following children: (1) Reuben Claude, 
who married Clara B. Fife in 1882, and resides at 
Parkersburg, Penn.; (2) Thomas Pliny, now a 
theological student; ('■'<) William Baker and (4) 
Mitchell Miller, merchants at Canonsburg, and (5) 
Louis Maxwell, a student in Washington and Jef 
fersou College. 




\ILLIAM DENNEY, M. D., one of the 
established and most successful physi 
cians of Washington, is a native of the 
State, born in Jefferson, Greene county, 
October 28, 1851. 
John Denney, his great grandfather, came to 
America from England at anearly date, settling 
in Greene county, Penn. In his native land he 
was a tailor by trade, but in this country he fol- 
lowed agricultural pursuits, and at the time of 
his death was the owner of a considerable estate. 
His son, William, grandfather of Dr. Denney, 
married Elizabeth Blackledge, and some time in 
the "forties" they moved to Missouri, where they 
died of malarial fever. A brief record of their 
children is as follows: Enoch Harvey has special 
mention further on; Simon died in Missouri; John 
is a resident of Marion. Ohio; Benjamin is a prac- 
ticing physician in Waynesburg, Penn.; George 
also resides at Waynesburg; William died in 
Missouri; Hannah is the wife of a wealthy farmer 
named R. Colony, in Johnson oounty, Iowa; Mary 
is married to a Mr. Keefer, and lives near Monte- 
zuma, Iowa; Grace is married, and resides near 
Tiffin, Johnson Co. , Iowa. 

Enoch Harvey Denney, father of Dr. Denney, 
was born near Jefferson, Greene Co., Penn., in 
1820. By occupation he was a carpenter, cabinet 
maker and undertaker. In politics he is a Re- 
publican, for many years served as school director, 
and has been elected a justice of the peace six 
times. In 1880 he married Mary, daughter of 
Evan and Nancy (Fulton) McCullough, who lived 
and died on Castile run, in Greene county, Penn. 
The McCullough family have been prominent in 



196 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



educational matters in Iowa. The sisters Jane, 
Rachel ami Margaret organized and have since 
conducted Mount Pleasant (Iowa) Female Semi 
nary. Jane and Margaret are graduates of Wash 
ington Female Seminary, and Rachel of the Steu- 
benville (Ohio) Seminary. The only brother was 
Col. John Fulton McCullough, who. at the age of 
eighteen years, entered the United States army as 
a private in Company F, First P. V. C , but on 
account of Ids father's death, in 1861, received 
his discharge and returned home. In 1862 he 
organized Company A, One Hundred and Fortieth 
Pennsylvania Reserves, and returned to active 
service; in 1864 he was promoted to major of 
the regiment, and was afterward commissioned 
colonel of the One Hundred and Eighty -third P. 
V. I. He was mortally wounded at the battle of 
Cold Harbor early in June, 1864, and died on the 
field. To Enoch H. and Mary (McCullough) 
Deuney were born children as follows: William, 
Isabella (wife of David Bell, of Morgan town- 
ship, Greene Co., Penu.), Anna N. (wife of M. S. 
Sm alley, president of the First National Bank of 
Hiawatha, Ivans.), and Evan M. , iu the employ of 
the Southwestern Pipe Line Company, at Morgan- 
town, W. Va. The mother departed this life on 
Christmas day, 1878, aged fifty four years; the 
father is still living in Greene county. 

William Denney, the subject proper of this 
sketch, received his primary education in and near 
his native village. In the fall of 1864 he went to 
Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, where he studied for four 
years in Mt. Pleasant Seminary, under the direc- 
tion of his uncle, Rev. E. L. Belden, who was 
principal of that institution. He then entered the 
Wesleyan University of Iowa, where he studied for 
about two years. Iu 1870 he returned to his na- 
tive town of Jefferson and engaged in school teach- 
ing, which vocation he followed in different parts 
of Greene county until 1876. He then entered 
regularly upon his medical studies which he had 
been pursuing during vacation in teaching, in the 
office of his uncle, Dr. B. W. Deuney, of Garard's 
Fort. Greene Co., Penu. He afterward entered 
Miami Medical College, Cincinnati, Ohio, in which 
he took the progressive course, and from which he 
graduated in the spring of 1879. In June of that 
year he established himself in Claysville, where he 
remained until December 1, 1891, when he moved 
to Washington ami lias since continued in the act- 
ive practice of his profession, in wliich he has met 
with gratifying success, being professionally and 
socially highly esteemed in the community. On 
March 3, 1881, the Doctor was united in marriage 
with Lucinda, third daughter of John and Sarah 
Bell, of Morgan township, Greene Co., Penn., and 
they have two children: John McCullough and 
Mary Bell. Politically Dr. Denney is a Repub 
lican, and has held various offices of trust. He 



served as supervisor in the Eleventh Pennsyl 
rania District, iu connection with the eleventh decen- 
nial census of the counties of Washington, Greene, 
Fayette, Beaver and Somerset. He is a member 
of the Americus Club of Pittsburgh, Penn., and in 
religious faith is a member of the First Presbyte- 
rian Church of Washington. Dr. Denney is prom 
incut Iv identified with the Masonic fraternity, be- 
ing a member of the lodge, chapter and command 
ery at Washington, Penu., and a member of Syria 
Temple, Pittsburgh. 



CHAMBERS, "JUDGE" JAMES C, one of 
the most esteemed and honored residents of 
Arnwell township, ranks among its first citi- 
zens. His grandfather, James Chambers, 
emigrated from the shores of "Green Erin" to 
America in the latter part of the eighteenth cent- 
ury, and in 1797 located iu Arnwell township, 
Washington Co., Penn., on Bane's fork of Ten- 
Mile creek. He and his wife died on the old farm, 
the parents of six children. 

James Chambers, sou of this brave old pioneer, 
at the age of eleven years emigrated from Ireland 
to Arnwell township with his parents, and two 
Inc. hers who came with him died on the farm 
where J. W. now lives. James learned and fol- 
lowed the trade of carpenter iu Washington bor- 
ough, and was here united in marriage with Mary, 
daughter of John Dodd, who settled ou the farm 
now owned by D. T. Morgan, aud owned a house 
where the Citizens" Bank now stands in Washing- 
ton. In 1803 he (Mr. Dodd) went ou a voyage 
down the Mississippi, and ou his return was shot 
by Indians. When he fell his horse ran with the 
saddle bags and papers, by which means he was 
identified as John Dodd. Mrs. Chambers died in 
November, 1814, anil Mr. Chambers afterward 
married Sarah Hastings, who died in 1867. Mr. 
Chambers was called from earth in February, 
lSti'^. He was a major in the militia, and more of 
a military man than a politician. 

"Judge'" James C. Chambers was born January 
II, IS 1 '2, in Washington, Washington Co., Penn., 
on a lot south of where the David hardware store 
now stands, and afterward lived ou East Maiden 
street. He grew to manhood on the old farm, and 
remained there until thirty years of age. His 
school privileges were of a very limited character. 
and in his case (to quote his own words) " pro- 
ficiency in the 'three It's' was the synonym for a 
'full-fledged graduate.' " On November 10, 1835, 
he was married to Miss Mary Hughes, and their 
union was blessed with nine children, as follows: 
Mary A. (married to T. J. Nichol), residing in 
Washington county; John (married to Martha 
Moninger); Margaret, deceased wife of John F. 
Terrel; Warren (deceased at the age of nine years); 



i 



■ 












-7 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



199 



Ellen, married to Richard Fitzvvilliatu, of Wash- 
ington county; Sarah, married to Joshua Dicker- 
son, of Franklin township, this county ; James C. 
(deceased in his ninth year); Clarinda (married to 
Samuel C. McLean, and living in Franklin town- 
ship), and William (who died in his twenty first 
year). In 1839 Judge Chambers removed to Mor- 
ris township, where he remained fourteen years. 
In February, 1854, he came to his present home in 
Am well township, where his wife died February 
27, 1891, at the age of seventy-three years. 

In politics Judge Chambers was for many years 
one of the most active men in the county, origi- 
nally as an uncompromising Whig, afterward as a 
member of the American party, and he was one of 
the "Committee of Ten " appointed to sit in conven- 
tion for the purpose of organizing the Republican 
party in Washington county. This convention was 
held in the ''Fultou House," Washington, March 
18, 1856, the platform being occupied by Whigs, 
Americans, and kindred others whose leanings were 
toward the Republican phase of politics. The 
president on this occasion was James C Hart, the 
vice-presidents being J. Clark Chambers, John 
Hayes, John Johnson, Francis Fitzwilliams, David 
Walker. T. J. Odeubaugh, Joshua Wright, VV. H. 
McNary and Samuel J. Crothers; the secretaries 
were: Craig Ritchie, E. L. Christman, Joseph 
Welsh and Thomas Miller. Of late years the 
" Judge " has practically retired from political life, 
but he never fails to assert his rights as an Amer- 
ican citizen at the polls. In 1866 he .was elected 
associate judge for Washington county, his official 
term coming to a close at the end of five years. On 
same date (1866) Judge Achesou was elected pre 
siding judge, and our subject is the only elected 
associate judge now living in Washington county. 
So highly satisfactory, and with such a degree of 
integrity and strict impartiality, had he discharged 
the duties of his responsible position, that at a 
meeting of the members of the bar and officers of 
the court, held in the court- room November 17, 
1871, resolutions were passed bearing testimony to 
the high regard in which the retiring judge was 
held. The proceedings were presented in open 
court, and Judge Achesou directed them to be filed 
and entered on record, as so requested in one of 
the resolutions. 

On the occasion of the eightieth anniversary of 
Judge Chambers' birth, about sixty of his friends 
gathered at his home, and as a token of the high 
regard he commands in the community, and sub- 
stantial evidence of the unbounded respect in which 
he is held, he was made the recipient of several 
valuable presents. 

The Judge, in 1S35, was commissioned a captain 
in the cavalry. He has been a member of the Dis- 
ciple Church fifty years, and has ssrved as elder 



in the same four decades. He is in the enjoyment 
of good health, and now. as his life draws near the 
close, he has the friendship and esteem of all who 
have been associated with him in his earlier years 
of vigorous action, as well as of those who have I mt 
recently met this honored hero of so many conflicts 
in which he has won the laurel wreath of victory. 
| Many of these facts have been taken from the records, 
and are known to be authentic. 



/ 



MURRAY.— This family in Washington 
county, of whom William M. and J. W. 
Murray are worthy representatives, is de 
scended from one of the Dukes of Athol 
(Scotland), a son of whom, Lord Murray, 
having become involved in a political conspiracy 
against the reigning monarch, was compelled to 
seek safety in flight. It was no easy task, however, 
to elude the vigilauce of his pursuers, especially as 
a price was placed upon his head, but friends de- 
vised a means of escape for him, novel if not risky. 
It is a historical fact that they placed Lord Mur- 
ray inside an empty hogshead, then headed it up, 
being careful to leave some apertures for the ad 
mission of air, carted him a considerable distance 
to a convenient seaport (where was, fortunately, a 
ship about to sail for America), got their "freight" 
on board, one or two of the friends accompanying 
'"it," and as soon as the vessel was well out to sea, 
they liberated the contents of the cask, and set the 
cooped up scion of a noble house on deck, once 
more a free man. Ultimately they reached the 
shores of America in safety, where the hero of the 
adventure was no more enquired after by the Eng 
lish Government. In this country Lord Murray 
married and had a family of children, but the 
names of all are lost except that of Nicholas, the 
direct ancestor, in America, of the subject of this 
memoir. This Nicholas Murray, who was a sea 
captain nearly all his life, married, in April, 1775, 
Temperance Bond, of Baltimore, Md., and the 
names and dates of birth of their children are as 
follows: Nicholas, April 16, 1776; Benjamin. 
October 8, 1778; Ruth, October 25, 1781; William, 
March 1, 1784; Christopher, October 26, 1786; 
Charles, March 7, 1792; Kizia, September 23, 1789, 
and Surah, December 11, 1794. The father of 
this family died April 10, 1812, the mother April 
20. 1828. 

William Murray, third son of Nicholas and 
Temperance (Bond) Murray, was reared in the 
State of Maryland, where he was married to Nancy 
Roberts, and their children were Samuel, Nicholas 
(professor in Washington and Jefferson College), 
Hanson, Elzy, Charles and William. At an early 
day Mr. Murray migrated to Virginia, and made 
a settlement near WestLiberty,Ohio county,, in that 



200 



WASHINGTON COUNT) 



State, becoming a prominent agriculturist. He 
was one of the first members of the Presbyterian 
Church at West Liberty, and in his political sym- 
pathies he was a lifelong Democrat. 

Charles Murray was born in Ohio county, Va. , 
in 1814, where he was educated. He was there 
married to Elizabeth J., daughter of William 
Reed, of that State, but a native of Scotland, 
whence he came when a young man to America, 
making a settlement in what is uow West Virginia, 
at that time a wild, uncultivated region. He there 
married Martha Ashinghist, of Washington county, 
Penn., and the children born to them were Ellen 
( Mrs. William Brackenridge), Nancy (deceased wife 
of Elijah Moore), Oliver, Elizabeth J. (Mrs. 
Charles Murray), Margaret (Mrs. James McMur- 
ray), William (deceased), Catherine (Mrs. James 
H. Brackenridge). Mr. Keed followed farming 
all his days, in which he met with success. He 
was a strict Presbyterian, and a member of the 
Three Ridge Church at West Alexander, Penn ; 
in politics he was a Democrat until the breaking 
out of the war of the Rebellion when he became a 
Republican. He died in Ohio county, Va., about 
1861, and is buried in West Alexander cemetery 
by the side of his wife, who departed this life in 
18(51. After marriage Mr. and Mrs. Charles 
Murray settled on a farm in Ohio county, W. Va., 
where they passed the remainder of their days, 
dying, the father January 10, 1860, the mother 
May 30, 1874, at the age of fifty-two. They were 
consistent members of the West Alexander Presby- 
terian Church, and in politics Mr. Murray was a 
Whig until the formation of the Republican partj r , 
when he enrolled himself under its banner. The 
children born to Mr. and Mrs. Charles Murray 
were William M.., J. W., Oliver E. and Hanson E. 
(twins, Hanson being deceased), Johnston R. (in 
Wheeling, W. Va.), Oliver E. (merchant in Wheel- 
ing. W. Va. ), Alfred N., Charles F. and Joseph 
L. (all three deceased), and Elijah T. (in Ohio). 

William M. Murray, a prosperous merchant of 
West Alexander, was born in Ohio county, W. Va. , 
the eldest son of Charles Murray. He was reared 
and educated on the home farm, and on August 
14. 1862, he enlisted in Company D, Twelfth 
West Virginia Infantry, and was then sent to 
the Shenandoah Valley with his regiment, where 
they fought in Sheridan's campaigns. They took 
part in the principal engagements, and were sent 
to the front at Richmond, where tbey remained 
until the close of the war. Mr. Murray then re- 
turned home. In 1871 he formed a partnership 
with his brother John, and they conducted a gen- 
eral store at West Alexander, for eight years when 
another brother, O. E. Murray, entered the firm; 
the latter soon afterward sold his interest to Mr. 
Valentine, who is now the partner of Mr. Murray. 



They have a large store, and are very successful. 
William M. Murray was united in marriage with 
Elizabeth, daughter of Alexander Ruth, and they 
have two children: Eva Belle and Charles Ruth. 
Mr. Murray is an active and valuable member of 
the Republican party. He and his family are 
members of the Presbyterian Church, to which he 
is a liberal contributor. 

J. W. Murray was born April 21, 1845, in Ohio 
county, W. Va., where he was reared and educated. 
On August 14, 1862, he enlisted in Company D, 
Twelfth West Virginia Infantry, his brother Will 
iam M. having enlisted in the same company on 
the same day. (William M. never missed a day's 
duty in three years, and he brought home the same 
gun he had carried out). This regiment was first 
attached to the army of West Virginia, and was 
stationed at Clarksburg, W. Va., whence it was 
sent to Winchester, Va. , where it participated in 
, the battle there June 13 and 15, 1863. The 
Union forces were driven back, and our subject and 
his comrades afterward took part in the battle of 
Gettysburg, July 1 to 3, following, after which 
they participated in all the skirmishes, etc., in the 
Shenandoah Valley, including the famous " Hun- 
ter raid." Whilecharging the works at Piedmont, 
W. Va. , June 5, 1864, Private J. W.Murray was 
wounded in the right arm, above the elbow, by a 
ball (which he still carries), in consequence of which 
he was incapacitated for duty for three months, 
at the end of which time he rejoined his regiment. 
On December 19, 1864, the regiment was trans- 
ferred to the army of the James, in which it served 
until the close of the war. At the siege of Peters 
burg, Va. , Mr. Murray was in the famous charge on 
Fort Gregg; was in the chase after Lee's forces 
when the latter were outflanked, and was present at 
their surrender. On May 0, 1865, the war having 
ended, he was mustered out of the service, June 
16, 1865, returned home and took up the Arcadian 
pursuit of an agriculturist, which he continued un- 
til 1871, when he entered into partnership with his 
brother William M.. in a general merchandise 
business ;it West Alexander, this county. In July, 
1891, he came to Washington, and entered into 
partnership with J. I. Carson as pension agents, 
also in real estate and loan business, and after 
April 1. 1893, the firm will be Rodgers & Murray. 

On August 14, 1875, J. W. Murray was united 
in marriage with Margaret, daughter of James P. 
Chambers, of Donegal township, and three chil- 
dren were born to them: James E., Arthur E. 
(deceased) and Alford L. Mr. Murray is a mem- 
ber of the Second United Presbyterian Church of 
Washington, Penn.; in politics he is an active 
Republican, and takes a live interest in every 
measure tending to the advancement of his adopted 
city and the county at large. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



201 




\INFIELD McILVAINE, of Taylor & 
McTlvaine, one of the prorniuent law firms 
nf Washington, is a native of Somerset 
township, born January 30, L856. He is 
the eldest sou of S. B. Mcllvaiue, a substantial 
farmer and one of the leading citizens of the easl 
cni pari of the county. His mother's maiden name 
was Catherine Hill, a very extended family name 
in the southwestern quarter of the county. Their 
other children are Arabelle, married to William M. 
Irwin, and now a widow; Ella Laverne, intermar 
lied with Josiah Thomas; Lena, U. G., Julia, and 
Edwin L. 

The subject of this sketch received his first edu- 
cational training in the public schools. Later lie 
attended Cauousburg Academy for two years, and 
in the winter of 187("> -77 taught in the public 
schools of Somerset township. In the fall of 1877 
he entered the sophomore class of Washington and 
Jefferson College, and in June, L880, was gradu- 
ated with honors from that institution. Previously, 
in June, 1879, he had registered as a law student 
with his cousin, now the Hon. J. A. Mcllvaiue, 
president judge of the Forty-seventh Judicial Dis- 
trict of Pennsylvania, completing his legal studies 
under his direction. The two years immediately 
following his graduation were spent partly on his 
father's farm, recuperating his physical powers, 
and partly in teaching. In the fall of 1882 he en- 
tered politics, serving as secretary of the Repub- 
lican County Committee during the campaign of 
that and the three succeeding years. At June 
term, 1883, he was admitted to the bar of Wash- 
ington county. In the fall of the same year he 
purchased from E. F. Acheson an interest in the 
Washington Observer, and from 1886 was manager 
of the paper. During all this time, he still took an 
active part in politics, and his paper was the rec- 
ognized exponent of Republican principles in 
Washington county. In October, 1890, however, 
he sold his interest in the Observer to his partner, 
Mr. Acheson, and, on January 1 of the following 
year, entered into partnership with J. F. Taylor 
in the general practice of the law, at Washington. 
In religion Mr. Mcllvaine is a Presbyterian, being 
a member of the First Presbyterian Church of 
Washington. On October 19, 1892, he married 
Miss Elizabeth S. Stewart, daughter of the late 
Galbraith Stewart, of Washington, and they now 
reside on Wade avenue. 



ICHARD WAUGH The Waugh family 

have been in Pennsylvania at least one 

hundred and fifty years, and came west 

~ from Adams and Cumberland counties. 

Richard Waugh was born December '■'>, 

1796, on a farm, now owned by W. W. Dinsmore, 




on the road from Buffalo to West Middletown. 
He grew to manhood on a farm now owned by 
James Hauna, near Independence. Mr. Waugh 
was a grandson of David Boyd, an officer in 
the war of Independence, whose thrilling 
story is mentioned in Crumrine's "History of 
Washington County." Throughout life he was 
noted for his energy and indomitable perseverance. 
In 1823 he married Eliza, daughter of John 
Moore, who owned 600 acres of land embracing 
what is now known as " Waugh' s Mill." Mr. 
Moore inherited part of this tract from his father, 
who bought it from Lawrence Vau Buskirk. 
Both Van Buskirk and his wife were killed by the 
Indians, the wife in 1792 and the husband in 1793. 

Immediately after his marriage, Mr. Waugh re- 
moved to what is now Brooke county, W. Va., and 
purchased from his father-in-law the old frame 
mill, one of the first operated in that part of the 
country. This mill stood just where the bridge 
reaches the south bank of Buffalo creek, after you 
pass through the first tunnel in going from Wells- 
burg. Some time before Mr. Moore had attempted 
to pierce the hill called "the backbone,'' for a 
mill race, but the enterprise was abandoned for 
some years. Mr. Waugh completed this work, 
and the race is used to this day, as it affords the 
best water-power in the county. He built two 
mills, each using a tunnel for a race, and, with 
these mills, he turned out as much as 10,000 bar- 
rels of flour in a year, besides manufacturing all 
his own barrels. He also did a large amount of 
country work. 

He was a man of enterprise, both public and 
private. He made, at his own expense, two tun- 
nels for the Wellsburg & Bethany road, both of 
which are still in use. By these works and the 
bridges he constructed, generally at his own 
charges, he greatly shortened and improved the 
roads of his adopted county. No man, before or 
since, in his section did so much for the improve- 
ment of the roads. More than half of his life was 
passed in Washington county, and, as much of the 
grain for his mills was purchased from the farm- 
ers in that section, he was well known throughout 
the county. The old mill books show that much 
of the wheat brought only 37i cents a bushel, and 
flour but $2.50 per barrel. Mr. Waugh was also 
a farmer and stock-grower. Although he began 
life in narrow circumstances, at the time of his 
death he was owner of more than 2,000 acres em- 
bracing some of the best lands in Brooke county. 
Part of this land extended from a point below 
Waugh mill for two miles along the pike toward 
Bethany. He also owned a steam flouring mill in 
Lagrange (now Brilliant), Ohio. He was an act- 
ive member of the Presbyterian Church, and his 
liberality is still remembered. He offered Dr. 
John McCluskey a farm of 100 acres if he would 



202 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



consent to settle as pastor of the Lower Buffalo 
Church*. It is said that he would make up what- 
ever was lacking in the pastor's salary, after the 
other subscriptions had been made. His death 
occurred at the early age of forty eight, and, when 
his career is considered, it is surprising to learn 
that for fifteen years before his decease he had 
been a confirmed invalid. He left the reputation 
of a conscientious, upright man and public-spirited 
citizen. 

Josei'h Wauuh, the fourth sou of the above, was 
born in Brooke county, Va. , in 1835, and received 
liis education in the common schools, West Alex- 
ander Academy (under Dr. John McCluskey), 
Washington College, and the Western Theological 
Seminary. He graduated with honor from college 
in 1857, and from the Theological seminary in 
1860; was licensed to preach by the Washington 
Presbytery in 1859, and ordained by the Presby- 
tery of Mississippi in 1800. For one year, until 
the outbreak of the Civil war, he preached near 
Natchez, Miss. His decided Union sentiments 
brought him North. He then taught two years in 
Washington College, ami two years in the Steuben- 
ville Seminary, after which he took charge of the 
Hollidaysburg Seminary, being its first principal. 
Sere he continued eleven years, and, with the as- 
sistance of his devoted wife, made it one of the 
leading institutions of its class in Pennsylvania. 
It is still a flourishing school. On account of ill 
health Mr. Waugh was forced to relinquish his 
educational work, and retired to a farm in Dela- 
ware, where for several years he was interested in 
fruit growing, and still reads the reports of the 
peach crop with occasional anxiety. 

The subject of this sketch married, April 12, 
1804, Miss Arabella S. Todd, sister of A. M. Todd. 
Esq. She was a native of Kentucky, daughter of 
the Ilev. Andrew Todd and Catherine (Wilson) 
Todd. Mrs. Waugh was a lady of unusual intelli- 
gence and accomplishments, whose life was marked 
by a special spirit of self-sacrifice and devotion to 
duty. As vice-principal of the Hollidaysburg 
Seminary, she made many ardent friends, and her 
character and noble life made themselves felt upon 
all with whom she came in contact. Fourteen 
years before her death she received injuries by be- 
ing thrown from a carriage. From these she never 
recovered, but bore her suffering with marked pa- 
tience and resignation, and continued her works of 
kindness and devotion to the very day of her death, 
which occurred January 21. 1892. In 1889 Mr. 
Waugh returned to Washington, Penn., and has 
since made it his home. He is treasurer of Wash- 
ington and Jefferson College, does some insurance 
business, occasionally writes for the papers, is an 
Independent in politics, and is suspected of having 
some leanings towards free trade. 



LONZO LINN has been for many years a 
professor in Washington and Jefferson Col- 
i lege, and is worthy of more than a passing 
■ the pages of this biographical 



1 

II — notice i 
f record. 

This highly esteemed educator is a native of 
Pennsylvania, born September 26, 1827, in Butler, 
Butler county. His father was Dr. George Linn, 
a prominent physician of Butler. He was a native 
of New Jersey, but removed in early life to Craw- 
ford county, and there lived on a farm with his 
widowed mother. When a young man he served 
as a soldier in the war of 1812, having taken the 
place of an older, married brother, who was 
drafted. Afterward he studied his profession, 
practiced for some time in Kittanning, but finally 
settled in Butler, where he was much esteemed as 
a good physician, and an upright citizen, taking 
an active part in all that promoted public morals 
and religion. He died in the prime of life in 1834. 
His wife was Elizabeth Gibson, born in Paisley, 
Scotland. She was a woman of great intelligence 
and force of character. After the death of her 
husband she removed to Allegheny county, in the 
neighborhood of Monongahela City, and there 
lived with her three children: Alonzo, Hannah 
(Mrs. Thomas Manown), and George A. She 
survived her husband fifty seven years. 

The subject of this sketch, prepared for college 
at Blake's Academy, in Monongahela City, and 
was graduated from Jefferson College in 1S4'.I. 
In his career at school and college he attracted the 
notice of his companions and instructors as a per 
son of unusual ability and great aptitude for the 
acquisition of knowledge. He was modest and 
retiring, but, notwithstanding, always somewhat 
prominent for excellence. After leaving college 
he entered the Western Theological Seminary, at 
Allegheny, and completed its course, and was 
licensed by the Bedstone Presbytery in 1854. 
From the seminary he went to the La Fayette 
College as tutor, served a year, and was promoted 
to be Adjunct Professor of Mathematics. He 
resigned this position, and for a short time was 
principal of an academy in New Brunswick, N. J. 
This again he left to enter upon a professorship in 
Jefferson College, in 1857. At the time of the 
consolidation of Washington and Jefferson Colleges 
in 1869, he removed to Washington, and here in 
addition to being a Professor he was made Vice- 
President of the college. In all these busy years 
he has maintained a uniform reputation as an edu- 
cator, as a teacher and a scholar. He received the 
degree of Ph.D. from his own college, and that 
of LL.D. , from La Fayette. 

On November 17, 1858, Prof. Linn married 
Rebecca E., daughter of Abram Fulton. Their 
children are four sons: George S. , a druggist in 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



203 



Monongahela City; Andrew M., a lawyer in Wash 
ington, and Harry H. and Charles F. The Linns 
and the Fultons for many generations have been 
Presbyterians, even before their forefathers came 
from the North of Ireland. 



J (AMES B. KENNEDY, register of wills for 
Washington county, is . descended from 
rugged Scotch ancestry, and is a grandson 
of David Kennedy, a weaver, who came to 
America from the "laud of the mountain and 
tin- Hood " in 1818, making his first home in his 
adopted country in Philadelphia. 

One of his sons, Peter, came, in 1826, to Wash- 
ington county, from Steubenville, Ohio, where he 
was first married, there being four children living 
by this union. Mr. Kennedy's second wife was 
Mrs. Frances (Anderson) Doyle, of Steubenville, 
whose father was a soldier of the Revolution at 
Valley Forge. She had one son by her first mar- 
riage, William J. Doyle, of Washington. By Mr. 
Kennedy's second uuion there are children as fol- 
lows: John H., deputy sheriff of this county; 
James B., our subject; Benjamin K., living at 
Steubenville, Ohio, in the employ of the Pennsyl 
v.inia Railroad Company; Peter (I., Margaret O. and 
Mary F., living at Washington. The mother died 
in 1S7<), at the age of fifty years, the father on Jan- 
uary 2, 1890, in his eighty third year, and was 
buried in Washington cemetery by Post 120, G. A. 
It., Department of Pennsylvania, of which he was 
a member. He was ;i most patriotic Union man 
at the time of the war of the Rebellion, and, al 
though aged fifty five years, his military ardor was 
tired to such enthusiasm that he enlisted in Com- 
pany K, Eighth Pennsylvania Reserves, and served 
eighteen months in McClellan's Peninsular cam 
paign. He commanded the company at Draines- 
ville and participated in the affair at Richmond. 
He was injured by a falling limb of a tree which 
was knocked off by one of the enemy's shells. 

James B. Kennedy was born in Washington, 
Penn. , September 6, 1840, and was educated at the 
common schools, which he attended until he was 
fourteen years old, when he was apprenticed to the 
printing business in the Examiner office, serving 
at this four and a half years; then, in 1859. he 
commenced to learn the trade of a bricklayer with 
James Hamilton, and was so engaged when the 
first gun of the war of the Rebellion was tired 
at Fort Sumter. On April 15, 1861, at a meeting 
of the citizens of Washington, in response to Lin- 
coln's call for 75,000 men, Mr. Kennedy was the 
first man here to offer his services to the Govern 
ment. He enlisted in Company E, Twelfth P. V. 
I., Col. David Campbell commander, and his first 
duty was protecting the Northern Central Railroad 
near Baltimore, Md. At the end of three months 



lir was discharged, and on August 31, 1861, he re- 
enlisted, this time in Company A, One Hundredth 
P. V. I. ("Roundheads"), of which he was ap- 
pointed fourth sergeant and was promoted to tirst 
sergeant. Mr. Kennedy took part in all the en 
gagements of his regiment up to and including the 
siege of Knoxville, when at the assault on Fort 
Sanders, November 29, 1863, he was shot in the 
neck and cheek and knocked off the parapet, being 
badly hurt by the fall. He lay in the hospital at 
Knoxville until March following, when his father 
came for him and took him home. He suffered 
much, and his life was in great danger, as erysipe- 
las had set in and he was quite blind part of the 
time; in fact he still suffers from the effects of his 
wounds. Being unable, on account of his hurts, 
to follow his trade, bricklaying, he resumed the 
printing business, and was given the position of 
foreman In the office of the Examiner, of which 
paper A. H. Ecker and David F. Patterson were 
editors; was afterward foreman in the office of the 
( Cumberland Presbyterian, a journal published at 
Waynesburg, Penn.; then worked on the Washing- 
ton Observer. On January 16, 1879, he was ap 
pointed mail messenger on the Hempfield railroad, 
making trips from Washington to Wheeling, and 
when the B. & O. Railroad Co. took that road and 
extended it to Pittsburgh, Mr. Kennedy's route 
was also increased. This position he held until 
the election of Cleveland, and, being a Republican, 
he resigned, as he believed that " to the victor be- 
long the spoils," and his health being much im- 
paired, he retired June 6, 1885. On November 8, 
1887, he was elected register of wills for three 
years, his opponent being A. C. Morrow, a Demo- 
crat. He was re-elected in 1890, to serve to Jan- 
uary, 1894. On October 15, 1867, he married 
Mrs. Sarah J. Martin, daughter of Josiah Raw 
h 'user, of Hartford county, Md., who died August 
14, 1892, aged eighty two years. This union was 
blessed with two children: Fannie H. , clerking 
for her father in his office, and Carrie B., who 
died in her seventh year. Mr. Kennedy was at 
one time assistant burgess of Washington borough. 
He was commander of W. F. Templeton Post, 
No. 120, G. A. R., Department of Pennsylvania, 
and is also quartermaster; he is a member of the" 
Masonic fraternity, and of the Methodist Protest- 
ant Church. On May 29, 1891, was unveiled, at 
Knoxville, Tenn., a monument to the memory of 
Isaac R. W. Garrettson and Aaron Templeton, 
two members of Company A, 100th P. V. I. 
("Roundheads"), who were killed at the time of 
the attack and repulse of the Rebels on Ft. 
Sanders, November 29, 1863. William H. Under- 
wood, present postmaster of Washington, Penn., 
and our subject were wounded at the same time. 
Ed Memard Post, G. A. R., of Knoxville, Tenn., 
performed the dedication ceremony, Mr. Kennedy 



204 



WA SUING TON COlhX TV. 



being the only surviving member of Company A 
who was present. 

John H. Kennedy learned the weaver's trade, 
and when the war broke out served draft notices in 
Washington county. He has been a deputy sheriff 
under Sheriffs Smith, Work, Hemphill, Lockhart 
and Cherry; also worked for a time with Sheriff 
George Perritt. Mr. Kennedy conducted a grocery 
business in the county for several years, also 
served as postmaster at Zollarsville for some time. 
Before the war he was a Democrat, but siuce that 
time he has affiliated with the Republican party. 
In religious faith he is a member of the Methodist 
Protestant Church. When a young man he was 
united in marriage with Minerva Cox, who has 
Iidi -lie him four children, viz. : John, Flora, Donnetta 
and Millie A. 



IiONATHAN ALLISON. Prominent among 
the foremost of Washington county's most 
ff J prosperous and progressive citizens stands 
^^ this well-known and highly respected gentle 
man. He is a native of the county, having 
been born February 3, 1828, in Chartiers town- 
ship, his ancestry being traceable to a family who 
left Scotland for the North of Ireland during the 
period of religious persecution in their native land. 
James Allison, grandfather of our subject, was a 
native of Ireland, whence he emigrated to Maryland, 
locating in Cecil couuty, and thence on October 26, 
1773, moved to Washington county, Penn., having 
purchased from Thomas Moffatt of Cecil county a 
tract of wild land in Washington county contain 
ing 560 acres. This tract Moffatt had acquired by 
squatter's right, and the first patent for same was 
made out to James Allison; the farm is now owned 
and occupied by his grandson. Jonathan Allison. 
Here the grandfather set to work to carve out a 
home for himself and family, and great were the 
hardships he endured and many the dangers he 
encountered in his herculean task of converting a 
forest wild into a smiling fruitful farm. Indians 
and wild animals were numerous and ofttimes 
aggressive, and many a night did this old pioneer 
watch with his trusty rifle for the bloodthirsty sav- 
age and not less ferocious marauding wolf. In 
fact, after his first visit to his tract of land the In- 
dians were so hostile that he had to beat a retreat, 
betaking himself to the " Forks of Yough," as the 
confluence of the Youghiogheny and Monongahela 
rivers was then called, but, in 1774, he returned to 
his new home in strength, some twenty families 
accompanying him. among whom were the Brad 
lords, McDowells, Parks, Scotta, etc. As a haven 
lor the families to retreat to in times of danger, 
they here built themselves a blockhouse or fort, iu 
which they lived one year, and then erected log 
cabin, so that they might have individual homes, 



and here they endured the many hardships and 
privations incident to pioneer life, and which were 
particularly distressing in the northern part of the 
county. The old frame house, built by James 
Allison in 1788 or 1789, is still standing in a* re- 
markably good state of preservation. 

James Allison was married to Miss Jane, sister 
of David Bradford, who was prominently connected 
with the •' Whiskey Insurrection " in Pennsylvania, 
and by this union eight children were born as fol- 
lows: William, who moved in 1834 to McDonough 
county, 111., where he died; James, for fifty years 
an attorney at Beaver, Penn., now deceased, but 
whose descendants still reside there; John, who in 
1834 went to Illinois, where his descendants are 
yet to be found; George, who was a merchant in 
Pittsburgh, Penn., where he died; Thomas, father 
of Jonathan; David, killed when a youth by kick 
of a horse; Mary, married to Rev. Mcllroy, of New- 
York City, and Rachel, married to Dr. George 
Craighead, of Washington county.' Mr. Allison 
was a very prominent citizen in his daj, having 
been associate judge of the courts of Washington 
county in 1781V 87-' 88, and in 1789 a member of 
the Supreme Executive Council at Philadelphia, 
during which incumbency he voted for the aboli- 
tion of slavery, the question having, in some con 
nection. been brought up in that council, and thus 
he became one of the first Abolitionists in the 
county. He was one of the first ruling elders in 
Dr. John McMillan's church in North Strabane 
township, one of the first Presbyterian Societies 
organized in the county. For years he was a 
trustee of Jefferson College, and strongly advocated 
the union of the two colleges, Washington and 
Jefferson. 

Thomas Allison, son of this honored pioi r. 

was born in 1780, in Chartiers township, Wash 
ington Co., Penn., where he grew to manhood on 
his father's farm, helping to clear it of timber and 
brush. In 1817 he married Mary, daughter of 
Richard Johnson, of North Strabane township, 
and ten children came to brighten their pioneer 
home, viz. : Jane (deceased), James (now in Char 
tiers township), William and Richard (both de- 
ceased), Thomas (in Chartiers township), Jona- 
than (subject of sketch), David and Joseph (both 
in Chartiers township), Uriah (deceased), and 
Mary (in Chartiers township). Of these, James 
served five years in Company G, One Hundred and 
Fortieth Regiment, P. V. I. ; he was made a pris 
oner at Gettysburg, anil held by the enemy two 
hours, but on account of his having rheumatism 
was released. The father of this sturdy family 
died October 21, 1849, at the age of sixty-nine 
years; the mother, who was a " mother in Israel," 
a thorough home woman, beloved by all for her 
many noble traits, passed from earth in 1884, at 
the patriarchal age of eighty six years. Mr. Al- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



205 



lison was a most exemplary man, hardworking, 
thrifty anil scrupulously conscientious. He was a 
prominent, member of the Presbyterian Church, 
and a trustee of the Ohartiers congregation. 

Jonathan Allison, whose name opens this bio- 
graphical memoir, received his rudimentary edn 
cation at the common schools of his district, and at 
the age of seventeen years entered Jefferson Col- 
lege, remaining two years, when, owing to the 
death of a brother, he returned home and engaged 
in farming, which he has for the most part fol- 
lowed through life. After his marriage he bought 
of William Hopkins a farm of 148 acres, situated 
about one mile from the place of his birth, and 
here remained eight years, when he purchased a 
part of his grandfather's old farm, from the An- 
drew Allison estate. Here it was that a hundred 
3 r ears ago, while excavating the land for drainage, 
grandfather Allison discovered the first coal found 
in Washington county, some of which he dug up 
for blacksmith's use, and sold at 25 cents per 
bushel, after hauling it many miles; but not till 
long afterward was it used for house fuel. Andrew 
Allison had mined coal for some time, not as a reg- 
ular business, however; but when in 1872 the 
Chartiers Valley Railroad was built, Jonathan Al- 
lison opened the mine on a large scale, developing 
it to its fullest working capacity, and sending the 
product to the lake ports, even as far as Chicago, 
besides supplying the borough of Washington and 
other places with the bituminous mineral. From 
1873 to 1891 he employed about fifty men at the 
mine, and shipped over a million bushels per an- 
num; but in 1891 ho sold the concern out to J. V. 
H. Cook & Sons, of Canonsburg, Penn.,and re- 
tired from the coal interests. In 18S7 Mr. Allison 
removed to the "Old Acheson Homestead," in 
Washington, where he now resides. On April 7, 
1857, Jonathan Allison and Margaret Gabby were 
united in marriage. She. is a daughter of William 
and Margaret Gabby, the former of whom was a 
farmer of Franklin township, where he died; the lat 
ter is still living in Washington borough, at thead- 
vanced age of eighty three years, in fair preserva- 
tion, but blind for the past five or six years. To 
Mr. and Mrs. Allison were born the following 
named children: Mary, deceased when a child of 
four years; Maggie, who died in Canonsburg, was 
married to William Dickson, of that place; Al- 
bert, a farmer in Chartiers township; Thomas, in 
the Citizens' National Bank; Edward and William 
(twins), the former of whom is attending the Med- 
ical College at Pittsburgh, the latter was drowued 
in 1881, when coming from school, by falling off a 
foot-log laid across a creek; and John, Ralph and 
Jennie, all three at home, attending school. 

Mr. and Mrs. Allison are consistent members of 
the First Presbyterian Church, in which he is a 
deacon. Politically he was a Whig, up to 1856, 



but since has been a stanch Republican. For 
twelve years he served as school director, being 
first elected the year he cast his first ballot; was a 
justice of the peace from 1872 to 1873, but re- 
signed in order to accept the position of represent- 
ative to the State Legislature to which he had 
been elected in the fall of 1872, and in which he 
served with eminent ability for two terms. 
Through some condition of politics, Hon. Mr. Al- 
lison was the only representative from Washington 
county in the State Legislature at that time, since 
when, however, there have been two. For a couple 
ill' years he was a burgess of Washington borough, 
during which period the town was greatly improved 
iu many respects. Mr. Allison was one of the 
original stockholders, in 188(5, of the Citizens' 
National Bank, and is now one of its directors. 



IiOHN P. CHARLTON, junior member of the 
I firm of Hart & Charlton, proprietors and 
\( \\ publishers of the Washington Democrat, was 
^^ born January 5, 1842, in South Strabane 
township, Washington Co. , Perm. His father, 
John Charlton, was reared to manhood in the Key- 
stone State, and was here married to Maria, 
daughter of Peter Grounds, a native of Germany, 
win i emigrated to America and made his home in 
the New World in North Strabane township, where 
he was a farmer and blacksmith up to the day of 
In- death. He was a Whig in politics, and in 
church connection a Lutheran: he and his wife are 
now sleeping their last sleep in Washington Ger- 
man cemetery. The children born to John and 
Maria Charlton were Samuel R., John P., Joseph 
G., William J., Henry, Mary, Margaret and 
Thomas J. Mr. Charlton carried on a general 
store in Washington for some time, and during the 
later years of his life followed the huckstering 
business, his residence being alternately at Wash 
ington and Canonsburg. He died in 1853, and his 
widow died at Canonsburg, January 27, 1S93, 
aged eighty-six years. She was a member of the 
Christian Church. 

John P. Charlton received his education at the 
common schools of the neighborhood of his birth 
place, and at the age of fourteen entered, as 
"devil," the office of the American Union in 
Washington, Penn., but after one year's experience 
there he found employment with Christman & 
Clokey, with whom he remained one year, at the 
end of which time he became a "typo" on the 
Washington Review. While in this last office, 
young Charlton, in 1864, warmed by a spirit of 
patriotism, laid aside the stick and took up the 
sword in defense of the Union. He enlisted in 
Company K, Third Pennsylvania Heavy Artillery, 
which battery was assigned to the army of the 
James, and was most of the time stationed at Fort- 



206 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



ress Monroe. While here our subject was detailed 
to work in the Government printing office at Nor- 
folk, Va. , where he remained nine months and then 
rejoined his regiment. He was mustered out No- 
vember 5, 1865, returned home, and after a brief 
rest resumed the peaceful art of printing in the of- 
fice of the ( umberland Presbyterian at Waynes- 
burgh, Penn. Coming to Washington, he worked 
on the Reporter, then under the management of 
Moore & Armstrong, for three years. In 1869 he 
was nominated for the office of recorder of deeds 
uf Washington county, and elected on the Demo- 
cratic ticket; at the end of the term he was candi- 
date for re-election, but was defeated. Mr. Charl- 
ton we next lind assisting in the management of 
the " Valentine House," a leading hotel in Wash- 
ington, Capt. Hugh Keys being then proprietor. 
In 1S7U he was appointed deputy sheriff under 
Sheriff William Thompson, which incumbency he 
tilled with characteristic ability for three years. 
In 1876 he was nominated for sheriff of Washing- 
ton county, but was defeated, and soon after the 
death of Mr. Thompson he took charge of the 
" Fifth Avenue Hotel" at Pittsburgh, in the capac- 
ity of administrator. After conducting this hos- 
telry nine months he returned to Washington, 
where he was employed as foreman in the office of 
the Democrat, at that time under the management 
of A. H. Ecker, who died in February, 1881. In 
June, same year, a partnership was formed be- 
tween our subject and Alexander Hart; under the 
firm name of Hart & Charlton, they purchasing 
the entire business and plant of the Democrat, 
which paper they still own and publish. 

On April 11, 1S6<), Mr. Charlton married Mary 
C. , daughter of John and Susan Wolf, and the 
children born to their union are named respective- 
ly John S., Susan C, Ella M., Gertrude and David 
M. Mr. Charlton's political predilections are ably 
and undisguisedly illustrated in the columns of the 
Washington Democrat. 



Ejn OYD CRUMRINE, one of Pennsylvania's 
prominent, men and whose name in Wash- 
') ington county is as "familiar as household 
words," is a native of the county, having 
been born on February ( .», 1838, in East Beth 
lehem township, on the farm first occupied by his 
grandfather in 1800. He was a son of Daniel 
and Margaret Crumrine, and, as will be presently 
seen, with the exception of a great grandfather on 
the maternal side, who was an Englishman, George 
Bex by name, his blood is all German, from the 
upper Rhine. 

From 1682 to 177(5 Pennsylvania was the cen 
tral point of emigration from Germany, France 
and Switzerland. For the first period of twenty 
years, that is until 1702, not over two hundred 



German families arrived, and those settled princi- 
pally at Germantown and other localities uear 
Philadelphia. But the period from 1702 to 1727 
marked an era in early German emigration, and 
between forty and fifty thousand persons left their 
Fatherland. Queen Anne of England, desiring to 
till up her American colonies without depleting 
the British kingdom, caused copies of a book to be 
distributed throughout the Palatinate in Germany 
— having her portrait as a frontispiece, and the 
title iu gold letters, on which account the boob 
was called "Das Golden Buch" — to induce the 
Palatines to come to England in order to be sent 
to the Carolinas, or to others of her American col- 
onies; and it is said that in 170S and 1709 thirty- 
three thousand Germans left their homes on the 
Rhine for London. Of this large number it is said 
that seven thousand, after having suffered great 
privations, returned half naked and in despondency 
to their native country, ten thousand died for want 
of sustenance or medical attendance, and other 
causes, and the survivors were sent to America. 

In 1727, during the time of Governor William 
Keith, German immigration had so much increased 
that it was feared that Pennsylvania was becoming 
"a foreign country;" and a regulation was estab 
lished by the provincial government requiring that 
foreigners on their arrival should subscribe an oath 
of allegiance to the kingdom of Great Britain and 
of fidelity to the proprietaries of the Province. 
All persons over sixteen were made to sign this 
oath, and when they could not write, their names 
were written for them and attested by a clerk. By 
this means the names of over thirty thousand Ger- 
man and Swiss immigrants into Pennsylvania be- 
tween 1727 and 1776, when the colonies separated 
from the mother country, have been preserved 
These lists are still to be seen in the Department 
of State at Harrisburg, and the attention of 
one who examines them will be attracted by two 
things to be observed: (1) Every ship's-list of 
passengers, almost, was headed by the name of the 
pastor who was leading them as a nock into the 
wilderness; (2) Excepting a very small percent- 
age of the whole number, every name is written 
in German, evidently the writer's autograph, and 
generally in the clear hand of a good penman. 
From these lists I. Daniel Rupp made up his 
" Collection of Thirty Thousand Names of Immi- 
grants," published a few years since in Philadel- 
phia. 

In this collection of thirty thousand names there 
are but two " Krumreins." On September 11, 1732, 
"the ship Pennsylvania, John Stedman, master, from 
Rotterdam, last from Plymouth," landed with 
"seventy-three males above sixteen, women and 
children of both sexes ninety-eight, in all one hun- 
dred and seventy-one." In this list is the name of 
" Hans Michael Krumrein." On September 5, 1748, 



.^^i.Xjj. 



$ 




A_ 2^. 



"Ml F. SUTEIUNST CO. 



WASHINGTON COVN T ) 



209 



"the ship Edinburgh, James Russell, master. from 
Rotterdam, last from Portsmouth," landed with 
one hundred and twenty seven persons; and in this 
list of names is that of "George Lenhart Kmm 
rein." 

Hans Michael Krumrein, after having resided 
in the neighborhood of Philadelphia until after 
1741, passed westward into Northampton and 
finally into Centre county, where some of his de 
scendants still live, others having passed mi into 
Ohio. George Lenhart Krumrein went into Balti- 
more county, Md. ; afterward, perhaps, into Geor- 
gia, returning to Maryland at a later day. In 
1800 George Orumrine, a grandson of George 
Lenhart Krumrein, it is believed, passed from 
Baltimore county, Mil, over the Alleghanies into 
the valley of the Monongahela, and settled upon 
a farm in Bast Bethlehem township, Washington 
county. One of his sons, Daniel Orumrine, was 
born upon the same farm. He married Margaret, 
the daughter of -John Bower. Esq. The Bower 
family was of Swiss German origin, and came 
west from the Juniata Valley in 1796. 

The boyhood of Boyd Crnmiine, the son of 
Daniel, was passed upon his father's farm, and 
during the winters of 1854 -55 and L855 56 he at- 
tended the Bridgeport schools, Brownsville, Penn.; 
and in the spring and summer of 1856 he was a 
student at Waynesburg College. In September of 
the latter year he was admitted to the Sophomore 
class of Jefferson College, Canonsburg; and at the 
beginning of his second term he was permitted, at 
his own request, to drop into the Freshman class, 
in order that he might, lay a better foundation for 
a complete classical course. With that class he 
continued till his graduation, on August 1, I860, 
when he divided the first honor of his class of 
over fifty men with Mr. Roland Thompson, of 
Milroy, Penn., and delivered the Greek salutatory 
on commencement day. Through the whole course 
he was a diligent student and a vigorous thinker, 
doing nothing by spurts, producing level work and 
square work always, and striking the highest 
grade-mark in nearly every recitation. At the be 
ginning of the junior year Prof. John Fraser 
formed what he called his select class, embracing 
all the juniors who graded above ninety, to whom 
he offered special instruction in mathematics and 
general literature. The class consisted of Mr. 
Crumrino and four others, who met at night for 
two years in the Professor's chambers, where, as a 
reward for mastering a dozen extra volumes of 
higher mathematics, the privileged five were re- 
galed, often into the "wee sma ' hours," by the 
best thoughts and noblest sentiments of the man. 
who. as a teacher, stands without a rival and 
without a peer in the memories of his pupils. 
One year before graduation Mr. Crnmrine chose 
the profession of iaw, and entered upon it with 



Hon. John L. Gow, of Washington, Penn., as his 
preceptor, to whom he recited once a week during 
his senior year in college. The first year after 
graduation he taught a select class of young 
ladies at Canonsburg, continuing his law studies 
at the same time. On the twenty-first of August, 
1861, he was admitted to the Washington county 
bar. 

The war of the Rebellion interfering with his 
purpose to begin legal business in the West, in the 
following November he enlisted in Company B, 
Eighty-fifth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and was 
made quarter master sergeanl of the regiment. 
After spending the winter of 1861—62 in the 
trenches at Washington, he was discharged in or- 
der to accept a commission as first lieutenant in a 
brigade of Eastern Virginia Volunteers then form- 
ing, hut soon after his commission was received the 

Government issued an order discontinuing all re- 
cruiting service and disbanding all uncompleted or- 
ganizations. This made him a citi/en again; and, 
returning home he opened, iii May. 1862, an office 
in Washington, Penn., and began the practice of 
law, in which he has continued ever since with suf- 
ficient business always on hand to keep him stead 
ily occupied. Of his own efforts he wrote to the 
class historian for the reunion in 1885: " I have 
tried to keep my little boat trimmed neatly, and to 
trim it myself and after my own way. My sole 
ambition has been to do as well as 1 could what 
has been set before me. The law, to me, has been 
a very jealous mistress, yet, as a relaxation and a 
mellowing of the lines of toil, which otherwise 
might have been hard to me, I have been a rider 
of hobbies, one after another, always with the res 
ervation of the liberty of changing them at m\ own 
will and pleasure; philosophy at one time, then 
entomology, the microscope, and, of late years, 
history and philosophy.'' 

In 1871 Mr. Orumrine compiled t lie "Rules of 
Court of Washington County;" in 1872-75 he pre 
pared "The Pittsburgh Reports," legal cases of 
the several State courts not elsewhere reported, in 
three volumes octavo. In 1S7S lie published 
" Omnium Gatherum, or Notes of Cases for the 
Lawyer's Pocket and Counsel Table," of which the 
edition is now exhausted. In 1882 he composed a 
large part and edited the whole of " The History 
of Washington County," a quarto of one thousand 
pages, small type, published by J. B. Lippincott 
& Co., of Philadelphia. 

Mr. Crumrine is a Republican in politics, but has 
never sought political preferment. His tastes are 
altogether literary and professional. He was given 
the degree of Master of Arts by Jefferson College 
in 1863. From 1865 to 1868 he was district at 
torney for Washington county, and in 187(1 was 
appointed deputy marshal of the United States for 
the Western District of Pennsylvania, to compile 



210 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



the Social Statistics of that district for the Ninth 
Census. After this temporary employment out- 
siile of his profession, in matters in which he had 
great interest, he confined his work to his practice 
until April, 1887, when, without solicitation on his 
part, he was appointed, by Governor Beaver, State 
Reporter of the decisions of the Supreme Court of 
Pennsylvania; and, accepting the appointment as 
one suited to his tastes and experience, he had 
published at the end of his term in May, 1892, 
thirty-one volumes of Pennsylvania State Reports, 
which seem to meet with the approval of the bench 
and bar of the State Secretary of State Charles 
VV. Stone, in response to a letter concerning these 
reports, wrote in 1889 as follows: " Mr. Crumrine 
is making a model reporter, and his work is held in 
very high estimation by the bench and bar 
throughout the State. He is improving the style 
and methods of reporting, and is exceedingly faith- 
ful and piinstaking in his work. The profession 
generally appreciates this fact, and also the 
promptness in the publication of his reports, and 
their improved typographical execution. You can- 
not speak too highly of his official efficiency." He 
has also been the recipient of many other well 
merited compliments, written and verbal, from 
members of both bench and bar, of all phases of 
politics, which it would be superfluous to here re 
iterate. Indefatigable in his work, he is a lover 
of it. In the winter of 1891-92, when Mr. Crum- 
rine' s name was presented to President Harrison 
for an appointment as United States district judge 
for the Western District of Pennsylvania, among 
many letters in his favor from judges and lawyers 
of the State, the justices of the Supreme Court 
joined in a letter to the President which was such as 
t > make Mr. Crumrine feel more than comfortable, 
even when he failed to receive the desired appoint- 
ment. At the general election in November, 1891, 
be was chosen a member of the constitutional con 
vention, provided for by the act of the General As- 
sembly of Pennsylvania passed June 19, 1891. 
However, a majority of the electors of the State 
voting against the convention, it was not held. At 
the date of this writing his name is being men- 
tioned as a candidate for the office of Judge of the 
Supreme Court. 

On the day following that on which he was made 
a Bachelor of Arts, Mr. Crumrine was married to 
.Miss Harriet J., daughter of George A. and Jane 
I!. Kirk, and they have had four children: Ernest 
Ethelbert, Louisa Celeste, Roland Thompson and 
Hattie J. Of these, Ernest E. is a graduate of 
Washington and Jefferson College, and is partner 
in his father's law office; his wife is Gertrude, 
the daughter of Rev. Dr. J. F. Magill, of Fairfield, 
Iowa, and they have one child, a son. Louisa was 
educated at the Washington Female Seminary, 
and is now the wife of J. P. Patterson, Esq., of 



the Pittsburgh bar; they have one child, a daugh 
ter. Roland T. and Hattie J. both died young. 
Mr. Crumrine is stalwart in form, turning the 
scales at over two hundred pounds, and is as tine 
a specimen of physical manhood as the eye needs 
wish to look upon. 

[The l'oren'i>iim; sketch is lor the most part compiled 
from "A Biographical Allium of Prominent IVimsylva 
nians," published at Philadelphia in 1889. 



J (OSEPH RANKIN McLAIN, a citizen of 
Claysville, was born January 8, 1828, in 
J Cross Creek township, Washington Co.,Penn., 

a son of Wiiliam and Margaret (McClelland) 

McLain. 
The family are of Scotch-Irish descent, the 
great-grandfather, William, having come to this 
country from the North of Ireland at a very early 
day, settling in Adams county, Penn. Two of his 
sons, who were civil engineers, assisted in locating 
the dividing line between Maryland and Pennsylva- 
nia, and his son, John, grandfather of Joseph R., 
was born about the year 1740, in Adams county, 
Penn., where he was reared to manhood and edu- 
cated. When he had reached maturity he set out 
for the then " Far West," arriving finally about 
the year 1770, in Washington county. Here he 
married Hannah Marshall, of that county, after 
which they at once made their home on a farm near 
Canonsburg, where they remained some few years. 
The children born to this pioneer couple were: Jo- 
seph (who was in the service of the Government 
for the suppression of the Whiskey Insurrection, 
and died in the service), Mary (Mrs. John Rankin), 
William, Hannah (Mrs. John Hayes), and John. 
The father of this family died when he was yet a 
comparatively young man. He and his wife were 
members of the Presbyterian Church. 

William McLain, their second son, was born in 
Chartiers township, this county, June 23, 1779, 
and was reared to manhood in that township. He 
was a great lover of books, and, although he had 
no school facilities (the death of his father impos 
ing on him hard work on the farm from early boy- 
hood), yet, by close application to study, he overcame 
what appeared to many insurmountable difficul- 
ties. At the age of nineteen he commenced teach 
ing, continuing in same for thirty years, and prov- 
ing himself at once an apt scholar and skillful 
teacher, besides leaving an impress on his scholars 
not readily forgotten. On March 4, 1800, he was 
married to Agnes Fink, who bore him two children: 
John, born December 21, 1806, and Samuel A. (who 
became a minister of the Gospel), born July 23, 
1808. John lived with his father until 1S46, when 
he bought a farm in East Finley township, and 
resided there until his death, March 13, 1890; he 
was a zealous worker in the Church, and gave 



WASHINGTON COIW IV 



211 



liberally toward its support. The mother of this 
little family dying August 21, 1S0S, Mr. McLain 
married, November 7, 18] 1, Margaret, daughter of 
Thomas McClelland, of this county, and to this 
union the following children were born: Agnes 
(now the deceased wife of James Sawhill, also de- 
ceased), born August 8, 1812; Hannah (now de- 
ceased wife of Ira Blanchard, also deceased), 
born January 14, 1814; Mary, born November 1, 
1816; Martha (deceased wife of Rev. Alexander 
McCarrolI, D. D., also deceased), born September 
21, 1818; Thomas (deceased in childhood); Mar 
garet (Mrs. Robert McKahan), born February I 5, 
1822; William (died in childhood); Eliza J. (de- 
ceased wife of James Wright, also deceased), born 
February 11, 1820, died July 10, 1857; Joseph 
R. (subject of this sketch), and Sarah (widow of 
of Hon. A. K. Craig, deceased), born December 7, 
1830. Mr. McLain remained in Chartiers town 
ship until 1817, whin In- removed to Cross Creek 
township, then in 1830 purchased a farm in Buf- 
falo township, on which he made his home until 
1866, in which year he removed to Claysville. 
where he died March 2, 1872, at the patriarchal age 
of ninety-three years; on April 1, 1875, his wife 
followed him to the grave. In politics Mr. McLain 
was a Democrat until 1828, when he became a 
Whig, remaining so until 1850, and then voted the 
Free soil ticket until 18(50, after which he was a 
stanch Republican until the day of his death. For 
many years he was a justice of the peace. He and 
his family were adherents of the Presbyterian 
Church, of the Session of which he was a member 
for forty years. 

Joseph R. McLain received a liberal education 
at the schools of his locality, and was reared to the 
practical life of a farmer. On November 27, 1849, 
he was married to Susanna, daughter of James 
Ralston, and to this union the following named 
children were born: Luretta Mary (deceased 
wife of John M. Gamble), W. J. E. , Maggie (wife 
of Dr. J. N. Sprowls), John A., Joseph M. (now 
deceased), David C, Susan, Rebecca, and George 
W. Mr. McLain resided in Buffalo township from 
1830 until 1856; then moved to Claysville, but 
two years thereafter purchased the home farm in 
Buffalo township, to which he removed, remaining 
there until 1866, when he bought a farm in 
Donegal township, and there he had his home 
until 1872, in which year he came to Claysville, 
where he is yet residing. After this he was 
engaged in the general mercantile and-wool busi- 
ness until his retirement in 1888. When about 
the age of seventeen years, he commenced teach- 
ing school, in which he continued eighteen con- 
secutive winter terms. 

Mr. McLain, in politics, was first a Whig, and 
since the formation of the party has been an active 
Republican. He has been elected to and served 



in various important offices. In 1867 he was 
elected a jury commissioner of the county, holding 
the position one term; in ls7i> he was elected to 
the Lower House of the State Legislature, serv- 
ing in the sessions of 1S77-78. In 1878 he was 
again a candidate, but was defeated by Fiuley 
Patterson, by fourteen votes. In 1886 he was 
elected to the State Senate, serving four years. 
He was a school director for Buffalo and Donegal 
townships and the borough of Claysville. Mr. 
McLain and his family are members of the Pres 
byterian Church, and since 1883 he has been a 
member of the Session of the Claysville Presby 
terian Church. 



J j HOWARD CRAMER, editor and proprietor 
of The Enterprise- Call, Burgettstown, is 

|l| a sou of E. V. and Susan (Weight) Cramer, 
--^ and was born June 8, 1856, at Spruce Creek, 
Huntingdon Co. , Perm. 

The history of the family, of which this gentle 
man is a conspicuous and honored member, began 
with Isaac Cramer, who was born near Millville, 
Gloucester Co. , N. J., in 1786. He was the sec- 
ond child in a large family, and was of English 
descent, his father having emigrated to this coun- 
try some time before, the exact date not now be- 
ing known; but, at any rate, there is evidence that 
he served as a soldier in the American army dur- 
ing the Revolutionary war. In 1807 Isaac Cramer 
married Mary Van Eman, who was born in 1783, 
a daughter of John Van Eman, a farmer, also of 
Millville, N. J. Her parents had emigrated to 
this country from Wales. After marriage Mr. 
Cramer learned the trade of an iron raolder. He 
was drafted and served through the war of 1812, 
and after the close of that struggle he moved to 
Cumberland county, N. J. In 1832 he went to 
Lancaster county, Penn., fourteen miles southeast 
of Lancaster city. Ten children were born to Mr. 
and Mrs. Cramer, of whom the following is a brief 
record : 

(1) Wilson was born in 1809; married Roxanna 
Speelman, in Monmouth county, N. J.; they emi- 
grated to Lancaster county, Penn., a year or two 
later, and in 1843 located in the neighborhood of 
Johnstown. Eleven children were born to them, 
a majority of whom and their descendants are still 
living in that locality; two sons were badly wounded 
in the Civil war. (2) Eliza Ann was born in 1811, 
and married Isaiah Hopkins in 1826. They after- 
ward settled in Jefferson county, Penn.; fourteen 
children were born to their marriage. (3) Luke, born 
1813, was married, in 1834, to Eliza Trimble, of 
Lancaster county, by whom he had eleven chil- 
dren; their descendants are now living in that 
neighborhood; two sons were killed in the war of 
the Rebellion. (4) Isaac, born 1815, married in 



212 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1837, Rebecca Hunt, of Lancaster county; moved 
to Philadelphia, where they lived and died; they 
had three children. (5) Mary, born in 1817, mar 
ried in 1835, William Stimeatts, of Cumberland 
county, N. J., and they settled in Maryland, near 
Sykesville; they had seven children. (6) Sarah, 
born 1819, married, 1835, William Holland, of 
Virginia; moved to Virginia where they lived a 
number of years, and finally returned to Pennsyl- 
vania, and settled near Reading; five children 
were born to them. (7) Eli V., born in 1821, will 
have special notice further on in this sketch. (8) 
Joseph, burn in 1823, married about 1846, Eliza- 
beth Garner, of Lancaster county, and moved to 
Baltimore, but at the outbreak of the Civil war 
they returned to Pennsylvania anil settled near 
Reading; they had three children. (9) David. 
born in 182."), was married in 1848 to Mary Harri- 
son, of Philadelphia; they settled in that city. 
The funnel- is still living there; Mrs. Cramer hav- 
ing been dead a number of years; their family 
consisted of three children, two of whom are now 
living. (10) Isaiah, born in 1827, married, about 
1850, Elizabeth Gray, of Philadelphia; they also 
live in Philadelphia; two children were born to 
them. Isaac Cramer, Sr., the father of this fam- 
ily, died at the home of his son, Eli V., in 1857, 
aged seventy-one years; Mrs, Cramer passed away 
three years before at the same age. 

Eli V. Cramer, born in 1821, was married, in 
1855, tn Susan Weight, at Spruce Creek, Penn., 
who died in 1865. She was the second of nine 
children born to John H. and Barbara (Zimmer- 
man) Weight, both Germans. John H. Weight 
was the eldest of four brothers and several sisters. 
His father came from Germany and settled in 
Berks county, Penn., where John H. was born in 
1807; he died at Altoona, Penn., in 1887. In 
1866 Mr. Cramer married, for his second wife, 
Mary J. Stein, eldest daughter of Richard and 
Jane Stein, of Blair county, Penn. By his two 
wives Mr. Cramer had seventeen children — live 
by the first and twelve by the second. He is now 
living at Grant, Indiana Co., Penn. Mr. Cramer 
was an active participant in the two Know-Nothing 
riots in Philadelphia. In 1847 he enlisted as a 
recruit to the regular troops, and served for six- 
teen months in the Mexican war, in Gen. Scott's 
army. During the invasion of Pennsylvania by 
the rebels in the Civil war, he went out at the call 
of Gov. Curtin, and remained until the critical 
period was past, but saw no active service. Those 
of his children who have arrived at maturity are: 
J. Howard, the subject proper of this memoir; 
Wilson T., a farmer, married and living in 
Huntingdon county, Penn. ; Mary and Martha 
(twins) (Mary is the wife of Maldon Cryder, a 
clothing merchant of Tyrone, Penn.; Martha is 
married to E. L. Butler, of Altoona); Harry, an 



iron molder, is married to Amanda King, and they 
are living at Grant, Penn. ; R. H. is a printer in 
Burgettstown, Penn. ; Jesse H. is a printer in 
Pittsburgh, Penn.; W. A., a lumberman, and 
Victor E., an iron molder, are both living at the 
paternal home. It will be noted that this family 
has been represented in all the wars of this country 
since the emigration of the regular stock. The 
great-grandfather of the present generation was in 
the Revolutionary war; the grandfather in the war 
of 1812; E. V. in the Mexican war. and a number 
of the present generation in the war of the Rebell- 
ion. Isaiah also served in the Civil war, and ex 
perienced the horrors of Libby Prison. A singular 
fact in the history of the family is that the seven 
sons of Isaac Cramer, Sr. , were iron molders, and 
the three daughters married iron molders. It will 
also be observed that they literally obeyed the 
Scriptural injunction to "Multiply and replenish 
the earth." 

J. Howard Cramer, at the age of eighteen, com 
menced to learn the printing trade in the office of 
The Times, Curwensville, Penn., afterward finish- 
ing same in the office of the Raftsman's Journal, 
at Clearfield, same State. In 1870 he moved to 
Pittsburgh, and worked for a while in the job print 
ing establishment of Myers, Shinkle & Co ; then 
went to Mansfield, Penn., and worked in The Item 
office for nearly two years. The proprietor of The 
/tiiii, C. Knepper, had established a monthly paper 
at Burgettstown, named The Enterprise, and in 
August, 1881, sold it to Mr. Cramer, who immedi- 
ately commenced the publication of a weekly edi- 
tion. On January 1, 1888, Mr. Cramer bought 
The Call from M. R. Allen, and consolidated the 
two journals under the name of The Enterprise- 
full, which is now a widely-read and prosperous 
paper. In 1S82 J. Howard Cramer was united in 
marriage with M. Jennie Row, of Clearfield, Penn., 
daughter of S. J. Row, who for thirty years was 
the editor and proprietor of the Raftsman's Jour- 
nal, the Republican organ of Clearfield county. 
To Mr. and Mrs. Cramer have been born four chil- 
dren, viz.: Amelia S., Ruth R., E. Kate (dead) 
and Charles H. Cramer. 



rPY EV. HENRY WOODS, D. D. This well- 
Iwf' known educationist is a native of Mis- 

\ \\ sour '' ' )0rn ' n Marion county, July 2, 1838. 
J) -^ He is of Irish descent, his great great 
v grandfather having emigrated from his 

native land. Ireland, to America, making, in 1730, 
a settlement in Chester county, where he carried 
on farming. 

Andrew Woods, great-grandfather of our sub 
ject, was born, reared and married in Chester 
county, whence he moved to Virginia, where he 
died. Two of his children were named Andrew 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



213 



and Archibald, of whom Andrew was born in Bote 
tourt county, Va. , near Charlottesville, and re- 
ceived his education at the public schools of the 
period, When a young man, he left the paternal 
roof and made a settlement in Wheeling (now in 
West Virginia), at that time a fort and trading 
post, and for a number of years he carried on farm- 
ing. He married Mrs. McCullough (nee Mitchell), 
widow of Major McCullough, an Indian fighter of 
considerable repute. On one occasion, the Indians 
having succeeded in surrounding him, he made a 
leap with his horse over a precipice that has since 
been known as " McCullough' 8 Leap." The 
children born to this union were Jane (who mar- 
ried Rev. James Hoge, the pioneer minister of the 
presbytery of Columbus, where he preached for 
over half a century), Andrew, Samuel, Margaret 
(Mrs. Dr. Martin L. Todd), Robert, Alfred, and Ann 
(Mrs. Dr. Archibald Todd). The father of this 
family was a member of the First Presbyterian 
Church, of Wheeling, of which he was one of the 
founders and one of the first elders. In politics 
he was a Whig of the old school. 

Andrew Woods, father of Henrv, was born June 
17, 1793, in Wheeling, Va. (now W. Va.), and, at 
the schools of the place, such as they were a 
hundred years ago, he received a liberal educa- 
tion. In 1821 he was married to Rebecca, daugh- 
ter of James Brison, of Pittsburgh, and their 
children were James B., of New Orleans, La. ; 
Oliver, deceased; Luther, in St. Louis, Mo.; 
John, in San Diego, Cal. ; Archie, in St. Louis, 
Mo.; Andrew Alfred, in New Orleans, La. ; Henry, 
and Francis M., pastor of the Presbyterian Church 
at Martinsburgh, W. Va. After marriage, Mr. 
and Mrs. Andrew Woods removed to Belmont 
county, Ohio, where he was engaged in milling 
and farming for some years. In 1837, they first 
moved to Marion county, Mo., returned to Belmont 
county, Ohio, in 1839; but in 1844 removed to 
Missouri and there died, the mother in 1851, the 
father in 1873. They were members of the Pres- 
byterian Church. In politics, Mr. Woods was a 
Whig originally, but during the period of the Civil 
war he became identified with the Demooratic 
party. 

Rev. Henry Woods, whose name heads this 
sketch, attended school in his native State part of 
the year, and when fourteen years of age he entered 
the academy at Morgantown, W. Va. , where he 
rem ai nod throe years, and then entered the junior 
class of Washington College, from which he was 
graduated in 1857. After this he taught at 
Morgantown, W. Va., two years, at the end of 
which time (in 1859) he entered the Western 
Theological Seminary, at Allegheny, from which 
he graduated in 1862. He received the degree of 
D. D. from Westminster College, in 1879. Mr. 
Woods now entered the pastorate, his firpt charge 



being the First Presbyterian Church of Steuben 
ville, Ohio, of which he remained pastor for five 
years, or until 1807, when he accepted the profess- 
orship of ancient languages in Washington and 
Jefferson College. In 18(39 the departments of 
Instruction were rearranged and he was appointed 
to the chair of Latin. Professor Woods has ever 
since been connected with this institution, and 
partly to his untiring efforts is to be credited the 
high standard which the college has attained, in 
the classical department, among the prominent 
educational institutions of the country. On June 
15,1863, Rev. Woods was united in marriage with 
Mary L., daughter of Hon. John Hoge and Ellen 
(Blaine) Ewing, of whom considerable mention is 
made elsewhere. Seven children have been born 
to them, three of whom died in early childhood; 
the survivors are: Margaret, now a missionary 
in China, married to Rev. William B. Hamilton; 
Mary; John E., in Pittsburgh, and Frances H. 
For the past twenty two years our subject has 
served as pastor of the East Buffalo Church, in 
Buffalo township. In his political predilections 
he was formerly a Whig; but since the organization 
of the Republican party has been identified with it 



IfONAS ELY, M. D. , although one among the 
. I comparatively young men in professional 
frjj life, has reached an eminence for scientific 
^^ attainments as well as thorough scholarship 
that is attained by few even of those who have de- 
voted a long life of patient toil in the work of 
their profession. He is a native of Greene county, 
Penn.. born March 2, 1853, near Waynesburg, 
in Whiteley township. His ancestry were of Ger- 
many, from which country the great-grandfather 
emigrated at an early day to America; on the voy- 
age he was so ill that at one time he was thought 
to be dead and was about to be cast into the sea, 
when signs of life were discovered in him, happily 
in time to save him from a watery grave. Jonas 
Ely, grandfather of our subject, came to Washing- 
ton county from Berks county, Penn., when a 
young man, and followed farming and stock raising 
in Franklin township; he married a Miss Euphen 
Wilson, and they both died in Greene county, same 
State. 

George Ely, father of Dr. Jonas Ely, was born 
in Washington county, Penn., September 5, 1818, 
and was married to Mary Warrick, also a resident 
of Washington county. After their marriage they 
moved to Greene county, same State, where they 
made their home, having born to them seven chil- 
dren — four sons and three daughters. They were 
both members of the M. E. Church from early 
life, and were zealous, conscientious Christians. 
Mrs. Ely passed away December 29, 1887, aged 
sixty two years. She died as she had lived, leav- 



214 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



ing testimony behind that her work was well done. 
Mr. Ely in still Living, and has been one of the 
successful farmers and stock raisers of that county. 
He has more than an ordinary mind, and has 
characteristics worthy of example, always living 
up to the 'golden rule " He was frugal, indus- 
trious, patient ; ml upright in all his dealings. 
He lias tie' respect ami esteem of all who know 
him. A neighbor made the remark to an attor- 
ney, when riding past Mr. Ely's farm, that if all 
men were like him we would have no use for 
lawyers. 

Dr. Jonas Ely was reared on his father's farm. 
He received his education at select schools and 
Waynesburg College, studying all the branches re- 
quired there for graduation. However, from the 
age of fifteen his ambition was to become a fol- 
lower in the footsteps of Hippocrates and Galen, 
and all his spare time he assiduously devoted to 
the private study of medicine till 1883, when ho 
entered Cincinnati Medical College, from which he 
graduated in the class of 1887 at the head of his 
class. In March of that year he came to Wash- 
ington, this county, and commenced the practice 
of his chosen profession, in which he has been de- 
servedly successful. On December 25, 1873, Dr. 
Ely was united in marriage with Miss Elizabeth, 
daughter of Jacob and Jane Schriver, of Greene 
county, Penn., where the former is a successful 
fanner. To this union two children have been 
born: John R. and Tillie S. The Doctor has been 
a member of the M. E. Church since the age of 
sixteen years, and has been steward in the same 
for some time. 



J I AMES S. STOCKING. The family, of which 
this gentleman is a worthy representative, 
1 are on his paternal side of Holland Dutch 
ancestry who came to America at an early 
date, and on the maternal side are descended from 
"Mayflower" Pilgrims who established a settle- 
ment near Worcester, Mass. James Phillips, a 
lineal descendant of the latter, came in 1800 to 
Washington, where he died. He had several sons, 
one of whom, James, was in the Mexican war, and 
was killed at Pueblo. The father of these sons 
was the grandfather of the subject of this sketch 
Julius Stocking, father of James S., was born 
near Auburn, N. Y. , was educated at the sub- 
scription schools of his day, and learned the trade 
of weaver. In 1835 he came to Washington, where 
he was engaged in trading and speculating, but 
later moved to Rockport, Ind. In 1836 he was 
married to Mary, daughter of James Phillips, 
above referred to, and a native of Washington 
inty, Penn. _ To this union were born the fol- 
lowing: Alfred, now in Ohio; Mary, wife of Will 
iam Jenkinson, of the firm of R. & W. Jenkinson, 



in Pittsburgh; and James S. The father died in 
1870, aged sixty-eight years, the mother in 1874, 
at the age of fifty four years. 

James Stevens Stocking, the subject proper of this 
memoir, was born December 4, 1 83'-), in Washington, 
Penn. ; attended the public schools until twelve years 
of age, when he began to make his own living, 
but found time to acquire a good education by 
self teaching. At President Lincoln's first call 
for volunteers, for three months, he enlisted in 
Company E, Twelfth Regiment, Pennsylvania 
Volunteers, and served for the term of enlistment; 
re enlisted in the One Hundredth Pennsylvania 
Volunteers (" Roundheads") and served two years 
and eight months; re-enlisted as a veteran for 
three years, and served thirteen months, making 
in all full four years' service in the Union army; 
lost an arm at Hatcher's Run, October 27, 1864; 
entered the army as a private, and was mustered 
out as first lieutenant; was appointed U. S. store- 
keeper in 1871; was unanimously nominated by 
the Republican County Convention of 1872 for 
clerk of courts, and was elected, receiving 5,465 
votes to 4,818 for Samuel Ruth, Democrat, and 
running 171 votes ahead of his party's candidate 
for governor; was renominated without opposi- 
I ion in 1875, and re-elected, receiving 5,152 votes 
to 4,702 for W. C. Scott, Democrat, and running 
235 votes ahead of the Republican candidate for 
governor; was one of the editors and proprietors 
of the Washington Observer from October 17, 
1879, to October 17, 1882, when he sold his inter- 
est, in the paper on account of ill health; was ap- 
pointed postmaster at Washington by President 
Arthur in February, 1885, and served twenty 
months, when he was removed for being a Repub- 
lican; was nominated and elected to the Assembly 
in 1888; re-nominated an re-elected in 1890, as a 
Republican. On November 1, 1891, without solici 
tation, he was offered and accepted the position of 
assistant chief and superintendent of the seed 
room in the Seed Division of the Agricultural De- 
partment at Washington, D. C, where at present 
he is located. 

On January 4, 1866. Mr. Stocking was married 
to Miss Elizabeth Hallam, of Washington, Penn. , 
a sister of the well known Hallam Bros., and she 
bore him three children: Hugh, Harry (deceased) 
and Maud, and died of smallpox February 2, 1881. 
On March 17, 1883, our subject married Mary 
Josephine, daughter of James Robinson, of Co- 
shocton, Ohio, and great granddaughter of Gen. 
Robinson, of Revolutionary fame, who made a 
settlement in the Muskingum Valley, where he 
took up a U. S. grant of 3,000 acres; he was 
captured by Indians, made to run the gauntlet, 
and was actually tied to the stake to be burned 
alive, when he was rescued by Logan, the Mingo 
chief. At the age of twenty-four Mr. Stocking 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



■2 1 -i 



lost his arm, as above related, and in his twenty- 
fourth year his son, Hugh, lost his left arm by be- 
ing caught in a power printing press. In 1884 
Mr. James S. Stocking engaged in the real-estate 
business, and laid off an addition to Washington, 
Penn., known as "Kalorama." In 1887, iu con- 
nection with B. F. Hassun, Esq., platted and sold 
another addition, named "Woodland.'' In 1888, 
in connection with James Kuntz, Jr., L. McCar- 
rell and E. F. Acheson, he platted and sold the 
Weaver farm, uuder the name of West End, and 
in 1889, in connection with the same parties, he 
platted and sold the Sliirls Grove property. 
Woodland, West Eud and Sliirls Grove additions 
are now consolidated into a borough, and is known 
as "West Washington." 



FRANCIS HANLIN. The Hanlin family have 
for almost a century been identified with 
the progress and development of Hanover 
township. They have assisted in the ad 
vancemeut and support of the schools and churches, 
and all other enterprises which have served to place 
Hanover township in its present position with the 
magnificent galaxy of townships contained in 
Washington county, Penn. 

The present generation of this family trace their 
ancestry to four brothers, William, John, James 
and Alexander, who were children of Alexander 
and Nancy (Stewart) Hanlin, and natives of Coun- 
ty Tyrone, Ireland. The father dying in County 
Tyrone, the family, consisting of the widow, four 
sons and three daughters (Elizabeth, Nancy and 
Jane), came to America in 1792. Their first loca- 
tion was in Lancaster county, Penu., where the 
sons engaged in various kinds of employment. 
Energy and health formed their sole capital. One 
daughter, Nancy, was married in eastern Pennsyl- 
vania, and there passed her days. Between 1795 
and 1800 the other members of the family came 
farther west, locating on the waters of Buffalo 
creek, in Washington county, on the " Lawtou 
Farm." The brothers continued to work in part- 
nership until the begiuningof the present century, 
when James purchased land near Paris, Hanover 
township, this county, and followed the river, mak- 
ing; trips to New Orleans. He was married to a 
Miss Mills. William, John and Alexander jointly 
purchased, of one Charles Campbell, a large tract 
of land near Harmon's creek, in Hanover township, 
this county, to which they moved. William was 
affianced to Anna, daughter of John Fulton, of 
Hanover township, and his wedding day was set, 
but he died before the marriage was consummated. 
Johu Hanlin was born in 1771. in County Tyrone, 
Ireland, and in 1823 married Nancy Hanlin, a dis- 
tant relative, aud a native of Ireland. Her parents 
came to America, locating at Steubenville, Ohio, 



leaving their infant daughter with an aunt iu Ire- 
land, with whom she crossed the ocean when but 
two years of age. 

Alexander Hanlin was married in 1805 to Eliza 
beth Scott, who was born February 14, 1780, in 
Ireland, and when only two or three years of age 
was brought to America. Her father, Franklin 
Scott, was one of the first settlers in Jefferson 
township, this county, first locating there about the 
time of the Revolution. He was obliged to flee 
from the country to Irelaud, was married, and 
again crossing the Atlantic settled in Jefferson 
township, Washington Co., Penn., where he died 
After the marriage of Alexander Hanlin, the land 
belonging to the three brothers was divided, and 
he received the southern part of the tract, residing 
there until his death. He was a consistent mem- 
ber of the Episcopal Church, to which he contrib 
uted liberally, his wife being identified with the 
Methodist Episcopal Society. Although possess 
ing no property when he landed in America, by 
energy and toil Mr. Hanlin accumulated a good 
property. In politics he was first a Whig, then a 
Republican. He died at the advanced age of 
ninety years, his wife dying eight years before him, 
and they were buried in the cemetery of Tucker's 
Church. 

Their children were: Alexander, killed accident- 
ally by a cider press, born January 1, 1806; William, 
deceased in Carroll county, Ohio, born August 20, 
1807; Francis, whose name opens this sketch; 
John, a farmer of Hanover township, bom Feb- 
ruary 3, 1812; James (deceased), born Febru- 
ary 17. 1814; George (deceased), born March 28, 
1816;, Stewart, a miner (died in California), born 
March 2, 1818; Charles, a farmer of Jefferson 
township, born September 26, 1820.; Grant, a farm- 
er and miller of Hanover township, bom October 
28, 1823; and Eliza Ann (unmarried), born January 
30, 1826. The town of Hanlin, a station on the 
P. C. C. & St. L. R. R , is named from the four 
Hanlin brothers, one of whom was the father of 
this family. 

Francis Hanlin, son of Alexander and Elizabeth 
Hanlin was born April 16, 1810, in Hanover town- 
ship. He was reared on his father's farm, and at- 
tended the subscription schools of that period. In 
1839 he was married to Ruth Criss, who was born 
in 1821, in Hanover township, a daughter of Jacob 
and Hannah (Riteuhouse) Criss. To this union 
three daughters were born, namely: Nancy (Mrs. 
Pressly Boyd, of Columbiana county, Ohio), Han- 
nah (unmarried, living at home) and one daughter, 
who died in infancy. The mother died many 
years ago, and on November 20, 1849, Francis 
Hanlin selected as his second wife Betsy Lyons, a 
daughter of James and Sarah (Steen) Lyons. The 
children of this marriage were born as follows: 
Sarah (deceased wife of Samuel Jackson), Stewart 



216 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



(a fanner of Hanover township), Mary (Mrs. 
Frank Ferguson, of Colliers, W. Va.), James (of 
Irondale, Ohio, was one of twins, the other of 
whom died at birth), Elizabeth (Mrs. John Ste- 
phenson of Hanover township), an infant daughter 
(deceased), and L.'titia (deceased wife of Samuel 
Work). In 1845 Francis, Hanlin and his brother 
John purchased a part of " the Davis farm " in this 
county, which was divided, and the brothers located 
on adjoining farms, where they have since lived. 
Francis Hatdin has been a lifelong farmer, and 
has passed over eighty-two years of a most indus- 
trious life. As a result he has accumulated a valu- 
able property and is an extensive landowner of 
Hanover township. On July 6, 1890, Mrs. Hauliu 
passed away and was buried in Tucker's Church 
cemetery. For many years he has been a mem- 
ber of the Methodist Episcopal Church, in which 
he has held numerous offices. In politics he has 
always voted with the Democratic party. Notwith- 
standing his advanced age Mr. Hanlin is compar- 
atively a vigorous and well-preserved man. 




V. JOHNSON. Family Record.— John 
Johnston and his wife Elizabeth, of Coun- 
ty Down, Ireland, were Presbyterians of 
Scotch-Irish descent, and their children 
were: William, Esther, Jane, Margaret, 
Elizabeth, Richard, and John, the last named dy- 
ing in Ireland. They, with their six children, em- 
barked for America in the year 1772, but both 
died of fever on shipboard during the voyage. 
The children located in Delaware, whence in the 
spring of 17111 they removed to western Pennsyl- 
vania near Canonsburg. William married in 1774; 
Esther married Hugh Jackson in 1777; Jane mar- 
ried lames Hindman in 1780; Margaret married 
John Anderson; Elizabeth married William Camp 
bell; and Richard married Jane Bradford August 
23, 1796. 

Richard Johnston, son of John and Elizabeth 
Johnston, was born in June, 1703; married, Au- 
gust 23, 1796, Jane Bradford, daughter of James 
and Elizabeth (Gibson) Bradford; died November 
13, 1836; their children were Mary, James, William, 
Elizabeth, John, Richard, Jane and Thomas (twins), 
David, George, Nancy, and one that died when 
two wei'ks old. Mary, born September 24, 1798, 
married Thomas Allison, May, 1817, and died 
February 7, 1884; James, born March 10, 1800, 
died in 1819; William, born May .''», 1802, married 
Elizabeth Orr, May 10, 1826, and died December 
27, 1838; Elizabeth, born February 6, 1804, was 
married first to George Gladen, and afterward to 
Rev. John Stockton, D. D., November 19, 1861, 
and died July 11, 1892; John, born March <'>, 1806, 
married Rebecca Van Eman March 17, 1N40, and 
died October 9, 1888: Richard, born July 1. 1808, 



died in 1831; Jane (twin), born May 21, 1811, 
married Guiane Morrison, May 23, 1833, and died 
June 2. 1888; Thomas (twin), born May 21, 1811, 
married Catharine Johnson, lived in Steubenville, 
Ohio, and died June 19, 1879; David, born May 19, 
1813, married Jane Rex, February 9, 1841, lived 
in Steubenville, Ohio, and died February 8, 1883; 
George, born August 7, 1815, married Mary Tracy, 
August 25, 1847. lived in Portsmouth, Ohio, and 
died April 14, 1875; Nancy, born April 11), 1822, 
died in 1827. 

John Johnson, son of Richard and Jane John- 
son, was born March ('), 1806, married March 17, 
1840, Rebecca Van Emau, daughter of Joseph and 
Isabel (Logan) Van Eumii, and died October 9, 

1888. Their children are Richard Van Emau, 
born September 23, 1841, married West Anna Lee, 
November 17, 1869; Joseph Bradford, born Sep- 
tember 26, 1842, married Hannah Jane Crothers, 
June 5, 1867; John Gibson, born November 13, 
1845, married Annie K. Morrison, June 22, 1875. 

Nicholas Van Emau, of Emmen, Holland, mar 
ried Mary Wilson, of Wales, and their children 
were George, Nicholas, Andrew, Garrett, Katie, 
Mary, Elizabeth, Susan and Hannah. George 
Van Einan, sou of Nicholas and Mary Van- 
En an, was born September 12, 1753, and was 
twice married, first to — Little, their chil- 
dren being Mary and John; his second marriage 
was with Rebecca Scott, and their children were 
Nicholas, Scott and Jane (twins), Andrew, Rev. 
George, Rebecca, Elizabeth, Joseph, Garrett, Will 
iam, Sarah, Abraham, James and Hannah (twins). 
The parents lived for many years on the farm now 
owned by Joseph Clokey, situated four miles east 
of Washington, Penn. ; they are buried at Canal 
Fulton, Stark Co., Ohio; they were Presbyterians. 
Joseph Van Emau, son of George and Rebecca 
Van Emau, was born December 12, 1790, married 
Isabel Logan February 28, 1811, and died Sep 
tember 22, 1873; their children were Rebecca, 
James, Samuel L., Joseph, Mary, Rev. George, 
Cyrus, Margaret, Logan and Sarah. Isabel 
Logan was a daughter of Samuel and Rebecca 
(Walker) Logan, the former of whom came from 
Antrim, Ireland, when eighteen years of age; he 
was of Scotch-Irish parentage, and was a soldier 
under La Fayette, in the war of the Revolution; 
they lived on the farm now owned by C. C. Rum 
sey at Van Eman Station, Chartiers Railroad. 
Rebecca, born September 13, 1812, married John 
Johnson March 17, 1840, and died September 5, 

1889, and their children are Richard Van Eman, 
Joseph Bradford and John Gibson; James, born 
August 7, 1814, died August, 1819; Samuel L., 
born July 20, 1816, married Martha P. McCon- 
nell. September 28, 1847, and died October 11, 
1891; Joseph, born October 9, 1818, was married 
first to Sarah Lea, April 18, 1843, ami afterward 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



219 



to Mary A. Donaldson; Mary, born January 6, 
1821, married Samuel Alexander, January 24, 1860; 
Rev. George, horn January 29, 1823, was married 
first to Rachel Bowens, October 10, 1843, after- 
ward to Elizabeth Pogue September 8, 1847; 
Cyrus, born April 1, 1825, died January, 1828; 
Margaret, born December 26, 1826, married Israel 
Bebout, December, 1850, and died March 31, 186'J; 
Logan, born April 6, 1829, married Jane Vance, 
October 14, 1858; Sarah, born February 17, 1834, 
married Samuel Bebout August 14, 1856. 

Richard Van Eman Johnson, sou of John and 
Rebecca Johnson, was born September 23, 1841, 
married November 17, 1869, West Anna Lee, 
daughter of Maj. William and Jane (Craig) Lee, 
of Cross Creek, Penu., and their children are 
Rebecca Jane and William Lee. He lives at 
Johnson Station, Chartiers Railroad, on the farm 
formerly owned by bis father and grandfather. 

JOHNSON LEE GENEALOGY. 



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HARLES E. BEACH (deceased) was born in 
East Bloomneld, N. Y., January 31, 1819, 
a son of Chauncey, who was a son of 
Chauncey, who was a sou of Amos, who was 
a son of John, who was a son of John, who was a 
son of Thomas, a native of England. 

In 1639 there came from England three brothers 
— Richard, John and Thomas — who settled in 
New Haven, Conn., where Thomas, in 1654, mar 
ried Sarah, daughter of Richard Piatt, and of their 
children one sou, John, was born October 19, 
1655, and died in 1709. John Beach had one sou, 
also named John, born October 15, 1690, in Wal 
lingford, Conn., who in 1738 moved to Goshen, 
same State, where he died May 9, 1773. On 
August 8, 1715, he was married to Sarah Taylor, 
who died, leaving one son, Barney, and John Beach 
then married, February 22, 1717, Mary Roys, to 
which union one son, Amos, was born January 28, 
1724. Amos Beach married, December 21, 1716, 
Mary Rich, and their son Chauncey was born in 
Goshen, Conn., November 11, 1748, and became 
the grandfather of the subject of this sketch. 

Chauncey Beach received his education in his 
native town, and was reared to the milling business, 
which he followed many years. He remained in 
Goshen until 1801, when he removed to West 
Bloomneld, N. Y. , where he died May 13, 1 S25, a 
consistent member of the Presbyterian Church. 
In politics he was a Federalist originally, and dur- 
ing the later years of his life a Whig. On De- 
cember 24, 1772, he married Catherine Alvord, who 
was born November 21, 1750, and the following 
record of their family of children gives the names 
and dates of birth: Erastus, June 3, 1775; Olive, 
May 5, 1777; Lucy, October 6, 1778; Ambrose, 
August 14, 1780; Abram, May 12, 1782; Elisha, 
Juue23, 1783; Theron, July 9, 1785; Catherine, 
June 29, 1787; Chauncey, May 5, 1789, and 
Nathaniel, October 26, 1791. 

Chauncey Beach, father of Charles E., was bom 
in Goshen, Conn., where he received the earlier part 
of his education, and, as will be seen, was about 
twelve years old when his parents moved with their 
family to West Bloomfleld, N. Y. After leaving 
school he learned the trade of cabinet maker, but 
abandoned it to take up that of his father, milling, 
which, having mastered, he carried on in West 
Bloomfleld until 1836, when he moved to Parma, 
N. Y. , thence to Ohio, to a place now known as 
Kent. There he remained seven years, at the end 
of which time he went to Painesville; then after a 
few years he proceeded to West Cleveland. At 
the latter place he resided but six months, when he 
moved to Akron, and thence, after three years, 
came to Mouongahela City, all the time engaged 
in the milling business until old age compelled 
him to retire from active work. On August 19. 
1813, Mr. Beach married Matilda Eggleston, of 



220 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



West Bloomfield, who became the mother of four 
children, viz.: Catherine, born August 2, 1814; 
James W ., born October 2, 1816; Charles E., born 
January 31, 1819, and Cordelia, born August 29, 
1821. The mother passed from earth July 21, 
1866, the father May 19, 1870. He was a Whig 
until the change of the party was consummated, 
when he became a Republican. 

Charles E. Beach was educated at the public 
schools of his native town — proving a deep and 
diligent student. When a young man he entered 
his father's mill, and remained there several years. 
In 1S47 the family moved to Monongahela City, 
Penn., where he and his father bought the flouring 
mill, but in 1867 sold it, and then, in company 
with his father, bought an interest in the lumber 
yard and planing mill iu Monongahela City, now 
owned by Blythe & Co. On account of poor 
health he sold his interest in 1876, and retired from 
business. On September 23, 1858, he married 
Emma Pierce, and the children by that union were 
Matilda E., M. Edith and Amanda S., of whom 
the first and last named are deceased. The 
mother of these children died January 1, 1866, and 
March 29, 1870, Mr. Beach was married to Eliza- 
beth, daughter of Thomas Heslep. One child, 
Nellie, was born to them. Our subject was a 
stanch Republican in his political views, and was 
recognized as a leading and enterprising man in the 
community. His widow is still a resident of Mo- 
nongahela City. 

Thomas Heslep, father of Mrs. Elizabeth Beach, 
was born iu Chester county, Penn., in 1801, a son 
of John Heslep, a native of the same county, who 
married a Miss Grant, and had by her several 
children, of whom the following names are obtain- 
able: Robert, John, George and Thomas. John 
Heslep came to Washington county at an early day, 
and purchased a farm in Carroll township where 
he died. He was a Whig in politics, and in Church 
connection a Baptist. Thomas Heslep was reared 
partly in Washington county, partly in Pittsburgh. 
He married Margaret MeCormick, of Pigeon Creek, 
and they then settled on a farm in Somerset town 
ship, where he died in 1860; his wife is also dead. 
He had two children. Elizabeth (Mrs. Charles E. 
Beach) and John. Mr. Heslep was first a Whig, 
afterward a Republican, and in church connection 
he was a sound Presbyterian. 



DR. W. H. ALEXANDER, a rising young 
physician of Washington county, is a grand- 
son of Joseph Alexander, whose father, 
Samuel, was born in Ireland, whence, iu 
17(53, he emigrated to America, locating at Chadd's 
Ford, Chester Co. , Penn. He was married to a 
Miss Wilson, who bore him three children, and in 
1785 they moved to Allegheny county, same State. 



He patented 360 acres of land, lying two miles 
from Bridgeville, Penn., and both he and his wife 
died on this place. 

Joseph Alexander, son of Samuel, was born iu 
1766, on the home place at Chadd's Ford, Chester 
Co., Penn., and in 1807 was united in marriage 
with Elizabeth West. The following year he 
bought and moved upon 140 acres in North Stra 
bane township, this county, and died there March 
23, 1828. The wife and mother passed away iu 
1869, leaving the following children: Mary (wife 
of James Mahood), Samuel (married to Mary 
Van Eman), Elizabeth (Mrs. John Dixon, of 
Milan, Rock Island Co.. 111.), Joseph W.,West, and 
Susan (wife of William McQuail, a farmer of 
North Strabane township). 

Joseph W. Alexander was born April 5, 1815, on 
the home place in Canonsburg, and from earliest 
youth was an earnest, vigorous student. His in- 
clinations and natural ability soon led him to 
choose the medical profession as his life work. 
He entered Jefferson College in 1835, taking a full 
course with the exception of Greek. In 1838 he 
entered the office of Dr. Leatherland, and there 
studied medicine, at the same time teaching school. 
In 1840 he completed a thorough course at Jeffer- 
son Medical College, and then began to practice 
his profession in Eldersville, Washington Co., 
Penn., thence moving to Hillsboro, where he re- 
mained several years. On June 18, 1844, he was 
united in marriage with Mary Ann, daughter of 
James aod Elizabeth (Morrison) Horner. On 
August 6, 1861, Dr. Alexander passed the State 
Medical Examination, and in January, 1862, 
passed the examination as a surgeon. He was ap- 
pointed surgeon of the Twenty-sixth P. V. I., 
serving three years, and after the battle of Fair 
Oaks was made surgeon of the Eighty-fifth P. V. 
I., then served in the same capacity with the Fif- 
teenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, in the army of the 
Cumberland, until mustered out June 21, 1865, at 
Nashville, Tenn. He was physician of the Mor- 
ganza Reform School for many years, and passed 
the latter portion of his life in Canonsburg, enjoy- 
ing an enviable reputation as one of the most dis- 
tinguished physicians of Washington county. In 
August, 1885, he lost his wife, who had borne him 
children as follows: Laura (deceased), Elizabeth 
(wife of Thomas Yates), Margaret (Mrs. James 
F. Ray), Joseph H., Lola and William H. Dr. 
Alexander was originally a Whig, uniting with the 
Republican party upon its organization; was chair- 
man of the first county convention, and served as 
a member of the Legislature in 1853. He was a 
member of the Presbyterian Church, serving as 
elder for many years. The influence of Dr. Alex- 
ander will long be felt in the community where 
much of his life work was accomplished. He 
passed to rest April 20, 1892. 



II AsniXGTON COUNTY. 



22 1 



\V. H. Alexander, a son of the eminent physician 
above mentioned, was lwrn in Canonsburg, Penn. 
He is a worthy representative of his honored 
father, whose unfinished work it has become the 
sacred dnty of the young physician to take up. 
W. H. Alexander entered Jefferson Medical Col- 
lege at the age of twenty two year--, and. gradnat 
ing in 1885, commenced practice with bin father 
in Canonsburg. He is a stanch Republican, work 
ing earnestly for the success of hi- party, and is 
undoubtedly destined to become as distinguished 
iu his chosen calling as was his father. 



J (AMES WATSON. In recording the names 
of the prominent and influential citizen- of 
Washington county, our list would be in com 
plete were to be omitted the name of this, in 

liis lifetime, well known eminent attorney. 
James Watson was liorn in Canonsburg, Wash 
ington Co., Penn., a son of John and Mary (Miller) 
Watson, both of whom died in Canonsburg. They 
were the parents of six children, of whom only one 
survives, a daughter, Mrs. Miller, now living with 
her son in law, Mr. Haft, in Houstonville, this 
county. Our subject received his primary educa 
tioti at the common schools of his native town, af 
ter which he attended Canonsburg College, from 
which he graduated. Immediately after gradua- 
tion he came to the borough of Washington and 
commenced the study of law in the office of 
Thomas McKennan, under whose preceptorship he 
studied until he was admitted to the bar iu 1833. 
Soon afterward, Mr. McKennan being admitted to 
Congress, Mr. Watson was received into partner 
ship with him in the practice of law, and during 
his absence our subject had complete charge of 
the office and business. His entire legal life was 
at the Washington county bar, and at first his 
practice was a general one, but later in life he 
would take no criminal cases. On April 15, 1875, 
Mr. Watson passed from earth at the age of sixty 
six years. He was a member of the United Pres- 
byterian congregation of Washington, and in politics 
he was a Republican. On January 15, 1835, he 
was married to Miss Maria Woodbridge Morgan, 
daughterof George and Elizabeth Aldrich (Thomp- 
son) Morgan, and ten children were born to them, 
viz. : Elizabeth Thompson, living with her widowed 
mother; Mary Baynton, widow of Rev. Alexander 
Reed, late of the Presbyterian Church (she resides 
in Washington, Penn.): George (deceased); Jane 
Gilman, living in Allegheny; David Thompson, a 
prominent attorney of Pittsburgh; Matilda, wife of 
A. G. Happer, in Washington, Penn. ; James, au 
attorney in New York City; William Morgan, part- 
ner with his brother, David T., in law business, in 
Pittsburgh, and two that died in infancy. Mrs. 



Watson still resides in Washington. She is a 
member of the First Presbyterian Church. 

George Morgan, father of Mrs. .lames Watson, 
was born in 1780 iu Princeton, N. J., a son of Col. 

(i ge Morgan who was married in Philadelphia 

to Miss Mary Baynton (daughter of a merchant ol 
that city), by whom he had children, John, Ann, 
George! Thomas and Maria. Col. George Morgan 
came with his family to Washington county, set 
tling on land in North Strabane township, said 
land being a portion of what is known as the 
"Morganza tract." Col. George Morgan died in 
1810, his wife surviving him fifteen years, and they 
were both buried in the family ground at Mm' 
ganza, and afterward removed to the cemetery at 
Washington, Penn. Their son George was edu- 
cated at Princeton (N. J.) College, and came wesl 
in 1796, after he had finished his studies. He 
married Elizabeth A , daughter of David Thomp- 
son, of Delaware, iu which State the daughter was 
born, and the young couple then settled on the old 
farm at Morganza, ou which they resided many 
years. The family of children born to them were 
as follows: 'David T. (deceased!. Mary B. (de 
ceased wife of Rev. Wijliam McCombs), Elizabeth 
McKennan (deceased wife of Luther Edgerton, of 
Marietta. Ohio), Nancy Gibbs (widow of William 
D. Morgan, and now living in Washington, Penn.), 

Maria W Lbridge (since Mrs. James Watson). 

George (deceased). Matilda Bowman (first wife of 
William D. Morgan, of Washington), Dr. William 
McKennan (deceased), and Lauretta Thompson 
(residing at Washington). The father died sud- 
denly while on his way home from a visit to Ohio, 
the mother passing away several years after, in 
Washington, at the age of seventy years. The 
family is one of the best known and most highly 
connected in the county. 



* 



L JlrUNSON POST was born in the State of 
\f/\ New Jersey. He married and lived in 
It I Essex county, where he reared a large 
-^ family, and thence removed to Mashing 
ton county. Penn., settling in Morris town 
ship about the year 1781. He brought his family 
and household effects in wagons, and they were 
several weeks on the way. One incident of their 
journey has been hauded down to the present 
generation, which is about as follows: They 
brought two or three cows with them, the boys of 
the family taking turns driving and herding them. 
When they camped for the night the cows were 
milked night and morning, and as they moved on, 
the jostling of the wagon churned the milk, thus 
saving the time and labor of churning the milk. 
Politically Mr. Post was a Democrat, which is 
largely the characteristic of his descendants. 
Just what his religious faith was, is not known, 



222 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



but be is supposed to have been a member of the 
Church of England. 

Jeremiah Post, son of Munson Post, was born in 
Essex county, N. J., September 10, 1769, and at. 
the age of twelve years came with his father's 
family to Washington, Penn. He received a 
limited education, and in January, 1794, was 
married to Martha, daughter of Dr. Charles 
Cracraft, and she bore him four children: William, 
Deborah, Charles and Joseph. For his second 
wife he married, October 25, 1804, Mary, daughter 
of Abraham Enlow, who resided in East Finley 
township, this county, and their children were 
Maitha, Jemima, Martin, Jesse, Luke, Sarah, 
Mary A., James R. and Phoebe. Mr. Post for a 
short time after he was married lived on a small 
farm which he owned near what is now Van Bureu, 
which he sold and then bought the home farm, it 
being a part of a tract of land called "Content," 
situated on the headwaters of Ten Mile creek, 
owned by Dr. Charles Cracraft, where he after 
ward resided. Politically he was a Democrat; in 
religious faith he was a Cumberland Presbyterian, 
and was one of the charter members of the Bethel 
C. P. Church. He died June 1, 1848, and was 
buried in the Bethel cemetery; his wife died 
November 30, 1854, and rests beside him. 

William Post, son of Jeremiah Post, was born 
November 12, 1795, and grew up on the home 
farm. He married Miss Margaret, daughter of 
Benjamin Lindley, of Morris township, and they 
live in different parts of Washington and Greene 
counties, also in northern Ohio. They reared a 
large family of children. He was a farmer by oc- 
cupation at the time of his death, which occurred 
January 2, 1866, on the farm owned by his son 
B. L. Post in Donegal township, where he was 
then living; his remains were buried in the Bethel 
cemetery near Van Buren. His wife followed 
him to the grave in March, 1884, and her remains 
rest by his. Their son B. L. Post, of Donegal 
township, is an enterprising and successful farmer. 
Deborah Post grew up on the home farm, and was 
married to John, son of Luke Enlow, of East Finley 
township. They lived for many years on the 
home farm where the Pees brothers now reside, it 
being his father's farm. They reared a large 
family, and migrated to southern Illinois. Mr. 
Enlow was a millwright by occupation, but after 
they removed he engaged in farming which he 
carried on successfully as long as he lived. Mrs. 
Enlow was something over seventy years of age at 
the time of her death; her remains rest near her 
western home. Charles Post was brought up on' 
the home farm, and learned the millwright's trade 
with Charles Cracraft, and worked at same for a 
number of years. He married Miss Elizabeth 
Bryant, and then went to Allen county, Ohio, 
where he purchased a farm, built a mill thereon, 



and engaged in farming and milling which he 
carried on until overtaken by the infirmities of 
age. They reared five children, four of whom are 
settled near their old home at Spencerville, Allen 
Co., the fifth being settled in Jasper county, Mo. 
Mr. Post in politics was a Republican, in religious 
faith a Methodist Episcopal; he died at his home 
March 28, 1884. Joseph Post when a young man 
engaged in mercantile business. He married and 
lived near Batavia, Ohio, and reared two children: 
Samuel P. and Mary E., who became the wife of 
Hon. Darnell, of Van Wert, Ohio. Mr. Post died 
when comparatively a young man; his widow is at 
present residing with her daughter at Vau Wert, 
Ohio. 

Martha Post became the wife of George Eng- 
land, of East Finley township, and was the mother 
of two children, Samuel, and Mary A., who became 
the wife of G. W. Craft, of Morris township. Mrs. 
England died when about thirty-one years of age. 
Jemima Post married John, son of Elliott Enlow, 
and they lived on his father's farm near the Stony 
Point M. E. church in East Finley township. 
Their family consisted of four daughters and one 
son — John M — an enterprising furniture dealer in 
Claysville. Mrs. Enlow was an exemplary member 
of the M. E. Church at Stony Point; she died May 
6, 1S83, aged seventy-live years, and her body rests 
beside that of her husband in the Stony Point 
cemetery. Martin Post was born June 22, 1809, 
and passed his youth on the home farm in South 
Franklin township, Washington Co., Penn., re- 
ceiving his education in the common schools. He 
married Miss Rebecca, daughter of Hugh and 
Ruth Montgomery, of East Finley township, and 
they had three children: Sarah M. (deceased), 
Mary E. and John M. They began life on the 
home farm where they passed the rest of their 
days. Mr. Post was a successful farmer, which 
occupation he followed as long as he lived. He 
was a great reader, and kept himself informed in 
most of the leading topics of the day. Politically 
he was a Democrat; in religious faith he was a 
member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church; 
he was one of the charter members of the Bethel 
C. P. Church. On February 2, 1840, he was or- 
dained ruling elder of the above-named church, 
and from his ordination until his death he was 
clerk of the Session — a period of some forty- five 
years. One of the leading characteristics of his 
life was his great desire to always be right and do 
right. He died January 30, 1885, and his body 
was laid to rest in the Bethel cemetery, by that of 
his father and mother. After his decease his widow 
lived on the home farm until her death, and she 
managed the farm successfully, being a woman of 
great perseverance and energy. She also was a 
member of the Bethel C. P. Church. She died 
February 23, 1892, in her seveuty first year, and 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



223 



was buried beside ber bueband. Their daughter 
Mary E. resides on the home farm. John M. is a 
prominent fanner and business man of East Fin- 
ley township, and is a justice of the peace in said 
township. Jesse Post was horn December '2, 1811; 
he married Margaret Dickerson, of Morris town- 
ship, anil after living for a number of years in 
East Finley township, at what is known as Post's 
Mill, In- removed to Washington county. Ohio, and 
purchased a farm near Beverly, where he engaged 
in farming. They had no children. He died 
July II, 1879; his widow is still living. Luke 
Post wasborn August 13, 1846. He married Mar 
i ha McKoy, of East Finley township; was a farmer 
l>\ occupation; in politics a Democrat, and in relig- 
ious faith a Cumberland Presbyterian. He died 
( October 29, 1 855, and was buried in the Stony Point 
cemetery; his wife is still living, and is now the 
widow of Richard Mounts, of Donegal township. 
Sarah Post died when about twentj our years 
of age, unmarried; Mary Ann became the wife of 
John Finley, of East Finley township, and was 
the mother of Beven children, namely: Jeremiah 
P., Sarali I.. James M., John A . Phoebe M. (de- 
ceas'd), Robert ('. and William I!. The parents 
lived in East Finlej township. The mother was 
truly a Christian woman, and as to her good <pial 
dies her neighbors could testify. Her kindness 
has relieved many of the hungry pool- of her com- 
munity. She was a member of the Presbyterian 

Church 1 of Claysville. She died December 8, 
1877, and her body rests in the Claysville ceme- 
tery. James R. Post died in infancy. Phoebe 
Post was born September 5, 1823, and became the 
wife of Cyrus Sprowls, of East Finley township 
They began life en the old home farm now owned 
by Mrs. Simeon Sprowls, and they had three chil 
dren, two of whom are living: Jesse 1'. and Mary 
A Mrs. Sprowls was an exemplary member of 
the Bethel C. P. Church. She died July 31, 18 19, 
and was buried in the Stony Point cemetery. Her 
husband lived many years after her decease. 
Their son, J. P., is a Cumberland Presbyterian 
minister, now at Salem, III.; Mary A. is the wife 
of Jacob Rockey, of Burnsville, this county. 
[From the pen of Mary E. Post. 



rii M. TODD, a prominent attorney at law in 

II l\ Washington, was born September 23, 1842, 

ij\\ at Jacksonville, Morgan Co., 111., a son of 

J -* Rev. Andrew Todd, who was a native of 

Flemingsburg, Ky. The grandfather of 

our subject, who was also a Kentuckian, married 

there, and had a numerous family. 

Rev. Andrew Todd, father of the subject of 
these lines, received his primary education at the 
public schools of his neighborhood, which was sup- 
plemented with a course of study at Washington 



College and at Jefferson College in this county, 
graduating from the latter- in 1S17. He then en 
tered Princeton Theological Seminary, where he 
graduated, after which he resided for a time m 
Flemingsburg, Ky., and finally moved to Jackson 
ville, 111., where he passed the rest of his days, 
dying at Montieello. Fla.. September 2, 1850. Mr. 
Todd was married to Catherine, daughter of John 
and Catherine (Cunningham) Wilson, the former a 
native of Ireland, the latter of Scotland, Mr. 
Wilson, who was by trade a cabinet maker, came 
to Washington county at an early day and made a 
permanent settlement. The children born to Rev. 
Andrew and Catherine (Wilson) Todd were Ara 
bella (Mrs. Rev. Joseph Waugh) and A. M. In 
politics Mr. Todd was a Whig. 
A. M. Todd attended the public schools of his na 

tive town, and at the age of fourt entered Wash 

ington College, this county, where he graduated in 
18<51. On completing bisliterar) studies he entered 
the law office of David S. Wilson, in Washington, 
where he remained until 1868, when he was admitted 
to the bar of Washington county. Mr. Todd was 
married in 1874 to Annie, daughter of Joseph 
Mason, a native of Steubenville, Ohio. To them 
were born two children, Catharine, who died in in 
fancy, and Elizabeth M. In politics Mr. Todd is a 
Republican, prominent in the parly. At the forma 
tion of the Bar Association of Washington count) 
in September. 1892, he was unanimously chosen 
president of that bodj 



II M ICHAELG. KUNTZ. who, like his brother 
l\/| James W., is one of the oldest and most 

I ■ I respected residents of Washington bor 

II — ough, first saw the light of day February 
v 1 1, 1820, in an old log house which stood 
on a piece of land that has been in the possession 
of the family for a great many years. 

His grandfather. Michael Kuntz, a laborer by 
occupation, (tame, unaccompanied, in 1788, from 
Lancaster county to Washington county, and bought 
land where now stands Brady's jewelry store, in 
Washington. Here he built a cabin, but on ac- 
count of the Indians, his family did not come out 
until May, 1790. Michael Kuntz revisited Lan- 
caster county, but returned and died here in 1793 
(he was a Freemason of high standing). His 
widow, who afterward married Joseph Price, sur- 
vived him until about the year 1835, when she 
was called from earth at the advanced age of nine- 
ty-three years. She was his second wife, and 
there is a record of two children by his first mar- 
riage, John and an older brother, who was a car- 
penter. To his second union four children were 
born, of whom we find the names of George H. , 
Jacob, Sophia (Mrs. (ieorge Byrker, formerly of 
Washington) and also another daughter, a Mrs. 



224 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Beddick, all now passed away. They came over the 
mountains on pack horses, across which were 
thrown saddle-bags, made of homemade linen, and 
when the little boys were tired walking they were 
placed in the pockets of these saddle bags. 

George H. Kuntz, born in Lancaster county, 
Penn., January 25, 1785, was about six years old 
when brought to Washington. Here he lived at the 
same place over fourscore years, dying July-18,1870. 
He was a hatter by trade, and in 1810 opened a 
factory at Washington, where hats were made by 
hand. This business he continued until 1844, 
when he retired. In 1818 he married Elizabeth, 
daughter of James Wisbey, of Washington, and 
seven children were born to them: Michael and 
James W., both at Washington; one that died in 
infancy; Brady, a physician, who died at Washing- 
ton, March 26, 1863; Sophia, who married Charles 
Hayes, and died at Washington in 1S54; Philip, 
who also died at Washington, December IN. 1ST:', 
and Stephen, who died in April, 1891, at the age 
of fifty six years. The father was called from 
earth July 18, 1870, at the age of eighty-six years 
(he was a Jacksonian Democrat, and for a time 
served as borough treasurer; was a Freemason, 
having been initiated in 1824); the mother died 
April 21, 1884, when eighty-four years old. 

Michael G. Kuntz received his education at the 
public schools of his native place, remaining under 
the paternal roof until he was eighteen years of 
age, when he proceeded to Wheeling, W. Va., in 
order to learn the cabinet making trade. On 
completing his apprenticeship, he returned to 
Washington, where for a time he worked for 
Thomas Bryson, and at journey work, until 1844, 
when he opened a shop in Washington for his own 
account. This he conducted until April, 1856, 
when he embarked in the gents' furnishing business, 
which he has since continued, having been located 
at his present stand over twenty eight years. On 
October 16, 1844, Mr. Kuntz was married to Miss 
Eliza Jane, daughter of John Ruth, who came to 
Washington from Maryland at an early day, dying 
here. This union has been blessed with six chil- 
dren, viz.: George B., in his father's store; Mary 
Jane, married to Robert McBrury, and now keeping 
house for her father; James Jr., in the real-estate 
business at Washington; Elizabeth, wife of John 
M. Morrow, of Washington, and John R., a drug 
gist of Washington. The mother died April 19, 
1886, at the age of sixty-three years. Mr. Kuntz 
has been a lifelong Democrat, and has not failed 
to poll his vote for fifty years, his first Presidential 
vote being cast in the fall of 1844, when he had to 
walk sixteen miles for that purpose. He joined 
the I. O. O. F. at Washington, and in February, 
1843, became a charter member of Lodge No. 81. 
His present home is on South Main street, where 
he has resided for the last sixteen years. 



HARLESB. WOOD, M.D., a prominent phy 
sician and surgeon of Monongahela, is a 
son of Samuel A. Wood, a native of Vir- 
ginia, whose family were of English birth. 
Samuel A. Wood was married to Lucy M. Curl, 
of Virginia, whose mother was a relative of Chief- 
justice Gibson, of Pennsylvania. 

The children of Mr. and Mrs. Wood were: Joshua 
G., au attorney of Topeka, Kans. ; Thomas S., who 
died in 1892, was principal of one of the Allegheny 
schools; Louis M., an architect of Denver, Colo.; 
Charles B., whose name opens this sketch; Mary 
G, living in Brownsville, Penn., and Lucy, de- 
ceased. The parents are now living in Browns 
ville, Fayette county, retired from active business. 
Both are members of the Presbyterian Church. 

Charles B. Wood was born at Brownsville, Fay 
ette county, Penn., where he passed his youth. 
He attended Oberlin College for four years, then 
read medicine with Dr. W. S. Duncan, of Browns 
ville, and completed his studies at the University 
of Pennsylvania, from which he graduated in 1876. 
He practiced at Monongahela for ten years, then 
attended the Polyclinic of New York, and in 1889 
took a course in special studies at the Polyclinic 
Hospital and Wills Eye Hospital, Philadelphia. 
In 1887 he married Carrie, daughter of Hon. 
George V. Lawrence, of Monongahela. One son, 
Lawrence, blessed their union. Dr. Wood has 
given special study to the eye and ear, but is a gen 
eral practitioner, and since 1881 has been Surgeon 
for the Pennsylvania Railroad. He is what every 
true physician must be, enthusiastically devoted 
to his calling. His reputation is not confined to 
this domain, however, for Dr. Wood is equally a 
favorite in social and business circles, where his 
original ideas and store of information are ever 
fully appreciated. In politics he is a Republican, 
" born and bred," and has served as a member of 
the school board of Monongahela. He is a mem- 
ber of the American Medical Association; Pennsyl- 
vania State Medical Society; National Association 
of Railway Surgeons; and Washington County 
Medical Society. 



QUIRE HENRY B. McLEAN, a well known, 
popular and successful citizen of this coun- 
ty, was born in Fayette county, Penn., May 
19, 1822. The McLean family came to 
Fayette county in an early day, where the grand 
parents died many years ago. Alexander, a 
brother of John McLean, the grandfather, served 
his county and party as register and recorder for 
many years. The grandparents had a family of 
se.veu children, all of whom are now deceased. 

John McLean, father of subject, was born in 
1771. He was a soldier in the war of 1812, serv- 
ing as captain of a company from Fayette county. 



WASHINGTON COl.\ I ) 



225 



Hi' was a surveyor and farmer by profession, ami 
in early life was united in marriage with Mary. 
daughter of John Jackson, of Washington county. 
Perm The family finally settled on a farm in 
Fayette county, when' Mr. McLean died in L831, 
at the age of sixty years. His widow afterward 
became the wifeof John Gattenby, of Brownsville, 
Fayette Co., Penn She died in 1S7'2, having 
borne to her first husband a family of eleven chil 
dren: James, Samuel, John, William, Robert, 
Henry 15., Clarissa, Helen, Sarah, Mary Ann and 
Margaret, of whom John, Mary Ann and Henry 
B. survive. A few moved West, and they were 
widely scattered, our subject being the only one who 
settled in Washington county. 

Henry B. McLean attended the log-cabin school 
of the day. the walls of which were decorated with 
pegs, whereon were placed whips of all sizes, tend 
iog to strike terror into the juvenile heart. Some- 
times a stick, happening to be mor nvenient to 

the hand of the irate pedagogue, was thrown at the 
head of the offending urchin. He resided on the 
farm until eighteen years of age, when he began 
life for himself in Washington county, first learn- 
ing the carpenter's trade of James Rogers (de- 
ceased) and a brother in law. After serving a 
three years' apprenticeship, he followed his trade 
ten years, beginning work at I o'clock in the muni 
ing and closing at S in the evening, receiving in 
payment the munificent salary of SI per day. On 
May 19, 1847, Mr. McLean married Mary Ann, 
daughter of Samuel Rogers, who came from Mary 
land in 1820, and died on Squire McLean's farm a 
few years ago, at the age of sixty eight years, the 
mother having passed away some years before. In 
1852 our subject bought the farm he now own--. 
upon which an old lug house was then standing, 
By hard work he continued to improve this home 
until a comfortable income was secured, and in 
1867 erected a dwelling-house. While working on 
this building, he fell from a high scaffolding, 
striking his head on a stone, and crushing his ribs. 
He was senseless for over a week, and has never 
fully recovered from the terrible accident. Squire 
McLean has attained the prominent position he 
now occupies in Washington county by years of 
untiring industry, and deserves the most sincere 
and hearty commendation. His marriage has been 
blessed by one daughter, .Sarah Ellen (Mrs. J. Y. 
Scott, of Washington, Penn.). In politics he was 
a Democrat until IS'ifi, when he became a Repub- 
lican. He has served in all the township offices, 
also tilling the position of county commissioner for 
oue term, and has acted as justice of the peace for 
fifteen years, being especially fitted for the latter 
office, for he has always been a peacemaker. Mr. 
and Mrs. McLean are members of the M. E. 
Church. She has a brother, John A., living in 
Baltimore, Maryland. 



n C. SAMPSON (deceased) was horn Feb 
1 I ruarj 1">, 1828, in Allegheny county, Penn., 

fpAl near MoKeesport, a son of Thomas and 
JJ -* Anna (Coon) Sampson, the former of whom, 
a native of Ireland, came to America at an 
early day. Their children were Mary ( Mrs. Oliver 
Evans), A. C, Harvey, Margaret. William. John 
and Letitia. Thomas Sampson was a farmer and 
manufacturer of sickles, and also conducted a 
flouring mill. He was ;i zealous member of the 
Long Run Presbyterian Church. 

A. C. Sampson received a liberal education at 
the public schools in tin' vicinity of his birthplace, 
proving an apt and diligent pupil. In his earl] 
manhood he embarked in the insurance business, 
which he followed with marked success during his 
lifetime, being general agent for Western Penn 
sylvania Co. He was three times married: first to 
Margaret Williams, then to Fannie Moore, and 
lastly to Letitia S., daughter of -lames Manown, 
of whom special mention will presently be made. 
The children by the first wife were Nancy, and 
one that died in infancy; by the second, two that 
died in infancy; and by the third, live children, 
viz.: Anna K. (deceased wife of Dr. Boyd, also de 
ceased), Sarah M., Letitia S. (who married Edwin 
Bmbaker, and died, leaving oue sou, Henry S. 
Brubaker), A. C. and Harriet L. The father of 
these children died May It*. 1872. After his first 
marriage, lie came, in 1853, to Monongahela City 
to reside. Mr. Sampson was a progressive citizen, 
a typical self made man, than whom none in the 
county enjoyed higher respect and esteem. He 
was the first president of the People's Savings 
Bank. Monongahela City, and was oue of the 
active, solid business men of the place. Politically 
lie was a working member of the Republican party; 
socially a F. & A. M., ho held a high degree in the 
fraternity; in religion ho was a consistent member 
of the Presbyterian Church. 

James Manown, father of Mrs. A. C. Sampson, 
was born in County Down, Ireland, in 1781. His 
father, Richard Manown, a native of the same 
county, married a Miss Smith, who bore him chil 
dren as follows: James, William, John, Richard 
and Elizabeth (Mrs. Robert Bailie). The family 
came to America in 1798, the voyage occupying 
fourteen weeks, and from New York, where they 
landed, they 7 proceeded to western Pennsylvania, 
making a settlement near Round Hill Church, in 
Westmoreland county, where they followed farm 
ing. They were members of the Episcopal 
Church. James Manown, was, as will be seen, 
seventeen years old when he came with his parents 
to America. He had been well educated in his 
native land, and on his arrival in the New World 
be learned the trade of carpenter and builder 
which he followed for some years. On December 
0, 1808, he married Mrs. Cassandra Elliott, a 



226 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



daughter of Daviil Devore, and the widow of 
George Elliott, by whom she had two children: 
Burn side and Patience (Mrs. Benjamin Davis). 
David Devore (the grandfather of Mrs. Letitia 
Manown Sampson) came from New Jersey in 
1787, with his wife Elizabeth Harvey. He and his 
brother, Moses Devore, purchased, in 1788, 250 
acres of land, lying opposite Monongahela City, 
which land was then in Westmoreland county, now 
Forward township, Allegheny county, paying 50 
cents per acre with interest from March 1, 1771, 
agreeably to an act passed by the Assembly in 
1784. David Devore was granted license to ferry 
from his home on this property to the mouth of 
Pigeon creek, afterward known as Parkison's 
ferry. He died in 1789, leaving a widow and 
one child, Cassandra. His widow some years af- 
terward married Major Scott, and to her was born 
one son, William. After the death of Mr. Scott 
Ins widow made her home with this son at Vin- 
ceunes, Ind., where she died in 1820. Cassandra 
Devore married George Elliott, who was drowned 
off the ferry while trying to rescue his son Burn- 
side, -lames Manown married Mrs. George El- 
liott, and resided on the farm near the ferry which 
James Manown bought from Moses Devore. The 
ferry belonging to his wife, James Manown after- 
ward bought at sheriff sale the Parkison inter 
est in land and ferry, and carried on the ferry 
until the Williamsport bridge was built in 1836. 
On this same farm now live James Manown's old 
est son, Franklin, with his two sisters, Mrs. Har- 
riet Moore and Sarah Manown, also James Moore, 
son of Mrs. H. Moore. James Manown died May 
21, 1873, liis wife having preceded him to the 
grave in 1860. They were the parents of the fol 
lowing named children: Eliza (Mrs. Asher Van 
Kirk), Franklin, Nancy (Mrs. John Thickield), 
Cassandra (Mrs. Alfred Thickield), James (a phy- 
sician, now of Kingwood, W. Va. , married to a 
Miss Armstrong), Harriet (Mrs. James Moore), 
Sarah, and Letitia S. (Mrs. A. C. Sampson). Mr. 
Manown was an influential Democrat and a con- 
sistent member of the Presbyterian Church. He 
was a remarkably enterprising man, one whose in 
fluence for good was felt in the community, and 
he took a deep interest in educational and relig 
ions matters. For several years he served as a 
justice of the peace. 

f( I' ON. JOHN A. MelLVAINE, president 
| — j judge of the courts of Washington county, 
composing the Twenty- seventh Judicial 
J) -* District of Pennsylvania, was born in Som- 
v erset township, said county, April 13, 1843, 

a son of William and Matilda Mcllvaine. His pa 
ternal grandfather was Greer Mcllvaine, who re- 
moved to Somerset township from the eastern part 
of the State in I7SS or 1789. 



The early education of the subject of this mem- 
oir was obtained in the common schools of his 
township, and September 19, 1860, he entered the 
junior preparatory department of Jefferson College, 
at Canonsburg; but, by doing double duty, and 
being aided by a fine natural ability, he was ad 
mitted to the Freshman class of the college at the 
beginning of the fall term of 1861. Graduating 
in 1865, he was awarded the second honor of 
his class (consisting of thirty-six members), and 
delivered the Latin salutatory on commencement 
day. The class of 1X65 was the last class gradu- 
ated at Jefferson College before its union with 
Washington College, forming thereafter Washing 
ton and Jefferson College, at Washington, Penn. 

Immediately after graduation Mr. Mcllvaine en ' 
tered as a law student with Hon. Boyd Crumrine, 
at Washington, Penn., and was admitted to the 
bar at August term, 1867. For two years after 
his admission he was engaged as a clerk in the 
office of the county treasurer, and then went to 
Kansas, locating at Wichita. While at that place 
he held the office of clerk of the district court for 
one year. In July, 1872, he was called home by 
the illness of his father, and, a favorable opportu 
nitv offering, he soon afterward opened a law 
office in Washington, Penn. During the years 
1872 and 1873 he served as secretary of the 
Republican County Vigilance Committee. Becom 
ing a candidate himself, in 1874 he was elected 
district attorney for Washington county for the 
usual term of three years, and at the end of this 
term was re-elected for a second term. Upon re- 
tiring from that office, at the end of his six years' 
continuous service, he received most favorable 
commendation from the public press for the man 
ner in which he had discharged the duties of his 
office. One of the leading papers of his county, 
of opposite politics, said of him: " Mr. Mcllvaine 
has been the chosen officer to represent the people 
in all criminal prosecutions in this county for the 
past six years, and we but echo the sentiment of 
all conversant with the facts when we say that he 
has discharged the trust with great ability and 
fairness. He is a hard worker, and always had a 
knowledge of the facts, and wab fully prepared 
to present them in a methodical and convincing 
way. Although a vigorous prosecutor, he was 
fair; and no defendant had just cause to complain 
of any undue advantage having been taken of 
him." 

During his term of office as district attorney, 
Mr. Mcllvaine formed a partnership in professional 
business with Mr. M. L. A. McCracken, and the 
legal business of the firm became large and lucra- 
tive. This partnership continued until 1886, when 
on November 4, of that year, Mr. Mcllvaine was 
elected president judge of the Twenty-seventh 
Judicial District, for a term of ten years. On 





: <z. 




WASHINGTON COUNTY 



229 



account of the development of his native county in 
the production of oil and natural j;h>, his term of 
office as judge, up to the date of this writing, has 
h;id a large and varied increase in the amount and 
character of the legal business to be transacted; 
but it is the opinion common to all that the Judge 
has been equal to the demand made upon his 
ability and strength, and not only has the business 
beeu promptly transacted, but transacted in such 
a way as to be very satisfactory to both lawyers 
and clients. The cases in which his rulings and 
decisions have been reversed in the supreme courl 
have been comparatively few in number. 

On December 17. 1874, Judge Mcllvaine mar- 
ried .Miss Ada C.Shaw, of Philadelphia. He served 
in the National Guard of Pennsylvania, as adjutant 
of the Tenth Regiment for two years. He is a 
ruling elder in the Second Presbyterian Church. 
He has a beautiful and pleasant home in East 
Washington, with every comfort and convenience 
for himself and wife, about him, save one the 
presence of children. He is free from all osten 
tatious pride, is genial and affable in his manner. 
and is always ready to bestow a favor, to speak a 
pleasant word, and to do a kind act. 




yiTTENHOUSE ('KISS was born Septem 
ber 17, 1817. He was a son of Jacob 
Griss, whose father, John Criss, emigrated 
from Germany and settled on a tract of 
land containing 319 acres called " I lei nut 
age," situated on Harmon's creek, in Washington 
Co.. Penn., at what is now Hanliu Station, which 
became his permanent home. He had a family of 
sis sons: William, Jacob, Henry. John; Nicholas. 
aid George, also a daughter Sarah, who became 
the wife of Samuel Wright. The father of these 
passed away at an advanced age. He was one of 
the first pioneers, and a highly respected citizen. 
He was buried in the Bethel M. E. Churchyard. 

Jacob Criss, son of John, was born May 15, 
1778, and on November 25, 1799, was married to 
Hannah Rittenhouse, who was born April 6, 17S1. 
Thirteen children were born to this union, all of 
whom (except one) grew to manhood and woman 
hood and married. Eight of these children were 
sons and five daughters. After his marriage Mr. 
Criss bought and settled on a part of the home 
farm which his father had owned. This farm is 
now owned by the heirs of his son, Rittenhouse 
Criss He died in 1845 aged about sixty-eight years, 
and was buried beside his wife in the Bethel grave- 
yard. Of the thirteen children of Jacob Criss, 
but one is living at the date of this writing, Febru- 
ary, 1893, the youngest son, Mr. Jacob Criss, of 
Colliers, W. Va. , aged about seventy-three. 

Rittenhouse Criss, seventh son of Jacob and 
Hannah (Rittenhouse) Criss, was born on the home 



farm, and passed his youth in agricultural pur 
suits. In L844 he was united in marriage to Miss 
Mary Fink, who became the mother of four chil- 
dren, two sons and two daughters. In 1853 the 
mother and three youngest children were strick- 
en down with typhoid dysentery and died. 
The eldest and only remaining child grew to woman 
hood, and married John 1>. Robison. Shediedtwo 
years afterward, aged nineteen years. Mr. Criss 
afterward married Miss Eliza J. Stewart (a cousin 
of his tirst wife), by whom he had eight children, 
namel\ : Stewart W., Elmore R., both of Colliers, 
W. Va.;Charles I. . of Pittsburgh, Penn.; Robert 
W . of Colliers, and Nicholas R.. Mary M.. Anna 
R. and Hallie B., who reside with their mother 
on the home farm. The father was long a mem 
ber of the Methodisl Protestant Church of Elders 
ville. He died suddenly of heart trouble, Decem- 
ber I. 1882, in the sixty tifth year of his age, and 
was buried in the Eldersville cemetery. Mr. diss 
always lived on the farm on which he was born. 

Eliza J. Criss, widow of Rittenhouse Criss. was 
born in Brooke county, W Va., August Id. 1835. 
She was a daughter of Robert Stewart, whose 
father. Samuel Stewart, emigrated from Scotland 
and located on Robison's run, Washington Co., 
Penn., and there was united in marriage to Eliza- 
beth McCarty, a lady of Irish ai stry. Of the 

children born to them six lived to mat mat v. namely : 
Charles. George, John, Robert, Sarah and Mary, 
all now deceased, leaving numerous descendants 
scattered through different parts of Ohio and 
Pennsylvania. Robert Stewart was born Septem 
ber 111, 1810, and received his education in the 
common schools which he improved 1>_\ a course of 
general reading. He was married to Miss Margaret 
Wilson, a resident of Washington county, born in 
November, 1812. Of the eight children born to 
them, seven are living, Mrs. Criss being the eld 
est. Robert Stewart died in September, 1876, 
his wife in 1855. 



' 



I M( RS. AGNES MILLER. Of the eminent 

\/| families in Washington county the name 

•i I of Miller has for many years represented 

a race noted for patriotism, energy and 

intelligence. 

In 1784 or 17S5 James Miller emigrated from 
his home in County Tyrone. Ireland, to Chester 
county, Penn. A few years later he removed to 
Washington county, then a wilderness, and took 
out patents for over one thousand acres of land, 
embracing that now owned by his descendants — 
John, James and Andrew Miller, of Mt. Pleasant 
and Chartiers townships. In 1811 Thomas Mil- 
ler followed his brother to this country, bringing 
with him his family, consisting of his wife, Mar 
garet. and their children — two sous, three daugh- 



230 



il ASHINGTON COUNTY. 



ters aud one daughter-in-law, viz. : Thomas, An 
drew (married), Margaret (who married a cousin, 
John Miller), Sarah (married to Thomas, a brother 
of John Miller), and Mary, who remained unmar- 
ried. In March, 1812, Thomas Miller bought the 
tract of land named in its patent " Peace and 
Plenty." 

This farm, which became the Miller homestead, 
was inherited by Thomas Miller, Jr., who was in 
his twenty fourth year when he came to America. 
He married, after coining to America, his cousin, 
Margaret Miller, who died within a year. His 
second wife was Elizabeth Brown, who died, leav 
ing him one daughter, Margaret (now Mrs. James 
K. Hamilton, of Brownstown, Ind.). His third 
choice was Catherine Shaw, who came to this 
country with her family in 1818 from County 
Donegal. Ireland. She bore him seven children: 
Thomas, Elizabeth, Sarah and Jane (twins), Mary 
(who married Rev. I. N. White, of Fairview, Ohio), 
Catherine and John Monteith. All are now de 
ceased, except Elizabeth, who now lives in Avalon, 
Allegheny Co., Penu. (She had been a most de 
voted daughter to her parents in their old age.) 
Thomas Miller devoted himself to farming and 
sliccp raising, making a signal success in that 
business. He was a devoted Freemason, and in 
politics was a Democrat, stumping the county for 
Polk's election. He was a member of the old 
Seceder Church, in Mount Pleasant township. 
He died December 23, 1877, in his ninety-second 
year. He divided his estate among his children. 

John M. Miller was born March 18, 1842. At 
the age of fourteen years he was sent to Elder's 
Kidge Academy, then to Jefferson College, Canons- 
burg, from which he was graduated in 1801. He 
then entered his name as a law student in Phila- 
delphia, but was obliged to return home and take 
charge of the old homestead. On September 13, 
1866, he was married to Miss Agnes White, daugh- 
ter of W. S. White, now of Canonsburg. Of 
their children, five — three sons and two daughters 
— are living. 

Mr. Miller's prosperous career as a farmer is 
well known among his fellow-Pennsylvanians, 
among whom his position as a prominent stock 
raiser was well established. He enjoyed a national 
reputation as a breeder of North Devon cattle. 
At the time of bis death he was president of the 
American Devon Cattle Club; vice president of 
the Spanish Merino Sheep Breeders' Association; a 
member of the State Board of Agriculture, and a 
member of the Western Pennsylvania Agricultural 
Association. He was a farmer who loved his voca 
tion and his home, improving not only the land 
but the stock buildings and methods of farming. 
In other business pursuits he. was equally success- 
ful, his enterprising spirit prompting him to look 
beyond the immediate profit of a transaction, and 






to estimate the general advantages to be obtained 
therefrom. He was a man of the strictest integ- 
rity, doing business only upon an honorable basis, 
which fact, combined with his ability and good 
judgment, brought him deserved success and made 
him a recognized authority in business matters. 
Politically, he was a Democrat, but, though inter- 
ested in public questions, was averse to political 
preferment. He served for many years as justice 
of the peace, and in other township offices. He 
was deeply interested in the public schools, spend- 
ing much of his time in planning for their im- 
provement. 

On the morning of May 14, 1888, he was 
stricken with apoplexy, and at one o'clock of the 
same day he passed away, seemingly without any 
pain. Mr. Miller was possessed of a tine appear 
ance and of a hearty, genial manner, which, with 
his generous disposition, won him friends innumer- 
able. His heart and hand were ever open to the 
cry of suffering, and, his sympathies aroused, he 
gave with a liberality not warranted by his re- 
sources. In brief, when he was laid to rest, the 
entire community, no less than his kindred and 
intimate friends, mourned the loss of a public 
benefactor, a true Christian and an upright, honor- 
able business man. 

Mrs. Miller still retains the old farm in Mount 
Pleasant township, but in September, 1890, came 
to her present home in Washington borough, in 
order to give her children better educational ad- 
vantages. 



JIOHN AIKEN. Joseph Aiken, the grand 
father of the subject of this sketch, came to 
) this country from Coleraine, County London- 
derry, Ireland, near the beginning of the 
present century. He was a Scotch-Irish Presby- 
terian, his ancestry having been driven over from 
Scotland at the time of the persecution. 

Four brothers came, first stopping in Adams 
county, Penn. ; then one settled and died in Law 
reoce county, Penn., another removed to Harrison 
county, Ohio, aud two remained in Washington 
county, Penn., one in the northern part and Joseph 
in Canton township. The one last named was a 
linen weaver. He died in 1843, and was buried in 
North Buffalo churchyard. He had ten children, 
of whom William was the eighth. William learned 
the tailor's trade with Charles Hawkins in Wash 
ington, Penn., whom he served as an apprentice 
from the age of fourteen until he was twenty-one. 
He started in business first at West Liberty, W. 
Va., but soon moved to Short creek, Jefferson 
county, Ohio, where he remained many years. He 
is still living in a warm, heartsome old age, on his 
farm at Coolville, Ohio. He first married Nancy 
Daugherty — the eldest of twenty-one children — at 



Washington coi \ n 



23 1 



West Middletown, Peun., in 1843; and several 
years after her death became the husband of Blag 
gie Stollar, whose father belonged to the family of 
that name in West Finley township, in this county. 
John Aiken, the eldest of twelve children of 
William, was born in West Liberty, W. Va.. Feb 
man 7. 1^11 When he was a few weeks old the 
family moved to McKee's Factory, Jefferson couu 
ty, Ohio. After he attained sufficient age he 
worked at farming during the summer and attend 
ed school in the winter, until August, 1 862, when, 
at the age of eighteen, he enlisted in the Union 
Army, in Company D, One Hundred and Twenty 
Sixth O. V. I. During the first nine months he 
served at Cumberland, Md. ,and Martinsburg, W. 
Va., when the regiment became a par! of the Third 
Corps, Army of the Potomac, and later of the Sixth 
Corps. He served as private, corporal and ser- 
geant. On September IS. 1864, when he was aerv 
ing in this regiment under Gen. Sheridan in the 
Shenandoah Valley, he received from the War De 
partment a commission as first Lieutenant in the 
Twenty Ninth U. S. C. T., with an order to report 
for duty in the Army of the Potomac. He re- 
mained, however, with the old regimen! f<>r sev- 
eral days, ami participated in the battles of < >pequan, 
September L9; Flint Hill. September 21; and 
Fisher's Hill, September 22. On September 28, 
le- started to join his new regiment, into which he 
was mustered October 10, 1864, at Poplar Grove 
Church, Virginia. This regiment then formed a 
part of the Fourth division of the Ninth Corps. It 
was afterward transferred to the Twenty-fifth 
(!orps, in the Army of the James, in front of Rich 
mond. Ten days after he was mustered in, he was 
placed in charge of and was the only officer in the 
company. From that time until he was mustered 
out in December, 1805, excepting a few days, he 
was in command of a company in this regiment 
In the early part of 1865 he passed the requisite 
examination, and was recommended for promotion 
to a captaincy. He was informed that the com- 
mission was ordered, but as it was so near the 
close of the war he never received it, and, conse- 
quently, was not mustered. He was in the cam- 
paign that ended in, aud was present at, General 
Lee's surrender. He was in twelve battles and 
many skirmishes, but was never wounded. In 
January, 1806, Mr. Aiken became a student in 
Washington aud Jefferson College, and remained 
there two years; at the end of which time he began 
the study of law with Alexander Wilson, of Wash- 
ington, Penn., and was admitted to the bar there, 
December 13, 1809, since which time he has de- 
voted himself exclusively to the practice of his 
profession. He was elected a ruling elder in the 
First Presbyterian Church in Washington in Feb- 
ruary, 1883, and was commissioner to the General 



Assembly of the Presbyterian Church at Omaha, 
Neb., in I'sST, serving as a member of the judicial 
committee of that body. The chief glory of his 
civil life, however, is in the relation of teacher in 
the Sabbath-school of the First Presbyterian 
Church since March. 1866, and from 187-1 of the 
Students' Bible class, whose average annual en- 
rollment has been about fifty. Over one hundred 
and twenty-live representatives of this elass have 
gone into the Christian ministry He is a director 
of the Washington Refining Company, also of the 
Washington Fire Insurance Compauy, the first 
National Bank of Washington, and a member of 
the Board of Trustees of Washington and .letter 
son College. 

The subject of this memoir was married to Jen- 
nie Blaine in December, 1869, in Fast Bethlehem 
township, Washington county, and from this union 
there have come live children: Mary, attending 
ih.' Western Female Seminary at Oxford, Ohio; 
Blaine, a student at Washington and Jefferson 
College; Rose, also at the Western Female Semi 
nary, at Oxford, Ohio; and Ella and John, in the 
Union School of Washington. Mrs. Aiken's fa 
ther, Matthew Blaine, lives al Beallsville, Penn. 
His father, Leonard Blaine, was one of the old 
lime Scotch Irish "School Master-.." He did good 

serv ce in i he line of his profession tor man\ years 

in the eastern end of this countv. 




\ILLIAM 1IOSACK PAXTON, of the firm 
of Paxton Brothers, a highly respected 
citizen of Canonsburg, is a descendant of 
one of the oldest families in Washington 
county. Penn. 

John Paxton, grandfather of subject, was a na 
tive of York county, and came to Washington 
county in 1782. He married Martha Paxton, also 
a native of York, who, when a child, crossed the 
mountains on horseback, in comine; to Washington 
county. After their marriage, Mr and Mrs. Pax 
ton settled in Chartiers township, where they died. 
The children born of their union were: Thomas 
(who married Miss Jane Mills), Eliza (who mar 
ried John Nesbit, and lived on a farm in Chartiers 
township, where she and her husband died; they 
had no children), Isaac, Samuel (who married Miss 
Harsha, by whom he had two sous and one daugh- 
ter) and John. 

John Paxton, father of subject, was born in Can- 
ton township, September 10, 1810. He worked on 
his father's farm until about sixteen years of age, 
and then went to Washington, Penn., where he 
learned the saddle and harness trade, which he fol- 
lowed exclusively until 1850, when, in partnership 
with Matthew Wilson, he engaged in butchering 



232 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



and stock dealing. He was a man of more than 
ordinary ability and energy, traits of character that 
manifested themselves at an early date. When a 
small boy, he, in company with a sister, raised a 
crop of oats, threshed them with a Mail, and carried 
them on horseback to Washington, where they sold 
them. Money was scarce in those days and strict 
economy was practiced, one pair of shoes being 
made to last a year. Mr. Paxton married Mrs. 
Elizabeth (Wilson) Power, a widow, and daughter 
of Henry and Jane (Dill) Wilson. By her first 
marriage Mrs. Power had two daughters, Margaret 
and Anna Power. Margaret Power married Thomas 
Bell. He went to California in 1852, during the 
gold fever, and died there in 1855. To this union 
was born one daughter, Anna. Mrs. Bell, after 
her husband's death, lived with her stepfather's 
family until her death, which occurred June 6, 

1889. Anna Power married David Hart, and they 
made their home with William and Oliver L. Pax- 
tun, in Canonsburg. 

Henry and Jane (Dill) Wilson, parents of Mrs. 
Johu Paxton, lived on a farm in South Strabane 
township. They were members of the Presbyterian 
Church. Four sous and two daughters were born 
to them, viz. : Dill (a farmer by occupation, who 
married but had no children), Matthew (who 
learned the saddle and harness trade with his 
brother-in-law, John Paxton), Thomas (who grad- 
uated from Jefferson College, studied for the min 
istry, graduated in theology, became a Presbyterian 
minister, and married Miss Margaret Sanders, of 
Baltimore, and by her had two sons, Morris and 
Calvin D., both of whom are Presbyterian minis- 
ters), Samuel J. ( who graduated from Washington 
College and at Allegheny Theological Seminary, 
and was for many years, and at the time of his 
death, professor of theology in Allegheny Theolog- 
ical Seminary; he had one son and two daughters, 
viz.: Robert D., a lawyer in Allegheny county,, 
unmarried; Catherine and Jane, both of whom are 
married), Jane (who married Louis Guthrie a 
tailor of Moundsville, W. Va. ), and Elizabeth (who 
was first married to Mr. Power and afterward to 
John Paxton). 

Mr. and Mrs. John Paxton were members of the 
Presbyterian Church. He died December 24, 

1890, at the age of eighty-one. Mrs. Paxton was 
born December 10, 1809, and died October 29, 
1858. Their marriage was blessed with seven 
sons and two daughters, a brief history of whom 
follows: (1) Wilson N. Paxton graduated from 
Jefferson College in 1856, went South as a teacher, 
and after returning to Canonsburg, Penn., read 
law. He was admitted to the liar of Allegheny 
county, and practiced his profession in Pittsburgh. 
In 1862 he enlisted in Company G, One Hundred 
and Fortieth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served 



three years as second lieutenant. He was taken 
prisoner at Gettysburg on the second day of the 
tight, carried to Libby Prison, and remained there 
and at other prisons twenty months. He was 
promoted to the captaincy of his company, and is 
now in the pension office at Washington, D. C. 
He married Miss Emily J. Newkirk, but has no 
children. (2) Thomas Paxton is engaged in the 
butcher aud cattle business. He enlisted in Com- 
pany D, Tenth Kegimeut, P. R. V. C. Reserves, in 
April, 1861, and was killed at Spottsylvania, May 
9, 1NI>4, being shot through the bowels while do- 
ing picket duty. He was never married. (3) Mar- 
tha Jane Paxton died January 24, 1890, unmar 
ried. (4) John R. Paxton graduated from Jeffer 
son College with honors. At the time of the com 
mencement of the Civil war, in 1861, ho was in 
the junior class at college. He enlisted in Com- 
pany G, One Hundred and Fortieth Pennsylvania 
Volunteers; Captain Frazier, of this company, was 
professor in Jefferson College. At the close of the 
war Mr. Paxton came home and re-entered Jeffer- 
son College, where he graduated. He then entered 
the Western Theological Seminary at Allegheny, 
graduated there, and alno at Princeton Theological 
Seminary. He married Miss Mary L. Lindsay, of 
Allegheny. His first charge was Churchville, 
Maryland, from there to Harrisburg, and then to 
Washington, D. C. He is now minister of the 
West Presbyterian Church, New York City. His 
marriage was blessed by four children, of whom 
one son and one daughter are now living. (5) 
William Hosack, subject of our sketch. (6) Oliver 
L. Paxton, who was born March 23, 1848, and 
educated in the common schools. He is engaged 
in buying and shipping stock, in partnership with 
his brother, William Hosack. (7) Mary E. Paxton 
married Rev. W. F. Conner, a Methodist minister, 
of Johnstown, Penn. To them have been born 
two daughters, Mabel and Bessie. (8) Matthew H. 
Paxton was born in 1854. He entered Jefferson 
Academy, and completed his education at La Fay- 
ette, Penn. He was appointed assistant pay- 
master of the Government under Maj. Keefer, and 
traveled over the Northwest and Southwest. He 
was married in Walla Walla, Wash., and was 
stationed for a time in Newport, Ky., but dislik- 
ing to travel, he resigned his position as assistant 
paymaster, and located in Walla Walla, where lie 
has been elected county assessor and appraiser 
three times, and where he owns land and is en- 
gaged in the real-estate business. 

William Hosack Paxton, the subject of this 
biographical sketch, was born March 9, 1846, in 
Canonsburg. Politically, he is a Republican. 
Mr. Paxton ranks among the prominent business 
men of Canonsburg, and is highly respected both 
in social and commercial circles. 



WASHINGTOA COUA r) 



233 



, EV. GEORGE McDONALD, the hading 
character in this sketch, was horn February 



V 

\ 25, 1825, in Donegal township. Washing- 
J] ton Co., Penn., near West Alexander. 

v George McDonald, his grandfather, was 

a native of Scotland, from either Rosshire or 
Sutherlandshire, and related to Flora McDonald, 
the heroine of two dynasties and two continents. 
| Flora McDonald in her youth saved the life of 
the last of t lie Stewarts. She afterward emigrated 
to North Carolina. Her husband and son being 
made officers of the Highland Regiment raised for 
the defense of their King, she gave her five sons 
and sun in-law for thecause, accompanied them to 
camp, and encouraged them to tight for their 
King. | George McDonald's ancestors were the 
Lords of the Isles off the west of Sent land for cent- 
uries before these islands became subject to the 
king of Scotland. Grandfather McDonald was 
twice married: first to Miss Gordon, and they had 
one sou William. After the death of his tirst 
wife, he married Barbara McDonald, the result of 
which marriage was two sons. John and George. 
He (grandfather) immigrated to America in t he- 
good ship "Janet," in 1773, and located on the 
Potomac mar Mount Vernon. After the close 
iif the war for Independence, he with his family 
crossed the Alleghanies, and purchased a farm on 
Chartiers creek, near the present county home. 
Here his son John was born. There he remained 
from 1780 to 1792, when he purchased and moved 
to a farm in East Finley township, south of Clays 
ville, where he passed the remaining years of his 
life. He was a most devotedly pious man, and act 
ive in the building up of the church in his region. 
A Presbyterian of the regular Scotch type, and 
among the founders of the Presbyterian Church of 
West Alexander, he never let worldly affairs inter- 
fere with his religious duties. Not only was he 
punctual in attendance on the means of grace, 
but watchful for the peace and prosperity of Zion. 
He was known as the "Scotch singer," and often 
led the people in the service of song. He died 
November 25, 1811, and was laid to rest beside his 
wife, who had preceded him. in the church burial 
ground at West Alexander. 

John McDonald, son of George, was born in 
1788, in Chartiers township, Washington Co., 
Penn., but in early life went with his parents to 
their new home in East Finley township. In his 
early manhood he married Margaret Byers, of the 
same county, daughter of Thomas and Margaret j 
(Shannon) Byers, the former of whom was a son of , 
Samuel Byers, who was born in Chester county, 
Penn. , where the connection had resided for | 
generations. Samuel was there married to Jane 
White, and their children were: William (who set- 
tied near Maysville, Ky.), Samuel, James, Thomas 
Ebenezer (of Mercer county), Andrew, Nancy and 



Rachel. Samuel Byers, Sr. , came west from 
Chester county in 1777, and located on a farm 
near Canonsburg. He was a stanch Presbyterian 
and did good work in planting the church in that 
region. Thomas, the son, with his wife was most 
courageous in battling with danger in their new- 
home in East Finley, because of the attacks of 
Indians. The following are the names of their 
children: John, a physician; Sarah, wife of Adam 
W'ylie. M. D. ; Thomas, a farmer, married to Mar- 
garet Hamilton; Jane, wife of David Stewart, 
Margaret, wife of John McDonald; Anne, wife of 
Andrew Yates; James, a fanner, married to Mary 
Stevenson; Nancy, wife of John Brice, a farmer. 
Rachel, wife of Hugh Wilson, a merchant; Samuel. 
a farmer, married to Anne Wilson, and William, 
also a farmer, married to Rebecca McCurdy, and 
then to Miss Thorn. One sou and rive sons-in- 
law were ruling elders in the Presbyterian Church. 
Thomas Byers was a vigorous farmer and a prom 

inent business man. He was a bright exam] f 

Christian piety, In 1813 he was installed an 
elder in the Presbyterian Church of Wes) Alex 
ander, which office he tilled with great acceptance, 
being called the peacemaker of the Session. 

John McDonald after marriage remained four 
years on the old home farm in East Finley town 
ship. At that time he purchased a farm in Don- 
egal township, south of West Alexander, where he 
passed the remaining years of his life. The fol- 
lowing are the names of their children: Thomas 
(deceased), Barbara (wife of Thomas Frazier, 
Esq.), Mary S.. Eliza J., George, John McO, 
Thomas, William and Rachel M. , all three de- 
ceased. Mr. McDonald was always in keeping 
with the advance of the age, and being a friend of 
liberal education, gave all his children favorable 
opportunities for mental culture in the academy at 
West Alexander. He often tilled offices of trust in 
the community. After the death of his wife in 
May, 1887, he moved to West Alexander, remain 
ing there till his death, December 11, 1868. But 
his example in the ohnrch shone most conspicuous. 
He made profession of his faith in early life. In 
1828 he was elected an elder, and about the same 
time Sabbath school superintendent, both of which 
offices he filled forty years. Of him his last pastor 
(Rev. W\ H. Lester, Sr.. D. D.) writes: "He was 
a wise counselor and a man in whom the pastor 
could safely confide; warm-hearted and true in his 
devotiou to the church; a faithful student of the 
Word of God, and prompt in the discharge of 
Christian duty, he will long be remembered by the 
people as a truly devoted and pious man. His 
Godly life was au ornament to religion. His most 
special gift was prayer. He loved the Savior and 
the church; but in prayer he excelled. He would 
take the congregation in the arms of his faith, and 
lay them down at the mercy seat for a blessing. 



234 



UASlflMlTO.X COC XT)-. 



His words were so plain and Scriptural; his tones so 
simple, childlike and tender, it could only have 
been the Spirit making intercession. Deeply 
moved himself, he deeply moved others. He was 
pre-eminently a man of prayer. He gave his ouly 
two surviving sous to the ministry." 

Of each of the sons the following is a brief rec- 
ord: Each (of the sons) labored on the farm with 
their father till entering their life work, as oppor- 
tunity afforded, he being a vigorous farmer. They 
both were educated in the West Alexander (Penn. ) 
Academy, in the branches belonging to the college 
course, and each labored with their father on the 
farm. Rev. George McDonald, after having com- 
pleted the classical course pursued in college, at 
West Alexander Academy, engaged for some years 
in teaching in the public schools, and afterward 
taught two and a half years in the academy of 
West Alexander. During this period he coin 
menced the study of theology under Dr. John 
McCluskey, his pastor, and completed the course of 
study under Rev. William H. Lester, D. D., Dr. 
McCluskey' s successor. In April. 1S57, he was 
licensed to preach the Gospel by the Presbytery 
of Washington. Soon after licensure he received 
a call to the Presbyterian Church of Beallsville, 
Ohio, where he continued to labor more than 
twenty -five years, giving a portion of his time to 
the churches of Woodsfield and Powhatan, Ohio. 
In the winter of 1883, he received and accepted a 
call to the church of Upper Ten Mile, Prosperity, 
Penn., and continued his labors till May 20, 1890. 
Since his resignation of the pastorate at Ten Mile 
he resides at West Alexander, and is interested in 
evangelistic work, not feeling sufficiently vigorous 
to assume the full responsibility of the pastoral 
work. Mr. McDonald was married, May 20, 1858, 
to Martha S. Blayney, of West Virginia. The 
following is a brief account of their children: 
Naunie Maggie is the wife of Elmer Ellsworth 
Miller, a merchant of Beallsville, Ohio (she grad- 
uated from Steubenville Female Seminary in 1879); 
John M. , a physician, was a studeut of Washing- 
ton and Jefferson (Penn.) College (afterward he 
attended Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, 
and graduated in April, 1885; he is married to 
Ada C. Baker, of Barnesville, Ohio, and they now 
reside in Columbus, Ohio; he is a Presbyterian and 
a Republican); Rev. Charles H. graduated from 
Washington and Jefferson College in the class of 
1886 (the same year he entered Union Theological 
Seminary (N. Y.), from which he graduated in 
1889, was licensed and ordained in 1889, and 
went under commission of the Board of Home 
Missions to Alexandria, S. Dak., where he labored 
two years. Early in 1892 he received and ac 
cepted a call to the pastorate of the First Congre- 
gational Church of Woodbridge. N. J. He was 
married November 24. 1892, to Mary M. Bell, only 



daughter of James R. and Mary C. Bell, of West 
Alexander); Mary Elizabeth, the youngest, has at- 
tended the Washington Female Seminary (she is 
still at home with her parents, and is giving con- 
siderable attention to music). Like the parents 
the children all take great delight in music, and 
are bles-sed with great power of voice. Mr. Mc- 
Donald being an instructor of music, led the choir 
of the old home church for several years. 

Of him another friend (Rev. W. H. Lester, Sr. i 
writes: "Mr. McDonald's ministry was marked 
by faithfulness in labors, and witnessed precious 
ingatherings. Thoroughly evangelical in spirit, 
and Biblical in his pulpit ministrations, his aim 
has been the conversion of souls and the building 
up of Christians in the faith. He has also beeu 
a self-sacrificing and faithful pastor, thus making 
full proof of his ministry. Seldom was his seat 
vacant in the church courts. In each of the con- 
gregations to which he ministered, he left the testi- 
monials of a truly devoted minister of the Gospel." 
And yet another friend thus says of him: "Rev. 
George McDonald inherited (as did also his wife) 
the sturdy character of their Scotch and Scotch - 
Irish ancestry, and in early life received careful 
religious training. At the age of twenty-one he 
m :de profession of his faith in Christ. At nine- 
teen years of age he entered on his classical course 
in West Alexander Academy, and after completing 
the full course of study, he was for some time 
actively engaged in the public school department; 
later was for two years and a half a teacher in the 
West Alexander Academy. In 1853 he commenced 
the study of theology under Rev. John McCluskey, 
D. D., licensed by the Presbytery of Washington in 
1857, and was ordained by the Presbytery of St. 
Clairsville in April, 1800. Soon after licensure he 
took charge of the congregation of Beallsville, 
Ohio, of which he was the installed pastor tdl 
April, 1883, giving for most of that period a por- 
tion of his time to the congregations of Woodsfield 
and Powhatan as stated supply. In 1883 he was 
called to the church of Upper Ten Mile, Penn., 
where he labored more than seven years. He now 
resides in West Alexander, his native place, with 
his noble wife, who has always been a source of 
strength and comfort to him in his work. They 
were both fine singers, and led the choir of West 
Alexander Presbyterian Church for a number of 
years. Their musical talent was valuable to them, 
especially in the Sabbath-school, where they were 
always prominent and active, he as superintendent 
and Bible teacher, and she in charge of the infant 
department, until the loss of her hearing compelled 
her in later years to give up the work she so dearly 
loved. She had peculiar tact for winning and 
interesting little ones, and was never more at home 
than when surrounded by her little flock. Her mem- 
ory will always be green in the hearts of the many she 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



235 



hail taught, who will see her no more in this world. 
Her faithful Bowing will cause many, besides her 
children, to rise up and call her blessed. Mr. 
McDonald was accustomed to instruct, free, the 
Sabbath-school and any others who ^wished, in 
music, and thus was instrumental in having ex- 
ceptionally good singing in the school. He was also 
very successful in training for special exercises, and 
had much executive ability. Always deliberate 
being lirm in his convictions and of unalterable 
purpose, with careful outlook, he seldom failed 
to accomplish what he undertook. 

"His ministry was. richly blessed with signals of 
Divine approval, by several revivals occurring 
under his pastorate. The influence of his preach 
ing and example was for righteousness, in build 
ing up a moral, God-fearing and Sabbath-loving 
people. Several ministers have gone out from 
under his pastorate. His labors, particularly in 
his first field, were arduous and exposing, but 
were performed cheerfully in honor of Him whom 
he served. The seed thus faithfully sown will 
bring forth fruit to be gathered by other reapers. 
He still takes delight in Evangelistic work, and re 
joices in any opportunity to do service for the 
Master. He has been a faithful and unobtrusive 
minister of Christ, and is regarded universally, by 
those who know him, with marked esteem aud love." 

Rev. John McClusky McDonald, after complet 
ing his academic studies, entered the Northwestern 
Seminary of Chicago, 111. (now the McCormick 
Theological Seminary), from which he graduated 
in April, 18(36; was licensed April 18, 1865, by the 
Presbytery of Chicago; was ordained at Beaver 
Dam by the Presbytery of Winnebago. June 27, 
1866. He has been a home missionary; labored 
at Winneconne (Wis.), Algona (Iowa), Waynesville 
(111.), Carleton, Belvidere, Hubbell and Hopewell 
Church (Neb.), and Ulysses and other points in 
Kansas, the last named being his present field of 
labor. He has been faithful in sowing the seed, 
and been cheered by the ingatheriug of precious 
fruit. Mr. McDonald was married April 25, 1871, 
to Janet Percy, of Ogdensburg, N. Y. , and t|^ey 
have been blessed with six children: George 
Arthur, Kenneth Percy, Gilmer Byers, Raymond 
April, Rossmond May, and J. McClusky (the last 
named being deceased). Mr. McDonald takes a 
deep interest in public affairs. In politics he is a 
Republican, and, like Scotch-Irish generally, he 
could be nothing else but a Presbyterian. 



ffULIUS P. MILLER, attorney at law, Wash- 
ington, is a native of the county, having 
rjj been born May 22, 1839, in Hopewell town- 
^^ ship, and is descended from a stalwart North 
of-Ireland family. 
His paternal great-grandmother, then a widow 



with sixteen sons, came from the shores of Erin to 
those of Columbia, and established a new home in 
Washington county. Penu., where she died. One 
of the sons. Patrick Miller, bought, in 1810, the 
first piece of land in Hopewell township, where he 
carried on farming the remainder of his life, dying 
in 1830. He was the first superintendent of the 
Upper Buffalo Presbyterian Sabbath school. He 
was married to Margaret Templeton, and they had 
children as follows: Thomas, of whom mention 
is made further on; Margaret, wife of Col. Mc 
Xulty; Hannah, married to James Montford, of 
Washington county, which family is extinct (James 
Montford. son of .lames and Hannah, was captain 
of the company in which our subject served during 
the Civil war. and afterward he was appointed 
assistant assessor of Internal Revenue): Eliza. 
married to Rev. James Marquis; Mary, who never 
married, and Matthew all deceased. 

Thomas Miller, on leaving school, attended 
Washington College and Indiana University, 
graduating from the latter institution in 1831, 
when he went to Lexington. Kv . where he taught 
school for a time, and then moved to Missouri, 
having been persuaded to proceed thither by a 
prominent Missourian, James S. Rollins, who had 
been a fellow-student of his at both the college and 
university. Here Mr. Miller founded a school 
which afterward developed into the University of 
Missouri, at Columbia, Mo. On account of im- 
paired health he set out on a trip to Mexico, but 
died on the Plains, and was buried in New Mexico, 
at Round Mound. 

Matthew Miller, father of our subject, was a 
farmer by occupation, and in 1838 was mariied to 
Mary McNulty, by whom he had two children. 
Julius P., and a daughter that died in infancy. In 
1843 the father died at the age of thirty years, and 
the mother married again, the result of this second 
union being three children; she died March 23, 
1890, aged seventy-six years, and is buried in 
Washington cemetery. 

Julius P. Miller was but four years old when 
his father was called from earth, aud in the follow- 
ing year (1844) he was taken to West Middletown, 
where he attended thecommon schools, subsequent- 
ly takiQg a course at an academy in West Virginia. 
In the fall of 1801 he enlisted in Company A, One 
Hundredth P. V. I., serving three years, chiefly 
with the Ninth Army Corps. In 1870 he was ap- 
pointed deputy collector of Internal Revenue, for 
Washington county, serving until 1872, when, at 
the State election, he was elected prothonotary of 
the county, taking the office in January, 1873. He 
was re elected in 1875. During his second term 
in the prothonotary's office, Mr. Miller studied 
law, and in October, 1879, he was admitted to the 
bar, since which time he has been successfully 
practicing his chosen profession in Washington, of 



236 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



which city he lias been a resident since 1870. In 
November, 1864, Mr. Miller was united in marriage 
with Miss Harriet Hamilton, daughter of Dr. A. 
C. Hamilton, a practicing physician in the borough 
of West Middletown, and to this union ten chil- 
dren were born, viz. : Horatio H. (cashier of the 
First National Bank of Claysville), Mary Emma. 
Harry M., Julius P Martha S., Charles F., Anna 
B. and Ulysses Grant, all living in the county, and 
two unnamed that died in infancy. In politics 
Mr. Miller is a stanch Republican. 



THOMAS McKEAN, one of the retired sue 
cessful merchants of the borough of Wash- 
ington, is a native of the county, having 
been born September 14, 1820, in Amwell 
township. The first of the family to come 
to Washington county was Robert McKean, father 
of the above, who was born February 12, 1795, in 
County Tyrone, Ireland. In 1815 he came to 
America by way of Canada, landing at Montreal, 
thence proceeding to Washington, this county, 
where he lived until 1820, in which year he moved 
into Amwell township, on a farm, and in 1828 re- 



turned to 

started ou 

cholera while on the way. In 

coming: to Washington county 



Washington borough. In 1832 he 
a trip to Philadelphia, but died of 



1817, soon after 
he married Mrs. 
Mary McClintock, formerly Mrs. McGowan, who 
had several children by her first husband, all now 
deceased. By her second marriage there were 
four children, viz.: Mary, who was a Presbyterian 
missionary to the Creek Indians at Tallahassee, In- 
dian Territory, and died there January 21, 1861; 
Thomas, our subject; Alexander, who died in 
Washington, Penn.. March 27, 1890, and whose 
family are still living here; and Sarah, who died in 
infancy. The mother was called from earth March 
17, 18(57, at the advanced age of eighty-nine years, 
at the time living with her son Thomas. 

Th nnas McKean, of whom this sketch chiefly 
treats, was eight years old when the family came 
to live in the borough of Washington. He re- 
ceived his education partly at the schools of his 
native township, and partly in Washington, and 
learned manufacturing tobacco and cigars, which 
he carried on, wholesale and retail, for forty-five 
years, opening out for his own account September 
25, 1843, and retiring from same in 1888. His 
original stand was the room now occupied as the 
office of the Washington Reporter. At his retire- 
ment he was about the only man in Washington 
who was in business there when he commenced in 
1843. On March 14, 1844, Mr. McKean married 
Fannie Jane, daughter of Samuel Snodgrass, a 
farmer who came from Lancaster county, Penn. , 
at an early date. He died of cholera at West 
Alexander, this county, in 1832, and his wife in 



Washington borough, in 1840. They were the 
parents of three children, as follows: Fannie Jane; 
Mary Margaret, now the widow of John V. Wil- 
son, a carpeuter of Washington, who died July 2. 
1870; and William, who died in March, 1840. 

By the marriage of Thomas and Fannie J. Mc- 
Kean. there were ten children, of whom the follow- 
ing is a brief record: Mary Ellen is married to 
Rev. J. C. McClintock, and lives in Burlington, 
Iowa; John A. is a physician at Washington, this 
county: Maria is the wife of Hon. W. J. Davis, 
of Goshen, Ind. ; William is in Grand Rapids, 
Mich., a traveling salesman for J. V. Farwell & 
Co., of Chicago: James is married to Jennie D. 
Ackelson, and lives at Abilene, Kans. ; George is 
teller in Wells, Fargo & Co. 'shank at San Fran- 
cisco. Cal. ; Annie is the wife of Rev. W. P. White, 
a Presbyterian minister at Germantown, Penn.; 
Elizabeth is the wife of Homer U. Seaman, jewel- 
er, Pittsburgh, Penn.; Thomas C. is clerk in a gents' 
furnishing business, Pittsburgh. Penn., and Ber- 
nard is an insurance agent at No. 135 Broadway. 
New York. 

Mr. McKean is one of the well-known citizens of 
Washington. His place of business and home. No. 
104 and 160 South Main street, was built by him in 
1854. and he has lived on the Square ever since 
coming to the borough. Politically he is a Re- 
publican, and has served as school director six 
years, and secretary during that time. For twen- 
ty seven years he has been a trustee and treasurer 
of the Washington Feinale Semi nary. Forty years 
ago he was a member of the Sons of Temperance, 
and continued so until they disbanded. Since 
1846 he has been a member of the First Presby 
terian Church, of which he was trustee for twelve 
years, and since 1804 has been an elder. For 
forty years he was secretary and treasurer of the 
Sunday school. He has been a director of the 
First National Bank of Washington for more than 
thirty years, and is now the vice president of that 
financial house. Mr. McKean was interested in 
the establishment of a board of health for his bor- 
ough, which prompted him, without compensation, 
to keep a complete record of the deaths in Mash 
ington and vicinity, including names, ages and 
causes of death; commencing June 20, 1850, and 
up to January 1, 1893, a record of 3,240 deaths 
has been made by him. 



STEPHEN L. BLACHLY, M. D., one of the 
oldest and most skillful practitioners in 
Washington county, is descended from a 
long line of distinguished men, eminent in 
the profession; but among this galaxy of brilliant 
medical lights we must look in vain for one whose 
skill in any case surpassed that of his descendant, 
the gentleman of whom we write, who is not only 








^>^: 




u\\siii.\<;ri>\ cor.XTY 



239 



an ornament to the modern school of medicine, but 
a worthy and honored representative of a race of 
experl physicians. 

Dr. Ebenezer (1) Blachly, the first physician in 

the family, was a son of Aaron and Man (Dodd) 
Blachly, and lived in Huntington, Suffolk Co., 
Long Island. His children were: Elizabeth, Eben- 
ezer (2), Joseph, Benjamin and Daniel, of whom 
Ebenezer (2), born in 1709, entered his father's 
profession, and married Hannah Miller, who bore 
him the following children: Francis, Zopher, Eben- 
ezer (3), Miller, Sarah, Cornelius. Mary and Marcy, 
The son Ebenezer (3), born in 1735, was a surgeon 
in the Revolution. He married Mary Wickham, and 
they had twelve children, live of whom were also 
physicians. He died in 1805, and his son Eben 
e/.er ( 1), born in 1760, entered the war of the Rev- 
olution before he had reached the required age, and 
took au active part as surgeon throughout the con- 
flict, after which he married Elizabeth Spencer, 
and reared a family of nine children: Nancy, 
Ebenezer S., Henry W. (fatherof subject i. Mary J., 
Juliana, Bayard P., Eliza, Joseph W. and Oliver; 
with the latter two their mother passed the dec! in 
ing years of her life. 

Dr. Henry Wickham Blachly was born in Pater- 
son, N. J., April 17, 1780. He first studied medi- 
cine with his father, finishing in New York City. 
and finally settled in Washington county. Penn. 
On January 9, 1806, he married Hannah Loveridge, 
who bore him twelve children: Ebenezer S. , a 
graduate of Jefferson Medical College, Philadel- 
phia, who practiced thirty years in Waynesburgb, 
Greene Co , Penn. (he was twice married, first time 
to Martha Hanna, who bore him live children, and 
after her death he married Elizabeth Allison; but 
one of his children grew to maturity — Byard Mil 
ton Blachly, M. D., who practiced for about thirty 
years in W T aynesbuigh. Creene Co., Penn.. where 
his father practiced); Milton Blachly died at the 
age of sixteen; Eveline Blachly married Dr. Will- 
iam B. Porter (they died leaving three children — 
two daughters and one son, John H. Porter, who 
was a physician and died soon after completing his 
medical studies); Maria J. Blachly married Dr. Lu- 
tellus Lindley, of Connellsville, Fayette Co., Penn. 
(she died leaving one son, Dr. Henry B. Lindley, 
of Perrysville, Allegheny Co. , Penn.); Stephen L. 
(subject of sketch); Eliza Blachly married John 
Milton Lindley (he died leaving three children: 
Byard, a banker and lawyer in Winfield. Iowa; Col- 
lin M., a physician in Zollersville, Penn., and 
Sarah); Oliver B. Blachly married Ellen Cracraft, 
by whom he had five children: Byron, Henry, Oli- 
ver, Mary and Howard (his second wife was Ella 
Hunt); Joseph Warrin Blachly was a physician 
who practiced successfully in his native county for 
a number of years (he was married to Eliza Min- 
ton, by whom he had four children: Maria, Ella, 



Joseph Warrin ami Frank, a physician practicing 
at Clarksville, Penn.); Lucilla Caroline Blachly 
married T. N. Day, and their living children are: 
Henry B., Homer (a physician practicing at Avoca, 
Iowa), and Cora L. ; Harriet Newel Blachly mar 
lied Harvey Lindley, and their children are: I [enry 
B. (who married Sarah Van Kirk l. Ann Eliza (mar 
ried to Sal. C'ozad), Oscar. Howard and A. Lincoln; 
Henry W. Blachly, a physician who practiced foi 
many years at Cavett, Ohio, died in 1889 (his wife 
was Caroline Cracraft, and they had two children 
Mary, married to Dr. Emerick, and Henry \\ . . a 
lawyer of Van Wert, Ohio); Hanuah Louisa Blachl) . 
the youngest of the family, never married, and 
lives at Sparta, Penn The father of this famih 
died at the age of sixty two years, having practiced 
medicine forty years in Washington county; the 

mother passed fr< arth in 1SS7, on her ninety 

seventh birthday, and they are buried at Pros 
peritv. 

Stephen L. Blachly, the subject proper of this 
memoir, was horn December 11, 181,"), in Sparta, 
Washington Co.. Penn. He read medicine with 
his father till twent) two years of age, and on ac- 
count of the prevalent T smallpox at that time 

was called upon to begin an active career before 
his preparatory stmh was fully completed. He 
was educated at Washington College, and later re 
ceived his degree from Jefferson Medical College, 
Philadelphia. On January 9, 1810, he was united in 
marriage with Sarah, daughter of Benjamin Lind 
ley. who was of Puritan descent, and to this union 
were born five children, viz. : two died in infancy : 
Mary Minerva, who has been twice married, first 
to Stephen J. Day. and after his decease to S. Mc- 
Vey, of Sparta; Henry Spencer, a druggist in 
Waynesburgh, Greene county, Penn., and Dr. 
Oliver L . in Sparta, who married Anna, daughter 
of Rev. John Sherrard. Mrs. Blachlj died No 
vember25, 18o7. and July 28, 1859, Dr. Blachly 
married Maria, daughter of James and Margaret 
Wade, of Fayette county, Penn. Dr. Blachly has 
resided in the sane- place over fifty years, and 
while engaged in general practice has become a 
skilled surgeon, and has always had an extensive 
practice; he has frequently been president of the 
Washington County Medical Society, of which he 
is one of the oldest members, and is also censor for 
the Eighth District of the State Medical Society of 
Pennsylvania, also a member of the American 
Medical Association, ami the Alumni Association of 
Jefferson Medical College. He has always had a 
very extensive practice, and he retired from active 
life in 1890. Physically he enjoys good health. 
He is about five feet ten inches in height; weighs 
190 pounds; is erect in stature; and has become a 
very strong man by exercise, and care, though he 
was not robust when young. His father was about 
the same height, but weighed 100 pounds. The 



240 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



Doctor never used intoxicating liquor; in his youth 
he commenced smoking, but gave it up. He has 
been a member of "Upper Ten Mile" Presbyterian 
Church fifty-eight years, and has been an elder in 
same thirty five years. 



J [AMES HEKRON was born September 18, 
1829, in North Strabane township, this 
| comity, and is a son of Joseph Herron, whose 
grandfather was a native of Ireland, and came 
with his family in an early day to America. 
His son James was born in County Down, Ireland. 
and came to America in the latter part of the last 
century, locating in North Strabane township, 
Washington Co., Penn., on the farm now occupied 
by his descendants. He was married to Rachel 
Reed, a resident of Ohio, who bore him children 
as follows: Charles, John, William, James, Robert, 
John, Joseph, Thomas and Rachel. Mr. Herron 
was an active Democrat, and in religion was a 
member of the Seceder Church. 

Joseph Herron was born, January 2, 1797, on 
his father's farm in North Strabane township, and 
received a common-school education. On January 

3, 1824, he was united in marriage with Margaret, 
daughter of Daniel Hastings, of Somerset town- 
ship, and the young couple made their permanent 
home on the old farm, where the following chil- 
dren were born and reared: Rachel, born Decem- 
ber 1,5, 1824; Robert, born September 30, 1826; 
James, born September 18, 1828; John, born July 
24, 1830; Sarah (Mrs. Jonathan L. Peese), born 
April 22, 1833; Joseph, born December 8, 1834; 
Margaret A. (Mrs. Robert Munnel). born October 

4, 1837; and Elizabeth M. (Mrs. John Herron), 
born October 6, 1842. In politics Mr. Herron was 
a Democrat, and served as judge of elections and 
school director, and was also a lieutenant in the 
militia. In religious connection he was a member 
and liberal supporter of the Seceder Church. He 
died January 25. 1852, and his wife on March 18, 
1854. Both are buried in the U. P. cemetery at 
Pigeon Creek. 

James Herron was born on the farm where he 
now resides, and attended the common schools 
until almost twenty-one years of age. He then 
commenced learning the carpenter's trade, which 
he followed several years in North Strabane and 
adjoining townships. On June 23, 1865, he was 
united in marriage with Emma, daughter of John 
Barr. a native of Ireland, who came to America 
with his parents when but twelve years of age. He 
was a son of John Barr, also a native of Ireland, 
and who was there married to Margaret Dickey, 
who bore him children as follows: William, John, 
Robert, Mary (Mrs. Andrew Jackson) and Margaret 
(Mrs. Robert Patterson). The father of these 
children immigrated to America in an an early day, 



locating with his family in Somerset township, 
Washington Co., Penn., where the remainder of 
their lives was passed. He was a Democrat in 
his political preferences, and in religion a member 
of the Seceder Church. 

John Barr passed his youth on the home farm 
in Somerset township, and was there married to 
Elizabeth, daughter of James Smith. Their chil- 
dren were John A., James 8., Margaret D. (Mrs. 
James Rankin), Emma (Mrs. James Herron), 
Sarah J. (Mrs. William Pollock) and William A. 
In politics Mr. Barr was a Democrat, and served 
many years as justice of the peace. He was a 
member and one of the founders of the U. P. 
Church at Pigeon Creek, and served as an elder 
for years. He followed agricultural pursuits. 

After his marriage Mr. Herron settled on the 
home place in North Strabane township, where he 
has followed farming and stock raising. He and 
his family are members of the U. P. Church at 
Mt. Prospect. In politics he is a Democrat, and 
has served as school director and judge of elec 
tions. He is an enterprising and popular citizen. 



J 



ents 



lOSEPH S. HUNTER, a member of one of 
the oldest and most prominent families of 
Washington county, Penn., is a grandson of 
James Hunter, who was born of Irish par- 
about 1788, in eastern Pennsylvania. On 
June 21, 1810, James Hunter was united in mar- 
riage with Eleanor Garrett, and they reared the 
following family : Margaret (deceased), born April 
12, 1811; Susan (deceased), born October 24,1814; 
Elizabeth, bora April 13, 1818 (widow of Robert 
Marshall), living in East Fiuley township, this 
county; James J. and William G. Mrs. Hunter 
died, and on March 29, 1827, Mr. Hunter was mar 
ried to Sarah Clark, of Buffalo township, this 
county, who bore him two children: John Clark, 
born December 24, 1827, and Sarah Ann, born 
October 6, 1830, both now deceased. This wife 
also died, and November 2, 1848, Mr. Hunter was 
married to Jane Welsh, who died in 1888. Soon 
after his first marriage he located in Buffalo town- 
ship, Washington county, following farming and 
distilling until 1839, when he settled on the farm 
in East Finley township which is now the prop- 
erty of his son, James J. Hunter, where he died in 
the year 1858. 

James J. Hunter was born October 26, 1820, 
in Buffalo township, Washington Co., Penn., and 
came with his father's family to East Finley town- 
ship, where he began life in 1843, doing farm work 
for others, and cropping on his father's place. On 
October 19, 1845, he was married to Jane, 
daughter of Thomas Hutchisson, of East Finley 
township, and three children were born to them: 
Joseph S., born June 24, 1846 (farming in Frank- 



WASHINGTON COVh 71 



I'll 



1 in township); Thomas H., born Jnne 1 I. l s l^ (a 
farmer of Bast Finley township); and Jam. 
horn June 30, 1852 (a resident of Brilliant, Jef- 
ferson Co , Ohio). The mother of these children 
died in 1853, and on November 13, 1860, Mr 
Hunter was anited in marriage with Elizabeth. 
daughter of Gilbert Marshall, and the following 
children have been born to them: Mary B., bum 
March 27,1862; Jane A., born September 12, 1863, 
and Florence M . born July 27, 1865. After his 
first marriage Mr. Hunter lived in West Fin ley 
township, but finally (in lM'il) settled to Fast 
Finlej township, where he now resides. In politi- 
cal relations he is a Republican, and in religion he 
and his wife are members of the United Presbyte 
rian Church of East Finley township. 

Joseph S. Hunter w as born in West Finley 
township, and remained on the home place until he 
was twentj eight years of age, obtaining his edu- 
cation at the common-schools. On February II. 
ISTo. he was united in marriage with Mary P., 
daughter of J. W. Patterson, and to their union 
were born four children: William W . James H.. 
Jennie A., and Clark P. After their marriage the 
young couple settled in West Finley township, re- 
maining there four years, when thej removed to 
their present farm, which consists of 20 ' acre- of 
well-improved land. He is a member and liberal 
supporter of the United Presbyterian Church at 
Dog Wood Grove. In political life he is a stanch 
Republican, and is one of the most, energetic work- 
ers of his party in the township, although he has 
never accepted political preferment 



(OHN G. POGUE is one of the few men who 
can look back upon their past and see no fail- 
ures to regret, but find that step by step, and 
year by year, they have risen higher on the 
ladder of success, until the prime of life has 
found them on the topmost round, with leisure to 
pause and take a retrospective view. John (i 
Pogue is a son of William Pogue, of whose father 
we only know that he was of Scotch ancestry, and 
(at the time of the birth of his only son, William, ) 
a resident of Baltimore, Md. 

William Pogue was born in 1797, in Baltimore, 
Md., and in early life learned the trade of a tobac- 
conist. He was well educated and fond of read- 
ing. The father dying when William was a small 
boy, the latter was cared for by his mother, who 
afterward moved to Buffalo township, Washington 
county, and purchased a small piece of land about 
three miles north of Taylorstown. The son fol- 
lowed farming, and also worked a small coal bank 
located on the place. He was afterward married 
to Sarah Allison, who was born in 1786, and they 
had five children: James (who died at the age of 
forty -seven years, in Cadiz, Ohio), Susan (deceased 



in infancy). John G. (subject of this sketch), Will- 
iam (who died in Canton. 111., at the age of forty 
years) and Sarah Ann (who died in Buffalo town 
ship, this county i Mr. Pogue followed farming 
until thedeatb of his wife, which occurred in 1836. 
He then worked at his trade with George Black. 
of Washington. Penn. , and passed his later years 
with. his children. Politically he was a lifelong 
Democrat. Be died in 1859 

John G. Pogue was born March 28, 1824, in 

Buffalo township, this county, and when but eight 

yearsof age went to live with one j. iseph Alexander. 
With him he remained two year-. " doing chores " 
and attending the comm >n school, in the fall of 
1834 he mad.' his home with John C. Hanna. a 
farmer of Hopewell township, this county, and in 
1840 again entered the employ of Mr Alexander, 

with whom he remained until 1849. Meanwhile, 
this industrious youth embraced every opportunity 

to ure an education. He attended Franklin 

High School, which was conducted at the home of 
Major Waterings by W A. McKee; he also taught 
school five winters in West Virginia and Pennsyl 
vania. On October 25, 1848, Mr Pogue was united 
in marriage with Elizabeth Burt, who was born in 
August. 1824, a daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth 
(Dryden) Burt, who were both member- of old 
pioneer families. Mrs. Pogue and a sister, Mrs 
Xaney McKee, of Hopewell township, Washington 
county. are now the only living representatives of the 
family of ten children in Washington county, the 
others having settled in different places. Mr. and 
Mrs. Pogue have had the following children : Sarah 
Elizabeth (Mrs. John McCammon. of West Finley 
township), Fannie A. (Mrs. John Atkinson, of 
Brooke county, W. Ya.i. Joseph (residing in Wheel 
ing, W. Va.), Mary Jane i who died at the age of 
twelve years), William (living at home), Martha 
(Mrs Hiram Montgomery, of Donegal township). 
John J. (living with his parents), J. Burt and 
Anna May (both living at home). For -three years 
after his marriage Mr. Pogue lived as a tenant on 
the farm of J. C. Hanna. in Hopewell township, t his 
county. He then came to Donegal township, 
and rented a farm, locating about two and a half 
miles north of West Alexander, where he remained 
nineteen consecutive years. Several years before 
leaving this farm he had purchased an adjoining 
tract of 114 acres upon which he moved in 1803. 
By energetic toil and close economy, he soon saved 
enough money to again invest in land, and in 1868 
he bought the " Old McKeown " farm, lying just 
north of his previous purchase. In 1872 betook 
possession of the latter farm, and lias entirely re- 
modeled the residence and all the other buildings. 
He has few equals as an agriculturist, and his success 
has been enhanced by the invaluable aid of a care 
ful and economical wife. When he was first mar 
ried, Mr. Pogue owed $150, since which time he 



'.'4 2 



WASHING TON CO UNTY. 



has become one of the most successful and prom- 
inent farmers of Donegal township. Politically he 
was an ardent Abolitionist, and took a great inter- 
est in the freedom of the negroes. He is now a 
Republican, and has often held township offices, 
but has declined to enter in the more active war- 
fare of political life. In religions connection he and 
his wife are members of the U. P. Church of West 
Alexander. 



l(OHN S. BARR is a leading representative of 
.la well known family of Somerset township. 
fl Washington county, and an enterprising, 
successful and popular citizen of Canons- 
burg, serving his township and county in 
many ways, in addition to his usual duties as pri- 
vate citizen. 

His grandfather, John Barr, was a native of 
County Derry, Ireland, born in 1757, and died in 
1838. He was married to a Miss Dickey, to whom 
were born the following children: William, Johu, 
Robert, Archie (who died at the age of twelve 
years), Margaret (wife of Robert Pattison) and 
Mary (wife of Andrew Jackson). In 1816 Mr. 
Barr and family emigrated to America, and after 
a six weeks' voyage landed at Philadelphia, finally 
coming to Somerset township, Washington Co., 
Peun., where he purchased a farm, making there- 
on a permanent home, where he died in 1838. He 
was a member of the Seceder Church of Peters 
Creek, and on the organization of a new congrega- 
tion of the same denomination called Pigeon 
Creek, nearer his home, united with it, serving 
many years as elder. 

William Barr was born, in 1797, in County 
Derry, Ireland, and his youth was passed in his 
native land, where he vvas educated, becoming 
specially expert as a mathematician. In 1816 he 
came with his parents to America, and in 1826 was 
united in marriage with Mary, daughter of Hugh 
Boyd. Mr. Boyd and family, consisting of five 
children, came to America in 1824: Robert, Wil 
son (who preceded the rest of the family five years), 
Mary, Margaret and Bankhead. Both grand- 
parents were elders in the same church in Ireland, 
and both elders in the same congregations — Peters 
Creek and Pigeon Creek— in America. After his 
marriage William settled on a farm where his life 
was passed, and children born to him as follows: 
Johu S. (of whom a sketch is given below); Hugh 
and Eliza (Mrs. A. D. Williamson), living near 
Xenia. Ohio; Margaret (wife of James H. Dickey); 
William W. ; Bankhead Boyd; Mary (married to 
W. G. Garrett), and Martha Jane (deceased wife 
of William Berry). William Wilson Barr gradu- 
ated at Canonsburg in 1 S, r i6, studied theology at 
Xenia, Ohio; was called, accepted, and took charge 
in 1859 of the "Eighth United Presbyterian Church 



of Philadelphia, of which he is still pastor; Bank 
head enlisted as a soldier, in 1862, in Company (1, 
One Hundred and Fortieth Regiment, Pennsyl- 
vania Volunteers; was wounded at the Wilderness, 
and died at Alexandria, Va. , his remains being 
brought home and interred in Home cemetery. 
The father of this family was known as one who 
always acted from principle, and did what he con- 
scientiously thought was right. He was for many 
years identified with the Seceder Church of Pigeon 
Creek (now United Presbyterian), in which he was 
a ruling elder, and for many years led its praise 
service. He died in 1838, being followed by his 
life companion in 1876. 

John Scott Barr was born January 26, 1827, in 
Somerset township, this county, passing his earlv 
life at home. Receiving but a limited education 
(such as the winter schools at that time afforded), 
he has supplemented it by an extensive course of 
reading. On November 25, 1851 (Thanksgiving 
day), he embarked on the matrimonial sea in com 
pany with Mary, daughter of James Gibson, a well 
known citizen of Washington county. Two chil- 
dren were born to this union, the first dying in 
infancy. The mother died March 12, 1855, leav- 
ing an infant daughter of three weeks, who was 
given her mother's name, and is the wife of Rev. 
J. M. Duncan of the United Presbyterian Church 
at Richmond, Ohio. On January 26, 1865, John 
S. Barr was married to Mary S. Pattison, of Indi- 
ana, Penn., to whom three children were born, 
viz.: William Wilson (deceased), Archie John S. 
(deceased) and Martha Jane (wife of Rev. W. F. 
Weir, a Presbyterian minister of Toronto, Ohio). 
After the death of his father, which took place 
when he was less than twelve years of age, Mr. 
Barr took the principal managementof his father's 
farm, consisting of 110 acres, one payment to pay 
on that; but by hard work and economy, and with 
the aid of a good mother and the gracious favor of 
Almighty God, was added to the home place over 
200 acres more. The careful and attentive habits 
of his youth have attended his maturer years, and 
have secured for him a comfortable home. His in- 
stinctive uprightness in his dealings with his fel- 
low-men, charity for the worthy poor, and gener- 
ous support of all measures tending to promote 
the interests of Church and State, mark him as a 
man worthy of the esteem and confidence in which 
he is held by his friends and neighbors. 

In politics the subject of this sketch was first 
a Whig, then a Republican, and has held various 
township offices, serving six terms as school director, 
and in 1872 was elected commissioner of Washing- 
ton county, which office he filled very acceptably. 
In response to Gov. Curtin'scall for men to repel 
Lee's invasion of Maryland, he enlisted in a com 
pany at Canonsburg, which became part of the 
Sixteenth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, and 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



243 



equipped at Harrisburg, carried by rail toHagers- 
town and then marched toward Autietam expect 
ing to get to the battle field that evening; but 
night came on, and they encamped in a nice piece 
mI woods by the roadside, struck their tents and 
put out pickets. About dusk word came that 
they would be attacked by Imboden's Rebel cavalry 
thai night; a vote was taken whether they would 
retreat or stand their ground, and the result was 
that they should stay. Every gun was loaded, and 
about '•* o'clock the commissary wagon drove 
ii] i and a number of shots were fired into it; the 
mistake was soon discovered, no one was hurt, and 
no "rebs" came. After Lee's retreat into Virginia, 
they were disbanded and sent home. In May, 
1889, he was appointed a manager of the State Be 
form School at Morganza, for four years, by Gov- 
ernor Beaver. Here from 300 to 400 boys and 
about 10(1 girls are educated and taught some useful 
trades. In June, 1891, when the Citizens' Bank of 

Cauousbnrg was organized, he was elected oi I 

its directors. When sixteen years of age he united 
with the then Seceder Church of I'igeon Creek 
(now United Presbyterian) and was always an 
earnest worker, seeking her peace and prosperity. 
He was chosen an elder when thirty live \ ears of 
age, thus holding the place of lather and grand 
father. In April, 1888, he and his wife and 
family removed to their residence in Canonsburg, 
and united with the U. I'. Chartiers Church of that 
town. 




ILLIAM B. FLICK ranks among the 
most progressive citizens of Beallsville, 
and is a successful agriculturist. His 
father, Daniel Flick, was of German de- 
scent, and his ancestors settled in the Ligonier 
Valley many years ago. 

Daniel Flick was born in 1802, in Fayette county, 
Penn., and there learned the weaver's trade, be 
coming one of the first weavers in that locality. 
He was five times married: In 1822 he married 
Susanna Brown, who was born September 9, 1803, 
and settled in Waynesburg, Greene Co , Penn., 
where he followed hotel business, farming and 
mercantile pursuits; here Mrs. Flick died, leaving 
four children, of whom William B. is the only one 
now living. Daniel Flick next married Nancy Stew 
art. His third wife was Mrs. Nancy Haldeman, a 
widow; his fourth was Jane E. Cleaver, and for his 
fifth wife he married Mrs. Eleanor Freeman, widow 
of Louis Freeman. He died Marcli 18, 1871, at 
the age of sixty eight, on the farm in West Pike 
Run township, Washington Co., Penn., where he 
had moved in the spring of 1856. For a number 
of years he operated a keel boat in the transporta- 
tion of freight between Rice's Landing and Pitts- 
burgh, and was also a wagoner, carrying goods 



across the mountains from Baltimore to Greene 
county. 

William B. Flick, son of Daniel and Susanna 
(Brown) Flick, was born June 15, 1830, in Wa\ ues 
burgh, Greene Co., Penn., and began his education 
at a tender age, being carried by his sister to 
school when but three years old, in order to save 
time for the busy mother. On October 10, 1850, 
he was united in marriage with May Berryhill, a 
native of Greene county, Penn. She died leaving 
one son, William, who became an engineer, ami 
during a collision, November 5, L890, at Claysville, 
Washington county, was killed, having clung to 
his engine to the last Mr. Flick was married in 
1853 to Miss Maria Rhiuehart, who died leaving 
two children: Oscar (a resident of Greene county) 
ami an infant. In 1855 Mr. Flick came to West 
Pike Run township, Washington county, and on 
May 17, 1866, married his third wife in the person 
of Zobitha, daughter of James Irwin. Her only 
brother. James F. Irwin, is living in Virginia. 
Since coming to West L'ike Run township, Mr. 
Flick lias resided on his present farm, which is ]■> 
cated on the northern boundary of Beallsville. He 
is a successful agriculturist, and has for the past ten 
years made a specialty of breeding Shorthorn cat 
tie. Politically, he was formerly a Whig and 
Know-Nothing, but is now a Republican, and he 
is at present serving in the council of Beallsville 
borough. He has been a member of the I. O. O. F. 
for twenty years, and of the Encampment, and with 
all public enterprises he is prominently identified. 

The following reminiscences are from the pen of 
Mr. Flick: 

The old log school-house that I attended fir the first 
time, dow sixty years ago, was constructed of unhewn 
logs, and put together as you would build a pen. Small 
-tunes were sot on edge between the logs, and Hen 
dubbed with clay mortar. One log was sawed out to 
make room lor a sash in the west side, and on this sash 
was pasted greased paper. This old log school-house was 
abandoned and a new one put, up eight or ten years alter. 
1 whs carried by my sister to this old school-house. I 
would go to see it, and limit squirrels with my father, for it 

was a g 1 place for game. Now, as to the floor in this 

old school-house: it was laid with what was called 
puncheons in those days, wbich were split-out logs, 
dressed off as best could be done. This floor was not all 
over the room, for there was a space six feet square at the 
east end, for fire, and on the ground immediately above 
this place, over head, were joists to serve as bearings 
whereon to build a chimney. This chimney was, at tin- 
base, six feet square and tapered to the height desired, 
built out of split lath ami plastered with clay mortar. 
Clapboards were split "lit of oak timber, three and a half 
feet long, and laid down on poles; while the joists were 
covered with another clapboard. And then there was 
what was called a big pole to hold them down; there 
were no boards over head. As to seats, they were made 
of split puncheon, roughly made with legs. Three of 
these were placed around this square where the fire was, 
and as the pupils would get warm, they would retire to 
other benches, and others would then take their places at 
the tire. Daniel Flick, my father, was one of the first 
teamsters w b.0 made a Imsiness of going to Baltimore for 



244 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



goods before there was any railroad; and 1 may here 
state that while he was at Baltimore on one occasion, he 
learned that the B. & O. R. K. had twelve miles of road 
made, and would run three coaches, engine and tender to 
Elliot's Mills. The coaches were furnished with side 
seats running lengthwise. So my lather concluded to 
take a free ride. The B. & O. company had mules sta- 
tioned at the heavy grades to assist the engine in making 
grade. This was in spring of 1831. This engine and the 
coaches were placed on exhibition in the city of Pitts 
burgh among other old relics, and were destroyed by 
fire. 




\ILLIAM SWAN, son of Col. William 
Swan (who was a son of Timothy Swan, 
a Revolutionary soldier, and a native of 
County Down, Ireland, and Jane (Watson) 
Swan, of Westmoreland county, Penn.) and Mar- 
tha (French) Swan, daughter of Enoch and Mary 
(McElroy) French, of Chambersburg, Penn.. was 
born in Trumbull county. Ohio, May 11, 1826. 
His father, a soldier in the war of LSI 2, died din- 
ing the infancy of his son William, who was the 
youngest of a family of six children. In 1832 
his mother removed from Ohio to the vicinity of 
Canousburg, in order that her children might 
have better educational advantages. 

When a very young man Mr. Swan came to 
Washington to learn the printer's trade in the 
office of the Examiner, and during liis apprentice- 
ship lie was an inmate of the family of the later 
venerable Judge Grayson, who was the founder 
of that paper. In 1851 Mr. Swan, in partnership 
with William Ritezel. Esq. , founded the Review. It 
was during this partnership that Mr. Swan, leav 
ing the paper in the hands of Mr. Ritezel, made a 
trip across the plains to California, which trip was 
made on account of bad health. His diary, kept 
during the journey, is one of intense interest, 
telling of many escapades happening to the trav- 
elers, and descriptions of some of our now great 
western cities at that time. He was gone six 
months, returning via the Isthmus of Panama to 
New York. Upon his return to Washington, he 
bought Mr. Ritezel's share in the Review, and con- 
ducted the paper with ability and success until 
its consolidation with the Examiner in 1865; and 
published as Review and Examiner by Swan & 
Ecker, Mr. Swan continuing editor and proprietor 
until his death, which occurred October 10, 1876. 
In 1863 Mr. Swan was the nominee, on the Demo 
cratic ticket, for the office of county treasurer, and 
although his party was then in the minority in the 
county, yet he polled a vote which indicated the 
high esteem in which he was held by his fellow- 
citizens as a man of financial integrity and ability, 
as well as of personal popularity. His was, in 
everv sense, a manly character, and as such always 
commanded the respect of his opponents, and at- 
tracted to him troops of personal friends. Warm- 



hearted, gentle in manner, kind, charitable, be- 
nevolent and generous, he was ever ready to assist 
the poor and unfortunate, and every project, which 
appealed to his sympathy, never failed to receive 
substantial aid at his hands. 

In 1858 Mr. Swan was united in marriage to 
Miss Sarah A. McClane, daughter of Ebeuezer and 
Jane (McMurray) McClane, ofChartiers township, 
Washington Co., Penn., and by her had five chil- 
dren, all now deceased except one daughter, Jean 
McClane Swan, who resides with her widowed 
mother in the borough of Washington. 



F^ROF. G. G. HERTZOG, a well-known 
teacher, and talented professor in the South- 
western State Normal School, at California, 
is a son of Andrew Hertzog, whose father, 
John, was born near Hagerstowu, Md. 
John Hertzog was educated in his native State; 
he was of German descent, and spoke and read 
the German and English languages with equal 
ease. Coming to Fayette county, Penn., he re 
mained a bachelor until middle age, when he se- 
lected a wife in the person of Mrs. Sarah Burch- 
inal, a widow lady, who had four children by her 
former marriage, namely: Jeremiah, Luther, 
Thomas and Rebecca. One son, Andrew, was 
born to the union of John and Sarah (Burchinal) 
Hertzog. The father followed agricultural pur- 
suits, and died at an advanced age. In his polit 
ical sympathies he was a Jeffersouian Democrat. 

Andrew Hertzog was born November 11, 1811, 
in Springhill township, Fayette Co, Penn., and 
there attended the subscription schools. He fol- 
lowed the business of building and contracting 
for many years, and after his marriage settled on 
the homestead farm in Fayette county. He mar- 
ried Susanna, daughter of George and Hannah 
Gans, natives of Pennsylvania, who were the par 
ents of the following children: Asenath, Susanna, 
Hannah, Mary, William, Paul and Philip. Mr. 
Gans was a Democrat in politics, and in religion a 
member of the Baptist Church. After his death 
Mrs. Gans was married to Joseph Baker, and by 
him had four children, viz. : Michael, George, Jo- 
siah and Caroline. To the union of Andrew and 
Susannah (Gans) Hertzog wore born the following 
children: John J., Hannah (deceased), G. G., 
Sarah (wife of William Mallory), Andrew, Amanda 
(married to George Lyons), 0. G. (a minister of 
the Disciple Church, now acting as financial agent 
for Hiram College, Ohio), Susanna (wife of Cyrus 
Pyle), Caroline (married to George D. Bowers), 
Mary (wife of Elza Warman) and Lizzie (wife of 
J. D West). Politically Mr. Heitzog was a Whig 
and Republican, serving for years as justice of 
the peace, and in religion was a member of the 
Baptist Church at Mt. Zion. 



nwsill.XGTON COU.X / ) 



245 



Prof. G. (i. Hertzog was born September 22, 
L837, in Fayette ooanty, Penn., and from earliest 
boyhood developed strong intellectual capacity. 
After attending the common schools, he remained 
sometime at the academy at George*s Creek; then 
took a thorough course of instruction at the South- 
ivestern State Normal School, at California. On 
December 25, 1862, he was married to Emily C. , 
daughter of John Gr. Hertig, and she has borne 
liim four children, viz. : Lucy S. and Walter S. (who 
both graduated at the Southwestern State Normal 
School, the latter in 1891, and is now a teacher). 
Russell T. , deceased, and Carl S. Lucy S. after 
graduation took a medical course at the Homce 
opathic College, of Cleveland, Ohio, and since re- 
ceiving her diploma has been employed as princi- 
pal of the Women's and Children'-. Dispensary at 
Cleveland, Ohio. 

Prof. Hertzog was first connected with the South- 
western State Normal School in 1866, Bince when 
he has been an instructor in the higher branches, 
and is now professor of mathematics and book- 
keeping. His energetic personality is felt and 
appreciated in every department of the school, to 
which he lias devoted many years of his life with 
eminent success, as is fully evin I by the phe- 
nomenal progress the institution has made. In 
politics he is a stanch Republican, and in religion 
an earnest worker in the Christian Church, in 
which he has been an elder for over twenty years, 
and in the Sunday school, of which he has been 
superintendent for many years. 



L 



ODOWICK MeCARRELL is prominent 
among the leading attorneys of the borough 
of Washington, and a lineal descendant of 
Lodowick McCarrell, a native of Ireland, 
who came to America and to Washington county 
in 1780. At Ten .Mile and Hickory, in Mt. 
Pleasant township, he took up a large quantity of 
land, a great part of which he cleared and im- 
proved, and here for years he followed agricultural 
pursuits. He died in 1851, at the advanced age 
of eighty -four years, bearing to the last the im- 
press of the stalwart race from which he sprung. 
Here he married Martha, daughter of John 
Lemon, who, together with Andrew Eagleson, was 
the first settler in Canton township, where he 
died. He had several daughters, all now deceased. 
our subject's grandmother being the first to pass 
away, dying before her husband. The grandpar- 
ents of Lodowick, Jr. , had a family of seveu 
children, of whom the following is a fragmentary 
record: John died in Lawrence county, Penn.; 
Thomas is spoken of more fully further on; James 
died in Beaver county, same State; Andrew died 
in Mount Pleasant township, on the old homestead; 



Leman died in Buffalo township, this county, 
when middle aged; Isabelle (deceased) was the 
wife of Isaac Hodgens, of Buffalo township; Eliza 
beth (deceased) was the wife of John Cockins. ,,f 
Mt. Pleasant township. The father of this family 
was an elder in the Seceder Church. 

Thomas McCarrell, father of Lodowick. Jr., was 
horn in Virginia in 1801. He was thrice mar 
ried — hist, to Miss Esther McNary, of Washington 
county, who died in 1831, leaving four children, 
as follows: Martha, who died in January, 1893, 
at Hickory, this county: Margaret, wife of Joseph 
Cowden, in Cecil township, near Venice; Dr. John 
McCarrell, who died in January, 1891, in Wells 
ville, Ohio, and Dr. James McCarrell, a resident 
of Allegheny, Penn. For his second wife Thomas 
McCarrell married Elizabeth McConnaughy, of 
Washington county, a daughter of David McCon 
naughy, a farmer, who had come from the North 
of Ireland to this county prior to the beginning 
of this century; he and his wife and children are 
now all dead. Mr. and Mrs. McCarrell, after mar 
riage, settled on the old farm in Mt. Pleasant 
township, where were born to them the following 
named children: David M. , a physician in Hick 
ory, this county; Leman, farming on the home 
stead in Mt. Pleasani township; Alexander D., 
a I'nited Presbyterian minister at Stewart's Sta- 
tion, Westmoreland Co., Penn., and Lodowick, 
the subject of these lines. The mother died in 
1859, at the age of fifty-nine years, and the father, 
in 1863, married Margaret Martin, who died in 
1890. The father died in 1S72, a member of the 
Seceder Church. Politically, he was a Democrat, 
and tilled various county and township offices of 
trust. He was elected county commissioner in 
L853, was associate judge for a term of five years, 
and was justice of the peace in Mt. Pleasant town 
ship seven terms. 

Lodowick McCarrel, whose name opens this 
biographical sketch, was born February 2, 1842, 
in Mt. Pleasant township, Washington Co., Penn., 
and received a liberal education at *the schools of 
the locality, working also at times on the farm. 
Saving decided to make the legal profession his 
life vocation, he entered Jefferson College, from 
which he graduated in 1867 in the classical course, 
and then commenced the study of law in the office 
of Montgomery & Gibson, Washington borough. 
In 1869 he was admitted to the bar of the county, 
commenced practice in the following year, and has 
since continued with eminent success. Mr. Mc- 
Carrell was married July 25, 1876, to Lida, 
daughter of Robert JacksoD, and to this union one 
son, Robert L. , was born. In his political prefer 
ences our subject is an active member of the 
Democratic party, and in religious sentiment he is 
of the United Presbyterian faith. 



246 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



JfOHN BAIRD, son of George Baird, of whom 
mention is made elsewhere in this work, was 
] born in Washington, Penn., July 16, 1816, 
and received his education in the public 
schools in the vicinity of his birthplace. In the 
earlier part of his life he was engaged in the coin- 
mission business, which he conducted very sue 
cessfully until he was appointed agent of the 
Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Co. in Washington, 
which position he held for many years up until 
nearly his retirement from active business 

Mr. Baird was married twice, first time to 
Harriet N. Gilfillan, daughter of Dr. Gilfillan, of 
West Alexander, Penn. She died ih 1852, leaving 
ing four children, of whom two are living, viz. : 
Mary M., of Leetsdale, Penn., and Susan C, 
widow of James C. Johnson, of Erie, Penn. For 
his second wife Mr. Baird married Harriet S. 
Clark, daughter of Joseph Clark, of Franklin 
township, Washington county, and to* them seven 
children were born, as follows: Jane Wilson, wife 
of Moses Atwood, of Pittsburgh; Sarah, who died 
in infancy; George, engaged in the banking busi- 
ness in Pittsburgh; Joseph, also engaged in bank- 
ing, in Washington; William, connected with a 
glass company of Washington; and Eleanore and 
Katharine, both at home. On March 5, 1889, the 
father departed this life at the age of seventy-three. 
Politically he was a Republicau, and in religion a 
member of the First Presbyterian Church. 



/ 



HON. JOHN BARCLAY FINLEY, a dis- 
tinguished citizen and business man of 
Monongahela, was born in the city of Phil- 
adelphia, Penn., November 17, 1845. 
His grandparents came to western Penn 
sylvania from Cecil county, Md. , immediately 
after the close of the Revolutionary war, his grand 
father having served in that war, locating first in 
Allegheny City, shortly after moving to a point 
eight miles west of Pittsburgh near White Hall and 
Sargents Hall, six miles east of Finleyville, or as it 
was then called " Rowgalley," where he had a sister 
married to James Barclay, who had also come from 
Cecil county, Md. John Finley was a farmer, and 
owned a body of land, on which Finleyville was built. 
Theoriginal tract on which the town was located was 
called •' Mount Pleasant.'' and the warrant was 
taken out by John Wall, December 3, 1787, pur- 
chased by James Barclay, who sold the most of it 
to John Finley in 1 7SS. It was named Finley- 
ville, in honor of John Finley. He and his wife 
had children as follows: William, born January 
16, I78N, never married; Robert, March 27. 1790, 
never married; John, Januarv 17. 1792; Jane, May 
21), 1793; Sarah, April lit, 1795; Levi, .January 3, 
1798; Margaret, March 30, L800; Isabel, March 
II, 1802; Mary, November 28, 1804; James (father 



of J. B. Finley), June 10, 1806, and Susan, June 
23, 1808. Of these Margaret married a Mr. Bald 
win; Isabel married a Mr. Cochran; Jane married 
Dr. Joseph Curry; Susan married a Mr. Curry; 
Mary married a Mr. St. Clair; Sarah, married a 
Mr. Neil. John Finley was a very large land 
owner in Washington county. 

James Finley, father of subject, was born in 
1806, on the old homestead six miles east of 
Finley on the Pittsburgh and Brownville road. 
He learned merchandising with his brother, Robert, 
who was the first postmaster of Finleyville. A 
short time after James went to Pittsburgh, where 
he entered a mercantile house, remaining here 
from the time he was twenty-five to thirty years of 
age, when he proceeded to Philadelphia, and from 
there traveled abroad. Returning to Philadelphia, 
he there engaged, in company with a partner, in 
the wholesale dry-goods business. In 1851 the 
firm failed, and had to close out the business at a 
great loss. Having saved from the ruin a small 
amount of money, he was enabled to open a general 
store at Finleyville. Here he remained several 
years, dying in 1857, at the age of fifty-one years. 
Mr. Finley was married to Miss Catherine O'Neil, 
who was born at or near Albany, N. Y., a daughter 
of John O'Neil. To this union were born seven 
children, viz.: James, who died aged seventeen; 
William P. , who was but eighteen years old, when 
in May, 1862, he was killed at the battle of Will 
iamsburg, Va. (he was a member of the "Friend 
Rifles," of Pittsburgh); John Barclay, our subject; 
Byron S., unmarried, and residing in Otley, Iowa 
(he and his mother, the latter now aged seventy- 
one years, and sister Florence E., reside together) ; 
Rowland W , who resides in Goodland, Kans. (he 
was county clerk two terms, going out of office in 
1899; he owns a considerable body of land near the 
county seat, and also a flouring mill at Goodland; 
he married Miss Laura White, of Iowa); Florence 
E., mentioned above; Robert F., unmarried and 
residing in San Francisco, engaged in the erection 
of gas plants. 

When six years old our subject came with his 
parents to Finleyville, Washington Co., Penn., at 
the common schools of which place he received his 
primary education, finishing with a course at the 
normal school in Monongahela City. Soon after 
leaving school he engaged as a clerk in the mer- 
cantile house of Alexander & Co., in that city, 
continuing with them in merchandising until 1865, 
when they disposed of their mercantile interests, 
and engaged exclusively in banking. Mr. Finley 
remained with them until 187<l, when, the Peoples 
Savings Bank being established, he was made 
cashier. The bank was, in 1889, reorganized under 
the title of "The Peoples Bank," Mr. Fiidey 
being elected president, which position he contin 
ues to fill. He was one of the original organizers 



-O"— ^ 





ii A.suixGTON COUNTY. 



240 



and promoters of the Monongabela City Gas Co., 
having been a director since its organization and 
treasurer since L880; bas been director of Williams- 
port Bridge Co. for a number of years, president 
since 1888, and he rebuilt it after the tire in 1884; 
be is a director, and for two years was president, 
of the Bellewood & Monongahela Natural Gas 
Co., and is also one of tin- principal stockholders 
of this company; is also one of the incorporators of 

M mgahela Cemetery Association; is also presi 

dent and principal stockholder of the Lawrence 
(ias Co. of New Castle, Penn., and of the New 
Cattle Electric Co., and treasurer and principal 
Stockholder of the City of New Castle Water Co. ; 
president of and stockholder and director in the 
Broad Top & Cambria Coal Co.. and is a director 
in the Fifth National Bank of Pittsburgh. Polit- 
ically Mr. Finley is a Republican, and represented 
Washington county in the Legislature 1887 88, and 
was elected to till the unexpired term of Hon. 
.lames K. Piillingsly, 1889 90; served in the House 
of 1891, and resigned in April, 1892, in order to 
accept office as councilman so as to more effectively 
advocate improved streets and sewerage for Monon 
gahela City; he bad been a member of council be- 
fore, and president of councils three or four terms, 
also clerk of council a number of wars Mr. 
Finley is a prominent Freemason, having attained 
the thirty-second degree; is a Sir Knight Templar 
and member of the Shrine, He is a member of the 
AmericuH Club, and the Duquesne Club, of 1'itts 
burgh, He was a member of the Revenue com 
mission of 1887 (along with M. S. Quay, John 
Faunce, W. Norris, .lames S. Graham, H. K. 
Boyer, Christopher E. Hydrick, Jerome B. Niles. 
Henry Palmer, Thomas V. Cooper, and others) 
to examine into the tax laws of the State and rec- 
ommend State tax legislation. During the war 
of the Rebellion be enlisted in Company G, Eight- 
eenth Pennsylvania Militia, in answer to a call 
of Gov. Curtin in 1862, and was stationed near 
Hagerstown, Md. After Lee crossed the Potomac 
bis regiment was ordered back to Greencastle and 
thence home. 

Mr. Finley was united in marriage, February 
21, 1878, with Miss Marguerite Bowman, who was 
born in Monongahela City, a daughter of Michael 
Bowman. Mr. and Mrs. Finley are members of 
the First Presbyterian Church. 



IM 



The 
county 
generat 



RS. CLARA W. BAIRD, the widow of 

Andrew Todd Baird, is a daughter of 

Hugh W Wilson, of Washington county, 

who settled in South Strabane township, 

on a farm his grandfather had purchased. 

ancestry of this family in Washington 

came to America at an early day, and six 

ions have lived on the old home place estab- 



lished in Washington borough, the representative 
of the fifth generation still living there. James 
Wilson came from Bedford county, Penn., in 17*1, 
and purchased lot No. 291, where Smith's store 
now stands. He died in 1792 in the bouse he had 
built on the corner of Main and Beau streets. At 
bis death his wife (name unknown) inherited by 
will the use of 200 acres of land adjoining the town 
until James, the youngest son, should be of age, 
when the farm was to be equally divided between 
James, Thomas and John. Hugh, the eldest son. 
had been provided for by certain property set off 
to him previously, a portion of which was the lot 
on Main street, near Maiden; and in addition to 
this property he purchased, in 1786, the lot on 
which Morgan's store now stands. This Hugh 
Wilson was the grandfather of Mrs. Clara Baird. 
He was thrice married; his first wife was Rachel 
Leet, born May 31, 1769, daughter of Isaac Leet. 
and sisfer of Maj. Daniel Leet, and by her hi' had 
children as follows: Rebecca, Margaret, Rachel 
and Hugh W. The mother of these children 
dying in 1788, Hugh Wilson married Margaret 
(Hamilton) Fleming, a widow with one daughter, 
Catherine, who afterward became the wife of John 
I). McFaddeo, jeweler, of Pittsburgh, Bj this 

wife Hugh Wilson had one daughter, Eliza, mar 

ried to Rev. Thomas Swaim, of Philadelphia, who 

was pastor of the Baptist Church at Washington, 
Penn., from 1846 to 1850. After the death of his 
second wife Hugh Wilson married a Miss Spencer, 
an English lady, who survived him many years. 

Hugh W. Wilson, the only son of Hugh and Ra 
el i el ( Leet ) Wilson, was born in Washington, Penn., 
February 22, 1812. On April 25, 1837, he was 
married to Frances Emma, daughter of Thomas and 
Frances Anica I Preble) Barlow, of Allegheny, and 
their children were: Edward Preble, born April 25, 
1838, now living in ( 'incinnati, Ohio; James Blaine, 
bom November 25, 1839, now living in Washington, 
Penn.; Clara the subject proper of this sketch; 
and Frances Emma, who (lied in infancy. The 
mother died February 12, 1845, at the age of 
twenty-seven years, and Mr. Wilson married, Sep 
tember 'J, 1S47, Sarah Neville, niece of General 
Neville, and by her he had two children: Neville 
Craig, born October 30, 1850, died January 1, INST. 
and Rebecca Blaine, born September 12, 1853, died 
February 16, 1877. The mother of these children 
departed this life September 30, 1856, aged thirty - 
six years, and the father on May 13, 1862, at the 
age of forty-nine years. By occupation he was a 
farmer, and during the later years of bis life he 
followed fruit growing, also kept a greenhouse. 
His death was sudden, caused by over exertion in 
rapid walking, which produced internal rupture. 
For thirty years be was a deacon in the Baptist 
Church. 

On June 8, 1865, Clara Wilson was united in 



250 



WASHIXGTUN COUNTY. 



marriage with Andrew Todd Baird, by whom she 
had seven children, viz. : Frances Emma, Jane 
Cunningham, Auica Chambers, George (deceased 
at the age of five months), Andrew Todd (deceased 
when aged ten and one-half years), Hugh Wilson 
and Susan, the survivors all living with the mother 
mi Maiden street, Washington. 

Andrew Todd Baird was born in 1831, at the 
home of his grandparents in Washington, Penn., 
I nit was taken to Ripley, Ohio, where he remained 
until 1836, thence moved to Wheeling, W. Va. , in 
which city be lived till 1844, there receiving a part 
of his education. At the age of seventeen (1848) 
Mr. Baird graduated at Washington and Jefferson 
College, where he took a classical course. For a 
time he studied law with his uncle, but for some 
reason abandoned it. He learned telegraphy, and 
in lsr>l had charge of the telegraph office at Wash- 
ington, but resigned to enter his father's store. In 
18(50 he b.icame a partner with his father, 'and on 
the latter's death succeeded to the business. For 
twenty years (1868 to 1887) he was treasurer of 
Washington and Jefferson College; was treasurer 
of the First Presbyterian Church sixteen years 
(1869 to 1885) and at the time of his death the 
church was out of debt; for thirty years he was 
librarian of the Sunday-school. Mr. Baird had 
joined the church in 1856, and lived the life of a 
true Christian. He was a most conscientious man 
and gave liberally of his means to all deserving 
charities and beneficent institutions, and on June 
6, 1X56, he commenced to devote one-tenth of his 
income for that purpose. He was a stanch Repub- 
lican, at all times standing firmly and conscien- 
tiously by his political opinions. After marriage 
he and his wife took up their residence on Beau 
street, in the borough of Washington, remaining 
there until 1871, moving twice before 1875, when 
they took possession of the present home of the 
family. Here Mr. Baird died March 25, 1887, at 
the age of fifty-five years, six month. 



QEORGE BAIRD. This gentleman was a 
typical specimen of the vigorous and hearty 
Scotch-Irish race from which he claimed 
descent. 

His grandfather, John Baird, came to 
America, as a soldier under Gen. Braddock, and 
shared with him the memorable defeat on the 
Monongahela, July 9,1755. He is said to have 
1 ist his life in the disastrous battle of Grant's Hill, 
in 1758, before Fort Duquesne (now Pittsburgh). 
His widow with her infant son. Absalom, continued 
to reside in the home he had established for them 
in Chester county, Penn. But on arriving at a 
suitable age, this son was sent to the famous 
academy at Pequa, in Lancaster county, then con- 
ducted by that eminent educator. Dr. Robert 



Smith, where, by thorough stud)', he prepared 
himself to enter upon a course in medicine. The 
outbreak of the American Revolution found him a 
physician ready for practice, and opened to him a 
tine rield of professional energy and of patriotism 
as an army surgeon, a capacity in which he served 
his country until 1781, when his regiment was dis- 
banded under an act of Congress. Returning to 
Chester county, he settled in Kennett Square, and 
there practiced medicine until November, 1786, 
when he removed to Washington, Penn. In his 
new sphere, Dr. Baird, besides practicing his pro- 
fession, soon reached eminence as a leader in the 
community, as indicated by the various offices he 
successively held, viz.: justice of the peace, county 
lieutenant, brigade inspector, member of the State 
Senate, and then of the House of Representatives, 
s-heriff of Washington county and trustee of Wash 
ington Academy, the germ of the present Washing- 
ton College. He died October 27, 1805, leaving 
four sons, viz. : John, who followed him in the 
medical profession, but died early; George, the 
subject of this memorial, and Thomas H. and Will- 
iam, both of whom became eminent and successful 
lawyers, the former also a distinguished judge. 
His first wife, Susanna (Brown), was called from 
earth November 16, 1802, about three years before 
his death, and his second, Margaret (Darrah), fol- 
lowed his remains to the grave in the year sue 
ceeding their marriage. 

George Baird, the second son of Dr. Absalom 
Baird, was born in Kennett Square, Chester Co., 
Penn., October 28, 1785. He was taken by his 
parents to their new home in Washington at the 
age of eleven months, and here he grew up into 
the bodily and mental strength which ever charac 
terized him amidst the peculiar advantages of acorn 
munity whose tirst settlers possessed unusual cult- 
ure and transmitted it to their posterity. Reared 
carefully amidst the best influences of a Scotch - 
Irish Presbyterian home and community, the text- 
ure of his youthful character was wrought after 
that superior fashion. The death of his father 
left Mr. Baird an orphan of just twenty years. He 
had simultaneously or alternately, been for some 
time pursuing classical and mathematical study at 
Washington Academy, and preparing for the prac- 
tice of medicine in his father's office. During the 
summer of 1805, he had enjoyed the instruction of 
the Rev. Matthew Brown, who in the spring of that 
year had become both pastor of the Presbyterian 
Church of Washington, and principal of the 
academy. Dr. Brown had in the academy, as as 
sistant, Mr. David Elliott (afterward Rev. Dr. 
Elliott), the successor of Dr. Brown both in the 
pastorate of the church and the presidency of the 
college. The retirement of Mr. Elliott after a 
year of service to resume his studies as a candidate 
for graduation in Dickinson College, at Carlisle, 



WASHINGTON*, COtJh I ) 



251 



Penn., was simultaneous with the transition of 
Washington Academy into the college under t ho 
charter of 1806. Mr. liaird took his place as tutor, 
and efficiently discharged the duties of the posi 

tion for a year. The serious bereavement which 
imposed upon him a large share of the support of 
the family, also compelled the abandonment of a 
future prosecution of collegiate studies, and, what 
was still worse, of his medical studies also. This 
was much regretted, in view of his special classical 
taste anil capacity, and a corresponding waut of 

adaptation to ordinary trade. But " o ssitj 

knows no law." The aspiring student, must needs 
abandon his bo >ks and come down to the stress of 
business. He did this with cheerful submission 
and characteristic energy, ever holding the confi 
deuce of the community in which he lived, but not 
with the degree of success with which we may well 
suppose the pursuits of his preference and longing 
might have been crowned. His first important 
venture, along with his brother-in-law, Nicholas 
Wilson, in the form of a boat load of floor for the 
market at New Orleans, was a disastrous failure, 
on account of the intervening depression of juices. 
Subsequently he was engaged in business for a 
brief season at St. Genevieve, Mo., and also at 
Nashville, Tenn. But returning to his home in 
Washington, popular favor expressed itself in his 
election, in ISM, to the office of sheriff of Wash 
ington county, for the term of three years, re elec- 
tion being forbidden by law in the case of that 
office, unless after a lapse of time. During the 
same years, as for the two previous years, the office 
of deputy attorney general was filled by his brother 
Thomas H. Baird, who likewise was president 
judge of the district composed of Washington, 
Fayette and Greene counties for a continuous pe 
riod of twenty years, beginning with 1818. Dur- 
ing the years 1816-24, William Baird, the young 
est brother, was deputy attorney-general. These 
facts abundantly attest both the energy of these 
brothers and of their hold on the public confidence. 
Two important events in Mr. Baird' s life were 
closely associated with his election as sheriff in 
1811. One of these was his marriage, and the 
other his union with the Presbyterian Church of 
Washington, by public profession of his faith. On 
October 25, ISM, two or three weeks after his 
election, he and Miss Jane, daughter of John and 
Catherine Wilson, of Washington, were happily 
united for life by Rev. Dr. Matthew Brown. The 
union was a thorough blending of mutual love and 
devotion, of ever increasing strength, until No- 
vember 2, 1860, when on the verge of a half cent- 
ury the husband's death separated them for a little 
while. Very shortly after his marriage and the 
assumption of the duties of his office, Mr. Baird 
took the vows of a Christian upon himself and sat 



down beside his beloved bride at the communion 
table of the Lord. 

The expiration of Mr. Baird's term of office was 
followed, after a short interval, by his election in 
January, 1S1(>, as a member of the House of Rep- 
resentatives at Harrisburg, to rill the vacancy oc- 
casioned by the death of Gen. James Stephenson. 
He at once took his seat and vigilantly discharged 
his duties as a legislator. Retiring then to private 
life, he engaged in mercantile business, which 
through several changes, and with varying fortune, 
he pursued until 1829, when bis financial embar 
rassments culminated in bankruptcy. The trial 
was in every way severe, and its experience bitter. 
but conscious integrity and an unblemished repu- 
tation sustained his wounded spirit. It was under 
the necessity which followed this reverse of fort 
une, that Mr. Baird in 1830 removed to the neigh 
borhood of Hiphy, Ohio, and took charge .if a 
farm and a mill belonging to his bn ither in law. 
Rev. Andrew Todd, of Kentucky. Here, too, his 
life for six year- was one of both struggle and 
heroic endurance, as well as of success least 
equal to his. expectation. In 1836 another change 
was made responsive to an invitation of his wife's 
brother. Marcus Wilson, to join him in the dry - 
goods business at Wheeling, Va. But their ar 
rangements had scarcely gone into effect when Mr. 
Wilson's death precipitated another. Alone hi' 
then entered into the grocery business, though he 
was, of course, put under unexpected stress. Vet 
he pushed hi- way with assiduous earnestness and 
established a trade which produced a comfortable 
living. So he continued until ISM, when the in- 
creasing infirmities of Mrs. Baird's aged parents at 
Washington, made a call of filial duty to return to 
that place and take charge of them. Concurrent 
with this was the inducement of a better oppor 
tunity to educate his younger children. At Wheel- 
ing he had not only been reasonably prospered in 
business, but his family had formed strong ties of 
friendship, which still bind them. Their relations 
with the First Presbyterian Church of that city, 
during the seven years of their continuance, were 
most cordial and satisfactory. Especially was 
their union close with the venerable pastor, Rev. 
Henry R Weed, D.D., aud his family. The re 
moval to Washington was the last change. En- 
gaging in the same business as at Wheeling, Mr. 
Baird prosecuted it with vigor, having the efficient 
help of his youngest son, Andrew Todd Baird, 
during the last twelve years of his life. That sou 
succeeded him at his death, and soon, by his com- 
bined skill and energy, rose to the front rank of 
business men, a place which by common consent 
he held up to his death. The return of Mr. Baird 
to Washington was speedily followed with renewed 
tokens of confidence from a community which well 



252 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



knew his worth. He was at once elected a trustee 
of Washington College, and so continued through 
the remaining seventeen years of his life. This 
was but a return to a position which he had before 
held for twenty consecutive years, commencing 
with 1812, under the presidency of Dr. Matthew- 
Brown. During all of this latter period he acted 
as collector and a portion of it as treasurer of this 
institution. In this, too, his youngest son was his 
assistant, and succeeding to the financial trust was 
in full charge of the resources of the board until 
his death in 1887. In 1848 he was chosen to the 
office of justice of the peace, and discharged its 
duties for five years. But the office which he most 
of all valued was that of ruling elder in the Pres- 
byterian Church of Washington, to which, after 
election by the people, be was ordained and in- 
stalled October 3, 1847, along with James Boon, 
Joseph Henderson and Dr. Robert R. Reed. In 
that sacred office he was ever discriminating, con- 
stant and true to duty, and during most of the time 
was the efficient clerk of the Session. His appre- 
ciation by the ministry and eldership beyond his 
own particular church, may be inferred from his 
unanimous appointment by the Presbytery of 
Washington, as one of its commissioners to the 
General Assembly, which held its sessions in Nash 
ville, Tenn., in May, 1855. 

The character of Mr. Baird was very marked. 
In him seeming opposites were wonderfully blend- 
ed. Decision even sometimes to sternness if not 
bluntness, was joined with a tenderness of heart 
seldom surpassed. He was brave to utter fear- 
lessness in avowing and maintaining his convic 
tic ms, and yet modest, diffident and deferential to 
the judgment of those in whose wisdom and truth 
he confided. He would suffer loss rather than 
forsake a principle or betray a friend. He was 
not slow to maintain his own rights with a heroic 
spirit, but he was ever more ready to forego his 
own ease and interest in doing a kindness. No 
parent more strictly exacted obedience, whilst no 
one could exceed him in a father's sympathetic 
love. He was solicitous for the spiritual welfare 
of the young, an earnest teacher in the Sabbath 
school, and, during several periods, its superintend- 
ent. He loved the sanctuary with its sacred 
word and ordinances. The family altar never fell 
into neglect in his home, nor did the religious in- 
struction of his children. With his last breath he 
uttered affectionate words of parting to his beloved 
wife ami children, as well as fit counsels to all that 
came to his bedside. His expressions of goodwill 
toward his fellow-men were hearty, and his 
prayers for the coming of the Lord went up be- 
fore him to the heavenly throne. On November 
'_', I860, he breathed out his life in the sweet peace 
of Christ, and two days later his body was gently 



laitl to rest in the " city of the dead." He had 
through grace finished his earthly course of seventy- 
five years, and even then was beholding the Lord's 
face, and was satisfied with His likeness. 

His widow survived him until July 16, 1872, 
when she departed this life in her seventy-ninth 
year. She was greatly beloved in life, not only 
within her own large circle of relatives but by a 
still greater number, between whom and herself, 
during long and affectionate intercourse, ties had 
been formed which are stronger than death. The 
loveliness of her manners and disposition which 
made her girlhood so attractive, was thus carried 
into the responsible relations of wife and mother. 
She was equally at home among the refined and 
the lowly; modestly diffusing the light of her own 
genial spirit over all around her, and receiving 
back the largest rewards of confidence and love. 
Her words of encouragement and hope fell tenderly 
upon sorrowful hearts. As a daughter, sister, 
wife and mother, her affection, illustrated by her 
daily words and acts, wrote its own history upon 
the memories of those bound to her by those tender 
ties, which must prove as lasting as the soul. She 
was kind, tender and thoughtful in all that re- 
lated to the welfare and happiness of each and all 
of them. She was a mother in the fulness of love 
and care to a succession of orphaned children, 
chiefly nephews, nieces and grandchildren, which 
seldom finds a parallel. From the time of her 
marriage, down through the threescore years dur 
ing which she had a home, there was no time when 
the blessings of that home were not shared by one 
or more of this class. In her time of greatest need, 
she always had somewhat to give, when the Mas 
ter's cause appealed to her for help. In this, as 
in a multitude of other ways, did her unselfish 
preference of the good and happiness of others over 
any gratification of her own, appear. 

Mrs Baird was born and reared, as she also 
spent most of her life and died, on the same prem 
ises. She was the fourth daughter of John Wil- 
son, Esq., who died in 1847, and Mrs. Catherine 
Wilson, who died December 15, 1857, who, with 
their firstborn child, immigrated from Ireland to 
this country in 1786. After a residence of three 
years in Philadelphia they settled in Washington, 
Penn., in 1789, and here, after a long life, they 
came to their rest among the dead. Of five sis- 
ters, all of whom lived to widowhood and advanced 
age, and were blended into closer union by means 
of common circumstances and experiences, three 
were called away within the brief space of seven 
teen months. Mrs. Martha Wishart (widow of Dr. 
John Wishart), the second sister, died March 1, 
1871, in the eightieth year of her age; on August 
2, 1872, the eldest sister, Mrs. Mary, widow of 
David Acheson, fell asleep as she neared the veu- 



uwsmxirrox corxr) 



253 



erable age of eighty live years; Mrs. Margaret 
Wilson died July 21, IS70; Mrs. Catherine W. 
Todd, on January 5, 1 S 7 7 . and John K. Wilson 
on July 4, 1883. 



I M ORGAN HAYES, senior member of the 

\a| firm of Hayes & Wilson, carriage makers 

■i I of Washington, Penn., was born in Hurt 

J) * l ford county Conn.. March 13, 1820; re- 

ceived his education there and learned the 

carriage makers' trade in the town of Hartford. 

Morgan Hayes settled at Washington, Penn,, 
October 15, 1841, and in partnership with his 
brother and uncle (who had been keeping a hotel 
in the borough) established a carriage shop in rear 
of the court-house. Burned out there, the com- 
pany purchased the old Presbyterian church build- 
ing, now vacant and the property of the S. B. & 
C. Bay es estate. In 1871 the shop was established 
in the old Methodist church building, 54 North 
Franklin street, where business is now carried on. 
As a coincidence, it may be related thai a brother 
in Columbus, Ohio (now of the linn of M & E. K. 
Hayes), conducted an industry of the same nature 
in an old church building. In 1871 our subject 
formed a partnership with John S. Wilson, who 
had served an apprenticeship with him, for the 
manufacture of all kinds of carriages, buggies, 
spring wagons, etc., which has since continued 
with well-merited success. Politically, Mr. Hayes 
is a Democrat, in religion a member of the Second 
Presbyterian Church, in which he is an elder. He 
is the oldest carriage maker iD Washington, and 
built the first buggy in the county. He has in his 
possession a buggy he made in 1843, and sold July 
3, that year; but some years ago he bought it back, 
and has exhibited it since at the county fair. This 
vehicle is now half a century old, is good and sound, 
and a venerable reminder of the days immediately 
following the "Hard Cider Campaign." Some 
years ago, Rev. Charles Hayes published a vo- 
luminous work, on the Hayes family, at Westfield, 
N. Y., which is a standard genealogy back to 1 (ltd. 
It does not treat of the family before the Refor- 
mation. 



OLIVER M. LINTON is descended from an 
honored ancestry who came to Washington 
county at a very early period in its history. 
John Linton immigrated to America about 
1682, and was apparently the first of the family to 
set foot upon American soil. An old family Bible, 
now in the possession of our subject, contains a 
record of five generations, and the first item in this 
record is the following: "Benjamin Linton, son of 
John and Rebecca, born 6th month, 10th. day, 
1703." 



Joshua Linton, son of the above named Henja 
niiu. by a second wife, iter Jane Cowgil, was born 
January 22, 1738, and was the great-grandfather 
of Oliver M. In early pioneer days he was a resi 
dent of Bucks county, Penn., whence, in company 
with his three sons — Benjamin, Mahlon and 
Joshua, Jr. — he came to Washington county 
toward thecloseof the last century. [This is taken 
from data supplied by Prof. Edwin Linton. | Of 
these sons, Mahlon was born in Bucks county, at 
l J:3<> o'clock, a. m .. February 6, L781, was reared to 
agricultural pm suits on bis father's faun, after the 
fashion of those early times, and also learned the 
trade of weaving, both of which occupations lie 
followed through life. After his arrival in Wash 
ington county, he purchased, on March 10, I (89, 
seventy six acres of wild bind in East Bethlehem 
township, where he made a settlement, clearing 
his place of the primeval forest, and enduring the 
many hardships incident to pioneer life. On 
March 31, 1803, he married Ann Hilles, who bore 
him the following named children: Sarah, born 
August 11. 1804, died in 1873; William II.. born 
April 30, L806, died L862; Samuel, born June 23, 
1809, died 1864; Joseph, born January 28, 1813, 
died L882; Mary Ann, born April 27, 1815, died 
1882; Isaiah, born September 211, 1817, died 1891; 

Caroline, born August 21, 1820, died in girlh 1. 

and Margaret, born September 21, 1825. The 
father died April 4, 1831, the mother following 
him to the grave June 21, 1838. He was a Whig 
in politics, and in his religious connection was a 
Quaker. 

William H. Linton was bom on the farm now 
owned by his son, Oliver M., in East Bethlehem 
township, and which has been in the possession of 
the Linton family ever since its purchase in 1789 
by Mahlon Linton. He received his education at 
the subscription schoolsof the locality of his birth, 
and afterward attended Westland Academy. His 
brothers and sisters, who grew to maturity, all 
married and became scattered, but he continued to 
live on the old homestead, assisting his father in 
the duties of the farm, and at the latter's death 
be inherited the property. He was married Octo- 
ber 31, 1832, to Matilda, daughter of Benjamin 
Taylor, one of Washington county's early Quaker 
citizens. To this union were born children as 
follows: Eli, Caroline, Elizabeth Ann, Oliver M., 
William Hilles, Mary and Eliza, John Francis and 
Lawrence, all of whom are now deceased, except 
Caroline, Oliver M. and William Hilles, the last 
named being a resident of Salem, Ohio. The 
father by occupation was a farmer, shoemaker and 
broom maker; in politics he was a Republican, in 
religious faith a Quaker; he died March 29. 1862; 
the mother was called from earth September 17, 
1869. 

Oliyer M. Linton, whose name opens this bio 



254 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



graphical memoir, was born on the farm which he 
now owns, anil of which hi> has been a lifelong 
resident, with the exception of three years (1882 
to 1885) he spent in Centreville. He was educated 

at the c minion schools of his district, receiving at 
home a thorough training in the arduous and 
manifold duties of a practical agriculturist, and 
has made farming pursuits, including threshing by 
horsepower, the vocation of his life. On October 
26, 1865, he was married to Miss Philena Cleaver, 
who was born September 18, 1841, in Columbiana 
county, Ohio, daughter < .f Eli Cleaver, and this 
union was blessed with rive children, viz. : Nora 
M., born August 19, 1867; Mary M. , born August 
2, 1869; Lizzie L., born September 10, 1871; 
Cora E., born April 3, 1873, and Eva O., born 
November 2, 1882. Of these the following named 
three all died in 1872 of diphtheria: Nora M. , 
March 14; Mary M., February 15, and Lizzie L., 
March 12. Mr. Linton's farm, comprising uinety- 
three acres, in a high state of cultivation, is 
equipped with all modern improvements, and is 
devoted exclusively to general farming and stock 
raising. In his political preferments our subject 
is a Republican, and has served as judge of 
election. 



JOHN S. WILSON, of the firm of Hayes & 
Wilson, carriage makers, Washington, is a 
V[\\ native of that borough, born in March, 1830. 
—^ His grandfather, Matthew Wilson, was of 
Butler county, Penn., whence he removed to 
Morgan county, Ohio, where he carried on farm- 
ing, and died in 1845 at the patriarchal age of 
ninety years. He was a Revolutionary soldier. 
His wife, a native of Ireland, bore him rive 
children (all now deceased), one of whom came at 
the age of seventeen years to Washington, but did 
not remain long; another son and a daughter died 
in Ohio. 

William Jackson Wilson, a son of Matthew, was 
born in Butler county, Penn., and when a lad came 
to Washington, where for many years he followed 
his trade, shoemaking. He was a very patriotic 
man, and held a commission as major in the 
militia. In 1862, then sixty years of age, he was 
desirous of enlisting in the active service of his 
country, but because of his white hair and beard 
he was rejected. Determined, however, to get 
into some regiment, he rejuvenated himself by 
dying his hair, and was then accepted, serving his 
country four years with as much zeal and activity 
as many a much younger man. When he reached 
the age of seventy-six, he departed this life, a 
stanch Republican in his political preferences, 
although prior to the Civil war he had been a 
Democrat. At one time in his life he was over- 
seer of the | r, serving eight years. Socially he 



was connected with the I. O. O. F. and F. & A. 
M. , and in religion he was a member of the M. E. 
Church. Mr. Wilson was married to Mrs. Mary 
Kimmons, nee Sprowls, a descendant of John 
Sprowls who came from England to this county 
about the time of the Revolution, settling in East 
Finley township. To this union were born six 
children, as follows: George W., in Louisville. 
Ky. (for thirty years he was on theL. & N. railroad); 
Sarah is the wife of Morgan Hayes; John S. is the 
subject of this sketch; Mary (Mrs. Daniel Mowry) 
is deceased; Charlotte lives in Washington, Penn. 
The mother died at McCounellsville, Ohio, in 
1841. 

John S. Wilson received his education at the 
public schools of his native place, and learned the 
trade of shoemaker with his father, at which he 
worked three years. Preferring, however, the 
carriage making business, he bound himself as an 
apprentice to S. B. & C. Hayes, of Washington, 
in that line, and served four years, after which he 
worked as a journeyman, part of the time in 
Wheeling, W. Va. In 1859 he went "across the 
plains" to California, with oxen, the journey 
occupying six months, and he has still in his pos- 
session a diary he kept, containing an interesting 
account of his trip from the time of his leaving 
home to his return in 1865. About that year he 
again went to Wheeling, where he remained several 
years, and then, finally, returned to Washington, 
where, in 1871, he eutered into partnership with 
Morgan Hayes, for the manufacture of all kinds of 
carriages, buggies, spring wagons, etc., under the 
firm name of Hayes & Wilson, which has since 
continued with unqualified success. In 1868 Mr. 
Wilson was married to Miss Harriet Woodward 
Kimball, of Wheeling, W. Va. , a native of White 
Mills, Penn., and whose parents are now deceased. 
No children have been born to this union. Polit- 
ically Mr. Wilson sympathizes with the Demo 
cratic party, but in voting he invariably uses his 
judgment, casting his ballot for " the right man 
for the right place;'' socially he was at one time 
a member of the I. O. O. F. He is a typical self- 
made man, having attained success by his own 
individual efforts. Enterprising to an eminent 
degree, he takes a lively interest in all measures 
tending to the welfare and prosperity of his city 
and county. He is a stockholder in both the Glass 
Works and the Tube Works in Washington. 



OF. LYON, a resident of Amwell township, 
Washington Co., Penn., is of Scotch Irish 
/ descent. His great-great-grandfather, Na 
thaniel Lyon, emigrated from the High- 
lands of Scotland to this country in the early part 
of the eighteenth century, and settled near Morris 
town, New Jersey. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Nathaniel Lyon had live sods: Ezekie), Nathan- 
iel, Benjamin, Stephen and John. These brothers 
all immigrated to western Pennsylvania, and for a 
time remained at, or near, what is now Browns 
ville, Fayette county. Here Ezekiel, the eldest, 
built a woolen mill and manufactured cloth for 
many years. Nathaniel, the second son of this 
family, immigrated to Ohio in the early days, and 
settled on the Muskingum river. Stephen, the 
fourth son, was a cripple and worked at the trade 
of tinsmith. The fifth son, John, settled in 
Virginia, at or near the flats of Grave creek, and 
there lived and died. 

Benjamin Lyon, third son of Nathaniel, ami 
great-grandfather of the subject of this sketch, 
was horn in 1752 near Morristown, N. J., where 
he had his home until after the Revolutionary war, 
in which he served during the entire conflict. He 
was married in 1777, while a soldier, to a Miss 
Wilcox who, with her father, mother and one 
brother had started from London, England (the 
father, Mr. Wilcox, during a storm while I hey 
were crossing the ocean, was drowned). The 
mother, Mrs. Wilcox, with her two children, 
reached this country safely, and settled in Phila- 
delphia. After the war, Benjamin Lyon immi 
grated to Western Pennsylvania, and settled on a 
farm at the headwaters of Mingo creek, about one 
mile north of Dunningsville, Washington Co., 
Penn. This farm was for many years owned by 
Andrew Crouch (deceased), and is now owned by 
his son, John Crouch. The original mansion 
house and home of Benjamin Lyon, on this farm, 
is still standing; it is a frame building, and was 
built by his own hands, he being a mechanic. He 
lived on this farm until the death of his first wife 
in 1801. She was buried in a graveyard on the 
adjoining farm, known for many years back as the 
"Todd farm." Benjamin Lyon, soon after the 
death of his wife, sold out and moved to Smith 
Creek, Greene Co., Penn., where, in 1812, he 
married the Widow Rogers, and by her had one son 
(Mathias), born June 9, 1813 (now living in Chilli- 
cothe. Mo.). By his first wife he (Benjamin 
Lyon) had children as follows: Betsy, born April 
27, 1778; Phcebe, born November 10, 1781; Sabia, 
born December 9, 1783; Nancy, born March 30, 
1787; Noah, born March 27, 1790; William, born 
March 9. 1795; and Joanna, born December 13, 
1800. Religiously, Benjamin Lyon was a Baptist, 
and was very strong in the faith. He died in 
1836, at the age of eighty-four, and was buried on 
the Thomas Smith farm, two miles from Waynes- 
burg. Pennsylvania. 

William Lyon (grandfather of O. F. Lyon) was 
born March 9, 1795, in Nottingham township, 
Washington Co., Penn. He was married September 
7, 1810, to Elizabeth Hathaway, who bore him 
eight children, viz. : Morgan Lyon, born July 17, 



IS 17; Thomas Harvey (residing at Linden. Wash 
ington Co., Penn. ). born September 4. 1819; Har 
rison (deceased), born December 24, 1821; Jack- 
son (deceased), born October 17. IS'24; Louisa 
(Mrs. Horner, deceased I, born Maj 27, 1827; 
Richmond (deceased), born January 28, 1829; 
Perren (residing at Orarjge, Cal.), born May 10. 
L832; and William Sealy (residing at Rochelle, 
III), born February 26, 1835. He lived in Green. 
county for a short time, then bought a gristmill 
on Ten Mile creek, Washington county (now 
known as Lindley's Mills), which he owned and 
operated until 1842, when he sold out, and with 
his wife and children moved to Clark county. Itid . 
where he remained until the fall of 1 S 4 4 . when, on 
account of sickness of nearly all his family, and 
death of two of his sons (Harrison and Jackson), 
he returned to Pennsylvania and located at Beck's 
Mills, three miles east of Canonsburg, Washing 
ton county, where he died November 9, 1845; 
Elizabeth Lyon, his widow, died April 10, 1804. 

Morgan Lyon (father of O. F. Lyon) was born 
July 17. 1817. His education was obtained at 
common schools, and for some time he taught 
school in his own neighborhood; when not teach 
ing he worked with his father in the mill. On 
November 25, 1838, he was married to Clarissa 
Jane McYey, who bore him nine children, viz. : 
Oscar F. (whose name opens this sketch); Emma 
A. (Mrs. Samuel Bane, deceased), born September 
17. 1841; Elizabeth A. (Mrs. Evans Bane, re- 
siding in Moniteau county. Mo.), born March 22, 
1844; Harvey R.. born September 9, 1846, was a 
soldier in Company K, Sixteenth Pennsylvania 
Cavalry, war of the Rebellion (now residing in 
Denton, Tex.); William A., born January 13, 1849 
(was a soldier in Company K, Sixteenth Pennsyl- 
vania Cavalry, died at Alexandria. Va. , June 1, 
1864, of wounds received in action); David H , 
born October 1, 1851 (died in infancy); Sarah L., 
born March 29, 1855 (residing in Moniteau 
county, Mo-); Clara J. (Mrs Hoge), born Decem- 
ber 12, 1858 (residing in Chillicothe. Mo.), and 
James M. (residing in Burlington, Iowa), born 
January 4, 1861. 

For a number of years Morgan Lyon followed 
droving, buying stock in Ohio and western Penn- 
sylvania and driving it across the mountains to 
the Eastern cities. In 1862 he opened a store of 
general merchandise at Lone Pine, Penn., and at 
the same time and place owned and operated a 
coal mine. Here he continued in business (which 
proved to be very profitable) until 1869, when he 
sold out and moved to Moniteau county, Mo., and 
purchased the farm upon which he lived until his 
death. Politically, he was a Whig, and after the 
organization of the party he became a Republican, 
being always interested in public affairs, and in- 
tensely loyal. He was especially earnest in pro- 



256 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



moting the welfare of the public schools, was a 
great reader, well posted on the general topics of 
his time. He was always an earnest believer in 
the Christian religion, and died strong in the faith, 
January 29. 1891. 

Clarissa Jane Lyon (mother of O. F. Lyon) 
was born May 20, 1820, a daughter of Stephen 
and Amy McVey, who wire of Scotch Irish origin, 
and whose ancestors were among the early settlers 
of western Pennsylvania. Mrs. Lyon had four 
brothers and three sisters, viz. : Silas (deceased), 
Harvey (residing at Washington, Penn. ), Franklin, 
a carpenter (deceased), Charles (a soldier in the 
Sixteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, war of the Re 
bellion), Sarah Waddell (residing at Millsboro, 
Penn.), Ann Vorhees (deceased), and Amy, living 
at West Union, Penn. Mrs. Lyon was always a con- 
sistent, Christian woman, a devoted wife and 
mother. Forgetting self, she lived and toiled 
solely for the good of her family and those around 
her. She and her husband were formerly mem- 
bers of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, but 
in later years both united with the Christian 
Church. She is still living on her farm (left by 
her husband) in Moniteau county, Mo. 

O. F. Lyon, eldest son of Morgan and C. J. 
Lyon, was born December 1, 1839, in Morris 
township, Washington Co., Penn. At the age of 
two years he went with his parents to Indiana, re- 
turning with them to Pennsylvania when he was 
about five years old, and settling in North Stra- 
bane township, Washington county. Here he re- 
mained, going to school in the winter time, and 
working on the farm in summer. At the age of 
seventeen he learned the carpenter's trade, which 
he followed until the opening of the war of the 
Rebellion, when he enlisted, September 16, 1861, 
in the first three-years' call, in Company A, 
Eighty-fifth P. V. I., serving until November 22, 
1864. He was with Gen. McClellan in the Pen- 
insular campaign of 1862; with Gen. Foster's ex- 
pedition from Newberne, N. C via Atlantic 
Ocean to Hilton Head, S. C. . January, 1863; 
with Gen. Gilmore, in the Department of the 
South, during 1863; with Gen. Butler, around 
Petersburg and Richmond, Va., in 1864. He 
participated in the siege of Yorktown, battles of 
Williamsburg, Savage Station, Fair Oaks and 
Black Water, Va. ; siege of Morris Island, and 
Fort Wagner, S. C. , sometimes called the Sixty- 
one days' tight; White Marsh Island, Ga. ; Ber 
muda Hundred, Ware Church, Appomattox, Straw 
berry Plain. Deep Bottom, Chapin Farm, Va., and 
others. At Fair Oaks his life was saved by his 
belt clasp, which was struck and broken through 
by an ounce minie ball. After his return from 
the war Mr. Lyon entered the store of his father, 
and on February 18, 1866. was united in marriage 
with Catharine Ferre}. The following children 



have been born to them: Jennie C, born May 
26, 1867 (educated at Oberlin, Ohio, and now 
teacher of music at Braddock, Penn.); Emma A., 
born August 17, 1869 (graduated at Bethany Col 
lege (W. Va.), and is uow missionary in Nankin, 
China, under the control of the Foreign Mission 
ary Society of the Christian Church); Ella L., 
born June 7, 1872 (graduate of the Washington 
Business College and teacher of stenography and 
typewriting); William M., born October 20, 1!S71, 
and Sherman L., born December 12, 1883, both 
students. 

Soon after his marriage Mr. Lyon engaged in 
farming and stock-raising, and in 1872 purchased 
the farm upon which he has since lived. He is 
an active Republican, and has served two terms as 
justice of the peace in Am well township. He and 
his family have for many years been members of 
the Christian Church, and are prominent in the 
community. 



THE WISE FAMILY. This family, which set- 
tled at an early day in the southeastern part 
of what is now Washington county, Penn., 
were of German extraction. Adam Wise 
and his wife, the progenitors, were natives 
of Rhenish Hesse, a province of Hesse Darmstadt, 
and lived near the river Rhine, where his ancestors 
carried on the business of milling and distillation 
of wine. He and his wife, excited no doubt by 
the wonderful reports which were spread far and 
wide of the opportunities afforded the emigrant for 
bettering his condition of life in the New World. 
set sail with their first born child (Andrew, born 
May 7. 1748) from Rotterdam, in the ship "Hamp- 
shire," Thomas Cheeseman, captain, and touching 
last at Falmouth, England, landed at Baltimore, 
Md., in July, 1748, the vessel after some delay 
proceeding to Philadelphia, where it arrived Sep 
t ember 7 following. Adam Wise and family first 
settled on Pipe creek, in Carroll county, Md., at or 
near the site of Frederick City, where he lived about 
t wcnty-two years, and was engaged in the busi- 
ness of milling, distilling and farming, at which 
he prospered and was well to do. Shortly after 
March 10, 1763, when his son Adam, Jr., was born, 
his first wife died. After a suitable period of 
mourning had elapsed, the elder Wise consoled 
himself for the loss by taking another wife — a 
German lady -- and a few years after, his no 
madic spirit, having revived, he closed out his busi 
ness in Maryland, and started with his family, now 
numerous, in search of a new home in the wilds of 
western Pennsylvania (making the long and tedi 
ous journey over the mountains in wagons), and 
settled on North Ten Mile creek, probably about 
the year 1770, if not earlier. This section of 
country was then known as " The Wilderness of 



m 



5w 




WASH TNG I 'ON CO V A / V 



259 



Ten Mile " and was very sparsely settled. Only 
four years before this the lirst w hite settlement 
within the present limits of Washington county 
had been made near the junction of Ten Mile 
oreek with the Monongahela river, and about four 
miles down the stream from the point where Adam 
\\ ise selected his new home. The selection was 
judiciously made. Perhaps nowhere in Wash 
ington county could he have found a more invil 
ing site for a homestead. On a commanding emi- 
nence overlooking the beautiful valley of Ten Mile 
he built his cabin home. He must have been a 
man of cultured and refined taste, as a family 
tradition states that he was largely influenced in 
selecting this location by the picturesque land 
scape here presented to his view, and more particu- 
larly by the groyes of white pine growing in this 
locality — a feature of natural scener) very rare in 
Washington county. Here he located a tract of 
land, then in Westmoreland county, comprising 
about 400 acres, by what was called a ''tomahawk 
improvement;'" that is. he blazed the trees around 
his boundaries. The tract lies on the north side 
of North Ten Mile creek, about two and one half 
miles from its junction with the south branch, and 
about four miles from the .Monongahela river. This 
tract he uamed '"The Fishery," for the reason that 
the linny tribe was very numerous at this point in 
the waters of Ten Mile, and it was patented March 
1 ( J, 1785, under that name, by his sou Peter Wise, 
who inherited it, the warrant having issued June 
26, 1785. The delay in taking out a patent was 
occasioned by the disturbed state of the country 
caused by the Revolutionary war, and also owing 
to the death of the original proprietor, which oc- 
curred before its close. 

After the erection of Washington county, In act 
of Assembly, March 28, 1781, this tract was in- 
cluded in Washington, and after the county was 
subdivided into townships it was in Bethlehem; 
then after its subdivision into East and West 
Bethlehem, it was partly in both townships, the 
line passing nearly through its center. The village 
of Zollarsville is now located on a part of this 
tract. A recital of the adventures and hardships 
experienced by this family during the first few 
years of its life in the wilderness would be too 
voluminous for this sketch — until the close of the 
Revolutionary war the Indians were hostile and the 
settlers were constantly menaced by destruction 
at their hands. At one time the danger became so 
threatening that they forsook their home and took 
refuge in old Fort Redstone, in which one of their 
children was born. The nearest trading posts were 
Winchester, Va., and Frederick City, Md.. and to 
one of these points journeys were frequently made 
for the purchase of salt, hardware and other neces- 
saries which they could not produce on the farm. 
These trips required about a mouth to make, and 



several settlers generally traveled together, for mu- 
tual protection against the wild beasts and ma- 
rauding savages. Each man generally had charge 
of three horses, all heavily laden with such prod 
uce of their farms as could be carried on pad, 
-addles. At first they carried wheat, but this 
proved too weighty -then they tried tlax, but this 
proved too bulky. At last finding that whisky 
and peach brandy were highly prized and com 
manded high prices at these trading posts, small 
distilleries were soon erected on almost every farm, 
and their products soon came to be the chief 
articles of export and trade. The sites of three <>l 
these primitive distilleries are still plainly marked 
on the old Wise plantation. This whisky took the 
name of the region in which it was manufactured, 
and " Old Monongahela " soon became a popular 
brand — a distinction which it has retained to the 
present day. 

For several years the only mills for grinding 
grain were run by hand or by horse power, but the 
practical mind and enterprising spirit of Adam 
Wise soon conceived the idea of erecting a flouring 
mill to be propelled by water power, and to him 
and his son Andrew must be given the credit of 
erecting I lie firsi mill built within the valley of 
Ten Mile. It is not now possitively known in 
what year this mill was erected, but a plat of the 
land made in 17 s o >ho\\^ tin location of the mill, 
race and dam, and it was in successful operation 
and a place of note in 1788, as is shown by a peti- 
tion of the inhabitants of Bethlehem township to 
the court in that year, which prays "that a line 
dividing said township into two parts, should be 
gin at Peter Drake's and thence by a straight line 
to Wise's Mill which has ever been accounted cen- 
treable." This mill, however, was probably in 
operation about 1775, or shortly thereafter, first 
with an undershot wheel, and upon a small scale, 
but as the settlement rapidly increased it was soon 
found to he insufficient to do the business, and it was 
torn down, and a large mill with three run of 
buhrs, and overshot wheels, was erected near the 
site of the old mill. For many years it did an im- 
mense business, having no competition, flour of its 
manufacture being shipped in keel and flat boats 
as far south as New Orleans. Not long after the 
erection of the flouring mill, a sawmill was also 
erected, which did a large business, being sur 
rounded by the primeval forest, and lumber being 
in great demand on account of the rapid settlement 
of the neighborhood. 

In the midst of all this business, Adam Wise, by 
whose capital . and enterprise the mills were 
erected, died June 9, 1781, in his sixty-third year, 
and was buried in a graveyard on his plantation. 
A plain stone, with his age and date of death 
rudely cut thereon, still marks the grave where 
sleeps this sturdy, brave-hearted, enterprising 



260 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



pioneer. He was a useful man in his day and gen- 
eration. Probably no man ever lived in this sec 
tion who did so much to promote its rapid settle- 
ment and improvement. By his enterprise in 
erecting a mill, other settlers were attracted to the 
neighborhood, on account of the convenience there- 
of, the primeval forests rapidly gave way to culti- 
vated fields, and the rich hills of Bethlehem were 
soon covered with golden grain. This mill passed 
out of the ownership of the Wise family in 1840, 
and was torn down in 1867. It was sold outside 
of the family for a few years, but was repurchased 
and owned and operated by said family for more 
than half a century. Adam Wise left a largo 
estate for the time, and also a large family, his 
children being thirteen in number. By his first 
wife, who died in Maryland, he had five sous, viz. : 
Andrew, born in Germany; Peter, Frederick, 
Henry and Adam, Jr. ; by his second wife, Catha- 
rine, he had eight children, viz. : sons — Jacob, 
Daniel, Abraham and Tobias, and daughters — 
Mary, Mary Ann, Ulian and Judith, some of whom 
were born before he left Maryland, others, after 
he came to Washington county, Penn.; of these, 
Andrew patented the farm where Thomas Martin- 
dell now lives. He married Zernah Hartman, and 
died March 4, 1840, aged ninety- two years, his re- 
mains lying buried in the graveyard on his father's 
original plantation. His descendants now reside 
in and near Logansport, Ind. , from one of whom 
Mr. George C. Horn, the writer of this sketch is 
indebted for much of the information used in its 
preparation. 

Peter, the second son, inherited by the will of 
his father (dated April 13, 1781) the family home- 
stead, and lived thereon until 1818, when he sold 
it to his son Andrew, and moved to near Canton, 
Ohio, where his posterity now generally reside, 
constituting a numerous and influential family. 
Hannah, a daughter of Peter, married Jacob Zol- 
lars, and lived on a part of the old Wise tract until 
her death. She was the mother of four children, 
all of whom are now dead or moved away from this 
county except Demas Zollars, who still resides 
here at an advanced age. Frederick, the third son, 
founded the town of Fredericktown, situated on 
the Monongahela river, upon land patented and 
owned by him, and named it after its founder. 
The survey was made March 8, 1790. He seems 
to have been a Prohibitionist, a rare distinction 
probably in his day, for among other things he 
stipulated in his deed to purchasers of lots "that 
no distillery for the destruction of grain or fruits 
shall be at any time erected on the premises. ' ' Two 
of the sons of Adam Wise, viz.. Henry and Daniel, 
settled in Virginia and their,descendants are nu- 
merous in that State at the present day, but noth- 
ing definite concerning them is known to the writer. 
Jacob lived and died in Washington county, and 



some of his descendants still live here. Of Abra- 
ham and Tobias, with their sisters, Mary, Mary 
Ann and Ulian, the writer after diligent inquiry 
can find no trace. They must either have died or 
moved away to parts unknown to the writer. 
They probably moved to Ohio along with their 
half-brother Peter, who was made their testament 
ary guardian by their father. Judith married 
Bev. John Spohn, a minister in the German Bap- 
tist Church, and some of her grandchildren are 
still residents of this county. 

Adam Wise, the fifth son of Adam, Si., by his 
first wife, was born April 5, 1763. He married 
Barbara Zollars, a daughter of Frederick Zollars, 
a pioneer in the neighborhood. He became owner 
of a farm of about 276 acres adjoining the land of 
his brother Peter. About 1812. he became the 
owner of the old Wise mill, and of 100 acres of 
the old homestead. He operated the mill in con 
uectiou with his farms until 1824, when he dis- 
posed of his property among his children, and re- 
tired from active business life. He died July 15, 
1842, aged seventy-nine years; his wife, Barbara, 
died September 29, 1852, aged uinty three years. 
Adam Wise was a member of the German Baptist 
or Dunkard Church, and so great was his religious 
zeal, that when he erected his new brick residence, 
now owned and occupied by James B. Hawkins, 
he had the second story finished in one compart 
ment, so that public religious services could be 
held therein. His wife, however, was of the 
Lutheran faith, and was one of the original mem- 
bers of the Lutheran Church, which was organized 
here by Bev. Stowe in 1792. They were the par- 
ents of eight children, viz. : Elizabeth, David, 
Samuel, George, Bebecca, Frederick, Joseph and 
Solomon. 

Elizabeth, born May 8, 1785, married Jacob 
Shidler, and settled with her husband on a farm 
located on Daniels run, in West Bethlehem town- 
ship. She was the mother of five children — all 
sons, viz.: George, Adam, Samuel, Joseph and 
Jacob, all of whom are now dead or moved out of 
this State. George was a minister of the German 
Baptist denomination, but moved to the West 
many years ago. Joseph became a noted physi- 
cian, and practiced his profession in West Bethle- 
hem township, until his death. She and her hus- 
band were both members of the German Baptist 
Church, and the brick church on Daniels run, 
still in use by that society, was built on laud do- 
nated by her husband. 

David, born March 8, 1787, located on a portion 
of his father's homestead, and also purchased the 
Ludwig Praker farm adjoining, on which he lived 
the remainder of his life. He was twice married, 
his first wife being Mi^s Esther Shidler and his 
second Miss Bach el Garrett. He literrlly obeyed 
the Divine command " to multiply and replenish 



ii ASHINGTON COUNTY 



261 



the earth," for he became the father of eighteen 
children. By his first wife he had ten. viz. : 
A. lam, Jr. , Barbara, Elizabeth, David, Jr., George, 
Henry, Hannah, Anne. John and Benjamin. By 
his second he had ei^'lit, x'v/.. : Amos, Jacob, Nicli 
olas, Isaac. Mary, Lydia, Maria and Isabel. Of 
this large family all arc now living but five, and 
the homes of the balance are scattered in four 
different States. He was a worthy member of tbe 
German Baptist denomination, and illustrated by 
life and example the teachings of the Divine 
Master whom he loved and served. Three of his 
sons, viz.: Adam. David and John, are ministers 
of the German Baptist Church, the latter being a 
bishop of that Society. Two of his grandsons are 
also in the ministry. 

Samuel, born August 1(1, 1789, married a Miss 
Shidler, a daughter of John Shidler. He tirst set 
tied on a farm near Hillsborough in West Bethle 
hem township, but subsequently removed to Knox 
county, Ohio. He had a large family of which 
nothing definite is now known to the writer. 

George, born November 13, 1791, married Miss 
Margaret Ulery, a daughter of Stephen Ulerv. of 
this county. He resided for several years near (he 

village of Hillsborough, but subsequently pur 
chased a large tract of land situated i'ii Ruff's 
creek in Greene county. Penn. . to which he re- 
moved. In his old age he disposed of this home 
stead and moved with his family to Marshall 
county, 111. He was the father of nine children, 
viz. : sons — Stephen, Jackson, Morgan and George 
A. ; daughters- Maria. Elizabeth, Isabel, Mar- 
garet C. and Matilda. Several of these are now 
dead, the balance reside in the West. He was a 
minister in the German Baptist Church, and for 
many years was pastor of the society of that name 
on Daniels run. He was not an educated man in 
the modern acceptation of that term, but his strong 
practical common sense, wise counsel and earnest 
piety made him an acceptable minister to his con- 
gregation. 

Rebecca, born November 20, 1795, married Peter 
Crumrine, who was a resident of Greene county, 
Penn. She was the mother of three children. She 
died at an early age, and her husband, having re- 
married, moved with his family to Knox county. 
Ohio. The writer knows nothing of the^ubsequent 
history of this family. 

Joseph, born May 22, 1797, married Miss Par- 
melia Barnard, and lived on the mill property here 
tofore spoken of. which he owned and operated for 
several years. About the year 1824 his brother, 
Frederick Wise, purchased a half interest in the 
mill property and it was operated by the brothers 
as joint owners until 1840, when it finally passed 
out, of the ownership of the Wise family. Joseph 
also purchased 165 acres of the original Wise tract 
from Andrew Wise, the son of Peter Wise, and re- 



sided thereon until his death. He was the father 
of nine children, viz.: sous — Solomon B., Morgan 
R. and Joseph Jr.; daughters Elizabeth. Mary. 
Emily and Rebecca (both dead), Maria and Bar 
bara. Of these Solomon B. and Morgan R. both 
reside in Arizona Territory. Morgan became a 
noted politician, having twice represented Greene 
county, Penn., in the Legislature, and was twice 
elected to Congress. Joseph Wise, Jr., inherited 
his father's homestead and still resides cm it, title 
to which has vested in the Wise family without a 
break in the succession for oue hundred and I went] 
two years. Joseph, Jr., married Miss Man Re} 
nolds, who was educated at Washington Female 
Seminary, and graduated therefrom in the class of 
L869. The daughters living are all married, and all 
reside in Pennsylvania. Joseph Wise, Sr., was a 
member and for man] years a ruling elder ill the 
Regular Baptist Church. He was a man of strong 
religious conviction and was always ready to de- 
fend the doctrines of his church, yet he was liberal 
and tolerant of the opinions of others, and had the 
respect and confidence of all. He died April 211. 
1873, and his mortal remains are interred in the 
graveyard on the old plantation. 

Solomon, born May 16, 1799, married Pamela 
Alexander for his first wife, and after her death he 
married Jane, her sister. He inherited the greater 
part of his father's homestead, which he sold in 
1854, and moved to Marshall county, 111., where 
he died. His children by his first wife were 
Sarah Jane, Alexander and Adam T.; by his 
second -Harriet, Emma, Leonidas and Hamlin. 
The latter died in infancy, the rest are living in the 
West. Solomon Wise was a member of the Meth- 
odist Episcopal Church, and was one of the origi 
nal members of the M. E. Society at Qlery's, or- 
ganized in IS 10. He was one of its first board of 
trustees, and was a zealous and liberal member of 
the church. 

Frederick, the fourth son of Adam Wise in the 
order of their ages, was born September 2, 1793. 
He married, September 4, 1817, Elizabeth Burson, 
a daughter of Edward and Elizabeth Burson (nee 
Blackledge), who were among the earliest settlers 
in what is now Greene couuty. They emigrated to 
this section from Bucks county, Penn., in 17S9, 
and settled on a farm near Clarksville, Penn.. 
where Mrs. Wise was born January 26, 1799. She 
had seven brothers — James, Thomas, David, Levi, 
Joseph, Isaac and Abraham — and two sisters — 
Sarah and Margaret. Of these, Thomas, Levi, 
Isaac and Abraham were citizens of Greene county, 
Penn. Thomas was a man of considerable ote, 
having held public offices of various kinds during 
forty-five years of his life. He twice represented 
Greene county in the Legislature, and served two 
terms as associate judge of the court. Isaac also 
served a term as associate judge. Abraham in- 



•262. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



horited the family homestead, to which his son, 
James C, succeeded, it having been owned succes- 
sively by members of the family for one hundred 
and three years. James and David settled in Col- 
umbiana county, Ohio, and Joseph in Jefferson 
county, Ohio. Sarah became the wife of John 
Johnston, of Columbiana county, Ohio, and Mar 
garet married Joseph Burson, of Guernsey county, 
Ohio. 

Mrs. Wise was a Quakeress by birth, and could 
trace her lineage through a long line of Quaker 
ancestry back to Joseph Burson, who came from 
London, England, to Philadelphia with William 
Peun's first colony of Quakers in 1681. Her 
great-great-grandmother was Mary Potts, an aunt 
of Isaac Potts, at whose house near Valley Forge 
Washington had his headquarters in the Revolu- 
tion. Frederick Wise, as before stated, was joint- 
owner with his brothor Joseph of the mill property, 
and in addition he owned about 120 acres of the 
original "Fishery" tract, having purchased it 
from his father, upon which he lived, and where 
his useful, honorable and blameless life closed in 
death, February 14, 1876, when he was aged 
eighty-two years five months twelve days. He was 
buried in the old Wise burying ground, already the 
last resting place of many of his own kith and kin. 
His beloved wife died December 23, 1879. and 
now sleeps by his side. She was aged eighty 
years ten mouths and twenty-seven days. Freder- 
ick Wise and his wife were both members of the 
German Baptist Church, of which he was an elder 
or deacon. He was of a quiet, peaceable disposi- 
tion, and was pre-eminently a peacemaker. He 
was frequently called upon to settle disputes 
among his neighbors, and especially among the 
membership of his church, and so great was the 
confidence reposed in his wisdom, justice and im- 
partiality, that his arbitrament generally proved 
satisfactory, and the blessing promised to the 
peacemaker by the Divine Master rested upon 
him, even during his life on earth. He was the 
father of four children, viz.: Adam, who died in 
infancy, Margaret, Emeline and Joseph B. 

Margaret was born October 2, 1818, became the 
wife of James C. Hawkins, March 24, 1836, and 
died January 15, 1892, less than one year after the 
death of her husband, with whom she had lived 
happily for fifty-five years. Her married life was 
spent on a farm in East Bethlehem township, 
Washington county. She and her husband were 
consistent members of the Bethlehem Baptist 
Church, in which faith she continued steadfast 
until her death. She possessed in an eminent de- 
gree the qualities which adorn womanhood. We 
quote the following tribute to her memory pub- 
lished at the time of her decease by a distinguished 
minister of the Baptist Church. "She was a 
woman of peace and great kindness of heart- F or 



many years her home was the home of her pastor, 
and she was faithful to her church even at the ex- 
pense of her comfort and health. She possessed 
those traits which endeared her to her family and 
neighbors, and led her to faithful service to her 
Master." She was the mother of seven children, 
viz.: Emma (now dead), who became the wife of 
Rev. J. L. Thompson; Dr. A. W. H. , who was a 
surgeon in the United States navy, died unmarried; 
Alexander L., who married Miss Cynthia Green 
field (he served in the United States army as captain 
during the war of the Rebellion, and is now colonel 
of the Tenth Regiment, N. G. P.); Cynthia is un- 
married; Elizabeth, now dead, became the wife of 
John Sargent; James R. married Miss Decima 
Addleman; William N. married Miss Ada Far 
quhar. All of these who are now living reside in 
Washington county. 

Emeline, born November 28, 1820, became the 
wife of Richard C. Hawkins, November 25, 1841, 
and resides on a farm near Jefferson, Greene Co., 
Penn. She and her husband are members of the 
Cumberland Presbyterian Church. She is the 
mother of eight children, viz. : Joseph W. , who 
married Miss Clariuda Bailey; James T. (now de- 
ceased), married to Miss Anna E. Greenlee; Mar 
garet V., married to William C. Bailey; Clara E. , 
married to William J. Bodley; Thomas H. , mar- 
ried to Miss Frances Bailey; William B. , married 
to Miss Mary Murdock; Samuel C, married to 
Miss Mary E. Grimes; Frederick W., deceased in 
infancy; all the survivors reside in Greene county, 
Penn. , except Clara, who lives in Wheeling, West 
Virginia. 

Joseph B., born May 29, 1833, was married 
November 30, 1879, to Miss Sarah V. Stockdale, of 
Morris township, Greene Co., Penn. Her parents 
were William and Hannah Stockdale (nee Mc- 
Quaid), both of Washington Co., Penn. Her 
grandparents were James Stockdale, of Belfast, 
Ireland, and Mary Wier. of Morris township, 
Washington Co., Penn. Her brothers were Hon. 
Thomas R. Stockdale, now member of Congress 
from Mississippi; Hon. James Stockdale, of Balti- 
more. Md., deceased; Hon. John M. Stockdale, of 
Washington, Penn., and Robert Stockdale, Esq., 
of Mount Pleasant, Iowa. Her sisters were Mary, 
wife of Thaddeus Dodd, M. D., of Amity, Peun., 
and Isabel, wife of Blachley Lindley, of Morris 
township, Washington Co., Pennsylvania. 

Joseph B. Wise was educated at Greene Acad- 
emy and Waynesburgh College, Penn., at which 
institution his wife graduated in the class of 1854. 
He was engaged in teaching for ten years, and 
then turned his attention to farming and stock 
raising. He owns about two hundred acres of the 
original Fishery tract, a part of which he inherited 
from his father, on which he now resides. He is 
qow serving his third term as justice of the peace. 



ll'.l si I TNG TON COUNTY. 



263 



He is the father of two children, viz. : William F., 
who graduated from Washington and Jefferson 
College in the class of 1SS:',. read law with Thomas 
C. Lazear, Esq. . of Pittsburgh, and is now a prac- 
ticing attorney in that city; Charles S., who grad- 
uated from Washington and Jefferson College in 
the class of 1888, and road law with David T. 
Watson, Esq., of Pittsburgh, where he is a prac 
I icing attorney with his brother. 

We here close the biography of the Wise family. 
\\ .■ regret its many omissions and imperfections, 
but we plead in extenuation the meagerness of 
our material. If any early records of the family 
Were kept, they are now lost, and we have been 

< jpelled to rely for our information on public 

documents and such family traditions as we be- 
lieve to be authentic. We regret that we could 
not give more in detail the history of the collateral 
branches of the family, but this the limited space 
at our command forbids. Our object has been to 
commemorate the dead rather than the living; to 
brush away the dust from a few noble old burial 
urns, in which repose the ashes of the founders of 

our family. Our aim has I n to exhibit the 

trunk and primary branches from which our family 
has sprung, so that the generations present and to 
come may attach their branches thereto, and thus 
keep alive and in vigorous growth the old family 
tree. In reviewing the history of our family, we 
find that they have been mostly plain, practical, 
common people — generally farmers. None of 
them " have stood the applause of listening sen 
ates to command," or "waded through slaughter 
to a throne," but some 'of them have honorablj 
rilled almost every position in life. Some have 
been representatives in Congress and in the Legis 
latures of their respective Stab's. Some have 
been editors, some physicians, some lawyer-, 
Some have been ministers of the Gospel of Christ, 
and some have stood as loyal soldiers on the battle 
fields of their country. None of them have been 
millionaires, but most of them have been well-to- 
do, and none so poor that they could not command 
their own time and lead an independent life. And 
best of all, none have ever lived an inebriate's life, 
or been convicted of an infamous crime. 

That the generations yet to be may emulate and 
excel those past and present, in all that constitutes 
the highest type of intellectual, moral and Chris 
thin manhood, is the wish of the author — Joseph B. 
Wise. 

,\ILLIAM A. PATTERSON, one of the 
leading merchants of Monongahela, is a 
son of Joseph, whose father was Jamas 
Patterson. The latter was born in 1790, 
in eastern Pennsylvania, where he grew 
to manhood, and was married to Mary Watt, who 
bore him twelve children. For his second wife he 




selected Miss Mary Swonger, and two children 
were born to their marriage. He came to Alle 
gheny county at a very early date, and was 
prominently identified with its early development. 
He voted with the Whig party, and in religious 
faith was a member of the United Presbyterian 
Church. The pioneer farm is yet owned by mem- 
bers of his family. 

Joseph Patterson, son of .lames and Mary (Watt) 
Patterson, was born May 28, 1828, near I'.uena 
Vista. Allegheny Co., Penn. , and was there reared 
to manhood. He assisted in the farm duties during 
early life, and when a young man married Rebecca, 
daughter of Col. -lames Scott, who, in his day, was 
a leading citizen of Allegheny county, and a pros 
perons stockman, Mr. Sooti possessed a gifted mind, 
and was a brilliant military officer, having served 
as colonel of the militia in the war of 1812, He 
was married in Allegheny county to Mar\ Van 
Kirk, who boie him the following children: Diana, 
wife of James Wykoff; Susan; John V.; Harvey; 
Samuel; Mary, wife of Samuel Van Kirk; Joseph; 
Rebecca (Mrs Patterson); William; Sarah,; James, 
and Isaac. Mr. Scott was a leading politician, and 
served in the State Legislature. In religious faith 
he was a member of and elder in the Presbyterian 
Church. 

Joseph and Rebecca (Scott) Patterson resided 
on the home place for several years after their mar- 
riage. They then moved to Elizabeth, remaining 
there thirteen years, after which he purchased a 
farm in Nottingham township, this county. He 
sold out a few years later, and coming to Monon- 
gahela successfully conducted a grocery store for 
some time. He was a very prosperous business 
man, taking an active interest in politics, and was 
equally prominent in religious circles, having 
served as an elder in the Presbyterian Churches at 
Round Hill. Mingo, and Monongahela. He died 
in 1889, having reared the following children: 
James S. (deceased), William A. (whose name 
opens this sketch), Mary (wife of A. J. Yohe), 
Vivia (married to James Stewart), and Vernie P. 
(wife of Frank Bebout). 

William A. Patterson was born August 22, 1853, 
near Suiter Station, Allegheny Co., Penn. , and at the 
age of seventeen years came to Washington county. 
He attended the public schools, and the Southwest- 
ern State Normal School at California, Penn., after- 
ward graduating from Duff's Business College, 
Pittsburgh, Penn. Upon leaving college he entered 
the employ of the P. V. & C. R. R. as ticket agent 
at Houston's Run, remaining there but one year. 
He then embarked in mercantile enterprises and 
formed a partnership with his father in the grocery 
store, finally taking a trip to southwestern Arkan- 
sas, where he purchased a sheep ranch. One year 
later he returned to Monongahela, Penn., and 
opened a furniture store at the stand formerly 



264 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



occupied by Swickard's shoe business. Soon after- 
ward he remodeled and took possession of his 
present place of business which is one of the finest 
stores in Monongahela. He carries a full line of 
furniture and undertaking goods, and enjoys a 
large amount of custom. In political opinion he 
is a wide awake Democrat, having served his party 
as a member of the council, and in religion is a 
member of the Presbyterian Church. He married, 
April 14, 1880, Belle, daughter of Ira Bebout, of 
Monongahela. Their children are Ada, Mary, 
Allie, William A. and Bertha. 



JfOHN WILSON, superintendent of Washing- 
ton County Home, located inChartiers town- 
| ship, was born September 15, 1844, in Hope 
well (now Independence) township, Washing- 
ton Co., Penn. He is a sou of Johu and 
Ellen (Murphy) Wilson, natives of County Down, 
Ireland, whence they emigrated in 1838 to Washing- 
ton county, Penn., settling on a farm in Hopewell 
township. Mr. Wilson owned a good farm, and 
followed agricultural pursuits until his death, 
which occurred in 1877, his wife surviving him 
untilJuly, 1878. They were the parents of three 
children: Mary M., wife of John Adamson, of 
Hopewell township; John; and Samuel, married 
and residing in California. 

John Wilson was reared in Independence town 
ship, and received his education in the district 
schools of the same. He commenced life as a 
farmer boy and continued to follow agriculture till 
1882. On April 22, 1875, he was married in Inde- 
pendence township, to Miss Lizzie A. Denny, a 
native of Washington county, daughter of Walter 
and Mary (Welch) Denny, also natives of this 
county. Mr. Denny is a farmer of Independence 
township, and has been a resident of Washington 
county all his life, the Denny family having settled 
here at a very early date. After his marriage Mr. 
Wilson located in Independence township, and in 
1877 removed to Hopewell township, where he 
remained till 1882. when he abandoned farming, 
and engaged in the Revenue service as storekeeper 
and gauger in the Twenty-second District of 
Pennsylvania, in which he continued till Decem- 
ber 1, 1885. He then embarked in general mer- 
chandising at West Middletown, this county, fol 
lowing this until his appointment as superintend- 
ent of the County Intirirjary, which took place in 
1891. To Mr. and Mrs. Wilson have been born 
two children: Annie G. and Mamie E. Mr. Wil- 
son and his wife are members of the U. P. Church 
at Washington. He has been identified with the 
county all his life, and takes an active interest in 
everything pertaining to the welfare of the com 
munity. 



CHARLES BANFIELD. England has given 
to this country some of the most loyal, in- 
dustrious, enterprising and thrifty citizens, 
an excellent representative of such being 
the subject of this sketch, who by hard work, 
thrift and honorable dealings lias succeeded in ac- 
cumulating, from absolutely nothing, a comforta- 
ble competence. 

Mr. Banfield was born in Somersetshire in 1815, 
a son of Joseph and Mary (Cook) Banfield — the 
parents of twelve children, ten of whom grew to 
maturity, now all scattered; some came to America, 
one of whom lives in Johnstown, Penn., another in 
Belmont county, Ohio; Charles and John are in 
Washington county. While our subject was yet a 
child his parents took him to the Forest of Done, 
in Monmouthshire, England. His education was 
very limited, as we find him when but a lad of 
eight years acting in the capacity of "doorkeeper" 
at a coal mine, soon after which he commenced to 
work as a regular miner, digging from the bowels 
of the earth the black diamonds. In May, 1838, 
Mr. Banfield was married in England to Harriet 
Chevers, and in 1842 he set sail for the United 
States, landing in New York in the month of May, 
with his wife and one child. His little savings be- 
ing now gone, Mr. Banfield set about looking for 
work of any kind, and at last succeeded in secur- 
ing a job on a farm in Washington county, during 
the summer of 1842, his wages being 31^ cents 
per day. One of his hands being disabled through 
some cause, he had to do all the work with the 
other. In the fall of the year he returned to his 
old occupation of mining in Pittsburgh, receiving 
$1.10 per 100 bushels of coal. In 1846 he came 
to Chartiers township and bought a fifteen acre 
farm which he continued to work until 1868, when 
he moved into Am well township, where he lived un- 
til 1888, in which year he retired from the farm 
and came to the borough of Washington. Here he 
built himself an elegant residence, into which he 
moved in 1889. 

Eight children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Ban- 
field, of whom the following is a brief record: 
George died in England at the age of two years; 
Mary, born in England, is now the wife of Robert 
Thompson, of Houstonville, this county; John, 
Charles James, Joseph and George, all died young; 
one died in infancy, and Harriet Maria, "last, not 
least,'' the fifth in the family in the order of birth. 
She for many years, with true filial devotion, has 
taken care of her aged parents' home. The mother 
for the past twenty years has been in feeble health. 
In politics Mr. Banfield is independent; he has 
held various township offices, such as superintend- 
ent of the school board. He is a man of advanced 
ideas, gifted with a good mind coupled with sound 
judgment, and on a foundation laid with hardships 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



and cares be has built a record that places him 
among the most successful rneu in Washington 

county, in which success he has been from the out- 
set assisted by a good, sensible, faithful wife. 



I OHN IRVIN, one of the prominent and most 
. I successful native-born agriculturists of Bast 
fli Finley township, was born August 1. 1835 
He is the only living descendant of Francis 
Irvin, a native of Ireland, where he was born 
about the year .1780, and whence he emigrated to 
the United States a short time prior to the com- 
mencement of the present century. He landed at 
Philadelphia, where, after a brief sojourn he mar 
ried a Miss Hayney, of that city, whose parents 
had come from the Emerald Isle. Francis Irvin 
then moved, with his young wife, westward to 
Washington county, this State, where, for a time, 
he made his residence near the village of Cross 
Creek; later came to East Finley township, set- 
ling near the headwaters of Wheeling creek, being 
one 'if the pioneers of that section. Here, with 
his own hands, he hewed for himself a home nil 
of what was then a vast wilderness, and when' are 
uow fertile fields and fruitful valleys. To this 

honored pi er couple were born the following 

named children: Andrew, Nancy, William, James, 
.Margaret, Sarah and Franklin, all now deceased 
except Sarah, who is at present living in Adams 
county, 111. In 1837 Francis Irvin moved from 
Washington county to Adams county, 111., accom- 
panied by his wife and all his children except two, 
Andrew (who afterward migrated to Licking 
county, Ohio) and James, the entire journey being 
made in wagons, and here the grandmother died 
in 1848, and the grandfather in 1849. 

James Irvin, father of subject, was born 
about 1800 in Washington county, Penn., 
where he was married to Martha Harvey, daugh- 
ter of James Harvey, of West Finley township, 
this county, and to their union were born children 
as follows: Elizabeth Ann, married to S. N. Far 
rabee, and died in 1855; John; Martha and 
James (both deceased in infancy). The father 
was called from earth March 21, 1850, the mother 
having passed away October 11, 1839. Mr. Irvin, 
in 1835, purchased the property which our subject 
now owns and resides on, in East Finley township, 
where he carried on general farming with consid 
erable success; he was an extensive cattle dealer 
and drover, and frequently had driven cattle from 
Illinois (where he had purchased them) to the 
Philadelphia (Penn.) market. 

John Irvin, the subject proper of these lines, 
was born in East Finley township, passed his boy- 
hood and youth on his father's farm, and, being 
the only son, his duties were of necessity by no 
means light, and but little time could be spared 



for school training. His mother died when L 
was four years old, and his father's sister, Marga 
ret, took charge of the house. After the deabh of 
his father Mr. Irvin took an extensive trip through 
the States of Iowa and Illinois, at that time in- 
cluded in the "Far West," his journey ings occupy- 
ing over a year's time. On his return to Wash- 
ington county he again took ap farming, aud, in 
connection therewith, engaged extensively in the 
buying, raising aud selling of live? stock. On June 
29, 1859, lie was united in marriage with Eliza- 
beth Ann Blayney, of West Finley township, who 
was born November 17, 1842. and this union has 
been blessed with the following children: James 
H., born June 2'.). I Still, at present managing Ins 
father's farm; William M., born May 15, 1802, 
died August 7, 18S5; Martha Jane, born Septem- 
ber 11. 1804, married to Jesse Montgomery, of 
East Finley township; Mary M., born September 
11, 1866, married to R. A. Marshall, also of Bast 
Finley township; Ada L., born December 19, 1869, 
living at home; Jonathan or "Johnnie," born De- 
cember 15, 1872, died March 21. 1873; Cad B., 
born June 10, 1874, died August 27, 1882; Har 
ve\, born February 1, 1877; Charles O., born 
April 28. 1880, and John, born January 25, L883, 
all three living at home. Soon after his marriage 
Mr. Irvin took up his residence on the old home 
farm, where he has since resided, carrying on gen 
eral agriculture, including stock raising and deal 
ing in wool, but is now retired from active work, 
his farm being managed under his personal direc- 
tion. Politically, he is prominently identified 
with the Republican party; he and his wife are 
consistent members of the Cumberland Presbyte- 
rian Church at Old Concord, in Morris township. 



Jli W. KIMMONS, a leading citizen of West 
l\ Alexander, and a well known justice of the 
4\ peace for that borough, is a native of Wash- 
-* ington county, Penn., having first seen the 
light in West Finley township, September 
20, 1829. He comes of vigorous Scotch-Irish 
lineage, his grandfather, John Kimmons, having 
shortly after his marriage emigrated from his na- 
tive Erin to the shores of Columbia, settling on a 
farm in East Finley township, this county, at a 
very early day. The children born to this pioneer 
were John, Thomas, Samuel, Andrew and Anna 
j (Mrs. Samuel McCoy). The tract of land Mr. 
Kimmons settled on was then all wild wood land, 
and this he and his family largely improved. Here 
he died, full of years and honor, a devout mem- 
ber of the Presbyterian Church, and a stanch 
Whig in politics. 

Samuel Kimmons, father of the subject of these 
lines, was also a native of East Finley township, 
born May 4, 1790, aud was there reared to agri- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



ultural pursuits, his education being received at 
the subscription schools of the period. In 1813 
he was married to Eleanor Boss, who was born 
November 11, 1790, in New Jersey, and they then 
settled down to a co-partnership life on a farm 
situated in West Finley township, near the village 
of Good Intent. Here they remained until 1837, 
when they moved to Marshall county, W.Va., and 
there died, the father February 21, 1875, and the 
mother February 10, 1880. They were members 
of the Presbyterian Church, of which he was 
trustee, and his political preferences were Demo- 
cratic until 1861, when he donned the Republican 
toga. He was a very popular man, and was fre- 
quently called to offices of trust and responsibility 
by his fellow-citizens. The children born to Mr. 
and Mrs. Samuel Kimmons were as follows: Will- 
iam (deceased), Anna (wife of James Potter, of ! 
Adams county. 111.), Jane (wife of George Potter), 
Thomas (deceased), Deborah (deceased wife of 
Noah Trumbull), Abner (living in Dallas, W. Va.), 
A. W. (a resident of West Alexander) and Alfred 
(residing in Ohio county, W.Va.). 

A. W. Kimmons passed his early boyhood at the 
home of his birth, receiving his primary education 
at the schools of the district. When eight years 
old he accompanied his parents to Marshall county, 
W. Va., where he completed his education, and 
carried on farming until 1858, in which year, on 
March 25, he was united in marriage with N. J., 
daughter of Martin Armstrong, a nativeof Donegal 
township, this county, and the children born to this 
union were Laura M. (wife of W. A. McCausland), 
Carrie L. (wife of Theodore Henderson). Annie 
N., Minnie B. and Emma I. 

James Armstrong, father of Martin Armstrong 
(above mentioned), was a nativeof Ireland, whence 
while yet a young man he came to the United States, 
settling in Donegal township, Washington Co., 
Penn. , at a time when the country was entirely 
new. He married Margaret Martin, a native of 
Scotland, and reared a large family of children, as 
follows: Hugh, Mary, John, James, Joseph, David, 
Margaret (Mrs. Robert Stewart). Martin and Sam- 
uel. The father was one of the founders of the 
WCst Alexander Presbyterian Church, and was 
among the first trustees; politically he was an Old- 
line Whig, and at one time served the Government 
in the capacity of scout. Martin Armstrong, son 
of James, was reared to manhood in Donegal town- 
ship, receiving his education at the local schools. 
He was married to Margaret, daughter of Samuel 
Jameson, of Marshall county, W. Va. , and the 
young couple then settled on a farm in West Fin- 
ley township, this county, where they passed the 
remainder of their lives. They were consistent 
members of the Presbyterian Church, of which he 
was a trustee. In politics he was first a Whig, 
then a Republican, and was a prominent member 



of the school board. The children born to Mr. 
and Mrs. Martin Armstrong were Samuel, James, 
Mary M. (Mrs. O. P. Henderson), N. J. (Mrs. A. 
W. Kimmons), Thomas, Lura, Luther, Hattie N. 
(Mrs. John Kimmons), William J. (living in Lin- 
den, Kans.) and Chester, of whom Samuel, 
Thomas, Lura, Luther and Chester are now de- 
ceased. After marriage A. W. Kimmons settled 
on a farm in West Finley township, where he fol- 
lowed agricultural pursuits for twenty eight years; 
he then moved into the borough of Washington, 
remaining one and one half years, or until 1887, in 
which year he came to West Alexander, where he 
has since made his home. The family are all 
members of the Presbyterian Church, of which de- 
nomination at Dallas Mr. Kimmons had been an 
active adherent for twenty-five years. In his 
political preferences he is a straight Republican, 
and has served his township with much satisfac- 
tion in various offices of trust; in 1891 lie was 
elected a justice of the peace, a position he is till 
ing with eminent ability and sound judgment. 



THE CHRIST MAN FAMILY. Enos Lewis 
Chrisfman was the pioneer of the Christ- 
man family in Washington county, Penn. 
He was a son of George Christman and 
Sarah, nee Beerbower, and was born Decern 
ber 27, 1S28, in Vincent township, Chester Co., 
Penn. His father passed from life in 1843, when 
the subject of our notice was under fifteen years of 
age, leaving a widow and two younger children, 
William Davis and Jefferson. The mother was left 
in circumstances which rendered it necessary for 
the elder boys to take care of themselves. 

Enos L. spent the summer of 1844 with an uncle, 
Jacob Beerbower, who kept a store in Brecknock 
township, Lancaster county, where he assisted in 
attending store and working on a farm. Iu the 
fall of that year he returned to his mother's home 
and attended the public school until February 10, 
1845, when he entered the office of the Village 
Record, at West Chester, Penn., and was appren 
ticed to the late Hon. Henry S. Evans, for five 
years, to learn the art, trade and mysteries of a 
printer. He was the successor as an apprentice iu 
that office, of Bayard Taylor, the great traveler; 
Hon. William Butler, judge of the United States 
district court, and of Edward M. Paxson, one of 
the supreme judges of Pennsylvania Here he 
served his master so satisfactorily that when the 
gold fever broke out all over the country, in 1849, 
Mr. Evans not only released him from serving the 
balance of his time as an apprentice, hut advanced 
him $400 in cash to go to California. This money 
was returned at the end of two years with a hand 
some percentage added. 

He sailed from Philadelphia on July 3, 1849, 



u AStilNGTON COt X/) 



269 



in the good ship "Europe," Capt. Addison Plnin 
mer, passing mound Cape Horn, and stopping a 
month at Valparaiso, Ghili, to repair damages to the 
ship. The voyage was an eventful one, occup\inu r 
two hundred and twenty two days, ami landing Mr 
Christman in San Francisco in February, 1850. His 
face, like that of all others at that time, was turned 
toward the gold mines. After suffering many hard 
ships he was soon at work with pick, shovel and bowl, 
trashing the golden sands on the upper waters "t 
tie' Mariposa river. He met witli indifferent success 
as a miner, and in July. I Sol I, lie printed the first 
number of the Sonora Herald, at Stockton, and 
carried it to Sonora on horseback, where it was cir- 
culated at 50 cents per copy. A printing office 
was soon established in a tent in Sonora, and a lit- 
tle later he entered into partnership with Dr. Lewis 
0. (iiuiin, formerly of Philadelphia, and the paper 
was published regularly for several years. After 
roughing it in the Golden State until the fall of 
1852, Mr. Christmas returned lo West Chester, 
Penn., where be married Miss Ellen A. Martin, a 

native of Philadelphia, whose mother dying when 

she was a little child, the daughter was taken to 
West Chester, and raised in the family of the late 
Capt. William Apple, her uncle, as one of their 
own children. 

In November. 185*2, Mr. Christman. with his 
wife, came to Washington, Penn., and he purchased 
a half interest in the Commonwealth newspaper, 
and entered into partnership with George C. 
Stouch, a former fellow-apprentice in the Village 
Record office. The paper had been started by 
Seth T. Hurd. This partnership continued until 
the death of Mr. Stouch; in December. 1855. The 
Hon. William S. Moore subsequently became a 
partner with Mr. Christman in the publication of 
the paper, but owing to the disintegration of the 
Whig party, which cause it had espoused, and the 
formation of new political parties, the paper be- 
came embarrassed, and early in 1858 it was con 
solidated with the Reporter, then, as now, the old- 
est paper in Washington county. After the eon 
solidation, without disposing of his interest in the 
paper, Mr. Christman returned to West Chester, 
where he was employed by his old master. Mr. 
Evans, as foreman in the Village Record office. 
Here ho remained until the Rebellion of the slave 
holders broke out, when he promptly enlisted, in 
the latter part of May, 1861, and became second 
lieutenant of Company K, Fourth Regiment Penn- 
sylvania Reserve Volunteer Corps. With this 
body he served in the field until May, 1863, when 
he was appointed, by President Lincoln, provost- 
marshal of the Seventh District of Pennsylvania, 
embracing Chester and Delaware counties, with 
headquarters at West Chester, tilling the position 
until the close of the war. being discharged No- 
vember 30, 1865. While in the field he partici- 



pated in the battles in front of Richmond (known 
as the Seven Days' tight), the second Bull Run, 
South Mountain. Antietam and Fredericksburg, 
and was promoted first to captain and then to ma 
jor of the fourth Regiment. It is a curious coin 
cidence that the three brothers, all in different 
commands, were almost Bide by side in the bloodj 
battle of Antietam. Enos L. was under Gen. 
Meade, in front of the cornfield to the left of the 
pike; William Davis was a lieutenant in the One 
Hundred and Twenty fourth Regiment, adjoining 
the Reserves on the right, and near to the Dunk 
ard church, while Jefferson was in the Seventj 
second Regiment, lighting on the left of the Re 

serve-,. 

At the close of the war Mr. Christman moved 
with his family to Somerset county. Mel., where he 
engaged in farming and the timber business 
Not succeeding up to the standard of his desires, 
he returned to West Chester and became assistant 
editor with Mr. Edward 15. Moore, in the publi 
cation of the American Republican. In 1872 Hon. 
William S. Moore, his old partner in the Wash 
ington Reporter, having been elected to Congress, 
was very anxious i hat Mr. Christman should return 
to Washington and resume his place iii the printing 
office. This was agreed upon, and on April '2. 
1ST'!. Mr. ('hristman returned to Washington, 
after an absence of fifteen years, and took charge 
of the publication of the Reporter during Mr. 
Moore's absence at the national capital. In Au- 
gust. 1876, the first number of the Daily Reporter 
was issued. Shortly after this Mr. Moore died, and 
his interest in the paper passed into the hands of 
Alex. M (low, Esq. In January. 1883, Mr. 
('hristman purchased the interest of Mr. Gow, and 
became sole proprietor of the paper. He had now 
a family of eight sons and daughters around him, 
and in March, 1891, the Christman Publishing 
Company was chartered, being a family concern as 
the name indicates. At this time Mr. Christman' s 
health failed, and since then he has had but little 
to do with the practical publication of the paper, 
the company, under the leadership of his son 
William, managing it vigorously and successfully. 

The children of this family were: Mary Elizabeth, 
died in infancy ; Sarah, married to Charles M. Hayes, 
and has two sons, Harry and Clyde; Elizabeth and 
Ella; William, married to Miss Fannie M. Morgan, 
deceased in 1801 , having three children, Howard L., 
Frank and Herbert; George, baggage master, 
B. & O. R. It. ; Henry, married to Miss Lena 
Fleissner, and has one daughter, Nellie; Edwin 
A., married to Mrs. Maggie Frazier, and has two 
children, Roy and Hazel; Charles F., married to 
Miss Clara F. Neff. All are residents at this time 
(1892) of Washington, Penn. 

Mr. Christman's youngest brother, Jefferson, 
learned the printing business in the office of the 



270 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



( Commonwealth and subsequently settled in Phila- 
delphia. After serving three years in the Seventy- 
second Regiment, he took a situation in the Public 
Ledger office, where he has been employed as a 
compositor for many years. He married Miss 
Maggie Powers, and they have four daughters, 
two of whom are married — Lillie, to Morris Naylor, 
and Ida, to Harry Conaway. William Davis, the 
other brother, after following the mercantile busi- 
ness for many years in Chester county, removed to 
Washington and took a position in the Reporter 
office. He married Miss Zilpha A. Maxton. They 
have two sons living, Dr. Percy, a successful phy- 
sician at Washington, and Frederick B. , engaged 
in the printing business in Chicago. An only 
daughter, Cora, died in young womanhood, at West 
Chester, in 1879. 

John Reerbower was the father of Sarah Beer- 
bower, wife of George Christman. He was born 
in Vincent township, Chester Co., Penn., March 
10, 1779, and died in East Vincent township, Oc- 
tober 20, 1858. He was a carpenter and farmer, 
and was many years a justice of the peace. He 
was commissioned, by Gov. Simon Snyder, as cap- 
tain of a company of militia in the First Brigade 
of the Third Division of the counties of Chester 
and Delaware, on August 1, 1814, and served a 
tour of duty during the war of that time with 
Great Britain. His wife was Elizabeth Fertig, 
who was born July 20, 1784, and died March 29, 
1828. They are buried at (Brownback's) First 
Reformed church of Coventry. This church was ! 
organized in 1743. Herman Bierbauer was the [ 
father of John Beerbower. He was born in Ger- 
many, July 16, 1741, came to America when a 
young man, died December 29, 1801, and is buried 
at the old Hill church, on the Ridge road, in East 
Pikeland township, Chester county. His tomb- 
stone is lettered in German. His wife was Chris 
tiana Hoffman. She was born October 7, 1747. 
and died February 7, 1826. 

The ancestors of the Christmans were Germans. 
The Colonial records of Pennsylvania show that 
between the years 1730 and 1771, eleven Christ 
mans, several with families, landed at Philadel- 
phia and swore allegiance to King George II. 
This record states that: "Daniel Christman ar- 
rived at Philadelphia September 5, 1730, with 
forty-five palatines and their families, 130 persons 
in all, in the ship 'Alexander and Ann.' William 
Clymer, Master, from Rotterdam, last from Cowes." 
Daniel subsequently settled in Worcester town- 
ship, now Montgomery county, and in 1734 paid 
quit rents in that township. He had five sons 
and one daughter. Felix, the oldest son, was 
born in Germany, the other children in Pennsyl- 
vania, viz. : Henry, George, John, Jacob and 
Magdalene. Of these Felix, Henry, George and 



Magdalene settled in Vincent township, Chester 
county, previous to the Revolutionary war. Felix, 
when an old man, was found dead in shallow 
water, in Birch run, near his home. He was a 
blacksmith. Henry was a saddler and George a 
miller and millwright. 

Henry Christman, the saddler, was born in 
Montgomery county, Penn., December 2D, 1744, 
and settled in Vincent township, Chester county, 
as above stated, where he became the owner of a 
large tract of land, situated on French creek. 
Here he lived during the Revolutionary war, and 
it is handed down as a tradition that he did con- 
siderable hauling for the patriots at that time. It 
is also said that his tine, heavy draught horses 
were sometimes hidden in the thick bushes along 
the creek to prevent them from being seized by 
the British, who ranged through that neighbor- 
hood while Washington was at Valley Forge. On 
one occasion he traded a barrel of whisky, being 
a distiller, and a set of heavy wagon harness for 
forty acres of land, which afterward became valu 
able He died September 16, 1823, and is buried 
in the family burial plot at Zion's church, in East 
Pikeland, Chester county. He married Susanna 
Keeley, who was born February 25, 1750. She 
died September 19, 1823, only three days after the 
decease of her husband, and is buried by his side. 
This couple had three sons — Henry, Jacob and 
George; and six daughters who grew to woman- 
hood — Madeline, married to John Young; Cath- 
erine, married to John Miller; Margaret, married 
to Isaac Hanse; Elizabeth, married to Peter Yea- 
ger;Mary, married to Jacob Finkbiner and Fred- 
erick Yost; and Susanna, married to Frederick 
Oyer. 

George, the younger of the brothers, married 
Elizabeth Brownback, and lived on the old home 
stead on French creek until his death. He was 
born May '•». 1793, and died January 17, 18(36. 
His wife was born January 5, 1793, and died 
March 19, 1870, of gangrene after having a foot 
amputated The old homestead with its many 
acres is still in possession of the family. 

Jacob, the next older brother, was born May 5, 
1 7SS, and died March 2, 1871. He married Mar- 
garet Evans, who was born December 13, 1791, 
and died April 1. 1862. They lived on a farm of 
about 300 acres adjoining the old homestead. 
They had four children: Elizabeth, married to 
Jesse Brownback; Susanna; Jacob, married to Miss 
Hannah Worman, and Henry E., married to Miss 
Martha Christman. The last named retain the 
farm owned by the father. 

Henry Christman, the eldest of these brothers, 
was born March 14, 1779, and died August 12, 
1804. On February 26, 1806, he married Elenor 
Root, daughter of Sebastian Root. She was horn 



ii ASHltfGTON COIXI) 



271 



April 10, 1787, ami died August 19, 1854, while 
on a visit to her daughter, Margaret Buckwalter, 
at Parker's Ford, in Chester county. They lived 
on a large farm adjoining the old Christman home 
stead as well as that of the brother Jacob. These 
brothers were all Stout, able bodied men, of good 
height and build. They were successful farmers 
and distillers, and in their early days sold many a 
barrel and tierce of first quality apple whisky in 
the Philadelphia market. Henry was also the 
owner of an oil mill, which, about the year 1835 
he converted into a flour mill. This with the farm 

ln> retained until his death. He was commissi d 

lieutenant- colonel in the First Brigade in tie' 
militia of Delaware and Chester counties, by Gov, 
Simon Snyder, and served a tour of duty in the 
war of 1812-14 with Great Britain. to this 
couple was born a large family: George, February 
10, 1807; Sarah, February 11, 1809; Susanna', 
March 24, 1811; Henry, August Pi. 1813; Call. 
arine. September 22, 1816; Eliza, October I, ISIS; 
Elenor, April 10, L821; Maria, February Id. 1823; 
and Margaret, November- HI, 1821. Of these 
Sarah and Eliza died in childhood; Margaret mar 
lied Isaac Buckwalter, and died January 16, 1885, 
leaving two daughters; Catharine married Isaac 
Shantz, ami died July 28, L866, leaving two chil 
dren, a son and daughter; Susanna married Mi- 
chael March, and died April P.), 1891, leaving to sur 
vive her two hoiis, Franklin and Jefferson, and 
two daughters, Mrs. Ellen Brownbaclc and Mi 
Emma Miller; Maria married Abraham Penn\ 
packer (she survives her husband and has four 
sons living); Elenor resides with this sister; 
Henry died suddenly July 24, 1865, and was un 
married, 

George, the first born of Henry and Elenor 
Christman, spent his childhood under his father's 
roof.' At the age of twenty-one, December 23, 
1827, he married Miss Sarah Beerbower, and con- 
tinued in the service of his father as farmer and 
teamster until 1835, when he moved to the Seven 
Stars tavern on the Ridge road, in East Vincent 
township, less than a mile from where he was 
born. The farm connected with the tavern was 
worn out and nearly fenceless. He worked hard, 
and soon had things greatly improved in appear- 
ance, building an addition to the house. In the 
fall of 1843, after a prolonged illness, he died of 
fever, in his thirty seventh year. He was a tall, 
angular man with dark hair and eyes. His widow 
subsequently married Henry Huzzard, and died 
April 27, 18(53, in the fifty-sixth year of her 
age. 

All the earlier Christmans were Lutherans, and 
their names are found in the church records of 
that denomination in Chester and Montgomery 
counties. 



FT NDREW SCOTT RITCHIE. The family 
1/ 1\ of which this gentleman was a worthy rep 
r^4, resentative claim their descent from Scot 
11 -* tish ancestry: Andrew Ritchie, grandfather 
of Andrew S., was a Revolutionary soldier, 
and at the close of war came to Cross Creek town- 
ship, settling on a wild tract of laud on Midler's 
run. In 1796 he purchased from Ephrairn Hart 
the farm still owned by the Ritchie family, situ 
ated about a mile from Cross Creek village. His 
wife died fn 1834, aged seventy nine years, and 
himself at the advanced age of eighty five, four 
\ ears later. 

James Ritchie, his son, was born in 1789, and 
received his education at the subscription schools 
of the neighborhood. In 1826 Or 1827 he married 

Matilda, daughter of Robert Rowland, a member 
of an old Washington county family. .lames 
Ritchie was a man six feet three inches in height 
and almost perfect in physique. In politics he 
was an Old line Democrat, and a substantial sup 
porter of the Presbyterian Church under the guid 
ance of Dr. John Stockton. They had two chil 
dren: Andrew S.. and a daughter who died in in 
fancy. He died in 1834, aged forty live, from 
cholera contracted at Pittsburgh, Penn. His 
widow married James Thompson, by which union 

she had one child R. B. Thompson a prominent 
cil izen of West Middletown. 

\ndrew S. Ritchie was born, December 1(1, 1828, 
and reared at West Middletown. When he had 
completed his rudimentary education in the schools 
of his district, he entered the Florence Acadenn 
and then Washington College, where he graduated 
in 1849, dividing first honor with three others 
He commenced the study of law under T. M. T. 
MeKcnnan and after his death continued study 
with Hon. William Mclvennan, being admitted to 
the bar in 1852. He never practiced his profession, 
however, and spent the next few years in teaching. 
In 1805 he accepted the position of paying teller 
in the First National Bank of Washington, Penn., 
which position he Idled until 1890, wheu he was 
compelled to resign on account of failing health. 
During the twenty-five years of his connection 
with the bank he performed his duties ably and 
faithfully, so that he enjoyed the entire confidence 
of the board of directors and the community in 
which ho lived. For many years he was a very 
active member of the board of trustees in the 
Washington Female Seminary and also of Wash- 
ington and Jefferson College. On September 10, 
1851, Mr. Ritchie married Jane, daughter of 
James McFadden, of West Middletown. and they 
had four children, viz.: James McFadden, res id 
ing at Sewickley, Penn. (auditor for the H. C. 
Frick Coke Co., married to Nannie Doyle in 1884. 
They have one child, Charles Lothrope); Charles 



272 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Stewart (assistant cashier of the First National 
Bank of Washington); Annie C. (the wife of Mr. 
Owen Murphy, a prominent operator in the Wash 
ington and Sistersville oil fields), and William 
Bowland (paying teller of the First National Bank) 
Mr. Andrew S. Ritchie was a Whig, but later a 
Republican, and his sons are all Republicans. He 
died, December 10, 1892, of paralysis, from which 
disease he had been suffering for two years. He 
was a member of the First M. E. Church, was 
loved by a wide circle of friends and relatives, and 
was respected by all who knew him. 



J | AMES JOHNSON VAN EMAN. Among 
the leading representative families of Wash- 
) ington county none are more worthy of spe- 
cial mention in this volume than the one of 
which the gentlemen, whose name opens this 
sketch, is an honored member. 

James J. Van Email is a son of Samuel Logan 
and Martha (McConnell) Van Eman, both natives 
of Washington county, Peun. The paternal great- 
great-grandfather, Nicholas Van Eman, who was a 
Hollander, was married to Mary Wilson, and their 
children were George, Nicholas, Andrew, Garrett, 
Katie, Polly, Susan and Hannah. Of these, George 
was born September 12, 1753, in Holland, whence 
he emigrated to America, finally making a new 
home in Washington county, Penn., as one of the 
pioneers of North Strabane township, the place of 
his settlement being a farm near Clokeyville, now 
owned by Joseph Clokey. He married Rebecca 
Scott, and they had children as follows: Nicholas, 
George (a minister), Scott, Jane, Andrew, Rebecca, 
Elizabeth, Joseph, Garrett, William, Sarah, Abra- 
ham and Hannah. The father of this family re- 
moved to Stark county, Ohio, in 1810. 

Joseph Van Eman, son of George and Rebecca 
(Scott) Van Eman, was born December 12, 1790, 
in North Strabane township, this county. When 
he reached maturity he left the paternal roof and 
located on a farm (now owned by Thomas Slater) 
in Cecil township, same county, which he after 
ward sold, and then, in 1818, bought one near 
where is now Vau Eman station on Chartiers 
Railroad, in the same township, and here passed 
the remainder of his days. On February 28, 
181 1, he married Miss Isabel Logan, and the chil- 
dren born to them were Rebecca (married to John 
Johnson), James (deceased in infancy), Samuel L 
(father of our subject), Joseph (married to Sarah 
Lee), Mary (married to Samuel Alexander), George 
(a minister, married to a Miss Bowers), Cyras (who 
died when young), Margaret (married to Israel Be 
bout), Logan (who married Jane Vance) and Sarah 
(wife of Samuel Bebout). The mother of this fam- 
ily was called from earth May 21, 1870, the father 
in 1875. They were members of the Centre Pres 



byterian Church in Peters township, in which for 
forty years he was a ruling elder. He was a man 
of superior mind, and of more than ordinary intel- 
ligence and executive ability. He was a director 
of the poor of Washington county, executor and 
trustee for many estates, and enjoyed the fullest 
confidence and highest respect of the community 
at large. 

Samuel Logan Van Eman, son of Joseph and 
Isabel (Logan) Van Eman, was born July 20, 
1816, on his father's farm in Cecil township, this 
county. On September 28, 1847, he married 
Martha McConnell, also a native of Cecil township, 
born in 1826 to James and Sarah (Phillips) Mc 
Connell, both natives of Washington county, the 
former of whom was a son of Alexander McCon 
nell, who emigrated with his father from Scotland 
or the North of Ireland to Cecil township, this 
county, where both patented laud; and the farm 
which Alexander secured has never been out of the 
family, being now in the possession of his great- 
grandson, John P. McConnell. To Samuel L. and 
Martha (McConnell) Van Eman were born children 
as follows: James J. (our subject); Belle M. , born 
in 1850, married to John N. Brown, son of Rev. A. 
B. Brown, D. D., at one time president of Jeffer 
son College; Sadie- E. (unmarried), and Joseph 
Scott (deceased in infancy). The father of this 
family died October 11, 1891, the mother is still 
living. They were members or the Centre Presby 
terian Church, Peters township, in which he served 
as a ruling elder for thirty-five years; upright and 
honorable in all his dealings, and, like his father, 
executor and trustee for several estates, he was re- 
spected and esteemed far and wide. 

James Johnson Van Eman was born August 31, 
1848, on the old homestead in North Strabane 
township, this county (near Van Eman station), 
and received his education at the common schools 
of his district and at au academy at Elder's Ridge, 
Indiana Co. , Penn., completing his literary train 
ing with a course of study at Washington and Jef- 
ferson College. On leaving the latter institution 
he took up and continued work on his father's 
■ farm — chiefly buying and selling stock — till his 
marriage, February 9, 1871, with Miss Maggie 
Espy, when he opened a store in Thompsonville. 
Peters township. This he carried on six years, at 
the end of which time, finding his health becoming 
impaired, he returned to the farm. Five years 
later he went to Pittsburgh, where for two years he 
had a store for the sale of agricultural implements, 
on leaving which he came to Canonsburg and 
established his present hardware store, tin and 
steel roofing establishment, now one of the most 
extensive businesses in this part of the county. 
To Mr. and Mrs. Van Eman have been born six 
children, viz. : M. Etta, Samuel Logan, M. Maude, 
Nellie, John Espy and James Jay. Mrs. Van 



WASHINGTON COX \ /') 



273 



Email was born in Upper St. Clair townsbip, 
Allegheny Co., Penn., a daughter of John (a fariu- 
eri and Margaret (Smith) Espy, both descended of 
Scotch ancestry. Mr. Van Etnan stands high 
among the leading business men of Washington 
enmity, and enjoys the esteem and respect of all 
who know him. lie and his wife are members of 
the Central Presbyterian Church, of which he is a 
deacon. Mr. Van Eman is mayor of Canonsburg. 
In politics he is a Republican. 



QEORGE 0. JONES is descended from a 
hardy and long lived English family. His 
paternal ancestor, Charles E. Jones, the son 
of an English army officer, was born near 
Leeds, England, in L799. He served an ap 
prenticeship al the carpenter's trade, and by hard 
work and frugal living saved enough to bring him to 
America, when' he came in IN'_'7. Before leaving 
he married Susan Judsou, who had a brother, 
Robert Judson, living near Washington, Penn. 
Here Mr. Jones came, and liking the new country 
immediately sent for his wife and children to fol 
low him. He purchased a lol and built his home 
on North Main street, where the Jones homestead, 
in a more modern form, is now located. 

Charles E. and Susan Junes were the parents of 
ten children, two of whom died in infancy j William 
died in 1853; Sarah died in 1862; Susan died in 
in 1864, just six weeks after her marriage with 
William McClain; Mary married William Work 
man and resides at Washington; Jane, the widow 
of the late William H. Taylor, also lives at Wash- 
ington; James J. became a Methodist minister, but 
death cut short that which promised to be a brill- 
iant career (he died at Denver, Colo., in 1875, 
where he had gone in search of health); Sylvester F. 
also became a Methodist minister, and is at present 
pastor of Emmanuel Methodist Episcopal Church 
at Evauston, 111. Mrs. Jones died in 1871, at the 
age of seventy-one; her husband survived her until 
1883, when his long life of eighty-four years was 
brought to a close. 

George O. Jones, the youngest of the family, 
was born November 19, 1845, attended the Wash- 
ington public schools, and entered Washington 
College as a student; but the Civil war called him 
away from his studies, and on February 26, 1864, 
he enlisted in Company A, One Hundredth P. V. I. 
On the second day of the battle of the Wilderness, 
May 6, 1864, while making his way to the front, 
he was struck in the head by a minie-ball and fell 
unconscious to the ground. He was carried off the 
field for dead, his knapsack emptied of rations by 
W. H. Underwood, who thought George would have 
no further use for such things; but as a grave was 
being prepared, signs of life were discovered in 
him by Dr, Wishart, a surgeou of the One Hundred 



and Fortieth Regiment, and instead of being con- 
signed to the ground he was ordered to a hospital. 
As a memento of this incident, Mr. Jones still carries 
in his pocket a piece of skull bone, about the size "f 
a dime, which was extracted from the wound. 
After recovery, he returned to his company and 
served until the close of the war. He was mustered 
out of service on July 24, 1865. 

In January. L866, he resumed Ins studies at 
Washington ami Jefferson College and graduated 
from that institution in 1N6H. After graduating, he 
entered the law office of John L. Gow, Jr., as a 
law student, and was admitted to the bar of this 
county in August. 1871. In March, I873,he was com 
missioned a notary public, which office he has held 
ever since. At present he has the honor- of being 
the oldest notary public, in time of service, in the 
county. On May 1, 1 s 7 *_! . he married Mi>- Emma 
Kidd. daughter of William and Eliza Kidd. As a 
result of tiiis union, three children have been born, 
William lv. Susan J. and Alice E., all of whom 
are living. He is a member and past commander 
of I'ostXo. L20, G. A. R, Department of Pennsy] 
vauia. He and his family are members of the 
First Methodist Episcopal Church of Washington. 
He is also a trustee of this church. 



JiOEL TRUESDELL, of West Alexander, was 
bom October 17, 1822, in Claysville, Wash 
J ington Co., Penn., where the most of his 
boyhood was passed. The Truesdells are of 
English origin, and in their native country 
were generally engaged in merchandising. They 
emigrated to Connecticut in the early part of the 
eighteenth century. James Truesdell, the great- 
grandfather of the subject of this sketch, was a na- 
tive of Connecticut. He enlisted in the war of the 
Revolution, and died in the service. He had three 
sons, Samuel, James and Joel, of whom Joel was 
born in Connecticut in 1769, and was twice mar 
ried, his first wife beii g Mehetable Bradley, by 
whom he had five children, viz.: Clarissa, who be- 
came the wife of Seth Gaylord, of New Haven, 
Conn. ; Mabel, who became the wife of Ransom 
Brockett, of Bristol, Conn. ; and Josiah, Calvin 
and Abel. At the age of seventy-five years Joel 
Truesdell married, for his second wife, a most es- 
timable lady, Mrs. Sarah Plumb, who lived to be 
nearly one hundred years of age. Politically, he 
was a Demoorat, was for many years a justice of 
the peace, and for several years a leading member 
of the Connecticut Legislature. He was one of the 
original stockholders and directors in the bank of 
Waterbury, Conn. While agricultural pursuits 
were his chief life vocation, he also engaged in a 
number of other lines of business, and was always 
regarded as a valuable counselor, and altogether a 
very enterprising man, much respected for his 



274 



WASII/NdTON COUNTY 



excellence of character, gentleness and kindness of 
disposition, and politeness of manner. He died in 
the year 1856, having been a lifelong member of 
the Baptist Church. 

Josiah Truesdell, the eldest son of the above, 
was born July 28, 1790, in Bristol, Conn., where 
he had the advantages of a superior education. In 
1820 he came to Washington county, Penn., and 
after a year's residence there he returned to his 
native State, and on August 21, 1821, was married 
to Mary, daughter of Daniel Tut tie, a member of 
one of the oldest of Connecticut families. The 
children of this union were: Joel, Luther C. (a 
resident of Claysville), and Sarah M., the wife of 
T. C. Noble. 

Daniel Tuttle, the father of Mary Tuttle, was born 
near New Haven, Conn., and was a son of Samuel 
Tuttle, a direct descendant of William Tuttle, and 
Elizabeth, his wife, who sailed from Wales in the 
ship "Planter," and after a voyage of ten weeks 
landed in Boston, July 1, 1635. William Tuttle 
was one of the founders aud original proprietors of 
the city of New Haven, and owned the present 
site of Yale College. His descendants were lead- 
ing factors in establishing and building up the 
college at New Haven, and include many of the 
besl known names and families of New England, 
amongst them being the Rev. Dr. Jonathan Ed- 
wards, the theologian and president of Princeton 
College; Rev. Dr. Timothy Dwight, president of 
Yale College. Seth Thomas, who became so 
widely known by his extensive clock manufactories, 
was reared in Mrs. Truesdell's father's family, his 
wife being her full cousin. Mrs. Truesdell died 
January 30, 1876. 

In the year 1821 Mr. Truesdell located in Clays- 
ville, and entered into partnership with his brother 
Calvin. At the end of eight years the partnership 
was dissolved, and Calvin removed to Wheeling. 
W, Va., where he 1 engaged in the wholesale dry 
goods business at the corner of Twelfth and Main 
streets, Josiah being a partner in the same busi 
ness. About the year 1834, Calvin removed to 
Licking county, Ohio, where he engaged in agri- 
cultural pursuits. He was a delegate to the con- 
vention which nominated William Henry Harrison 
for the Presidency in 1836. In 1838 he went to 
Lake county, 111., where he resided until the time 
of his death, which occurred in the spring of 1887, 
when he was in his ninety-second year. His son, 
Morgan, was a leading citizen of Lake county, 111., 
having held the offices of recorder of deeds anil 
mortgages, aud also clerk of the courts. His 
grandson, Gaylord Sankston Truesdell, is a well- 
known American artist abroad, having resided for 
the past five years in Paris. He recently contrib- 
uted a picture to the Corcoran Art Gallery at 
Washington, D. C which has elicited a great deal 
of admiration. Josiah Truesdell and his wife were 



ardent Presbyterians, and the present house of 
worship, which was erected in the year 1830, and 
which has been used by the Presbyterian congrega- 
tion at Claysville for the past sixty- two years, was 
erected mainly through the combined efforts of Mr. 
Truesdell aud Rev. Thomas Hoge, the first pastor 
of that congregation, and who. during his ministry 
at Claysville, was a resident of Washington; Mr. 
Hoge agreeing to furnish one-third of the funds 
necessary to erect the building, on condition that 
Mr. Truesdell furnish the two thirds — a proposi- 
tion which was fulfilled on the part of both, each 
giving liberally of his own means. While they 
lived there was the warmest friendship existing 
between Mr. Hoge and Mr. Truesdell. 

Mr. Truesdell was an enthusiastic admirer of 
John Quincy Adams, and gave one of the only two 
votes that were cast for him in Donegal township 
on the occasion of his candidacy for the Presidency. 
He was an enterprising man, ever having the in- 
terests of his borough, township and county at 
heart. In school matters he was very aggressive 
as a champion for a better and more advanced 
system of education. He died November 3, 1830, 
from injuries sustained by jumping from a stage 
coach while descending the hill, just immediately 
west of West Alexander on the National pike, near 
the West Virginia line. He was thus early cut off 
in the prime and usefulness of his life, and no one, 
perhaps, who has been a resident of that section, 
died more deeply lamented. 

Joel Truesdell, the subject proper of this mem- 
oir, received his education partly in the schools of 
his native place, and partly in the select schools of 
Wheeling, taught at the time by Mr. Ezekiel 
Hildreth. father of the late Eugene Hildreth, M. 
D., and Prof. George B. Gow, a relative of the 
Hon. John L. Gow, late of Washington, Penn. 
In 1838 he entered the employ of Wilson & Humes, 
in Claysville. for whom he worked eight years, 
when he removed to West Alexander, and con- 
tinued in the employ of Mr. George Wilson, 
senior member of the above mentioned firm, until 
1852, in which year he embarked in business on 
his own account in that place. This venture proved 
a decided success under his superior energy and 
management, and he not only conducted a general 
store with an endless variety of stock, but also 
dealt largely in wool. In 1870 he retired from 
active business and has since been engaged in 
various other enterprises. On June 30, 1852, Mr. 
Truesdell was married to Elizabeth M., daughter 
of John Valentine, and two children, Mary E. and 
John V.. were born to them, the latter dying 
in infancy. The mother died-iu 1862, and in 1864 
our subject was wedded to Catherine, daughter of 
Isaac Mayes, of West Alexander, and one son, 
Charles L. , who died at the age of five years, came 
to bless this union. 



II asi/im, m\ COUNTY. 



275 



In politics Mr Truesdell was originally a Whig, 
and since the organization of the party lie Las 
been a Republican. He has represented Lis party 
in county and State conventions, lias served his 
township in all its various offices, and has held 
nearly all the positions of trust in the borough of 
West Alexander. He was elected auditor of the 
county in l^Tli, the board of auditors being com 
posed at thai time of himself and Joseph Linton, 
who served with great satisfaction to their con- 
stituents. His party would have been glad at vari 
ous times to have recognized his high qualities lor 
some of (lie best offices in the gift of the county, 
but politics not being in harmony witli his taste-, 
he always declined such proffered honors For 
many years he has been prominently connected 
with the Presbyterian Church at West Alexander. 
in which he is an elder, and he has contributed large 
l\ to its growth and prosperity. He was for many 
years superintendent of the Sabbath school, at all 
times taking a lively interest in its success. We 
may say that no one merits the esteem of the coin 
munity where he has so long resided, or has the 
confidence of the people of the count), to whom he 
is generally known, more than the subject of this 
sketch. Mr. Truesdell is a man of generous in- 
stincts, tal<es a deep interest ill Ills relatives (illd 
friends, and during his life has taken a great deal 
of pleasure out of making frequent visits to the 
old New England homes of his father and mother. 



QEORGE M. WARRICK, senior member of 
the firm of George M Warrick & Sons. 
dealers in general groceries, Washington, 
i is a native of the county, boin in Am well 
township February 28, 1881. His grand- 
father moved, in 1795, from New Jersey to Reaver 
county, Penn., where he died. 

Jonathan T. Warrick, father of George M. , was 
ten years old when he first came to Washington 
county, and seventeen when he finally returned 
to it, after a residence for a time in Beaver county. 
In this county he taught school until he was twenty 
six years old, when he commenced oarpentering 
and cabinet making, but finally abandoned those 
trades for farming, first in Amwell township till 
1S35, afterward in East Finley township, where 
he died in 1846, at the age of sixty-two years. He 
was a surveyor in the county. About the year 
1820 he was married to Miss Mary Slack, a na- 
tive of Washington county, whose parents were of 
English descent, and came here from New Jersey. 
To Mr. and Mrs. Warrick were born nine children, 
as follows: Sarah, wife of Jackson Harshman, in 
South Strabane township; James, married to a 
Miss Wilson, died in Davenport, Iowa, at the age 
of sixty-six years; Matilda, an invalid from the 
age of eighteen years, died in 1890; Mary, de- 



ceased wife of George El) lone of her sons. Dr. 
Ely, lives in Washington, Penn.): Charlotte, wife 
of Elijah Coulson, of Buffalo township; William 
W., married in 1 S -V» to a Bliss Wylie, who died 
in 1891 (he was a contractor lor ten years in com- 
pany with his brother <i "ge M., later went into 

the grocery business with him. but in 1873 he 
withdrew from the firm; he now resides in Wash 
ington); George M. is tin' subject of this sketch; 

Elizabeth is the wife ol W K Long, of Washing 
and Hannah C. is living in Washington. The 
mother of this family passed from earth in 1 S47. in 
Bast t'mlr\ township. 

George M. Warrick was educated in the school-. 
of his native township, and worked on his father's 
farm until sixteen years of age, when. Ins parents 
being now dead, he came to Washington, and 
ed one summer on a farm adjoining the town. 
lb- then commenced learning the trade of carpen 
ter, and two years late: began the business for his 
own account. When about twenty years of age lie 
went to Chicago, then a growing city of 30,000in 
habitants. Returning to Washington, he for some 
years followed contracting, after which, in L858, 
he embarked in mercantile business at his present 
Stand, forming a partnership with his brother 
William W., the stvle of the firm being G. M. t V 
W. W. Warrick, 'About I860 they bought the 
Washington flouring mills, in partnership with John 
M Wilson, carrying on both it and the grocery 
business Some seven years later William W. 
Warrick retired from both concerns, and our sub 
ject and Wilson continued together till 1887, when 
they sold out the mill to Zelt Bros , Wilson also 
retiring from the grocery. Mr. Warrick then 
associated his two sons with him in the grocerj 
business, in which they still continue. 

In 1855 Mr. Warrick was united in marriage 
with Miss Mary Wilson, of Taylorst own, daughter 
of William Wilson, anil five children have been 
born to theru, viz. : Matilda Belle, wife of Rev. 
McCarroll, a Presbyterian minister at W 7 aynesboro, 
Penn.; William J., married to Anna Polen, and 
then removed to Plattsmouth, Neb., where he car- 
ried on a drug business seven years, then sold, 
returned to Washington, and is now with his father 
in the store; John W. , with his father; Rachel 
and Jennie, both at home with their parents. Mr. 
Warrick has been a member of the M. E. Church 
since eighteen years of age. When he united with 
the First M. E. Church of Washington there were 
300 members. Politically he was a Democrat up 
to the Buchanan election, when he enlisted in the 
Republican ranks. Our subject is a typical self- 
made man, having had nothing but his own efforts, 
industry and enterprise to aid him, and when he 
went into business he possessed but a few hundred 
dollars. He never speculated, and never incurred 
a debt that he could not pay inside of six days. 



276 



WASHINGTON COUN T) 



DAVID 'E. BAKER, senior member of the 
) well-known firm of Baker & Worrell, jew- 
elers, was born in Amwell township, Janu- 
ary 5, 1849, a son of Nathan and Maria 
(Horn) Baker. His education was received at the 
common schools and Lone Pine Academy, the chief 
part of his time being passed in the customary duties 
of the farm until he was twenty four years of age. 
In 1873 he was united in marriage with Miss 
Emma, daughter of George Swart, of Amwell 
township, and two children were born to them, 
viz. : Winnie Myrtle and Lida Ray. Lida Ray died 
November 30, L889. The mother died in 1883, at 
the age of thirty-four years, and in 18S7 Mr. Baker 
married Lizzie, daughter of Dr. Elijah Hoffman, 
formerly of Buffalo township, this county, now of 
Wisconsin. To this marriage one child was born — 
Frank N. Mr. Baker opened out a general merchan- 
dise store at Amity , Amwell townshi-p. in 1 873, which 
he carried on until 1880, when he sold out. In 1885 
he came to Washington borough, where he formed 
a partnership with George Brady, in the jewelry 
business, which continued three years, when it was 
dissolved, and Mr. Baker took as a partner a Mr. 
McConaghy, but in April, 1891, the latter retired, 
and Frank N. Worrell took his place, the style of 
the firm being now, as already intimated, Baker & 
Worrell, general jewelers. The firm are popular 
and enterprising, keeping well abreast of the times 
in their line. Socially Mr. Baker is a member of 
the Royal Arcanum, of the Improved Order of 
Heptasophs, and National Union. In politics he is 
a Republican, and in religion a member of the 
First M. E. Church of Washington. His home is 
on Prospect avenue, on the edge of South Strabane 
township. 



brother of the above-mentioned Martin, and fol- 
lowed the trade until 1848. when lie was appointed 
clerk in the postoffice under Jonathan Leet. In 
1850 he opened on his own account a grocery 
store, where Brady's jewelry store now stands, and 
in 1860 formed a partnership with R. F. Strean, 
in hardware and agricultural implements. He 
bought Strean's interest in 1869, and in 1871 he 
removed the hardware business to the store which 
his son, William P., now keeps. In 1878 he asso- 
ciated the latter with hiin, which alliance continued 
until the father's death April 16, INNS, he being then 
seventy seven years old. He was originally a Demo- 
crat, but in 1856 became a Republican; in religion 
he was a member of the Christian Church. Mr. 
Hastings was twice married, first to a daughter of 
James Niehol, of Washington county, whose im- 
mediate ancestry were agriculturists in the early 
days of the county. In 1852 Mr. Hastings mar 
ried Miss Hannah, daughter of Huston Paul, and 
two children were born to them : William P. and 
Anna G., wife of W. S. Harrah, of Allegheny- 
William l J . Hastings was born at Washington, 
Pen n . March 22, 1853. He reoeived a liberal 
education at the common schools of the borough, 
and in 187(1 commeuoed clerking in his father's 
store; in 1878 he was admitted as a partner, as 
already related. He was married to Miss Sarah, 
daughter of A. B. Ashbrook, of Buffalo township, 
in 1875, and two bright boys have come to bless 
their home: Harry, born in 1877, and William, 
born in 1883. Mr. Hastings is one of the well- 
known and enterprising young business men of 
Washington, and represents a family whose pro- 
gressiveness and integrity have never been ques- 
tioned. 




i A\ILLIAM P. HASTINGS, proprietor of 
^\// one of the leading hardware stores in 
Washington, is of English descent, his 
paternal grandfather having emigrated 
from the ''Old Country " to America, mak- 
ing a settlement in Washington, this county, 
where he followed the trade of saddler, and passed 
the rest of his life. He had children, of whom 
John < '. is deceased; William (now deceased) lived 
near Brownsville, this county; Samuel died in 
Indiana; Henderson is deceased; Mary is the wife 
of Hiram Swart, of Amwell township; and Nancy 
is deceased. 

John ('. Hastings was born in Washington, this 
county, in IS 18, anil received his education at the 
local schools. He commenced life a poor boy, ami 
when but eight years of age began to work in 
Jonathan Martin's fulling mill, but later was em- 
ployed on the National pike under this same 

Martin, who was one of tin ntractors. He 

learned the carpenter's trade with Joshua Martin, a 



DAVID McMILLEN CAMFSEY, one of the 
I leading representative and substantial cit- 
' izens of the county, is a native of the same, 
having been born October 18, 1843, in 
Donegal township. 

His grandfather, James Campsey. a farmer by 
occupation, was born June '22, 1 772, in Mounter- 
tany. Parish of Raphoe, County Donegal. Ireland. 
and in 1794 emigrated to America in the ship 
"Liberty." In i 7V»2 he had married Elizabeth 
Johnson, of the same county, born February 1, 
1 771 *, and when he immigrated to the United States 
he was accompanied by his faithful wife and two 
children: William, born July 1. 1793, and John. 
born May 4. 1796. For a few years, or until 1801, 
thev lived east of the mountains, and then proceeded 
westward to Washington county, Penn., making a 
settlement about two miles south of Claysville, 
this section being at that time an unbroken and 
sparsely settled wilderness. When they arrived, 
the neighbors formed a "bee," and built them a 




e ,«* 



V* 







/0K>ruJ~¥<a 




js*> 



WASHL\GT<>.\ ail A 71 



279 



log cabin, the foundation of which was four stumps, 
one for each corner, but oue day being occupied in 
its erection. Here our little pioneer family made 
their home, gradually surrounding themselves with 
the necessaries and comforts of life, and here four 
more children came to enlarge the domestic circle: 
Margaret, born February 20, 1798; Joseph, born 
February 20, 1800; James, born February 20, 
1803, and Rebecca, born June 2. 1805. The head 
of this pioneer family was a vigorous, energetic 
man, incessantly and assiduously toiling to make a 
home for his little ones, and to convert the forest 
wild into a fertile farm. On November 23, 1S4: J >. 
the loving partner of his bosom was called from 
earth, and Mr. Canipsey, having then made an 
equitable division of his property, which was con- 
siderable, retired from active labor, and passed the 
remaining portion of his days on earth with his 
son James. lie died September 1, 1N5I. full of 
years and honor, and was laid to rest by the side 
of his wife in Claysville cemetery. All their chil- 
dren lived to adult ages, excepting Margaret, w^io 
died in her girlhood. 

James Cainpsey, the third son of this pioneer, 
was born February 20, 1803, in Donegal town- 
ship, this oounty, and attended the subscription 
schools of the neighborhood, the building being 
made of logs, while the interior was furnished 
in the most primitive ' manner, the seats being 
merely slabs, and the writing desk another slab, 
supported by pegs driven into the wall. The fire- 
place, which occupied the greater part of one end 
of the school-room, was a "yawning chasm." 
wherein was thrown the wood, which was cut by 
the scholars. The books used in those early times 
were the English Reader, the XJ. S. Spelling Book 
and the Western Calculator. Mr. Campsey was 
a natural mechanic, and could turn his hand to 
almost any kind of work in that line, being very 
ingenious and skillful. He constructed a distill- 
ery complete, including all the plant, which he 
operated for some time, until he became aware of 
the harm liquor was doing among those who 
could not discriminate between use and abuse; he 
then gave up the business, and disposed of the 
plant. Mr. Campsey was twice married, the first 
occasion on November 7, 1827, to Isabella Daugh- 
erty. a native of Washington county, born April 
21, 1811, by which union there were five children: 
Mary Ann,' born Mav 29, 1830; Harriet, born No- 
vember 18. 1832: Margaret E., born May 19, 1835; 
James D. . born May 24, 1838. and a son. unnamed, 
born November 2, 1840, dying four days after- 
ward. The mother of this family departed this 
life April 29. 1841, and March' 10. 1842, Mr. 
Campsey wedded Mrs. Susanna Ralston (also a 
native of County Down, Ireland), widow of James 
Ralston, and daughter of David McMillen, of the 
same township, and two children (twins) came to 



this union: David M. (subject of sketch), and 
Rebecca, born October 13, 1843, died February 19, 
1870. Soon after his first marriage James (.'amp 
sey purchased of Samuel Stokely a valuable farm 
property, comprising 352 acres of prime laud lying 
one and one half miles north of Claysville. to 
which he moved and where he followed farming 
till December, 1809, when he removed to Clay- 
ville, and there lived a retired life, having amassed 
a comfortable sufficiency by hard toil and earnest- 
ness of purpose. On April 4, 1883, he was called 
from earth, his wife having preceded him to the 
long home September 24, 1874. Mr. Cauipsev 
was a member of the Presbyterian Church at Clays 
ville, Mrs. Campsey being a member of the U. P. 
Church of South Buffalo. In politics he was 
originally a Whig, in later years a Republican. 

D. M. Campsey received his primary education 
at the common school of his district, and in 1M>'_' 
entered Millsborongh Normal School, where he re- 
mained one year; in L863 he prosecuted his studies 
in Carversville Institute, and October 19, 1865, 
commenced a commercial course at Eastman's 
Business College, Poughkeepsie, N. Y.,from which 
he graduated in February, 1806. After his grad 
nation, he entered the employ of Lord & Taylor, 
of New York, with whom he remained some time. 
On April 7, 1870, having returned to his native 
county, our subject opened a dry-goods store in 
Claysville, which he carried on eleven years, and 
then in 1878 formed a partnership with R. B. 
Daugherty, in the same line at West Alexander, at 
the same time conducting a hardware store in Clays- 
ville, in company with William Wilson. For many 
years he has been engaged in the wool and grain 
trade, buying and selling, and he is now largely 
interested in the oil business. 

On July 31, 1873, Mr. Campsey was married to 
Addie K., daughter of David Kennedy, and the 
names of the children born to them are James 
Arthur (died September 22, 1876, at the age of 
thirteen months), George A., Susannah J., David 
M. (born March 26, 1883, died July 29, 1891), and 
Donald McLain. The family are adherents of the 
U. P. Church at Claysville, of which Mr. Campsey 
has been a member of Session since 1885. Polit- 
ically he is a Republican, and an active worker in 
the party. Fired by a spirit of patriotism during 
the Civil war, he enlisted for three months in Com- 
pany D, Forty-fifth P. V. I., serving the full term 
of his enlistment. 

1/ If UGH ALLISON ROGERS. Hugh Rodgers 
|wl (for so the name was originally spelled) 
came, in company with a sister, from his 
J) native Ireland to America, and made a set- 

v tlement in Chartiers township, Washington 

Co., Penn. He participated in the Revolutionary 
war. He was twice married, his first wife dying 



280 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



soon after marriage; his second wife was Miss 
Mary Cowden, of Chartiers township, who bore hint 
children as follows: Mary Ann, who died October 1 1 , 
1844, aged twenty-one years; John C. , who died 
August 14, 1845; Elizabeth, married to Rev. John 
Stream, of Columbus Grove, Ohio; Ebenezer Kerr, 
who died September 8, 1886, and Caroline, matron 
of the Washington County Home. The father of 
this family died September 7, 1845. 

Ebenezer Kerr Rodgers was born October 17, 
1828, in Washington county, Penu., and was 
reared to farming pursuits, which he followed for 
some time, but on account of ill health was obliged 
to abandon and seek some lighter open-air employ- 
ment. During the remainder of his life he dealt 
in stock, and for a time was interested in a livery 
stable, which stood where Bane Bros, now are, in 
Washington. On March 4, 1850, he married Miss 
Margaret, daughter of Hugh Allison, of Chartiers 
township. 

John Allison, grandfather of Mrs. Ebenezer K. 
Rodgers, was a native of Scotland, whence he came 
with his family to America about the year 1780, 
and made a settlement in the wild woods of Wash- 
ington county, Peun., which teemed with ferocious 
animals and hostile Indians. The settlers at that 
time never went abroad from their log houses with 
out their trusty rifles, not even to church meeting, 
which was held in an old log edifice that stood near 
where is now the borough of Canonsburg. Serv 
ices were often held in the open air, but, later, 
another and a better church building was erected 
at Buffalo. John Allison married Jennette Brown- 
lee, and by her had children as follows: Gavin, 
born January 29, 1759; Archibald, born Septem- 
ber 29, 1760; William (1), born May 23, 1764, 
died in infancy; William (2), born September 28, 
1765; James, born April 8, 1768; Thomas, born 
June 30, 1770, became one of the first ministers in 
Washington county; Ebenezer, born June 10, 1771, 
died in infancy, and Hugh, born December 2, 1773. 
The parents of this family both departed this life 
in Chartiers township, the father about the year 
1790, and they now rest in the graveyard at 
Buffalo. 

Hugh Allison, son of John, was four times mar- 
ried; the first time before he was twenty-one years 
of age, to Miss Irwin, of Buffalo township, who 
died leaving onechild, Jane, born July 12,1795, 
who married George Morrison, and lived to the ad 
vanced age of eighty three years. Hugh Allison's 
second marriage was with a daughter of John 
Brownlee, and she died leaving two children: 
Eliza, born August 9, 1800. married toWilliam Scott 
and died in Ohio, and Annie, born December 3, 
1801, deceased when young. Mr. Allison's third 
marriage was with Miss McBride, of Washington 
county, and by her he had children ;is follows: Maria 
Reed, born February 12, 1805; Rebecca McBride, 



born September 2, 1807, married to John Hanna; 
Hugh, born April 27, 1810, died young; John and 
Thomas, both deceased. Mr. Allison's fourth wife 
was Jane Gabby, born December 14, 1771, in 
Washington county, daughter of James and Jean 
ette Gabby. By this marriage eight children were 
born, of whom the following is a brief record: 
Jane, born August 11, 1822, is now the widow of 
Joseph McNary; James, born September 18, 1824, 
is now in Nebraska; Margaret, born March fi, 1826, 
married Ebenezer Kerr Rodgers, and died October 
9, 1892; Archibald H., born November 24,1827, 
is now in Chartiers township; HughB. , born April 
20, 1830, lives in Des Moines, Iowa; a daughter 
(name not given), died unmarried; Ann Henderson, 
born June 27, 1833, lives in Chartiers township, 
and Ebenezer, born August 12, 1835, lives on the 
old home farm in Chartiers township. The father 
of these families died September 2, 1853, at the 
age of eighty years. He was from early manhood 
an elder in the North Buffalo Seceder Church, was 
a prominent temperance advocate, and succeeded 
in having the first temperance society formed in 
his vicinity. He was one of the first to refuse 
liquor to farm hands while working in the field. 
He was a great reader, and had a large library of 
books. He was a man of strong will, of very pro- 
nounced opinions, and was an advocate of women's 
rights. At the time of his death, which occurred 
suddenly from an attack of colic in 1853, he was 
the owner of 400 acres of land in Chartiers town- 
ship. His widow passed from earth December 14, 
1870, aged eighty years. 

After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Ebenezer K. 
Rodgers remained a year on the farm, and then re- 
moved into the borough of Canonsburg, where they 
resided sixteen years; thence, in 1867, moved into 
Washington, where their home has since been. 
The children born to them are seven in number, 
viz.: Jane A., at home; Hugh Allison and Eben- 
ezer Allison, both in Washington; Mary, at home; 
John C, in McDonald, Washington county; Frank 
F. , in Indianapolis, Ind. ; and Harry Hanna, a 
civil engineer engaged by the Pennsylvania Rail- 
road. On September 8, 1886, the father of this 
family departed from earth, having for the last 
year of his life been confined to the house. He 
was a good business man, possessed of a very even, 
quiet disposition, and at all times exercised great 
patience. In his political preferences be was a 
Republican, and in religious sentiments a member 
of the U. P. Church of Washington. 

Huon Allison Rogers was born September 24, 
1855, in Canonsburg. Washington Co., Penn., 
where he received a portion of his education at the 
public schools. About the year 1867 he came 
with the rest of his father's family to Washington, 
and there, at the public schools of the borough, and 
by a short attendance at Washington College, com- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



281 



pleted his education. He then commenced the 
study of law in the office of John W. & Alvan 
Donnan, and on finishing his studies was admitted 
to the bar of Washington county in L882, prior to 
which he had been appointed a notary public. In 
1SS4 he was appointed cashier of the People's 
Light & Heat Company, which position he is 
now holding. Politically he is a Republican, a 
strong worker for his party, but no office-holder. 
He is a member of the U. P. Church, and librarian 
in same; was at one time a lieutenant in the 
National Guards of Pennsylvania, serving some 
eight or nine years. On September 30, 1885, Mr. 
Rogers married Miss Mary J. Murray, who was 
born September 23, 1861, a daughter of John 
Murray, of Washington. One bright Little girl has 
come to brighten their home, named Florence, 
born July 18, 1889, and one boy, named Hugh 
Donnan, born January 5, 1893. The family resi 
deuce is ou Jefferson avenue, in Canton township. 



L H ICHAEL RYAN, proprietor of Washing 
\w/\ ton Carriage Works, was born at Ping 
XI j hamtou, N. Y., September 16, 1851 
j -* His parents. Martin and Mary (Fitzpat- 
rick) Ryan, natives of County Galway, 
Ireland, came to America in 1847, and made their 
first home in New York State, where their three 
children were born; subsequently the family moved 
to Ohio, and thence, about the year 185 1, to Wash 
ington county. The father died in Ohio, and his 
widow afterward married John Maloney, who was 
killed on the railroad July 12, L866. She resided 
with her son Michael until she died, on January 28, 
1892, at the age of seventy five years. The chil- 
dren born to her marriage with Martin Ryan are 
Bridget, wife of Henry Kane, of Donegal town- 
ship; and Michael and James, both residents of 
Washington, Penn. 

Michael Ryan, of whom this notice is written, 
obtained his education in the common schools of 
Washington county, and very early in life, owing 
to the limited circumstances of his parents, had to 
earn his own living. In 1868 he entered the car 
riage works of S. B. & C. Hayes, where he re 
mained until he finished his apprenticeship, and 
then commenced work with Hayes & Wilson, re- 
maining in their employ about eleven years. In 
1881, in conjunction with his brother, he estab- 
lished a carriage factory, the style of the firm be- 
ing Washington Carriage Works, Ryan Bros., 
proprietors, for the manufacture of light carriages. 
This partnership continued until January, 1891, 
when his brother retired. Mr. Michael Ryan has 
conducted the business alone since that time. In 
1889 a commodious brick building was erected on 
East Beau street, which, in 1891, was remodeled 
and enlarged, and the industry has grown until it 



is now one of the foremost manufacturing estab 
lishments of Washington, and in the carriage build- 
ing line it is in reality the only one devoted exclu- 
sively to the making of light vehicles in Washing- 
ton. Mr. Ryan commenced lffe a poor boy. but 
by energy, perseverance, and strict attention to 
business he has deservedly earned an almost pbe 
nomenal success. He never married. Politically 
he is a Democrat, and has been a member of 
Washington borough council. 



JAMES W. KUNTZ enjoys the distincti f 
being one of the oldest residents of Wash 
ington borough. His grandfather, Michael 
Kuutz, a laborer by occupation, came unac 

companied, in 178S, from Lancaster ( ity. Penn., 

to Washington county, and bought land where now 
stands Brady's jewelry store, in the borougb of 
Washington. 

Here Michael Kuutz built a cabin, but ou ac- 
count of the Indians his family did not Come out 
until May, 1790. He returned to Lancaster county, 
and there died in 1794; he was a Freemason of 
high standing. His widow survived him until about 
the year L850, when she was called from earth at 
the advanced age of eighty five years; she was his 
second wife, and there is no record of any children 
by his first marriage. To his second- union live 
children were born, of whom we find the names of 
George, Jacob, Sophia (Mrs. George Burker, for 
merry of Washington) and Mrs. Reddick (deceased). 
The family crossed the mountains on pack horses, 
the packs or saddle-bags being made of homemade 
linen, and when the little boys were tired walking 
they were placed in the pockets of these saddle bags. 
George Kuutz, born in Lancaster county, Penn., 
January 25, 1785, was about six years old when 
brought to Washington, and here he lived at the 
same place about fourscore years, dying July 18, 
1870. He was a hatter, who, in 1810, opened a 
factory in Washington where hats were made by 
hand. This business he continued until 1844, 
when he retired. In 1818 he married Elizabeth, 
daughter of James Wisbey, of Washington, and 
seven children were born to them, viz.: Michael 
and James W., both in Washington; one that died 
in infancy; Brady, a physician, who died in Wash 
ington March 26, 1863; Sophia, who married 
Charles Hayes, and died in Washington in 1854; 
Philip, who also died in Washington, and Stephen, 
who died in April, 1891, at the age of fifty-six 
years. The father was called from earth July 18, 
1870, at the age of eighty-six years. He was a 
Jacksonian Democrat, and for a time served as 
borough treasurer. He was a Freemason, having 
been initiated in 1824. The mother died April 21. 
1884, aged eighty-four years. 

James W. Knntz was born February 20, 1821, 



282 



MWSHJXGTON COUNTY, 



in an old log house which stood on the same piece 
of land on which he now resides. He received his 
rudimentary education at the public schools of the 
borough, and later attended Washington College, 
at which time he beffame acquainted with James G. 
Blaiue. He learned the trade of cabinet maker 
with Thomas Bryson, ultimately buying a half-in- 
terest in the business, in which he continued 
several years. In 1 84'.), being seized with the 
"gold fever," he set out for California, across the 
plains, the journey occupying six months. His 
health, beginning to fail in that laud of promise, 
and having a friend whose mind was affected, he 
concluded, in 1851, to return to Pennsylvania. 
While en route the friend became totally demented, 
jumped overboard and was drowned, and Mr. 
Kuntz, now alone, continued his homeward trip. 
He then opened a leather store in Washington, 
which he carried on successfully for twenty years, 
when he sold out and moved on his farm in Frank- 
lin township, but in 1887 returned to Washington, 
where he now lives compaVatively retired. In 
1865 Mr. Kuntz married Nancy, a daughter of 
Samuel Workman, of Washington. No children 
have been born to them. Politically he is a Demo- 
crat, and has served as burgess of Washington some 
six or seven years. Socially he is a Freemason. 



GHARLES G. McILVAIN, a young attorney 
of Monongahela, and a progressive, native 
born citizen of the county, is a lineal de 
scendant of the time-honored pioneer, Greer 
Mcllvain, who came to this county from the east- 
ern part of the State prior to 1788, and patented a 
large tract of land in Somerset township. 

Charles G. was born April 0, 1862, in Carroll 
township, a son of Greer and Elizabeth (Williams) 
Mcllvain, the former of whom was a grandson of 
the pioneer Greer Mcllvain, a sketch of whom and 
the immediate ancestry of our subject appears else- 
where. Charles G. received his primary education 
at the common schools of his district, and at the 
age of fifteen he entered the Southwestern Normal 
School at California, Penu., on leaving which he 
for some time attended Jefferson Academy. He 
then entered the law school in connection with the 
University of Michigan, from which he graduated 
in 1885, and on his return home was admitted to 
the bar of Pittsburgh. He has succeeded in build- 
ing no a large practice and highly respectable cli- 
entage in that city, and along the Monongahela 
valley. 

On April 9, 1890, Mr. Mcllvain was married to 
Nancy M., daughter of Capt. Peter Donaldson, of 
Brownsville, Fayette Co., Penn., and one child, 
Ruth, has come to brighten their home. Mr. Mc- 
llvain is a Republican iu politics, and resides at 
Monongahela. 




K. LONG, one of the best-known bus- 
iness men of Washington and second to 
none in popularity, in the county, as a 
dealer in footwear, is a native of Wash- 
ington, Penu., where he first saw the 
light November 13, 1835. 

His father, William Long, was born in August, 
1786, iu Manheim township, Lancaster Co., Penn., 
where he learned the wagon maker's trade. About 
the year 1800 he came to Washington, where he 
established himself in the wagon making business, 
which he carried on up to the time of his death iu 
IMS. By industry he amassed a competence, but 
lost it all through ill advised liberality and mis 
placed confidence iu human nature. He was a 
member of the Lutheran Church. In 1822 he mar- 
ried Miss Catherine, daughter of John Krider. 
(This John Krider conducted a. farm iu Canton 
towuship, but removed to Illinois, where he was 
thrown from a horse, receiving injuries from which 
he died at Fulton, III., at the age of eighty-four 
years. ) To William and Catherine Long were 
burn eight children, as follows: Susan, wife of W. 
W. Davis, of Guernsey county, Ohio; Nancy, John 
and Catherine (all three deceased — John at the 
age of twelve, and Catherine when about eight 
years old); Mary, wife of Jesse Allen, iu Knox 
county, Ohio; W. K., our subject; Eliza, wife of J. 
O. Vankirk, in Franklin towuship; and Ellen, 
married to J. J. McWilliams, near Edinborough, 
Erie Co., Penu. The mother of this family died 
in 1872, at the age of seventy-five years, while 
staying at the house of her daughter, Mrs. W. W. 
Davis, then living in Canton township. 

W. K. Long received his education at the public 
schools of the place of his birth, and grew to man- 
hood on the John Coulson farm. In August, 1862, 
he enlisted in Company F, Fifteenth Cavalry (An 
derson), in which he served until June, 1865, when 
he was honorably discharged. He was with the army 
of the Cumberland, participating in its almost 
innumerable battles and skirmishes, but came 
through without a wound, although at the battle 
of Saudridge, Tenn. , he had a horse shot under 
him. He was sick for several months, in 1863, at 
Nashville, Tenn. On his discharge he returned to 
his native county, and remained iu Buffalo towu- 
ship until 1866, when he came to Washington and 
clerked for Warrick Bros., grocers and millers, 
until 1875, in which year he entered into partner- 
ship with G. M. Warrick & J. M. Wilson, grocers, 
and at the end of two years they opened out a shoe 
store where Mr. Long is now established, the part- 
nership in both industries continuing until July, 
1889, when it was dissolved, our subject carrying 
on the boot and shoe business alone. In Novem- 
ber, 1872, Mr. Long married Elizabeth, daughter 
of Jonathan T. Warrick (a sketch of whom will be 
found elsewhere), by which union there are two 



WASH IX G TOX COVN T V 



l'.s:i 



children — Mary L. and William W. — both at home. 

The family are members of the First M. E. Clmrch 
of Washington. Politically, Mr. Long is a Repub 



TIMOTHY HARE. To beautiful Erin, the 
land of which Moore has so sweetly sting, 
and which has given to the world so man} 
of its brilliant statesmen, jurists and soldiers, 
Washington county is indebted for many of 
her substantial, progressive and loyal citizens, 
among whom may be justly included the gentle 
man whose name opens this biographical memoir. 
Timothy Hare was born in County Clare, Ire- 
land, in 1838, a son of Timothy and Catherine 
(Holloran) Hare. The father died there in 1847. 
When about sixteen years of age (1854) our subject 
emigrated to America, coming to Washington county, 
where he first worked on the farm of Robert M. 
Patterson, of Cross Creek township, for S8 per 
month, remaining with him two years. He had 
been barely that length of time in the land of his 
adoption when he found himself, by dint of hard 
labor and careful thrift, enabled, though yet but a 
mere boy, to send means to his native land to bring 
to Washington county his widowed mother and 
one of his sisters. The mother died in Washing 
ton in 1887 at an advanced age. She was the 
mother of nine children, all of whom died in Ire- 
land, save three: Timothy, Bridget (Mrs. Shaugh- 
nessy) and Mary (Mrs. Farrell), both residents of 
Pittsburgh, Penn. In 1853 the second sister emi- 
grated. After a time Mr. Hare commence'! the 
huckstering business, carrying goods to Pitts- 
■burgh each week; then worked a farm in South 
Strabane township for one year. In 1874 he em- 
barked in the present grocery business in Washing- 
ton, in which he has met with exceptional success, j 

In 1801 our subject was married to Margaret, 
daughter of Thomas Breen. To them nine chil- 
dren were born, namely: John F.. in Washington: 
Thomas, near Pittsburgh; Timothy, a tailor in 
Cadiz, Ohio; James, in Washington; Mary, Cath- 
erine J., William and Margaret, all af'home with 
their parents; Charles died some sixteen years ago, 
at the age of six months. Mrs. Hare is a native of 
Ireland, and was brought to this country when a 
small child. In 1880 Mr. Hare built the house in 
Washington, which is now the family home. In 
religious faith he is a Catholic, in politics a Demo- 
crat, but at elections he asserts his right to exer- 
cise his own judgment, regardless of party lines. 



JfOHM H. MURRAY. The antecedents of this 
gentleman came to Washington county at an 
) early day. John Murray, his father, married 
Margaret Henderson, who resided near Clays- 
ville, this county, and by her had six children. 



viz. : Hannah (deceased, was twice married. Her 
first husband's name being Murphy, and her 
second husband's Lavery); Michael, now living 
in Sedalia, Mo. ; Charles, James and Thomas (all 
three deceased), and John H. , the subject of this 
sketch. The father, who was a teamster by occu- 
pation, died in August, 1830, when John H. was 
lint six months old, the youngest in a family of six 
children; the mother afterward moved to Illinois, 
where she died of cholera in 1852. 

John H. Murray was born February 12, 1830, in 
Buffalo township, Washington Co., Penn., and at 
the common schools of the neighborhood received 
his education, which, as he had to apply himself 
to work on the farm in early boyhood, was of 
necessity very limited. In 1849 he went West, and 
for two years followed agricultural pursuits in 
Illinois, and worked as a farmer and carpenter part 
of the time in Pennsylvania and the balance of the 
time in Illinois. In 1862 he enlisted in Company 
C, 22nd P. V. O, and participated in several 
engagements. In January following his enlist- 
ment, he was taken sick, for fifteen months was 
confined in hospital, and after his discharge as a 
convalescent he cooked for the officers' mess, one 
year. At the close of his term of service, June 1, 
1865, he was mustered out with his company, and 
he then returned to Washington county, taking up 
his temporary residence in Buffalo township. Soon 
afterward he commenced a butcher business in 
Claysville, which he carried on one year, and then, 
in 1871, removed to Washington and opened out a 
meat market on Wheeling street, which in 1874he 
moved to Main street, and in 1886 to his present 
stand, on North Main street. On February 6, 
1855, Mr. Murray was married to Sarah A., 
daughter of Joseph Magill, a resident of the Clays 
ville neighborhood, but in 1857 she was taken from 
earth, leaving one daughter, then only fourteen 
months old, now the wife of David Sample, Jr., of 
Washington. 

In the spring of 1861 Mr. Murray married, 
for his second wife, Elizabeth J., daughter of 
Joseph Hutchison, now deceased. To this union 
four children were born, viz. : Mary, wife of Hugh 
Rodgers, Washington; William H. , who is in part 
nership with his father; Annie, wife of Thomas 
Blair, of Wheeling street, Washington; and John 
E. , living with his parents. Mr. Murray is one of 
the many progressive and prosperous self-made 
men of Washington, and is esteemed by a host of 
friends whom he has gathered around him by his 
thorough business habits and social qualities. In 
his political preferences he is a straight Democrat, 
but finds no time for office aspirations. His com- 
fortable and commodious home is on Highland 
avenue, one of the most beautiful streets in the 
borough. 



284 



U ASHINGTON COUNTY 



G CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS COOL. As 
the student of human nature looks on the 
h men and women who have risen from the 
ranks to positions of eminence in the world 
of literature, politics, science, art or religion, he 
will fain inquire, "Whence came they? Amid 
what scenes did these giant minds unfold? in what 
social circles were they first introduced to the world 
which they have conquered." From the vast 
majority comes the ringing answer, " The dear old 
farm was our childhood home; our early social en- 
joyments were found on the glittering pond, by 
the woodland river, in the husking bee and the 
Amid these scenes our minds were 
'far from the madding crowd's 
we learned from self-sacrificing, 
the lessons of self denial aud per 
which to conquer first ourselves, 
God bless the farmandthe 
They are the rocks on which 



harvest home, 
nurtured, and 
ignoble strife,' 
toiling parents 
severance, with 
and then our foemen 
farmers of our land. 



our nation rests, and the history of their lives 
should be treasured by every patriotic citizen of 
America. 

Gilbert Cool was born about the year 1794, east 
of the Alleghany Mountains, and came to Wash 
iugtou county, when a young man. He decided 
to learn the blacksmith's trade, and accordingly en 
tered a shop of one John McCounell, living near 
Paris, where he learned his trade. His employer 
had a fair young sister in law, Rebecca Moore, and 
Rebecca soon became the bride of Gilbert Cool. 
They located in Frankfort, Beaver Co., Penn., 
where he followed his trade, and being both ener- 
getic and industrious, soon acquired a comfortable 
property. Time passed on, and one by one chil- 
dren came to bless their union, until the following 
names were added to their family circle: William 
(who died at the age of forty years), was a farmer 
of Allegheny county, Penn. ; John, a farmer living 
in Allegheny county; Augustine, also residing on a 
farm in Allegheny county; Christopher Columbus, 
mentioned below; Thomas, an agriculturist of 
Allegheny county; Sarah, deceased in youth; 
Verlinda, deceased wife of William Dawson; and 
Alice, deceased wife of Philip Stronse, of Beaver 
county, Penn. Some years after his marriage Mr. 
Cool purchased ami moved upon a farm near Flor 
ence, in Hanover township, which he afterward 
sold at a handsome profit, and then bought 175 
acres in Findley township, Allegheny Co., Penn., 
where his remaining years were passed. He was 
a hard working, successful business man, and in 
politics was an Old line Whig, afterward uniting 
with tin' Republican party. He possessed a robust 
constitution, and was ill but for a short time be- 
fore his death, which occurred November 9, 1879, 
followed by his wife a year later. They are buried 
side by side in Hopewell cemetery, Allegheny 



county. Both were members of the Presbyterian 
Church. 

Christopher Columbus Cool was born April 7, 
1839, near Florence, Washington county. He re- 
ceived his earlier education at the common schools 
of the neighborhood and then took a short course 
at Mt. Union College, Stark county, Ohio, fitting 
himself for school teaching. After leaving col 
lege, he, in company with several classmates, made 
a western tour, visiting the principal cities of 
Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Indiana, Kentucky and 
West Virginia, many of the present large cities of 
those States being but villages at that time. He 
taught school in Wayne county, 111., also in many 
of the western towns, and having satisfied his 
curiosity concerning the resources of the western 

States, returnedto the home farm, teaching scl I 

during the winter season. On June 14, 18(55, ho 
was united in marriage with Eliza Jane Culbert- 
son, who was born September 7, 1889, being the 
youngest of three children born to David and 
Elizabeth (Whittaker)Culbertson. Her father was 
a representative farmer of Hanover township, and 
was for many years an elder in the Cross Roads 
Presbyterian Church at Florence, this county. 
Two daughters have been born to the union of 
Christopher Columbus Cool and Eliza Jane Cool, 
namely: Allie Etta, and Effie Dora, both of whom 
are living at home. Since his marriage Mr. Cool 
has resided on his father-in law's farm, one half of 
which was purchased, successfully devoting his at- 
tention to agriculture and stock raising. He is a 
progressive, energetic citizen, thoroughly posted 
on general topics, and an enthusiastic supporter of 
the Republican party. He and his family are' 
members of the Presbyterian Church at Florence. 



JOHN P. WILSON. The family of which this 
gentleman is a worthy representative are of 
North of Ireland descent. Robert Wilson, 
the grandfather of our subject, emigrated to 
this country, aud made a settlement on a farm in 
Cecil township, Washington Co., Penn., where he 
died. He had married a Welsh lady, who bore 
him seven children: James, William E., Thomas, 
Isabel (Mrs. Buchanan), Mary, Annie and Jane 
(Mrs. James Campbell) — all now deceased. 

William E. Wilson, father of John P., was in his 
day a prominent agriculturist of Smith township, 
this county, where he bought a farm and made a 
settlement April 10, 1829. He had married, in 
1822, Miss Margaret, daughter of John Park, a 
sketch of whose family follows this. To this union 
were born eight children, viz.: Sarah Ann; Sam- 
uel P., in Burgettstown, Penn.; Martha (widow 
of Alexander Russell), also in Burgettstown; Nancy 
(deceased |; Isabella; John P.; Rebecca, of Bur- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



285 



gettstown, anil William L., who lately moved to 
that town. The parents both passed away on their 
farm in Smith township, the father in 1871, at the 
age of nearly fourscore yearH, and the mother in 
1884, at the age of eighty- four years; they were 
members of the Secedei Church of Burgettstown, 
be being an elder in same. 

John P. Wilson was born December 11, 1837, 
on the old home farm in Smith township, and lived 
thereon until he was twenty-nine years of age. 
On January 10, 1807, he was married to Miss Jane, 
daughter of John Reed, Escj., a descendant of the 
Heeds, who came in 1775 from Lancaster county, 
Penn.. to this county. They settled in Mt. Pleas- 
ant township, on what is now known as the Me 
Bride farm, where they made improvements. This 
land, they claim, was unjustly taken from them by 
Gen. Washington. Being thus deprived of their 
land in Mt. Pleasant township, the family. moved 
to Cecil township, where their descendants are now 
to be found. David Heed married Margaret May, 
who bore him eight children, all now deceased, 
viz. : Alexander, David, Polly (Mrs. George Mur- 
ray), John (father of Mrs. John P. Wilson), James, 
Ins. -ph. Jennie, and one that died in infancy. 
John Reed graduated from college when sixteen 
years old and on November '_! 1, 1821, settled down 
to farm life in Mt. Pleasant township, where he 
passed the remainder of his days. He was mar- 
ried to Jane May, of Cecil township, and nine chil- 
dren were born to them: Phcebe (deceased); 
Margaret, in Washington county; David, in Bur- 
gettstown; John (deceased); George Murray, living 
at t lie old home; Jane, wife of John P. Wilson; 
Samuel, in McDonald, this county; Mary, at home, 
and Elizabeth, in Cecil township. The mother of 
this family died in 1844, aged forty-one years; the 
father in 1877, at the patriarchal age of ninety 
one years. Politically he was first a Whig, after 
ward a Republican; for many years he served as a 
justice of the peace, and for several terms he was 
in the State Legislature; for twenty-five years or 
more he was a member of the Seceder Church at 
Hickory. After marriage Mr. and Mrs. John P. 
Wilson remained in Smith township twenty-two 
years, then for two years resided in Canonsburg. 
whence in April, 1891 , they moved into the borough 
of Washington, where they have a pleasant home, 
the residence having been built by their two sons 
— J. Reed and William Park — who comprise all 
their family. John P. Wilson has been a lifelong 
agriculturist, but is now, although still retaining 
his farm, retired from active work in that line. 

The Pakk Family. Tradition says that in 1787 
John Park, then twenty eight years of age, was mar- 
ried in Washington county, by Rev. John McMillan, 
D. D., to a young daughter of Hon. John McDowell, 
of Chartiers township. This John Park was 
born December 18, 1758, a son of Samuel and Mary 



Park, who came hither before their marriage, from 
the North of Ireland, the voyage lasting six 
months, on the same vessel. Samuel Park was an 
importer of horses from the mother country, and 
in pursuit of his business he made three trips to 
the land of his birth. In this country he settled 
in Donegal township, Lancaster Co., Penn. In 
the fall of 1777 he came to Washington county, and 
for the sum of £450, or about $2,160, pur- 
chased of Matthew Rodgers some 500 acres of wild 
land, the bill of sale being dated December 7, 
1777. He then returned to Lancaster county, and 
sent out his sous, John and James, to clear some 
of this land, which they did, also erecting a log 
cabin and planting a crop, their sister Isabella ac- 
companying them, to keep house for them. Sam- 
uel Park was a hardworking, industrious man, 
widely known and respected for his strict integ- 
rity. 

James Park, one of his sons, was born in 1760, 
He was with Col. William Crawford in his expedi 
tion against the Indians in northwestern Ohio, in 
1782. His wife was Isabella Craighead, and their 
children were: Samuel; George; James (deceased 
December 8, 1811); Mary, married in 1782 to Col. 
John Marshall (They then settled on Cross Creek, 
this county. Col. Marshall was born in 1740, and 
when the Revolutionary war broke out he entered 
tin- patriot army as a subaltern; he participated in 
thirteen battles, and at Trenton was severely 
wounded, a bullet entering his left side; was then 
promoted, and after the surrender of Cornwallis 
was made a brevet-major, Gen. Washington pre- 
senting him with a sword, which is now in the pos- 
session of his grandson, C. R. Marshall, of Rich 
land county, Ohio. The Colonel lost a brother at 
the battle of Brandy wine. Col. Marshall took part 
in the Whiskey Rebellion, was one of the "Coun- 
cil of Safety" held at Mingo Creek July 23, 17114, 
and at Monongahela City August 14, following, he 
presented the resolutions which were adopted; he 
was colonel of a volunteer regiment. In 1802 
he was elected to the Ohio State Legislature, and 
reelected in 1803-04. He died in Ohio September 
27, 1821, his wife several years later. They were 
the parents of ten children); Isabella Park was 
born in 1764, and was married in 1784, to Robert 
McGee, by whom she had five children (he died in 
1796, his widow passing away in Clark county, 
Ind.); Hugh Park, born in 1767, died while a 
young man. 

John and Sarah Park for a time lived in two 
small cabins, a few feet apart, but later removed to 
the homestead, or "Deer Park," as it was called 
upon the death of John's father. They were the 
parents of ten children, of whom the following is a 
brief sketch: Agnes, born July 31, 1783 (was mar 
ried to John White); John, born September 16, 
1792 (married in 1820, to Ann Colmery, who died 



286 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



January 8, 1823, and he afterward, in 1827 mar- 
ried Martha Couley); Samuel, born Decembei 25, 
1795 (graduated from Jefferson College afterward 
,a U "ht school, also surveyed; died in 1823, rom 
r/effectsof a fall from a roof); William, born 
July 15, 1797 (in 1831 bought 300 acres of land in 
Peters township; in 1833 he married Jane Law; 
was a member of the board of trustees of 
Jefferson College; a director of the Chartiers 
Valley Railroad; thirty years an elder of Centre 
Church; died November 6, 1870 iMargare^ born 
Marchl5,l800(marriedinl822toWdliamEW 1 l- 
aon); James was born November, 30, 18U2, Isa- 
bel born May 16, 1805 (married in 1831, to Henry 
vice); Sarah, born December 18, 1807 (married 
John Hickman); McDowell was born March 6, 181U, 
Rebecca, born November 14, 1814 (married James 
Rankin, of Washington. Penn.. and died April 18 
1S75). The father of this family served as a scout 
in the Revolutionary war. 




C CRAVIN is a son of Thomas Cravin, 
who was a native of Mifflin county, Penn., 
where he was reared and educated. W hen 
a young man he went to Guernsey county 
Ohio and was there married to Sarah 
Chalfant, a native of that county who l.ore hun six 
children, namely; Mary, wife of John Reed , Edith, 
married to Robert Jobes; Rachel, deceased; \\ < . , 
Thomas, and Tilson, who died in infancy. For lus 
second wife Mr. Cravin was married to Caroline 
[ngraham. He was a painter by trade, and 
followed that business throughout active life. 
He came to Brownsville. Penn., soon after his 
first marriage, and in 1852 went to California 
Penn., where he died in 1886. and was buried in | 
tha , viU age. In politics he was formerly an 
Abolitionist, then united with the Republican 
party, and in religion was a member of the M. E. 
Church, which he served as class-leader and 

' 'w^O Cravin was born February 16, 1843, in 
Brownsville, Fayette Co., Penn., and came with 
his parents to California, Washington Co Penn 
when but nine years of age. He attended the Ca - 
ifornia Normal School, also Dull b Business Col- 
lege, at Pittsburgh. On September 21, 1861. he en- 
listed in Company C, 85th P. V. I and was first 
sent to Washington, D. O, thence to the army of 
the p otom ac. He was in the Peninsular campaign, 
and being sent to North and South Carolina took 
p ar t i„ the battles in the latter State. When Grant 
took command of the army of the Potomac. WO. 
Cravin again entered that division, and partici- 
pated in Grant's advance on Richmond. Ate. 
the expiration of the three years for which he had 
entered the service, he reenlisted, and was appoint 

,.,l ca ptain of Company E, 199th Uegiment P. V. I. 



He served in that rank until mustered out at Rich- 
mond June 25, 1865, when he returned to J^ 
ington county, Penn. On December 4, 1866, he 
w£ united in marriage with Nancy, daughterof 
Samuel Rav. In 1867 Mr. Cravin opened a grocery 
establishment which he conducted for twelve years, 
when he sold out and in INS- entered the employ- 
ment of the Yohe brothers, with whom he is ye 
encased In political opinion he afhl.ated with 
thf Republican party until the Prohibition move- 
ment was organized, with which he is now in hearty 
Sympathy. In religious faith he is a member of 
the M. E. Church. 

■ 

AMUEL M. TEMPLETON. proprietor of 
drug store, Washington, is a native of the 
borough, born in June, 1835. His grand- 
father Dr. S. Murdoch, established a drug 
business in Washington many year s *g°, which the 
father, of our subject, Dr. Joseph Templeton who 
was a physician of prominence in his day, entered 

'" Samuel M. Templeton attended the common 
schools and college of the place of his birth receiv- 
ing a good practical education, and in 185,> began 
earning tin drug business in the store tha had 
been established by his P^^i^^^ 
coming a regular pharmacist. In 1861 he enlisted 
comnj B b TWlfrh P V I-, serving three 

in Company A, Iwelttn i. v. j.., » , 

months and after his discharge returned to Wash- 
ington, where he resumed the drug business at the 
same stand that had been previously occupied DJ 
his grandfather and father. . 

On June 10, 1868, Mr. Templeton was married 
to Rebecca, daughter of Alexander Murdoch of 
Washington, by which union there are three chil- 
dren -Alexander M., Nelly and Betty-all yet hy- 
ing at home. Politically our subject is a Repub- 
lictn, but is no office seeker. In church connection 
t he is of the United Presbytenan fn.th. His ,es 

dence is on North Main street, just outside the 
' borough limits. 



THOMAS JEFFERSON DUNCAN was born 
in the borough of Bridgeport. Fayette 
county, Penn., February 11, 1845 On his 
mother's side, his ancestry, which had been 
American-born for several generations, was 
of English extraction. . 

Dr Benjamin Stevens, his grandfather, emigrat- 
ed from Maryland to Fayette county, where he 
was a widely known practitioner of medicine and 
where he established and for many years operated 
an iron forge. Though dying before he attained 
old ace. Dr. Stevens left to survive him several 
children of whom one, Priscilla, was the mother 
of the subject of this sketch. H,s immed.ate 




•TT. 




trusv^L r-u> 




C-OCst^ 



WASlll.Xi; TON COUS I ) . 



289 



paternal ancestors wen- Irish, but of Scotch origin. 
The latter part of the eighteenth century was not 
onlj a period of general European wars hut of 
profound discontent among the sons '>f Erin, and 
open rebellion against English rule. The sue 
cesses of Sir John Jarvis and Admiral Duncan cm 
the water, the overthrow of the United Irishmen 
and the complete suppression of the revolt by the 
storming of the camp on Vinegar Hill, established 
the supremacy of England, and many a brave 
Irishman preserved his life and his liberty by flight 

from his native laud. It was during these stormy 
tunes that Arthur Duncan sought refuge in 
America ami settled in Fayette county, I'cim. 
There he pursued his vocation of an iron worker 
at the forge of Dr. Stevens, already mentioned. 
He left a family of eight children, of whom the 
following are Mt ill living: Enos Duncan, Mrs. 
.lane Stanford, Mrs. Elizabeth Doolittle, and Hon, 
Thomas Duncan, who was the oldest, is now (1893) 
eight) seven years of age, lives in Bridgeport, 

Payette Co.. Penn., and is tie- father of the 
subject of this memoir, lie was at limes an active 

politician and was elected commissioner of his 
native county (Fayette), and for ten years served 

as one of the judges of its courts. Some years ago 
he withdrew from business and public affairs, and 

iH now leading a retired life. In earl) maul d 

he married l'riscilla Stevens, who died in lS7:i at 
the age of sixty six years. She was a woman of 
more than ordinary strength of character, took a 
lively interest in the charitable ami benevolent 
enterprises of the community in which she lived, 
and left a monument in the memories of the people 
with and for whom she labored. The fruit of this 
union was five children, viz.: Sophia, now deceased, 
who was married to W. II. Laning; Elizabeth, 
now widow of William Worrell (deceased), ami a 
resident of the above menl ioned borough of J .ridge 
port; Dr. W. S. Duncan, a physician ami surgeon 
of wide reputation and extensive practice, who 
died in 1892; Arthur Duncan, whose death occurred 
as he was about entering manhood, and Thomas 
Jefferson Duncan, whose name stands at the open 
nig of this article. 

His boyhood days were spent in his native town, 
where he attended the graded public school. 
Soon after leaving this school, lie was placed un- 
der the tuition of \i. N. Hartshorn, an enthusiastic 
and successful instructor, who afterward became a 
professor in the college at Mt. Union, Ohio. It 
was at this time in his career that young Duncan, 
at •about the age of eighteen years, first turned his 
attention to pedagogism. He was elected teacher 
of a school in Wharton township, one of the 
mountain districts of Fayette county. In this 
region, " far from the madding crowd's ignoble 
strife," he passed one winter amid experiences 
that were as novel to him as the rugged and snow 



clad sce'nerj of the mountains was grand and im- 
posing. He not only labored for (he children but 
lived among the people. Here were social ens 
toms, phases of life, and revelations of fact that 
were as strange to the' new 'master'' as they were 
real. As he once expressed tin' situation: "He 
not only taught lessons in the three It's from the 
books, but learned lessons from the pages of life 
and the volume of nature." Having completed 

this engagement, I ntered Mt. Union College, 

Ohio, and was (here during the bitter contest in 

1864 between the faculty and tile -Indents relative 
to the authority of the former over the literary so 
cieties. The college authorities, of course, tri 

umpired, and several of (he undergraduates who 
were most active in I he affair were dismissed from 
the institution. Others vol ii ntarih withdrew. Dun 
can was among the latter ami with one of his 
friends, now Rev, John II. Hartman, was soon 
afterward pursuing his sludies in Vermillion In 
stitute, at rlaysville, Ohio. His name appears 
for two years in (he published catalogue of this 

scl I. which, under the supervision of Rev. Sand 

era Diefendorf, was then a flourishing academy, 
attended by hundreds of students from ( 'an ad a and 

eleven Stales of the I'llioli. While here his 
health became broken, and he was forced to return 
home for its recuperation. He was able to 
resume his studies in the spring of 1866, and 
matriculated in Washington ami Jefferson Colleee, 
at Washington, Penn., from which he was gradu 

ated two .ears later. The class of 1868 was of 

the largest ever sent out by this institution, and on 
its role of membership are the names of gentlemen 
who have since attained distinction in their several 
professions. Among them are Prof. D. J. Me 
Adam, Hon. H. .1. Eckly, S. H. Fisher, ('. E., 
.lames S Mooilead, Esq., Rev. T. J. Sherrard, 
Rev. L. M. Gilleland, Hon. W Ii. Sutton and 
others. During his senior year he was both 
student and teacher in the college (officially tutor), 
and, as such, had partial charge of the classes of 
the preparatory department. After graduation he 
was invited to continue this relation, but, declining 
so i,. do, accepted the Superintendency of the pub 
lie schools of his native (own, and continued in that 
position for two years. Throughout his term of ser\ 
ice he was energetic in the administration of both 
the methods of instruction for use by the assistant 
teachers and the affairs of discipline among the 
pupils; and it is said there are now men in (he 
community, whose heads begin to show the silvery 
touches of years, who when as boys on mischief 
bent, learned by experience, at this time, that the 
way of the transgressor was hard. His next move 
was to East Liverpool, Ohio, where he had been 
elected Superintendent of Schools. The condition 

of educat tonal affairs here required a complete reor 
ganization of the system. His plans were, how 



290 



WASHINGTON COUN TV. 



ever, supported by the Board of Control, aud he 
had the co-operation of a corps of efficient teachers. 
The schools grew rapidly in both membership and 
reputation under his management, which con 
tinned two years. He had, when at college, regis- 
tered himself as a student of law in the office of I. 
Y. Hamilton, Esq., and he gave up his position at 
East Liverpool with a view to the completion of his 
professional studies. The fall of 1872, however, 
found him in the ranks from which he had so re- 
cently withdrawn. This time he was located in 
Pittsburgh, Penn., where he continued four years, 
having supervision, as Principal, of the public 
schools of the Fifteenth and Seventeenth Wards of 
that city. As a disciplinarian h? was considered 
firm if not rigid; in methods of instruction he was 
progressive; and his schools were frequently visited 
by teachers from other sections of the city. His 
field of labor was, however, more extensive than the 
district. He was an active member of the College 
of Principals, a frequent instructor at teachers' in- 
stitutes of the city, at times accepted invitations 
to render similar services for conventions in other 
counties, lectured at the Teachers' State Associa- 
tion, and was an occasional contributor to the press 
on subjects relating to the profession in which he 
was engaged. During the preceding years, he had 
devoted what time could be appropriated from 
other duties to his legal studies, and, in the fall 
of 187T>, was admitted to practice law in the courts 
of Washington county. Subsequently he was ad- 
mitted to the Supreme Court of the State, and such 
of the United States Courts as business or other 
matters rendered desirable. In the summer of 1876 
he first located and offered his services as a law 
yer at Washington, Penn., where, without in- 
terruption, he has continued the practice of law 
ever since. This was the year of the memorable ! 
Presidential campaign in which Tilden and Hayes 
were the rival candidates. Mr. Duncan threw 
his energies into the contest, and proving an ac- 
ceptable speaker addressed numerous meetings 
throughout the county, making acquaintances aud 
friends as he went. It was not long until he found 
himself with a fair clientage, and his practice has 
steadily increased until he is now one of the hard- 
est worked members of the bar. As a lawyer he is 
faithful and devoted to his clients and persistent 
for their welfare and success, or, as has been 
sometimes said, stubborn in the advocacy of causes 
entrusted to his care. His library is well sup- 
plied with books, which, in the preparation of 
cases, are brought into frequent requisition, and 
his briefs usually tend toward elaborateness rather 
than otherwise. He is an earnest, persistent 
worker, valuing time according to the results that 
may be wrested from it: and people who know 
him attribute whatever success he has attained as 
largely to level headeduess and patient work as any 



other elements of his character. In politics he 
has always been a Democrat, and in the campaigns 
preceding general elections usually stumps his 
own and other counties in behalf of the party with 
which he is identified. While thus interested in 
politics, and often a participant in the counsels 
and conventions of the party of his choice, he has 
never sought for himself the reward of office but 
has uniformly refused to be a candidate for positions 
of a political character. The only apparent excep 
tion to this statement wasiu 1870. That year he was 
the nominee for district attorney, an office, which 
falls within the line of his legitimate professional 
life and to which only lawyers are eligible. In 1888 
the Democratic Convention of the Twenty- fourth 
Congressional District nominated him as the party 
candidate for Congress in opposition to his known 
wishes. The convention had been in session two 
days, during both of which in response to inquiries 
he had telegraphed forbidding the use of his name 
and stating his unwillingness to accept the posi- 
tion, if tendered him. Disregarding his protest, 
the convention proclaimed him the candidate and 
appointed a committee to give him formal notice 
of its action. His name was at once published 
throughout the district as the party representa- 
tive, and it was said created enthusiasm under the 
belief that it indicated party success. The com- 
mittee of notification just mentioned consisted of 
James H. Hoover, of Fayette county ; Joseph A. 
Skelly, of Allegheny; James Smith, of Greene; and 
John P. Charlton, of Washington. When waited 
upon by them, Mr. Duncan adhered to his original 
resolution and declined to accept the nomination. 
The prospects of his election were considered flatter- 
ing, and the district is now represented by a Demo- 
crat. The reasons assigned by him were of a per- 
sonal and private character arising chiefly from a 
desire to apply his time and energies to the welfare 
of his family and to business affairs. In his letter 
of declination, which was widely published and 
quoted from, he stated that "among his party 
associates he did not recall a single individual to- 
ward whom he entertained the slightest feeling of 
political animosity or whose advancement he would 
willingly impede in the least, that he united 
with unabated interest in the efforts of the people 
to maintain their liberties against the encroach 
ments of power unjustly exercised whether mani 
festing itself in the form of monopolizing combina- 
tions and trusts, corporate aggregations or official 
usurpation, that he was uncompromisingly opposed 
to legislation in the interest of favored classes, to 
the squandering of the public domain, to oppress- 
ive and unnecessary taxation direct or indirect, 
and to the tendency during the past few years to a 
centralization of power in the administration of 
governmental affairs, and that he adhered to the 
principles of just government administered wisely 



WASHING rOX ( 'OUN T) . 



■I'M 



and economically for the peace, safety and pros- 
perity of its citizens as a whole, without prefer 
ence or favor as to class, locution, race, or other 
b;isis of distinction." 

In religion Mr. Duncan is more immediately as- 
sociated with the denomination of Methodists, in 
which he has been a communicant for many years. 
At the time this sketch is written (1893) he is con- 
nected with the First M. E. Church of Washington, 
Penn., and has for years past been a member of its 
Board of Trustees and Treasurer of its Stewards' 
Fund. In addition to his professional duties Mr. 
Duncan is connected with various business and 
other organizations of the community and county 
in which he resides, to some of which he sustains 
official relations. Among them are the following: 
Director and Vice-President of the Farmers and 
Mechanics National Bank of Washington, Penn. ; 
member of the Board of School Directors; Trustee 
and chairman of the Finauce Committee of the 
Dime Savings Institution of Washington, Penn. ; 
Chairman of the Board of Examiners of the Courts 
of the county; Trustee of the Young Men's Chris- 
tian Association; President of the Society for the 
Prevention of Cruelty to Auimalsaud Children;Cur- 
ator and Treasurer of the Citizens Library Associa- 
tion, and others. In July, 1880, he was married to 
Miss Eleanor Morris, for a memoir of whom and for 
reference to his domestic life see the article imnie 
diately succeeding this. 

Mrs. Eleanor M. Duncan is the wife of T. J. 
Duncan, Esq., whose life is outlined in the last 
preceding sketch. She was born in West Browns 
ville, Washington Co., Penn., December II, 1856, 
ami is a descendant from two families well known in 
Revolutionary and Colonial times, of whom, per- 
haps, the most noted representatives are Capt. 
Jonathan Morris, a soldier of the Revolution, Dr. 
Jonathan Morris and Benjamin West, the cele- 
brated artist. Her maternal grandfather was W. 
H. Miller, a native of Barren county, Ky., who 
was born in 1800, and died in Hart county, said 
State, at the advanced age of eighty-two years. 
His wife, Elizabeth, died at Louisville, Ky., in 
1857. They had issue five children, all girls — 
Mary E., Emily, Louisa, Julia, and Sarah J., who 
wps born in February, 1825; she is the mother of 
the lady whose name commences this article, and 
now resides with one of her daughters at Bennett's 
Station, Penn. She is said to have been a young 
woman of rare beauty, and at the ago of nearly 
eighteen years was married to Capt. Benjamin 
F. Morris, who was fifteen years her senior. 

Mrs. Duncan's paternal ancestry includes two 
distinguished Quaker families, the Wests and the 
Morrises. David Morris emigrated from Wales, 
and married Mary Phillipine in or about the year 
1685. Their home was on the west bank of the 
Delaware river, below Philadelphia, where their 



children, David, Isaac, Elizabeth, Mordecai and 
Jonathan, were born. The family increased rap- 
idly and was distributed through several eastern 
counties of the State. A recent historian says: 
" Every branch of it retained the names David, 
Jonathan, Isaac and Mordecai. Notwithstanding 
the fact that they were Quakers, they took part in 
the Revolution, several members of the family 
serving throughout the war in the Continental 
Line." Among the early settlers of western Penn- 
sylvania was Jonathan Morris, a grandsou of 
David (the Welshman), who, soon afterthe Revolu 
tionary war, came with his family from the East 
and settled in Washington county among the 
Quakers, in what is now East Bethlehem township. 
He had previously married a sister of Benjamin 
West, the famous painter. The Wests were also 
Quakers, and members of that family came, 
about the same time, to Washington county, the 
name still being borne by later generations in the 
eastern part of the count v Judge William West, 
the blind orator of Ohio, is a descendant of Jona- 
than West and a relative of the Mrs. Morris al- 
ready named. Jonathan Monis died about 1788. 
Four sons survived him. In a late publication it 
stated that three of them were soldiers in the war 
for American independence. They were Joseph, 
David (who was for many years keeper of the cele- 
brated hostelry, the "Globe Inn,'' of Washington, 
Penn. ), Jonathan (a captain of the Revolutionary 
war, who is said toahave equipped, at his own ex- 
pense, a full company of Continental soldiers; was 
wounded at the battle of Brandvwiue, and died in 
Fredericktown. Washington county, in 1838), and 
Jesse (who was born in 1771). 

On April 12, 1749, Jesse Morris married Sarah 
Blackmore, the day before slu> was seventeen years 
of age. Their children were eleven in number, 
viz.: Rebecca, Elizabeth, Mary Ann, Sarah, David, 
Almira, Martha W.. Benjamin F.. Cynthia, 
Adelia M. and Jesse J. Benjamin F. Morris, the 
father of Mrs. Duncan, was born in Washington 
county, May 3, 18011, and died at Fredericktown, 
said county, June 18, 1882. He was for many 
years a steamboat pilot and captain on the Ohio 
and Mississippi rivers, where he was known not 
only as a genial, kind-hearted man, but also as a 
courteous, prompt and efficient officer. He aban 
doned river life about the commencement of 
the late Civil war. Capt. Jonathan Morris, of 
Revolutionary fame, at the time of his death, in 
1838, had willed or given his nephew (Capt. B. F. 
Morris) his blue military cloak. For it the latter 
seemed to possess a peculiar affection, and, in ac- 
cordance with his request, this cloak became his 
shroud and was buried with his body in the Quaker 
burying ground of Westland. During one of his 
trips on the Ohio river, Capt. B. F. Morris met 
Miss Sarah J. Miller, at Louisville, Ky. , and they 



'292 



WASHING TON C '0 UN T 5 '. 



were afterward married August 15, 1842. Their 
married life was spent chiefly in Pittsburgh, West 
Brownsville and Fredericktown. The product of 
this union was nine children, viz.: Jesse J., mar- 
nod to Nancy E. Sharpneck; Mary E., married 
first, to Leroy Hiller, and, after his death, to W. 
\V. Reeves; Adelia M., who died at the age of 
about two years; Sarah Louise, married to John 
Orumrine; L. Franklin, married to Jennie Cowden; 
William B., who died in infancy : Samuel, married 
to Annie Reece; Eleanor, the subject of this 
sketch; Loreua M., married to John V. Stathers, 
and died September 21, 1883. All whose deaths 
are not mentioned are at this time (1893) living in 
or near Pittsburgh, Penn., except Mrs. Duncan. 
When Mrs. Duncan was about two years of age, 
her parents changed the family residence from 
West Brownsville to Fredericktown, where she re- 
ceived the first elements of her education in the 
public school. In 1809 the Morris family removed 
to Pittsburgh. Here she attended the schools of 
the Seventeenth Ward, in which she completed the 
course of study in 1873. At this time her present 
husband was Principal of the schools, and she 
came under his surpervisory if not immediate con- 
trol. The acquaintance thus formed soon grew to 
a friendship and ripened into that more ardent 
passion that culminated in their marriage in 1880, 
after Mr. Duncan had established himself in his 
legal practice at Washington. They have resided 
there ever since. She is a reader of books, takes 
an interest in the political as well as other current 
news of the day, is a ready and entertaining con- 
versationalist and a pleasing entertainer at her 
handsome home where she receives her many 
friends. They have one child, a daughter, called 
Ina, who is now (1893) past eleven years of age. 
Soon after completing her studies in 1872, the 
subject of this sketch, then in her seventeenth 
year, was elected teacher of one of the schools of 
the Thirty first Ward of Pittsburgh from which 
she accepted an invitation to a position in the 
Fifteenth Ward, where she continued until her 
marriage in 1880. During this time she held a 
Professional Certificate, received a Teacher's 
Permanent Certificate from the State, and was 
elected a member of the Pittsburgh Academy of 
Teachers. She is a member of the M. E. Church, 
and is identified with various benevolent enter 
prises conducted in its behalf. As an amateur she 
lias for her own pleasure devoted a portion of her 
.ime for several years to art studies, and has pro- 
duced a number of paintings in oil, which have 
received favorable comment from critics and pro 
fessional artists. During the past year Mrs. Dun- 
can served as a member of the Ladies Auxiliary 
Committee of Pennsylvania for the World's Fair. 
She was an active worker, and rendered efficient 
services in promoting an interest and securing sta- 



tistics or exhibits of women's work for the Colum 
bian Exposition from the district to which she was 
assigned. 



f [ AMES FRANKLIN TAYLOR, one of the 

best known and influential native born at- 

vij torneys of Washington county, first saw the 

"-^ light of day in South Strabane township, 

January 15, 1854. 

The first of his family to come to Washington 
county was Henry Taylor, who moved hither from 
Cecil comity, Md., sometime prior to 1780. Wash 
ington county was erected in March. 1781, and 
Henry Taylor became the first judge or president 
of courts therein, his appointment, which was 
dated October 2, 1781, coming from the chief exec- 
utive council of Pennsylvania. He served with 
much ability as judge some years, and after a short 
interval was reappointed September 30, 178S, to 
the same position. He married Jane White, who 
bore him eleven children, of whom Matthew was 
the grandfather of the subject of these lines. 
Henry Taylor took up a "tomahawk right" to 
over 1,200 acres of land in the Rich Hills, in this 
county, all of which, with the exception of the 
Matthew Taylor estate, of South Strabane town- 
ship, has passed out of the family. This sturdy 
old pioneer passed away from the scenes of his 
busy and eventful life in 1800. In addition to his 
civil offices, he was a general in the militia, and 
his commission is still in the possession of the 
family. 

Matthew Taylor, son of Henry, and a native of 
South Strabane township, this county, is claimed 
as having been the first white child born west of 
the mountains. He was a farmer by occupation, 
owningtheold homestead, and traveled considerably 
all over the county, which, in those early days, was 
a matter of no small enterprise. He married Miss 
Nancy Hutchinson, a woman of strong character, 
powerful will, thrifty in the extreme, the antithe- 
sis, it is recorded, of her husband. Of this union 
were born eleven children : Matthew, James, 
Thomas, George and William H. H. (all of whom 
died in Washington county), Polly (Mrs. John 
MacFarland), Sarah Jane (Mrs. Oliver Lindsay), 
Eliza (Mrs. Van Eman, in the West, the only 
member of this family now living), Henry (killed 
by a falling chimney, at a fire in Washington), 
Nancy (Mrs. Hugh Reynolds) and Rachel (Mrs. 
Workman Hughes). The mother died at the patri- 
archal age of niuety-two years, leaving to her chil- 
dren the imprint of her resolute and startling 
character. 

William Henry Harrison Taylor, son of Matthew 
and Nancy Jane (Hutchinson) Taylor, was born 
in 1830 in South Strabane township, Wash- 
ington Co., Penn., educated at the schools of his 



II ASHINGTON COi ! .\ TV 



295 



district, attending also Washington and Jefferson 
College, several years, and on the old homestead 
was reared to the multiform duties of farm life. 
In 1850 he married Miss Jane E. , daughter of 
Charles E. Jones, who was born in 1799 in Eng- 
land, where he followed the carpenter's trade, and 
where he married Susan Judsou. In 1827 they 
came to America, settling in Washington, Penn., 
where he continued his trade in connection with 
contracting for house building. Mr. and Mrs. 
Jones had the following children: Mary, Sarah, 
two that died in infancy, Jane E.. William, Susan, 
Sylvester F., James J. and George O. The mother 
died in 1871, aged seveuty-one years, the father 
January 11, 1883. 

To Mr. and Mrs. Taylor were born six children, 
of whom the following is a succinct record: Ed- 
ward M., pastor of the Tremont VS.. E. Church at 
Boston, Mass. (in 1872 he graduated from Wash 
ington and Jefferson College, and afterward with 
first honors at Boston School of Divinity; was on 
the circuit for a time, prior to locating in Massa- 
chusetts; married Miss Mary Bradford, a descend- 
ant of a " May Flower " family); James Franklin, 
the subject proper of this sketch; Emma, wife of 
John A. Hall, assistant postmaster at Washington, 
Penn.; Alice, who died at tin- age of eleven years; 
William Nelson, senior member of the firm of Tay- 
lor & Speer, in the iron commission business at 
Pittsburgh, and who married a daughter of Ste- 
phen Crump; Susan Jane, wife of Dr. Mauni, of 
Washington. 

Mr. and Mrs. Taylor remained on the farm until 
1806, when they moved with their family into 
Washington, for the purpose of educating their 
children, where he opened a general fresh and salt 
meat business, including pork packing and stock 
buying, and formed a partnership with Robert 
Charlton, which continued till the latter' s death, 
after which Mr. Taylor carried on the business alone 
till the time of his decease, February 9, 1884, he 
being then fifty-four years old. He is buried in 
Washiugton cemetery. A stanch Republican and 
a loyal American, he took a strong interest in all 
national matters, political or otherwise, but was 
no office seeker. During the war of the Rebellion 
he was a fearless, out-spoken Union man, frequent 
ly even to the extent of exciting the ire of some 
less loyal acquaintance. He was a consistent 
member of the M. E. Church, and one of the lead- 
ers in the congregation in building the new First 
M. E. church, at Washington, of which he was a 
trustee. He was a pronounced advocate of educa- 
tion, and gave his children every advantage pos- 
sible in that line, sending his sons to college and 
his daughters to seminaries, and held the office of 
school director at different times. He was, physic 
ally, a strong, vigorous man, but succumbed to 



diabetes, from which he was a sufferer for several 
years. Honest in his dealings, a despiser of shams 
of all kinds, and a hater of deceit and mendacity, 
he made and kept hosts of warm friends, who re- 
spected and honored him for his many virtues. 
Since his departure, his widow, still hale and 
hearty, has continued to reside at the old town 
house on West Wheeling street. 

James Franklin Taylor was about twelve years 
old when the family moved to Washington, at the 
public schools of which place he received a liberal 
English education. He then entered the prepara- 
tory department of Washington and Jefferson Col 
lege, and continued until the end of the junior 
year, when lie ceased study for a year for recuper- 
ation, intending to return the following year, but 
changed his mind when his old classmates had 
graduated and "one forth. Having decided to 
take up the legal profession, Mr. Taylor, in 1876, 
commenced the study of law in the office of Boyd 
Crumrine, and November 10, 1879, was admitted 
to the bar of the county. He at once opened an 
office in Washington and commenced practice; but 
later returned to Mr. Crumrine's office, where he 
remained until 1883, in which year he was elected 
district attorney, and after serving three years was 
re-elected for another term. There was no opposi 
tion to his nomination, as he was very popular 
with the people, having served with full satisfac- 
tion to his constituents in previous offices. In 
1882 he was chairman of the Republican County 
Committee, prior to which he had served as secre- 
tary of the same; was also assistant burgess of the 
borough of Washington for one term. On Janu- 
ary 1, 1891, our subject entered into the present 
partnership with Winfield Mcllvaine. making a 
strong team in the general practice of law. Mr. 
Taylor's success as a lawyer has been such that he 
has been prominently mentioned for the position 
of judge of the several courts of his native county, 
the position twice filled by his great-grandfather, 
the Hon. Henry Taylor. 

Iu September, 1884, Mr. Taylor married Annie 
Walton, eldest daughter of Rev. Richard L. Mil- 
ler, D. D., pastor of an M. E. Church in Pitts- 
burgh, and of this union have been born three 
children: Alice, Woodward and Virginia, all at 
the parental home on East Maiden street imme- 
diately outside the eastern limits of the borough, 
the house being of brick, comfortable and com- 
modious. 

Mr. Taylor is a director (was one of the 
first directors) of the Citizens National Bank, of 
which he was an original stockholder; and was 
also one of the three serving as a committee on the 
erection of a building for the same bank. While a 
student at college he was a prominent member of 
the Delta Tau Delta Fraternity. 



296 



WASHINGTON COUJS TT. 



QEORGE T. WALKER. As citizens and 
individuals, the American people have an 
insatiable thirst for biographical reading. 
A great man dies, and the people jostle each 
other in the library, hook store and news 
stand to obtain the record of his life. What is the 
secret? Can it be only a vulgar curiosity which 
prompt sua to search the lives of our public men 
or more humble fellow-citizens? While in some 
cases it must be admitted that this is indeed one 
element of the cause, it is not the real motive of 
the mass, or of even a considerable portion of 
biographical readers. Our leading public men 
and more successful citizens have each certain 
characteristics which have contributed lajgely to 
their success, and we, their humble neighbors, 
need the benefit of their example to guide us in 
the common walks of duty. We also need the 
record of lives similar to our own, for we are the 
same that our fathers have been, and by studying 
their biographies, we can avoid their mistakes and 
profit by their wisdom. 

The original Walker family were natives of 
Ireland, the firstof whom to emigrate being one 
George Walker. He was a farmer, and coming to 
America was married, and reared two children — 
Nancy, wife of Zaphaniah Mercer, of Chartiers 
township, this county, and Thomas. The parents 
die I many years ago. Thomas Walker was born 
in 1.822 at Bower Hill, Allegheny Co., Peuu., and 
in early life came with his parents to Washington, 
Penu. He learned the carpenter's trade and fol- 
lowed it for several years in his native city; then 
moved to Pittsburgh, Penn., but soon returned to 
Washington. Iu 1806 he and Mr. Fitzwilliams 
built a planing mill, Mr. Klevis afterward becom- 
ing a partner. Thomas Walker was married, while 
in Pittsburgh, to Elizabeth Wilson (daughter of 
William Wilson), who bore him children as follows: 
William, Annie (wife of George Caldwell, of 
Washington), George T. , Robert, Kate, Roweua 
(Mrs. William Brown, of Washington), Maria 
(living with her brother George T.) and Burns. 
Of these children, William, Robert, Kate ami 
Burns are deceased. The father was a general 
contractor and builder, and in polities aRepub 
licau, serving as a member of the council several 
times, also filling minor offices. He was a mem 
ber of the I. O. O. F. and was always willing to 
aid others. As a contractor, he had the largest 
trade of the city, and erected many of the most 
elegant buildings, among which may be mentioned 
the United Presbyterian Church, the Second 
Presbyterian Church, Hazlett's Bank, Reed's 
Block and several others. In personal appearance 
he was slightly below the medium height, weighing 
240 pounds. He died in 1886, in his sixty-fourth 
year, of heart trouble, having been preceded to the 
''long home" by his wife in 1882. 



George T. Walker was born November 7. 1855, 
in Washington, Washington Co., Penn. , and at- 
tended the public schools until 1870, afterward 
spending two terms at Washington and Jefferson 
College. He then entered a planing mill and 
learned the carpenter's trade, when he was given 
the position of foreman, which he occupied some 
time. In 1878 he went to Texas, but not liking 
that part of the country, returned to Washington. 
In 1885 he formed a partnership under the firm 
name of Walker & Son, which continued until 1NN7, 
when he associated himself with C. M. Slater in 
the general contracting and lumber business. On 
December 25, 1883, George T. Walker married 
Olive B. , daughter of Samuel Fulton, a citizen of 
Washington. In December, 1890, she was called 
from earth, leaving two children, Margaret and 
Thomas. Mr. Walker built the Citizens' National 
Bank, and many private residences in Washington. 
Iu 1884 he erected his present elegant home on 
West Chestnut street, and is at present engaged in 
the construction of the college gymnasium. He 
owns many houses and a considerable amount of 
real estate in and near Washington City, having 
dealt in the real estate business quite extensively. 
He is also interested in the oil business, and is a 
member of the Producers' Association. In politics 
Mr. Walker is an active Republican, having held 
various local offices; for five years he was in Com- 
pany H, Tenth Regiment State Militia, under Col. 
Hawkins, of Beallsville, Washington county. In 
brief, George T. Walker is one of the most pios- 
perous, well-known and popular business men of 
Washington. 



fi DALLAS JACKSON, a typical self-made 

I man, whose trade banner bears the legend — 
ft J '"The hammer in the hand above all the arts 
^^ doth stand" — is a native of Washington 
county, having been born April 13, 1840, in 
Hanover township. James Jackson, his grand 
father, a native of eastern Pennsylvania, came to 
Hanover township at an early day where he died. 
By occupation he was a farmer, in religious faith 
a member of the M. E. Church, and, in politics, a 
Whig. His children were Andrew, John, Noble, 
Perry and James. 

John Jackson, father of the subject of this 
sketch, was born in Hanover township, this county. 
October 5, 1808, his educatiou being received at 
the subscription schools of his district. He was 
reared to agricultural pursuits, which he followed 
all his life with marked success iu his native town 
ship. On March 3. 183(5, Mr. Jackson was married 
to Margaret, daughter of James Matthews, of Lan- 
caster county, Penn., and they then commenced 
married life on the farm adjoining that on which 
he was born. Here he remained some years, when 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



297 



he sold this property and removed into the village 
of Florence, in the same township, where he passed 
the remainder of his life retired from active labor, 
dying March 11, 1853. He was an Old line Whig 
in politics, and a member of the M. E. Church. 
The names of his children are as follows: Martha 
J., Andrew M., John Dallas, Horatio C. and 
Sarah J. 

The subject proper of this biographical memoir 
received a liberal education at the common schools 
of his native township, and at the age of fourteen 
came to Washington, where he entered the employ 
of S. B. & C. Hayes, as an apprentice to the trade 
of carriage builder. With this firm he remained 
some sixteen years, in part as apprentice, in part 
as journeyman, and then moved to Wheeling, W. 
Va. , but after a stay there of fifteen mouths re- 
turned to Washington. In 1S74 he opened his 
present widely. known carriage and wagon shop in 
the borough, where is also carried on a general 
line of blacksmithing, employment being given to 
six hands. Here, by industry, perseverance, thor- 
ough, honest work, judicious economy and close 
attention to business, Mr. Jackson has built up one 
of the most prosperous houses of the kind in the 
county. Ou January 8, 1859, he married Mary 
E. , daughter of Jacob Miller, of Washington, 
Penn., dud the children born to this union are 
James W., Sarah M., Jacob, John, Susan (de- 
ceased), Ella, Wray (deceased), Emma, Daisy and 
Joseph. Our subject is a member of the M. E. 
Church, and in politics is a Democrat, 




RS. ANICA CHAMBERS, a well-known 
and much-esteemed lady of Washington 
borough, is the daughter of Thomas Bar- 
1 low, whose ancestors were among the first 
pioneer settlers of America. 
Henry Preble (the grandfather of Mrs. Cham 
bers) was descended from one of the oldest pioneer 
families, the first of his ancestry to set foot on 
American soil being one Abraham Preble. He 
sailed from England about the year 1636, with the 
"men of Kent," and first located in Plymouth 
county, Mass. Soon after his arrival Abraham 
Preble was married to Juliette, a daughter of Elder 
Nathaniel Tilden. and the young couple moved to 
York, province of Maine, where he died March 30, 
1663. Frances Anica Preble, daughter of Henry 
Preble, was born December 25, 1797, and on July 
28, 1817, was married to Thomas Barlow, who was 
born in 1794 in Connecticut. Five children were 
born to them, namely : Frances Emma, Anica 
(Mrs. Chambers). Harriet, Francis Joel and Fred- 
erick Stephen. The father died in 1859, at Wash- 
ington, Penn. 

Anica (Barlow) Chambers, the subject proper of 
this sketch, was married in the year 1855 to John 



D. Chambers, who was born in 1818, in Washing 
ton, Penn. At the age of thirteen years he entered 
Smith's store as clerk, and afterward became a 
member of the firm of Chambers & Matthews, the 
business being established in the block now occu 
pied by Morgan's dry-goods store. Mr. Matthews 
died, and Mr. Chambers then closed up the busi 
ness, which was very extensive. The children born 
to Mr. and Mrs. John D. Chambers were: Emma 
(Mrs. J. S. Humbird), Anica Barlow, Mary (Mrs 
0. M. Ward), Henry Preble, and Harriet I who 
die.) in 1868). Mr. Chambers died in 1886. He 
was interested in the gas company, being one of 
the early stockholders, and in polities was a Repub 
lican. 



LEMENT M. SLATER, of the firm of 
Walker & Slater, builders, and proprietors 
of a planing mill in the borough of Wash 
ington, is a native of the county, born 
August 9, 1848, in West Alexander. His grand 
father, James Slater, married Catherine Martin. 
and three of their children are David (father of 
Clement M.), Martin (in West Alexander) and 
Mrs McKahan (in Washington, Penn.). James 
Slater, who was a farmer, died in 1859 in West 
Alexander at the age of seventy-one years. 

David Slater was born February 28, 1818, near 
West Alexander. He was educated at the sub- 
script ion schools of his neighborhood, and fol- 
lowed farming pursuits in Washington county till 
the age of twenty-four, when he moved to Ohio 
county, W. Va., where he now resides on his farm. 
In 1S47 he married Miss Elizabeth, daughter of 
Dwight Warren, of New Hamphire, by trade a 
builder of windmills, and who came in 1837 to 
Washington county, where he died at the age of 
seventy years; his wife departed this life some five 
or six years later. Their children were Mrs. 
McKeag and Henry C. , both in Washington; Rose 
Warren, living in West Alexander, and Elizabeth. 
To Mr. and Mrs. David Slater nine children were 
born, as follows: Clement M. ; Rosa; Horace M , 
a carpenter in Oscaloosa, Iowa; William (deceased); 
Warren, living near West Alexander, this county; 
Frank, a farmer at Blue Hill, Neb. ; Augusta, mar- 
ried to James McMurray, a farmer near West 
Alexander; Wendell P., farming ou the homestead, 
and Vernon. living at home. 

Clement M. Slater received a liberal education 
at the common schools of the place of his birth, 
working on his father's farm until he attained the 
age of sixteen years, when he commenced to learn 
carpentering in West Alexander. This trade he 
followed there some three years, and April 7, 1874, 
came to Washington, and for twelve years worked 
for Walker & Klevisas journeyman. On the death 
of both members of this firm, our subject and 



298 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



( reorge Walker (son of the old partner) hougbt ont 
tlif business, and have since carried it on jointly, 
tlieir general line being sawing and planing, house 
building, contracting, etc. 

On January 5, 1 NT I . Mr. Slater was married at 
Constitution, Washington Co., Ohio, to Jennie, 
daughter of Rhoda Mendelhall. This wife died 
November 6, 1876, leaving one child, George W. , ! 
who, on May 4, L890, was run over by a train on 
the B. & O. It. It., from the effects of which he 
died after six hours' suffering, at the age of nearly 
eighteen years. On March 16, 1887, Mr. Slater 
married Miss Minerva Taylor, of Parkersbu'rg, W. 
Va. , daughter of Alexander and Delilah Taylor, 
also natives of that State. No children have been 
born to this union. Mr. Slater is a Republican, 
and has filled various offices of trust with consider- 
able ability. He and his wife are members of the 
First M. E. Church, he for eighteen years, and is 
steward of same. Ho has made his own success in 
life by strict attention to business, economy and 
thrift. When he had finished his apprenticeship, 
all he had to start on was the sum of $2.50, and 
to day he is enjoying a well-merited comfortable 
competence. 

LON M. PORTER, one of the leading and 
most artistic photographers in Washington, 
of which he is a native, was born June 24, 
1858, a son of Hugh and Nancy Porter. 
Hugh was a carpenter by trade, and was married 
in 1855, in Washington county, where they were 
born. In 1863 Mr. Porter enlisted in Company A, 
Twenty second Pennsylvania Cavalry (Ringgold 
Battalion), went Smith with the regiment and died 
there of fever, at a place known as New Creek. 
His widow is still living in Washington. 

Lon M. Porter when a boy attended the Soldiers 
Orphan School, I'uiontown, Penn , for five years, 
and then coming to Washington, learned the 
photographic art in the studio of John H. Rogers, 
later working for J. W. Roth well. In 1S7S he 
went to Pittsburgh, where he improved himself 
yet more in the art, in the far- famed gallery of 
Dalibs, remaining some time, and then proceeded 
to Baltimore, Philadelphia, and New York, making 
an extended trip to the West and South before he 
returned to Washington. This was in April, 1883 
Here for one year and a half lie worked for S. G. 
Rogers, in the same establishment, where he had 
learned the business; then moved to Canonsburg, 
benight a gallery and carried on a profitable busi 
mi'^ there for six years. In the meantime he 
bought Mr. Rogers' studio in Washington, and for 
Mime months conducted both businesses, but since 
August. [891, he has devoted his entire personal 
attention to his widely patronized, thoroughly 
equipped gallery at No. 143 South Main street, in 
Washington 



Mr. Porter is eminently qualified for his busi 
ness, having had excellent training and varied ex 
perience. His work is of the best quality, and his 
patrons are among the first families of Washing- 
ton and vicinity. Politically, he is a Republican, 
socially, a member of the Masonic Lodge and 
Chapter and a member of the Royal Arcanum. 
Em several years he was a member of the National 
Guards, belonging to the First Regiment of Phila- 
delphia. His father died June 20, 1865, aged 
thirty five, the mother is still living, aged fifty -five, 
while but one sister, Mrs. Andrew Brady, is living, 
her residence being at Cornwall, Penn. One 
brother who died April 4, 1892, lived in Allegheny 
City. 



DR. SIMON SCHNIDER STROUSS. The 
| first recorded history of the Strouss family 
' in the United States was enacted in North 
ampton county, Penn. David Strouss and 
wife came over from Leipsic, Germany, about the 
year 1750. Of this date we are not quite certain, 
but there is conclusive evidence that they sailed 
about the middle of the eighteenth century. 

David Strouss was a musician and also some- 
uh t of a tighter. He was chorister in the German 
Lutheran Church, and took up arms with his 
adopted fellow countrymen in the war of the Rev- 
olution. That he was a soldier worthy of the 
name, we know from the fact that he was made 
colonel under Washington. After the war he 
settled down to quiet farm life in Northampton 
county. His son, John Strouss, moved to Al 
legheny county, Penn., in 1806. He was a mill 
wright by trade, but as he grew older, country life 
and bucolic charms increased in attractiveness to 
him, and he started West for his fortune. He 
pitched his family tent on a little creek in Al 
legheny county, about twenty miles northwest of 
Pittsburgh, now the junction of Allegheny, Beaver 
and Washington counties. Here he spent the re- 
mainder of his days. When asked by his children 
later in life, why he did not settle nearer the con- 
tinence of the two rivers, he would reply: " I could 
see no great advantages then. Pittsburgh was only 
a few houses near an old fort. One cart load of 
produce would supply its daily demand, and if we 
shipped down the river we were obliged to walk 
back or row up stream, which was slower and 
harder work than walking." So he concluded to 
go farther into the country and establish a little 
kingdom of his own. We can look back and say: 
" What a mistake he made." But, perhaps - , our 
conclusion would be too hasty. Viewed from a 
financial point of view, doubtless it was a mistake; 
but when we consider the fact that the thread of 
life has been spun to an unusual length to almost 
all the descendants of this line, we may credit it 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



301 



to pure air, sanitary living, and muscle-making 
necessities of this pioneer farmer. 

John Strouss married Mary Schnip, September 
10, 1795, and there were born to them four sons 
and five daughters: Lydia, Elizabeth, Jonas, John, 
David, Mary, Simon S., Hannah and Martha. 
Mary Strouss died in 1815, and John was married, 
the second time, to Annie McCoy. There were 
born to him of this marriage three sons: William. 
James and Henry. Of these seven sons, Dr. Simon 
S- Strouss (whose likeness appears with this sketch) 
was the youngest of the first marriage. From this 
brief history of ancestry we can form an idea of 
the limited pleasures, and opportunities for any- 
thing else than farm work, that fell to him in liis 
youth. The paterfamilias and his wife and twelve 
children all believed and practiced strict economy, 
and the daily catechism of hard work, relieved on 
Sundays by the austere principles and rigorous oh 
servance of "Blue-Stocking" Presbyterianism, 
which creed, slightly modified, lias been adhered 
to by nearly all this large family. 

Dr. Strouss was born in Allegheny county, Peuu., 
Wednesday, January 10, 1810. His educational 
advantages were necessarily quite limited. Even 
public schools were unthonght of in his neighbor 

1 d, and he was obliged to search a few of not 

the best books and pamphlets for his little store of 
general knowledge. Finally, to his great delight, 
a Latin school was stalled in Hopewell church, 
near his father's farm, and he, having expressed a 
preference for the medical profession, was per 
mitted to, study this dry language in all its orig 
inal dryness, for a few mouths. Thus equipped, 
as to his mental outfit, he came to Washington 
county and read medicine with Dr. Jonathan Leth- 
erman, who at that time had an office near Canons 
burg. On a faded sheet of old fashioned letter 
paper we find the following: " To all whom it may 
concern: This is to certify that Simon Strouss has 
attentively and diligently studied the science of 
medicine, including anatomy, surgery, midwifery, 
and therapeutics, and I can further stale that his 
moral character is unimpeachable. February 20, 
1831. Jonathan Letherman, M. D." This was 
his diploma, and now he starts out in the world, 
fully equipped, as Dr. Strouss. He first went to 
Pittsburgh, and practiced about one year with Dr. 
Wray, of that city. In 1832 and 1833 he prac- 
ticed in Beaver couuty, located in what is now 
Independence (then Hopewell) township. He 
left there in the fall of 1833 and established an 
office in Amity, Amwell township, Washington Co., 
Penn. It was there that a long and useful life 
was spent, in service to his fellow-men. He was 
eminently successful in every sense of the word. 
Beloved by his clients and respected by all with 
whom he came in contact. Compared with pres- 
ent customs, his remuneration for service was 



small; yet his practice became so extensive that lie 
accumulated a comfortable fortune. With this he 
was liberal to the end of his days. The unfortu 
nate always found a sympathizing helper, and of 
his church he was a strong moral and financial 
supporter. 

Dr. Strouss first married, August 12, 1836, Jane 
F. Dodd, who was the oldest in the family of nine 
children of Rev. Cephas Dodd, viz.: Jane F.; 
Sarah; Thaddeus, M D. ; Cornelia; Elizabeth; 
Hannah; James F. ; Cephas, M. D. ; and Elias F.. 
M. D. Their father was the son of Rev. Thaddeus 
Dodd, the founder and first pastor of Upper and 
Lower Ten-Mile Churches. Washington county: 
Rev. Dodd commenced his labor there in 1777. 
and later in his work was one of the principal 
actors in the establishing of what is now Washing 
ton and Jefferson College. Mrs. Strouss died 
Thursday. August 13, 18(53. There were born of 
this marriage two sons and five daughters. Dr. 
Strouss was married, the second time, March 12, 
lsf'iS. to Mrs. Anne Conger (nee Anne Day). 
There were no children of this marriage. Of the 
seven children we record the following: Hanna D., 
born September 20, 1S.17, .lied September 29, 
1S43; Mary Jane, born March 26, 1839; Cephas 
D.. born January 1, 1841, died September 26, 
1843; Martha Elizabeth, born November 19, 1843; 
John D., still-born; Sarah Ann. born March 13, 
1846; Ruth D.,born June 11, 1848, died October 
3, 1858. Of these, Mary Jane married William 
C. Condit. July 8. 1858; Martha Elizabeth mar- 
ried Demas McCollum, December 4, 1863; Sarah 
Ann married David B. Baker, March 2, 1865. 
These three daughters settled on farms given them 
by their father, and are still living in Washington 
county. Dr. Strouss died Tuesday, April 24, 
1883, and his wife on Wednesday, May 16, 1883. 
Thus within three weeks this beloved old man and 
his worthy wife passed away, breaking the Strouss 
line in this branch of the family as no sons were 
left to carry the name. 

The life of Dr. Strouss was one of undeniable 
consistency, and in his old age there was allotted 
to him the esteem and regard that true worth 
justly merits. He was jovial, kind hearted and 
earnest. Always willing to sacrifice personal com 
fort and consideration for a suffering patient. He 
early acquired a practice that extended to a radius 
of twelve or fifteen miles from his office. There 
was considerable of a German element in his 
looality, and they still reverence the memory of 
Dr. Strouss. His pills and drops were a panacea 
for all their ailments. Many of them affirm that 
even his jolly presence was enough to put one be- 
yond the notice of suffering. Although he never 
read psychology, yet he understood the influence 
of mind over matter, and the power of the will. 
He had the true secret of the practitioner. This 



302 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



was best eviuced iu bis treatment of fevers, in 
wbicb be was eminently successful; often being 
called as council, especially in such eases to other 
localities. He was an earnest, active follower of 
the Master, always at bis place with heart and 
purse in the Presbyterian Church of Lower Ten- 
Mile. He did bis life work well, and has left us 
a noble example of an upright, useful and honor 
able life. 

As a rule, Dr. Strouss never speculated or tam- 
pered with the vagaries of fortune. Once he was 
tempted by the Western sheep craze, and ventured 
some capital; but finding himself losing, be with- 
drew, and devoted himself more exclusively to his 
chosen profession. He has gone to his reward, 
and to us, his descendants, there is left a sacred 
memory and Christian example. May we strive 
toward true merit as he did, and preserve the 
mantle be has left to us, with his benediction, un- 
sullied from dishonor's pollution. For the name 
and honor is ours to carry before the searching 
eyes of an exacting world. This feeble tribute we 
offer as a token of our undying gratitude, love and 
esteem. 

| This sketch is from the pen of 8. S. B, 



THE McCRACKEN FAMILY. The natives of 
the Highlands of Scotland have, the world 
over, a reputation second to none for robust- 
ness, bravery, honesty and loyalty, and the 
McCrackeus in this county, with proper 
pride, claim descent from such nobility of the his- 
toric soil of " Caledonia, stern and wild.'' 

Many years ago, during religious persecutions 
in Scotland, a portion, if not all, of the clan Mc- 
Crackeii left their heather clad hills for the North 
of Ireland, where, with many more of their self- 
exiled countrymen, they built: up a new home in 
which they were free to worship according to their 
own old Presb3'teriau customs, without let or 
hindrance. From this place emigrated to America, 
in 1793, Andrew McCracken, following in the wake 
of his brother David who had preceded him to the 
shores of Columbia by some years. In Ireland 
Andrew was a flax dresser, but in this country he 
followed farming. The brother had made a settle- 
ment in Amwell township, and thither Andrew also 
made his way, where he passed the remainder of 
his days, tilling the soil and making a permanent 
home for his posterity; he died iu 1837, at the age 
of soventy-seven, while on a visit to Athens, Ohio. 
He had married, in Ireland, Nancy Jamison, who 
departed to the "other shore" in 1835, when 
seventy-three years of age. They were the par- 
ents of six children — two sons and four daughters 
— who reached maturity, but none of whom are 
now living. Of these, Archibald was the father of 



M. L. A. McCracken, the subject proper of this 
memoir; John went to Athens, Ohio, thence to Lee 
county, Iowa, where at the age of eighty-three he 
died (his sons are living on the Pacific slope). 

Archibald McCracken, in 1823, married Lurena, 
daughter of Luther Axtell, a farmer, who came to 
Washington county from New Jersey in an early 
day, in which State he had married a Miss Dodd, 
aud their four sons and six daughters all 
grew to maturity, of whom one son is a minister in 
the Cumberland Presbyterian Church at Pittsburgh ; 
one daughter, Rachel, is at present living in Wash 
ington county, unmarried; another daughter, 
Nancy, married Silas Clarke, and is now deceased. 
The parents of these children both died in Wash- 
ington county, the father about 1870, the mother 
some time later. The Axtell family are descended 
from Col. Axtell who commanded a regiment of 
Cromwell's guards, was present at the trial and 
execution of Charles I, and was himself beheaded 
not loug afterward, about the time of the Restor 
ation. A full account of the trial and execution of 
Col. Axtell is found in '•Cobbett's State Trials." 

After marriage Mr. and Mrs. Archibald Mc- 
Cracken took up their residence at the old home- 
stead of his ancestry, in Amwell township, where 
they passed the remainder of their days. The 
mother was called from earth in 1858 at the age 
of fifty- four years, the father died in 1885 aged 
eighty-seven years. Ten children were born to 
this honored couple, as follows: Phcebe, wife of 
Jehu lams, in West Virginia; Elizabeth, married 
to William Watson, of Amwell township; Mary, 
wife of Samuel Smith, of Franklin township; 
Sarah, wife of Stephen B. Miller, of Amwell town- 
ship; Chloe, Rachel and Martha Jane, all deceased 
in young girlhood; Andrew J., a farmer in Rus- 
sell county, Kans. ; Martin Luther A., special 
mention of whom will be presently made; and 
Jonas O, on the home farm. 

Martin L. A. McCracken was born in Amwell 
township, Washington Co., Peun. , his rudimentary 
education being received at tlie subscription schools 
of the neighborhood, afterward improved by an 
attendance at the free schools of the county, but 
he was fourteen years old before he could read. 
He remained at home until twenty-one years of 
age, and then, having nurtured a desire to become 
a lawyer, he resolved that the ambition of his 
young life should be fulfilled. Leaving the pater- 
nal rooftree, he worked about on various farms, 
teaching school in winters five years, and then 
attended Pleasant Valley Academy for a time, and 
Waynesburg College one session. In 1860 he 
went South, and was a teacher at Mayslick Acad 
emy, Ky., when the Civil war broke out — produc- 
ing an excitement in the State that caused the 
academy, as well as other institutions of learning, 



WASHING TON COUNTY. 



303 



to be temporarily closed up. Returning to Wash- 
ington, Mr. McCracken enlisted for three years in 
Company K, Eighth Pennsylvania Reserve Regi 
merit, or Thirty seventh Regiment P. V. I., which 
was attached to the army of the Potomac, and he 
served fifteen days over the term of his enlistment, 
during nine of which he saw heavy fighting in the 
wilderness. He participated in battles including 
over thirty days' heavy fighting, besides numerous 
skirmishes and minor engagements, and was four 
times wounded, though not any time seriously, 
unless we exeept the shooting off of the little finger 
of his right hand. His army record is as follows: 
Enlisted May 9, 1801; promoted to corporal then 
lo sergeant, and as such was mustered out with 
company May 24, 1864. After his discharge Mr. 
McCracken returned to Washington county, read 
law in the office of the late John L. Gow, Sr. , in 
Washington, Penn., and was admitted to the bar of 
his native county in 1867, since when he has been 
engaged with well-merited success in the practice 
of his chosen profession. He was partner with J. 
A. Mcllvaine from 1874 until the latter' s appoint- 
ment to a judgeship; then was partner with M. H. 
Stephenson, one year; then practiced alone, until 
February 1, 1892, since when he and J. Q. Mc- 
Giffin have been partners under the firm name of 
McCracken & McGiffin. 

In 1862, while absent from his regiment on re- 
cruiting service several mouths, Mr. McCracken 
was married to Martha M., daughter of John 
Adams, who came from Ireland to Amwell town- 
ship in 1818, and died in South Strabaue township 
in 1873; two of his sons, William and James, now 
reside in Washington, where they follow carpen- 
try. To Mr. and Mrs. McCracken have been born 
eight children, of whom five are now living, all at 
home with their parents, viz. : Minnie L, Bertram 
E. , Edna L. , William A. and Martha Jane. Mr. 
"McCracken is a typical self-made man, a living 
example of what patient purpose, indomitable per- 
severance and hard study can accomplish. During 
the early years of his manhood, from November 1 to 
May 1, following year, he was accustomed to rise 
at 3 o'clock in themoruing and study till daylight, 
which became the nucleus to his education. Po- 
litically he is a Republican; from 1866 to 1869 he 
served as recorder, and he has filled various town- 
ship and borough offices. Socially he is a member 
of the F. & A. M. The original farm where his 
grandfather settled, in Amwell and Franklin town- 
ships, is now owned by him. Mr. McCracken has 
in his possession an old English musket, bearing 
the date 1763, which his great-grandfather Axtell 
carried throughout the Revolutionary war; he was 
at Valley Forge with Washington, and the musket 
was one of those used in making a litter on which 
Gen. Mercer was carried off the field wounded. 



Fl( NDREW W. KERR, one of the most sue 
1/ 1\ cessful and well-to-do agriculturists of 
fr^\ Washington county, is of immediate En- 
Jl glish descent. His father, William A. 

Kerr, born in 1816, a sou of Andrew, was 
a native of England, as were all his antecedents. 
When he was yet a child, his parents brought him 
to this country, making a settlement in Washing- 
ton county, Penn., where they passed the rest, of 
their days. They were the parents of the follow- 
ing named children: Margaret, who died at the 
age of five days; Agnes, deceased wife of William 
Smiley; Hannah, who died at the age of eleven 
months; Mary, married to Robert Caldwell of 
Hopewell township, both deceased (she died after 
him in 1877, at the age of sixty-eight years); and 
William A. , father of the subject of these lines. 
The father of this family died May 28, 1823, at 
the age of forty-five years; his wife, Margaret, 
survived him till April 20, 1865, when she, too, de- 
parted to the " Better Laud " at the age of eighty- 
two years. 

William A. Kerr received his education at Frank- 
fort Academy, Washington county, Penn., and 
taught school for several years in Hopewell town 
ship. On July 4, 1844, he married Miss Margaret 
Tweed, a native of Washington county, Penn., 
born June 20, 1815, of a very early family of the 
county. After marriage they located on a rented 
farm in Hopewell township until 1854, when they 
bought a farm in Buffalo township, on which they 
lived until 1872, in which year they sold it and 
bought another in the same township, where Will- 
iam A. Kerr died January 16, 1887, at the age of 
seventy years, and which farm is at this time in the 
possession of the subject of this sketch. The 
widowed mother is now living in Buffalo village. 
They were the parents of three children, viz.: 
Elizabeth Caroline, widow of John G. Farrer (she 
is now assistant matron at the County Home; Mr. 
Farrer volunteered in Company K, Fifteenth 
Pennsylvania Cavalry, in the summer of 1862. and 
served until the close of the war); Mary Margaret, 
married to H. W. Leech, of Buffalo village, and 
Andrew W. William A. Kerr was a stanch Repub- 
lican, and held various township offices. During 
the invasion of Pennsylvania in the Civil war he 
enlisted for State protection. 

Andrew W. Kerr was born August 5, 1849. in 
Hopewell township, Washington Co., Penn., and 
received his education at the schools of the neigh- 
borhood of his new home in Buffalo townshij), 
whither the family had moved in 1854. Here he 
was reared to farm life, and lived over thirty years. 
On December 16, 1874, Mr. Kerr married Miss 
Alma V. Giles, whose father (at that time deceased) 
was of Pittsburgh, Penn. , and whose mother has 
since departed this life. Four children have been 



304 



ii [SHINGTOb CO\ A I) 



born to Mi and Mrs. Kerr, viz.: Annie Margaret, 
William Albert, Florence Estella and James Wiley. 
In 1SS7 tin- family moved into the borough of 
\\ ashington, Mr. Kerr having built an elegant and 
oommodious residence on Prospect avenue. At 
present he i- a partner in a flouring mill in that 
place. Our subject and wife are members of the 
I P. Church at Washington, ami in politics he is 
.1 Republican. 



JIOSEPH M DICKSON, who, though yet a 
young man. lias brought himself, by ability 
I and acumen, into the front rank of the legal 
circle of Washington, was born in Buffalo 
township October 16, 1856. Ho is a son of James 
Diokson, a aative of Maryland, who. about the 
year L839, came to Washington county, where he 
Boon after married Miss Mary E., daughter of 
Klislia 'Puvall. Her father was a blacksmith by 
trade, and worked in his shop Dear Washington, 
until his doath. at the patriarchal age of ninety 
one years. The Duval! family came at an early 
date to this county from Wellsbnrg, Va. After 
their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Dickson remove. 1 to 
the northern part of the county, settling on a farm 
in Robinson township, where they now reside. To 
them eight children were born: Eliza, wife of D. 
C. Reed, in Cross Creek township; William, at 
New Concord, Ohio; Salem, in Jefferson township; 
Joseph M. . an attorney in Washington; Mary, wife 
of George Wolf, in Robinson township; Alice anil 

Agnes, both deceased, ami I. J., engaged in the 

hardware business at Washington, Pennsylvania. 
Joseph M. Dickson was reared on his father's 
farm, and received a liberal education tit the com 
mon Schools of the district. Later he attended the 

Jefferson Academy at Canonsburg ami the Normal 
School at Sewiokley, in Allegheny county, after 
which he engaged in teaching in the common 
schools of this county. He then entered the Wash 
ington and Loo University at Lexington, Va., 
where he graduated in the classical course in June, 
1880, and he at once commenced the study of law 
at the same university, graduating therefrom with 
the law class of 1881. Coming to Washington 
county, lie was admitted to the bar in 1883. Mr. 
Dickson is a stanch Democrat, being one of the 
active young workers in that party. For four 
years he served as secretary of the Democratic 
committee, and in 1884 was nominated for county 
prothonotary, but. his party being in the minority, 
he was. not unexpectedly, defeated, yet he had the 
'action of polling the largest Democratic vote 
cast in the county up to that time. It was the 
year of the Presidential election, when James G 
Blaine, a native of the county, was heading the op 
position ticket Mr. Dickson worked with untir 
ing zeal, oanvassing closely the entire county, and 



receiving many compliments from friends for the 
masterly fight he had made against certain defeat. 
Be takes an absorbing interest in all national and 
local politics, lie is a member of the [mproved 
Order of Beptasophs, and of the school board of 
\\ ashingtou borough. 



JAMES W MoDOWELL is a great-grandson 
of Thomas McDowell, who, in 1 , ST, came 
from his native county. Lancaster, Penii., to 
this county, where he bought a tract of wild 
land in Mt Pleasant township, ami hewed out 
a home for himself and family. He died in 1 798. 
He married Janet Clark, and by her had children. 
of whom James, grandfather of our subject, was 
born in Lancaster county, came with his lather in 
1787, and married Mary MoKnight, daughter of a 

pioneer. The children born to them were -I. lines, 
of Mt. Pleasant township; John, of whom mention 
is made further on; Jane, wife of Alexander Me 
Elroy, of Mt. Pleasant township; Eleanor, mar 

ried to John Xesbit, of Chartier- township, 'lid Ke 
becoa, wile of William Smith, of Mt. Pleasant 
township, all deceased. The parents of this fam 
ily both died on the farm in Mt. Plea-ant town 
ship, the father in IS'JT at the age of sixty se\en 
years, the mother September 9, L850, when about 

eighty two years of age. They were members of 
the Union Church. 

John McDowell was bom in Mt. Pleasant town 
ship. Like his forefather.-, he was a practical 
agriculturist. In May, 1839, lie was married to 
Margaret, daughter of Jacob Miller, of Chartiei- 
township, and the following eight children were 
born to them: Mary .1 .me. who died young; Jtuues 
W . our subject; Jacob p.. on the home farm; 
Margaret, wife of J. M. K. Donaldson, of Mt 
Pleasant township; Rebecca, wife of James Agnew. 
of same township; John, in business at Canon- 
burg; Sarah and Elizabeth, both living on the 
home farm The mother died February 20, 1866, 
aged fifty -i\ year-, the father August IS 1886, at 
the age of seventy five. He had lived all his life 
on the old farm. Politically he was a straight 
Democrat, and for some time served a- school 
director; in religion he was a consistent member 
of Mt. Prospeot Presbyterian Church. 

James W. McDowell was born on the family 
homestead in Mt. Pleasant township. January 29, 
1842, receive. 1 a liberal primary education, and at 
tended Jefferson College at Canonsburg. from 
which he graduated in 1866. He then commenced 
the study of law at Washington under Hon. Will- 
iam Montgomery In August, 1869, he was ad 
mitted to the bar, and for two years thereafter he 
wrote in ti law office at Pittsburgh, Penn., whence 
he returned to Washington, where he has since 
been successfully engaged in general practice. On 



WASHINGTON COl ■ / I 






September 28, 1869, Mr McDowell was married 
to Mis- Nancy J., daughter of Joseph V Bea, of 
\H Plea ;ini township. Three children have been 
born to them: Bea jraduate of Dull 

College ol Pittsburgh, and John is atten ling 
college Tbeir firsl born, a daughter, died al the 

ol thirteen. Mr and Mrs McDowe] 
members of the Firsl Pn d Church, of 

which In- is a deacon and trustee Politically a 
lifelong Democrat, he bias served his borough and 
county in several offices of trust, and is al pr< 
member of i be <at , com a Knight 

Templar, and D. D '. M of the F & A M 



T/EOBGE W. HAYS, member of the well 
known firm of George W. Hays .V ' 
dealers in hardware, etc Washington, was 
born in Butler county, Penn., in 18! 
After securing a lair education at the 
ichools of his native place, he commenced, when 
nineteen years of age, to learn the tinning trade 
in Pittsburgh, and for some time aftei the expira 
lion of In- apprenticeship he carried on a general 
tinning business in Armstrong, Penn. Thence he 
moved to Freeport. 

Here he followed the same line ol business until 
1882, when he moved to Milleretown, same Si 
and there, foi fold general hardware, 

oil well Supplies, agricultural implements, etc Ii 
' be came to Washington and purchased the 
tore owned by T \ Burkollow, where he now 
carries on Hh- leading business in general hard 
wan-, bouse furnishing goods, etc. Mr. Bays 
married Miss Anna M daughter of D. S. McCol 
lough, ol Butler county, Penn . March 2, ' 
Six children have been born to them, name!} 
David Charles, Bussell Valentine, Mabel I 
Laura Amanda, Mar;. Aileen ami Anna Margaret. 
Mr. Hay- may justlj be classified among the self 
made men of the day, as his success in life is en 
tirelj due to bis own unaided exertions, and be 
ranks high among the prosperous and respected 
businessmen ol Washington borough. Politically, 
be is a Bepublican; socially, a member of the E 
A. U., and, like Mrs. Hays, is a member of the 
Second Presbyterian Church, of Washington. Mr. 
Hay's father, John Valentine Hays, came, with 
lu's parents, from Germany, when nine yeai 
age. In 1843 the youth had grown to manhood 
and married Margaret Qpperman, who was horn at 
Pittsburgh. 'J'" this marriage six sons and one 
daughter were born, of whom G. W. Hays is the 
liflli in order of birth. 



also a native of Amwell township, and by occupa- 
tion a farmer, married in 1849 Miss Sidney Horn, 

Lghter of .John Horn, of Amwell township 

Mr. and .Mrs. Swart resided in that township until 
the breaking oul of the war of the Bebellion, when 
he enlisted in Companj D, One Hundred and I i 
tietb P. V I lervingfrom 1861 until May, 1864, 
when he was shot dead in the battle of the Wilder 
the bullel passing through his brain. Shortly 
before this event, and while Mr. Swart was visit 
ing his home, on furlough, bis house was burned, 
a melancholy verification of the adage thai 
"troubles seldom come singly." The family then 
moved to Washington, and some time later Mrs 
Swart was married to G. W. Moninger, of Amwell 
township, where she now resides, again a widow. 
By her firsl marriage she had five children, viz.: 
John H (deceased), Josephine (wife of William 
I. Lindley, of Morris township), Mina (Mrs. A. 
S. Burns, residing in Washington), Warren (in 
Iowa; and E P. Swart. Bj her second marriage 
she became the mother of two children: Gran! and 
Frank I Moninger, both residents of Amwell 
township. 

E. P. Swart, the subject of this sketch, 
r< and and educated in his native town-hip, and in 
1881 be wenl to Iowa, where In- learned the pho- 
iphic art, which lineof business he has since 
followed with eminent success. In 1889 be re 
I to Washington, and aboul a vear later es 
tablished himself in his present businesss, whieh 
enjoys a large and increasing patronage. In 1883 
Mr Swart was married to Miss Belle A. Be< ; 
member of one of the prominenl families of Mich 
In February, 1889, she died, leaving three 
children Mamie, Edgai A. and Ruth, the lattei 
of whom died al the ageof ten months. Politic- 
ally Mr. Swart is a Bepublican, and while a resj 
dent of Iowa he held various township ofl 
Socially be i- a member of the I. O. 0. I'.. the 
Jr. O V \ M and the I . O, H and National 
Union. 



Penn 



P SWART, one of the leading photogra 
phers and thoroughly enterprising citizens 
ol the borough of Washington, was horn 
in Amwell township, Washington Co., 
July 31, 1861. His father. Anion Swart, 



J SHAN MABGEBUM, the well known and 
popular dealer in boots and ghoes in Wash 
ington, was born June Tl, ISMS, at Washing 
Penn., a son of John and Eliza J. 
(Smith) Margerum, both natives of Ram-as 
ter county, Penn., the former born about tin- vear 

John Margerum, the grandfather of our subject, 
was of Scotch Irish extraction, and was a butcher 
bj trade; be died in eastern Pennsylvania in 1825. 
II wife lived to a very advanced age. and died at 
home of hei son John, in Washington. They 
had nine children, of whom but one, Robert, is liv- 
ing, anl he resides in Washington county, now far 

advanced in \ ears 



306 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



John Margerura, the father of J. Shan, worked 
at the shoemaker's trade, in Washington, for fifty - 
seven years. He was blessed with an exceedingly 
robust constitution, and was never sick a single day 
in his life. He was called from earth in July, 1891, 
at the age of eighty three years, strong both 
physically and mentally to the end, and at the time 
of his death was the oldest resident shoemaker in 
Washington. His wife had preceded him to the 
grave in 1889, at the age of seventy-five years. 
He was married in 1833 to Eliza J. Smith, daugh- 
ter of John and Honor Smith, and to them four 
teen children were born, of whom six are now liv- 
ing, viz.: J. Shan, Julia Ann (wife of Charles 
Wendle), John L., Eliza J., now of Wheeling, W. 
Va. (wife of Julius Clark), William and Marietta 
(now Mrs. Zelt) all residents of Washington, this 
county, except Mrs. Wendle, whose home is at 
Pittsburgh, Perm., and Mrs. Julius Clark. 

J. Shan Margerum received his education at the 
schools of his native town, and learned the trade 
of shoemaker with his father, for whom he worked. 
In August, 1862, he enlisted in the IndependentPat- 
ton Cavalry, of the Ringgold Battalion, which after- 
ward became Company F, of the 22d Cavalry, and 
was appointed brevet lieutenant, which position he 
held until the rank was abolished. He served as 
company artificer, and participated in most of the 
forty six battles and minor engagements of his 
regiment, was twice wounded, though not seriously, 
and twice fell into the hands of the enemy, but suc- 
ceeded in effecting his escape to the Union lines, 
each time; on the first occasion he was captured 
near Martinsburg, Md., byMaj. Gilmore's cavalry, 
hut made his escape to a garden, and hid in a 
ditch two days before he dared to venture out. In 
1891 he revisited the scene of his adventure, and 
although the town had grown considerably, he 
found the ditch and a stone fence about just as he 
saw them thirty years ago. After serving to the 
close of the struggle, the war-worn soldier returned 
home to the pursuits of peace, and resumed the 
business he had commenced in 18(51, and which he 
has since continued in. About fifteen years ago 
he opened a retail business on North Main street, 
where he now lives. In February, 1870, he mar- 
ried Miss Lou A. , daughter of Matthew and Ann 
Griffin, of Washington, Penn., both of whom were 
early settlers of Washington, but are now deceased. 
Mr. and Mrs. Margerum have no children. He is 
a Democrat in politics, as have been all the family 
on both sides of the house, and is a member of the 
G. A. R. He is a sportsman in the literal sense 
of the word, and owns a kennel of some of 
the best-bred dogs in the State. Just after the 
war Mr. Margerum commenced collecting curiosi- 
ties, and has now one of the most valuable collec- 
tions in the county. Among the articles of vertu 
s the lirst "greenback" issued by the Govern 



ment, now valued at $1,0(10. His interesting 
museum is open to the public, who are always 
welcomed and courteously treated. 




OBERT BIDDLE PATTERSON. This 
prominent business man represents one of 
the oldest families of Washington county. 
His grandfather, John Patterson, was born 
of Irish parents in eastern Pennsylvania, 
and came to Washington county when a boy. He 
was reared and educated in this county, where he 
grew to manhood, was married, and reared a family 
of fourteen children. In politics he was a member 
of the Democratic party, and in religion was con 
nected with the Presbyterian Church. 

James Patterson, his father, was born and reared 
in Washington county, and attended the public 
schools of Nottingham township, where he mar 
ried Ann McVay, of Union township, a daughter 
of Thomas McVay. To them were !>orn the follow 
ing children: Thomas, John, Mary Jane, Hannah 
Z., Robert B., J. Kerr, S. R.. William C, and 
Annie. They resided in Nottingham township for 
twenty years after their marriage, where he fol 
lowed farming and stock raising; moved in ISCi'J 
to Westmoreland county, Penn.; resided there for 
six years; then went to Greenslmrg, where he 
lived in retirement. He was an active member of, 
and for many years an elder in, the Mingo Presby- 
terian Church. In political opinion he was a 
stanch supporter of Democratic principles. 

Robert B. Patterson was born November 1(5, 
1845, in Nottingham township, attended the com- 
mon schools and after moving, with his parents, to 
Westmoreland county, attended the schools there, 
and also the academy at Salem. He learned the 
tanner's trade, which he followed but a short time, 
and afterward taught school four or five years. At 
the expiration of that time he opened a general 
store at Greensburg, Penn. In 18S0 he moved 
to Monongahela, where he purchased a grocery 
store of George Scott, and conducted that business 
until 1892. There he was married to Miss Agnes 
Painter, August 30, 1881. Mrs. Agnes Patterson's 
father's name was G. W. Painter; her mother's. 
Mar} 7 A. Painter; her grandfathers', Tobias Painter 
and Christian Weaver, all of Westmoreland county, 
Penn. In 1892 he became interested in the Gra- 
ham Foundry Company, and is now taking an 
active part, in that enterprise. Mr. Patterson pos 
sesses the characteristic spirit of energy which has 
pervaded all who bear the family name, and has 
been the architect of his own success. Politically, 
he is an ardent worker in the Democratic party, 
and in religion is a member of the Presbyterian 
Church of Monongahela. The children of this 
family are: Robert J., Mary W., Edgar M., Cath 
erine E. and Kenneth McVay. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



so- 




li BRAHAM L. ASHBROOK. This gentle- 
1\ man claims descent from Simon Ashbrook, 
4\ a soldier iq the German army, one hundred 
* and twenty years ago, who left the Father 
land for America at the time of the Revo- 
lutionary war. In this country he was employed, 
during that struggle, in drilling recruits for the 
American service. His death occurred in Lancas- 
ter county, Penn., where one of his sons, also 
named Simon, was born. This son, Simon, about 
the year 1778, when he was in the neighborhood 
of twenty-one years old, came to Washington coun- 
ty and purchased land in Buffalo township, where 
he passed the remainderof his days, dying in L849 
at the age of eighty-two years. He had married 
Mary Fennell, who departed this life in Washing- 
ton county in 1856, at the age of eighty-eight 
\ isiis. They were members of the Baptist Church. 
Absalom Baird Ashbrook, son of Simon and 
Mary (Fennell) Ashbrook, was born June 3, 1808, 
and was reared on his father's farm. He mar- 
ried Miss Elizabeth Braddock, of Franklin town 
ship, this county, a daughter of John Braddock, 
and after marriage they made their home in Buf 
falo township up to 1884, when they came to the 
borough of Washington, here to pass their d eel in 
ing years. They were the parents of the following 
named children: Mary, wife of Robert Lytle, of 
East Fiidey township; Simon F. , in Buffalo town- 
ship; John, who died at the age of seven years; 
William, died when twelve years old; Abraham L., 
subject of this sketch; William A. and John B. , 
both deceased; Sarah Margaret, wife of W. P. 
Hastings, of Washington, Penn., and Solomon 
Luther, deceased (a dentist who practiced in Buf- 
falo township). The mother of this family died at 
the home of her sou, Abraham L., in 1886, at the 
age of seventy- four years. 

Abraham L. Ashbrook, of whom this sketch 
chiefly relates, was born March 31, 1847, in Buf- 
falo township, Washington Co., Penn., and received 
his education at the common schools of the dis- 
trict. In his youth he commenced the study of 
dentistry, which he supplemented with a course of 
study at the Dental College, Baltimore, Md., dur- 
ing the sessions of 1885-86, from which he gradu- 
ated in the latter year. He then came to Wash 
ington, where he has since remained in active 
practice, a prominent and popular leader in the 
profession. In 1871 Dr. Ashbrook was married to 
Miss Mary E. Stewart, of Buffalo township, daugh- 
ter of John Stewart, and one son was born to them, 
named John Stewart, now living with his father. 
Politically the Doctor is a Democrat; socially he is 
a member of the Royal Arcanum, and in religion 
is an adherent of the Second Presbyterian Church. 
The Ashbrook family have, as a rule, been long- 
lived; Margaret (Howell) died when ninety- eight 
years old; John, when eighty-four; Solomon, when 



ninety-three; Nancy Huston, when ninety one; 
William, when eighty-five — all brothers and sisters 
of Absalom B. Ashbrook. father of Dr. Abraham 
L Ashbrook. 



QEORGE H. REYNOLDS. The family, of 
which this gentleman is an honored mem 
In r. is well known and highly respected in 
South Strabane township, and the name has 
been an honored one from the time of the 
settlement of the family on American soil. 

About the year 1676 James Reynolds, in com- 
pany with a brother, emigrated from England to 
the New World, and settled near Shippensburg, 
Cumberland Co., Penn., where the old landmarks 
of that noted family still remain. One son of this 
pioneer, also named James, was a famous Indian 
tighter in his day. He had a family of six sons 
and four daughters, and at the commencement of 
the Revolution live of these sons enlisted in the 
patriot army, serving all through the war under 
Gen. Washington. One son, Benedict, who was 
born near Shippensburg, served in Capt. Potter's 
company, and was at the battle of Bunker Hill, re- 
maining with Washington all through the many 
trials and privations until the close of the war. A 
few years after the conclusion of peace he married 
Elizabeth Harmon, and a year later took up his 
residence, along with four of his brothers, near 
Baltimore, in Anne Arundel county, Md. In 1785, 
in the early spring, he and his wife, two small 
children (the eldest but three years old) and one of 
his brothers, set out from Maryland with all their 
goods and chattels, including four horses and a 
cart, to cross the Allegha'ny mountains into west 
ern Pennsylvania. When they reached where now 
stands the town of Cumberland, near the old fort 
built by Gen. Washington, one of the horses died, 
so they had to abandon the cart and carry their 
household effects on the other horses, in pack-sad- 
dles. Thus they continued their journey over the 
mountains, frequently meeting with snow block- 
ades and Indians, until they reached where is now 
Hopwood, in Fayette county. Here they met one 
of Mr. Reynolds' old friends, and together they all 
pushed forward into Washington county, landing 
in Amwell township, near what was called Mount 
Nebo, a landmark now obliterated. One year 
later Mr. Reynolds purchased from the Darby es- 
tate the farm on which he permanently settled and 
passed the remainder of his days. With the ex- 
ception of his three horses he had no property 
whatever, but by energy and perseverance he suc- 
ceeded in securing a home, which he worked and 
cleared up, paying for same in rye and corn, as 
there was but little or no money in circulation at 
that time, and soon he became comfortably settled. 
He reared a family of nine children in a log cabin 



308 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



having but one room 16x20 feet, afterward build- 
ing an addition. As there were no school-houses 
in those days in that region, he used a part of his 
cabin for school purposes, and here his son Zach- 
ariah, then but sixteen years old, taught subscrip- 
tion school, receiving from each scholar as a fee 
for one term's tuition (about three months) a 
bushel of rye. Seven of the nine children born to 
this brave old pioneer were Henry, Zacliari;ih, 
Mary, Susan, Lloyd, Benedict and Sarah, all now 
passed away, Sarah dying in 1885, the last of the 
nine. Mr. Reynolds was generous and kind-heart- 
ed to a fault, ever willing and liberal in helping im 
migrants to make a start in his neighborhood, and 
he was always anxious to see the community in a 
prosperous condition. As a citizen he was honored, 
and, being an old soldier, was readily recognized 
as a friend among veteran comrades he might 
chance to meet; indeed, he would rather recount 
reminiscences of the Revolutionary war to his 
friends than talk on any other subject. He would 
never accept office, but was always looked to for 
advice in matters requiring judgment and care. 
At the advanced age of ninety-one years he passed 
from earth, a lifelong Democrat. [Written by 
his grandson, Col. George H. Reynolds.] 

Henry, the eldest son of Benedict Reynolds, 
lived in a house that was put up by a man named 
Kirk, one of the earliest settlers in the county. 
It was built of brick in 1800, one of the first of the 
kind in the county, and is still standing. Henry 
Reynolds' family, born and reared in this house, 
were Isaiah, Joseph, Sarah, Elizabeth, Beliudit, 
Emily, Rebecca, Margaret and Benedict. 

Major Zachariafa Reynolds, second son of Bene- 
dict the pioneer, was born in Anne Arundel county, 
Md., and was about two years old when the family 
crossed the Alleghanies. He was reared in South 
St ra bane township, and was self-educated. At 
the early age of sixteen he commenced teaching 
school, a vocation he followed for forty years, the 
school-houses and their furnishings during a por- 
tion of that time being of the most primitive de- 
scription. The floors and seats were made of 
puncheons, the windows of greased paper, and a 
log was made into a bench, while a plank fastened 
against the wall with wooden pins served as a 
writing desk. At the age of eighteen, during the 
days when all the men .between the ages of 
eighteen and forty-five were enrolled in the militia, 
he was chosen captain of his district, and was 
called out to muster and drill at least three or four 
times every year. Finally he rose to the rank of 
major, his commission being signed by the gov- 
ernor of Pennsylvania, in the year 1810 or 1812, 
and was held in reserve in the war of 1812-15. 
During that period Major Reynolds, being a self- 
made man, roused the admiration of the citizens 
of Washington county, and as a consequence was 



elected to many positions of trust. He was a fine 
penman as well as an active business man, and in 
1836 was appointed county treasurer, which office 
he tilled for two terms of three years each, after 
which he served as prothonotary in 183'J. Mr. 
Reynolds was twice married: first to Mary, daugh- 
ter of Moses Little, of South Strabane township, 
but she died a little over a year after her marriage, 
leaving one child, David L., now residing on the 
farm then owned by his grandfather. Mr. Rey- 
nolds, for his second wife, was united in marriage 
with Mary lianey Huston, whose father, Joseph 
Huston, settled on and owned part of the site 
where the borough of Washington now stands. 
After this marriage Mr. Reynolds retired into pri- 
vate life on the farm in South Strabane township, 
and there passed the remainder of his heretofore 
busy life, dying November 8, 1865. He was a 
Democrat in politics, and liberal in church mat- 
ters. The children by his second wife were named 
George H. Mary E. and Seth H. 

George H. Reynolds, eldest son of Maj. Zacha 
i iah and Mary (Raney) Huston Reynolds, was born 
in Washington, Penn., in 1840, was educated in 
the common schools, and reared to agricultural 
pursuits on the home farm in South Strabane 
township. During the war of the Rebellion he en- 
listed in Company F, Twenty second P. V. C, 
known as the Ringgold Battalion, and served until 
the close of the struggle. He served in the army 
of West Virginia, and participated in many of the 
battles and engagements in which his battalion 
was concerned. On April 1, 1869, he married 
Rachel Austin, a native of Bellaire, Ohio, daugh- 
ter of James Austin and granddaughter of Gen. 
Charles De Hass. The children born to this union 
are Frank S. De Hass, Eva Maud, Blanche, 
Bird ell a, Lizzie Artemesia and Georgia Pearl. 
Col. Reynolds is a Democrat in his political pref- 
erences, following, in this, in the footsteps of his 
forefathers. He has been engaged in various occu- 
pations, and at the present time is general mana- 
ger for the Electric Belt Co., of Washington, Penn- 
sylvania. 




OBERT W. IRWIN, one of the most elo- 
') quent pleaders at the liar of Washington 
county, is a sou of Ephraim and Margaret 
(Richey) Irwin, the former of whom was a 
native of the county. The grandparents 
on both sides removed to this county from the 
North of Ireland early in the present century. 
The children bom to Ephraim and Margaret Irwin 
were: Elizabeth, married to W. J. Meloy; Esther 
A., married to Jonas Mills; William R. ; J. B. ; 
R. W. and Sadie M., and one son who died in 
infancy 

Our subject was born April 25, 1858, in West 





( ( 



WASHINGTON COUNT! 



311 



Finley township, this county, and his early life was 
passed alternately in working on the farm and in 
attending the common schools of his district. 

When he was sixteen years of age the family 
moved to Buffalo, same county, where they re- 
mained two years; then spent one year in Cross 
Creek, when, in 1877, they moved to Hopewell 
township, where the parents now live. In the fall 
of 1875 Mr. Irwin commenced to teach school in 
Washington county, a vocation he followed six 
winters, his summers being occupied in improving 
himself at the Normal Schools of Claysville and 
Alexander. In November, 1877, he registered 
with Boyd Crumrine, Esq., as a student of law, 
previous to which he had studied Latin with Rev. 
Walkenshaw, one summer. On June 15, 1881, he 
was admitted to the bar of Washington county, 
and he has since practiced his profession in Wash 
ington with more than average success. In court, 
when pleading a case or addressing a jury, he is 
the "observed of all observers," so forcible, clear 
and impressive is his eloquence, each argument or 
point being delivered with a grace and ease that 
invariably commands the attention of his hearers 
For this gift Mr. Irwin modestly admits that he is 
indebted to his connection in earlier life with de 
bating societies in the country, at the time he was 
teaching school. 

On December 24, 1884, Mr. Irwin was married 
to Miss Carrie N., daughter of William Fowler, of 
Westmoreland county, and niece of William Smith, 
of Smithville, in Somerset township, this county. 
When she was but a young girl, her mother was 
called from earth. To Mr. and Mrs. Irwin have 
been born four children: Nellie May, now (1S'.)'_!) 
six years old; Earl Wilson, who died at the age of 
eight months; Ray Wilson, who died at the age 
of one year, and Frances Margaret, aged one year. 
Politically Mr. Irwin is a Democrat, and has been 
a hard worker in the interests of his party. In 
1883 he was a candidate for the office of district 
attorney, but the county being strongly Republican, 
he was defeated. For four years he has served as 
president of the school board. On the retirement 
of Judge Acheson from law practice, at his request 
the present firm of Acheson & Irwin was formed. 
Mr. Irwin is an elder in the Third Presbyterian 
Church, of the Sunday-school of which he has 
been superintendent for some time. His residence 
is No. 85 Highland avenue. 



AMUEL P. FERGUS, the well-known ex- 
tensive oil operator, is a native of the county, 
having been born in South Strabane town- 
ship August 17, 1843. 
He is of Scotch descent, the first of the family 
to come to this country being Johu Fergus, great 
grandfather of our subject, who was married in 



Scotland and emigrated with his family to America, 
settling in Huntingdon county, Penn., where he 
died. His family consisted of three sons — Thomas, 
Johu and Samuel. Of these Samuel married Mary 
Paxton, and had the following named children: 
Hugh, Mary (Mrs. Andrew Hart), Margaret (Mrs. 
Thomas Maxwell), John, Martha, Thomas, Sarah 
(Mrs. Hugh Fergus), Jane and Nancy. The 
father of these died April 14, 18.53, aged ninety 
years, and the mother on February 18, 1861, aged 
ninety-three years. Their son, Thomas, was born 
November 2, 1802, on the old homestead taken upby 
his father in South Strabane township, this county. 
On May 3, 1831, he was married to Elizabeth, 
daughter of John D. Roberts, of that township, 
and the children born to them were John D. , Mary, 
Susan (deceased), Hannah J., Maria, Isabella, 
Samuel P. (subject), Addison II and Sarah M. 
After marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Fergus 
took up their residence on Mr. Roberts' farm, 
where they remained seven years, and then came 
to their present residence in South Strabane town- 
ship. 

Samuel P. Fergus, whose name opens this coin- 
memorative sketch, was educated in the schools of 
his township, continuing on the home farm until 
the fall of 1861, when he entered Washington Col 
lege, remaining there one year. He then enlisted 
in Company C, One Hundred and Fortieth P. V. 
I., in which he was. some time later, promoted to 
corporal, serving as such until the fall of 1864, 
when he was transferred to the Twenty seventh U. 
S. Colored Infantry with rank of second lieutenant. 
being afterward promoted to first lieutenant. He 
served on the Potomac, and participated in the 
battles of Chaucellorsville and Gettysburg, in 
which latter engagement he was shot through the 
right hip with a bullet, which necessitated a twelve 
months confinement in hospital. His wound hav- 
ing healed, he returned to his command, and he 
was in the front of Petersburg, then at the siege 
of Richmond, until 1864, when he took part in the 
engagements at Fort Fisher, Fort Anderson, Wil- 
mington, North East Station, and in many skir 
mishes; was in pursuit of Gen. Johnson up to the 
time of the latter' s surrender. Throughout his 
service he was in the army of the Potomac, for 
some time under Gen. Terry, and toward the last 
with Gen. Sherman. After the disbandment of 
the army, his regiment was ordered to Wilming- 
ton, Del., where it lay ten months, he being a 
member of the court martial held there. The 
regiment was mustered out at Columbus, Ohio, and 
our subject returned and resumed farming in 
South Strabane township. In the fall of 1874 he 
was elected, on the Republican ticket, treasurer of 
Washington county for one term of three years. 
Since the beginning of 1878 he has been engaged 
in the oil business. Oil was found in South Stra- 



312 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



bane township, where an uncle of his had lived, 
and he has been operating some wells there, be- 
sides several in other States. In 1888-89 he 
erected his beautiful residence on East Beau street, 
in the borough, generally conceded to be the finest 
in the place. On December 17, 1873, Mr. Fergus 
u.i united in marriage with Miss Mary, daughter 
of William Patterson, of Indiana county, Penn.,but 
who died in April, 1876, her babe having been 
taken from her by the Grim Reaper the day pre 
vious. For his second wife, Mr. Fergus married, 
October 9, 1878. Miss Margaret L., daughter of 
Thomas Weir, of Somerset township, this county, 
and bj this union there have been born children 
as follows: Thomas H. W. , Hugh Earnest and 
Margaret. Josephine, all three living at home, and 
John Addison and David S. L., both deceased. 
Mi. Fergus has been a member of the TJ. P. 
Church since 187(1, and he is an elder in the same. 
Politically he is a stanch Republican. 



GYRUS MORROW. Some writer has said 
that the most prominent characteristics of 
the Scotch-Irish are stern integrity, high 
sense of duty, hatred of tyranny, the de- 
fense of liberty and the love of God. Of such 
a grand old race is the subject of this memoir 
descended, William Morrow, his great-grandfather, 
the first of the family to come to America, having 
been born in the North of Ireland, where he mar- 
ried a native of the same locality. Here some of I 
their children were born, and in an early day the 
family immigrated to the shores of Columbia, 
making their way westward to Washington county, 
1'iMiii.. where they found a settlement near Hills 
borough, in West Bethlehem township. 

George Morrow, grandfather of Cyrus, was born 
in the North of Ireland, and came to the United 
States with the family. His earlier life was passed 
in Bethlehem township, his later days in Donegal 
township, this county, he having settled on a farm 
on Dutch fork of Buffalo creek, about one mile 
above where it empties into Big Buffalo creek. 
Here he successfully followed farming during the 
rest of his pioneer life. In West Bethlehem town- 
ship he had married Hester Poole, who bore him 
children, as follows: David, Abraham, Noah. 
Thomas, Elizabeth, Matilda and Mary, all of whom 
attained adult age, except Thomas, who died young, 
and three of them are yet living, viz. : Matilda (mar- 
ried to Milton Lamborn, of Washington, D. C. ), 
and David and Noah (both residents of Licking 
count v, Ohio). Some time after his marriage 
George Morrow brought his parents from West 
Bethlehem to his farm in Donegal, where they 
peacefully ended their days. 

Abraham Morrow, father of Cyrus, was born in 
L816, in West Bethlehem township, this county, 



where he was reared to farm life, his education 
being secured at the subscription schools of the 
locality of his birth. About 1841 he married Jane 
De France, a native of Washington county, born on 
Raccoon creek, June 19, 1821, a daughter of Allison 
De France, and to this union were born seven chil- 
dren, as follows: Cyrus; Salem and Parmelia Ann 
(both living with their widowed mother); Ellen, 
deceased at the age of twelve years; a son that 
died in infancy; Perry, living with his mother, 
and Albert, a farmer in Donegal township. After 
marriage Abraham Morrow resided for some years 
in the last named township, near Atchison post 
office, then moved to Licking county, Ohio, near 
Kirkersville, whence, after a residence of a few 
years, he returned to his native county and finally 
settled on the home farm. Here, on February 12, 
1888, he passed from earth, and here his widow, 
now aged seventy-one years, is calmly awaiting the 
final summons. Abraham Morrow during his life- 
time was one of the best known men of his town 
ship. As a citizen he was public-spirited, and in- 
terested in the advancement and welfare of the 
community. Quiet and unassuming in his way, 
kind and charitable in disposition, an exemplary 
Christian, he won universal respect and esteem. 
He was an earnest and consistent member of the 
Christian (or Disciple) Church. In Licking county. 
Ohio, there was no organized congregation of this 
church, and be, with a few others, became the 
founder of one; he was chosen elder, and later he, 
in company with a few others, at a considerable 
personal sacrifice built a meeting house. After his 
return from Ohio, he was an elder in the church 
here until his death. He was also instrumental in 
the erection of the Dutch Fork church and par- 
sonage. 

Cyrus Morrow was born February 3, 1844, in 
Donegal township, this county, near the present 
postofh'ce of Atchison, and here, under his father's 
careful tuition, he learned the art of husbandry, 
and received a very fair common-school education. 
On August 26, 1S74, he was married to Elizabeth 
Coiidit, a native of Amwell township, this county, 
born July 1, 1853, a daughter of Cephas and Mary 
(Bane) Condit, of that township. This union has 
been blessed with seven children, all yet living 
under the parental roof, their names being Minnie 
E., Franklin S.. Gartield B. , Albert G., Earle, 
Ethel and Elizabeth J. After marriage Mr. Mor 
row remained on a farm near Atchison postoffice, 
in Donegal township, until 1880, in which year he 
purchased the George W. Guy farm, situated on 
the Dutch fork of Buffalo creek, a short distance 
from where it empties into Big Buffalo creek. 
Mr. Morrow is not only a general farmer on a 
large scale, but also one of the most extensive wool 
growers in his township. As the eldest of a family 
of boys who work together, he has had the care 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



313 



and responsibility of some large deals, and by his 
business sagacity, excellent judgment and well 
known ability as -a financier has been instrumental 
in keeping the family estate in a highly creditable 
shape. Despite the financial crisis c if 1857 which 
crippled so many, including Mr. Morrow's father, 
they succeeded by strenuous efforts in pulling 
through, and placing their affairs once more on a 
solid foundation. To-day the ''Morrow boys," as 
they are' familiarly known, have few equals in the 
county for industry, economy, honesty and public- 
spiritedness. In his political predilections our 
subject is a stanch Republican, influential in the 
party, and has rilled various offices in his township 
« ith eminent ability. 



/ 



THOMAS FLEMING BIRCH, one of the 

leading attorneys of Washington, whose 
practice is for the most part in the civil 
courts of the county, is a native of (Jl a \ sville, 
Washington Co., Penn., born May IS. L856. 
His father, John Birch, was one of the enterpris 
ing men of Claysville. 

Our subject received a thorough English educa- 
tion at the common schools of his native borough, 
which was supplemented with a course of study at 
Washington and Jefferson College. He began the 
study of law in the office of Alexander Wilson, 
and in 1880 was admitted to the bar of Washing 
Ion county. For three years he was in the prac 
tice at Washington and in l<S8o\ formed a partner 
ship with Mr. Albert S. Sprowls, under (he linn 
name of Birch & Sprowls, which continued until 
L888, when it was dissolved, since when Mr. Birch 
has again been practicing alone. Mr. Bircb is an 
married. In politics he is a stanch Democrat; 
socially he is a Knight Templar. 



rX^HE BRADY FAMILY are numbered with 
the earliest pioneers of Washington county, 
one John Brady having settled in this 
II county about the beginning of the present 
v century. He became prominently associated 
with the political history of the county, and died 
after a useful life, leaving no family. He was a 
distant relative of Capt. John Brady, of Revolu- 
tionary fame, who was a native of New Jersey, and 
died soon after the war, leaving several children, 
of whom are named: Freeman; Moses, an attorney, 
in Canada, where he inherited an estate from his 
father; Andrew, an M. E. minister, deceased in 
Livingston county, N. Y. ; William, deceased in 
Virginia, and Jane, deceased wife of William 
Gourley, of Livingston county, N. Y. 

Freeman Brady was but four years of age when 
his father died, and his mother (who was afterward 
married to a Mr. Welch) died in 1840, in Living- 



ston county, N. Y . lie fore the death of his 
mother, Freeman Brady went to live in Centre 
county, Penn., with his uncle. George Brown, of 
whom he learned the trade of mason. In 1M6 he 
left the home of his uncle, and coming to Wash 
ington county took contracts for building the Na- 
tional pike, also serving in the capacity of super- 
intendent for John H. [Swing. In 1820 Freeman 
Brady was united in marriage with Mary, daughter 
of Benjamin and Martha Means. Her father was 
a native of New Jersey, and settled about 1796 in 
South Strabane township, Washington county, 
where he died in lSIti; his widow passed away in 
1859, at the age of over ninety years. They 
reared a family of ten children, all now deceased. 
To the union of Freeman and Mary (Means) Brady 
children were born as follows: Sophia, wife of 
James Simmons, in Washington, Penn. ; John, also 
living in Washington ; Andrew, deceased in lN7o; 
Freeman, deceased; Martha, deceased in 1845; 
Samuel, a resident of Washington (a sketch of 
whom follows); James, also living in Washington; 
David, deceased, and Benjamin, who was killed 
on the streets of Washington, during a war riot. 
The father was actively identified with the Demo- 
cratic party, and served in various local offices; by 
President Buchanan he was made postmaster at 
Washington; he was a Freemason. In 1840 he 
erected the court house and old stone jail of Wash- 
ington county, and also put up many other prom- 
inent buildings. He died in 1N70. his wife in 
1ST."), having passed away at the age of eighty five 
years. Both were members of the Presbyterian 
Church. 

John Brady, son of Freeman and Mary (Means) 
Brady, was born November '20, I S2 I , on the home 
farm in North Strabane township, Washington 
Co., Penn. He learned of his father the trade of 
mason, which he followed over fifty years, and has 
worked on many of the public buildings of his na 
tive county. He laid the foundation of the court- 
house of Washington county, and also assisted 
with the brick work In 1856 John Brady married 
Esther, daughter of James Thompson, of Canons- 
burg, and she died one year after their marriage, 
leaving one son, John, who is now a railroad man. 
In 1863 Mr. Brady was married to Sarah, daugh- 
ter of Timothy Ross, a native of West Bethlehem 
township, this county, and their children were 
Hetty, wife of Samuel Traster. of Washington; 
Mattie, married to James S. Williams, also of 
Washington, and Alexander, living at home. The 
mother died in 1867; the father is now living on 
the home place, which is cared for by his daughter 
Hetty. In politics he is identified with the Dem- 
ocratic party, and has been a member of the I. O. 
O. F. He attends the Presbyterian Church. 

Freeman Brady (deceased), third son of Freeman 
and Mary (Means) Brady, was born September 20, 



314 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1827. in Washington, Penn. After attending the 
subscription schools he took a course at Washing- 
ton College (where he was a member of the Phi 
Gramma Delta Fraternity), graduating in 1851. He 
then became one of the first telegraph operators of 
Washington. Penn., and in 1855 served as deputy 
sheriff. In 1856 ho was united in marriage with 
Mary E. , daughter of Samuel Donley, and sister 
to the late Mrs. James Brady. They began mar- 
ried life on West Wheeling street, aud in 1857 he 
was elected recorded of deeds, occupying that 
position three years; he served several terms as 
chairman of the Democratic County Committee. 
In the meantime he devoted his leisure time to 
the study of law under tin- guidance of John L. 
Grow. In the May term of 1860 he was admitted 
to the bar, and formed a partnership with Hon. 
George S. Hart, which continued until 1876. when 
Judge Hart was elected to the bench. After that 
event Mr. Brady achieved an enviable reputation 
as an able lawyer, conducting a large and lucrative 
business. He was made by his party a candidate 
for State senator at a special election, but as the 
party was largely in the minority he was defeated. 
In 1867 Mr. Brady united with the Second Pres- 
byterian Church of Washington; his wife was a 
member of the First Church before her marriage. 
He was never absent from services when it was 
possible to be present, and he filled the offices of 
deacon and elder in the congregation. He died 
May 14, 1891, and one hundred and four carriages 
followed his remains to the grave. Resolutions 
were passed by his associates of the legal profes- 
sion, who mourned the loss of a brilliant lawyer, a 
Christian man and a true friend. He left a widow, 
and five children, named as follows: James; 
Charles, employed at Caldwell's place of business; 
Freeman, working in Smith's establishment; Robert, 
in a jewelry store; and Lydia. living at home. 
Since the death of her husband Mrs. Brady and 
her children have continued to reside in the old 
home, situated on South Main street in Washington. 
James Brady, the seventh child of Freeman and 
Mary (Means) Brady, was born January 31, 1833, 
in Washington, Penn., where his boyhood was 
passed. He attended the common schools of his 
native town, and learned the trade of mason, 
which he has since successfully followed, having 
assisted in tin- erection of many of the public 
buildings of the county. In 1860 he married 
Julia A. Donley, daughter of Samuel aud Eliza 
(Rettig) Donley, of Washington, the former of 
whom was lost in an explosion on the lower Missis- 
sippi, while returning from the Southwest, whither 
he had gone on a lookout excursion. After their 
marriage Mr. and Mrs. Brady made their home 
continuously in Washington, and here, on January 
5, 1889, she passed from earth at the age o'f fifty- 
six years. Mr Brady - has been a lifelong Demo- 



crat, and under Grover Cleveland he was ap- 
pointed, October 7, 1886, postmaster at Washing 
ton, which office he acceptably filled three years 
and six months; he was the first Democratic post- 
master to follow his father, who was appointed to 
that position in 1S61. He is a member (as was 
also his wife) of the Presbyterian Church, and he 
now attends the Second Presbyterian. Five chil- 
dren were born to this couple, of whom the follow- 
ing is a brief record: (1) George V. was born De- 
cember 11, 1861, and was married to Tillie Miller; 
he is one of the leading jewelers of Washington, 
Penn. 

(2) Edgar L. Brady was born in 1866, and his 
education was received at the common schools. 
Entering the office of the Review and Examiner, 
in Washington, he served his time at and mastered 
the printer's trade. He then for a time worked 
on the Commercial Gazette, from which office he 
went to the Burgettstown (Penn.) Call. Upon his 
father becoming postmaster of Washington he re- 
turned to his native town to till the position of as- 
sistant postmaster, and has since been connected 
with the office, as head clerk since the appointment 
of the Republican postmaster. Underwood. In 
1SS7 he was married to Miss Mellie Perrine, daugh- 
ter of John Perrine, member of an old and promi- 
nent family of Cross Creek township. To this 
union two children have been born: Edgar and 
Ray Grayson. (3) Leda D. is caring for her 
father's home. (4) William H. is at home. (5) 
Richard D. is a butcher, of Washington, who in 
1890 married Miss Lydia Uhler, of Washington 
county. James Brady, the father of this family, 
has been a strong, robust man all his days, and 
still has good health. The home wherein he now 
resides, No. 66 West Wheeling street, has been the 
home of this branch of the family since Mr. and 
Mrs. Brady were married. 

Samuel Brady, sixth child of Freeman Brady, 
Sr., was born in 1830, in Washington, Penn. He 
learned the trade of saddletree maker, when such 
work was all done by hand, and constituted an ex- 
tensive business in early times; this business he 
followed several years. He is now carrying on a 
general store in Washington. Mr. Brady was 
twice married, first time to Sarah Rankin, who 
died, leaving three children, viz. : William, Harry 
and Elizabeth, all living in Washington. Mi. 
Brady's second wife was Deborah Lopp, of near 
Brownsville, this county, by which union there are 
no children. 

B. MOORHEAD. one of the most sue 
cessful business men of Cecil township, 
was born November 18, 1825, on the farm 
— ' in Cecil township, which is yet his 
home. 
He is a grandson of Samuel Moorhead, who 




WASHINGTON COUNTY 



317 



whb born in 1745, iu Scotland, and when about 
twenty one years of age left his native laud for a 
home in America. He tirst located iu eastern 
Pennsylvania, coining to Cecil township, Washing- 
ton county, in 1775. In the following year he 
was married to Elizabeth Sproul, a native of east 
ern Pennsylvania, and a sister of Sarah Sproul, 
who married James McBride, grandfather of John 
B. McBride, whose biographical record appears 
elsewhere. After their marriage the young peo- 
ple located on the timber covered farm in Cecil 
township (now occupied by the W. P. Rend Coal 
Co.), where at night they, in connection with other 
settlers of the neighborhood, were obliged to re- 
sort to blockhouses, in dread of the Indians. They 
tinally removed to the farm located where the 
subject of this sketch now lives. Here they erected 
a one-story cabin, built of round logs with the bark 
on. In this rude but happy home six sons — 
John, James, Francis, David, William and Hubert — 
and one daughter — Elizabeth — were born, all of 
whom moved to Ohio with the exception of John. 
The father took an active part in the Whiskey In- 
surrection, and other questions of the day. Samuel 
Moorhead was one of a number of neighbors who 
went turn about over the mountains from eastern 
Pennsylvania, to carry salt iu sacks on horseback, 
riding one horse and leading two, and carrying as 
much salt in one trip as would last the company 
one year, and he was a prominent actor in the many 
scenes of danger so common to frontiersmen. Hie 
mother-in law, Mrs. Sproul, lived to the advanced 
age of one hundred and four years. He passed a way 
in 1805, and his widow when she was niuety-two. 
John Moorhead, father of subject, was born in 
1785, on the home farm in Cecil township, where 
he grew to manhood, receiving a subscription- 
school education. In 1810 he was united in mar- 
riage with Sarah, daughter of John Buchanan, a 
native of Scotland, who settled in Robinson town- 
ship, this county, and five children were born to 
this union: Samuel (tirst settled in Washington 
county, then moved to Beaver county, Penn . 
where he died iu 1890), John (deceased iu 188(5 in 
this county), Eliza Jane (deceased at the age of 
twenty-one years), W. B. (whose sketch follows), 
and George B. (deceased at the age of twenty - 
one years). The mother of this family died in 
1828, and in 1837 John Moorhead was united 
in marriage with Priscilla, daughter of John 
Aiken, a pioneer settler, and she bore him two 
children: Isabelle and Sarah (both deceased 
in youth). Mr. Moorhead was an ardent Aboli- 
tionist, taking an active part in politics, and serv- 
ing his township as justice for many years. He 
and his wife were members of the Associate Re- 
formed Church at Robinson's Run, later uniting 
with the U. P. Church at Venice. He died in 
1861, and his widow was afterward married to 



David McKee.of Mt. Pleasant township, this coun- 
ty. She died in 1871. 

W. B. Moorhead was reared on the home farm 
in Cecil township, receiving his elementary edu 
cation at the schools of the neighborhood, which 
was supplemented with a partial collegiate course 
of study in Muskingum College, New Concord, 
Ohio. On February 9, 1871, he was married to 
Margaret Johnston, who was born on the farm in 
Robinson township, which afterward became the 
site of McDonald village. Her father, Thomas 

Johnston, was born in Chester) nty, l'euu., and 

in early life was married to Susan Scott, a native 
of County Donegal, Ireland, who came here in an 
early day. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. 
Johnston settled on the home farm in Robinson 
township, where the mother died iu 1847, and in 
1809 the father was also laid to rest. Mr. and 
Mrs. Moorhead have resided on the home farm, 
containing 200 acres in Cecil township, which is 
included in the oil belt. He has made many im- 
provements, erected a good house and barn, and 
is operating seven oil wells, two more being now 
under way. Mr. Moorhead is an active business 
man. and has settled many estates. In politics he 
cast his first vote for the abolition of slavery, gtv 
ing his assistance to the " Underground Railroad " 
for the purpose of shipping fugitives to Canada; 
he has since united with the Republican party, 
and has served his township as justice of the peace 
and in various other ways. Iu religious faith he 
and his wife are members of the U. P. Church at 
McDonald. The children of this well known and 
influential couple are as follows: RosenaE. and 
Melicent Scott, attending the academy at McDon 
aid, and Tolbert Buchanan and Romulus Johnston, 
living at home. 

Mr. Moorhead is noted for his sympathy for 
people in distress, or the unfortunate from any 
cause. He is much famed for his success in com 
promising troubles between neighbors, and carry- 
ing people through when in straitened circum- 
stances; for securing the liberation of people who 
may have been put in jail for trivial offenses, to await 
their trial. Another feature of his sympathy for the 
unfortunate is his attending sheriff sales, buying 
in property and turning it over to its original 
owner, and giving him his own time to pay for 
same. Such acts of kindness and generosity have 
endeared Mr. Moorhead to the community, espe- 
cially to the poor, who look upon him a&of a verity 
" a friend in need." 




NDREW J. FORD, a representative self- 
made, prosperous citizen of the borough of 
Washington, now living retired, is a native 
of Pennsylvania, born December 23, 1828, 
in Mouut Pleasant. Westmoreland county 
Andrew Ford, father of our subject, was of 



318 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Irish extraction on his father's side, of Scotch 
descent on his mother's, and was, it is believed, a 
native of New Jersey. He was left an orphan at 
an early age. and coming soon thereafter from 
Mt. Pleasant to Washington, this county, he 
learned the trade of wagon maker. He married 
Miss Martha, daughter of John Lennox, a shoe- 
maker by trade, who had come to Washington 
county over ;i century ago, where he died. An- 
drew Ford returned with his young wife to Mount 
Pleasant, where they remained some six years, and 
then once more came to Washington, the subject 
of this sketch being at the time not three years 
old. Here the father worked at his trade for 
many years with "old John Morrow." He died 
in 1873, at the age of seventy-four years, a life 
long Democrat. His widow is yet living in Wash- 
ington, at the patriarchal age of ninety three 
years. Eleven children were born to them, ten of 
whom were the following: Sarah, widow of 
Samuel Eckles, in Washington, Penn. ; David, de 
ceased; Martha, deceased wife of C. C. Turner, 
in Washington county; Mrs. Margaret Lennox 
(widow), living in Washington: Andrew J.; Sid- 
ney; John, in Monongahela. this county; Mrs. 
Emily Wheatley (widow); Mrs. Ann Eliza Boggs, 
and Mrs. Mary Ellen Hutchinson. 

Andrew J. Ford, whose name opens this sketch, 
received his education at the common schools of 
Washington, and early in life entered the arena 
of business. Of his father he learned the trade 
of wagon maker, which he followed for some time, 
and then commenced that of brickmaking with one 
Bushfield, in the meantime working at gunsmith- 
ing during the winter months. For thirty five 
years he carried on a brick yard in Washington, 
supplying the brick for many of the principal 
buildings in the borough. In 1874 he formed a 
partnership with G. W. Moninger, in the lumber 
trade, which continued thirteen years, when it was 
dissolved, our subject carrying on the business 
alone; but in 18S8 he sold it to Pollock & Baker, 
and retired. In 1X80 he built his present dwell- 
ing house on West Chestnut street. 

On March 20, 1851. Mr. Ford married Miss 
Sarah Maekey, only child of Joseph and Ann 
Maekey; the' father died when Mrs. Ford was a 
child, and the mother passed away at the home of 
our subject, in 1890, at the age of eighty-seven 
years. Mr. and Mrs. Ford have no children of 
their own. but several years ago they adopted a 
little girl, who, in their home, grew to womanhood, 
ami then, marrying, left it; she died in 1876, 
leaving two children, a boy and a girl, who were 
taken care of by Mr. and Mis. Ford. The boy, 
Andrew Ford McConhew, was taken from them by 
the hand of the Reaper on October 9. 1888. when 
almost fifteen years of age; his sister, Annie, is 
now living with our subject and wife. Mr. and 



Mrs. Ford are adherents of the First Methodist 
Protestant Church of Washington, of which he 
has been a member for thirty years, and is at pres- 
ent a trustee. In politics he is a Democrat, has 
held town offices, and has been member of the 
council several times. Mr. Ford owns a fine 
farm in Amwell township, comprising 100 acres, 
all under cultivation. 



G 



/pfrHARLES ALEXANDER SCOTT, M. D., 
was born April 12. 1866. in Monongahela. 
Penn. His paternal great great great- 
grandfather was William Scott, who came 
from the North of Ireland and landed with 
his family in America, September 6, 1790. He 
settled uear Dunningsville. Washington county, 
soon after, in the same year. 

Thomas Scott, son of William, was twenty-two 
years old when the family landed in America, and 
came with his parents to Washington county. On 
March 10, 1802, Thomas Scott married, in same 
county. Miss Margaret Turner: he had settled in 
1800 on Mingo creek, in what is now Carroll town- 
ship. They were members of the Presbyterian 
Church. Thomas Scott was a man of sterling 
principle, one who enjoyed the confidence of all 
who knew him. He was educated in Ireland, and 
was better informed than most of the farmers of 
his neighborhood. He owned two mills, both on 
Mingo creek, and the second mill building is at 
present owned and used, by the Harrison Brothers 
as a distillery. Mr. Scott built and owned the 
brick house, now the property of Mark Borland, 
on Main street. Monongahela. where he resided 
during the latter part of his life. He died Feb 
ruary 24, 1850. Margaret, his wife, on December 
24. 1849. They had a numerous family, their 
names and dates of birth being as follows: Re- 
becca. February 1, 1803: William. March 10, 1804; 
Joseph, January 14, 1800: Alexander. November 
29, 1807; Moses, October 12. 1809; Mercy, Octo- 
ber 15. 1811; John. August 22, 1813; James. 
April 15, 1815; Matilda, March 8, 1817; Eliza 
beth, January 22, 1819. and Jane, January 2, 
1821. Of these. Alexander, born in what is now 
Carroll township, this county, was married July 
31. 1827. to Miss Sarah Clause, of Washington 
county, Penn.. and thev had twelve children, viz.: 
Melinda, bom March L9. 1829, died October 7, 1835; 
Arabella, born January 8, 1831, wife of Isaac 
Keeney; Benjamin F. . born September 24, 1832; 
Patterson, born March 2. 1834. living in Ohio; 
Moses T., born December 13. 1835. residing in 
Cleveland, Ohio; Mary E.. born December 3, 
1837, married to Thomas Kemp, and residing at 
Ironton. Ohio; Thomas O., born December 5, 1839, 
residing in Monongahela (he enlisted in Company 



WASHINGTON <<>IXT) 



319 



K, Sixty-second Regiment P. V. I., served tbree 
years, re-enlisted, and served until the close of the 
war; he was wounded three times); John F., born 
August 24, 1841, deceased; Joseph, born Maj 23, 
L844, deceased; Margaret, born March 4, 1846, 
married to Bernard Clinton; Melinda. residing in 
Pittsburgh, and William. The father of this fain 
ily was a member of the M. E. Church, the mother 
of the Presbyterian. 

Benjamin F. Scott, eldest son of Alexander and 
Sarah (Clause) Scott, became a painter. He was 
married July 3, 1856, to Miss Jennie Hogan, of 
Spartanburg, S. C. . born in Columbia, S. C, 
daughter of Daniel A. and Sarah (Lawler) Hogan. 
the former of whom was a cotton manufacturer of 
Spartanburg. They were of Scotch Irish ancestry, 
and, what was very remarkable, there was but 
twelve hours difference in their deaths; he was 
born in the evening and died in the evening, 
while she was born in the morning and died in the 
morning. They were members of the Presbyterian 
Church. They were the parents of one son and 
four daughters, viz.: Jane, Catherine, Elizabeth, 
Joseph A. and Theresa. Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin 
F. Scott are the parents of two children ; Rosanna 
A. and Charles A. Of these, Rosanna was mar 
ried twice, first to Frank Miller, a farmer of Wash 
ington county, Penn., by whom she had two chil- 
dren: Daisy M. and F. Earl. Mr. Miller dying, 
she afterward married William Moose; they reside 
on their farm near Woodsfield, Monroe Co., Ohio. 
William Moose is a member of the Presbyterian 
Church. 

Charles A. Scott, whose name introduces this 
sketch, attended the common schools, and com- 
pleted his education at Washington and Jefferson 
College, Washington, Penn. He read medicine 
with F. P. Scott, M. D. . Mouongahela, and one 
year later entered the Western Pennsylvania 
Medical College at Pittsburgh, whence be gradu- 
ated March 27, 1891. Immediately thereafter he 
located in Monongahela, where he has since been 
actively engaged in the practice of his profession, 
and where he ranks among the leading physicians. 
He was married January 2, 1891, to Miss Melissa 
Messenger, who was born on her father's farm on 
Hoge's Summit, Washington county, Penn., a 
daughter of Hon. John C. Messenger, who was 
admitted to the bar of Washington county, but does 
not practice. Mr. Messenger married Miss Sarah 
Wilson, and they reside on their farm on Hoge's 
Summit. Dr. Charles A. Scott and wife have oue 
child, Pauline Keys. Dr. Scott is a member of the 
Junior Order United American Mechanics, and of 
the Knights of the Golden Eagle. He and his 
wife are members of the Presbyterian Church, and 
enjoy the respect and confidence of all who know 
them. 



THE COFFEY FAMILY. To "Caledonia. 
stern and wild," whose hardy sons and 
daughters are to be found in every clime 
where it is possible for a man to live, Amer 
ica is indebted for a large portion of her 
most industrious, most useful, most thrifty and 
most loyal citizens, and among these stand promi- 
nent the Coffey family, of whom this sketch re- 
lates 

George Coffey, a wagon maker by trade, which 
he had learned in his native land. Scotland, was 
the only child of George Coffey. He was married 
there to Miss Agnes, only daughter of Alexander 
Dickey, who came to America and made a settlement 
in Buffalo township, Washington Co . Penn., where 
he died at an advanced age; he was it typical son 
of Scotia, sturdy and tenacious of life, and it is 
said of him that a few mouths before his death he 
journeyed on foot to Pittsburgh in one day. Mr. 
and Mrs. George Coffey, after several years of mar 
ried life in their native land, at the desire of Mr. 
Dickey followed him to his adopted home in Wash- 
ington county, where for a time Mr. Coffey car 
ried on hia trade at Rankintown, on the National 
pike He then moved to Buffalo township, and 
for fourteen years was recognized as the leading 
wagon maker within a radius of many miles. Re- 
tiring, however, from his trade, he took up the 
farm where his son George now lives, located at a 
point on the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, known as 
"Coffey's Crossing," where he engaged in agri- 
cultural pursuits up to the time of his wife's death, 
in 1883, when he came into the borough of Washing- 
ton and here passed his remaining days. He died 
in 1884, at the age of seventy-three years, after a 
busy life, in which by hard work he hud to make 
his own success. When he first came to the county 
there was much in his line of trade to do, repair- 
ing the heavy wagons used in the construction of 
the National pike, besides a vast amount of other 
custom, that came to his shop from far and near. 
In the building up of the home the several mem- 
bers of the family had to do their respective parts, 
and, when they moved from the shop to the farm, 
even the daughters would often work in the field, 
in all kinds of weather, and many a day under a 
broiling sun do as much work as a man. In one 
day Miss Annie Coffey and her sister cut and tied 
about four acres of heavy corn. In those times 
it was customary for the farmers, who had prod- 
uce to sell, to proceed early in the morning to 
Washington market, take their places and patiently 
wait for customers; and frequently Miss Annie 
Coffey and her mother would work in the sugar 
bush until late at night, then go to the house, 
change their clothing, and start on foot for Wash- 
ington, a distance of five miles, carrying heavy 
jugs of maple molasses, which having sold, they 



320 



WASHINGTON col'NTY 



would walk borne, again change their garments, 
and once more go to work in the sugar camp. 
Thus, with little sleep or rest, did the brave women 
of those early days unrepiningly labor to build up 
a home for coming generations, and materially 
assist in the growth and advancement of the 
country. 

To Mr. and Mrs. George Coffey were horn seven 
children, as follows: Alexander, in Iowa; Mag- 
gie, deceased; Annie, in Washington; William, 
deceased; Jennie, married to Daniel Clemens; 
George, on the old home farm in Buffalo township; 
and Agnes, deceased. Of this family Miss Annie, 
with true filial devotion, always remained with her 
1 parents, comforting them in their declining years, 
and reverently closing their eyes in death. She 
has always enjoyed good health, and it is the ear- 
nest prayer of her many friends that she may be 
spared to them for many happy years to come. 
Her home in Washington is peaceful and pleasant, 
as is the life she leads in it. She is a devout mem- 
ber of the Presbyterian Church, the faith of her 
forefathers. 



I( f ENRY B. STANTON. Thadeus Stanton 
f— \ was born February 10, 1817, in Wheeling, 

Va. , and when a small boy came to this 
I) J county, making his first home here near 

Ten Mile village. In Washington he 
learned the harness making trade, serving an ap- 
prenticeship of five years with Jacob Shafer. He 
then moved to Hillsborough, same State, where 
he resided several years, and, returning to Wash 
ington, continued the saddlery and harness busi 
ness until 1850, in which year lie took the census 
of the county. In 1852 he ran for treasurer, but 
was defeated; nothing daunted, however, he ran 
again at the next election, and was elected for one 
term on the Old line Whig ticket; later he became 
;i Democrat. At the close of his term as treasurer 
lie resumed his trade, and continued it almost up 
to the time of his death; he died of dropsy April 
5. 1878, at the age of fifty- five years. On July 8, 
1841, he was married by Rev. George S. Holmes, 
in Washington, to .Miss Jane Ann, daughter of 
Joseph Mahaffey, who came from County Down. 
Ireland, to Washington county, where he died at 
the advanced age of eighty two years. His wife, 
Jane Ann (Patterson), followed him to the grave at 
the age of seventy throe years; they had a large 
family of children, three of whom are yet living: 
Mrs. Stanton, and Mrs. McConahey (widow of 
John), in Washington, and Joseph, in Harshaville, 
Beaver Co., Penn. The children born to Thadeus 
and Jane Ann (Mahaffey) Stanton were seven in 
number, viz : Susan, Letitia, Elizabeth and Sarah 
Agnes (all four deceased), Henry B. and J. A., in 
Washington county, and J. (<., in Canton, Ohio. 



The widowed mother, after the death of the 
father, made her home with her son, Henry, in 
Washington, until her death, April 5, 1893, in the 
seventy fourth year of her age. 

Henry B. Stanton, whose -name opens this 
sketch, was born October 2, 1845, in Washington. 
Washington Co., Penn., his education being re 
ceived at the public schools of the borough. In 
1801 he commenced to learn the trade of saddle 
and harness maker with his father, remaining with 
him till the hitter's death, except a few years he 
was working for others. In 1875 he opened out in 
the same line of business for his own account, and 
has since successfully carried it on, doing a large 
trade and enjoying a wide patronage. On Novem- 
ber 4. 1875, Mr. Stanton was married to Miss 
Catharine, daughter of Daniel Liggett, of this 
county. Politically, our subject is a Democrat, 
but has no time to aspire to office, his business de 
manding and receiving all his attention. 



c 



HARLES W. TOWNSEND, M. D. The 

Townsend family, of which Dr. Town 
fj send is a well known member, is of English 

descent. Many years ago three brothers, 
Elijah, John and Isaiah Townsend (cousins of Glen 
Townsend, of Quebec), left the shores of England 
for America, where they settled in Egg Harbor 
City, N. J., and here Elijah reared a family of 
children, among whom were Daniel, Isaiah, Japhet 
and Elijah. Isaiah owned a line of boats to Cape 
May. 

Daniel Townsend was born August 14, 1747, in 
Egg Harbor City, N. J., where he grew to man 

I il and engaged in the lumber busiuess. In 

177C> he entered the Revolutionary war, serving 
about two years. He took part in the battles of 
Trenton, Princeton. Brandy wine and Monmouth, 
and in 17711 came to Washington county, Penn.. 
where he bought 400 acres of land of Joshua 
Wright, settling permanently on that tract. He 
married Lydia Sauens, of Massachusetts, and of 
this union the following children were born: Cath 
erine (Mrs. John Haird of Beaver county), Naomi 
(Mrs. Uriah Burton), Julia (wife of Peter Sharp). 

Margaret (wife of William Chisler, of Ohiol, Rel ca 

l Mis John Hazen, of Mercer county, Penn.), Ruth 
(Mrs. Stephen Higby, in Ohio), Lydia (wife of 
Arthur Devore, also in Ohio), Elijah (a lieutenant 
in the war of 1812, died in 1S71), and Joseph, all 
of whom were married, and are now deceased. 
The father of this family was a Democrat in poli 
tics. ' He died September 1, 1833. 

Joseph Townsend. son of Daniel and Lydia 
I Sa wens) Townsend, was born March 1, 1790, on 
the old place in Washington county, Penn. He 
lived at home until fifteen years of age, when he 
entered the war of 1812 as a lifer, but was brought 



"' fn'iHiiriraif"' 

i 



fei,v ^ 




^-'f 







-TTT^tr^c^'-e^z^ 



WASH TNG TON ( rOUNTY. 



323 



home by his father. A few years later the juvenile 
warrior had ho far modified his views as to prefer 
rural life, and became an excellent farmer, de- 
voting much attention to sheep raising. # In early 
life he was united in marriage with Nancy, 
daughter of Col. William Blackmore, and grand 
daughter of Samuel Blackmore, who owned 400 
acres on the site of the city of Washington, D. C. 
The property was leased for ninety-nine years, 
which expired in about 1876, the heirs having 
never claimed it. William Blackmore, son of 
Samuel, came with the father from Washington, 
D. C, to Washington county. Penn., and there 
reared six children, viz.: Thomas, Charles, Nancy 
(Mrs. Townsend), Eliza, Ellen, and Arabella, all of 
whom are deceased, except Arabella. To Joseph 
and Nancy (Blackmore) Townsend were born three 
children, namely: Charles W., Daniel 15., and 
William (deceased in youth). The mother died 
December 5, 1833, and in 1834 Joseph Townsend 
married Nancy, daughter of Robert Flack, whose 
father was born in Ireland, came to America about 
1800, and settled on Chartiers creek, in Peters 
township, Washington Co., Penn. To Joseph and 
Nancy (Flack) Townsend were bom three children, 
viz.: Robert (deceased), Elijah T. , and Margaret 
J. (.Mis. J. W. Boyer, of Finleyville). The father 
voted with the Democratic party, and in religion 
was a member of the Baptist Church. He died on 
his seventy-fifth birthday, March 1, 1871, and was 
followed by his wife in August, 1874, in her 
seventy-fifth year. 

Dr. Charles W. Townsend was born April 27, 
1822, on the old farm in Peters township. Wash 
ington Co., Penn. He received an excellent educa- 
tion, was for some time a surveyor in Washington 
county, doing much work, and then read medicine 
for four years with Dr. W. B. Lank, finally gradual 
ing from Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, 
in 1849 lu that year he began to practice his 
profession in Peters township, and in 1854 he 
married Margaret A., daughter of Rev. Joseph 
Wright, of Peters township, this county. To this 
union have been born the following children: 
Joseph (a civil engineer), Catherine (wife of Dr. 
Boyd Emery), William, Jennie L. (Mrs. Obediah 
Higbee), Chatham, Charles. Nellie and Nancy, of 
whom Charles and Nancy died in youth. 

The Doctor has resided on a beautifully im- 
proved farm, on which are six large orchards of 
fruit trues, situated near the old homestead. In 
his chosen profession as a skilled physician he has 
obtained a most remarkable record of success. In 
one epidemic of typhoid fever approaching one 
hundred and fifty cases, every patient recovered, 
and in two other extensive epidemics of the same 
fever success was equally fortunate; during a gen 
eral and extended practice of over forty years, he 
has not lost a lady in obstetrical practice, a fortu 



nate achievement. Such history surely rests on 
the foundation of solid elementary principles, and 
careful thought, and now engaged in raising stock 
as a specialty, he still adheres to and loves his pro 
fession. In politics he is faithful to pure Demo 
cratic and Jeffersonian Republican principles, and 
on one occasion, in 1883, to give him a rest, his friends 
elected him to the Legislature without a single 
effort on his own part. With firm belief in the 
orthodoxy of the Trinity, he faithfully accepts the 
substantial philosophy of future entitative exis- 
tence. 

The following is a copy of an old deed given by 
Hugh Sharp to Elijah Townsend, of Great Egg 
Harbor, county of Gloucester, province of New 
Jersey, the date thereof being June 26, 1739. It 
is written in old English on sheepskin two and a 
half feet long. This Elijah Townsend was the 
father of Daniel Townsend, Elijah Townsend, 
Isaiah Townsend and Japhet Townsend of Great 
Egg Harbor, New Jersey : 

This Indenture, made 26th day el' June, 1739, in the 
thirteenth reign ot em- Sovereign < reorge the 2nd of Great 
Britain, King, etc., between Hugh Sharp of the township 
of Worthingborough, in the county of Burlington, prov- 
ince of New Jersey, j an, of the first part, ami Elijah 

Townsend, of Great Egg Harbor in the county of Glou 
i ester, aforesaid, pro\ ince "I Nev> Jersey, yeomen, of the 
other part. Now this indenture forever witnesseth that 
the said Hugh Sharp forand in consideration of the sum 
of four pounds current monej of province of New Jer- 
sey to him in hand paid by the said Elijah Townsend ill 
or before the ensealing and delivery of said property, the 
receipt whereof to the said Hugh Sharp doth hereby ac- 
knowledge paid in full lor every part and parcel thereof, 
doth hereby acquit, release, exonerate and discharge the 
said Elijah Townsend, his heirs, executors and adminis- 
trators and everj of them forever by these presents, hath 
granted, bargained and sold, aliened, enfeoffed, released, 
conveyed and confirmed, and doth by these presents fully 
clearly and absolutely grant, bargain, sell, alien, enfeoff, 
release, conveyand confirm unto the said Elijah Towns 
end and his heirs and assigns I'oreverall that tract of land 

situated near Great Egg Harbor River on a branch of the 
South River in the < lounty of Gloucester, in the Province 
of New Jersey, being in two tracts, the first bounded as 
follows: Beginning ata maple tree on the west side of 
said river, being corner of a formersurvey of said Hugh 
Sharp, then by the said river X. \V. twentj deg. six chains, 
then N. E. Six deg. fourteen chains W. 0. by the said 
river, thence S. ">* den. \V. thirty four and half chains to 
a post, thence S. 32 E. seventeen chains to post, N. 58 
E. 24 chains to Maple post named containing forty-five 
acres with allowance for highways. The other tract lie- 
gins at a W. <>. mi the other side of the said Smith River, 
some distance from the lirst tract, thence south 63 E. 
five chains to post S. 20 E. sixteen chains S. 62 W. six 
chains and half to South River by which it is hounded 
northwest to the beginning containing 15 acres and allow- 
ance; both tracts contain sixty acres, recorded in the Sur- 
veyor General's office in Burlington, in B. M. folio 97. 
Reference being thereunto had will more at large appear 
together with all the minerals, mines, woods, fishings, 
fowlings, hawkings, huntings, and all other royalties, 
propts, commodities, hereditaments, appurtenances to the 
said sixtv acres of land and provisions belonging, or in 
any wise pertaining, and all the estate, right, title, inter- 
est, property, claim and demand whatsoever of the said 



324 



WA.sllIXGTON COU.\ I) 



Hugh Sharp in law and equity of into or to the said 
granted and bargained sixty acres of land and premises, 
and every part and parcel thereof with their heirs, exec- 
utors and the revisions and remanders thereof part and 
parcel, to have and to hold the said two tracts of land 
containing sixty acres and allowance and every part and 
parcel thereof and appurtenances unto the said Elijah 
Townsend, to tin- only proper use and behoof of him. tin' 
said Elijah Townsend, heirs and assigns forevermore. 
And the said Eugh Sharp and his heirs doth covenant, 
grant and agree to ami with the said Elijah Townsend, 
his heirs ami assigns forever by these presents in man- 
ner and form following: that is the said Hugh Sharp at 
the time of the entailing and delivery of these presents 
is lawfully and rightfully with absolute authority to 
grant, bargain and Bell, alien, enfeoff, release, convey and 
confirm the land confirmed, granted and bargained the 
sixty acres of land and premises and every part and par 
eel thereof and appurtenances unto tin- said Elijah 
Townsend, his heirs and assigns forever, according to the 
tenure purport ami intent and meaning of these presents, 
and that t lie land is free and clear and clearly acquired ami 
discharged from all former gifts, grants, bargains, sales, 
mortgages. wills, entails, dowries, judgments, or any other 
plea that may in any wise hurt tin- land. And that it shall 
and may bo lawful to and for the said Elijah Townsend his 
heirs and assigns from time to time and at all times for 
ever hereafter by value of these presents to have, hold, 
occupy to vest and enjoy all and singular the said two 
tract,-,' of laud containing sixty acres and premises by 
i 1 !, ie presents mentioned with the appurtenances with- 
out erection, ejectment or any other intrusions of the said 
Hugh Sharp his heirs and executors or any other person 
whatsoever claiming or pretending to claim the same or 
any pari or parcel thereof. In law whatsoever for the 
better and better ami more perfect assurance making, 
conveying and confirming tin- said granted and bargained 
two tracts of laud containing sixty acres and allowance 
with every part and panel thereof with the appurten- 
ances unto the. said Elijah Townsend, his heirs and as- 
signs forever, according the tenure purpose to the intent 
and true meaning of these presents. In witness whereof 
the said Hugh Sharp, party first above named in this 
present indenture have unto these presents set his hand 
and seal the day ami year above written 17H9. The 
above tract of land was conveyed by Thomas More and 
Johanna, bis wife, to the above named Hugh Sharp bear- 
ing date 9th day of April, 1715, which record will more 
fully and more at large appear upon the public records 
in tiie province of New Jersey. 

Tli is twenty-sixth day of ye sixth month of June, 1739. 

[Some words illegible.] I Hugh Sharp being oi f ye 

judges of ye common pleas for ye county of Burlington 
do acknowledge that I signed, sealed and delivered ye 
above said instrument as my only act and as is above des 
cribed as witness my hand. 

Signed, sealed anil (Signed) HUGH SHAHP [SS.] 

delivered in the pres- 
ence of 

Mary M. I is >. 

II. TI. Cox, 

ClIAltl.ES SCOTT. [SS.] 



CHARLES L. DRIEHORST. SR., one of the 
leading business men of Washington, is a 
native of the "Fatherland," born August 14, 
1810, in a small town on the river Weiser. 
"Lauenforda," Kingdom of Hanover. His father 
died in 1845, his mother some time later. 

Before leaving his native land our subject had 



learned the trade of carpenter and joiner, at which 
he worked there for a time. Then, having de- 
cided to seek the New World, he set sail in April. 
L841, landing on June 21 in Baltimore, whence he 
at once "proceeded to Washington county, Penn., 
where a sister had already settled. He immedi 
ately began work at his trade, anil being desirous 
of obtaining, as quickly as possible, a thorough 
knowledge of the English language, he spent the 
winter months in school. On October 10, 1842, 
he went squirrel hunting, and one of those little 
rodents, which he had shot, having lodged in a 
tree, he climbed to get it, but unfortunately slipped, 
and fell to the ground, whereby he received injii 
ries, which confined him to the house for several 
years. He was first taken care of by a sister, and 
afterward by the family of Judge Wotring, where 
in his affliction he found a home. By the time he 
was able to resume work, all his savings, laid away 
by careful thrift, were completely exhausted, and 
he had again to begin life at the bottom of the 
ladder. In November. 1845, he set sail for the 
"Fatherland," where he remained until the spring 
of 1S46, and on his return he again landed in Balti- 
more in June. On July 7, 1841), he married Miss 
Amelia Klieves, in Wheeling, who was also from 
the same place in Germany. She died August 15, 
1861, leaving six children, as follows: Theodore, 
Rosanna, Matilda, Charles, Lewis and Louisa. On 
March 5, 1803, Mr. Driehorst was married to 
Augusta Klieves, sister of his lirst wife. He worked 
as contractor at his trade till 1864, after which he 
entered the clothing store of J. B. Reckers as 
clerk, in which capacity he worked for thirteen 
years. In 1877 he began the grocery business on 
his own account, opening a small store on his prop- 
erty on West Wheeling street ; the following spring 
lie mhled to it a bakery, which by industry and 
strict attention to business, and the wants of his 
customers, he has built up, till it is the leading es- 
tablishment of the kind in the town. Politically 
our subject is a Democrat, and has served both as 
assessor and collector of taxes in the borough of 
Washington. In church connection he is a Lu- 
theran, and has ever been faithful to his church 
and its interests. 



I If, ATTHEW BLAINE, one of the oldest and 
\f/| most prominent citizens of Beallsville, 
1*1, Penn.. is also a representative of one of 
I — the oldest families of Washington county. 
His grandfather. John Blaine, was born 
in County Antrim, Ireland, where he was married, 
and reared the following family: John (who came 
to America prior to the Revolutionary war, and 
heartily espoused the cause of his adopted coun- 
try, after the close of the war settling in Venango 
county, Penn.), James, Leonard, Matthew, Robert 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



325 



ami a daughter, who died on the voyage to Amer- 
ica. The four younger brothers came with their 
mother to America in L779, and after a three 
months' voyage landed in New Yurk. They first 
located in East Bethlehem township. Washington 
Co., Penn., then purchased a small farm in Som 
erset township, same county, where Indians were 
very numerous. Robert, Matthew and Leonard 
then moved to Venango county, where the two for- 
mer passed their lives. After coining to America, 
Leonard Blaine (who was born in 1761, in County 
Antrim, Ireland) resided in Venango county for 
about eight years, then came to Washington conn! v. 
and was there married to Margaret Isehart. The 
young people settled on the wild tract of land in 
Somerset township, this county, and reared the 
following children: Margaret, deceased wife of 
John Jones; Elizabeth, deceased wife of Joshua 
Craven; William, deceased; Leonard; Jane, mar- 
ried to David Fleming; Mary and Matthew. The 
father was a very well educated man, and taught 
school until the present educational system was 
organized. The schoolhouse was of the usual 
primitive style, furnished in a meager way, and 
the text-books then used were limited to the 
"United States Speller" and the "Western Cal 
culator. " The terms of tuition were $1.25 per 
pupil for a term of three months, but many were 
taught by Mr. Blaine without payment, and no 
charge was made for old pupils. Politically he 
was a Democrat, and served as clerk of the Wash 
ington county commissioners; in religious faith he 
was a member of the Seceder Church at Pigeon 
Creek. He died in 1848, followed by his wife in 
1850, and both were buried on the home place. 

Matthew Blaine was born February 14, 1819, on 
the home farm in Somerset township, Washington 
Co., Penn., and attended the subscription schools 
of the locality. He began life for himself at the 
age of fifteen years, and on May 14, 1843, married 
Mary, daughter of Bennett and Ann (Hill) Morton, 
natives of East Bethlehem township, this county. 
The children of Mr. and Mrs. Morton were as fol 
lows: Mary, wife of Matthew Blaine: Stephen; 
Joseph, who enlisted in the Ringgold Battalion, 
was captured and first taken to Libby Prison, 
thence to Andersonville, where he died; John; 
Eleanor, wife of William C. Sargeant; Moses, and 
Elizabeth, wife of Daniel Zellars. The father was 
a Whig in politics, and in religion a member of 
the M. E. Church. Mr. and Mrs. Blaine resided 
on the old homestead until 1872. when he pur- 
chased a farm in East Bethlehem township, this 
county, remaining there until 1890. then came to 
their present home in Beallsville. He has always 
followed agricultural pursuits. In political opin- 
ion he is actively identified with the Democratic 
party, and has served as justice of the peace; in 
religion he is a member and steward of the M. E. 



Church. Mrs. Blaine passed away July 1, 1889, 
leaving two daughters, Elizabeth J., wife of John 
Aiken, and Margaret M. A., married to Stephen 
W. Hill. 




ILLIAM H. WITHERSPOON, one of the 
most prosperous wool and grain merchants 

||7 of Burgettstown, tr; s his lineage to a 

well-known family of Scotland. 
John Witherspoou was born and reared in the 
old country, where he was also married. After 
the birth of their eldest son I he young couple 
came to America, and resided in Maryland for se\ 
era! years, and prior to L800 they moved to Wash 
ington county, and in 1N24 he purchased a small 
unimproved tract of laud in Robinson township, 
upon which a log cabin was erected. Their chil- 
dren were as follows: .Jonathan, John, Azarinh. 
Joshua and Elizabeth. The father of this family 
was a Democrat in politics, and in religion he be- 
came one of the tirsl members of the Associate 
Reformed Church, in which he was an elder many 
years. After the death of the father, the sons 
purchased 200 acres of land, and Jonathan finally 
sold his share to Joshua. The rest of the tract is 
the property of Thomas Biggert and Isaac Don 
aldson. 

Joshua Witherspoou was born in 1S0'_', irj Rob 
inson township, this county, and passed his boj 
hood on the home farm, attending the subscription 
schools during the winter months. On January 
3, 1824, he was united in marriage with Jane, 
daughter of John Hooper, of Allegheny county, 
Penn. John Hooper was born December 26, 1777, 
and his wife, Elizabeth, was born February 2*1, 
1776. Their children were as follows: Nancy, 
born March 4, 1799; Jennie, born March 4, 1801; 
William, born June 15, 1803; Peggy, born October 
2. 1806; Eleanor, born December 13. 1811; and 
Elizabeth, born January 28, 1817. The parents 
were members of the Sharon Presbyterian Church, 
and in politics Mr. Hooper was a Democrat. 

Joshua and Jane (Hooper) Witherspoon began 
married life on the home place in Robinson town 
ship, this county, which became their permanent 
home. The children born to this union were John 
(a resident of Robinson township), Elizabeth (de 
ceased wife of William Gilliland, of Beaver county, 
Penn.), William H. (of whom a sketch follows), 
James W. (a minister of the Fifth Presbyterian 
Church of Allegheny, Perm.), and Samuel (resid- 
ing on the home place). The father was an active 
worker in the Democratic party, and in religion 
was from early youth a member of the Associate 
Reformed Church at Robinson, serving as ruling 
elder for some time. He died April 16, 1858, and 
was followed by his widow August 9, 1888; both 
are buried in the church cemetery at Robinson. 



326 



WASHINGTON ( BOUNTY. 



William H. Witherspoon was boru August 3, 
1831, on the old homestead in Robinson township, 
where his youth was passed, and he received a 
good common-school education. On December 28, 
1854, he was married to Mary, daughter of William 
Hood, of Hanover township, this county. The 
young people resided on the home place in Robin 
son township seven years after their marriage, then 
moved to Hanover township, and six years after- 
ward settled in Burgettstown, Smith township, 
where they are now living. On coming to Bur- 
gettstown, William H. Witherspoon opened a gen- 
eral store, and also carried on a business in grain 
and produce. In 1884 he made a new departure, 
sold the store, and began dealing extensively in both 
wool and grain, making a specialty of the former, 
purchasing wool in different parts of Washington, 
Allegheny and Beaver counties, Penn., as well as 
in the State of Ohio. Iu politics he is an influen- 
tial member of the Republican party. His was the 
first business house established on the west side of 
the railroad track iu Burgettstown. Mr. Wither- 
spoon was one of the building committee of the U. 
P. Church at Burgettstown, and gave liberally of 
his time and money to its erection. He was for 
merly connected with the Associate Reformed 
Church, which afterward merged into the U. P. 
Church, of which he has been an elder for many 
years, also serving in that capacity in the churches 
at Robinson and Frankfort Springs. 



for many years, was a class-leader. A liberal con- 
tributor to all worthy enterprises, he died esteemed 
by all. He held the office of school director for 
six years and treasurer of Jefferson township 
school board for a decade. 

Hugh Patterson grew to manhood on the old 
farm which had been bought of William Wells, of 
Wellsville, Ohio, and passed his youth thereon, 
caring for his aged parents. He began mercantile 
business in Eldersville, Penn., in company with 
William Wilson for some fifteen years, and retired 
about thirty years ago. Mr. Patterson is about 
five feet eleven inches iu stature, healthy and well 
formed, possessing a remarkably clear mind, and 
writing a steady hand for one of his years. In 
politics his first vote was cast for Joseph Ritner, 
as governor of Pennsylvania, for whom be again 
voted three years later, aiding in gaining the elec- 
tion, also voting for him a fourth time. His first 
Presidential vote was cast for Jackson. Mr. Pat- 
terson was an anti-slavery man, and of recent 
years has been an advocate of the principles em- 
bodied iu the Republican party. In 1842 he was 
postmaster of Eldersville, also served one term 
after Taylor's election, finally resigning the office. 
He has been tendered other positions, among 
which were those of justice of the peace and county 
commissioner, but declined to serve in either capac- 
ity. Mr. Patterson is now reaping the reward of 
early toil, and is held in high regard by all who 
have known him. 



I I UGH PATTERSON, one of the oldest, most 
l^ll respected and prosperous citizens of Jeffer- 
son township, was born November 7, 1807, 
\\ -* near Eldersville, Washington Co.. Penn.. 
~* in an old log cabin which is yet standing. 

James Patterson, his father, was born, reared and 
educated in Ireland, and coming to America soon 
after the Revolution, remained with his brother 
John and three sisters, for some months near 
Philadelphia". The two brothers were, for a time, 
employed in "flailing" wheat, getting one-tenth as 
his share, making the sum of 33^ cents per day. 
Afterward they moved to Allegheny county. 
where they rented a farm, remained a short 
time, and then came to Washington county and 
purchased a farm in Jefferson township. Hugh 
was married to Sarah Given, prior to locating in 
Washington county. To them the following chil- 
dren were born: John, Mary (wife of William 
Moore), James, Sarah (married to Robert Pogue), 
Elizabeth (deceased wife of Erasmus Cooper, and 
mother of H. C. Cooper), Hugh and William, all 
now deceased except Hugh. The father died at 
the age of ninety three years, a few months after 
his wife's decease. In politics he was tirst a Jack-i 
sonian Democrat, and then an auti slavery Whig. 
Iu church matters he was a stanch Methodist, and, 




TLLIAM M. GEORGE, the proprietor of 
an extensive lumber business and feed 
store in McDonald, Penn., was boru Feb 
^ ^ ruary 13, 1835, in Mt. Pleasant township, 
this county. He is a son of John, and 
grandson of Robert George, the latter of whom 
wasborn in Ireland, and was married to Christiana 
Plance in eastern Pennsylvania, and moved to 
Miller's Run. She bore him thirteen children. 
The young couple first settled on the Miller's Run 
farm, and cleared and improved the pioneer home. 
They were progressive citizens and among the 
earliest members of the Covenanter Church, hold- 
ing their tirst meetings in a small log cabin. The 
names of the family of Robert George are as fol- 
lows: Thomas George, of Jefferson county, Ohio; 
Robert George, Carroll county, Ohio; David George 
and Jacob George, of Washington county, Penn.: 
Alexander George, of Illinois; John George and Mar 
^aret Slater, of Washington county, Penn. ; Eliz- 
abeth McMastets, Carroll county, Ohio; Hannah 
Robinson, Pittsburgh, Penn.; Ann Ramsey and 
Jane Robb, of Washington county ; Robert George, 
of Miller's Run, died August L5, 1819, aged sev- 
enty live years. 

John George was bom m January. 1808, on the 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



327 



home place in Mt. Pleasant township, this count)-, 
and passed his youth there assisting in the farm 
work, and attending the subscription schools of the 
vicinity. In early manhood he selected as his life 
companion Sarah, daughter of William McCrea. of 
Cross Creek township, and brought his bride to 
the ')ld home farm January 3, \^'- J ,2. Two chil- 
dren were born to this union: Robert Jamison and 
William McCrea. The mother died August 3, 
1836, and for his second wife Mr. George was mar 
ried in September, 1837, to Margaret Roney, who 
died May 29, 1838. His third wife, to whom he 
was married August 6, 1841, was Jane Slater, who 
bore him children as follows: Christiana; Martha 
A., who died May 1, 1843; Robert J.; M. G. Tag 
gait; Margaret A. Slater; M. E. Coleman; and 
Mary E. Carithers. Mr. George was a farmer and 
stock raiser and an energetic business man, and in 
religious connection a stanch member of the Cove 
nanter Church. 

William M. George was educated in the district 
schools, and on December 25, 1872, was united in 
marriage with MaryE., daughter of Robert Speer, 
of Ohio. The children born to this union are: 
John Ralph Speer, Robert Howard, William Mc- 
Crea. Arthur Melville, Louella Blanche and Mary 
Edna. Mr. George learned the carpenter's and 
builder's trade in early life, following it several 
years. In 1873 he came to McDonald, and opened 
a lumber business and a grist-mill, having recently 
given his whole time to the former occupation, in 
connection with a feed store, recently added. He 
has the most extensive business of the kind in Me 
Donald, the old firm name, George & Wallace, 
being succeeded by W. M. George & Co. (limited | 
Their success is due to arduous effort. The prin 
ciples of the Covenanter Church were inculcated 
in the mind of Mr. George from childhood, and 
he has ever been a strong advocate and earnest 
supporter of that Society. 




\ILLIAM B. McCORKLE is a son of 
Thomas McCorkle, who was born in 
Washington county, and married to Anna 
McCullough, also a native of the county, 
born in 1833. Thomas and Anna Mc- 
Corkle reared the following family of children: 
William B., Colwell (a farmer of Somerset town- 
ship), David, Lizzie, Minnie, Retta, James and 
Samuel, of whom the last three are now deceased. 
The father died on the home farm in 1882; he was 
a member of the United Presbyterian Church. 
On August 12, 1886, Mrs. McCorkle was united in 
marriage with Frederick Whitely, of Somerset 
township. 

William B. McCorkle was born December lit, 
1858, on the home farm in this county, and on 



April 5, 1888, was united in matrimonial alliance 
with Miss Martha J. Bebout. who was born Janu- 
ary 7, 1868, in Washington county, Penn., and is 
a daughter of David and Dorothy (McMurray) Be- 
bout, who reared the following family of children: 
Catherine (wife of Weir McNary), James, Belle, 
Frank, Martha J. (Mrs. McCorkle"), Elizabeth, and 
Dora (the last named being deceased). Her father 
is a farmer in Cecil township, this county, and both 
her parents are members of the Presbyterian 
Church. Mr. McCorkle resides on the pleasant 
and fruitful farm of IOC) acres, where he was 
born. He and his wife are members of the United 
Presbyterian Church, and he is a Democrat. 



f,OHN PATRICK DARRAH, a leading re 
tired agriculturist and a representative self- 
\Y\ made man, is a native of County Antrim, Ire- 
^ land, born in 1826. His father, William 
Darrah, was married in the "Emerald Isle" to 
Jennie McMuller, and they had born to them a 
family of eight children, viz. : Archibald, who 
died in Kansas; Alexander, who died in the East 
Indies; George, who died in East Liverpool, Ohio; 
John, who died in Glasgow, Scotland; John Pat- 
rick; William (deceased); Annie, married to 
Michael Parker, and died in Pittsburgh, and Mary, 
who died in Glasgow, Scotland. The parents both 
died in Ireland long since. 

John P. Darrah came to America about 1843, 
with his brother George, landing in Montreal, 
Canada, whence, two years later, he proceeded to 
Buffalo, N. Y., by way of the St. Lawrence, Lake 
Ontario, etc., and thence at once went to Pitts- 
burgh, Penn., where he remained, however, but 
one year, when he came to Washington county. 
He was a poor boy, without means to pay for 
stage hire or any other mode of conveyance, so he 
had to walk the entire distance from Pittsburgh 
to the town of Washington. Here he soon ob- 
tained employment on the National pike, in course 
of construction between Washington and Wheel- 
ing, and this was his first start in life in the land 
of his adoption. Mr. Darrah has been a resident 
of Washington county ever since. He industriously 
worked at various employments, practicing strict 
economy, until he was enabled to buy, in 1861, a 
farm in Morris township. This he sold, and then 
bought, in Franklin township, the farm now owned 
by Nelson Hathaway, where he remained some sev- 
enteen or eighteen years, when he moved into the 
city of Washington, having erected his present 
commodious residence, on the edge of Franklin 
township. On October 29, 1855, Mr. Darrah was 
married to Miss Catherine Naughten, a native of 
Galway, Ireland, whence her family had come to 
Washington county, her brother John having 



328 



U.\Slfl\(ri'ON COUNTY. 



been an early settler here, but they are all now 
deceased. To Mr. and Mrs. J. P. Darrab were 
horn seven children, of whom the following is a 
In itf record: George B. is a prominent contractor 
and builder in Washington, Penn. ; Alexander E. 
is a graduate of Washington and Jefferson Col- 
lege, and for three years was a professor of Greek 
and Latin in Beech Grove College, Beech Grove, 
Tenn. (he is now principal of one of the ward 
schools in the city of Nashville, Tenn., where he 
resides); John K. is a law student in the West; 
Alexander and Robert Emmet both died young; 
Jennie P. and Anna M. are at home with their 
father. Mrs. Darrah (the mother of these chil 
dreu) died August 2, 1889, at the age of about 
sixty years, and is buried in the Catholic cemetery, 
ni'iir Washington. Politically, Mr. Darrah has 
always been a Democrat, but never a partisan, 
and he is a member of the Catholic Church. He 
and his wife were the first couple to be married in 
the old Catholic church building in the borough 
nf Washington. 

When Mr. Darrah first came to what is now 
the borough of Washington he found it an old, 
dead-looking place, without any improvements to 
speak of. When night-time came the place was 
covered as with a pall, the darkness was so impen- 
etrable, the only light visible being from a chance 
tallow candle placed in a window here and there. 
Candles were brought to the town by the wagon 
load from Wellsburg, Mr. Darrah himself having 
at one time brought a load. It was dangerous to 
walk the streets at night, owing to the deficiency 
of lights and the rude condition of the streets 
The stage coach was a daily visitor at the place, 
and its arrival and departure produced about the 
only excitement the staid inhabitants had an op- 
portunity of indulging in. Taking horses East, 
"over the mountains," to sell, was at the time a 
source of considerable revenue. The animals 
would be taken in large droves, "double-tandem " 
fashion, with a long, stout rope between each row, 
to which they were fastened, and every sixth horse 
had a rider in charge. Mr. Darrah had his share 
of the hardships incident to those pioneer days, 
and experienced many privations, but by a life of 
industry, perseverance and strict temperance he 
succeeded in overcoming all obstacles and evolving 
a handsome competence from a commencement of 
nothing, save a pair of willing hands and a stout 
heart. 



^ILLIAM H. MARTIN, a leading farmer 
and breeder of fine cattle and sheep, of 
South Strabane township, was born 
September 9. 1842, on the farm where he I 
now resides. 

Peter Martin, grandfather of subject, was born 




in 1759 in York county, Penn. He was a son of 
Samuel Martin, who emigrated from Scotland 
along with his son James, and was the first of the 
family to settle in York county, where he followed 
farming and died. He had five daughters ami 
two sons. Peter Martin, Sr., purchased a farm of 
Jacob Shively (the original patent for which, writ 
ten on sheepskin, is now in the possession of his 
grandsons). Peter Martin, who had been a farmer 
iill his days, died May 12, 1843, aged eighty four 
vears, a member of the old Seceder Church. He 
had four children, and among the younger mem 
bers of the family was James Martin, who was born 
in York county, Penn., May 12, 1792. He was 
but a child when his parents came to Washington 
county, and purchased the farm in South Strabane 
township. James Martin was married, April 19, 
1821, in Washington county, to Miss Mary White, 
who was born April 19, 1800, on her father's farm 
in North Strabaue township, not far from Canons- 
burg. He was a farmer, and he and wife were 
I members first of the Seceder Church, then of the 
I United Presbyterian. Their children were as fol 
lows: Peter, born February 4, 1822, married to 
Mary J. Clokey, died December 23, 1862; Samuel, 
born January 24, 1824. married to Sarah Herron; 
James, born December 12, 1825, married to Eliza 
j beth Clokey; John W., born January 11, 1828, 
married to Elizabeth Allison; Matthew A., born 
December 7, 1829, unmarried; Mary J., born 
September 21, 1832, died September 13, 1855, un- 
married; Ebenezer H., born June 21, 1834, died 

. . . . 

unmarried (was a soldier in the Civil war, ami was 

drowned in the Appomattox, June 23, 1864, while 
serving in the signal service corps); Ann E., born 
November 2, 1837, died September 5, 1838; Will- 
iam H, our subject, aud Thomas Jefferson, unmar- 
ried. 

William H. Martin was educated in the common 
schools of his township, and was united in marriage 
January 17, 1867, with Miss Anna M. Thome, who 
was born in North Strabane township, a daughter 
of James Thome. They have two children, Abbie 
E., wife of Rev. W. A. Jones, of Knoxville, Pitts- 
burgh, Penn., and Willis J. William H. Martin 
and his brother inherited the old homestead farm 
of their father and grandfather. They now own 
325 acres in South Strabane township, most of 
which is under cultivation. They raise grain, but 
pay chief attention to the raising and breeding of 
fine cattle and sheep. William H. Martin is one 
of the board of directors of the Western Pennsyl- 
vania Fair Association. He has held various local 
offices of trust, and is now a school director, hav 
ing held that office for a number of years. He 
and his wife are members of the U. P. Church, and 
he is an elder in the church at Pigeon Creek. In 
politics he has always supported the Republican 
party. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



329 



R. J. C. McCTJLLOUGH, a well known 
I physician of Amwell township, with resi- 
dence at Lone Pine, is of Scotch -Irish de- 
scent. His grandfather, William McCul- 
lough, born in West Bethlehem township, this 
county, was married to Rebecca Dunn. He passed 
all his life in that township, following the vocation 
of a farmer, and died at the age (if about eighty 
seven years. 

David McCullough, son of William and Rebecca 
(Dunn) McCullough, was born February 21, 1818, 
in West Bethlehem township, remaining then- till 
March, 1S43, when he was united in marriage with 
Catherine Lancaster, by which union there were 
born the following children: Hiram, who enlisted 
in the One Hundred and Fortieth P. V. I., and 
died in prison; Sarah Jane (Mrs. Wood), a resi 
dent of Greene county, Penn. ; Rebecca, who was 
killed by a falling tree when eight years of age: 
John Cary; Mary Elizabeth (Maukey), residing in 
Washington; Joanna (Mrs. Horn), a resident of 
Amwell township; Samuel (deceased about the 
year 1888), who in his lifetime was a skillful 
wagon maker and blacksmith; Emma (Mrs. Scott), 
living in Washington county; Ella; William Ells- 
worth, who died of typhoid fever in L883; Spencer 
and Newton, residents of Amwell township, both 
farmers. After his marriage David McCullough 
moved into Amwell township, east of Amity, near 
Big creek, and in 1849 located on the hill near the 
Baptist church, on the Clarktown road. He after- 
ward moved to his father's farm, remaining there 
until the spring of 1855, when he went to Aleppo 
township, Greene county, and purchased a faun 
which he sold in the spring of 1876; again coming 
to Washington county in 1883, he bought the place 
where he now resides, near Amity. For more 
than forty years he has been a member of the Cum- 
berland Presbyterian Church, and he has been a 
lay delegate to the Presbytery. Politically, lie 
was formerly a Whig, then a Republican, but has 
never accepted any official positions. 

Mrs. McCullough was a daughter of Samuel 
Lancaster, and was brought up by the Spencers 
near Clarksville. They formerly lived near Phila- 
delphia, and old Mrs. Spencer heard the firing of 
the guns at the battle of Germantown, during the 
Revolutionary war. 

J. C. McCullough was born on the farm east of 
Amity, Washington county, July 2, 1849, and re- 
mained at home until eighteen years of age, when 
he began teaching. He taught during the winter 
time, and was thus enabled to pay the expenses of 
his attendance at the summer terms at Jackson- 
ville Academy, and at Waynesburgh, Greene coun 
ty, until he was twenty-four years of age. Leav- 
ing college in the junior year, he began studying 
medicine at Cameron, W. Va., with Dr. S. B. 
Stidger, the leading physician of the county, and 



under his instruction remained two years, teaching 
in the winters. At the end of that time he went 
to the Medical College of Ohio, at Cincinnati, where 
he spent the winter of 1875-76. He then prac- 
ticed four years in Marshall county, W. Va., after 
ward returning to the same college, where he grad- 
uated with honors March 1, 1881. He took one of 
the prizes offered to the graduating class of 105 
pupils (a case of instruments), and stood second in 
the branches of chemistry and anatomy. He then 
returned to Marshall county, and on March 19, 
1SS4, was there united in marriage with Miss Jen- 
nie Kittle, a daughter of Samuel and Caroline 
(Wellman) Kittle, at Cameron, W. Va., where he 
practiced medicine eight years. Their union has 
been blessed with three children: Loyal C, Myra 
J. and Samuel Smith. 

In the spring of 1889 Dr. McCullough came to 
Lone Pine, where he has already secured an ex- 
cellent practice. He is a thorough, earnest stu- 
dent, and has evinced great pluck and persever 
ance, richly deserving the success which has 
crowned his efforts. In his political opinion he is 
a Republican, and he was a member of the board 
of health of Marshall county, W. Va., two years. 
In religious connection both he and Mrs. McCul 
lough are members of the M. E. Church. 



J/OSEPH WILLISON. On January 4, 1827, 
one Daniel Houston purchased 256 acres of 
j land in Chartiers township, and after the 
Chartiers Valley It. R. was completed, laid 
out Houstonville. The fertile valley was a 
pleasant site for the proposed village, and lots were 
soon purchased; the work of building progressed 
rapidly, and ere long a beautiful little town had 
sprung into existence. Among those who were 
charmed with the location and appearance of the 
place was Joseph Willison, a native of Allegheny 
county, Penn. He is a son of Isaac Willison, who 
was born in Cumberland county, Penn., and reared 
on the home farm. In early manhood Isaac Willi 
son selected a life companion in the person of 
Maitha, daughter of Stephen Long. She died at 
Noblestown, Allegheny Co., Penn., leaving three 
children, namely: Catharine, Eliza and Joseph 
Willison. Catharine was married to William Chis- 
holm. To this union one son was born, and in 
process of time he became Dr. I. W. Chisholm, of 
New Concord, Ohio. Eliza married John Cooper, 
of Venango county, Penn., and to them were born 
two sons and two daughters. 

Joseph Willison was born August 24, 1823, near 
Noblestown, Allegheny county, and when yet a boy 
hired out as a farm hand for one year at $7 per 
month. His mother died when he was but two 
days old. and at the age of fourteen years he was 
left an orphan. At the end of his first year's work 



330 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



on the farm he made another bargain, and worked 
on a farm the following six years for $10 per month, 
the highest wages then received. His education 
was obtained at the subscription school, Moon 
township, Allegheny county, and the Moore school, 
near Hickory, this county, where he received in- 
struction at the rate of 2 cents per day — not being 
a regularly enrolled student. A hard life was that 
of the homeless orphan lad, but bravely, uncom- 
plainingly, he struggled on, rewarded at last for 
iiis indomitable spirit of persevering industry. At 
the age of twenty-one years he went to work in a 
flouring mill at Ganonsburg for $10 per month, 
with his Uncle Butler Willison (who was a cousin 
of (ien. Ben. Butler), remaining there until he 
had learned the business. He then went to Pat- 
ton's mill, working there two years for $12 per 
month. In 1849 he returned to Canonsburg and 
took charge of the Hour mill (owned by James 
Berry) on shares. At that time the mill was not 
paying expenses, but when, fourteen years later, 
he retired on account of ill health, they were doing 
a very prosperous business, and 10,000 bushels of 
grain were in the mill. On February 12, 1850, 
this enterprising young business man decided that 
a permanent partnership was essential to the high 
est success in life, and to till that important posi 
tion selected Elizabeth, daughter of William and 
lillen Black. Children were born to the union of 
Joseph and Elizabeth Willison as follows: Anna 
Belle (wife of Charlie Jones), born January 9, 1851, 
died April 30, 1880, leaving one son and one daugh- 
ter; Ellen Clara, born January 2, 1852, deceased Oc- 
tober 30, 1852; and Lizzie, born February 23, 1853, 
deceased August31, 1877. The mother passed away 
March 4, 1853, and on June 22, 1854, Joseph Wil- 
lison was married to Anna, daughter of James and 
Nancy Lyons, of Beaver county, Penu. To this 
marriage the following children have been born, of 
whom the following is a brief record: Linda P., 
born October 7, 1855, is the widow of John B. 
Miller, who owned the grain cradle factory; since 
the death of her husband Mrs. Miller has not only 
conducted the business with admirable success, but 
has enlarged the capacity of the mill. Homer I., 
I lorn May 24, 1857, is now operating his father's 
farm; he is married to Dorrit, daughter of Andrew 
Russell. William Oscar, born August 1,1861, is 
engaged in putting down gas and oil wells; the 
maiden name of his wife was Jennie Taggart, 
daughter of Samuel Taggart. J. Knowles was 
born May 1, 1803, ami died December 30, 1880. 
Walter D. , born October 25, 1866, is foreman in 
the grain cradle factory for his sister, Mrs. Miller. 
Charlie B., born September 18, 1870, is also em- 
ployed in the same factory. 

In the year 1863 Joseph Willison purchased a 
farm of 127 acres, situated one mile west of lions 
touville, Chartiers township. This place is under 



laid with a heavy vein of coal, and contains some 
of the best buildings within the limits of Wash 
ington county. In 1886 Mr. Willison sustained a 
very heavy loss by fire, his barn and grain being 
utterly destroyed; but he, at once, erected a new 
barn with the best modern improvements, costing 
him over $3,00(1. He deals very extensively in 
stock, having first invested in breeding the Black 
Top Dickson sheep, which has since been his 
favorite breed. He has been very successful in 
this special department of stock raising, and the 
demand for his sheep is greater than the supply. 
He sells at various prices, always realizing a hand- 
some profit from his stock, which is of the finest 
quality, all being registered. In political opinion 
he was a Whig and a Republican, and since the or- 
ganization of the "Prohibition party'' has been 
one of its most ardent devotees, having cast the 
first and only vote in his district. He also favors 
woman's suffrage, and is interested in all the pro 
gressive and educational movements of the day. In 
1851 he united with the Presbyterian Church, and 
twelve years later joined the United Presbyterian 
Society at Canonsburg, with which Mrs. Willison 
is also identified. Their home in Houstonville is 
of the most modern style, lackiug no comfort or 
luxury which a cultured taste can suggest. 



J'iAMES S. McNARY. Of the McNary family 
J in Washington, the first (of whom there is 
j any record) was James, by trade a shoemaker, 
who was born in Scotland about the year 
1711, and, according to tradition, moved with his 
family to the North of Ireland. After sojourning 
there for a time he and his wife emigrated to 
America, bringing with them their four sons and 
one daughter, some of whom had married in Ire 
land. 

In the year 1760 (as records show) James Mc- 
Nary bought a tract of land in York county, Penn., 
in which county he remained for a number of 
years. He was made an elder (as was also his son 
John) in the Seceder Congregation of Guinston, 
one of the oldest congregations of that denomina- 
tion in America. His sons were: John, James, 
Thomas and David; his daughter, Jane, married 
William Robison, and remained for life in York 
county. The son John came to Washington 
county in 1801, and bought the tract of land in 
North Strabane township on which James S. now 
lives, revisited York county in the fall, expecting to 
return with his family in the following spring, but 
died during the winter. All the other sons of 
James McNary also came to Washington county, 
Thomas buying land in North Strabane township; 
James in Chartiers township, and David in Hano 
ver township. Their father came also, ami lived, 
up to the time of his death, with his son, David, 




Irw 



11 §§Pli 






*f^&7 /~i^J <f ' ^'/' ' lS^oZv^S 



WA SH1NG TON COtJN T ) . 



333 



dying ia 1796 at the age of eighty-five years; he 
was buried in the Seceder churchyard near Paris, 
Washington county. 

John McNary, son of the honored old Scotch 
pioneer, James, and grandfather of James S., died 
as already stated in York county, after a visit to 
and a purchase of land in Washington county. 
His family consisted of wife (Esther Bogle, a native 
of Ireland), daughters: Elizabeth (wife of William 
Douglas), Jane (wife of Robert McKibbeu), Mary 
(wife of John McCoy), Margaret (wife of James 
Martin), Esther (wife of Thomas Ewing, and grand 
mother of Judge Ewing, of Pittsburgh), A^nes 
(wife of William Pollock) and Jennet (wife of 
James Marshall); and sons: James, Malcolm, John 
(father of James S.), Thomas and Alexander. 

John McNary, father of subject, in company 
with- his brother Alexander, came into possession 
of the tract of land their father had bought in 
Washington county, and removed to it from York 
COUJlty in 18() - 2. John returned to York county 
and settled up his father's estate there before lo- 
cating permanently in Washington county. The 
other brothers, James and Thomas, and all the sis 
tere, with their husbands, came to Washington 
county except Elizabeth Douglas, who raised her 
family in York county. Jennet Marshall subse- 
quently went to, and raised a family near. Mans 
field, Ohio. After John had closed up his father's 
estate, he came to his farm, and soon after mar- 
ried Jane Hill, who had but recently come from 
Dauphin county with her sister, Mrs. James Thome, 
who had settled on a neighboring farm. After 
their marriage, which occurred on New Year's Day, 
1805, he settled, in company with his brother Alex 
ander, on the farm bought by his father, the same 
on which his son James S. now lives. This farm 
had been patented by James Gott, in 1784. sold by 
him to Samuel Smith, and by Smith to John Mc 
Nary. In a short time Alexander sold his interest 
in the farm to John, and moved to and became 
permanently settled in Jefferson county, Ohio. 

The family of John and Jane (Hill) McNary 
were: sons— William H., John, James S.. Oliver 
R. and Alexander C. ; daughters — Esther, Jane E. 
and Abba Caroline, with the following record: 
William H. [for his record see biography of J. C. 
McNary]. John lived unmarried on the old farm, 
and died April 15, 1881. James S. is the subject 
of this sketch. Esther married Samuel Pollock, 
and their family consisted of Jennie, James, John, 
Samuel (who died in youth), Oliver and Clark; Es- 
ther died November 9, 1890. Jane E. lived all 
her life unmarried at the old home, and died Oc- 
tober 26, 1883. Oliver married Ellen Grove, and 
their family were: Tillie, married to Rev. W. C. 
Williamson, D. D., now pastor of the U. P. Con- 
gregation at Keokuk, Iowa; Ella, married to R. L. 
Munce, Esq. , of Washington county, Penn. ; Net- 



tie; Hettie; James (deceased) and Clarkson, who 
is surgeon in the Military National Home at Leav- 
enworth, Kans. (Oliver McNary was major in the ' 
army during the Rebellion, and a prisoner of war 
in the prison pens of Charleston and other places, 
suffering great privation and cruelty, but survived 
to get home, and is now living in Leavenworth, 
Kans.). Alexander C. McNary married Maude Burk- 
hart, and their children were: daughters — Loreua, 
Ida, Maude and Grace; sons — Eugene, John and 
Clarence. Alexander McNary died October 18, 
1886. Abba Caroline, the youngest child of John 
and Jane McNary, died unmarried at the age of 
nineteen years. 

Before leaving the biography of John and Jane 
McNary we will refer briefly to their early farm 
life, as it contrasts strongly witli that of the pres- 
ent day, and serves to illustrate the noble charac- 
ter of those early pioneers. They were 200 miles 
from where supplies -such as iron, salt, spices or 
clothing — could be bought, and such of these things 
as they did get thej carried on horseback over a 
roadless mountain country. They would slaughter 
their meat, freeze it, do up the fall work, and start 
east for salt and other necessaries which the farm 
would not produce. Their clothing was all made 
by band at home. From a few native sheep the 
wool was shorn, then washed, picked, carded, spun 
and woven, all in their little cabin home. The flax 
for their linen was grown on the farm, pulled, 
spread out to bleach, then broken in a flax ' ' break," 
scutched, spun and woven, all by hand — tools of 
the most primitive character. In some parts of 
this work neighbors would join in a "frolic," and 
in this consisted the amusements of those days. 
A " fulling frolic" was an event that might be of 
interest briefly to describe. The neighbors would 
all be invited for a certain evening, a room having 
the closest laid floor would be selected, then a num- 
ber of chairs would be placed in a circle around 
the room and tied together. The young men, in 
their bare feet, and with their pants rolled up to 
the knees, would occupy the chairs; the web of lin 
sey, or blankets, would be placed on the floor within 
the circle, and the " machine " was then ready to 
be set going. The ladies warmed and applied the 
soapsuds, and the boys would kick the fabric back- 
ward and forward until it was pronounced properly- 
fulled. If the kicking should at any time lag, anil 
it was thought necessary to make it more lively, it 
was only necessary to raise the temperature of the 
soapsuds a few degrees above standard heat. Such 
was a primitive fulling mill. The grain was all 
taken to a mill on horseback, and ground in a horse 
mill, the mill being operated by a tramp-wheel, on 
which was put the horse that carried the grain to 
mill. The most primitive of all was what was 
known as the "sweep'' mill, but that gave way in 
course of time to the less cumbersome "tramp"- 



334 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



wheel process. The tramp wheel was about twenty 
tive feet in diameter, standing at an angle, the 
horse's weight on one side causing it to revolve, the 
horse walking as the wheel passed from under him. 
These mills bad patrons living ten or more miles 
away, who had to travel that distance, then wait 
their turn at the mill, do their own grinding and 
gel home, perhaps, the second day afterward. The 
tools used for farming purposes were principally 
made by the farmers themselves, even harness 
for their horses were manufactured out of the hark 
of trees, or hickory withes. Only the point and 
shear of the plows wore made of iron; wooden 
mouldboards were made from split, twisty oak; 
shovels, forks, harrows, threshes all of wood; 
latches, hinges and nails (used for building) —all 
made by hand. Such was farm life when young 
James S. , the subject of this sketch, was ahoy. 
But with all these difficulties in their way in pro- 
viding for bodily comfort, they did not forget the 
after part — the mind and soul. John McNary 
was active in establishing schools for the children, 
ami church privileges for all. One of the early 
members of Chartiers Seceder Church, situated 
live miles distant, he and his family were constant 
attendants, riding horseback or walking, and often 
sitting in the church through long winter days 
with no fire, and walls not built close enough to 
keep out the winter blasts —manifesting a love of 
God and for His house, and a devotion to the prin- 
ciples of their holy religion that the church mem- 
bers of these favored days would do well to emulate. 
He was early elected an elder, and served with 
honor t hrough life. 

Mr. McNary lived to improve his farm; build 
one of the first brick farm mansions in the vicinity; 
establish one of the first Merino flocks of sheep, 
the sheep that made Washington famous as the 
first and best tine woo! producing county in 
America; lived to see his family grow up in honor 
around him, and died February 11, 1844. Jane, 
his wife, survived him many years as the honored 
head of the family. Being a woman of more than 
ordinary physical and mental development, she de- 
serves special mention for her many excellent (juali 
tics. In the early struggles for the support of her 
family she did her part. After the breakfast dishes 
were set aside she would carry her infant (James 
S. ) tn the field, lay him in the fence corner, and 
take her place with the reapers, keeping her land 
up with the best of them until the noon hour, when 
she would repair to the house and .bring out the 
meal to the tield, where dinner was generally eaten, 
then muse her babe, set the dfthes aside, and take 
up her sickle again. And t his was not one day's 
experience, but for days and even years. Her dis- 
position was ever happy and cheerful. A beautiful 
singer, she would till her home with good cheer 

and hospitality, ami even to old age Grandmother 



McNary seemed supremely cheerful, happy and 
kind, enjoying with a relish the fun and enjoyment 
of children and grandchildren, who often and 
gladly assembled to enjoy the loving hospitality 
and tender, a ffcctionate greeting ever sure to be en- 
joyed at her home. She died January 11, 1867, 
at the good old age of eighty-seven years. 

Before leaving this old home, which was a typo 
cil many others in those primitive times, whose lot 
would seem to be so hard and almost void of com- 
fort, we would record that in the midst of all there 
was a happiness and enjoyment, a real pleasure 
in their busy lives, of which the rich and idle in 
homes of luxury never know. No jealousies were 
there to rankle, no envy to corrode; no idle hours 
to drag their weary blighting miasma over the life 
— their very cares were their comforts, and life 
was a blessing because it was tilled to the brim 
with doing good and enjoying it. 

The above record gives some idea of the scenes 
and circumstances surrounding the subject of this 
sketch in his early life; and of the mother that nur- 
tured and trainedhim — all favorable to the develop 
ment of a vigorous, healthy, mental, mora! and 
physical; and such was the nature of James S. Mc- 
Nary. In strength of character, integrity of pur 
pose, industry, hospitality and vigor of body and 
mind, his ''make up," so to speak, was of a nature 
to prove the value of early training and good intlu 
euce. Had he chosen a public profession, he would 
have taken a front rank, and become the leader of 
thought and progress among men; but he chose — 
partly from the need of his services at home, and 
partly from native taste, being rather of a retiring 
disposition — the life of a farmer, a calling as honor 
able as that of the legislator, scientist, or military 
hero, but one that does not usually share with 
them in public applause His renown is in richer 
fields and liner flocks. His benefactions are the 
making of two blades of grass grow where but 
one grew before. 

In person Mr. McNary was in his younger days 
tall and muscular; in disposition cheerful and 
happy. In vigor of constitution he had few equals; 
in judgment, calm, cautious, but in the end de- 
cided, the wisdom of his council was sought far 
and wide. In industry and perseverance he 
was proverbial. He never surrendered to diffi- 
culties nor was faint-hearted when trials came. A 
little incident illustrative of his character in th is 
regard might be admissible here. One day, when 
he was eighty years old, he was standing in the 
hind end of his wagon, when the horse, by a cpiick 
movement forward, threw him out backward, on 
the hard street, his head striking on a stone, which 
cut a gash on the side of his head, rendering him in- 
sensible for the time. He was assisted into an 
office near by, and a conch made for him to lie on 
while his wound was being sewed up. When all 



WASHINGTON COt \ T) 



335 



was ready be was told to lie down, but in reply be 
simply told him to go "on with th<»ir sewing."' 
" Nh," said the others, "lie down on the lounge." 
"No." Still they insisted until, becoming quite 
impatient, be said: "go on with your sewing, 1 
ain't the lying kind." And truly it may be said of 
him that in all his long life lie was not one of the 
lying kind. "Doing everything right" was his 
motto; doing it the easy way and doing it right 
was his ingenuity. And being of more than 
ordinary strength of body and muscle, coupled with 
a thoughtful and ingenious mind, he could accom- 
plish more in a day in advancing farm work than 
was usual among men. When it came to doing 
hard work on the farm he acknowledged no supe 
rior, if any equal. When he was in the prime ol 
manhood the grain was cut with the cradle; the 
grass cut with the scythe; hay pitched with a fork, 
in each case bodily strength and muscle being 
necessary to the utmost limit, and for that ver) 
reason he seemed to delight in doing them and doing 

more than anybody else i Id Mr. McNary was 

married on the second Tuesday of October, 1841, 
to Rachel' Anderson, who with an infant son died 
August 3, 1842, and they were buried in the same 
grave. He never again married. He lived for 
many years on his "Rich Hill farm in South 
Strabane township, until he purchased the old John 
McNary homestead where he has since lived. He 
delights in keeping his friends about him, and 
when any one of them seems to need a home, his 
is open to them. If ho did not raise a family of 
his own, he helped to raise those of others, with a 
father's devotion and care. Early in life he joined 
Ohartiers U. P. Church, and has been a member 
of same all his life, and if the record were known 
he has perhaps spent as many days upon the pub 
lie ministry in that congregation as any member 
in it. besides contributing as much to its support. 
He on one occasion, as a member of the board of 
trustees, while discussing the question of raising 
and paying the pastor's salary, objected to the 
practice then almost universal of paying when 
they might have the money, saying to the board: 
"Pay it when it is due; if you have not got the 
money in the treasury, come to me and get it. " 
And true to his promise, he made up what was 
necessary and not in the treasury, on the day of 
each quarter out of his own pocket when due, the 
result being that the old congregation for almost 
the first time paid the salary promptly when due, 
until the habit of doing so became formed, ami is 
practiced faithfully (to its honor be it said) to the 
present day. 

In politics Mr. McNary was originally an Anti 
slavery Whig; was on the ground floor in the Re 
publican party; rejoiced in the downfall of Ameri 
can slavery, and the overthrow of the Rebellion, 
He has always been a consistent temperance man, 



and an earnest advocate of all moral reforms. He 
was one of the incorporators of the Oak Spring 
Cemetery Company, and helped by his counsel to 

( \ert the old planless, neglected, burying 

place into one of the neatest, most artistic and 
worthy memorial grounds in the county. He was 
a stockholder in the Canonsburg National Bank, 
also of the Citizens Bank (limited), in that 
borough, and of the Western Pennsylvania Agri 
cultural Association, thereby showing his public 
spirit and interest in all the movements tending to 
promote and develop the resources of the county. 
He was one of the organizing members of the 
National Delaine Sheep Breeders Association, and 
now owns one of the best bred (locks of Delaine 
sheep in the United States, never having been 
beaten in any fair for the best Delaine wool. And 
now in his hospitable home, at (he age of eighty 
three years, he is living with an active interest in 
the welfare of friends and church and country, and 
awaiting the reward promised the faithful in the 

H olid to come. 



JC MoNARY, Canonsburg. W. H. McNary, 
the eldest son of John McNary, of North 
' Strabane township, was born November 26, 
1805, lb- received his education in a log 
school house under the tuition of "old Master 
Howe" (as he was called), who taught for twenty 

liv asecutive years in the same place, and he 

was the only teacher William had. But, being a 
devoted reader, and, withal, an apt scholar, he se- 
cured an education thai enabled him to take his 
place among his fellow men as a leader of thought, 
always able to give a reason for the faith he pro 
fessed in an intelligent 'and easy manner. 

On February '_'<>, 1828, he married Margaret 
Murray, by which union there were twelve children, 
of whom the following is a brief record; Mary died 
at the age of four years. John ('. is the subject of 
this sketch. Martha .lane married Robert Russel, 
Esq., of Chartiers township, who was a leading 
farmer, a progressive stock breeder, and an elder 
in Chartiers U. P. Church, and is now deceased. 
George died at the age of five years. Margaretta 
died when twenty one years old. , lames W. married 
Hettie Williamson, a minister in the Presbyterian 
Church, and I hey settled at Milwaukee, Wis.; they 
have three children: Nellie, Willie and Foster. 
William T. married Elizabeth Graham; their chil- 
dren; Lida, Willie, Nora, Graham, Margaretta, 
George and John ; he is a minister in the United 
Presbyterian Church, and settled at Tarkio, Mo.; 
had the degree of D. D. conferred on him, and is 
president of the board of trustees of Tarkio Col 
lege; was also a colonel in the army during the 
Civil war. Anna Maria married Rev. E. G. Me 
Kinley, a Presbyterian minister, and they settled 



336 



WASHINGTON COUX T Y. 



at Bartow, Fla. ; their children: Russel, Gretta 
and Louise. Thomas M. lives with his Uncle James 
in North Strabane township. Oliver died at the 
age of twelve years. Carrie (twin of Emma) mar- 
ried Rev. J. Buff Jackson, a minister in the United 
Presbyterian Church, and they settled at Morning 
Sun, Iowa; their children: Bessie, William, Retta, 
John, Russel (twin, deceased in infancy), Reed 
(twin; and Martha. Emma (twin of Carrie) died 
at sixteeu years of age. These are the children 
and grandchildren of V? . H. McNary. 

After the marriage of William they lived for three 
years on the farm known as the ''Rich Hill farm,'' in 
South Strabane township; then purchased and 
moved to the McNary homestead, known as the 
"Fine View farm." in Chartiers township. He 
was an industrious, devoted farmer, and made the 
breeding of fine Merino sheep a specialty in his 
farming operations, in which he was successful in 
having one of the best tloeks in the county. He 
was a very zealous friend of education, and spared 
neither labor nor expense in securing for his fam- 
ily the best of school privileges. He was for 
thirty years an elder in Chartiers Seceder (later the 
United Presbyterian) Church, a leader in church 
work, and was often chosen to represent the con- 
gregation in the higher courts of the church. He 
was conspicuous as one of the original anti slavery 
men of the country. He believed slavery to be a 
irrime agaiust God and man alike, and an injury to 
master and slave as well — a disgrace to our fair 
nation, and a blight and injury to the county and 
State where it existed. He was very bold and fear- 
less, even at the risk of bodily harm, in denounc 
ing and opposing it iu those dark times, when 
slavery was defended in Congress by the bludgeon, 
and the slave hunter in northern States by Federal 
law. He sheltered and assisted therunaway, when 
to do so meant fine and imprisonment by the laws 
of the country. He was present and active at the 
meeting in Pittsburgh where the Republican party 
was born, and lived to see the triumph of the prin- 
ciples he so long defended in the overthrow of 
slavery and the enfranchisement of the colored 
race. He was also an earnest advocate of temper 
ance; was one of the first farmers, where he lived, 
to oppose and abandon the practice of the constant 
use of liquor in the harvest fields and gathering of 
neighbors for the assistance of one another. On 
questions of right and wrong lie was fearless and 
uncompromising — he would denounce evil and evil- 
doers with a severity which perhaps at times would 
do no good, but rather made him enemies at. the 
time. Yet, withal, he was one of the kindest of 
men; no appeal for help from the needy was ever 
unheeded, nor any sent hungry away from his 
door, his house being proverbial for its hospitality 
to neighbor, friend or stranger alike. In 1 801 he 
left the farm, moving to ( 'anonsburg, and there — 



busy as ever with his lots and houses — his pastime 
and pleasure was to be doiug something. He 
could not be idle; never was known to sit and 
while away the time aimlessly. Although reading 
was part of his industry, one seldom saw him 
without book or paper in his hand when at rest in 
his home. He died September 10, 1877, more 
honored in his death than in his life by all who 
knew him for his many sterling qualities of head 
and heart. His wife Margaret survived him but a 
few years. She was a lovely woman, beloved by 
everybody; of a meek and quiet spirit, a striking 
contrast to the restless energy of her husband, 
and yet seeming to honor him the more for what 
she termed his " fuss and energy.'' 

John C. McNary, the subject proper of this 
sketch, the oldest son of William and Margaret 
McNary, was born on the Rich Hill farm in South 
Strabane township, July 30, 1830. He passed all 
his early life on the farm with his father in Char- 
tiers township, to which the latter moved in 1832. 
His privilege was to attend one of the best com- 
mon schools of the county, which became so 
through the energy and love of education of his 
father, and a few other worthy patrons whom we 
would take a pleasure in naming: They were John 
Hays, John Haft,Samuel Gri frith. George Barnet and 
others, who from time to time came into the dis- 
trict. On October 20, 1859, J. C. McNary was 
married to Mary Jane Rankin, of Mercersburg, 
Perm., who died June 28, 1866, aged thirty seven 
years. Her six children (there being two pairs of 
twins among them) all died in infancy. Mr. Mc- 
Nary afterward married, May 20, 1868, Abba T. 
Pollock, and their children were Mary Ellen, Mat 
tie J. R. , James T., William Houston, John 
Thome, and Nanuie Jeunett. Of these, Mary El 
len married George Paxton, January 20, 1892, 
and settled on a farm near Houstonville, in Char- 
tiers township; Mattie J. R. died September 20, 
1S92, of typhoid fever, at her father's home in 
Cauonsburg, at the age of twenty one years; James 
T. died March 3(1, 1880, of inflammatory rheuma 
tism; William H.. John T. and Nannie J. are all 
at home with their parents, and attending school. 
Our subject early united with the U. P. Church of 
Chartiers, of which he was elected an elder. On 
the organization of a congregation in Houstonville, 
he became a member there, as he felt it his duty 
to take his place where he was most needed. He 
remained to see the young congregation well es- 
tablished; and when he moved to Canonsburg (in 
1892) he again united with old Chartiers, the 
church of his father. Politically, Mr. McNary is 
an anti-saloon Republican — an ardent Protection 
ist — and as these two great principles are not em- 
bodied in any one party just at the present day, 
he is not a very ardent party man, but hopes for 
the day when, like the revolution of 1856, good 



WASHINGTON COU.\ D 



337 



men all over the country will again unite, inde- 
pendent of old party trammel, in defense of all true 
reform. Before the war be was a brigadier gen- 
eral in tbe State Guards, and at times is called 
"General." For twenty consecutive years, while 
in the township, he was justice of the peace, and 
is on that account also familiarly called " squire." 
He has been entrusted with the settlement of very ' 
many estates, and always took an active part in all 
local improvements. He is one of the incorpor- j 
ators of Oak Spring Cemetery Co . and of Western 
Penn. Agricultural Association. He was one of the 
original breeders of the National Delaine sheep, 
and the first man to ever adopt and advertise a 
flock with the title, '• The Delaine Merino." He 
is president of the Citizens Bank (limited), Can- 
ousburg, in which borough he is now living, for the 
purpose of securing better school privileges for 
his family, and to be near his other business inter- 
eats, as well as to escape the care and labor of 
farm life, believing that when all the rest do as 
much hard work as he has, it will be all done: and 
also to be near to enjoy the religious privileges of 
God's house, and attend all the meetings for 
prayer and religious conference, believing them to 
be our richest inheritance in this famed land 

[For the ancestry of W. II. McNary, father oi J, < * 
see biography of James B, McNary, 



JAMES HARVEY COLEMAN, an energetic, 
successful business man, and a representa- 
tive of one of the oldest families of Canons- 
burg, is a son of James Coleman, and a 
grandson of Christopher Coleman. 
Christopher Coleman was born in Germany, im 
migrating to America during the last century. He 
was married to a native of New Jersey, who died 
in Washington county. He died about the year 
1819, in Canonsburg, leaving the following named 
sons: William, Jacob, James, David and Simp- 
son, some of whom were soldiers in the war of 
1812. James Coleman was born in eastern Penn 
sylvania, and learned the trade of cooper, which 
he followed at Canonsburg for over fifty years. 
He was united in marriage with Jane, daughter of 
William Baxter, of Washington county. William 
Baxter was a native of Ireland, and firbt settled in 
Westmoreland county, Penn., afterward moving to 
Washington county. He was married to Jane 
Sealon, and passed the remainder of his life at 
Canonsburg, dying in 1819. His wife died in 
1840, leaving the following children: Robert, 
William, Joseph, James, Jane and three other 
daughters, all of whom are now deceased. 

James and Jane (Baxter) Coleman made a per 
manent home near Canonsburg:, where the former 
died in 1871. at the age of eighty years, and the 
latter ten years later, aged eighty-two. Their 



children were William (deceased, who was a resident 
of California, and member of the Senate of that 
State). David (who served in the Eighth Missouri 
Regiment as adjutant, then as colonel, coming 
home as brigadier general, after participating in 
twenty-two battles; he was appointed marshal of 
St. Louis), John P. (deceased colonel of the Thir- 
teenth Missouri Infantry; served in the Civil war, 
but was not wounded). James Harvey (subject of 
our sketch), Joseph C. (served in an Ohio regi 
rneut, now a printer at Columbus, Ohio), Henry 
M. (for over thirty live years a resident of Call 
fornia), Mary Jane (deceased in infancy), Samuel 
(a druggist, captain of the Thirteenth Missouri 
Infantry), Frank (lieutenant of Company D, Tenth 
Pennsylvania Reserves), A. A. (a member of the 
One Hundred and Fortieth P. V. I.I, and an un 
named infant. Of the children who survived in 
fancy, all lived to be over thirty years of age before 
any death occurred among them. 

James Harvey Coleman was born February 28, 
1829, near Canonsburg, and was reared to man 
hood in the vicinity. He learned the trade of 
cooper, and followed it fourteen years. On De- 
cember 12, 1854, he and his brother Samuel 
opened a drug and book store at Canonsburg. In 
1857 he was married to Miss May Belle, daughter 
of Robert White, of North Strabane township, 
whose parents were natives of Ireland. Robert 
White was formerly a cooper, and afterward fol- 
lowed farming. He was married to Ruth Chub- 
bic, of North Strabane township, and reared a 
large family, of whom eight are now living, the 
four daughters living in this county. To the 
union of James Harvey and May Belle (White) 
Coleman the following named children were born: 
Addie Jean (wife of A. C. Bane, of Pittsburgh. 
Penn.), Ella Mary and Dora (both of whom are 
living at home), Edward White (a druggist of 
Pittsburgh, Penn.), George Curtis (living in Cali- 
fornia), Charles (was employed as a tailor for four 
years, then opened business for himself at Canons- 
burg), Robert and John, the latter two being de 
ceased. Mr. and Mrs. Coleman have always 
resided at Canonsburg, and in religious faith the 
family are among the early Presbyterians of the 
county. In politics he was originally a Whig, 
and in 1856 became a worker for the Republican 
party; he has served his constituents as treasurer 
of Canonsburg, and school director. 



dlOHN M. GRABLE is a native of Washington 
county. Penn., born in Fallowfield township 
] January 2, 1846, a son of Joel, who was a 
son of John, who was a son of John. 
John Grable, his great-grandfather, was born in 
Washington county, Md. , in 1754, and died in 
1785. On December 10, 1779, he was married to 



338 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Salome Hickman, and by ber had four children, 
viz. : Jonathan, Jacob, John and Joseph. The 
mother of this family died in 1 S T> 4 ; she and her 
husband lived in Washington county, Pennsylvania. 
John Grable, grandfather of John M., was born 
in Chester county, Penn., in 17JI7, and died inl822. 
He was by trade a tanner, in connection with 
which he followed fanning, being owner of 401) 
acres of land which had been patented by his 
father under a Virginia grant, and repatented 
since the war. He married Miss Mary Carson, a 
native of Washington county, and four children 
were born to them: Joel, Jerome, Mary Ann and 
Julia (married to John McCormick, a farmer of 
Washington county). Jonathan Grable, a brother 
of John, was a major in the war of 1812. 

Joel Grable, father of John M. . was born in 
1819 in Fallowtield township, Washington Co., 
Penn., where all Ij is school days were passed. 
In 1842 he married Miss Maria, daughter of John 
Mitchell, a Washington county farmer, and two 
sons and five daughters blessed their union, viz. : 
John M., Julian, Jane, Zidaua, Josephine, Box- 
anna and Carrie B., the last three named being 
now deceased. Julian married Angeline, daughter 
of Henry Fry, a well-known farmer of this county. 
and two sons and one daughter came by this mar- 
riage, all living at the home place with Joel Gra- 
ble, whose wife had passed away in 1888. The 
farm comprises 150 acres of improved laud, and 
the family own 443 acres further down the river. 
Joel Grable has served his township in various 
offices of trust, and was a justice of the peace 
eight years. 

John M. Grable attended the common schools 
of the district, and worked on the home farm un- 
til he came of age. He then embarked in the in- 
surance business, as solicitor for A. C. Sampson, of 
Mouongahela City, with whom he remained some 
years; then moved to York county, same State, 
where he conducted an agency in the same line of 
business. Returning to Washington county, he 
started a grocery store at Bentleyville, which he 
carried on for some years; then moved into Mo 
inMigabela City and opened an insurance office, 
where he has built up a satisfactory and safe busi- 
ness in both fire and life insurance. On November 
25, 1875, Mr. Grable was married to Margaret. 
daughter of William H. Jones (of whom special 
mention is here made). They have no children. 
In politics our subject is a Democrat, and has for 
many years taken an active interest in the affairs 
of his party. He has served as mayor of Monon 
^ahela City several terms. 

William H. Jones, one of the oldest residents of 
Monongahela City, was born October 1<>, 1809, in 
Somerset township, Washington Co., Penn. His 
father. William Jones, was born in Baltimore 
county, Md., in 1763, a son of a resident of the 



same State, who was a sailor by occupation and 
was lost at sea; his children were Mary (Mrs. 
Joseph Alexander) and William. After the death, 
by drowning, of her husband, Mrs. Jones married 
a Mr. Woods, by whom she had two children. 
Eliza and John; this husband dying, she married, 
for her third husband, a Mr. Morton. William 
Jones was reared in his native county, and learned 
the trade of blacksmith, which he followed for a 
time in the town of Harper's Ferry. He married 
Elizabeth McClelland, and to this union were born 
children as follows: John, Elijah, Ruth, Delilah 
(married to Rev. James Mills), Jesse Samuel, Re- 
becca (married to Andrew Mills), Rosanna F. H. 
(Mrs. Williams), Elizabeth (Mrs. James McCan- 
ley), Ann (Mrs. John Hess) and William H. The 
father of this family came to Washington county 
prior to 1700, and settled on a partly improved 
farm of 350 acres in Somerset township, which 
he had purchased. This property he improved, at 
the same time carrying on a blacksmith shop, 
where, during the " Whiskey Rebellion," he shod 
the horses of the cavalry that were sent to suppress 
the rising. He died in 1863, at the patriarchal 
age of one hundred years, lacking twenty days. Of 
the M. E. Church he was long a member, and Was 
frequently elected to office in the same, but whilst 
truly loyal to his own particular persuasion, he 
contributed freely of his means to all churches. 
" He was strictly temperate in all things, of a 
quiet disposition, calm in judgment, firm in prin- 
ciple, inflexible in the performance of all his 
duties to God and to man as was given him to see 
right.'' 

William H. Jones received his education at the 
subscription schools of the neighborhood of his 
birthplace, and as soon as he wasold enough com- 
menced working on his father's farm, on which lie 
lived and labored until 1886, when he came to 
Monongahela City, where he has since had his 
home. On May 1, 18 — , he was married to Sarah, 
daughter of John Fulmer, of Allegheny county, 
Penn., and the issue of this union are the follow 
ing named children: Leonidas, William, Mary 
(Mrs. William Patton), Kate (Mr. John K. Me 
Millan), Margaret (Mrs. John M. Grable), Albeit 
S., Rose, Frank, Flora, and John S. Mr. Jones 
is a member of the M. E. Church, in which he held 
various offices while residing in Somerset township, 
and he is now a trustee of the church in Mononga 
hela City. Politically, he was a Whig originally, 
and since the formation of the party he has been a 

■ stanch Republican. Of the school board of Som 
erset township he was an enthusiastic member. 

j Up to within the past few years Mr. Jones was act 
ively engaged in farming pursuits, in which he 
realized a comfortable competence, and now he is 
living retired in the enjoyment of peace and 
(piiei ude, 



UASHIXGTON COUN T) 



339 



JjOHN C. SLOAN. The most successful men 
in the arena of life are not usually those who 
) have been reared in the lap of luxury and 
idleness, but are men who have braved the 
bitter storms of hardship and poverty, hewing 
their way through every difficulty to positions of 
honor and prominence. Among the few who have 
thus risen from the ranks to places of recognized 
power and leadership, the Sloan family are most 
conspicuous. 

•lames Sloan was born in 1776, iu County Ty- 
rone, Ireland, and when a young man was married 
to Martha Sloan, who was born in 1779, also a na- 
tive of that county. They were distant relatives, 
many of the early Sloan family having settled in 
County Tyrone years before. Mr. and Mrs. Sloan 
rented a farm of thirty acres, where he became a 
prosperous fanner, but the tenant system of Ire- 
land contained many features which no high spir- 
ited man could brook with patience. When James 
Sloan first entered the presence of his landlord, he 
was required to take off his hat and place it under 
his arm. He obeyed, but inwardlv vowed that 
never again would he submit to such an order. To 
quote his own words: "I am willing to remove my 
hat to superior worth, goodness or mental quali- 
ties, but not to a man whose sole distinction is 
his riches." With true Irish independence, James 
Sloan sold his lease, which was valuable, inasmuch 
as he was able to employ workmen, while his own 
time was occupied in attending markets. Deter- 
mined to seek a home where none could force his 
fealty or homage, with his wife, her mother, and 
two childreu (Jane and John), he set sail from Bel 
fast, bidding farewell to one little grave on the 
soil of old Erin. They touched at Liverpool, and 
after a six-weeks' voyage arrived at New York. 
During the trip so fierce a storm arose that the 
hatches of the vessel had to be battened down, con- 
fining the passengers below for twenty four hours. 
In the meantime a sailor was washed overboard, 
but was rescued by a comrade. The elder passen 
gers were troubled with sea-sickness, but the chil- 
dren were well, both crew and passengers finally 
arriving in New York, in the summer of 1804. 

The Sloans stopped two weeks with friends, and 
recruited from the long voyage, then proceeded on 
their journey, whither, they scarcely knew, but 
finally paused at Gettysburg, Penn., where they 
secured a vacant house; the wife and her mother 
then began to mend their clothing and clean the 
household effects. It was harvest time, aud for 
three weeks Mr. Sloan assisted the farmer who 
owned the house. He then secured a horse and 
cart, packed the household goods, and with the 
family journeyed westward to Washington county, 
Penn., where his wife had relatives. A month 
later they arrived in Hopewell township, this coun- 
ty, and remained for a time on the farm now owned 



by James Maxwell, then the home of an aunt of 
Mrs. Sloan. On this farm Robert was born Au- 
gust 8, 180 4. Mr. Sloan had obtained a good sum 
of money from the sale of his property in Ireland, 
part of which he invested in the farm of seventy - 
five acres now occupied by his son, reserving the 
remainder for other uses. This land was a portion 
of the ")00-acre tract granted to Col. Chambers, in 
consideration of his services in the Revolutionary 
war. A house (the first built of hewn logs) was 
then erected upon the farm (being considered a 
very luxurious dwelling in those da_\s), and new 
settlers beginning to arrive, Mr. and Mis. Sloan 
were found congenial associates in t heir new home. 
They had both united with the Presbyterian Church 
in Ireland, and brought their letters with them, 
which they placed in the Church at Upper Buffalo. 
After coining to this county, the following chit 
dren were added to the family circle: Robert, 
William, Mary Ann, Margaret, James, Eliza, Mar- 
tha, one deceased in infancy and John C. (whose 
name opens this sketch). The father voted the 
Democratic ticket until 1835, when he joined the 
Whig party. He died in September, 1851, in his 
sixty-fourth year; his widow reached her eighty - 
fifth birthday, and passed away August 18, 1865. 
Her mother, who had crossed the ocean with her 
children, lived with a bachelor son in Cross Creek 
township, this county, until she was one hundred 
years of age. She then came to live with her 
grandson, John O, where she awaited the final 
call, living over again the happy days of child- 
hood, knowing no care or anxiety, aud finally passed 
away, peacefully as might a child, in her one hun- 
dred and ninth year. 

John C. Sloan was born September 8, 1820, in 
Hopewell township, this county, being nine years 
younger than the other children. He passed his 
boyhood on the home farm, attending the country 
school, of which he retains a vivid recollection, de- 
scribing it as follows: "Built of round logs, the 
crevices chinked with clay; the great fireplace con- 
structed of the same material, with an old- 
fashioned stove, so large that it would hold great 
logs; the seats of hewed slabs without backs, up- 
on which the luckless urchins sat and dangled 
their short legs, which in many cases failed by 
several inches to reach the floor." The first 
teacher, of whom Mr. Sloan has any recollection, 
was Joseph G. Chambers, son of Col. Chambers. 
Joseph G. Chambers was a remarkable man in 
many ways, possessing unusual intelligence; by 
self-exertion he won a place for himself beyond 
the reach of many even at that day. Possessing a 
wonderfully active brain, he prepared a system of 
English spelling; he discarded superfluous letters, 
having published a book to illustrate the plan. 
But his system was not adopted, the educational 
world then having had but little idea of phonic 



340 



WASHINGTON COUNT*! 



orthography, which be was one of the first to ad- 
vocate in America. He was the originator of re 
peating gnus, and attempted to have his invention 
patented, bul their was much delay and trouble 
on the part of the Government. Agents of the 
English Government attempted to get control of 
the invention, offering a large sum of money. 
This fact coming to the knowledge of American 
officials, Alf. Chambers was put under surveillance 
for treason, being saved from harsh dealing only 
by the entreaties of influential friends. In the 
end he met with the fate of many inventors who 
have trusted the American Government for protec- 
tion of genius — his invention went begging for 
recognition. He was a pioneer leader in the now 
modern fields of literature and education, and, 
though not a lawyer, was well versed in legal 
matters, possessing all the legal qualifications of a 
jurist. In character, Mr. Chambers was, when 
necessary, stern and unflinching, in matters of 
principle, withal being kind and affectionate in 
disposition, qualities which are seldom blended in 
one individual. A man of excellent judgment, and 
calm, well-balanced mind, he was frequently called 
upon to settle feuds and differences in his com- 
munity, his decision being accepted as an ulti- 
matum. 

John C. Sloan appreciated the advantages he 
enjoyed under the tutelage of so intellectual and 
cultured a professor, proving himself an apt pupil, 
and learning invaluable lessons which have greatly 
influenced his later life. Mr. Sloan's parents 
plauned to give him a classical education as a 
preparation for professional life, and to that end 
he was sent, at the age of thirteen years, to an 
academy at Florence, this county. He remained 
there eighteen months, beginning a course in Latin 
literature, but was then obliged to return home 
and take charge of the farm, leaving his education 
somewhat deficient. He afterward attended Frank- 
fort Academy one winter, and has since supple- 
mented his early training with an extensive course 
of reading and general information, gleaned from 
active intercourse with business men. On October 
1(5, 1855, he was united in marriage with Miss 
Ann Denny, who was born December 21, 1818, in 
Washington county, Penn., daughter of Robert 
and Lydia (McManus) Denny, old residents of 
Washington county, and to their union five chil 
dren have been born, namely: James S. , Martha 
Jane, Mary M., Robert D. and Lizzie A. Of this 
family the eldest son is married and living in 
Hopewell township; the others are yet residing 
with their parents. 

Mr. Sloan has inherited the characteristic spirit 
of energy and principles of integrity which are 
distinguishing traits of the majority of the Scotch 
Irish race. He lias ever taken an active interest 
in political matters, being among the first to aid 



any progressive movement. In earlier life he was 
and Old line Whig, and upon the organization of 
the Republican party he became an active worker 
in its ranks. In 1855 he was the first represent- 
ative elected on that ticket to the General Assembly. 
He was one of the committee on agriculture, also 
on banking, and was instrumental in the passage of 
numerous bills of local interest, transacting a 
large amount of land-office business for his con- 
stituents. The principal act of that session of 
general importance was the sale of the public works, 
in which Mr. Sloan was actively interested. In 
1857 an extra sei-sion of the Legislature was called, 
to consider some method of relieving the great 
financial crisis of that year, and a bill of relief 
was passed, after which the Legislature adjourned. 
To illustrate the financial condition of the country 
at that time, Mr. Sloan was unable to pay his fare 
from Washington to Harrisburg with currency- 
issued by any State bank of Pennsylvania, only 
three of the State banks having withstood the 
crash, and they had no paper in circulation. After 
his term in the Legislature had expired, Mr. Sloan 
determined to retire from public life, declining a 
reuomination as representative, but has continued 
to serve in township and county offices. He has 
hell all of the township offices except that of 
jus! ice of the peace, which he declined. He was 
school director for twenty years, and served as 
director of the County Home for twelve consecutive 
years. He has kept pace with the progressive 
movements of each year, learning the best methods 
and systems of carrying on public work. He has 
visited most of the asylums and almshouses in the 
State, taking a very pardonable pride in the fact 
that Washington county is equal if not superior 
to any other. In his boyhood Mr. Sloan united 
with the Presbyterian Church, in whose teaehingsbe 
was reared to manhood, and with his entire family 
is now connected with the Old Presbyterian 
Church at Buffalo. He was for many years a 
member of the board of trustees, also taking a 
deep interest in the Sabbath school, where he has 
long taught an interesting Bible class. 



JAMES PATTERSON SAYER, whose name 
and worth will long be remembered in Wash 
ington county, throughout the length and 
breadth of which he was known and respected, 
was a native of the Keystone State, born in the 
city of Allegheny, August 6, 1845. 

He was the eldest son of Henry A. Sayer. who 
was an Englishman by birth, and was the nine 
teeuth sou in a family of twenty-four children- 
full brothers aud sisters. Henry A. crossed the 
great waters of the Atlantic, to make a new home on 
American soil, and whether infatuated with the 
an, or not. the greater part of his life was spent 





t-C^~J 



i C TUtZC^^ 



WASHIXinoX COUNTY. 



343 



on the waters of our most navigable rivers, acting 
in the capacity of steward. In form he was tall 
and slender; iij religion he was a Protestant, wor- 
shiping with the Methodist Episcopal denomina- 
tion. At the age of thirty he was married in Al- 
legheny to Miss Margaret Boyd Patterson, and to 
them three children were given, viz. : Eliza E., 
James P. and Charles B. The duty of rearing 
these children devolved largely upon the mother, 
the father being absent from home much of the 
time. The parents resided in the town in which 
they were married until 1804, when the mother 
died and was buried in the Allegheny cemetery, 
where in the year 1S88 kind friends conveyed the 
remains of the father, and laid them side by side 
with those of his beloved wife, there to repose un- 
til the resurrection morn. 

James P. Saver in his childhood was considered 
rather delicate, and in view of the frequent attacks 
of disease, the family physician advised that he be 
sent to the country. Accordingly, when he was 
four years old his aunt Lizzie Snodgrass took him 
to their home three miles southwest of Washing 
ton, Penn. , where he soon outgrew the malady, 
and developed into the robust boy that he was. 
While it can be truthfully said of these foster 
parents that no child received more care and affec- 
tion than they bestowed upon young Sayer, it can 
be added that few children were more obedient, 
loving and kind than was he to them. The following 
incident relative to the first money he earned may 
be here related: His uncle owned an interest in a 
mill, and consequently there was a considerable 
amount of hauling or teaming, to do which the 
uncle kept four horses. One morning, when " Jem- 
mie" (as they lovingly called him) was about ten 
years old, his uncle offered to advance him 10 cents 
if he would groom two of the horses, and the lad 
earned his pay so well that he secured a steady 
job; for a long time after it was his business to 
clean two of the horses, while his uncle groomed 
the other two and placed the harness on all four, 
the one dime paying for all. At the age of twelve 
years he was placed on a two-horse wagon, and for 
two or more years he hauled the coal with which 
to run the mill. 

James P. Sayer received a good commou school 
education, and in his seventeenth year (while a 
student at Washington College) he enlisted in the 
war of the Rebellion, entering the service as a cor- 
poral in 1862. He went out with the One Hun 
dred and Fortieth Regiment Pennsylvania Volun- 
teers, Company C, of which the lamented David 
Acheson. who was killed at Gettysburg, was cap 
tain. He was discharged with the rank of ser- 
geant, October 25. 1864, on account of wounds 
received in action. In May, 1863, at Chancellors 
ville, he was one of the few who, at the call of Gen. 
Hancock, volunteered to remove a battery, which 



had been a special mark of the enemy, and from 
which almost all the horses had been shot away. 
It was a brave deed, and was done by courageous 
men. At Gettysburg Sergt. Sayer was terribly 
wounded, receiving two shots in the right arm, 
one in the left shoulder, and one in the leg, which 
latter finally led, twelve years later, to the ampu 
tation of that limb. From the date he received 
these wounds he was a great sufferer, compelled 
to go on crutches, and his friends would naturally 
suggest that ho should have the leg amputated. 
But he was a man who seldom changed his plans 
after having come to a decision, and his reply to 
such suggestions invariably was that when it (his 
limb) went, he would go with it. Poor fellow, 
life's prospects did not promise for him much 
pleasure; indeed, regarding death as only a sweet 
sleep, he manifested little concern as to whether 
he lived or died. 

After his return home from the war Mr. Sayer 
taught school for a time at Point Lookout, Amity, 
and at Baker's school house, both in this county, 
and for two years he pursued the study of law un 
der the direction of E. M. Sayer, of Waynesburg, 
completing his course with Alex. Wilson, of the 
Washington bar, and was admitted to practice 
December 13, 1869. As a lawyer he was careful, 
industrious and honest, for which and other reasons 
he was successful, securing the confidence and 
respect of the people, his brother practitioners 
and the court. And he was not only successful in 
his law practice, but also in his oil ventures, being 
interested with John W. Donnau and others in 
some wells at Coffey's Crossing, which paid him 
handsomely. On August 22, 1879, he was ap 
pointed judge advocate of the staff of Gov. Beaver, 
with the rank of major, serving in that capacity 
five years. Early in the " seventies " he was 
elected by the Republicans to the office of county 
treasurer, and he discharged the duties of that 
position with entire satisfaction to the county and 
credit to himself. The success of the Prohibition 
amendment campaign of 1889, in the county, was 
largely due to the effective work of Mr. Sayer as 
county chairman. His stronghold, however, was 
in the line of memorial and patriotic speeches, 
and he was always in demand wherever there was a 
reunion of old soldiers, or when the season for 
decorating soldiers' graves was celebrated with 
memorial services. 

In October, 1870, Mr. Sayer was married to 
Mary F.. daughter of Isaac Sharp, a well known 
merchant of Washington. Penn., and one child 
came to make bright their home, Mary Lavina 
Boyd Sayer, born September 12, 1876, at present 
a student at East End College for Women, Pitts- 
burgh. Penn. About a year after the birth of the 
daughter, the father was informed that in order 
to preserve his life, amputation of the wounded 



344 



WASHING TON COU.\ T ) '. 



limb was a necessity; and now with more than self 
and former friends to live for he yielded to advice 
and solicitation. His wonderful will power and 
endurance were shown when that operation was 
performed; he made all preparations for it him- 
self, bade his friends "good bye" pleasantly, say- 
ing he would not see them for a day or two, and 
to very few did he tell what was to occur. He 
placed himself on the operating table, refusing to 
take any anaesthetic, and directed the operation 
in a measure himself. 

Just eleven weeks before his death he was 
taken seriously ill while in town, and was at once 
removed to his home, where he grew worse, his 
condition indicating an organic change in progress 
in his brain, the result of wounds received while in 
the service. Thus he lingered with great Buffer- 
ing, which he bore with true Christian fortitude, 
until summoned to his long home by the Angel of 
Death. At rive minutes after S o'clock on the 
evening of Friday, July 22. 1892, in his forty- 
seventh year, he breathed his last, and the spirit 
of a worthy man was borne away. Death had no 
terrors for him, and he passed from things tem- 
poral to things eternal with his hopes firmly anch- 
ored to the Rock of Ages. His wife and daugh- 
ter, and also a brother — Charles, in one of the 
Government departments at Washington, D. C — 
and a sister — Eliza, the wife of Rev. Edwin R. 
Jones, a M. E. minister, in Ohio — survive him. 
Maj. Sayer had resided in Washington until about 
five years ago, when he purchased the pleasant 
country home about two miles west of the borough, 
on the National road. 

In the death of James Patterson Sayer the com- 
munity lost one of its best citizens, for a noble 
man and valiant soldier had gone from among 
them. Iu the Temple of Justice, the Post room of 
the G. A. R., in church, Sunday school, and busi- 
ness and social circles generally, his absence is 
noted with regret and his departure keenly felt. 
He was a man of sterling integrity. His views on 
all moral questions were pronounced, and his acts 
— public and private — were iuvariably the consist- 
ent exercise of the principles of an upright Chris 
tian gentleman. If one element in his nature pre 
dominated over another, it was the religions 
sentiment. The following letter written by him on 
his twenty third birthday, bears testimony to the 
deep religious feeling he was possessed of: 
Sunset Farm, 
i in Buffalo's Creek, near Farmington, 

M MUCIN ( III NTY. W. Va., ) 

August 6th, 1868 \ 
Asrain time in its remorseless flight has another time 
brought the anniversary el' my birth. I am twenty-three 
(33) years of age and now, upon a close revievi of my past 
life, the question arises, Is the world any better for my 
being in it? Oh, how verv unpleasant it must ho to realize 
the awful fact that you have done nothing to alleviate the 
toils ami sufferings or to advance tin- interests of your 



fellowmen. I rejoice to feel that I am, in my weak way, 
attempting to serve God, ami although very weak I pray 
to my Heavenly Father that my faith fail not, but that I 
may serve Him faithfully during life, and when my race 
on earth is over that I may 1m- so happy as to reach Heaven 
ami there in company with God ami angels spend the 
countless ages of eternitj . 

I have spentmost of this year at Oncle R. C. Snodgrass' 
in W. Va. I went to Amity, Pa., Aug. L9th, 1807. Taught 
school seven weeks. Left (lore let. 23rd, arrived at Un- 
cle's Nov. 6th, and was obliged to remain all winter as 
my limb was so very sore that 1 was unable to work. 
Remained until April 6th, 1868, when I returned home to 
Washington Co., Pa., and remained three weeks, and 

April tilth solemnly dedicated myself to God in the M. P. 
Church, .1. D. Herr, pastor, and now desire to serve the 
Lord. Came back to West Va. and now expect to leave 
for home Aug. 81st. Have been reading law this year, 
and wish to finish Blackstone this fall. 

Iu conclusion I wish to record my thanks to a kind 
Lord for having thus brought me safely through another 
year. I now consign myself for future life. 

James P. swer. 

He was unfailing in his devotion to the church, 
and prompt in his attendance on all its services. 
As superintendent of the Sunday school of the 
Methodist Protestant Church, of which he had 
been for years a consistent member, he was an in- 
defatigable worker, and when in charge of a Bible 
class, a better or more zealous teacher could not be 
found. At the close of the Sunday school on the 
Sabbath following the death of its superintendent, 
after some feeling remarks made by its (then) su- 
perintendent, M. Sharp, the following resolutions 
were presented and adopted: 

Wltereas, Our highly esteemed brother and fellow la- 
borer in the Sabbath si hool. James P. Saver, has been 
called from the sorrows and afflictions of this life to his 
Heavenly home: therefore, 

Rexiilrnl, That in the death of lire. Sayer we have lost 
an intelligent and devoted worker in our Master's vine- 
yard and one esteemed and loved by all who knew him. 

Resolved, That we endeavor to follow his wise counsel 
and so to live that we may meet him where sorrow and 
separation never come. 

The members of the bar met and adopted min- 
utes on the death of their respected and deeply 
lamented colleague, which were ordered spread on 
the records of the court. The following pertinent 
remarks thereon are from the pen of H. M. 
Dougan : 

The memorial, just presented, embodies all of Major 
Saver's history and character which was thought by the 
committee necessary to ^o upon the records of the court; 
much more might with propriety have been said of him, 
but to have said it would have made the report cumbrous 
and unsuited to the permanent tribute of affection and 
respect which the court directs to be placed among its 
records. It is proper that what was left unsaid be spoken 
of at this time. 

Most of those who are here will recall Major Saver's 
prominent characteristic in the conduct of legal business. 
While he was always courteous, and never took an ad- 
vantage of his opponent which lie was not fairly and 
properly entitled to. he was always combative; with him 
the (rial of a case before the court was a battle, and be 

" fought for hi8 own hand." This was the natural con 
duct of the man, for lie was born a warrior. || was as 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



345 



natural for him to oppose, and fight while there was a 
chance to fight, that which he thought was wrong or 
which threatened to unduly interfere with the interests 
ol his client, as it was natural for him to breathe, lie 
did not, however, fight for the mere love of fighting, his 
sympathies must first be- enlisted for the cause he repre 
sen ted. Like all other lawyers, he was often on the 
wrong side of a case; but whether he was on the right or 
wrong side, his conduct was the same. His side was pre 
seated to the court or to the jury with all the force that 
he could give t<> it. 

As 1 stood by his coffin, the thought that was chiefly in 
my mind was that we were about to bury one who had 

been a tine specimen id' the patriotic young American 
manhood of thirty years ago. In the years from 1861 to 
1865 hundreds of the spirited youth ofthiscountj cheer 
fully left their homes to encounter the hardships and 
dangers of service in the Onion army; of all of them, 
none rendered better service in his sphere than did Ser 
geant Saver. He remained in the army but a little more 
than a year, and in that brief time he showed that he was as 
patriotic and brave as any man in it. I have heard his 
conduct at Chaucellorsviile spoken of in words of high 

commendation by his comrades. When Gen. Hancock 
asked for volunteers to go upon an important and very 
dangerous errand, Saver was among the very first to step 
forward. In time of battle, the ordinary duty required of 
a soldier in the ranks is arduous and dangerous, but the 

chivalric courage id' our deceased friend was displayed 
at Chaucellorsviile, when he with a few equally worthy 
and brave comrades saved Lapeine's Maine battery from 
capture after all the officers and men of it had been dis- 
abled, and the horses all killed by the fierceness of the 
enemy's tire. At the great battle of Gettysburg he was 

wounded live times; oi f his wounds caused the very 

great disability of which tin- members of this bar bad al 
most daily vision; and I do not doubt that the injuries re 
eeived at this battle were the cause of the distressing 
malady which brought his life to an early (dose, lie was, 
notwithstanding Ids combative disposition, a man of 
great modesty; but he was very proud of his army rec 
onl. Of a record such as he had.it was right thai he 
should be proud. Under circumstances which tested 
one's courage, constancy and devotion, he had shown 
himself to be a soldier worthy of the cause tor which he 
Fought. His name will not live in history as one of the 
great heroes of the war; but. so long as life lasts to those 
who knew of him in that great army, the history of which 
confers an immortality of honor on all who belonged to 
it and faithfully did their duty in it, he will be remem 
bered as one of the humble and modest heroes of those 
splendid but dangerous days which witnessed the wicked 
but, futile attempt to destroy free government on this 
continent. 

He was one of the most courageous and manly men I 
ever was acquainted with. When he became certain that 
he was stricken with a mortal disease, he retired from 
public view, and calmly awaited death in the quiet of his 
own house. For him death had fewer terrors than it has 
for most; he had too often faced it in his boyhood to be 
afraid in his maturer age, and. like the Great Commander 
for whom he had so much admiration and respect, he 
died as he bad lived, fearlessly. 

The rich joyousness of summer and the solemn gloom 
of winter are now alike to him; the recollection of the 
mighty events in which the part he bore was highly hon- 
orable, will never again thrill his breast: the call to duty 
here, which he had ever obeyed with all the alacrity of 
his soldierly nature will not again receive from him the 
wonted response; his army comrades and the members of 
this bar will never again hear the genial and cordial 
greeting of this true hearted and loyal gentleman; but 
when those who knew him recall bis patriotic, unobtru- 
sive, helpful and altogether worthy life, his memory will 



be thought of as something to be dearly loved and ten- 
derly cherished. 

His memory. — He had a remarkable memory. 
He could give the day and date of almost everj 
event which came tinder his observation from tin 
time he was four years of age till his last sickness. 
He could tell the kind of weather that occurred 
on each day through all these years. A prominent 
merchant of Washington who noted in his diary 
the changes of weather for each day in the year, 
<it one time called Mr. Sayer into his office and 
questioned him on each day of the year for some four 
years, and his descriptions corresponded in every 
particular with the diary. Mr. Sayer took great 
pleasure in spending an evening with his old 
schoolmates and reminding them of all their tricks 
and the various events that once occurred in the 
schoolroom. The failure of his mind and mem 
<>iv were among the most notable features of his 
speedy decline. Punctuality. — Mr. Sayer wasal 
ways on time. He would allow nothing to keep 
him from meeting his engagements. In inspect 
ing the National Guard of Pennsylvania he was 
never known to miss a train or disappoint a com- 
pany. This was characteristic of him from his 
childhood. An engagement might extend over 
months, yet at the time of meeting it he would not 
vary a minute. BeniTolciice. — Mr. Sayer was a 
very benevolent man. He always remembered 
the poor; and was a stanch friend and helper of 
the church and all its benevolent enterprises. He 
was a willing supporter of every good cause. 
11'/// power. — Mr. Sayer's success in life was 
largely due to his will power. If he decided upon 
a certain course, bodily sufferings, and seemingly 
insurmountable difficulties never seemed for one 
moment to check him. When in the hospital suffer 
ing from his wounds, the attendant physician told 
him that he would nut live till morning; he replied 
that he intended to return home in the morning 
and so he did. The doctor said his will power 
alone bore him through. This was characteristic 
of him till his death. In his last sickness his pains 
at times were almost excruciating, yet he would 
bear them with scarcely a change of countenance. 

The funeral services of Map James Patterson 
Saver were held at his late residence in North 
Franklin township, on Monday following his 
decease, and were participated in by several clergy 
men, the funeral address proper being made by 
Rev. Mr. Conway. The members of the G. A. R. 
and of the bar attended in a body to the cemetery. 
The hearse was followed by a large cortege of 
friends. At the grave imposing ceremonies were 
performed, and the impressive service conducted 
by G. A. R. comrades. The choir sang one of his 
favorite hymns; "Abide with me." and as the 
body was lowered into the unfeeling clay, the 
bugler sounded the call for " Lights out," the 



346 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



chaplain delivered a short touching address, and 
benediction was pronounced, and the assembled 
multitude mournfully turned from the last resting 
place of a brave soldier, a kind father, a loving 
husband and a useful citizen. 



IT ARON STRAUS, a successful merchant and 
IV farmer of Donegal township, now retired 
r* - !! from active life, is a native of Bavaria, Ger 
JJ * many, where he was bom July 12, 1809, a 
son of Myer Straus. He received a public 
school education in his native country, and then 
learned the butcher's trade, which he followed in 
Bavaria but a short time, as he soon thereafter 
sailed from Bremen for the shores of America. 
After a voyage of fifty eight days the vessel landed 
at New York, and Mr. Straus at once proceeded to 
eastern Pennsylvania, where he worked in various 
capacities for some time. In 1S44 he came to 
Donegal township, Washington county, and locat- 
ing in West Alexander, followed the butchering 
business for eleven years. At the expiration of 
that time he embarked in general merchandise, 
opening a store, where he soon obtained an exten 
sive custom, building up one of the largest country 
trades in the county, and so continued until failing 
health compelled him to retire, in 1806. 

In 1844 he' was married to Hannah E. Lyle, 
who was born August 16, 1825, a daughter of 
Jacob and Elizabeth (Arison) Lyle. Of the cb.il 
dren born to this union, Rosa M. is the wife of J. D. 
Schaeffer, a lawyer of Allegheny county; George j 
A. resides in Donegal township; Louisa A. is the 
wife of Dr. T. J. McKee, of Allegheny, Penn.; Jo- 
seph A. resides on his father's farm in Donegal 
township; Lizzie M. is the wife of G. W. Lewis, 
of Ohio county, W. Va. , and Daisy V. is the wife of 
D. F. Lewis, of Ohio county, W. Va. After retir- 
ing from mercantile life, Mr. Straus purchased a , 
farm lying half a mile west of West Alexander, 
and erected a commodious and comfortable dwell- 
ing, to which he moved. He is one of the many 
prosperous and enterprising citizens which Ger- 
many has bequeathed to the United States. He is j 
a member of the Democratic party, and is ever 
willing to assist in any public enterprise, but 
makes no pretensions to active political work. 



Armstrong Co., Penn., in 1800. She was a daugh- 
ter of John and Massy Harbison, who were among 
the first settlers of Butler (then Allegheny) county, 
Penn., and who were married at Brownsville, 
Washington Co., same State, in 1787, the result of 
their union being eleven children, two of whom 
were killed before their mother's eyes by Indians, 
as related elsewhere in this volume, where is also 
given an account of the capture by the savages of 
Massy Harbison and her children, and her marvel 
ous escape from her captors. Edward White, 
father of Massy, was a soldier in the Revolution, 
while John Harbison, her husband, was an Indian 
scout or spy. Massy was a good ritle shot, and 
during attacks by the Redskins on the blockhouse, 
which was within sight of her home, she would 
seize her rifle and do her part in driving off the 
invaders. 

Edward White moved from New Jersey to 
Brownsville after the Revolution. To Mr. and 
Mrs. William Wiley were born eleven children, as 
follows: John (deceased); Martha (deceased at the 
age of sixteen years); Elizabeth (deceased in in- 
fancy); Thomas, in Washington; Henry (deceased); 
Maria (deceased), married to William Warwick; 
Frank J. L., the subject proper of this sketch; 
William C, in Washington; Ellen, wife of William 
R. Donaldson, in Wheeling, W. Va. ; Jane, de- 
ceased wife of Capt. Fred. Rainbow; and Annie 
(Mrs. Adam Harbison), in Canonsburg, Penn. The 
mother died at Wheeling, W. Va., in 1882, at the 
age of eighty-two years. 

Frank J. L. Wiley was born in Washington, 
Penn., of which fair city he has been a lifelong 
resident. He received his education at the public 
schools of the borough, and learned the trade of 
plasterer, which he still follows. Politically he 
has been an active Republican, and has held 
various offices of trust, such as borough council- 
man, judge of elections, etc. Socially he is a 
Freemason, and in religion a member of the M. E. 
Church. 



FRANK J. L. WILEY. William Wiley, 
father of the subject, of this sketch, was 
born near Winchester, Va., in 1794, and in 
1806 came with his mother, Mary Wiley, to 
Washington county, where he followed his trade, 
that of bricklayer, and died in 1869. 

He was one of the early Abolitionists of the 
county. His wife, Martha Harbison, to whom he 
was married in 1817. was born near Freeport, 



, R. F. M. FINLEY. 



The Finley family are 
numbered with the earliest pioneers of 
countv, and are of Scotch 



ID 

Mj Washington 

origin. John Finley was born in the " land 
of the mountain and the flood," whence in early 
days he emigrated to America, first settling in 
Maryland, whence he moved to Pennsylvania, and 
took out a patent for 1,000 acres of land in Alle 
gheuy county. He was married in Maryland to Mar 
garet Rowlands, who bore him the following chil- 
dren: William. John, Robert (who was a general 
in the militia), Jane (Mrs. Curry), Margaret (Mrs. 
Baldwin), Isabelle (Mrs. Cochran), Mary (Mrs. 
St. Clair), Susan (Mrs. Wilson), Levi, James and 
Sarah (Mrs. Neal), all of whom have passed away. 



■^ 



US* «S£ 



^ 




\VA SHING TON CO UN T Y. 



349 



The father was a Democrat in politics, and in 
religion a member of the Presbyterian (Dr. Mar- 
shall's) Church. Both parents died on the farm in 
Allegheny county. 

Levi Finley, son of John and Margaret Finley, 
was born in 1798, on the home place in Allegheny 
county, Penn. , and his youth was passed amid the 
scenes of pioneer life. He received his primary 
education in the subscription schools, and afterward 
attended Jefferson College for two years, when he 
ill in ned to the old place, remaining there until 
1830. When yet a young man he was married to 
Rachel Neal, a native of Allegheny county, and t he 
following children were born to their union: Mar 
garet, Melissa J. (wife of Baldwin Wallace), Susan 
M. (wife of Rev. W. W. Loverty), John A., F. M., and 
Rachel Narcissa (deceased wife of John S. Collins). 
Mr. and Mrs. Finley resided two years in Greene 
county, Penn., on a farm at Rice's Landing. They 
then returned to Union township, Washington 
county, and bought the Huston and Fawcett farms, 
where they remained eight years, selling a large 
quantity of coal. They finally bought the farm of 
Til HI acres in Union township, adjoining Finley - 
ville, and lived in that village, which was then 

called " Row Galley," but nicknai I ''Rogues' 

Alley." The name was then changed to Finley 
villi-, where for thirteen years Mr. Finley managed 
a hotel in the old stone house, which is yet stand 
ing. In politics he was a Whig and Republican, 
and in religious faith was a member of the Mingo 
Presbyterian Church. He died June 21, 1861, his 
widow in 1887. 

Dr. F. M. Finley was born March 27, 1834, in 
Union township, Washington Co., Penn., and was 
educated at the common schools and in private 
academies, entering Washington College in 1850. 
He graduated in 1854, and then entered Jefferson 
Medical College, but was compelled to return 
home on account of sickness, and there remained 
after the death of his father. He was married, Sep 
tember 23, 1869, to Emmeline, daughter of John 
Thompson, and they have one son, Francis H. Dr. 
Finley is a Republican, and has been a member of 
the school board for years. He is connected with 
the Presbyterian Church of Fiuleyville, to which 
he gives a hearty support. 



I[ SRAEL L. WOOD. Washington county of to- 
day owes her position among the foremost 
counties of Pennsylvania to the presence within 
her borders of such energetic men as the one 
whose uanae opens this memoir. 

Israel Lane Wood is a son of Thomas Wood, and 
grandson of William Wood, a native of Maryland, 
having been born near Deer Creek, in that State, 
where he was married to Margaret Mitchell, and 
moving thence to Greene county, same State, set- 
tled near Wayuesburg. At that time, and many 



years afterward, the Indians were so troublesome 
that the white settlers were obliged to cross east of 
the mountains time and again, in order to escape 
the onslaughts of the Indians, returning when 
peace would be reestablished. These journeys 
were made on horseback, as a wagon could not 
have followed the narrow trails which were the 
only passages across the mountains. During one 
of his temporary residences in Greene county, Mr. 
Wood heard that Indians were near, and he again 
fled across the mountains, but his neighbors disre- 
garded the warning, and pursued their work of 
clearing the forest. Threevr four of them, feeling 
thirsty, started to a spring near by, and while 
drinking heard the report of a rifle. Each know- 
ing that his neighbor had no gun, naturally inferred 
that the Indians had come, and tied for his life; 
but by the time one had run two or three hundred 
yards, he was discovered by the Indians, and then 
came a fearful race. The Rednien were steadily gain- 
ing on the poor fugitive, and his only hope was an 
almost impossible one — if he could only cross Ten 
Mile creek he would be safe. But the bank was a 
rocky precipice, thirty feet high, and a broken 
limb would probably be the result of the leap, 
sure to be followed by capture, then death at the 
stake, or by the more merciful tomahawk. But 
time was precious, and with a swift glance at the 
bottom of the high bank, he sprang from the rock, 
and fortunately landed unhurt, saved from his 
pursuers at last. When the Indians no longer 
made their terrible raids through Washington and 
Greene counties, Mr. Wood took up his permanent 
home in the latter, where he reared the following 
children: Michiga, Isaac, Thomas, Edward, Will- 
iam, Mary, Nancy and Elizabeth, all of whom grew 
to maturity, but are now deceased. Mr. Wood 
died in 1808, his widow surviving him until 1845. 
Thomas Wood, son of William Wood, was born 
in 1782, in the State of Maryland, and coming to 
Greene county, Penn., took an active part in the 
dangers and privations incident to pioneer life. In 
1807 he was united in marriage with Anna Ran- 
dolph, who was born in 1785, a daughter of James 
Randolph, of Greene county, Penn., who had emi- 
grated from New Jersey, and their children were 
James (a retired citizen of Wayuesburg, Penn.), 
William (a retired farmer of Illinois), Nancy (liv- 
iug with her brother James in Waynesburg), 
Lucinda (residing in Florida), Osborne (who died 
of cholera in 1848), Margaret (a resident of Waynes- 
burg), Clarkson, died in Missouri, and Elizabeth, 
living in Monongahela City, this county. Mr. 
Wood was a successful and prominent farmer of 
Greene county, where he was at one time sheriff. 
In 1842 he moved to Illinois, where he remained 
for some time, finally proceeding to Missouri, 
where he died in 1S46, followed in 1848 by his 
widow. 



350 



WASHINGTON COC.\ I ) 



Israel Lane Wood, the subject proper of this 
sketch, was born April 18, 1814, in Greene 
county, Penn. , and received but a limited educa 
tioo, as he had early in life to assist his father on 
the farm. When eighteen years of age, he learned 
the trade of a tanner, following same seven years. 
In 1839 he was married to Minerva Sargent, of 
Waynesburg, Greene Co., Penn., and they had the 
following children: Jesse E. (residing on his 
father's farm in East Finley township), Margaret 
Ann (living with her parents), Catherine Mary 
(deceased in infancy), Elizabeth (living with her 
parents), Thomas C. (deceased at the age of fif- 
teen years) and William (deceaseil when thirteen 
years of age). In 1840 Mr. Wood moved to his 
father in law's farm, in East Finley township, near 
the Greene county line, and in the immediate 
vicinity of Simpson's Store post-office, where he 
has since resided, and now owns one of the finest 
farms in the township. "Squire " Wood, as he is 
called, was always a Democrat, until in recent 
years he joined the Farmers' Alliance. In 1855 
he was elected justice of the peace, which position 
lie tilled many years. On August 21, 1861, he en- 
listed in the First West Virginia V. C, serving 
three years, and taking part in the engagements 
at Blue Gap and Blooming Gap, the right at Cedar 
Mountain, and in the second battle of Bull Run, 
all of which engagements were in Virginia. Soon 
after the last named battle he was injured by a 
stroke of lightning, and lay for months in hospital 
at Philadelphia. Receiving his discharge, he re 
turned home, September 24, 1804, and has since 
farmed on the place whereon he had first located. 
Mrs. Wood is a member of the Disciple Church. 



JfOHN A. LETHERMAN, M. I). When we 
pause to compare the relative value of each 
profession to general humanity, there is 
none superior, and few that are equal to 
that of a true physician. His opportunities 
for good are unlimited by sect or creed, as in the 
case of the clergyman, and, when so disposed, 
those who possess the art of healing the body can 
also bring messages of peace to the weary mind or 
storm-tossed soul, exhausted in the battle of life. 
The noblest instances of disinterested heroism 
have been found in the ranks of this profession,' 
which is tilled with those who have braved for the 
sake of suffering humanity the most horrible forms 
of death. Unlike the soldier on the battle-field, 
their heroism is seldom the result of an excited 
impulse or heated passion, but in the silent 
watches of the night, with no blare of trumpet, or 
thrilling war cry to inspire their courage, these 
pal lent martyrs give their lives as willing sacrifices 
to relieve the pain of their fellow creatures. It is 
both a useful and deeply interesting task to trace 



the history of such unselfish lives, and following 
the spring to its fountain head, we find in the an- 
cestry of our leading men the various traits of 
character which have coml lined to give us the 
leaders of to-day 

John Letherman (the grandfather of Dr. John 
A. Letherman) was a native of Maryland, and 
coming to Washington county, Penn., was there 
married to Christina Myers. The young couple 
settled on a farm in West Bethlehem township, 
this county, and reared the following children: 
Demas M. , Joseph, Sarah (wife of H. Richardson), 
Lydia (married to Solomon Tombaugh), Lucy 
(wife of Byron Clark) and Jane (wife of Mat bias 
Tombaugh). The grandfather was a soldier in 
the war of 1812, and in political opinion first affili 
ated with the Whig party, afterward becoming a 
Republican. He was an organizer of the Brethren 
(or Duukard) Church in West Bethlehem town 
ship. 

Demas M. Letherman, son of John and Chris- 
tina Letherman, was born March 8, 1817, in West 
Bethlehem township, Washington Co., Penn. His 
elementary education was obtained at the sub 
scription schools of the neighborhood, and after 
attending the educational institutions of Belle 
Vernon, Washington Co., Penn., he taught school 
and did some farming on the home place. In 
early manhood he was married to Jane B. , 
daughter of Joseph Munce, and she bore him 
eight children, namely: Florence, deceased wife 
of Adam Tombaugh; John A. ; Joseph W., a physi- 
cian of New Market, Ohio; Milo F., of Fallowfield 
township; Horace Biddle, deceased; Lucy B. ; Ida, 
deceased wife of Daniel Gayman, and Demas V. 
Mr. and Mrs. Letherman always resided on their 
farm in West Bethlehem township. He was act- 
ively identified with the Republican party, and 
in 1872 was elected to the Legislature from the 
districtsof Washington and Beaver counties, serv- 
ing two terms. In religious* faith he was a zeal 
ous member of the Dunkard Church. He died in 
1878. 

Dr. John A. Letherman was born February 28, 
1848, on the home place in West Bethlehem town- 
ship, Washington Co., Peun. After attending 
the home schools he entered Waynesburg College, 
and one year later came to the normal school at 
California, remaining there two years. He then 
went to Long Island College Hospital at Brook 
lyn, N. Y., graduating in 1873, and finally took a 
course at Bellevue Medical College, receiving his 
degree of M. D. in 1874. After his professional 
training was completed. Dr. Letherman came to 
California, Penn., in July, 1874, and entered into 
partnership with Dr. James McDonough (his pre- 
ceptor, who died not long afterward), in the prac 
tice of medicine. Since the death of his col- 
league, Dr. Letherman has tilled his place, and ac- 



u A.siii.xt; i<>.\ couy rv. 



351 



quired a large practice. On December 25, 1879, 
he was married to Berta A., daughter of James 
Ward, of Coal Centre, and she has borne him one 

s Llalph W. Politically Dr. Letherman is a 

stanch Republican, and has served his borough as 
a member of the council and school board al 
most continuously. 



THE VANCE FAMILY were among the 
earliest pioneers of Washington county, and 
as nearly as can be ascertained, are perhaps 
the oldest settlers of Smith township. The 
first ancestor of these prominent citizens, of 
whom we have an accurate history, was one Maj. 
William Vance. Maj. Vance was born in 17 IS in 
Scotland, aud came to Virginia in early life, after- 
ward moving to Washington county, Penn., where 
he died April 8, 1788. His son Joseph was born 
about 1750, near Winchester, Va.. where he was 
married, and coming to Washington county, Penn., 
about 1773, located three miles southwest of Bur 
gettetown, in Smith township, on a large tract of 
land. This land was then an unbroken wilderness, 
or, to quote a pioneer phrase: " There was not a 
stick amiss," but it has since been divided into 
nine of the finest farms of Washington county. As 
soon as a rude shelter had been erected for the 
family, Joseph Vance, in company with a few of 
his widely parted neighbors, began the erection of 
what was known as "Vance's Fort." This was 
intended to protect the settlers from the murder 
ous onslaughts of the treacherous Indians, who 
were yet numerous in the territory, and bitterly 
resented the encroachment of the palefaces upon 
their hunting grounds. The fort was situated but 
a short distance from the cabin of Joseph Vance, 
and stood for many years, the only signs of its ex- 
istence now visible being a piece of brick-colored 
ground. At the gates of Fort Vance, under a white 
oak tree, on October 14, 1778, the Rev. James 
Powers preached the first sermon in English known 
to have been heard west of the Alleghany mount- 
ains in Pennsylvania. On this wild tract Joseph 
Vance and his wife passed their lives, with the ex- 
ception of occasional visits to his birthplace, and, 
as immigration increased, property rose in value. 
The vast tract of land, once seemingly almost 
worthless, became very valuable, and the pioneers 
maped the deserved reward of early years of toil, 
privation and danger. The first wife of Joseph 
Vance died many years ago, leaving him six chil- 
dren, viz.: William, John, Joseph, Elizabeth, Jan- 
ett and Mary. Of this family one son, Joseph, re- 
turned with his father on a visit to Virginia, then 
went West and his fate was never known. For 
his second wife Mr. Vance was married to a native 
of Winchester, Va , who died soon after their mar- 
riage, and he made a third choice in the person of 



Mary Moore, a native of Winchester, Va.. who bore 
him two daughters: Anna Mary (wife of William 
Brady, Ohio county, W. Va.), and Hannah (mar- 
ried to Edward Morgan, Ohio county, W. Va.). 
The father died May 6, 1832, and in 1852 his 
faithful wife was laid beside him. 

William Vance, eldest son of Joseph, was born 
November 30, 1775, on the old "Fort Vance 
farm" in Smith township, where his boyhood was 
passed in the usual duties of pioneer life, a large 
portion of them falling to his share as the eldest- 
son. On December 21, L799, he was married to 
Rachel Patterson, who was born June 3, 1781, 
daughter of William Patterson, of Cross Creek 
township, this county. To the union of William 
and Rachel Vance children were born, of whom 
the following is a brief record: Cynthia, born 
Mareh8, 1801, gave her hand in marriage to Will 
iam Van Ostran (they moved to Wayne county, 
Ohio, where she died in 1884); Joseph, born Sep- 
tember 18. L802, was a farmer in Smith township, 
and died in 1SG4; James, born July 23, 1804, fol- 
lowed agriculture in Jefferson township, this 
county, and died in L881; William P., born Sep- 
tember 4, 1801), lived on a farm in this county for 
some time, thence moved to Hardin, Ky., and is 
now a retired farmer of Caldwell county, Mo. ; Al 
lison, born December 14, 1808; Elizabeth was born 
February 17, 1811, and is now living in Burgetts- 
town, Penn., the widow of David S. Walker; Ann 
was born November 8, 1812, and was united in 
marriage with Norris Walker (she died leaving a 
large family of children); David was born April 
14. 1815, and died in infancy; and Rachel was 
born December 28, 1810 (she was married toJosiah 
N. Scott, and is now deceased). On Jauuary 9, 
1817, the mother of these children passed from 
earth, and on June 12, 1818, Mr. Vance was mar 
ried to her sister, Hannah Patterson, who was 
born in 1786. Five children were born to this 
union, namely: Thomas P. (deceased farmer of 
Cross Creek township), born July 15, 1819; Mary 
(unmarried, living in Rome, Ga. ), born June 1, 
1 82 1 ; Caroline (deceased wife of R. S. Caldwell, 
Hopewell township, this county), born December 
30, 1824; John S., born June 7, 1827; and Jane 
(wife of J. S. Young, of Ohio, died in Rome, Ga. , 
where they resided), born September 7, 1830. 

During his earlier life the father resided on the 
home farm in Smith township, in company with his 
brother John, whose interest he afterward pur- 
chased. In 1816 William Vance was elected as 
representative of Washington county, in the State 
Legislature. He was an enthusiastic member of 
the Whig party, being a counselor and adviser 
among his friends, and having favored the tariff 
bill from its infancy. After the term of office had 
expired, Hon. William Vance returned to his farm, 
having made a signal success in the performance 



352 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



of bis duties. He was a liberal contributor and 
attendant of the Presbyterian Church with which 
his wife was connected. He died April 18, 1856, 
and in 1878 his widow followed him. Both are 
buried in the Cross Creek Cemetery. 

Allison Vance, the fifth son of William and 
Kachel Vance, was born on the " Fort Vance farm" 
in Smith township, receiving a limited subscription- 
school education, which he afterward supplemented 
by study and observation, eventually becoming a 
well-informed business man. On May 30, 1839, 
he was united in marriage with Margaret Camp- 
bell, who was burn February 1, 1814, daughter of 
Robert Campbell, a pioneer of Smith township. 
Allison and Margaret Vance were the parents of 
seven children: John (a farmer of Smith town- 
ship), born July 2, 1840, died August 14, 1884; 
William P., born September 1, 1842; Rachel, born 
February 28, 1845, died October 2, 1860; David, 
burn October 7, 1847, died October II, I860; 
Robert C. (an extensive farmer of Cross Creek 
township), born June 19, 1850; James L. (now 
living on tin- "1,1 Fort farm), born October 23, 
1853, and Leauder, born October 21, 1856. Mr. 
and Mrs. Vance located on a part of the original 
Vance tract in Cross Creek township (now owned 
by his son Robert), and in 1859 settled perma- 
nently on the original tract. A worthy representa- 
tive of an honored and successful family, Allison 
Vance was no exception to the rule, but on the 
contrary became even more prosperous than those 
preceding. Politically he was first a Whig, then 
a Republican. He and his wife were members of 
the Cross Creek Church, to which he contributed 
liberally. His wife died December 10, 1889, and 
March 8, 1890, the husband and father was also 
called home. Both were buried in the Cross 
Creek cemetery. A singular fact is here recorded 
in connection with the death of Allison Vance. 
For the past four generations, the male ancestors 
of the Vance family have attained an advanced 
age. The first ancestor, Maj. William Vance, 
die! at eighty-two; his son Joseph died in his 
eighty second year; William, the son of Joseph, 
died at the same age, and, lastly, Allison Vance 
breathed his last, after having passed his eighty- 
first year. 




ILLIAM WALKER PRICE, an eater- 
prising and well known citizen of Canton 
township, is a native of the same, born 
- 1 March 27, 1853. He is a grandson of 
Joseph Price, a native of France, who in 
early youth immigrated to America, settling in 
Washington, this county, where he passed the 
greater part of his life. 

William Price, son of the pioneer Joseph, was 
born in Washington, Penn., and received his edu- 



cation in the schools of his native city. He mar- 
ried Elizabeth, daughter of John Horn, of Buffalo 
township, this county, and immediately thereafter 
the young couple commenced life upon a farm, 
where industrious and frugal habits brought well- 
merited success. The following children were 
born to them: William W., Ansodon and Silas. 
Mr. Price was a member of the Republican party, 
and took a deep interest in Christian work. He 
died February 17, 1863, and was buried in Wash 

'■ ington cemetery. 

William Walker Price, son of William and 
Elizabeth (Horn) Price, passed his early years 
upon the home farm, and received a liberal educa- 
tion at the schools of the vicinity of his home. On 

I June 15, 1875, he was married to Lucinda, 
daughter of Uriah Clark, of Buffalo township, this 
county, and the following named children have 
been born to them: Charles, Lulu, Rose, Bessie 

, and William K. Mr. Price is a member of the U. 

! P. Church at Buffalo, Hopewell township, and in 
his political preferences he votes the Independent 
ticket. He has always resided on the home place. 



If If USTON PALL, an honored member of one 
r— n j of the oldest and most prominent families 

of South Strabaue township, was born No- 
Jj -* vember 10, 1805, in Amwell township, 

Washington Co., Penn. His father, Will 
iam Paul, also a native of the county, was here 
reared to agricultural pursuits, and educated at 
the subscription schools of the district. He mar- 
ried Hannah Slaught, a resident of thesame county, 
and they then settled on a farm in Amwell town- 
ship, where they lived many years. The children 
born to them were James, Huston, Nathan, Sarah 
(Mrs. Abel McFarland), Rosa (Mrs. Christopher 
Venum), Andrew, Daniel M., Lavinia (Mrs. Michael 
Schulser), John, William, Philo and Adaline Mrs. 
Thomas Reese). The father of this family died in 
November, 1840, in his sixty third year, at the 
residence of his son Nathan P., in Delaware, Ohio; 
he was a progressive, self-made man, a Whig in 
politics, and a liberal supporter of all public en- 
terprises. The mother passed away in February, 
1865, in her eighty second year, and is interred in 
Lone Pine cemetery; she died at the home of her 
son Philo, who lost his life at the battle of the 
Wilderness in front of Richmond. 

Huston Paul, whose name opens this sketch, was 
carefully brought up on the home place, and early 
trained to practical farm life, attending during the 
winter months the subscription schools of the dis- 
trict. On October 4, 1827, he was married to 
Nancy, youngest child of Martin and Catherine 
(Batten field) Heckathorn, who moved from Lan- 
caster county, Penn., to a farm near Way nesburgh, 
Greene Co., same State. Martin Heckathorn died 






- 




'XA^'nTi, ff*LuS 



n ASH1NGT0M cot \ TV 



355 



near Nineveh, Greene county, bis wife at the home 
of her daughter, Mrs. Phebe lams, in Dayton 
Ohio. They were the pnreuts of eight children, 
viz.: Elizabeth, Eva, Daniel, George, Catherine. 
Jacob, Phebe and Nancy. For five years after 
their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Huston Pan] resided 
at the mill property, one mile below Amity, in 
Aimvell township, and in the autumn of 1833 moved 
to the farm in South Strabane township now occu- 
pied l>y Mr. Paul and members of his familj 
The children born to him are Hannah (Mrs. John 
('. Hastings), Catherine -lane, William and Nancy 
E., all yet living. Their mother departed this 
life in February, INNS, in her eighty fourth year, 
having lived the life of a modest, kind and devoted 
wife and mother, and her body is laid to rest m 
the beautiful cemetery at Washington. 

Mr. Paul for some live years carried on a jurist 
mill with success, and has prospered in all his un 
dertakings; he at present owns 'J40 acres of well- 
improved land In politics he was at first an Old- 
time \\ lug. and since the organization of the party 
has been a stanch Republican. Now far advanced 
on life's journey, he is calmly await ing the sum 
mons that shall call him from the Cares of the 
world to a home where there shall lie no more pain 
or sorrow. 




,\ILLIAM PAUL. Of the names that re 

main permanently associated with the 

J' more recent development of tin 1 grand 

— ' agricultural interest of Washington 

county, there is none deserving of a more 

prominent place in this volume than that of this 

gentlemen. 

William Paul was born in South Strabane town 
ship, Washington Co., Penn., .) line lit, 183 I. a son . if 
Huston ami Nancy (Heckathorn) Paul. His early 
life was passed under the parental roof, during 
which time he was attending the common schools 

s^ % 

of the district, where ho received a liberal English 
education, which was supplemented by a course of 
study at Washington College. He continued to 
reside on the old homestead in South Strabane 
township, assisting in the general work of the 
farm, until 1N70, when he moved into Franklin 
township and bought the Hon. It. It Heed man 
sion, together with 110 acres of the very core of 
this vast estate, to which he has since added thirty 
acres. Upon this land there are several valuable 
producing oil wells. Some time ago, no other 
spot in the neighborhood of Washington being 
found desirable, the borough officials, in order to 
obtain pure water supply for the city, secure. I 
some eleven acres of Mr. Paul's farm for that 
purpose. 

From his elegant and commodious residence a 
delightful view of the surrounding country is to be 



had, the calm and peaceful fertile farms, " the or 
chard, the meadow, the deep tangled wildwood," 
having, ever and anon, glimpses of another kind 
<>i existence, as the trains of i he Baltimore .V (tin,. 
Railroad rush past, awakening momentary visions 
of great far away cities teeming with life and 
seething with commercial enterprise and activ 
ity. In addition to his general farming inter 
ests, Mr. Paul does an extensive dairying busi 
ness, the market for his product in this line being 
mainly in the borough of Washington; and in this, 
as in all his other undertakings, he has met with 
eminent success ui fact, it may without preju 
dice be said of him that in the dairy business he 
is the leader in the county. 

On September 10. 1861, Mr. Paul married .Mal- 
tha, the refined and accomplished daughter of 
Samuel and Mary (Fife) Vance, of South Strabane 
township. Samuel Vance was a native of this 
county, born in Somerset township in 1791, of 
stalwart, truth-loving Scotch Irish lineage He 
died in 1874, a man of noble impulses, st rief in- 
tegrity and high character, qualifications that shed 
their influence for the public good wherever and 
whenever called into requisition by the people^ who 

h no. I him with many positions of trust. Seven 

children have l» born to Mr. and Mrs. Paul: 

Philo V., Isaac E , Mary It., N. Alice and Mallie, 
living, and Samuel 1 1 iiston and Cary Bell, deceased. 

In the early taking away by death of these two 
much beloved and promising lads, Samuel and 

Cary, the family and I'ri Is received a great 

shock, and a bitter disappointment to their high 
hopes. Samuel Huston Paul was born June 13, 
1865, and died at 1 o'clock on the morning of 
September 26, 1886, after an illness from typhoid 
lever of three weeks. By those who once knew 

him, his line, manly face will be no i '6 seen. In 

the home, where he was so tenderly loved for his 
obedience and kindness, there is a melancholy 
vacancy. Among his many friends, with whom, 
because of his unflinching integrity, be was ever 
popular, he is spoken of with love and honor, as 
of one who could never be tempted away from 
what he thought was right. While yet the loud 
hearts of the family were in deep sorrow over the 
death of Samuel, t here came a not her stroke, all the 
more severe because of being so sudden. On I >e 
comber 25, 1886, Cary, in his boyish playfulness, 
went out of the house, saying that he would "give 
a Christmas salute." Soon afterward a loud report 
was heard, and poor Cary, a few moments before 
the life and soul of the family circle, cheerful and 
full of play, was found lying on the ground with 
his life blood fast llowing from a wound in the 
neck. He had bored a hole in a log and charged 
it with powder. The explosion nrust have been 
premature evidently while he was bending over 
the log a splinter entered his neck and severed an 



356 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



artery. Tenderly they carried him into the house 
and laid him on a lounge, but nothing could be 
done; he died in a few minutes afterward. Gary 
was within a few weeks of his eighteenth birthday, 
having been born January 17, 1809. Endowed 
with an unusual amount of good common sense, a 
cheerful, generous nature, kind and companionable 
in disposition, he has left to the grief stricken family 
and his friends naught but pleasant memories of 
him. "Why these twin afflictions?" the soul 
asks. " What I do thou knowest not now, but thou 
shalt know hereafter." 

There is no Hock, however watched and tended, 

lint one dead Iamb is there; 
There is no fireside, howso'er defended. 

But has one \ acanl chair. 

In his political preferences Mr. Paul is a stanch 
Republican, always taking an active interest in the 
public affairs of his township and county, and is a 
warm advocate of all measures tending to the ad- 
vancement of educational interests. In religious 
matters he was a member of the First Presbyterian 
Church, in which he was an elder for twenty years, 
and on the organization of the Third Presbyterian 
Church, in 1891, he became a member thereof and 
an elder in same. 



J( M. K. DONALDSON. As the lives of our 
leaders in literature, politics and religion 
) have imparted inspiration to humanity and 
civilization, so will the record of conscien- 
tious, energetic and successful men from the com- 
mon ranks of life be of infinite value both to their 
contemporaries anil descendants. Especially is 
this an evident fact, when we read or write the bi- 
ographies of our early pioaeers, whose history is 
tilled with the romance of "truth stranger than 
fiction. " 

Jacob Donaldson was born in 1763, in Ireland, 
and came to America in early manhood, locating 
in Washington county, Penn. He was married to 
a Miss MeKinuey, and first settled on a farm in 
Hopewell township, thence moving to the farm in 
Mt. Pleasant township, which is yet owned by his 
descendants. He was a member of the Seceder 
Church at Hickory, this county, afterward uniting 
with theU. P. Church. In April, 1850, lie moved 
to the village of Hickory, where he died in August 
of the same year, having been preceded by his 
wife, who had borne him children as follows: 
William (settled in Somerset township, this coun- 
ty). James (deceased, settled in Buffalo township), 
Richard (a tailor of Hickory, afterward bought a 
farm in Cecil township, and was killed while on 
his way home from Noblestown), Andrew (resided 
in Mt. Pleasant township), Isaac (lived in Mt. 
Pleasant township), Margaret (deceased on the 



farm of her brother, J. M.), and Mary (deceased 
wife of James Ackleson, Hanover township). 

Andrew Donaldson was born in 1802, in Hopewell 
township, this county, and passed his early boy- 
hood on the place of his birth, afterward moving 
to Mt. Pleasant township. In early life he was 
united in marriage with Ellen Wilson, a native of 
Cross Creek township, where the young people 
lived a few years, finally settling on a farm in Mt. 
Pleasant township. Their children were as fol- 
lows: Esther (wife of A. V. McOuyin), Eleanor 
L. (married to Leman McCarrell), J. M. K. (whose 
name opens this sketch), Sarah Jane (wife of W. 
W. McCarrell), and W. W. (living on the home 
farm), all of whom are living in Mt. Pleasant town 
ship. The father and mother were first members 
of the Union Church at West Middletown, then 
joined the Presbyterian Church at Buffalo, finally 
uniting with the Society in Mt. Prospect. He died 
in 1880, on the old homestead where his widow is 
yet living. 

J. M. K. Donaldson was born March 5, 1843, 
in Mt. Pleasant, township, this county, receiving 
his elementary education in the district schools, 
and then attending the Academy at Buffalo village 
for three terms. In October, 1869, he married 
Margaret McDowell. Her grandfather, James 
McDowell, was born in Lancaster county, Penn., 
and coming to Mt. Pleasant township, this county, 
when a young man, was married to Mary McKnight. 
They settled on a farm in Mt. Pleasant township, 
and he died in 1815, followed by his widow in 1853. 
They attended the U. P. Church at Cross Roads, 
then known as Union Church, Chartiers township. 

John McDowell was born in 1811, on the home 
farm in Mt. Pleasant township, where his boyhood 
was passed. In 1837 he married Miss Margaret 
Miller, who was born in 181(1, in Chartiers township. 
They were members of Mt. Prospect Presbyterian 
Church. He died in August, 1886, having been 
preceded in 1866 by his wife, who had borne him 
eight children, one of whom is deceased. Those 
yet living are James W. (an attorney in Washing- 
ton. Penn. ), Jacob F. (living in Mt. Pleasant town 
ship), Margaret (Mrs. Donaldson), Rebecca (wife 
of James Agnew), John (living in Canonsburg, 
this county), Sadie P. and Lizzie. 

J. M. K. aird Margaret (McDowell) Donaldson 
located on a place in Mt. Pleasant township, and 
in February. 1875, moved to the farm they now 
occupy, containing 140 acres of good land. He 
has made many improvements, having erected a 
pleasant dwelling and a good barn, 60x40 feet. He 
is an active member of the Democratic party, 
which he has served as a member of the school 
board, also as judge of elections. Mr. and Mrs. 
Donaldson are members of the Mt. Prospect Pres- 
byterian Church, of which he is treasurer. They 
have two children: J. Alfred and Margaret M. 



WASHING TON CO T\\ T V. 



357 



j. OBERT SCOTT. The Scott family 
/) early pioneers of Washington county, and 
V are of Scotch descent. Joseph Scott, the 



R 

I! — ^ oldest representative, was born about 176i, 
v in Scotland, coming to America during the 

latter part of the eighteenth century. He first 
located in York county, Penn., where he was 
married to Martha Paden, who was born in 17(>: J >. 
Prior to 1 7<S8, when Washington county was very 
sparsely settled, he came hither, aud made a home 
in tlie eastern part of Hanover township, near Rac- 
coon creek, securing control of an immense tract 
of wild land. A cabin was erected which furnished 
them with protection, and although deprived of 
many of the luxuries of life, they were soon able 
to build a comfortable home. 

The story of the struggles, hardships and priva- 
tions of early pioneers has often been told, and the 
lives of this earnest and self reliant couple were 
similar to those of their comrades, who undertook 
the arduous task of making the wilderness "to 
blossom as the rose." Industry finally was re- 
warded; they became wealthy and highly respected 
citizens, passing the remainder of their lives sur- 
rounded by children and friends. They died at a 
ripe old age, in full connection with the ''Old- 
Scliool Presbyterian" Church, in which they had 
been reared from infancy. Politically, the grand 
father was a Democrat. To this worthy couple 
were born two sons and three daughters, all of 
whom lived to an adult age. 

Robert, son of Joseph and Martha (Paden) 
Scott, was born in Robinson township, Washington 
Co., Penn. , and in early life followed the carpenter's 
trade, being naturally inclined to mechanical work. 
He was twice married, his first choice being 
Fanny, daughter of Edward Jackson. She bore 
him children as follows: Alexander, a wagon 
maker by trade, who first lived in Florence, thence 
moving to Armstrong county, Penn. ; Joseph, a 
carpenter of Burgettstown, Penn.; Josiah. a black 
smith of Burgettstown; Andrew F., a blacksmith, 
moved to Oalesburg, 111., thence to Nashville, 
Tenu.; Elizalveth, Mrs. Finley Wilson, of Arm- 
strong county, Penn. ; and Margaret, wife of 
James Work. Of this family Andrew F. is the 
only one living. For his second wife Robert Scott 
was married to Mary Kerr, of Allegheny county, 
Penn., who bore him the following children. 
Samuel, a pattern maker of Wheeling, W. Va. ; 
Fannie, widow of George Jackson, living in Flor 
ence, Penn. ; Catherine, unmarried, is living with 
her brother Robert; and Robert, whose sketch 
follows. After his first marriage Mr. Scott located 
near Candor, in Robinson township, where he re 
sided for some time, then settled near Paris, in 
Hanover township, and in 1856 came to Florence. 
The latter part of his life was principally devoted 
to work in the carpentry line, as his skill was well 



known. In repairing violins and similar instru- 
ments, he was remarkably successful, also making 
a specialty of ornaments, which required exquisite 
care. He voted with the Democratic party, and in 
religion was a valued member of the Presbyterian 
Church. His death occurred November 1, 1863, 
and he was followed by his widow August 30, 
1880. They were laid to rest in Candor cemetery. 
Robert, Scott, son of Robert and Mary (Kerr) 
Scott, was born November 7, 1839, in Paris, Hanover 
township. His education was received at the 
country schools, aud when he was sixteen years of 
age his parents moved to Florence. He then fol 
lowed farm work at various places, and in 1869 
opened a general store, having since continued in 
that business. On February 16, 1ST], he was m;ir 
ried to Margaret McCullough, a daughter of John 
McCullough, of Florence, who was one of the repre- 
sentative men of his time, and was justice, of the 
peace for thirty years. The children of Robert 
and Margaret Scott are John M. (an enterprising 
young man, who is associated with his lather in 
business), Mary D.,Emma E. and Charley B., all 
of whom are living at home. In 1884 Mr. Scott 
mourned the loss of his wife, who was buried in 
the Presbyterian cemetery. In politics he has 
been a lifelong Democrat, and though taking in- 
terest in the success of his party, has declined 
proffered nominations to township offices. He is 
a member and trustee of the Presbyterian Church. 
By fair dealing, close attention to business and 
the practice of strict economy, his business has 
prospered until it has long been recognized as one 
of the leading establishments of Florence. 




\JLLIAM N. BEBOUT, a worthy repre 
sentative of the prosperous native-born 
agriculturists of Washington county, first 
saw the lightof day in A in well township, 
February 19, 1820. The family are of 
Holland Dutch descent. 

Ebenezer Bebout, grandfather of William N., 
was for a short time a resident of Washington 
county, and died in New Jersey. Beden Bebout 
father of our subject, was born April 5, 1773, in 
Sussex county, N. J., and came to Washington 
county, Penn., in 1788, accompanied by his broth 
ers Moses, Peter, Ebenezer and Lewis; Moses and 
Beden were tailors by trade, the others masons. 
Beden was married September 25, 1794, to Mar- 
garet daughter of William Nemons, and thirteen 
children were born to them, of whom the follow 
ing is a brief record: Letitia, born August 25, 
1795, married J. Fitzwilliams, and died at the age 
of ninety-five years; Abigail, born January 9, 1797 
married J. Huston; Naomi, born October 16, 1798, 
married J. McDonald; Elizabeth, born September 
28, 1800; Isabella, born December 1, 1802, mar- 



358 



I r. 1 SHIXGTON COUNTY. 



ried J. Jolly; Moses, who was a member of the 
" Washington Blues," born November 25, 1805, 
died in 1888, aged eighty-tbree years; Christian, 
born January 31, 1808, married W. Gilbert; Will- 
iam, born August 1, 1810, died young; Margaret, 
born November 18, 1811, married Richard Jolly; 
Alexander, born November 24, 1813; Jane, born 
September 4, 1815, married Cephas Bane; Alexan- 
der, born April 19, 1818; William N. (our subject) 
is the youngest, and the only survivor of this large 
family. In 1795 Beden Bebout bought the home 
farm which his son, William N., now owns, paying 
therefor $5 per acre, and here he passed the rest 
of his busy life, dying February 20, 1867, at the 
age of ninety-live years. After he commenced 
funning, he continued his trade for several years 
during the winter months, visiting the several farm 
houses in the neighborhood, as was the custom in 
those days. His wife spun and wove linen from 
Max raised on the farm; which he would take to 
Baltimore to sell or trade, and our subject was 
twenty-one years old before he wore clothes made 
of any other material. The mother's old spinning- 
wheel and reel are still in the possession of Will- 
iam N. For a long time Mr. Bebout had to bring 
salt in bags all the way from Cumberland, Penn. 
Mrs. Bebout died May 22. 1841, at the age of sixty- 
four years. 

William N. Bebout. whose name opens this' 
biographical memoir, attended the subscription 
schools of the neighborhood and did his full share 
in the labors of the home farm for several years. 
< »n September 25, 1845, he married Susan Bebout, 
whose grandfather was a second cousin of his 
grandfather. She is a daughter of Peter Bebout, 
who married Isabel Cooper, in Ohio, and in 1823, 
came to Washington enmity, settling in North 
Strabane township, where the father died in April, 
I860, at the age of seventy years. He was a na- 
tive of New Jersey, and came to Pennsylvania at 
the same time as did Beden Bebout; and was a 
soldier in the war of 1812. His wife passed from 
life in March, 1888. After their marriage Mr. and 
Mrs. Bebout lived lifteen years on the old farm, 
then ten years in Franklin township, but sold out 
and moved to Marion county, W. Va., where they 
bought a farm and passed eight years of their lives. 
This property they sold, ami, returning to Wash 
ington county, made their home in Buffalo town- 
ship until 1888, in which year they moved into the 
borough, buying their present comfortable house, 
which is situated on East Beau street. Their un 
ion has been blessed with ten children: Alexan- 
der, a resident of Fairmont, W. Va. : Isabel, de- 
ceased at the age of four years; Margaret J., wife 
of Lee Barnes, in Washington, Penn.; Elizabeth, 
wife of Franklin Arneth, Marion, W. Va. ; Frank 
J., on the farm of 300 acres in Buffalo township; 
Nettie, wife of George Ritchey, Morgan county. 



Ohio; Thomas M., on the old farm in Amwell 
township; Ida, wife of Theodore Bell, Morristown- 
ship; and Beden. who died of blood poisoning, at 
the age of twenty one years, and when he was 
about to be admitted to the practice of medicine. 
Mr. Bebout in his religious connections is a mem 
her of the Second Presbyterian Church; politically 
he is a Democrat, and has served his township in 
various offices of trust. Mr. Bebout and his 
wife have been blessed with good health all their 
lives, and have together shared life's joys and sor- 
rows for almost half a century. Before closing 
this memoir it may not be out of place to state that 
Mr. Bebout was an eye-witness to the execution of 
"Kid," the negro slave, who had run for his lib 
erty into Pennsylvania, but was overtaken and capt- 
ured by his owner, who proceeded to take him 
back South. Bather than return to a life of slav- 
ery, " Kid " slew his master, and for this act he 
was hanged. 



V 7lf OSES B THOMPSON (deceased) was of 

\f/t Irish birth and descent. Hisgrandfather, 
■i I Adam Thompson, was born on a farm 

I - 1 four miles from Belfast, Ireland, and de- 
voted his life to agricultural pursuits and 
the manufacture of linen. He was married to a 
Miss McComb, who bore him five children: Adam, 
Benjamin, James, Moses and Robert. 

Robert Thompson, son of Adam, was born on 
the home place near Belfast, where he was mar 
ried to Elizabeth Wilson, and in 1811 they came 
to America, the voyage occupying six weeks. 
They landed at Philadelphia, whence the}' came 
westward to Pittsburgh, Penn., the journey of two 
weeks being made by wagon. In Pittsburgh he 
was engaged in the coal business, but later he 
moved to Peters township, Washington county, 
where he erected the first house in Thompsonville. 
He then for a time resided in Noblestown, Alle- 
gheny county, from there proceeding to Finleyville, 
this county, and finally opened a store in Library, 
Alleghen}' county. He died leaving three chil 
dren: John, married to a Miss Lorimer (had two 
children, Emeline Finley and William, the latter of 
whom died in 1889); Rachel, deceased at the age 
of thirty five years, and Moses B. 

Moses B. Thompson was born in 1811, in County 
Antrim, Ireland, and when an infant was brought 
by his parents to Pittsburgh, Penn. He assisted 
his father in various lines of business, and was also 
engaged in buying and selling grain. In 1850 ho 
came to the farm in Union township, Washington 
county, and carried on an extensive traffic in sugar, 
making trips to the Southern States, where he 
bought a large quantity, and then sold in Pitts- 
burgh, Penn. In 1875 he was married to Eliza Ann, 
daughter of Samuel M. Wilson, a native of Ire 




I 




"^T-Z^^W c 



WASHINGTO.\ CorXTY 



361 



land, who in 1848 came to America, first landing 
at Baltimore. Md., thence proceeding to Wheeling, 
W. Va., and afterward locating in Pittsburgh, 
Penu. , in the courthouse of which city he was a 
clerk. He was married to Elizabeth Mayne, a na- 
tive of County Armagh, Ireland. Mr. Wilson 
bought, and moved upon a farm in Allegheny 
county, Penn. , near Lock No. 3, and bought 
wool in addition to attending to his farming 
interests. He was the father of two daugh 
ters: Jane, and Eliza Ann, who was married to 
Moses B. Thompson. Moses B. and Eliza Ann 
Thompson began wedded life on the farm in Union 
township, Washington county, where the remain- 
der of his life was passed, and his widow is yet liv- 
ing. He owned four farms, and also hotel prop 
erty in the "Diamond" of Pittsburgh, which is 
yet undivided. In political opinion he was an ar- 
dent Republican, and was one of two in his town 
ship to vote the Abolition ticket. He died January 
1, 1881. 



l\VI( RS - ELIZA V WALKER, a highly 

\M\ esteemed lady of Burgettstown, was born 
T(| February 17, 1811, a daughter of William 

I -* Vance, who was a son of Joseph Vance, 
both in their day prominent citizens of 
Smith township. 

Joseph Vance was born about 1750, near Win- 
chester, Va. , where he was married, and ooming 
to Washington county, Penn., about the year 1773, 
located three miles southwest of Burgettstown. in 
Smith township, on a large tract of land. This 
land was then an unbroken wilderness, or, to quote 
a pioneer phrase: "There was not a stick amiss," 
but it has since been divided into nine of the finest 
farms in Washington county. As soon as a rude 
shelter had been erected for the family, Joseph 
Vance, in company with a few of his widely 
parted neighbors, began the erection of what was 
known as "Vance's Fort." This was intended to 
protect the settlers from the onslaughts of the In- 
dians, who were yet numerous in the Territory, and 
bitterly resented the encroachment, of the "pale 
faces " upon their hunting-grounds. The fort was 
situated but a short distance from the cabin of 
Joseph Vance, and stood for many years, the only 
sign of its existence visible being a piece of brick 
colored ground and an old stone chimney, recently 
destroyed. At the gates of Fort Vance, under a 
white oak tree, on October 14, 1778, Rev. James 
Powers preached the first sermon in English known 
to have been heard west of the Alleghany Mount 
ains in this section of the State. On this wild 
tract Joseph Vance and his wife passed their lives, 
with the exception of occasional visits to his birth- 
place. As immigration increased, property rose in 
value, the vast tract of land, once seemingly almost 



worthless, became very valuable, and the pioneers 
reaped the deserved reward of early years of toil, 
privation and danger. The first wife of Joseph 
Vance died many years ago, leaving him six 
children, viz. : William, John, Joseph, Elizabeth. 
Jane and Nancy. Of this family, one son, Joseph, 
returned with his father on a visit to Virginia, 
then went west to Ohio, and his fate was never 
known. (Governor Vance of Ohio was a cousin). 
For his second wife, Mr. Vance was wedded to 
a Miss Cook, a native of Winchester, Va., who 
died soon after marriage; and he made a third 
choice in the person of Mary Moore, also a native 
of Winchester, who bore him two daughters: Anna 
Mary (wife of William Brady, of Ohio county. W. 
Va. ), and Hannah (married to Edward Morgan. 
also of Ohio county, W. Va. ; sin- is now living in 
Kansas at an advanced age). The father died 
May 6, 1832, and in 1852 his faithful wife was 
laid beside him. 

William Vance, eldest son of Joseph, was born 
November 30, 1775, on the old " Fort Vance farm" 
in Smith township, where his boyhood was passed 
in the usual duties of pioneer life, a large portion 
of them falling to his share as the eldest son. On 
December 24, 1799, he was married to Rachel 
Patterson, who was born June 3, 1781, daughter 
of William Patterson, of Cross Creek township, 
this county, and to their union children were born, 
of whom the following is a brief record: Cynthia, 
born March 8, 1S01, gave her hand in marriage to 
Peter Van Ostran (they moved to Wayne county, 
Ohio, where she died in 1884); Joseph, born Sep 
tember 18, 1802, was a farmer in Smith township, 
and died in 1864; James, born July 23, 1804, fol- 
lowed agriculture in Jefferson township, this 
county, and died in 1881; William P., born Sep- 
tember 4, 1806, lived on a farm in this county for 
some time, thence moving to Hardin county, Ky , 
and is now a retired farmer of Caldwell county. 
Mo.; Allison, born December 14, 1808, lived on 
the home place and died in 1888; Elizabeth was 
born February 17, 1811, and is now living in Bur 
gettstown, the widow of David S. Walker; Ann 
was born November 8, 1812, and was united in 
marriage with Norris Walker, brother of David S. 
(she died, leaving a large family of children); 
David was born April 14, 1815, and died in in- 
fancy; and Rachel was born December 28, 1816, 
(she was married to Josiah N. Scott, and is now 
deceased). On January 9, 1817, the mother of 
these children passed from earth, and on June 12, 
1818, Mr. Vance was married to her sister, Hannah 
Patterson, who was born in 1786. Five children 
were born to this union, namely: Thomas P. (de- 
ceased farmer of Cross Creek township), born 
July 15, 1819; Mary (unmarried, living in Rome, 
Ga.). born June 1,1821; Caroline (deceased wife 
of R. S. Caldwell, Hopewell township, this county), 



362 



WASHINGTON ( OUNTY. 



bom December 30, lN'Jf; John S., born June 7, 
1827, now in Smith township; and Jane, born 
September 7, 1830 (married to J. S. Young, of 
Ohio; both died in Rome, Ga., where they resided). 
During his earlier life the father resided on the 
home farm in Smith township, in company with his 
brother John, whose interest he afterward pur 
chased. In 1810 William Vance was elected rep 
resentative of Washington county, in the State 
Legislature. He was an enthusiastic member of 
the Whig party, was a counselor and adviser among 
his friends, and favored the tariff bill from its in- 
fancy. After the term of office had expired, Hon. 
William Vance returned to his farm, having made 
a signal success in the performance of his duties. 
He was a liberal contributor toward and regular 
attendant of the Presbyterian Church, with which 
his wife was also connected. He died April 18, 
1856, and in 187S his widow followed him across 
the dark river. Both are buried in the Cross 
Creek cemetery. Of the children born to William 
and Rachel (Patterson) Vance, Elizabeth grew to 
womanhood, and on March 8, 1838, gave her hand 
in marriage to David S. , son of Alexander Walker. 

Alexander Walker was born in Lancaster county, 
Penn., and when yet a young man came west 
with his brother John, locating on a tract of land 
in Jefferson township, this county. Alexander 
Walker was married to Betsey Norris, of Washing- 
ton county, Penn., who bore him children as fol- 
lows: Eliza, Norris, James, Susan, Alexander, 
David, Isabella, Mary Ann, Drusilla and Samuel. 
The parents erected a log house on the farm, and 
conducted a distillery for many years. He was a 
Whig in politics, and in religious connection was 
a member of the Presbyterian Church at Cross 
Creek. 

David S. Walker was born July 6, 1816, iu Jef- 
ferson township, Washington Co., Penn., receiving 
a limited education in the log school house of those 
days. After his marriage to Elizabeth Vance, he 
and his wife resided four years iu Cross Creek 
township, this county, thence moved to Jefferson 
township, and in 187"> came to Burgettstown, 
where they have since resided. The following 
children have been born to this union: William 
H. H. (who enlisted iu the One Hundredth Regi 
ment P. V. I., and died in the South after four 
months' service; his father went to him and brought 
his remains home); Mary E. , who was married 
twice, first to Wesley Smith who died leaving two 
children, and she was afterward wedded to John 
Campbell (she is now deceased); Martha A., de- 
ceased wife of James Anderson, also deceased; 
Alexander H. , a resident of Pittsburgh; Rachel A., 
wife of D. H. Hairier, of Ingram, Allegheny Co. 
Penn. ; Jane A., and Eva (the last named being 
deceased). Mr. ami Mrs Walker commenced life 
in a very humble way, and for lour years after 



marriage lived in an old log house. Mr. Walker 
was a Whig until the formation of the Republican 
party when he enlisted under its banner; on the 
latter ticket he was, after coming to Burgettstown, 
a candidate for the State Legislature. In religions 
faith he was a Presbyterian, being an attendant of 
the church of that denomination. In business 
affairs he was a very successful man. On May 14, 
1877, the death of Mr. Walker was recorded. 

I| AMES D. CAMPSEY. Of the sturdy Scotch 

Irish it has been truthfully said that they are 

v II the livingexponents of righteous government ; 

• — ^ the un terrified defenders of civil liberty; the 

strong embodiment of virtuous manhood, and 

the uncompromising advocates of the Christian 

faith. These attributes, coupled with a high sense 

of duty, hatred of tyranny, and the love of God, 

are true characteristics of the race from which the 

subject of this biographical sketch is descended. 

James Campsey, his paternal grandfather, a 
farmer by occupation, was born June 22, 1772, in 
Mountertany, Parish of Rapboe, County Donegal, 
Ireland, and in 1794 emigrated to America in the 
ship "Liberty." In 1792 he had married Eliza- 
beth Johnson, of the same county, born February 
1. 1770, and when he emigrated to the United 
States he was accompanied by his faithful wife and 
two children: William, born July 1, 1793, and 
John, born May 4, 1796. For a few years, or un 
til 1801, they lived east of the mountains, and 
then proceeded westward to Washington county, 
Penn.. making a settlement about two miles south 
of Claysville. this section being at that time an 
unbroken and sparsely settled wilderness. When 
they arrived the neighbors formed a "bee" and 
built them a log cabin, the foundation of which 
was four stumps, one for each corner, but one day 
being occupied in its erection. Here our little 
pioneer family made their home, gradually sur- 
rounding themselves with the necessaries and com- 
forts of life, and here four more children came to 
enlarge the domestic circle: Margaret, born Fell 
ruary 20, 1798; Joseph, born February 20, 18(10; 
James, born February 20, 1803, and Rebecca, 
born June 2, 1805. The head of this pioneer fam- 
ily was a vigorous, energetic man, incessantly and 
assiduously toiling to make a home for his little 
ones, and to convert the forest wild into a fertile 
farm. On November 23, 1843, the loving partner 
of his bosom was called from earth, and Mr. Camp 
sey. having thon made an equitable division of his 
property, which was considerable, retired from 
active labor, and passed the remaining portion of 
his days on earth with his son James. He died 
September 1, 1851, full of years and honor, and was 
laid to rest by the side of his wife in Claysville 
cemetery. All their children lived to adult ages, 
excepting Margaret, who died in her girlhood. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



363 



James Cainpsey, the youngest son of this revered 
couple, was born, as above recorded, on the old 
farm two miles south of Claysville, where he was 
early inducted into farm life, and made to work 
hard, at the expense of his school lessons, which 
were necessarily very limited. He was a natural 
mechanic, and could turn his hand to almost any 
kind of work in that line, being very ingenious and 
skillful. He constructed a distillery, including all 
the plant, which he operated for some time, until 
he became aware of the harm liquor was doing 
among those who could not discriminate between 
its use and abuse. He then gave up the business 
and disposed of the plant. Mr. Campsey was 
twice married, the first occasion on November 7, 
1N27, to Isabella Daugherty, a native of Washing- 
ton county, born April 21, 1811, by which union 
there were five children: Mary Ann. born May 29. 
L830; Harriet, born November 18, 1*32; '.Mai 
garet E., born May 18, 1835; James D., our sub- 
ject, and a son, unnamed, born November 2, 1838, 
dying four days afterward. The mother of this 
family departed this life April 29, 1841, and March 
10. IS 12, Mr. Campsey wedded Mrs. Susanna 
Ralston (also a native of County Down, Ireland), 
widow of James Ralston, and daughter of David 
McMillan, of the same township, and two children 
(twins) were born to this union: David M. and Re 
becoa, born October 13, 1843, the former of whom 
is a leading merchant in Claysville, the latter dy 
ing February 19, 1876. Soon after his first mar 
riage James Campsey purchased of Samuel Stokely 
a valuable farm property, comprising 352 acres of 
prime land, lying one aud one half miles noith of 
Claysville, to which he moved and where he fol- 
lowed farming till December, 1869, when he re- 
moved to Claysville, and, there lived a retired life, 
having amassed a comfortable sufficiency by hard 
toil and earnestness of purpose. On April 4, 1883, 
he was called from earth, his wife having pre- 
ceded him to the long home September 24, 1874. 
Mr. Campsey was a member of the Presbyterian 
Church at Claysville, Mrs. Campsev being a mem- 
ber of the U. P. Church of South Buffalo. In 
politics Mr. Campsey was originally a Whig, in 
later years a Republican. 

James D. Campsey, only surviving son of 
James and Isabella (Daugherty) Campsey, was 
born May 24, 1838, in Donegal township, Wash- 
ington Co., Penn., and received his education at 
the common schools of the district, a goodly por- 
tion of his boyhood days being passed in hard 
work on his father's farm. On June 21, 1870, he 
was married to Margaret M. Moore, who was born 
in 1849, in Washington county, Penn., a daughter 
of John Moore, and the results of this union were 
five children, as follows: Harry O., born April 14, 
1871; Metta B.. born January 14, 1873, died 
October 19, 1889; Anna E , born January 14, 



1876, died June 10, 1880; Thomas A., born Janu 
ary 2, 1878, died .lime 9, 1880; and Myrtle .M., 
born January 23, 1880, all now deceased except 
Harry O. and Myrtle M., who are now living at 
home. Our subject is a lifelong farmer, and has 
always lived on his portion of the old homestead 
with the exception of the two years he was en- 
gaged in mercantile business in Claysville, as a 
a member of the firm of Sheller & Campsey. In 
politics he was formerly a Republican, but of late 
years he has given his moral support to the Pro- 
hibitionists, not binding himself, however, to any 
partv, as on many occasions he votes for the best 
man, regardless of politics. He and Mrs. Camp 
sey are members of the Presbyterian Church, ami 
are held in the highest esteem and respect in the 
community in which they live. 



If I ENKY CLAY COOPER, a prominent fit 
hrA izen of Jefferson township, is a son of 
Erasmus Cooper, who was born in Alle 
I) - gheny county, Penn., and was united in 
"* marriage with Elizabeth Patterson, daughter 

of James aud Sarah Patterson, who came to Wash 
ingtou county at an early day. He (James Patter 
son) purchased a farm of William Wells, who laid the 
foundation of the town of Wellsville. Their chil- 
dren were James, William, John, Hugh, Elizabeth 
(Mrs. Erasmus Cooper), Mary (wife of William 
Moore) and Sarah (Mrs. Robert Pogue). 

To the union of Erasmus aud Elizabeth (Patter- 
son) Cooper children were born, of whom the fol- 
lowing grew to maturity: William (living in this 
county), John (born February 15, 1836. residing 
in Eldersville), Robert (living in Drakesville. Davis 
Co., Iowa), and Henry C. (subject of this sketch). 
The mother died in 1846, and was buried at Per- 
rysville, Allegheny Co., Penn , leaving her young 
est child but eighteen months old. In 1855 Mr. 
Cooper, accompanied by his sons, William and 
John, moved to Iowa and purchased a large tract 
of land, on part of which now stands the city of 
Des Moines. This property was sold in 1887 for 
$200 per acre. For his second wife, Erasmus 
Cooper married a Miss Logan, of Canonsburg, one 
daughter being born to their union — Mary Bethel 
(now living in Des Moines). Mr. Cooper died in 
1856 at the age of fifty-five years. He had three 
brothers and one sister, viz. : John (killed by a fall), 
James, George Fitch and Sarah. Of the sons of 
Erasmus and Elizabeth (Patterson) Cooper, Will- 
iam came to Washington county, Penn., in 1863, 
having previously kept " bachelors' hall " together 
with his brother John in Iowa. Since returning 
to this county, William Cooper has been interested 
in the development of the Allegheny county oil field, 
with the Pioneer Oil Company, and is now living 
near Eldersville. 



364 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Henry Clay Cooper was born May 5, 1845, in 
Allegheny county, Penn., and upon the death of 
his mother, he and three brothers (John, William 
and Robert) were brought to Washington county, 
where he found a home with an Aunt Mary, the others 
being cared for in different families. Young Henry 
received a good common-school education, and on 
May 1, 1807, he formed a partnership with his 
brother John in mercantile business at Eldersville. 
The firm continued under the style of J. & H. C. 
Cooper until April 1 9, 1891, when oar subject retired 
from active business. On December 18, 1889, he 
was married to Carrie V. McCarrell, daughter of 
Thomas R. and Elizabeth McCarrell, old settlers 
of this county. 

Thomas McCarrell, grandfather of Mrs. Henry 
C. Cooper, was born in County Armagh. Ireland, in 
1745, and when seventeen years of age came to 
America, and to Pennsylvania, making his first 
settlement near Philadelphia. Afterward he moved 
to York county, same State, and while there par- 
ticipated in the war of the Revolution, and mar 
ried Eleanor Rusk, a native of that county. In 
1 793 they came to Washington county, making their 
final home near Eldersville. Their children were: 
Mary (wife of Robert Cresswell, a soldier of the 
Mexican war), Jane (Mrs. James Moore, of Musk 
iuguin, Ohio), Samuel (married to Elizabeth Mc- 
Connell, of Hanover township), Margaret (unmar- 
ried) and Thomas Rusk. The father of this family 
died on the home farm in this county in 1835, the 
mother in 1845, both aged ninety years, and both 
are buried in " The Tent" cemetery. Mr. Mc- 
Carrell was a Democrat in politics, and in religious 
faith a member of and for many years an elder in 
the Seceder Church of Brooke countv, W. Va., 
known as "The Tent." Thomas Rusk" McCarrell 
was horn August 3, 1795, in Jefferson township, 
Washington Co., Penn., and received his primary 
education in the subscription schools of the vicinity, 
later attending an educational establishment in 
Ohio While in that State he taught school about 
ten years. Returning to Pennsylvania, he married 
Ruhamah Kincaid, of Brooke county, W. Va.. and 
one child, Ruhamah J., was born to them. This 
wife dying, Mr. McCarrell, eleven years later, 
married Elizabeth McComb, of Brooke county. 
W. Va. , a daughter of Capt. John McComb, 
a native of County Down, Ireland, who came to 
this country when a young man. He became a 
noted Indian fighter, and was a Revolutionary 
soldier. In 1840, at the age of about eighty-seven 
years, he passed from earth, a lifelong Democrat, 
and a ruling elder in " The Tent" Seceder Church 
of Brooke county. The children born to Thomas 
and Elizabeth (McComb) McCarrell were Rachel 
E., Thomas A. and John A. (all three deceased), 
Elizabeth M., John T. H. (deceased) and Caroline 
V I Mrs. Henry C. Cooper). The parents both 



died at the home place at the age of eighty -two 
years. Mr. McCarrell was a stanch Democrat, 
and a member of "The Tent" Church, in which 
he was a ruling elder for about fifty-five years. 

Henry Clay Cooper is one of the best known 
business men in the western part of the county. 
His store in Eldersville is well filled with the vari- 
ous articles needed in a farming community, and 
his patrons are scattered throughout the county, 
many of his customers also residing in West 
Virginia. 



J I AMES NEEL (deceased). This gentleman 
was one of the best-known citizens and pros 
! perous lumbermen of what is now the city of 
Monongahela. He was a son of Archibald 
Neel, a very prominent man, a large landowner, 
who developed coal mines on his land. He re- 
sided opposite McKeesport, where his property ex- 
tended quite a distance, from directly opposite 
McKeesport down to Lock No. 2, on the river. He 
hail a family of six children, of whom two are yet 
living: Mrs. Oliver and Jordan Neel. 

James Neel was born September 25, 1S17, in 
Mifflin township, Allegheny Co., Penn., opposite 
the town of McKeesport. He attended school 
during the winter time in an old log building lo- 
cated about four miles from the river, and worked 
on the farm during the summer, having, to quote 
his own words, " Little of school and lots of plow." 
At the age of sixteen years he began to learn the 
carpenter's trade with one William Whigam. and 
then followed that business for some time in Pitts 
burgh, Penn. In 1840, in company with his 
brother John, he embarked in the coal business on 
the opposite side of the river below McKeesport. 
He afterward purchased a sawmill at that town, on 
the present site of Wood's rolling mill, remaining 
I heie fifteen years, and afterward, moving to Jeffer 
son county, continued in the same line of business, 
and also bought thousands of acres of timber 
lands. He there erected and operated several saw 
mills, etc., and carefully iuvestiug his limited cap- 
ital, soon amassed a fortune as a lumberman. He 
then went to the Clarion, and was in partnership 
with the extensive lumber firm of Blake, Neel & 
liodgers. also erecting the planing mill in Mc 
Keesport. Prior to 1857 he formed a partnership 
with John Wampler at McKeesport, but some years 
later Mr. Wampler withdrew, and in 1870 a part 
aership was formed by Mr. Neel with William 
Wampler (a half-brother of his previous partnei I. 
which copartnership continued to the end of Mr. 
Neel' s life. In 1870 he also entered into business 
enterprises at Monongahela City with Maj. Perry 
A. Foster, and fortune continued to smile on his 
efforts. After coming to Washington county, how 
ever, Mr. Neel lost much money in his investments, 




b^l^i^) 



WASHINGTON (iiIXT) 



mi 



through his inability, owing to advanced age, to 
attend personally to his business affairs. His en- 
tire estate is now estimated at about §500,(100, 
accumulated by his untiring energy. For some 
time he had been afflicted with a cancer in the 
stomach, and finally submitted to an operation at 
the St. Francis Hospital, Pittsburgh, which re- 
sulted in his death. He passed away July 24, 
1892, at the age of seventy-six years, leaving a 
widow and two children, aud was buried in the 
McKeesport cemetery. 

Mr. Neel was thrice married: first to Susan Samp 
son, of McKeesport, a sister of Kuhn Sampson, 
who was a resident of Monongahela, and three 
children were born to them, as follows: Thomas, 
of Brookville, Jefferson Co., Penn. ; Anna, widow 
of Ross Clark, who was a resident of Coal Centre; 
and William, deceased, whose widow is now in 
Brookville, Penn. For his second wife Mr. Neel 
married Margaret Cochran, of McKeesport, daugh- 
ter of William Cochran; they had no children. 
Mr. Neel's third marriage was on January 29, 
1857, with Nancy Cochran, who was born December 
18, 1833, a daughter of Samuel Cochran, a residentof 
Indiana couuty, Penn. .the wedding ceremony taking 
place at Iowa Mills, Penn.. Rev. C. L. Cummins off! 
ciating. To this union four children were born, as 
follows: Arabella, who died October 7, 1874, at 
the age of sixteen years; James H. , now a resident 
of C a lif° m ' a "> Charles C, living in Monongahela. 
and Nellie, deceased April 26, 1877, at the age of 
four years. 

Of Mr. Neel it may truthfully be said that he 
was thoroughly self-made, and many a day would 
he be found, in all weathers, working side by side 
with his men. Frequently, in order to save his 
lumber and other property from flood or other 
danger, he would labor as long as eighteen to 
twenty hours a day; and on one occasion he re- 
mained for hours with his clothing wet and frozen 
nearly solid. He was at all times an example to 
his employes of industry and perseverance. He 
would frequently, with his own hauds. raft his 
logs down the river, riding them over the rapids, 
an enterprise often accompanied with considerable 
danger. In those days there was no railroad from ' 
Kittanning to Pittsburgh, and many a time Mr. 
Neel would travel between those places on the old- 
fashioned stage coach, over roads so rough that the 
travelers would frequently have to alight, and on 
foot help to hold the old stage coach from tipping 
over the bluffs. Often, after paying his fare, would 
Mr. Neel walk, in order to allow some less robust 
fellow traveler to ride in the vehicle. A man of 
large and generous heart, he was ever anxious to 
accommodate others in such and other ways; and 
not a few now successful business men. who for- 
merly had dealings with him, owe their success 
largely to the generosity and substantial assistance 



of Mr. Neel. In the conducting of his affairs he 
would frequently have to rise at three or four 
o'clock in the morning and set off down the river 
in a small skiff, rowing all the way to Pittsburgh; 
while sometimes he would take passage on one of 
the larger boats at Red Bank, a place lying be- 
tween his home aud the city. Mr. Neel was of a 
hearty, jovial disposition, fond of company, but 
quiet in his enjoyments, at all times speaking in 
low tones, and he surrounded himself with a mul- 
titude of friends. While not a member of any 
church, he was possessed withal of sterling 
Christian qualities, believing in deeds rather than 
in professions. During the later years of his life he 
was afflicted with partial deafness, which caused him 
to seek comparative retirement from society. He 
was "f medium height, solidly built, and possessed 
of great physical strength, his weight while in 
health being in the neighborhood of 170 pounds 
In his political preferences he was a member of the 
Republican party. 



Gl LARK CROW was born August 0, 1825, on 
the farm where he is now living, in Allen 
]) township, Washington Co., Penn.,asonof 
Lawrence Crow, aud a grandson of Law- 
rence aud Margaret Crow. The last men- 
tioned ancestors were natives of Maryland, and in 
L784 settled in Allen township, this county. 
Lawrence, the grandfather, applied for a patent 
August 31, 1784, aud on December 16, same year, 
surveyed the tract called " Crow's Egg," which 
contained 295 acres, and became the permanent 
home of the Crow family, who lived there in block 
houses for many years. 

Lawrence Crow, father of Clark Crow, was born 
in 1795, on the home place in Allen township, 
Washington county, receiving his early education 
in the country schools. On November 9, 1S12, he 
was married to Mary Riggs, a native of that town- 
ship, and daughter of William and Mary Riggs, 
the former of whom was a Methodist minister; 
both her parents were born in Maryland, and in 
1773 came to Washington county, Penn., locating 
on the Monongahela river, where they died many 
years ago. To the union of Lawrence and Mary 
(Riggs) Crow there were children as follows: 
Elizabeth, born November 16, 1813, was married 
to James Doneldson, and died October 9, 1847, in 
Greenfield, Penn.; William J., born July 29,1815, 
married Nancy Jackman, aud died in Illinois in 
1876; Mary Aim, born May 5, 1817, died June 21, 
1856, in Pennsylvania; Margaret L., born April 1 1, 
1820, was married to James D. Latta, and died in 
Washington county, Penn., January 20, 1853; 
Sarah, born May 10, 1822, was married to William 
Dunlavey. and died February 11, 1850; Clark, the 
subject of this sketch; aud James, born September 



368 



IV AS I n. \t, roy COUXTY. 



10, 1828, married Sarah Ward, and died October 
3, 1857, Clark being now the only survivor of the 
family. The father died in 1835, followed in 1865 
by his widow. He was a Democrat iu politics, 
and he and his wife were members of the 
First M. E. Church built in Allen township, this 
county, and known as the ''Howe M. E. Church;" 
it was originally erected in 1820, taken down iu 
1872, and rebuilt iu 1892. 

Clark Crow, whose uame opens this memoir, 
received a subscription school education, aud as- 
sisted his father iu clearing up the home farm. On 
April 30, 1851, he was united in marriage with 
Rachel, daughter of William aud Rachel (Stewart) 
Latta, and a uative of Allen township, this county. 
To this union were born three children: Ann 
Salene, Charles C. (deceased September 8, 1866), 
and James B. (deceased September 18, 1856). The 
mother of these children died December 18, 1859, 
and May 25, 1862, Mr. Crow took for his second 
wife Isabel Wilkin, b native of Coal Centre, this 
county, a daughter of Reuben Wilkin, who was 
born February 9, 1799, near Lost River, Hardy 
Co., W. Va., a son of George and Mary Wilkin, of 
West Virginia, who moved to Greenfield (now Coal 
Centre), Penn., in an early day. 

Coming to Greenfield (now Coal Centre), East 
Pike Run township. Washington Co., Peuu., 
Reuben Wilkin was married April 2, 1826, to 
Bethsheba Dowler, a uative of that township, born 
in 1808, a daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth 
Dowler, and to this union were born children as 
follows: George W., born January 28, 1826, 
married September 13, 1849, to Margaret Ann 
Addis; Elizabeth, born June 19, 1828, died June 
19, 1829; Emily, born May 29, 1830, died Decern- 
ber 20, 1887; Henry D. . born May 8, 1832, mar- 
ried October 18, I860, to Anna Piper; Mary Jaue, 
boru June 14, 1N34. married to Peter Corwin, 
November 23, 1837; Thomas, born April 7, 1836, 
married January 1, 1861, to Mary McMillan; 
Rebecca, born August 26, 1838, died September 
30, 1838; Isabel, born October 3, 1839, wife of 
Clark Crow; Luciuda. born July 2, 1844. mar- 
ried October 28, 1878, to William S. Williams; 
aud Harriet, born February 25, 1847, married De- 
cember 8, 1878, to Robert'Moore. The father of 
this family died in 1S82, having been preceded to 
the grave by his wife in 1869; she was a member 
of the First M. E. Church iu Greenfield, built iu 
1838. Thomas and Elizabeth Dowler were mem- 
bers of the First M. E. Church in Allen township, 
which went by the name of the "Howe Church,'' 
of which meution has already been made in this 
sketch. 

Mr. and Mrs. Clark Crow have always resided 
on the home place, which is one of the oldest 
farms in Washington county, and contains 190 
acres of good land. In politics he is a Democrat, 



and has served faithfully as road supervisor, judge 
of elections and member of the school board. In 
religion he and his wife are members of the M. E. 
Church at Mount Tabor. Their children are Olive 
E. (Mrs. Samuel Winnett, living on the home 
farm) and Loretta (Mrs. W. A. Strowd, of East 
Pike Run township) (twins), Eldora (wife of J. M. 
McCracken. of Greene county, Penn.), William 
(married to Olive Crawford, aud living in Allen 
township), Fred G., Lawrence C. and Edgar J., 
all three of whom are living with their parents. 
Mr. aud Mrs. Crow are the grandparents of six 
children living, aud one deceased. 



n. A. MEALY, an old and well-knownresident 

// \\ of Claysville, is a native of Washington 
1/ \\ county, Penn.. born in Donegal township 
Jj March 15, 1815. His early life was passed 

with his grandfather, George Mealy, who 
was born iu Lancaster county, Penn. , and was 
reared to manhood on the home farm. George 
Mealy was united in marriage with Mary Horn, a 
resident of the same county, and their children 
were as follows: John, Samuel, David, Margaret. 
Sarah. Maria. Elizabeth. George and William. Iu 
1812 Mr. Mealy and his family started for Wash 
ington county, Penn., and after a long and tedious 
journey by emigrant wagons they arrived in Done- 
gal township, and settled on the farm of 100 acres, 
which Mr. Mealy had previously purchased. It 
was partially cleared, and had some buildings on it. 
He was an energetic and progressive man, taking 
an active part in public enterprises. Politically he 
was a stanch Democrat, and a most ardent worker 
in his party In religion he was a member and 
hearty supporter of the Presbyterian Church. 

A. A. Mealv (grandson of the above pioneer) 
passed his early youth in attending to the farm 
duties on his grandfather's place, and during the 
winter season went to the neighboring schools. 
The school-house was like others of that day, a 
rude affair, but within those humble little cabins 
many of our most intelligent citizens received their 
first instruction in literature. When fifteen years 
of age Mr. Mealy was apprenticed to James Shan- 
non, a shoemaker, and has since been engaged in 
that vocation, always recognized as one of the best 
workmen of Claysville. When twenty-two years 
of age he began business for himself, and opened 
a shop. On July 2, 1835. he was married to Jane, 
daughter of Hugh McCaskey, a native of Ireland, 
who in youth came with two brothers to America. 
Mr. McCaskev settled in Lancaster county, Penn. . 
remaining there several years, and was married to 
Julia Haggerty. who bore him the following chil- 
dren: Mary (Mrs. Charles Knight). Sarah (Mrs. 
William Moore). Jane (wife of A. A. Mealy) and 
Margaret. When a young man Mr. McCaskey 



UASHIXiriOX COUNTY. 



369 



learned the tanner's trade, wbicb he followed sev 
eral years. He then conducted a general store at 
Pittsburgh for some time, hut, finally moved to 
Canonsburg, Washington county, and resumed 
his trade. In politics he was a Whig, and in re- 
ligion a member of the Presbyterian Church. 
After his marriage, Mr. Mealy settled on his pres 
ent home in Claysville, this county, and reared the 
following children: Margaret, wife of William 
Warrill; Julia A., wife of John Short; John, George 
and Anthony A. The mother of these passed away 
December 5, 1891, after a happy married life of 
fifty-four years' duration. Mr. and Mrs. Mealy 
celebrated their golden wedding July 2, 1885, 
when they had all their children present with them 
to participate in a most delightful family reunion. 
Mr. Mealy was appointed postmaster of Claysville 
in 1845, by the administration of James K. Polk, 
which position he occupied sixteen years. He has 
always taken an active interest in the welfare of 
the community, and in politics is an active mem- 
ber of the Democratic party. From early youth 
he has been a zealous member of the Presbyterian 
Church. The following is a record of his sons: 

John Mealy was born in Claysville, this county, 
and received his elementary education in the town 
schools, which schools he afterward taught for 
several terms with great acceptance to the people. 
He graduated at Washington and Jefferson Col 
lege, and then entered the Western Theological 
Seminary. After his graduation ho was called to 
the Presbyterian Church of New Wilmington, 
Penn., of which he is now the pastor. "The 
church of Neshauock,'' New Wilmington, has been 
Mr. Mealy's only charge, covering a pastorate of 
twenty-five years. He has had in the meantime 
calls from a number of churches in the largest 
cities of the Union, but. pastor and people being 
bound together by so many endearing ties, to- 
gether with the accomplishment of a great and 
good work, have thus far made a separation impos 
sible. He is an earnest preacher, and has ever 
been a power iu Sabbath -school work. His pleas 
ant and kindly disposition and cordiality of man 
ner have always made him a favorite with old and 
young. Mr. Mealy was united in marriage with 
Ida Willmouth, and they had three children: Flor- 
ence, Lavina and George. Mrs. Mealy died 
February 8, 1874, and for. his second wife Mr. 
Mealy was married to Augusta Pomery, who has 
borne him one daughter, Jane. 

George Mealy obtained his early education by 
self-study, and at the schools of Claysville, which 
he afterward taught. He then attended medical 
lectures at Jefferson Medical College, Philadel- 
phia, and Western Reserve, at Cleveland, Ohio, and 
graduated. He is now practicing his profession 
iu New Wilmington. Penn. His wife was formerly 



Mary McEnall, and they have three children: Harry, 
John and Mary. 

Anthony A. Mealy was also born in Claysville, 
and was educated at Westminster College, New 
Wilmington, Penn . He then entered the Western 
Theological Seminary, and graduated in 1N77. 
He is now pastor of the Central Presbyterian 
Church at Pittsburgh. Penn. He was married 
June 22, 1882, to Bird Dalzell, and they have two 
daughters: Ellen and Lydia. 



EORGE YOUNG HOLMES. George Young 
Holmes, Sr. , the oldest living representative 
of the family, was born at Saltcoats, Sent 
laud, May 13, 1820. His grandfather. Will 
iauj Holmes, in his youth became a sailor, 
and so faithful was he in the discharge of his du- 
ties on shipboard, that he was rapidly promoted, 
rising from apprentice to the position of captain 
on a large vessel plying between Norway and 
Scotland. While superintending the lading of 
his vessel in a Norway port, he was accidentally 
killed, and his body was buried in that couutry 
about 1781 or 1782. His clothing and other effects 
were sent home to his grief-stricken family, in 
an old sea-chest which half a century later was 
brought to America, and is still (1893) in exist- 
ence. Some years prior to his death, Capt. Holmes 
married Elizabeth Brown, and resided at Saltcoats, 
a seaport then of considerable importance, pro- 
ducing large quantities of salt. Ship-building was 
also in a very flourishing condition then and for 
many years afterward. The family consisted of 
four- children : Robert, William, Martha and Eliz- 
abeth. Mrs. Holmes, a woman of rare ability, 
possessing to a remarkable degree the energy 
characteristics of the Scotch people, began immedi- 
ately the training and education of her little fam- 
ily, and she lived to see all of them respected mem : 
bers of society, reflecting honor upon her loving 
care. 

The maternal grandfather, William Brown, then 
a master weaver, took Robert and William as ap- 
prentices at hand-loom weaving, a trade of great 
importance prior to the invention of the power- 
loom. They continued at this trade for some time, 
but Robert's taste inclined toward the study of 
medicine. With William's assistance, he was 
graduated from the University of Glasgow, attend- 
ed the medical lectures at Dublin, and began the 
practice of medicine at Saltcoats, but within a year 
he died of typhus fever contracted from one of his 
patients. For some years William continued at 
his trade, and in his spare moments, by diligently 
applying himself to study, he became an excellent 
English scholar and a fine penman. For some 
time he held the position of clerk in the Irwin 



370 



WASHINGTON (WW TY 



Bank, and after his marriage engaged in the gro- 
cery business. He was then appointed postmaster 
and agent for the sale of Government stamped 
paper, which positions he retained until he emi- 
grated to America Although holding office uuder 
the Crown for many years with loyalty above re- 
proach, he was an ardent Republican, and believed 
firmly in government by the people. In 1803 he 
married Elizabeth, fourth daughter of John Mc- 
Nilledge, of Glasgow. They had ten children, 
three of whom died in infancy. Margaret, the eld- 
est, married and remained in Scotland, dying in 
1836. The other children, namely: Robert, Eliz 
abeth, Mary, Martha, George Young and Agues 
Jane, with their parents, emigrated to America in 
1830. 

The deplorable condition of trade which had ex- 
isted in Great Britain from the fall of Napoleon 
in 1815, until this time, induced him to sever the 
ties which bound him to his native land and seek 
a home and a grave in the Western World. On 
April 22, 1830, he, with his family, set sail on the 
" Rodger Stewart," an American-built vessel which 
had been captured by the British in the war of 
1812. During the long voyage of six weeks and 
four days, he kept a journal accurately recording 
the incidents of .each day, the condition of the 
weather, etc., and from this journal, still in exist- 
ence, we take the following: 

"Friday, May 7, 1830.— It blew hard all last 
night and the ship rolled very much. George 
Young (George Y. Holmes. Sr.) was sent for a 
little water. Standing beside Robert, the ship 
gave a heavy roll. He ran to the lee side and 
struck violently against the bulwarks, then fell 
and gave a cry. Robert ran to his assistance and 
found that his thigh bone, right leg, was fract- 
ured. After a good deal of trouble and delay, we 
got it set and him put to bed in a small berth in 
the poop of the ship. He was rather uneasy, rest 
less and pained, but behaved very well. " 

Early in the morning of May 13, the passen- 
gers were aroused from their sleep by the cry of 
" Fire! " Mr. Holmes, in his journal, says: "When 
the word was given 'The ship is on tire,' one gen 
eral cry of agony and despair arose from the 
women and children such as I never heard before 
and I hope shall never hear again." The fire had 
its origin in the cabin, and had gained consider 
able headway before being discovered, but by the 
combined efforts of crew and passengers the 
flames were finally extinguished. The journal 
continues: "And now that the danger is over, 
ought we not to praise God for His goodness and 
His works of wonder." The remainder of the voy- 
age was uneventful, and at length the "Rodger 
Stewart" entered the harbor of New York. On 
the day lie landed Mr. Holmes wrote: "God's 
mercies are indeed new unto us every morning, and 



great reason have we to bless His name who has so 
far guided us in our way." 

After securing comfortable rooms for his family 
in New York he presented letters of introduction 
to Mr. Buchanan, British consul. This gentle- 
man received him cordially, and gave him a letter 
to the governor of Upper Canada. Accom 
pauied by his son Robert, he set out on his mem- 
orable prospecting tour from New York to Albany, 
thence to Buffalo, thence to Toronto. Here he met 
the Governor and also a large land-holder, a 
Scotchman, named Stevens, who made him a ten 
der of 200 acres of unbroken timber land, but not 
being entirely satisfied with Canada, they retraced 
their steps, re-entering the United States at Niag- 
ara Falls. Thence they journeyed southward un- 
til they reached Claysville, Washington Co., Penn., 
and being well pleased with this section they de- 
cided to locate upon the farm' now owned by Mr. 
D. M. Cauipsey, one mile northwest of Claysville. 
Mr. Holmes then returned to New York and 
brought his family by water to Baltimore, Md., 
thence by road-wagon to the home which he had 
provided for them, and where he expected to spend 
the remaining years of his life. Two years later 
he purchased for $1,000 the farm of 120 acres, now 
owned by George Y. Holmes, Sr. Here he resided 
until his death in 1847. In his younger days he 
united with the Baptist Church in his native land, 
and for more than twenty years was pastor of 
the church in Saltcoats. After coming to America 
he continued to preach to his friends and neigh- 
bors who would gather in the farm house on Sab- 
bath days. He had been well acquainted with 
Sir Walter Scott, and through the reading of his 
works and his conversation with the novelist him- 
self, he became imbued with the spirit of the anti- 
quarian; he gained possession of many rare coins, 
of an old family Bible published in 1570, and of a 
clock which is still keeping good time at the age 
of one hundred and fifty years. His wife died in 
186'J at the advanced age of ninety-one years. 

At the death of his father, George Y. Holmes, 
Sr. , purchased the homestead upon which he has 
lived continuously for sixty-one years. Of the 
Holmes family who emigrated to America in 1830, 
he and his youngest sister, Mrs. Agnes J. Laird, 
are the only living representatives. In 1846 he 
married Elizabeth, second daughter of John Snod 
grass, and they had four sons and four daughters, 
all of whom are still living. Mr. Holmes is the 
only survivor of the fifteen Abolitionists of Done- 
gal township, who voted the Free-Soil ticket until 
the formation of the Republican party. His life 
has been quiet and uneventful. Following in the 
footsteps of his father, he has been a consistent 
member of the Baptist Church for many years 
Although not an ordained minister, lie preached 
for the churches of this denomination located at 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



371 



North Wheeling, Buffalo, and Washington, Penu., 
and occasionally he occupies the pulpit of his pas- 
tor, Rev. S. L. Parcel!, of the First Baptist Church 
of Claysville, Penn. Since the death of his wife, 
which event occurred June 20, 1884, Mr. Holmes 
has continued to reside upon his farm, which he still 
superintends, although seventy-three years of age 
and past active' labor. Having inherited a love 
for good literature, he is an indefatigable reader 
of history, poetry and the better class of fiction. 
Thus he is spending the declining days of his life 
in peaceful enjoyment of comfortable circum- 
stances, the result of many years of care and labor. 



J | AMES L. WELLS was a son of William 
Wells, who came to Pennsylvania from Yir- 
] ginia in 1800, and settled in Woodstock, 
Ohio, in 1852, from whence he moved to 
Zanesville, where he died. William Wells 
was a Methodist in religion, a Whig in politics, 
and a chair maker by trade. His children were as 
follows: sons — James L., Joseph, Dennis B. , 
William, Benjamin and Westley; and his six 
daughters were: Martha, Eliza, Christiana, Jane, 
Matilda and Mary Ann. James L., the subject of 
this sketch, was born June 20, 1815, in Williams- 
port (now Monongahela), Penn., where he passed 
his early life. 

He learned the brick and stone mason trade in 
Pittsburgh, Penn., and possessing a natural in- 
clination for mechanical work became an expert 
boat builder. Politically he was a leading mem 
ber of the Whig and Abolition parties, having ma 
terially assisted in the famous "Underground Kail 
way." He was equally interested in educational 
matters, and served as president of the school 
board until the time of his death. When a young 
man Mr. Wells was united in marriage with Man, 
daughter of Robert Mason, and their children 
were Sarah F., William W., R. M., Julius L. and 
Martha A. The father was a member of the Wes 
leyan Methodist Church until that organization 
dissolved, when he became a zealous worker in 
the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. He died 
in September, 1888, and was buried in the ceme- 
tery at California, beside his wife, who had been 
laid to rest in 1874, leaving a memory sweet with 
the fragnance of every virtue. 

Mr. Wells, in his younger days, was an active 
and powerful man, and possessed the courage to en- 
gage in any honorable calling promising adequate 
reward. He appears not to have started in life 
with a desire to become rich, but simply with an 
inflexible determination to achieve honorable inde- 
pendence, and that he succeeded none who knew 
him will deny. If he possessed one characteristic 
that dwarfed and overshadowed allothers,it was per- 
sonal independence — that trait in man's character 



that forbids him to " crook the supple hinges of 
the knee that thrift may follow fawning." From 
early manhood he conformed his life to the teach- 
ings of practical Christianity by that open handed 
charity which brings hope and comfort to mis 
fortune. His family relations were of the most 
pleasing and agreeable character, and his cosj 
home iu Coal Centre (formerly Greenfield) marked 
him as a man of taste, and an advocate of system 
in all the details of life. In manner Mr. Wells 
was serious; by some he was even regarded as 
severe; yet beneath that thoughtful and meditative 
exterior there was a stratum of quiet humor, which 
came to the surface in conversation, and rendered 
him a most agreeable and entertaining companion. 
In the evening of his life, enthroned in the affec- 
tions of his children, and enjoying the well-earned 
respect of his neighbors, Mr. Wells could review 
the events of his long and busy life without a 
blush. 

His son. It. M. Wells, M. D., the only male rep- 
resentative of the family now residing in Washing- 
ton county, is a well-known physician of Coal Cen- 
tre, of which place he is a native, having been 
born there June 22, 1846. 

Dr. Wells received his elementary education 
in the public schools of Coal Centre, this county. 
In 1864 he enlisted in Company D, Fifty-seventh 
Regiment, P. V. I., and served with the army of 
the Potomac until the close of the war. He 
commenced the study of medicine in 1870. In 
September, 1872, he began a course in the medical 
department of the University of Pennsylvania, and 
in 1874 entered the College of Medicine and Sur- 
gery at Cincinnati, Ohio, from which institution 
he graduated. He first began to practice his pro 
fession at Dawson Station, Fayette Co., Penn., 
later moved to Greenfield, now Coal Centre, and 
in 1889 moved to Davenport, Iowa. In 1890 he 
returned to his present home in Coal Centre (on ac- 
count of the ill health of Mrs. Wells), where he en- 
joys a large and constantly increasing practice. 
On May 8, 1879, Dr. Wells was married to Susanna, 
daughter of John Wood. His brothers, William 
W. and Julius Lemoine, are in business at Mo- 
line, Illinois. 



GOWDEN. The grandfather of the present 
generation, John Cowden, was born in east 
ern Pennsylvania of Scotch Irish parents, 
who had settled in the State several years 
prior to his birth. He was united in marriage 
with Anna Sloan, and soon afterward moved to 
Washington county. They settled on a farm in Mt. 
Pleasant township, a part of the original George 
Washington survey, where the remainder of their 
lives was passed. 

John Cowden, father of our subject, and son of 



372 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



John and Anna (Sloan) Cowden. was born in Mt. 
Pleasant township, this county, passing his boy- 
hood on the home place. In 1820 he married 
Mary Kelso, also a native of this township. She 
was a daughter of Mark and Martha (Ewing) 
Kelso, natives of Allegheny county, Penn., who 
came to this county in pioneer days and died here. 
Mr. ami Mrs. John Cowden began their wedded 
life on the farm now occupied by their son Robert, 
where the following children were born: Elizabeth. 
Joseph (a farmer of Cecil township), Mark K., 
Margaret B. (married R. B. Miller, of Canons 
burg, and died in 188*5), Jane, John, Robert and 
Mary (widow of Rev. R. C. Welch, pastor of the 
Buffalo U. P. Church; she is living in Philadelphia, 
and has three sons: Robert Lincoln, a U. P. minis 
ter, in Iowa; James M. , aD assistant U. P. minis 
tar, in Philadelphia, and John C, attending the 
medical college at Philadelphia). Mr. Cowden 
followed farming all his life. He was an active 
Wbi^, and in church connection he and his wife 
were members of the U. P. Seceder Church at. 
Hickory. He died in 1854, his wife in 1883. 

Mark K. Cowden was born September 27, 1827, 
on the home farm in Mt. Pleasant township, re- 
ceiving his education in the subscription schools of 
the vicinity. In early life he was united in mar- 
riage with Jane, daughter of Andrew and Eliza 
beth (Bell) Thompson, early residents of Chartiers 
township. Mr. and Mrs. Cowden began life on 
the farm where they yet reside. This contains 204 
acres of well-cultivated land, and also a good gas well. 
They also own al>out seventy-eight acres near Hick- 
ory and are interested in sheep growing. They 
are members of the U. P. Church at Venice. The 
children of Mr. and Mrs. Cowden are: John (who 
lives in Hickory, married to Elizabeth Boyce), 
Thompson (living near Hickory, married to Sarah 
McKnight), Elizabeth (residing in Houstonville, 
wife of Harry McNary), Robert, William, Lida,Van- 
Eminon, Mary (Mrs. Joseph Little, of Cecil town- 
ship), and Joseph Alexander (a farmer of Mt. 
Pleasant township, married to Anna Cummins). 
Mr. Cowden votes with the Prohibition party. 

Robert Cowden was born November 10, 1835, 
on the farm in Mt. Pleasant township, which is yet 
his home, and received a district school education. 
In 1859 he was united in marriage with Margaret, 
daughter of Samuel and Mary A. (Miller) Allison, 
natives of Beaver county, Penn., who settled in 
Mt. Pleasant township about 1855. To Mr. and 
Mrs. Cowden children were born as follows: 
Elizabeth (wife of John Peacock, of Houstonville), 
John (deceased in his fifteenth year), Emma (wife 
of Robert Smith, of Mt. Pleasant township), Mar- 
garet, Jennie A., Robert and Joseph, the four 
last named living at home. The mother of this 
family died in February, 1N77, and mi September 
15, 1880, Mr. Cowden married Margaret McDon 



aid, a native of Beaver county, Penn., to whom 
one child, McDonald Cowden, was born. Mrs. 
Cowden is a daughter of John and Margaret (Bar 
clay) McDonald. Mrs. McDonald resided in 
Washington county, prior to her marriage, after 
which they settled in Beaver county, Penn., the 
birthplace of Mr. McDonald. Both parents died 
in that county, the mother passing away in 1887. 
Robert Cowden inherited the old homestead of 
260 acres, to which he has added about as much 
by purchase, all being in a good state of cultiva- 
tion. He devotes considerable attention to stock, 
raising a high grade of Black top Merino sheep. 
In polities he votes the Republican ticket, and in 
church relations he and his wife are members of 
the United Presbyterian Church at Venice. 



ffOHN COWDEN. The Cowden family have 
long been identified with the well known, 
\( J ) energetic and successful pioneer settlers of 
Washington couuty, Penn. The grandfather 
of the present generation, John Cowden, was 
born in eastern Pennsylvania of Scotch Irish 
parents, who had settled in the State several years 
prior to his birth. He was united in marriage with 
Ann Sloan, and soon afterward moved to Wash 
ington county. They settled on a farm in Mt. 
Pleasant township, on a part of the original 
Greorge Washington survey, and there the remain 
der of their lives was passed. 

Isaac P. Cowden was born in 1 798, in Mt. 
Pleasant township, this county, where he grew to 
manhood, and in 1823 married Esther Nelson, 
who was born in 1799, on a farm in the same 
township where their son John is yet residing. 
Her father, James Nelson, was born in York 
county, Penn., came to Washington county when 
a boy, and, locating on the home farm in Mt. 
Pleasant township, married Ann Duncan, and 
passed the remainder of his life there. Mr. and 
Mrs. Isaac Cowden first settled on a farm near 
Hickory, this county, where children were born as 
follows: Lillie Ann (wife of Robert Thompson. San 
Jacinto, Cal. ), John (Mt. Pleasant), Martha and 
Margaret (residing in West Middletown) and 
James (living in Sumner county, Kans.). The 
parents were both members of the Mt. Pleasant U. 
P. Church at Hickory. The father died in 1865, 
and in 1 S77 the mother passed away. 

John Cowden. son of Isaac and Esther Cowden, 
was born October 23. 1827, in Mt. Pleasant town- 
ship, this county, and spent his youth on the old 
homestead near Hickory, this county, receiving his 
education in the subscription schools of the town- 
ship. In L857 he married Louisa, granddaughter 
of Joseph and Martha (Paden) Scott, and daugh- 
ter of Joseph Scott. The latter was born in the 
year 1801, in York county, Penn., coming with 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



373 



iiis parents when a boy to Hanover township, this 
jouaty. He there married Isabelle Nelson, and 
wttled on a farm in Hanover township, where he 
lied in 1872, the mother passing away in Septem- 
Oer, 1886. Both were members of the Presbyte- 
rian Church at Florence, this county. They had 
jix children, four of whom are living, viz.: Louisa 
^Mrs. John Oowden), William (a farmer of Beaver 
county, Penn.), Elizabeth (wife of Samuel Dennis, 
Wellsville, Penn.) and Joseph (residing on the old 
homestead in Hanover township, this county). 
John Cowden and his wife first settled on the 
farm of 234 acres which they still own, and have 
erected a comfortable dwelling. The following is 
a brief record of their children: Isaac Patterson, 
horn November 25, 1859, married in 1883 Mary 
Alice Guthrie, who bore him two children: Elmer 
and Eivafthey reside in Chartiers township); Joseph 
Scott, born May 29, 1861, is a farmer of Sumner 
county, Kans. , and was married, in 1891, to Miss 
Maggie Williams; Mary Isabelle, born March 23, 
1863, was married in 1882 to James Guthrie, a 
carpenter of Canonsburg (they have two children, 
Nora and Ellsworth); Esther Ann, born February 
16, 1865, was married in 1885 to John S. Hutch- 
inson, a carpenter of Houstonville, and has two 
children: Jennie and John Cowden; Lillie, born 
November 23, 1866, died in March, 1871; James 
Nelson, born May 30, 1868, is living at home; 
William Anderson, born April 27, 1870, is also at 
home; John Alexander, born November 3, 187:'. i-, 
residing on the home place. Mr. Cowden votes 
with the Republican party. He and his wife are 
both members of the United Presbyterian Church 
at Venice, this county. 



J[ G. HANNA. There is no more piominent 
figure among the prosperous citizens of In- 
| dependence township than the gentleman of 
whom we write. He is a son of Richard 
Hanna, who was born in 1790, in County Down, 
Ireland, but, when young, moved with his parents 
to County Cavan. He learned the weaver's trade, 
and, like many others of his young countrymen, 
struggled heroically on until he saved enough to 
pay his passage to America, the Mecca of all op- 
pressed and persecuted nations. In 1818 he em- 
barked from Dublin, but when only a few weeks 
from shore, the ship sprang a leak. Hoping to 
roach port before the vessel sank, the crew steered 
for Cork, which was reached in time, and the '-•as- 
sengers (for some reason not being allowed to 
land) were transferred to another ship bound for 
Halifax. After a voyage of twenty-one weeks, 
the good ship anchored at Halifax, where young 
Hanna followed his trade for a short pern d; then, 
as he had a distant relative in Washington county, 



Penn., he decided to attempt the journey thither. 
He had previously been employed at gathering 
stones, for not being able to secure steady work at 
his own trade, he accepted the only employment 
offered, rather than wait idly for more suitable 
work, willing to earn his bread in any honorable 
manner. 

Would that some of our modern young men 
would profit by the lesson of this life, so plainly 
given in the simple facts that no moral is needed 
to point the application. Having very little money 
with which to pay the expenses of a trip to Penn 
sylvania, the sturdy young fellow invested his 
small savings in goods, which he attempted to sell 
on the journey to Washington county. This ex- 
periment, however, was only partially successful, 
and only by the strictest economy did he succeed 
in arriving at the end of his journey. He had 
finally reached West Middletown, six miles from 
his destination, when the soles of his shoes dropped 
off, but he passed on to the one or two houses then 
erected on the present site of Independence, where 
his relative resided. The long, tedious trip was ac- 
complished, and the young traveler had just one 
cent in his pocket as capital stock to invest in new 
speculations. The reader who has followed the 
history of this brave youth so far will not ask, 
" did he despair?" Such men as he, like Wash- 
ington, turn even defeat to victory; not that brill- 
iant success immediately rewarded our heroic 
young pioneer, for, on the contrary, he began 
working as a farm hand at the very modest salary 
of $4 per month, at which he continued during the 
summer — in winter following his trade. Thus he 
struggled on for some time, and, although his 
small pile of savings did not increase with wonder- 
ful rapidity, each year some addition was made. 
In 1830 he joined a party, going to Richlaud (now 
Ashland) county, Ohio, and, upon his arrival there, 
purchased 160 acres of land and began the hercu- 
lean task of clearing it, with his accustomed tire- 
less energy. In 1834 he selected a life companion 
in the person of Mary Gregg, who was born in 
1800, daughter of James and Elizabeth Gregg, 
both natives of County Donegal, Ireland, who had 
emigrated to America. Soon after their union, the 
young couple returned to Washington county, 
Penn., locating about a mile south of Independ- 
ence, on a farm which became their permanent 
home. Quiet and unassuming in manner, dislik- 
ing all forms of publicity, and finding his chief 
happiness in home life, Mr. Hanna was yet a re- 
markably clear-sighted business man, by natural 
and acquired gifts supplying the loss of a literary 
education, and, working in the face of poverty and 
against such odds, he conquered. At the time of 
his death, Mr. Hanna owned an estate valued at 
over $40,000, this vast accumulation being the 



374 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



fruit of those early years of heroic self-denial, 
toil and patient waiting. Politically he voted the 
Democratic ticket, and in religious faith was, with 
his wife, a member of tin- Associate Reformed 
Church. He passed to his well earned rest Jan- 
uary 15, 1ST'-!, being followed by the wife of his 
youth, September 0, 1876. They left two chil- 
dren to mourn their loss: Elizabeth M. (Mrs. J. J. 
Stewart, of Cross ("reek township) and James G. 

J. G. Hanna was born June 5, 1837, on the 
home farm in Independence township. He re- 
ceived a common school education, and afterward 
attended one term at the Washington and Jeffer 
son College. On February 26, 1861, he was united 
in marriage with Mary A. McCreary, who died 
July 11*, I860, leaving one daughter, Mary A. 
(widow of John T. Liggett), born June 27, 1865 
(deceased April 28, 1891). For his second wife 
Mr. Hanna, on March 12, 1868, married Jane A. 
Scott, born September 5, 1844, in Brooke county, 
W. Va., daughter of John and Jane (Henderson) 
Scott, This wife died April 16, 1881, leaving the 
following children: Nettie Bell (Mrs. J. H. Ander 
son, of Pittsburgh, Penn.), Albert M. (deceased), 
Robert S. (deceased), a daughter deceased in in- 
fancy, Josie G., Birdie V. and Mabel J., all living 
at home. On January 3, 1883, Mr. Hanna made 
a third matrimonial choice in the person of Me- 
lissa J. Welch, who was born May 10, 1857, 
daughter of James M. and Jane (Lee) Welch, of 
independence township. Two children were born 
to this union, viz.: Jane L. and Richard W. (de 
ceased in infancy). The mother died October 6, 
1SS5, and on December 28, 1887, Mr. Hanua and 
Margaret L. (who was horn January 24, 1848. 
daughter of Walter and Mary (Welch) Denny) 
were united in marriage. To them one child, Mary 
G., was born June 1 1, 1892. They now reside in 
an elegant home on the border of the village of 
Independence, one of tin- pleasantest locations in 
Independence township. Soon after his first mar 
riage Mr. Hanna located on a farm about a half 
mile south of Independence, and successfully fol- 
lowed farming, moving to his present beautiful 
home in 1S68. He is a recognized leader in po- 
litical, business and religious circles, and has set- 
tled up various estates, including the valuable 
property of his father. Although the Democratic 
party, with which he affiliates, is in the minority 
in Independence township, he has been elected to 
various township offices of honor and trust, men 
of both parties having voted for him, regardless of 
political lines, and at the present time he is justice 
of the peace. He and his wife are members of 
the Presbyterian Church, of which he 's a hearty 
supporter, having served twenty years as secretary 
of the church officers, and always contributing 
liberally to the cause. 



EORGE W. WHERRY is a grandson of 
John Wherry, a native of Germany, who 
\f when quite young came to Washington coun 
ty, Penn.. where he married and reared the 
following family : James, William, Eli, John, 
Ellen, Mary, Elizabeth and Margaret all of whom 
have passed away with two exceptions, William 
and Mary, who are residents of Somerset town 
ship, this county. 

John Wherry, the third son of this family, was 
horn on the old homestead in West Bethlehem 
township. He received a common school educa- 
tion, and was a man of no little practical knowl- 
edge, also a successful farmer. He married Cath 
erine Weaver, daughter of George Weaver, who 
was one of the early settlers in West Pike Run 
township. To this couple were born nine children 
as follows: Emma, John, William, Elizabeth, 
Eleanor, George W., Eli (married Sarah A. Greg 
ory), Mary and James. Emma is the wife of 
Samuel Grable, Washington county; John lives in 
West Bethlehem township, and is married to 
Elizabeth Bigler; William married Isadore Mat 
thews, and lives in the same township; Elizabeth, 
who married Uriah Hill, died in 1885, at the age 
of thirty-six years; Eleanor married James Harvey 
Hire, and lives in West Bethlehem township, 
where Mary (Mrs. Henry Hathaway), Eli and 
James (who married Nancy Grable) also reside 

George W. Wherry, son of John and Catherine 
(Weaver) Wherry, was born August 9, 1855, in 
West Bethlehem township, and spent his youth in 
attending school, which was upon his father's 
farm, and in assisting with the farm work. On 
September lit. 1878, he married Lucy B. , a 
daughter of Jacob Myers, an early settler of West 
Bethlehem township. To Mr. and Mrs. Wherry 
have been born six children, viz.; Grayson, born 
April 2, 18 — (who died three days after birth); 
Homer M., born November 27, 1881; Vernon G., 
born September 1, 1884; Warren J., born April 
10,1887; Russell R., born May 27, 1890; and 
Donna L., born October 14, 1892. Mr. Wherry 
enjoys great popularity, and is considered one of 
West Bethlehem's promising young farmers. He 
is a stanch Republican, and takes an active in- 
terest in political questions. He resides on the 
old homestead of Jacob Myers. 



•~\ EV. BANKHEAD BOYD was born in 
County Deny, Ireland, in 1809, a son of 
Hugh and Elizabeth (Scott) Boyd. For a 
brief period he studied the classics, and 
then with his father and mother came to 
America in 1824. The family settled in the bounds 
of the congregation of which afterward he became 
the paste-. In 1829 he graduated at Jefferson 






7? 



"<%& 



s$™^ 




WASHINGTON COUNI'Y 



■■',-1 



College, Canonsburg. He studied theology the 
n>(|uirr(l time (four vkhih) in the Associate Theo 
logical Summary, also near Canonsburg, which in- 
stitution was then under the supervision of Rev. 
.1 aiin-M Ramsey, D.D. He was licensed to preach in 
the summer of 1833, and was installed pastor of 
tli" Seceder Church, Pigeon Creek, in July, 1834. 
This relationship continued pleasant, useful and 
unbroken till his death, February 2, I860, cover 
ing over a quarter of a century. As a sermonizer 
he was clear and methodical, thus greatly aiding 
the hearer in remembering the discourse. He 
sustained every sentiment by Scripture testimony. 
The doctrines he presented were strictly Calvin- 
istic, and were highly calculated to make strong 
Christians in faith and good works. He treated 
sin, and especially Sabbath desecration, in a man 
tier to convince the most callous of their dark and 
degrading character. As a pastor be was honest, 
l';i 1 1 h ful, conscientious. On communion occasions 
he very distinctly outlined the character of the 
worthy partaker of the Lord's Supper. A warm 
friend of the young, his instructions always 
pri'ssed them to walk in the ways of truth and 
righteousness. Whilst it is true that "winter 
storms and summer's thunder can not break the 
sleep of death," yet with many in his old oongre 
gation and community his kind admonitions are 
still fresh and impressive in their influence. As 
the moderator of Session he was calm, decided 
and ever ready to promote whatever would advance 
the spiritual interests of his people. As a presby- 
ter he was esteemed a wise and sale counselor. 
Possessing a cultivated and well stored mind. he 
was chosen a member of the board of managers of 
the theological seminary already alluded to. 

On March 7, 1838, Mr. Boyd was married to 
Margaret, daughter of James and Abigail Hill 
Thome, the former of whom was a member of Ses 
sioti for many years. Five children were born to Mr. 
and Mrs. Bankhead Boyd, viz.: (1) Hugh Wilson 
Boyd, born December 10, 1S|0 (he graduated at 
Jefferson College in 18(53, completed his theolog 
ical course in Allegheny Seminary, in 1868, and 
same year was licensed to preach by Chartiers 
Presbytery. As a licentiate he preached nine 
months in different Presbyteries. While engaged 
in his Master's work he contracted a cold which 
ended in a severe hemorrhage and resulted in his 
death June 12, 1809. "What I do thou knowest 
not now; but thou shalt know hereafter" is the 
Scriptural key that unlocks God's mysterious prov- 
idences). (2) James Thome Boyd, born in July, 
1843, died December 22, 1861. "(3) Robert Erwin 
Boyd, born December 22, 1845, died May IS, is IS. 
(4) Lizzie Scott Bovd, born March 24. 1848, died 
July 2, 1808. (5)* Abigail Thome Boyd is the 
only surviving child, and is the wife of C-irson M. 
Berry (a sketch of whom follows). They reside 



in the old homestead, and are workers in the U. P. 
Sabbath-school and congregation of Pigeon Creek. 
The bodies of those that lime bowed to the sum- 
mons of the Pale Messenger sleep in the beautiful 
cemetery attached to this church. 
[From the pen of Hon. John C. Messenger. 



G BAUSON M. BERRY represents a prominent 
family of South Strabane township. His 
|j grandfather, William (lilmore Berry, was 
born December 2, 1781, in Lancaster 
county, Penn., which locality has been the home 
of the family for many years. 

The parents of William Gilmore Berry came to 
Washington county when ho was a small boy, and 
he there grew to manhood, receiving a good educa 
tion. In 1804 he was married to Jane McConnell, 
who bore him children as follows: John (deceased i, 
William, Matthew, James, Mary (who died during 
the winter of L892 93), Elizabeth, Jane and I'm 
deuce (both deceased). Mr. Berry was among the 
lirst to engage in raising fine bred sheep, espe- 
cially the breed known as Black-Top. He first en- 
tered t hat business in 1821, and was afterward 
recognized as a leading authority in that branch of 
stock raising. In politics he was a Whig, and was 
one of the most pronounced Abolitionists, taking a 
prominent part in till political questions; he served 
several years as u justice of the peace. For many 
years he was a member of and riding elder in the 
Associate Reformed Church at Robinson's Run, to 
which he gave liberal support. In addition to 
general farming, Mr. Berry was interested in a 
flouring mill. About the year 1850 he retired 
from active work, and took up his residence in 
Canonsburg, where he died October 26, 1866; his 
wife passed away February 25, 1848, and they are 
both buried in Canonsburg U. P. Church ceme- 
tery, they having been members of that Church. 

John Berry, son of William G. and Jane (Mc- 
Connell) Berry, was born in 1805 in Cecil town- 
ship, Washington Co., Penn., and received a com- 
mon school education, to which he afterward 
added a valuable store of general knowledge. He 
was married in 182S) to Jane Eagleton, and the 
following children were born to their union: Jane, 
Rachel, William, John M., David W. and Carson 
M. Of these, John M. and David W. were mem- 
bers of Company G, One Hundred and Fortieth P. 
V. I. ; David W. was mortally wounded at the 
battle of Cold Harbor; John M. (still living) was 
wounded in the battle of the Wilderness. After 
his marriage Mr. Berry remained fourteen years in 
Cecil township, and then removed to North Stra- 
bane township, whore he engaged in farming and 
stock raising, also managing a gristmill. His first 
wife died in 1844, and, for his second, he in 1851 
married Mary Barr, who bore him one son, Joseph 



37S 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



(now deceased). In politics John Berry was a 
Whig and Abolitionist, always active in the inter- 
ests of his party. In religious connection he was 
a member of the United Presbyterian Church at 
Pigeon Creek. 

Carson M. Berry was born December 22, 1843, 
in Cecil township, Washington Co., Penn., and 
passed his youth at home and in Canousburg, re- 
ceiving his education in the common schools. On 
November 22, 1871, he was united in marriage 
with Abigail Thome, daughter of Rev. Bankhead 
and Margaret (Thome) Boyd. After marriage Mr. 
and Mrs. Berry settled on the farm in South Stra- 
bane township where they now reside, and three 
children have been born to them: Albeit, Bank- 
head and Lizzie. Mr. Berry is a prominent Re- 
publican, and in religious connection he and his 
family are active members of the U. P. Church. 




OBERT HAWKINS, born in Lancashire 
Comity, England, in 1695, came to America 
in 1715, and in 1710 bought a tract of laud 
of 100 acres of John Miles, of Baltimore 
county, Md. , called "Margarets Mount," 
situated about eight miles from Havre de Grace, 
Md., and near the waters of Deer creek, in what was 
then Baltimore (now Harford) county, Md. In 
1730 he bought another body of about 400 acres 
adjoining the first, of a man named Wells. He 
was married to Lydia Cruchet, of Anne Arundel 
county, Md., in 1739, and continued to live on his 
estate to the extreme age of nearly one hundred and 
six years, his death occurring November 5, 1801; 
his will being made April 1, 1796, and approved 
November 11, 1801. His wife Lydia died about 
1805, aged eighty-five years. Robert Hawkins was 
strongly opposed to England's unjust and arbitrary 
control of the American Colonies, and prior to 
the Revolution ardently advocated a separation 
from the Mother Country. The writer has authen- 
tic information that during the war he gave over 
£2,000 sterling to the support of the Amer- 
ican armies, and sent his three sons into the service 
to battle for the cause of freedom, his second son, 
Robert, Jr., dyiug in Washington's memorable 
camp at Valley Forge; the other sons, Thomas and 
Richard, remained in service until the close of the 
war. Robert and Lydia Hawkins had three sons 
(but no daughters), viz.: Thomas, born in 1741; 
Robert, born in 1745, and Richard, born in 1748. 
Robert, the second son, died while in the Amer- 
ican army, as above referred to; was a sergeant in 
the Maryland line; and left a widow, Elizabeth 
(maiden surname unknown to writer), andoneson, 
also named Robert, who was born December 14, 
1773. He inherited from his grandfather, Robert, 
the remainder of the latter's landed .'state by will 
approved November 11, 1801, which was in part 



as follows, to-wit: "I will and bequeath to my 
wife Lydia all my remaining landed estate during 
her natural life, and then to go to my Grandson 
Robert, son of Robert, Jr., deceased, and to his 
heirs and assigns forever; my sons, Thomas aud 
Richard being provided for, etc." The third Rob- 
ert Hawkins' wife was named Ann (maiden sur- 
name unknown to writer), who was born in 1777, 
and died November 28, 1862. Robert lived on his 
farm in Harford count}', Md., until his death March 
7, 1847, leaving his estate by will to his children. 
The children of Robert and Ann Hawkins were 
Elizabeth, Mary, John, William, and George. Of 
these, Elizabeth married David Silvers; she died 
November 13, 1853. Their home was in Harford 
county, Md. Mary married John W. Hawkins, a 
second cousin, of Columbiana county, Ohio; both 
are still living. John lived on part of the original 
tract in Harford county, Md., and died about 
1880. William, born September 11, 1799, lived 
on a farm near the old home (his wife's name un- 
known to writer); he died September 25, 1889. 
His children were three sons: John S., born De- 
cember 22, 1841; William A., born March 5, 1843. 
and Albert T., born March 24, 1847, all now living 
near Churchville, Harford Co., Md. John S. and 
William A. served in the Federal army during the 
late Rebellion, as members of the Sixth Maryland 
Infantry. George, born March 11, 1809, died in 
South America (date unknown to writer). 

Richard, the third son of Robert and Lydia 
Hawkins, was born in Harford county, Md., in 
1748, and lived on part of the original farm deeded 
to him by his father June 10, 1777. He served in 
the American army from 1778 until the close of 
the war with England. The date of his death is 
unknown to writer. He was married twice; his 
first wife was Elizabeth Cox, who died a few years 
after her marriage. By this marriage he had one 
child, a daughter named Elizabeth, who married 
Gregory Barnes, of Harford county, Md., where 
they resided. 

Elizabeth Barnes died in 1859. They had 
twelve children, of whom only four survive, viz. : — 
Mary, Hosea, James, and Robert A. Mary mar- 
ried a Mr. Bailey; she is uow a widow living with 
her family near the old Hawkins homestead in 
Maryland, Hosea also living near; James lives in 
Mahoning county, Ohio, and Robert A. is a resi- 
denl of Columbiana county, Ohio. Richard 
Hawkins' second wife was Avarilla Durbin (the 
date of her birth and death is unknown to writer). 
Their children were: Robert, Thomas, Casandra, 
Lydia, Hosea, Richard, John, Nancy and William. 
Robert moved to Beallsville, Washington Co., 
Penn., and married Ruth, a daughter of his uncle 

Tl ias Hawkins; he lived on a farm and preached 

for a congregation of the Christian Church, of 
which he was a member; he died May 26, 1851, 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



379 



much lamented by the community. His wife Ruth 
died April 15, 1843. Thomas settled near New 
Lisbon, Columbiana Co., Ohio; married Ho- 
sier, was a wealthy landowner, and lived to an 
advanced age; he has many descendants living in 
Columbiana, Stark and Trumbull counties, Ohio. 
Casaudra married Edward Courtney; both are now 
dead; they lived in Stark county, Ohio. Lydia 
was married to three husbands — Vandegrift, Gal- 
lion and Barbour — and survived them all; they 
lived in Columbiana county, Ohio; she is now 
dead, but left descendants who live in different 
parts of the West. Hosea moved to Ohio, mar- 
ried, and his children and grandchildren still live 
in Stark and neighboring counties of Ohio. Rich- 
ard also moved to Ohio; married Ann Touchstone; 
is now dead; a large number of his descendants 
still live in Ohio and other Western States. John 
and Nancy remained in Maryland; John married 
Mary Vandegrift, but the writer has no further 
knowledge of his family. Nancy married George 
Smith, of Harford Co., Md., and lived near Church- 
ville; both are now dead, she being ninety-eight 
years old at decease; three of her children, viz.: 
Samuel, George and Cassie M., still reside near the 
old homestead; another son, Robert, lives in Vir- 
ginia, and William, a minister, is in Tuscarawas 
county, Ohio; other of her children left descend- 
ants. William died when a boy. 

Thomas Hawkins the eldest son of Robert and 
Lydia Hawkins, was born in 1741 in Harford 
county, Md. , was married in 1763 to Sarah Har- 
grove, of Kent county, Md. ; she was born in 1747. 
Thomas lived on part of his father's farm. In 
1777 he joined the American army as a "sergeant 
of the Maryland line," and remained in the army 
until autumn of 1781, attaining the rank of lieu- 
tenant. During the winter of 1781 he bought of 
William Wilson, of Harford county, Md., a toma- 
hawk right to a tract of land of 220 acres on the 
west side of the Monongahela river, now in the 
borough of Beallsville, Washington county, Penn. 
In the spring of 1782 he removed with his family 
to this western Pennsylvania wilderness, to found 
for himself and children a new home; and here 
surrounded by the original forest, and amid the 
vicissitudes and climatic changes of a newly set- 
tled country; contending for supremacy with the 
wild beasts, and subject to incursions from ma 
rauding bands of Indians, he built his cabin; and 
in the future saw his sons and daughters enjoy the 
comforts he was so anxious to secure. The State 
of Pennsylvania granted Letters Patent to Thomas 
Hawkins for this tract of land called " Smithfield," 
and of the original tract the ownership to 182 
acres has never changed in name, being still owned 
by A. L. Hawkins, a great-grandson. Thomas 
Hawkins died May 15, 1826; his wife Sarah died 
April 15, 1827, and the remains of both lie in the 



family graveyard on the farm. The children of 
Thomas and Sarah Hawkins were: Absalom, Rich- 
ard, Lydia, Elizabeth, Mary, Sarah, William, 
Thomas, Ruth and Ann. 

Absalom Hawkins was born July 21, 1765; mar- 
ried Elizabeth Crawford, daughter of James Craw- 
ford, of Fayette county, Penn. ; Elizabeth was born 
in 1779; he lived on the National pike, near Hills- 
boro in Washington county, Penn., owned a large 
body of valuable land, kept an old time tavern, 
and owned a number of slaves. His children were 
John, Cynthia and Matilda. John and Cynthia 
both died unmarried ; Matilda married John Cooper 
and a daughter was born to them, named Sarah J. 
The husband John Cooper having died, Matilda 
married Thomas Howden, aud both are now dead. 
Sarah J. Cooper married a Mr. Bentley who is now 
dead; she is still living near Monongahela, Wash- 
ington Co., Penn. Absalom Hawkins died July 6, 
1839. Elizabeth, his wife, died March 19, 1824. 
Lydia, daughter of Thomas and Sarah Hawkins, 
born March 2,_ 1773, married Joseph Fowler, of 
Washington county, Penn. ; her children were Will- 
iam and Thomas H. The writer has no knowl- 
edge of William. Thomas H. was a physician, 
aud practiced for many years at Beallsville, Penn.; 
was prominent in his profession; removed to Illi- 
nois in advanced years, and died there. Lydia 
Hawkins Fowler died at Cadiz, Ohio (date un- 
known to writer). Elizabeth, daughter of Thom- 
as and Sarah Hawkins, born February 23, 1775, 
married Alexander McCoy, and moved to a farm 
near New Lisbon, Ohio. Both are now dead. (No 
dates). Their children were: Thomas, Absalom, 
Ruth, Sarah, Matilda, Eliza, Mary, aud a daughter 
whose name is unknown to the writer. 

Mary, a daughter of Thomas and Sarah Haw- 
kins, born November 25, 1776, died April 28, 
1791. Sarah, a daughter of Thomas and Sarah 
Hawkins, born February 26, 1779, died March 9, 
1779. William, son of Thomas and Sarah Haw- 
kins, born November 23, 1780, was married to Ann 
Mosier, who was born in 1784. He lived on a 
farm adjoining the old homestead now in the 
borough of Beallsville, Penn. ; was very successful 
in breeding tine sheep, and was a highly respected 
citizen; owned a large body of fine land; some 
years after the death of his father owning the old 
homestead. His children were: John, Susan, Sarah, 
Mary, Catharine, Rebecca J. aud Eliza. William 
Hawkins died February 8, 1853; his wife, Ann, died 
December 31, 1876. Thomas, son of Thomas and 
Sarah Hawkins, born October 14, 1784, was mar- 
ried to Mary Mosier, who was born in 1794. He 
owned 100 acres of the old homestead bequeathed 
to him by his father. In 1833 he sold this land to 
his brother William, and moved to Columbiana 
county, Ohio, where he resided until his death, 
February 5, 1868; his wife, Mary, died September 



380 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



26, 1885. His children were: William, Noah, John, 
Richard, Jonathan, Thomas, Samuel, James, 
Mary Ann and George. 

Ruth, daughter of Thomas and Sarah Hawkins, 
born July 6, 1789, married Rev. Robert Hawkins; 
they lived in Beallsville, Penu. ; he was a minister 
of the Christian denomination, was highly re- 
spected, and did much good in the community. 
He died May 26, 1851; his wife Ruth died April 
15, I S43. Their children were: Thomas, William. 
Elijah. Gideon, Louisa, Mary, Richard, Avarilla, 
Elizabeth and Robert. Ann, daughter of Thomas 
and Sarah Hawkins, died when a child, caused by 
a fall from a swing (date of birth and death un- 
known). Richard, the second son of Thomas and 
aud Sarah Hawkins, was born August 25, 1770, and 
died February 6, 1856; he married on May 12, 
1S03, Cyuthia, a daughter of James and Sarah 
Crawford, of Jefferson county, Ohio; his wife, 
Cynthia, was born February 8, 1 786, and died 
July 16, 1845. Born in Harford county, Md., he 
at the age of twelve years accompanied his father 
and family to the new home at Beallsville, Penn., 
and worked on the farm until his marriage, when 
he bought of his father 100 acres of his farm, and 
remained there until the spring of 1814, when, 
selling his land to his brother William, he bought 
a farm of 415 acres on the North fork of Ten-Mile 
creek in Greene county, Penu., about two miles 
from its junction with the South fork at Clarks- 
ville, Penn. He lived a peaceful yet active life 
until old age grew on, when he relinquished the 
cares of his farm to bis sons, and spent the last 
years of his life in quiet enjoyment. The children 
of Richard and Cynthia Hawkins were: Absalom, 
Elizabeth, James C, Matilda, Sarah. Richard C, 
Mary A., Casandra, Thomas H, William H, John 
C. and an unnamed infant daughter. 

Absalom, son of Richard and Cynthia Hawkins, 
was born March 4, 1805, and died July 1, 1871; 
married Lydia Nyswaner September 22, 1826, who 
died in 1827, leaving an infant daughter named 
Lydia A., who was born June 16, 1827. She mar- 
ried Rev. A. H. Deaves, and died June 16, 1850, 
without children. Absalom Hawkins married 
Sarah Hawkins (second wife) July 11, 1833; she 
was born July 26, 1806, and died December 29, 
1892, without children. After his second marriage 
he bought, of William Hawkins, the Hawkins 
homestead, at Beallsville, Penn., and lived on it 
until his death. He erected the commodious build- 
ings now on the farm, which were occupied by his 
widow until her death. Elizabeth, daughter of 
Richard and Cynthia Hawkins, born April 8, 1807, 
died January 27, 1859; married to Nelson Green- 
field, who was born February 15, 1832, and died 
August 4, 1S65. Three children were born of 
this marriage, viz. : Crawford, Sarah A. and Cyn- 
thia H. Crawford, born February 24, 1833, died 



July 15, 1834; Sarah A., born April 29 1834, 
died September 4, 1891 (she married Valentine 
Crumrine, and left a family of four children); Cyn- 
thia H. , born March 17, 1845, was married to A. 
L. Hawkins, February 4, 1869. 

Matilda, daughter of Richard and Cynthia Haw- 
ins, born May 5, 1810, died April 15, 1886; mar- 
ried to Isaac Stull, a farmer of East Bethlehem 
township, Washington Co., Penn., who died De- 
cember 26, 1889. Eight children of this family 
are living. Sarah, daughter of Richard and Cyn- 
thia Hawkins, born November 1, 1811, died Sep- 
tember 1, 1S83; married James S. Crawford, a 
farmer near Beallsville, Penn., who died April 3, 
1869. Three children of this family are living: 
One son, Edwin E., died at Nashville, Tenn., Feb- 
ruary 12, 1863, a member of Company K, Fif- 
teenth Pennsylvania Cavalry. Richard C, a son 
of Richard and Cynthia Hawkins, born November 
11, 1814, married Emeline, daughter of Frederick 
and Elizabeth Wise, November 25, 1841; his wife 
was born November 28, 1820; he is a farmer, 
living near Jefferson, Greene county, Penn. ; both 
are still living; they have a family of seven living 
children, all married. Mary A., daughter of 
Richard and Cyuthia Hawkins, born March 17, 
IS] 7, died August 9, 1884, unmarried. Casandra, 
daughter of Richard and Cyuthia Hawkins, born 
January 17, 1819, died May 17, 1841; married to 
Stephen Ulery. One son, Henry H., was born 
May 1, 1841; he was drowned August 21, 1850. 
Thomas H. , son of Richard and Cynthia Haw- 
kins, born January 11, 1821, died January 25, 1892. 
married Emily Parshall; he lived on a farm near 
Fredericktown, Penn. From this marriage nine 
children were born, all living. William H. , son 
of Richard and Cynthia Hawkins, born August 10, 
1823, died October 27, 1885, unmarried. John C, 
son of Richard and Cynthia Hawkins, born De- 
cember 15, 1825, married Lizzie McMurray, June 
8, 1882; no children; both still living, he owning 
his father's farm in Morgan township, Greene 
Co., Penn. 

James C, a son of Richard and Cynthia Haw- 
kins, born October 8, 1808, died January 15, 
1891; married to Margaret, daughter of Frederick 
and Elizabeth Wise, March 24, 1836. Margaret 
(Wise) Hawkins was born October 2, 1818, and 
died January 15, 1892. James C. was born ou 
the old Hawkins' homestead, near Beallsville, 
Penn., remained there with his parents until 1814, 
and with them moved to the new home on Ten- 
Mile creek. He received a good common-school 
education, and some additional training in a select 
school at Beallsville, Penn. Until 1 835 he fol- 
lowed teaching and farm work, and then purchased 
a farm in East Bethlehem township, Washington 
Co., Penn., known as the "Montgomery Patent," 
lying on the waters of North Ten-Mile creek, im- 










X^Cc^jr/^^D i 




WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



383 



mediately adjoining the farm of his father. Soon 
after his marriage, in 1836, he moved on this farm, 
aud carried on farming, sheep breeding, and the 
carding of wool and fulling of cloth. For several 
years he owned a general store in Clarksville, 
Penn., and bought wool for the general market 
for a number of years. He was successful in busi- 
ness, and retired in 1881 from active life (his sons 
assuming his business cares), and moved to a 
home opposite Clarksville, Peun., spending his 
declining years in quiet comfort. He and his wife 
were for many years members of the Baptist 
Church; in 1849 he built a church on his farm, 
and gave it a willing support, leaving by his will 
a generous annuity to its pastor. He was benevo- 
lent, a promoter of public enterprise, and many 
will remember his acts of charity. The children 
of James C. and Margaret Hawkins were as fol- 
lows: Emeline W. , Absalom W. H. , Cynthia A., 
Alex. L., Elizabeth W., James R. and William N. 
Emeline W. , daughter of James C. and Margaret 
Hawkins, was born May 3, 1837, died August 24, 
1864; was married to Jackson L. Thompson June 
26, 1862, and two daughters were born to them, 
named Eldora and Ida, both of whom died in in- 
fancy. Absalom W. H. , son of James C. and 
Margaret Hawkins, born January 22, 1839, died 
November 10, 1876, unmarried; he was graduated 
from Jefferson College, Canonsburg, Penn., in the 
class of 1858, read medicine, graduating at the 
University of Pennsylvania at Philadelphia in the 
spring of 1861; was appointed by President Lin- 
coln an assistant surgeon of the TJ. S. navy in May 
of 1861; in 1863 he was promoted past assistant, 
anil in 1864 full surgeon; he was a ripe scholar, 
speaking aud writing fluently, in addition to the 
English, the French, German and Spanish lan- 
guages. On account of failing health he resigned 
from the navy in 1866, and was killed by the cars 
at Mansfield, Ohio. Cynthia A., daughter of James 
C and Margaret Hawkins, born October 7, 1841; 
unmarried, and since the death of her parents has 
been living with her brother, A. L. Hawkins. [A 
sketch of Alexander L. Hawkins (the next in order 
of birth), son of James C. and Margaret Haw- 
kins, appears further on. ] Elizabeth W., daugh- 
ter of James C. and Margaret Hawkins, born Octo- 
ber 10, 1847, was married to John C. Sargent 
October 7, 1875, and died July 26, 1877, leaving 
a son, Harry H , now in his sixteenth year. James 
R., son of James C. and Margaret Hawkins, born 
October 3, 1852; was married to Decema Addle- 
man, February 28, 1878, and has four children; he 
lives on a farm in West Bethlehem township, 
Washington Co., Penn., and is engaged in breed- 
ing horses. 

William N., son of James C. and Margaret Haw- 
kins, born July 14, 1855, was married to Mary Ada 
Farquhar February 16, 1881, who died February 



26, 1893, leaving five children. William N. owns 
and lives on the old farm of his father, on Ten- 
Mile creek, Washington Co., Penn.; he is exten- 
sively engaged in breeding tine draft horses. 

Alexander L. Hawkins, the subject proper of 
this memoir, was born September 6, 1843. He 
was educated at George's Creek Academy and 
Wayuesburg College, after which he taught school 
two terms. On August 7, 1862, he enlisted in 
Company K, Fifteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, fill- 
ing the various grades of non-commissioned officer 
until the spring of 1864, when he was promoted 
to first lieutenant; in the spring of 1865 he was 
commissioned captain, aud he was mustered out of 
service January 21, 1866. 

He participated in the battle of Antietam, Md., 
and his regiment then being transferred to the 
"Army of the Cumberland,'' he was with that or- 
ganization in its various engagements from " Stone 
River." until the close of the war. After hostili- 
ties ceased, he served on the staff of Maj.-Gen. 
Clinton B. Fisk until mustered out. In the fall 
of 1866 he went into the drug business in Pitts- 
burgh, Penn., continuing for two years, when he 
sold his store, was married and moved on a farm 
in East Bethlehem township, Washington Co., 
Penn. He was elected treasurer of his county in 
1 875, served as such during 1876, 1877 and 1878, and 
then returned to the farm, where he still resides. 
On January 1, 1877, Capt. Hawkins entered the 
National Guard of Pennsylvania as captain of 
Company H, Tenth Regiment; was with his com- 
pany during the riots at Pittsburgh, Penn., in 1877; 
on February 27, 1879, he was elected colonel of 
the regiment; re-elected February 27, 1884, and 
re-elected February 27, 1889, and is still in com- 
mand, being now the senior colonel in the State. 
He was with his regiment under the call of the 
governor of Pennsylvania for three weeks in April 
of 1891, during the labor strike in the coke regions 
of western Pennsylvania; was in command of a 
Provisional Brigade for a month during the strike 
of steel workers at Homestead, Penn., in July and 
August of 1892. 

The children of A. L. aud Cynthia H. Hawkins 
are: Clyde E., Jessie B. and Frank B. Of these, 
Clyde E., born November 16, 1869, entered Wash- 
ington and Jefferson College, leaving at close of 
sophomore year in spring of 1891; was admitted 
as a cadet to the U. S. Military Academy at West 
Point, N. Y., June 1, 1891, by appointment of the 
Secretary of War, on recommendation of Hon. J. 
W. Ray, member of Congress from the Twenty- 
fourth District of Pennsylvania, and he is still 
there. Jessie B., born June 29, 1871, attended 
Beaver College, at Beaver, Penn., for one year; 
entered the sophomore class of the Western Female 
Seminary, Oxford, Ohio, in September, 1890, and 
is now in the class to graduate June 8, 1893. 



384 



w.\siiix<;to.\ county 



Frank B., born July I I. L874, is now in the fresh 
mm class of Washington and Jefferson College. 

\\ bile none of the Hawkins family have attained 
distinction, il is a matter of pride thai from Robert, 
llir founder of the family in America, through the 
generations to the present, they have been quiet, 
law abiding patriotic oitizens, and all loyal to their 
Count ry. 



"T"MIK HALLAM FAMILY, The Eallums de 

Boended from the middle ol asses of England, 

the family there embracing the historian 

I) and the poet, From here are descended 

* Governor Helm, of Kentucky, Secretary 

Bristow, of President Grant's cabinet, President 

Polk and a long roster on both sides of Hie waters, 

who have never broken through the veil of honest 
obscurity, " llallam is the proper way to spell 

tl anie. The substitution of the 'u' instead of 

'a' in the lasi syllable is a corruption growing out 
of the freedom inoident to backwoods life, and Re 
publican simplicity, where heraldry is lost in the 

con mi level. " 

About 177(1 two brothers, William and Henry 
llallam, cut off from ancestral inheritance by the 
laws of entail ami primogeniture, sought to lav 

foundations bj their own enterprise in a field of 

more promise and a wider range than England ex 
tended to the portionless scions of her gentry and 

nobility. Imbued with the broadest spirit of re 
ligious toleration, so deeply rooted in the institu- 
tions of Maryland, they tirsl located in Hagerstown, 
ill that colony. Both married and became heads 
of families. Henry settled in Virginia, William in 
South Carolina, and there became one of the larg 
est planters of his day Both adhered to the fort- 
unes of the colonies, ami beoame Revolutionary 
soldiers. William was oaptured at the battle of 
Germantown, October I, 1777. The British officer, 
to whom he was delivered after capture, insulted 
him and slapped him in the face with his sword, 
hut paid the penalty of his temerity with his life, 
for the brave cavalier shot him dead instantly, and 

made good his escape. After peace was declared 

he settled in South Carolina. He was a cultured 
gentleman of the old school brood, enlightened and 
liberal, and in his will cut through the laws of 
primogeniture and divided his property equally 
among a large family of sous ami daughters, 
In that tide of emigration which came pouring 

its westward llood BOrOSS the Alleghanies after the 
Revolution came William. Henry, John and Andrew 
Hallam, to the frontier settlement of Tennessee in 

I 795, and they settled on the historic Cumberland, 
ill what is now designated as Smith county. Tenn . 
all sons of Henry, the l\ evolutionary sire; and with 
them came Kachel, daughter of William, the 
soldier, and wife of her cousin William, the 



pioneer. All were possessed of courage and marked 

individuality of character, and all were stanch 
friends ami supporters of Gen. Jackson. De 
Boended from these brothers may be here men- 
tioned, prominent of the present generation, Sena- 
tor llallam, of Kentucky; John Hallam, the jurist 
and historian, of Arkansas, and a long list of emi 
uent lawyers, doctors and divines, besides others 
previously referred to. 

Joseph Hallam (grandfather of the Hallam 

brothers in Washington), who was descended from 
the Hagerstown branch, was born on the farm now 
owned by John (i. Clark, of Franklin township, 
Washington county- His parents had come hither, 
bringing slaves with them, and died in I his county. 
Joseph entered the hotel business and became pro- 
prietor of the old ''Valentine House" Inowthe 
"Allison"), and died in the borough of Washing 
ton. He was married in Washington county to a 
Miss Zediker, and they reared a family of children 
as follows: Lewis, father of the llallam brothers of 
Washington; John, living in South St ra bane town- 
ship, this county ; George, deceased ; Joseph, who 
allied himself wit h the ( 'oufedei ntcs. and remained 
in the South; Levina, deceased wife of William 
Wolf; Elizabeth, deceased \vifj> of James MeGui 
gan, also deceased; and Mrs. Hamilton Todd, 

of Richmond, I ml. 

Lewis llallam was a blacksmith by trade, and 
ran line teams over the National pike from Haiti 
more to the Ohio river, for the transportation of 
merchandise, and owned some of the finest teams 
that ever traveled over the road. He married 
Ivosanna Teagarden, of West Kinley township, 
and they then took up their home in Washington. 
They reared a family of eleven children, namely: 
Levina, wife of George II. Thurston, of Washing 
ton; Elizabeth, deceased wife of Hon. J. S. Stock 

ing; Sophia, widow of George E, Parshall, of 
Washington; Joseph; George T. ; Rosanna, at home; 
Lewis F.; Fin ley B. ; John \\\; Charles F. ; and 
Hubert 11., all in Washington. The seven brothers 
in this family comprise the tirins of It. T. Hal- 
lam A; Sons, general contractors; Hallam Bros., 
proprietors of livery and dealers in ice, etc; Kin 
ley B. Hallam, attorney at law; and Robert H. 
Hallam, merchant. On November 27, 1878, the 
father died. At the breaking out of the Civil war 
he (dosed his business in Washington and took up 
the manufacture of wagons for the National Gov- 
ernment in Wheeling, W. Va. At the close of the 
struggle he returned to Washington and again 
built up a large business. He was originally a 
pronounced Whig. Abolitionist, ami later B Re 
publican, but was never an active politician. After 
In-- death, his widow, with her sons, continued the 
business until in August, 1891, when she passed 
from earth. 

Finley B. Hallam was boru November 25, L856, 



ASHINOTON COl \ M 



885 



aj Monongahela, Penn., where his parents « 

living al the time. He was eduoated at the com 
moil Bohoola n|> to eleven years of age, and then 
beoame a olerh at the old news < 1<»| >* >t for liis 
brother in law, J. S. Stocking. Be oarried a news 
route and learned telegraphy, the old Paoifio & 
Atlantic Telegraph office being in the same room. 
.1. s Stooking was the manager, hut Finlej B in 
reality managed the business. After a time be 
gave up telegraphing, and toot the position "I Line 
man, repairing lincH half way From Washington to 
Pittsburgh and Wheeling and Brownsville, He 

i tinued in this until the absorbing of bhe 

business hy the Western Union. Il<> had made ii|) 
several studies while working, and after oeasing 

li an's work he entered ( 1ST.!) Washington and 

Jefferson College, Here be remained a short ti , 

and then wiih with the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad 
Company, as telegraph operator, at Bandpatoh, 
Oonnellsville, Broadford and Pittsburgh, in a Few 
months reaohing the management of the laHi office, 
the iimihI important on the road, Two years later 
he returned and entered the class of 1870 as Fresh 

man, he having made- i ■ i > studios, and at the < i 

pletion <>f the year, his funds being gone, be 
resumed telegraphy, Going l" the upper oil 
country, be t < >< > k a position in the office <>( t ho 

superintendent of the Oolumbia C luil Pipe Line 

Company, al Petrolia, filling also a temporary 
oharge of the Pittsburgh and Parker office, of same 
line, in the winter of L876 77 be left the Golum 
bia Conduit and entered the servioe of the United 
Pipe Line (Standard), taking oharge of a large 
pump station at North Washington, Butler county; 

there he remained a short time, and tl went, in 

the spring of 1877, to the A.rgyle Pump station, 

at, Petrolia. As the result of the absorpl bj 

the " United" of Antwerp, Atlantic ami others, in 
Clarion county, he went to St. Petersburg (same 
oounty), headquarters for that district, li rut as 
telegraph operator, and then as bookkeeper Eor the 
Bame company, A few months later be was made 
chief bookkeeper, of eight or ten men, In the 
summer of 1878, in consequence of the exceptional 

growth of the Bradford field, the work I ame too 

heavy for one office, and so the Bradford field wiih 
cut in two, and the headquarters of the second 
division were made at Olean, N. ST., near the Penn 

Hylvuniu line. Mr. Ilallam was then called hy the 

general manager of the line to take control of the 

I (lean headquarters, having exolusfc harge of all 

accounts, with a large force of assistants. While 

his promotion was exceptional, he was the young 

est bookkeeper in the business. Having wived 
sufficient money to see himself through oollege, 
and having kept up Imh reading and study, he re 
Bigned his position in the fall of 1878, returned 
to oollege, entering the sophomore (-lass, and fin- 

ished with the class of 1NS1. He led hiaelaHH, hut 



from someoause, tirst I r was no1 awarded him, 

though second honor was offered him, which he 
declined to accept, feeling that he descried first. 

He was given the salutatory address, hut declined 
to make it, and wiih consequently suspended for 

insubordination, his diploma and degree b g 

withheld, A man high in oollege affairs Baid to 

Mr. Ilallam: "While tirst honor had by accident 

been nominally awarded to another man, \et your 

classmates, the faculty and everybody connected 

with the oollege will ever regard you aH first bonor 

man of the class of 188] ." 

His funds again gone, and the Mutual Union 
Telegraph Company having extended a new enter 
prise in competition with the Western Union, Mr. 
Hallam was offered by the officials the position of 

elect i iii.i 11 and circuit manager With i Irol as su 

pel iiilendi'iit from ( 'n mhei land, Mil., to Cincinual I. 
Ohio, with electrical headquarters at \\ ashington, 

Penn, Here he remained fifteen months, when be 
was called to Washington, l>. <'., and placed in 
oharge of the company's affairs there, and all 
points from Philadelphia to Cincinnati. He re 
mained during the celebrated strike of commercial 
telegraphers, at the termination of winch he re 
signed his position, gave up the telegraph busi 

ness, and resui I the study of law at Washington 

Penn., winch he had inoidentallj pursued while in 
oollege, He was admitted to the bar of Washing 
ton county, November term, 1884, and bas sinoe 
continued in praotioe, bis office being in the Mm- 
dooh Building. In January, 1885, oil developed, 
and he engaged in the oil business, leasing many 

fields, and drilling many wells. He whh o I the 

plaintiffs in the equity suit against tlm Union Com 

pan\ <7 .(/., for the oil rights Of the I >a\ is properly 
in South Strabane township, which produced 

11,000,000 worth of oil, and whioh suit is Hlill 
pending, In the oil businesBof Washington oounty, 

lie was ill a company composed of leading and 

ue.dt by business men. 

Politically Mr. Ilallam has been a worker in the 
Bepublioan rankB since a hoy, working tor Imh 
parti earnestly; was secretary of the oounty com 

nnllee in L891, and c Irihuled much in time and 

money to the success of his party nominees, lii 
1892 he wiih candidate for the office of district at 
torney in Washington county, but the nomination 
was given to Mr. W. S. Parker, who had served 

term. Kv the House ol Representatives ol 

Harrisburg (of 1891 to L898) Mr, Ilallam was 

elected I laiiscri hi lie; olei k ol the House, which po 

sitioii In- held to the close of the session, 

In I) mber, 1890, Finley B, Ilallam was mai 

ried to Miss Rosa Alha, daughter of Dr Charles 
Teagarden, of Tyler, Tex. Her grandfather, Dr. 

Oswin Teagarden, a double sin of the mother 

of Pinley B, Ilallam, her husband, was general 
purchasing agenl of medical stores for the Southern 



38C3 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Confederacy, and his most intimate associates and 
friends were Jefferson Davis and Senator Reagan. 
Mrs. Hallam's mother was Florence Johnson, 
daughter of Dr. Johnson, of a well-known Southern 
family whose ancestry is traced to Dr. Samuel 
Johnson, the first of all lexicographers. No chil- 
dren have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Hallam. 

John W. Hallam, general contractor, Washing- 
ton, was born in that borough, February 24, 1850. 
At the age of ten years he commenced work as a 
clerk in a clothing store in his native city, where 
he remained until he was fifteen years of age, when 
he embarked for his own account in the general 
grocery business, being at that remarkably early 
age proprietor of a store in the borough for about 
three years. At the end of that time he sold out, 
and traveling South and West, spent a year from 
home. At the age of twenty years he began tak- 
ing upon himself the responsibility of accepting 
contracts for various improvements in and about 
Washington, which was the nucleus to his present 
extensive business in that line. His brother had 
united with him, and since 1887 the firm name has 
been " R. T. Hallam & Sons," John W. being 
general manager and principal of the establish- 
ment. The line of work engaged in has been 
chiefly stone foundations, paving, sewer building, 
etc., and no firm in Washington county is better 
or more favorably known than this one for thor- 
ough and reliable work. During the year 1891 
they contracted for and completed some 49,000 
square yards of street paviug, 30,000 feet of curb- 
ing and nine miles of sewers in the borough of 
Washington, besides some 5,000 yards of paving 
in Monongahela, amounting in all to over $200,01)0 
of work. 

On February 25, 1887, Mr. Hallam married 

Miss Katie H. , daughter of and Rebecca 

Brady, of Washington, and one son, Harold Her- 
bert, has blessed this union. Mr. Hallam is a Re- 
publican, and has for six years served as a mem- 
ber of the borough council, his first election to any 
office being when he was but twenty-two years of 
age. Socially, he is a member of the I. O. H. and 
Jr. O. U. A. M. He has taken an active interest 
in all movements tending to the advancement of 
his native town, and has served as one of the di- 
rectors of the Chamber of Commerce of Washing- 
ton. As a man of thorough business principle, he 
is respected by all who know him, and of his per- 
sonal habits it may be said of him that in no form 
does he use tobacco, and never during his life has 
he tasted liquor of any kind. 

Robert H. Hallam, merchant tailor, Washing- 
ton, is a native of the borough, born July 24, 
ISO"). His education was obtained at the public 
schools of the place, after which for six years 
In' rlerked for Thomas Morgan, dealer in dry 
goods. In 1888 he opened out a merchant tailor- 



ing aud gents' furnishing establishment in Oak 
Hall, No. 20 North Main street. Washington, 
which establishment is allowed to be the best in 
the place, in that particular line. Mr. Hallam 
is one of the enterprising business men of Wash- 
ington, wide-awake and progressive. In politics 
he is a live, active Republican. In church mat- 
ters he is an Episcopalian; socially he is a mem- 
ber of the I. O. H. He lives at the old Hallam 
homestead on East Beau street. 

Lewis F. Hallam, a member of the well-known 
livery establishment of Hallam Bros., at Wash- 
ington, was born February 28, 1855, in Washing- 
ton county, Penn. He learned and followed the 
blacksmith's trade for several years, then drove 
teams, and in 1878 embarked in the ice business, 
shipping from Wheeling, W. Va. On February 7, 
1878, he was united in marriage with Jennie, 
daughter of Hugh Hallam, of Washington county, 
Penn., and she has borne him four children, as 
follows: Garnet, Jay, Opal and Baby. In 1880 
Mr. Hallam opened the livery establishment, which 
has been most prosperous, and he has also been 
interested in oil wells, besides carrying on a busi- 
ness in sand and stone. In political opiniou he is 
a stanch supporter of the principles embodied in 
the Republican party, and socially he is a member 
of the I. O. H. 



DONALDSON FAMILY. A biographical rec- 
) ord of the pioneer residents of Washington 
/ county would be incomplete, were not prom- 
inent mention made of the Donaldson fam- 
ily of Robinson township, who have been intimately 
connected with every movement tending to the ad- 
vancement of the interests and welfare of the com- 
munity at large. The first member of this prominent 
family, of which we have a record, was one James 
Donaldson, who came from Ireland to America in 
early pioneer times. He settled on a farm in Wash- 
ington county, and accumulated considerable prop- 
erty. He left the following children: Thomas, 
Andrew, John, Richard, and four daughters, the 
names of two of them being Elizabeth and Jane. 

Andrew Donaldson, the second son in the above- 
named family, was born in 1789, and reared in 
Washington county, attending school at the log 
schoolhouse with its slab benches, puncheon floor, 
greased paper in lieu of window panes, and other 
primitive contrivances which served to answer the 
purposes of our modern articles of school furni- 
ture. In early manhood he married Miss Jane 
McBurney, who was born May 23, 1793, daughter 
of John McBurney, a resident of this county. They 
began wedded life on a farm located midway be- 
tween Bavington and North Star, where they lived 
about twenty-nine years and reared children as 
follows: Sally, Jane, Mary Ann, Elizabeth 




' /f\ 



tite**-** 




f/CL^-^<4 -j^l^^iXo^^ 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



389 



(deceased), Esther (deceased), James, John M., Mar- 
garet, Thomas and one deceased in infancy. Andrew 
Donaldson was a counselor and adviser of the 
Democratic party, and held several township of- 
fices. In religious faith he was for many years a 
member and ruling elder of the Associate Reformed 
Church, which afterward became a part of the 
Robinson United Presbyterian Church. He died 
in 1843, in his fifty- fourth year, deeply mourned 
by the entire community. 

James Donaldson was born October 25, 1828, on 
the old homestead in this county, receiving in the 
country schools the basis of an education which he 
afterward acquired by private study of all availa- 
ble and useful books. On March 27, 1851, he was 
united in marriage with Miss Elizabeth Bigger 
(also a resident of this county), born October 25, 
1826, a daughter of Samuel Bigger, whose father, 
Thomas Bigger, came from Ireland in early pio- 
neer days. James and Elizabeth (Bigger) Donald- 
son after marriage settled on the Crawford farm, 
where they still remain. They have had children 
as follows: Andrew, Samuel Bigger, Jane E., 
Thomas R. , Matthew J. and John M. , of whom 
Samuel B. is married to Miss Jean Newell, daugh- 
ter of Rev. John Newell, D. D., of Allegheny 
county, Penn. Mr. Donaldson has been a very 
successful business man, for one who began life in 
comparatively ordinary circumstances, and he now 
owns over 230 acres of very tine land, upon which 
a beautiful dwelling has been erected. He is an 
ardent member of the Democratic party. He was 
the candidate of the Democratic party for Assem- 
bly: first in 1868, and was defeated by fourteen 
votes; again, in 1872, he was candidate of same 
party for same office, but was again defeated, his 
District being largely Republican. It may be here 
added that at the time Mr. Craig was nominated, 
Mr. Donaldson's name was selected by the confer- 
ees of his own county in connection with the nom- 
ination for Congress, but he refused to allow it to 
go before the meeting of conferees, whereupon Mr. 
Craig's name was selected and made the unanimous 
choice of the convention. He has served many 
years as justice of the peace, and has held several 
township offices. Being a popular and much re- 
spected citizen, a genial gentleman and sympa- 
thetic friend, Mr. Donaldson is frequently asked 
for counsel and advice by many of his acquaint- 
ances. He possesses deep religious views, a strong 
personality, and has been a consistent member and 
liberal supporter of the Robinson United Presby- 
terian Church. 

John M. Donaldson was born July 25, 1831, on 
the farm of his father, and grew to manhood, as- 
sisting with the farm duties. In 1855 he was mar- 
ried to Miss Martha M. Bigger, and then settled 
on the farm where they are now living, which in 
connection with 109 acres presented to them by 



Mrs. Donaldson makes them a home of 2i9 acres. 
To this union the following children have been 
born: Andrew, born February 18, 1856; JaneM., 
born August 20, 1857; Thomas B., born July 28, 
1859; Sarah C, born April 16, 1861; Mary E., 
born January 28, 1864; Emmett T. (deceased), 
born August 26, 1865; Elizabeth H. , born March 
3, 1867; James W., born February 16, 1S69; Mar- 
garet B., born February 23, 1870; Richard M., 
born April 27, 1873, and Holland H., born August 
16, 1876. In politics Mr. Donaldson has always 
been a strong member of the Democratic party, 
and cast his first vote for Franklin Pierce. He has 
been an active worker and elder in the United 
Presbyterian Church for twenty-five years, and is 
a citizen of whom any community might well be 
proud. 



/ 



HAMILTON McKINNEY BELL, usually 
known as "H. K. Bell," is one of the most 
successful farmers and business men of 
Morris township, Washington county. Ham- 
ilton Bell (great-grandfather of the subject 
of this sketch) emigrated from Ireland to America 
some years prior to the Revolutionary war. His 
son Hamilton (whose commission is still in the 
possession of his grandson, Hamilton McKinney) 
was an officer in the Revolutionary army; he mar- 
ried Miss McKinney, a Scottish lady. Both father 
and son died of yellow fever in 1808. 

Raphield Bell, father of Hamilton McK. Bell, 
was born March 7, 1807, in the same house where 
his ancestors died, in Buffalo township, Washing- 
ton Co., Penn., on the farm now owned by Thomas 
Boone. His school advantages were very limited, 
but by perseverance he managed to secure a fair 
education for that period, and he subsequently 
taught school. He learned the trade of a mill- 
wright, and for some time owned and managed the 
"Graham Mill," now known as the "Hague Mill," 
in Buffalo township. He was married to Margaret 
Woods (born May 15, 1814), of Washington county, 
Penn., daughter of Nathaniel and Margaret Welch 
Woods, both natives of Ireland, the former of 
whom was a soldier in the war of 1812. Raphield 
and Margaret (Woods) Bell had eight children, of 
whom the following is a brief record: Hamilton 
McKinney is the subject of this sketch; Eliza Jane 
is the wife of James Patterson, of Peters township, 
this county; Sample Swaney is an invalid, having 
been injured at Gettysburg, July 2, 1863, and is 
now residing in Claysville, this county; Hazlett 
M is an undertaker in Finleyville, Union township, 
Washington county (was wounded at Chancellors- 
ville, May 3, 1863, by the explosion of a shell); 
Joseph Thompson is a carpenter, residing in Clays- 
ville; R. T. and James M. are millwrights, both 
also being residents of Claysville; Theodore Fre- 



390 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



linghuyeon died February 20, 1849, aged one year 
and nineteen days. The father died August 15, 
1872, aged sixty-rive years, rive mouths and eight 
(lavs, and the mother September 30, 1834, aged 
forty years, four months and fifteen days. 

Hamilton McKinney Bell was born May 30, 
1!S37, in Buffalo township, Washington Co.,Penn., 
near the route of the Hempfield Railroad, now 
called the Wheeling and Pittsburgh Division of 
the Baltimore & Ohio railroad. In early life he 
had learned of his father the trade of a millwright, 
and from 1N,">3 to 1855 he conducted a grocery 
atore at Ewings Mills, in Chartiers township, now 
called "Meadow Lands." After leaving the gro- 
cery business Mr. Bell began to learn more thor- 
oughly his trade, and followed the business of 
millwrighting until his enlistment, August 22, 
L861, at Wheeling, W. Va., in Company B, First 
West Virginia Volunteer Cavalry (for three years 
or during the war; but he served his country three 
years and five months on his first enlistment), which 
was led by Capt. Farabee, subsequently by Capt. 
H. P. Boon; said company was composed princi- 
pally of men from Washington and Greene coun- 
ties, Penn. Our subject was a duty Bergeant at 
the organization of said company, and was pro- 
moted to commissary-sergeant and afterward to 
quartermaster-sergeant. He was mustered in at 
Camp Carlisle on the island in the Ohio river, 
Wheeling, W. Va. , and took part in several battles, 
among which may be mentioned Blumery Furnace, 
Winchester, Port Republic, second Bull Run, and 
several other engagements; was taken prisoner at 
Berlin, Penn., June 30, 1863, by the Seventeenth 
Virginia Confederate Cavalry, and from there was 
taken to Gen. Early's headquarters in Berlin, 
where he was questioned by the General concern- 
ing the past and present movements of the Fed- 
erals; but true to the country which was dearer to 
him than liberty or life, the brave soldier turned a 
deaf ear to all questions of the Confederate leader, 
only replying: ''I am not commanding the army 
of the Potomac.'' He then asked the General if 
he. knew the nature of the oath a United States 
MiMier was required to take, to which the latter 
replied that he did. Mr. Beli then remarked to the 
General that it was not befitting either a gentleman 
or a soldier to endeavor to get a prisoner of war to 
perjure himself by giving the enemy any intelli- 
gence of the movements of an army that he knew 
of; whereupon Gen. Early said: "I will not ask 
liiiu any more questions. " Mr. Bell was then 
turned over to the Fifth "Louisiana Tigers,'' and 
while a prisoner he witnessed the three-days' right 
at Gettysburg, employing his time during the first 
day in helping to dress the wounds of his fellow- 
prisoners and directing them to hospitals. On the 
evening of the third day of the battle, he, with 
about fourteen hundred other prisoners, was sent 



uuder a Hag of truce to Carlisle, Penn., arriving 
within our lines July 4; thence weut to parole 
camp at West Chester, Penn., on July 5, 1803, and 
finally to Camp Stoneman to be remounted and 
equipped for duty. He was honorably discharged 
January 21, 1865, and returning home settled in 
Prosperity, Morris township, whither he had come 
prior to his enlistment. Here he resumed his 
trade of a millwright, but was soon compelled to 
abandon it on account of ill health, having con- 
tracted asthma during the war. On June 3, 1868, 
Mr. Bell was united in marriage with Miss Eliza- 
beth Ann, daughter of Simeon McClain, of Frank 
lin township, this county, who was a son of John 
McClain, Esq. , and brother of James McClain and 
John McClain, Jr. 

Mr. Bell has been for the past twenty five years 
engaged in the banking and money-loaning busi- 
ness, in which he has been successful. He is 
temporarily residing on his Highland farm, on the 
road leading from Prosperity to Sparta, in Morris 
township. Washington Co., Penn. In politics he 
is a war Democrat, and with his wife is an active 
member of the Presbyterian Church of Upper Ten- 
Mile. 




S. H. KEYS, M. D., the oldest practicing 
physician in Monongahela, traces his line- 
age to Hibernian ancestry. His grand- 
father was born in Ireland, and in an early 
day set sail for the New World. After ar- 
riving in America he located permanently on a 
place now known as the Miller farm, near Bealls- 
viile, Washington Co., Penn. Politically he voted 
with the Democratic party, and in religion was a 
member of the Episcopal Church. His children 
were Andrew, Thomas and Hugh. 

Hugh Keys was born in 1790, in the "Emerald 
Isle," and with his parents came to America where 
he learned the shoemaker's trade. In 1810 he was 
married to Elizabeth Irwin, a native of Maryland, 
whose parents died when she was very young. The 
newly wedded couple first located in Baltimore, 
Md., then moved to Hillsborough, Washington 
Co., Penn., where he conducted a hotel for many 
years. He finally moved to Fayette county, Penn., 
and there followed his trade for several years. He 
was actively identified with the Democratic party, 
and held various local offices, having in 1840 been 
elected canal commissioner under Van Bureu, 
which position he held until his death. He was a 
leading member of the Episcopal Church. He died 
in October, 1841, his widow on January 23, 1886, 
in her ninety-sixth year. They were the parents 
of the following children: Mary, wife of James 
Thompson, of Beallsville; William; Margaret, 
married to R. S. H. Henderson, of Lawrence coun- 
ty, Penn. ; Andrew, in Fayette county; Sarah, 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



391 



married to Nelson Randolph, also of Fayette 
county; John; Christian; George; James; Hugh; 
R. S. H. and Thomas, all now deceased except 
Andrew and R. S. H. 

Dr. R. S. H. Keys was bora March 12, 1832, in 
Fayette county, Penn. When twelve years of age 
he left home, first entering the general merchandise 
store of E. C. Roddy, in Upper Middletown, Fay- 
ette county, and then worked for his brother, John 
Keys, M. D. , at Bentleyville. Washington county, 
remaining there several years. He finally entered 
his brother's office, and after studying medicine 
anil dentistry for about seven years, took his 
brother's place. On August 23, 1856, Dr. Keys 
married Elizabeth, daughter of John and Julia 
Holland, of Bentleyville, and continued to reside 
in Bentleyville until 1862. He was then commis- 
sioned lieutenant of Company D, Twenty-second 
Pennsylvania Cavalry, and went to West Virginia 
and the Shenandoah Valley, but returned to Bent- 
leyville the same year. In the spring of 1863 he 
came to Monongahela, where he has since followed 
his profession with eminent success. He is a 
stanch advocate of the principles embodied in the 
Democratic party, and has served as a member of 
the school board of the city. In religious faith he 
is a member of the Episcopal Church. To his 
marriage with Elizabeth Holland the following 
children were born: Julia, wife of George R. 
Smith, of San Francisco, Cal. ; Lizzie, wife of 
Charles Oldtield, also of San Francisco; Harry K., 
in the West; John, a boatman on the Monongahela; 
Vol. O., Catherine and Sophia, all three deceased; 
and James Stockdale, at home. The mother of 
this family died September 6, 1881. and for his 
second wife Dr. Keys married, June 6, 1883, Mrs. 
Emeline Howe (a native of Monongahela), widow 
of Maj. S. B. Howe (to whom she was married in 
1864), and daughter of Ira R. Butler, of Carroll 
township, this county. Maj. S. B. Howe was a 
native of Washington county, Penn. , born May 2, 
1835, was educated in California, same county, 
and there learned the trade of brick molding, 
which he followed several years. He served dur- 
ing the war of the Rebellion, having enlisted in the 
First West Virginia Veteran Cavalry at its organi- 
zation, and was soon promoted to second lieutenant 
and captain, respectively, in which latter rank he 
distinguished himself in many hard-fought battles 
of the years 1863-64. In the campaign of 1864 
he was selected and detailed by Gen. Averill to 
command the company of scouts, in which capacity 
he performed some of the most daring exploits of 
the war, and received the highest encomiums from 
the commanding general. In February, 1865, he 
was commissioned major, and immediately, in 
command of the First Regiment West Virginia 
Veteran Cavalry, started on the great raid of Gen. 
Phil. H. Sheridan up the Shenandoah Valley and 



to the James river. After this historic event he 
performed, among other prodigies of valor and 
generalship, at Little Sailor's creek, an important 
part, his brigade making the best and most success- 
ful charge of the war, capturing Gen. Ewell and 
his entire corps, cannon, battle-flags, etc. ; in 
fact, it is said of him that he was "second to no 
regimental commander." At Appomattox Court- 
house, April 8, 1865, he was killed at the close of 
that obstinate engagement, at the hour of mid- 
night, whilst gallantly leading his regiment in his 
final charge, and the following day Gen. Lee sur- 
rendered. 

Dr. Keys now confines himself to city practice, 
and at special points on the line of railroad, hav- 
ing practically retired from country work, it being 
too fatiguing. He is a Knight Templar. 



I JI(ISS NANCY SHERRARD, for nearly 
\f/\ twenty years principal of the Washington 
■! I (Penn.) Female Seminary, is a native of 
I - 1 Ohio, born in Jefferson county. Her 
/ parents were Robert A. and Jane Sher- 

rard, the former of whom was well known in the 
community in which he lived, and was noted for 
his upright character and earnest convictions of 
duty, the latter a woman of much strength of char- 
acter. From both parents Miss Sherrard inherited 
strong religious impressions, which have always 
been carried into her life. After attending the 
public schools of her native county, she entered 
the Steubenville (Ohio) Female Seminary in 1847, 
and was graduated from that institution in 1851. 
After an extended experience as a teacher in 
seminaries and other excellent schools, she was, 
in 1874, elected principal of the Washington 
Female Seminary, entering upon her duties in 
September of the same year. 

This excellent and time-honored school was 
established in 1836. From that time until the 
present it has always had the reputation of keep- 
ing abreast with other institutions of its class. It 
has been noted for the excellence of its teachers in 
all departments, and the Christian influences which 
have been exerted in the school and which have 
gone out from it. The school has steadily in- 
creased in numbers and influence, until the cata- 
logue for 1892-93 shows a larger attendance than 
ever before. 



QH. P. CHRISTMAN, M. D., a leading 
homoeopathic physician in the county, with 
residence in Washington, is a native of the 
Keystone State, having been born in Upper 
Uwchlan township, Chester county, Febru- 
ary 12, 1859. His ancestors on the mother's side 
came to this country from Maxton Parish, in Scot- 



392 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



land, and settled in Chester count)' some two hun- 
dred years ago, his great great grandfather, George 
Maxton, having been the keeper of the once famous 
hostelry known as the "Yellow Springs" Inn, at 
one time a fashionable health resort, at which place 
he had the honor of entertaining George Washing- 
ton. Our subject's ancestors on the father's side 
came to this country from Schleswig-Holstein (then 
a province of Prussia), landing at Philadelphia 
September 15, 1730; they also settled in Chester 
county, and became a prominent family in the 
affairs of the county. 

William Davis Christman, father of Dr. Christ- 
man, a native of Chester county, served with dis- 
tinction in the Union army. He married Zilpha 
A. Maxton, of the same place, and they became 
the parents of three children, viz. : Cora (who died 
in young womanhood), G. H. P. and Frederick B., 
the latter at this time (1893) being engaged in bus- 
iness in Chicago. 

The subject of this sketch passed his boyhood 
and youth principally in West Chester, Chester 
county, receiving his education in the common 
schools and graduating at the high school (being 
the only male member of his class); he also re- 
ceived private instruction from Prof. Franklin 
Taylor, late superintendent of the schools of Phil- 
adelphia. In 1877 he commenced the study of 
medicine in West Chester under Dr. Joseph E. 
Jones, a graduate of the University of Pennsylva- 
nia; then entered the Hahnemann Medical College, 
Philadelphia, graduating with honors March 10, 
1881, and afterward attended lectures in New York. 
At Baltimore, Md., and at Wilmington, Del., he 
was assistant to well-known physicians of those 
places. He practiced medicine in Philadelphia 
for a time, and came to Washington, Penn. , in 
1890, where he has since been engaged in a lucra- 
tive practive which is rapidly expanding. Polit- 
ically the Doctor is a straight Republican, and 
while a resident of West Chester was especially 
active in the interests of his party. The Doctor is 
unmarried and resides with his parents. 



tion, 



JfOHN M. FULTON, dentist, Washington, is 
a native of the county, born in South Strabane 
| township, July 14, 1858, a son of Samuel 
Fulton, also a native of South Strabane town- 
ship. The family are of Scotch-Irish extrac- 
and John Fulton, grandfather of subject, 
came to this county in an early day, settling in the 
original township of Strabane, where he died. He 
had married Hannah McMillan, granddaughter of 
John McMillan, who founded the college at Can- 
onsburg. She died in 1891 at the age of seventy 
years, the mother of the following children: Sam- 
uel (deceased); James R., in South Strabane town- 
ship; Thomas, in Illinois; William and John, both 



in South Strabane township; Elizabeth, wife of 
William Pry, in Virginia; Belle and Robert. The 
grandfather, John Fulton, died in 1869, at the age 
of fifty-nine years. 

Samuel Fulton received a liberal education at 
the common schools of his native township, and at 
Jeffersou College, where he took a literary course 
and graduated in the class of 1857. He then 
studied dentistry in Washington, and subsequently 
entered into partnership with one Robertson, in 
1866, which continued for a short time when he 
bought out his partner's interest in the business, 
and continued with eminent success up to his 
death, which occurred February 11, 1890, when 
aged fifty-seven years, the result of an attack of 
the ''grip." He was originally a Democrat, but 
in the later years of his life was a pronounced Pro- 
hibitionist. In 1857 he was married to Miss Mar- 
garet J., daughter of John Rankin, of North 
Strabane township, and five children were born to 
them, as follows: John M. (subject of sketch); 
Mary Hannah, wife of Rev. John Scouller, in 
northwestern Pennsylvania; Ollie Belle (married 
to George Walker), now deceased; Anna H. and 
Ada M., the last named dying from the effects of 
the "grip." The mother is yet living in Wash- 
ington. 

John M. Fulton, the subject proper of this mem- 
oir, received a thorough common-school training, 
and began studying his profession in his father's 
office. In 1879 he entered the Pennsylvania Den- 
tal College at Philadelphia, from which he gradu- 
ated in 1881, and he then at once commenced the 
practice of dentistry in Washington, in partnership 
with his father, which existed until the latter's 
death, since when our subject has continued the 
business alone. He is well skilled in his business, 
and has a wide circle of friends. On December 4, 
1883, Dr. Fulton was married to Elizabeth, daugh- 
ter of John E. and Julia A. (Winters) Bell, of Wash- 
ington, to which union two children have been 
born — John Donnan and Samuel Floyd. The Doc- 
tor is a member of the Second Presbyterian Church, 
and in politics is a Democrat. 



The Bell family are prominent in Washington 
county. Thomas Bell and Agnes Scott were mar- 
ried February 3, 1814, and became the parents of 
ten children, whose names and dates of birth are 
as follows: Robert, Mareh 3, 1818; William, Octo- 
ber 23, 1820; John E., September 24, 1822; 
Rachel, August 2, 1824; Josiah S., June 23, 1826; 
Thomas O, Julv 24, 1828; Esther, January 13, 
1831; Violet, August 5, 1832; Boyd and James. 
Of these, John E. married Miss Julia A. Winters, 
and their children were as follows: Millie (now 
deceased), Gretta (wife of John Donnan, of Wash- 
ington), Lula (wife of John Sweeney, of Elm Grove, 
Penn.), Sadie (wife of Dr. Thistle, of Washing- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



393 



ton), Carrie (wife of Horace P. Rose, of Johns- 
town, Penn.), and Elizabeth (wife of Dr. John M. 
Fulton). The father of this family died December 
29, 1874, in Washington; the mother is still liv- 
ing, and is now in her seventy-third year. Mr. 
Bell was a Republican, and held the offices of 
county treasurer, prothonotary, clerk of commis- 
sioners, and at the time of his death was Deputy 
United States Collector of Internal Revenue, all of 
which incumbencies he filled faithfully and to the 
satisfaction of all. He was a most highly es- 
teemed citizen, and after his death was much 
missed in the community, for his uprightness and 
integrity of character had won him hosts of friends. 
His widow, Mrs. Agnes (Scott) Bell, is a daughter 
of Alexander and Rachel (McDowell) Scott, and a 
granddaughter of Josiah and Violet Scott. Alex- 
ander Scott (born in December, 1763) and Rachel 
McDowell (born November 17, 1773), were mar- 
ried November IS, 1790, by Rev. John McMillan, 
and were the parents of children, whose names and 
dates of birth are as follows: Violet, August 15, 
1791; John, January 7, 1793; William, April 8, 
1794; Agnes, January '24, 1796; John, September 
29, 1798; Sarah, January 30, 1801; Josiah, 
December 1, 1803; James, March 26, 1807, and 
Rachel, August 18, 1810. 



1 OHN M. STOCKDALE. " Hie et ubique" 
might justly be applied as the motto of the 
fr sturdy Scotch-Irish race, who have so deeply 
^^ made their impress, the wide world over, as 
champions of liberty and civil rights, and 
are ever to be found in the van of civilization and 
progress. Of such strong, hardy and brave people 
comes the gentleman whose name appears at the 
opening of this biographical sketch. 

Mr. Stockdale is a native of Greene county, 
Penn., born iu 1824, a son of William and Han- 
nah Stockdale. James Stockdale, the grandfather 
of John M., came from the North of Ireland 
about 1787, on a visit to America, and was led by 
circumstances to remain. Having exhausted his 
funds in traveling about the country, he began 
milling, which business he had learned of his 
father in Ireland, intending to make money enough 
to return home; but the Fates ordered otherwise, 
for he fell in love with and married Miss Weir, 
and never went back. In 1790 the young couple 
settled in what was then Washington (now Greene) 
county, where were born to them children as fol- 
lows: William, Nancy (now Mrs. Robert Patton, 
of Fayette county, Penn.), Sarah (wife of Maj. 
James Ringland) and Elizabeth, wife of Squire 
Benjamin Jennings, of Waynesburg, Greene Co., 
Penn. The mother of these children died in 1823, 
and the father in 1840, at the age of eighty-six 
years. 



William Stockdale, father of our subject, was 
born in 1792, on the homestead in Morris town- 
ship, Greene Co., Penn., and was brought up 
there. He married Hannah McQuaid, a daughter 
of John McQuaid, of Washington county, Penn. 
Their residence was the old home place, where 
they passed the remainder of their lives. The 
children born to them were: (1) James, whose death, 
at forty-five, was the result of an accident at a 
railroad station in Lancaster, Ohio; he had lived 
for a number of years in Baltimore, and was twice 
a member of the Legislature of Maryland. (2) 
John M. (3) Robert P., who lives in Mt. 
Pleasant, Henry Co., Iowa. (4) Thomas R., who 
left Jefferson College (Penn.) with the class of 
1856, and located iu Summit, Miss., where he con- 
tinues to practice law; he has represented his Dis- 
trict for several terms in Congress, and is now a 
member. (5) Mary, the wife of Dr. Thaddeus 
Dodd. (6) Isabella, who married H. B. Lind- 
ley, of Morris township, Washington county, and 
(7) Sarah P., who married Joseph B. Wise, Esq., 
of West Bethlehem township, Washington Co., 
Penn. The father died at the age seventy-one 
years, on the farm upon which he was born, and 
the mother in 1873, aged seventy-six years. 

John M. Stockdale was born and reared on the 
farm, was sent to an academy to prepare for col- 
lege, and graduated from Washington College in 
1849. He studied law with T. M. T. McKeunan, 
and his son Judge William McKennau, of Wash- 
ington, Penn., and was admitted to practice in 
1852. In 1853 he became the owner and editor of 
the Waynesburg (Greene county) Messenger, the 
only Democratic newspaper in the county. In 
1854 he was elected, on the Democratic ticket, to 
represent Greene county in the State Legislature, 
aud was re-elected in 1855. In 1856 he went to 
the Northwest for recreation and health, but be- 
came connected with business matters in Fort 
Dodge, on the Des Moines river, Iowa, and re- 
mained there until 1865. In the meantime he was 
appointed (in 1857) Register of the Government 
Land Office in Fort Dodge, which he held until 
July, 1861. During his residence there he dealt 
very largely in real estate, having bought and sold 
more than two hundred thousand acres of land, as 
the records show; but the Civil war depressed or 
destroyed, for the time, nearly all land values in 
the Northwest, and made real estate a hazardous 
investment. In 1863 Mr. Stockdale, in his ab- 
sence, was nominated for the State Senate from his 
district in Iowa, but declined to accept the nomi- 
nation. In 1864 he was an elector on the McClel- 
land ticket. In 1865 he removed to the city of 
Baltimore, where he engaged in the wholesale 
drug trade in the well-known house of Stockdale, 
Smith & Co., on the corner of Howard and Ger- 
man streets, and also in a Petroleum Oil Refinery 



394 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



near the shipping wharves, until the Standard Oil 
Co. , by methods now well known, secured control 
of all pipe lines and means of transportation, in- 
cluding heavy special rebates that crushed all com- 
petitors. 

In 1S81 Mr. Stockdale removed to Washington, 
Penn., and published the Review and Examiner 
until 1886 when he retired from journalistic work 
and is now in a law office in Washiugton. In 1884 
he received the nomination of the Democratic 
party for Congress in a District embracing Wash- 
ington, Beaver and Lawrence counties. In 1883, 
when the project was untested by experience, he 
applied for and secured a State Charter, for the 
transportation and consumption of natural gas for 
''heat and light." The prosecution of the project 
by a company of enterprising citizens resulted in 
the development of natural gas and oil in the imme- 
diate vicinity, stimulating enterprise, and Washing- 
ton, Penn., is now the most beautiful, attractive 
and flourishing town on the waters of the Ohio. 

In 1857 Mr. Stockdale married Miss Martha, 
daughter of Abner Clark, of Ten Mile Valley, 
Washington Co., Penn., whose grandfather was an 
early settler of the county. She has a sister, Mrs. 
Logan, of Philadelphia, Penn., and two brothers, 
William E. and James E. Clark, both married and 
living in Washington, D. C. One child, Elizabeth 
C. , has been born to Mr. and Mrs. Stockdale, and 
lives with them at their home on East Wheeling 
Street, Washington, Pennsylvania. 



C. CARMACK. This gentleman, the genial 
and popular landlord of the well known and 
widely patronized hotel in Monougahela, 
known as the " Sheplar House," comes of 
German ancestry. 

Peter Carmack, the first of the family known to 
have been born in America, was reared and mar- 
ried somewhere " east of the mountains," and in 
an early day came to Bedford county, Penn., set- 
tling in the town of St. Clairsville, where he fol 
lowed his trade of shoemaker during the rest of his 
life. He was in politics an Old-line Whig. The 
children born to him, eight in number, were Abra- 
ham, Daniel, Peter, Rachel, Susanna, Maria, and 
two whose^iames are now unknown. Of this fam- 
ily, Abraham Carmack was born in Bedford county, 
Penn., and at the early schools of St. Clairsville 
received a fairly liberal education for those days. 
Learning blacksinithing, he followed that trade in 
liis native county, in Somerset county, and for a 
time in Monougahela, whither he had conic in 
1839. Shortly after his arrival here, he took up 
the trade of stone mason which he followed during 
the rest of his life. He died in 1864, a Democrat 
in politics, and a member of the Baptist Church. 
He married Susanna Wickham, of Hancock, Mil., 



and the following named children were born to 
them: Josiah W., Zachariah, Hezekiah, Zephaniah, 
Jeremiah, Ameriah, Soriah, Maria, Aunah Sophia, 
Margaret Keziah, and Rachel Soriah and Savanah. 
The mother of this familv departed this life in 
1884. 

In 1N52 Hezekiah Carmack married Miss Louisa 
Crall, of Monougahela, and they had two children: 
S. C. and Susie V. Mr. Carmack went to Califor- 
nia in March. 1852, by the overland route, the trip 
occupying live months, and while en route he fell 
exhausted from thirst. A friend ran three miles 
for water, and returned with some just in time to 
save the life of the nearly expiring man. When 
he arrived in Sacramento, Mr. Carmack worked for 
a time at his trade, that of molder, and then took 
up land and commenced farming, but a disastrous 
flood came, which so discouraged him that he be- 
took himself to the mountains, thereto try his luck 
at mining. Here he, I. Shelby Crall and Lenard 
Savage located the "Savage Mine" at Virginia 
City, Nev. After leaving that place, Mr. Carmack 
located in North San Juan, where he built a saw 
mill, at the same time interesting himself in mining. 
He afterward sold out and proceeded to Chico, 
Butte Co., Cal., and again took up farming, in- 
cluding the raising of stock, which he is yet en- 
gaged in at the same place. In politics he is a 
straight Democrat. 

S. C. Carmack, the subject proper of this sketch, 
was born February '28, l8(>2, in North San Juan, 
Cal., where he received hiseducation. In 1882 he 
came to Monongahela, and here for some three 
years worked in Mark Boreland & Son's clothing 
store, and then for H. Landefeld two years. In 
April, 1892, he took charge of what is now known 
as the ''Sheplar House," a hostelry he conducts 
with characteristic ability, care and judgment, 
and where he is building up areputation as caterer 
for the traveling public and others, second to none 
in the county. On April 13, 1888, while employed 
in the store of M. Boreland & Sons, Mr. Carmack 
was married to Lillie, daughter of the late James 
P. Sheplar (of whom a brief sketch follows), and 
one child. Prescott, has been born to them. In 
his political preferences Mr. Carmack is a Repub- 
lican. 

James P. Sheplar (deceased), who in his lifetime 
was one of the best representative men of Monou- 
gahela, was a native of the county, born in Peters 
township April 21, 1822, a son of Philip and Mary 
(Hill) Sheplar, the former of whom first saw the 
light in Washington county, where he was reared 
and educated. He married Mary, daughter of 
Henry Hill, of the same county, and the children 
born to them were John (deceased), Jacob (in 
Davenport, Cowa), James P. (deceased), Henry 
(deceased), Nancy (wife of Capt. James Campbell, 
of river fame, now residing at Huntington, W. Va.), 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



395 



Marvin (deceased), Samuel (on a stock ranch, Santa 
Rosa, Cal.), Josephine (wife of Dorvile Libbey, in 
San Francisco, Cal.), and Cyrus (deceased). Philip 
Slieplar was all his life an enterprising agriculturist 
in the county, and for years was proprietor of the 
• ' Nation Hotel ' ' in Pittsburgh. In politics he was 
a Whig and Republican, and in church connection 
a Baptist. He died in Pittsburgh about the year 
1862. 

James P. Sheplar attended the common schools 
of the neighborhood of his boyhood home, and 
when eighteen years of age went to West Alexan- 
der where he learned blacksmithing with a man 
named McGowan. Afterward he worked at his 
trade in Washington, Manchester, Connellsville 
and West Newton, and later was engaged in ped- 
dling stoves in Washington county. In 1852 he 
went to California by the overland route, the 
journey taking from March to July 4, following, 
and here followed his trade for a short time until 
he commenced mining; but at the latter occupation 
he did not long remain, for we find that he soon 
returned to his old trade among the "gold dig- 
gers." Returning to Washington county in 1S52, 
he concluded to make his future home in Monon- 
gahela, and having purchased the "Hemptield 
House," he successfully conducted the same until 
1883, when he retired from the hotel business and 
removed to a comfortable dwelling he had erected 
in the same town. Some time after taking the 
hotel he changed its name to " Sheplar House," by 
which it is now known. In connection with the 
hotel business Mr. Sheplar at one time dealt largely 
in sheep, leaving the "House" in the care of his 
wife while he was absent in Texas buying sheep. 
There he left them, however, as the war was then 
in progress, and returned to Washington county, 
but afterward revisited Texas and sold of his pur- 
chase what of the sheep could then be found. He 
also paid no little attention to the oil development 
in the vicinity of Oil City, Penn., being interested 
in several wells there. 

On September 10, 1851, Mr. Sheplar was mar- 
ried to Sarah A., daughter of Abraham Teeters, a 
native of Monongahela, where he was educated and 
learned the trade of hatter, which he followed 
some years. He married Nancy Marshall, of 
Maryland, and their children were Eliza, Mahala, 
Washington, Marshall, Sarah A., Susan, Daniel, 
Bird and John, of whom but two survived: Sarah 
A. (Mrs. Sheplar), and Washington (a resident of 
Chicago). In politics Mr. Teeters was an active 
Democrat, in religion a prominent member of the 
Cumberland Presbyterian Church, being an officer 
in the same. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. 
Sheplar were as follows: Josephine (now living at 
Riverside, Cal., the widow of I. B. Miller), Wilbert 
(in San Francisco, Cal.), Cora and Arba (both de- 
ceased), and Lillie (Mrs. S. C. Carmack). Mr. 



Sheplar died September 18, 1891, aged nearly 
seventy years; his widow is still a resident of Mo- 
nongahela, at the old hotel site. Mr. Sheplar was 
a conservative business man, careful and prudent, 
and at the time of his death was the owner of 
eleven distinct properties in Monongahela, his 
estate being computed as worth something over 
$60,000. In early life he was a Whig, but in 1856 
he changed his politics, and from then till bis de- 
cease was an enthusiastic Democrat. He fre- 
quently served his city as councilman (at one time 
as president of the council), school director, etc., 
and twice was placed in nomination by a Democrat 
county convention, once for treasurer and once for 
assembly; he also was once a candidate for the 
position of sheriff. In religion he was an Episco- 
palian, and was one of the original vestrymen of 
St. Paul's Church in Monongahela. Socially he 
was a leading member of the I. O. O. F., having 
been one of the organizers and charter members of 
the Lodge in Monongahela. At a meeting held in 
Council Chambers, Monday, October •">, 1891, the 
members of the Select and Common Councils of 
Monongahela passed appropriate in memoriam res- 
olutions upon the death of their justly esteemed 
friend and colleague. 



AHSON, JACKSON and ALEXANDER S. 

The Carson family have for many years been 
prominently identified with the leading cit- 
izens of Washington county, and a record 
of the ancestry of the gentlemen, whose 
names introduce this sketch, will be found at page 
1268 in this volume. 

Thomas G. Carson was born, about the year 
1792, on the home farm in Fallowfield township, 
Washington county, and received his education in 
the county schools. In early life he married Eliz- 
abeth Scott, a daughter of Parker and Sarah (Car- 
son) Scott, natives of the county, and who lived 
on a farm in Fallowfield township. They had a 
family of one son and twelve daughters, one of 
whom, Lucy Ann, is yet living, near West Belle 
Vernon, the wife of John Sphar. The children 
born to Thomas G. Carson were Thomas, Parker, 
Lucy Ann, Charlotte, Sarah, Washington, Jack- 
son, John and Alexander S. Thomas G. Carson 
was an ardent Democrat, and in religious faith he 
and his wife were members of the Baptist Church. 
They passed their lives on the old place where Mrs. 
Carson died in 1858. Mr. Carson was then mar- 
ried to Esther Mcllvaine, a native of Somerset 
township, this county. He died in 1880, having 
passed his eighty-fourth year. The following chil- 
dren were born to his first marriage: Thomas (who 
died near Rushville, Ind. ), Charlotte, wife of Jo- 
seph Rider (in Fallowfield township), Parker; 
Washington; Jackson; John, in East Pike Run town- 



396 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



ship; Lucy Ann; Sarah (unmarried) and Alexan- 
der S. 

Jackson Cabson was born April 3, 1827, on the 
old homestead in Fallowfield township, Washing- 
ton Co., Penn., and received a subscription-school 
education. On October 3, 1852, he was united in 
marriage with Mary, daughter of John B. and 
Sarah (Scott) Carson, special mention of whom will 
be found at page 1268. After his marriage Mr. 
Carson settled on the 140 acres in Fallowfield 
township which is now his home, running in debt 
for same; he also owns 139i acres in East Pike 
Run township. He has made many improvements 
on both farms, and has erected fine residences 
and three barns on his land. This fine property 
is the fruit of patient toil and ceaseless industry. 
He takes some interest in politics, voting with the 
Democratic party, and has filled many township 
offices. Three sons have been born to Mr. and 
Mis. Carson, namely: William Henry, deceased at 
the age of twelve years; Isaac Newton, married and 
living in East Pike Run township, and John Wes- 
ley, a widower, living at home. 

Alexander S. Cabson was born May 10, 1838, 
on. the homestead in Fallowfield township, where 
he now resides, and was educated in the schools 
of his district. In December, 1871, he was mar 
ned to Annette, daughter of Henry and Emily 
( Duvall) Hanan, all three being natives of East Pike 
Run township, this county, where the marriage 
took place. Her father died in 1868, and her mother 
in February, 1892. Mr. and Mrs. Carson began 
wedded life on the farm of 130 (now 206) acres in 
Fallowfield township, where she died in November, 
1880, leaving one son, Walter. In 1882 Mr. Car- 
son married Elizabeth Myers, a native of Somerset 
township, this county, daughter of John and Mary 
(Ross) Myers, who were born in Germany, and 
about the year 1854 came to America, locating in 
Washington county, where both died. To this 
union four children have been born, namely: Jesse, 
Frederick Ross, Harry Fell, and Elmer Clarence. 
Mr. Carson's farm is well conducted, and on it, in 
addition to general agriculture, he raises a fine 
grade of Short-horn Jersey cattle. Politically he 
votes with the Democratic party, and he has held 
local offices; Mrs. Carson is a member of the Pres- 
byterian Church at Pigeon Creek. 



T'AMES AGNEW, a prosperous farmer of Mt. 
I Pleasant township, is a son of James Agnew, 
fr ) whose father was a pioneer settler of Wash- 
^"^ iugton county, coming here in about 1784. 
James Agnew, father of subject, was born in 
1803, in Chartiers township, this county, and was 
reared and educated on his father's farm. He was 
united in marriage with Nancy Jane Buchanan, a 
native of Mt. Pleasant township, this county, and 



the young people began life in a rude log cabin, 
on a farm now owned by their descendants, which 
was then as unbroken forest. The children born 
to these pioneers were Elizabeth, deceased wife of 
Joseph Porter, of Canton township; two sons that 
died in infancy; James and Nancy Jane (twins; 
Nancy Jane is the wife of William Stewart, of Wash- 
ington, Penn.). The father of this family died in 
1880, in Mt. Pleasant township, his wife having 
passed away many years prior to his death. He 
was an active member of the Democratic party. 

James Agnew was born in 1S42 on the farm in 
Mt. Pleasant township which he now owns, and 
received his education in the common schools of 
the neighborhood. In 1881 he was married to 
Rebecca McDowell, a native of the same township, 
and daughter of John and Margaret (Miller) Mc- 
Dowell, also natives of Mt. Pleasant township, 
where they passed their married life. Mr. Mc- 
Dowell died in 1886, his wife several years before. 
He was a member of the Presbyterian Church. 
After his marriage to Rebecca McDowell, James 
Agnew settled on the farm of 1 1 5 acres, which he 
has since been employed in managing. Mr. and 
Mrs. Agnew are members of the Presbyterian 
Church at Mt. Prospect, and are always ready to 
do ;tll in their power to further any laudable object. 



' 



li Hi ATTHEW TAYLOR, who in his lifetime 
x/A was a representative of one of oldest and 
■( I most prominent families in the county, 
-* was born March 5, 1817, in South Strabane 
township, Washington Co., Penn. 
His grandfather, Henry Taylor, was a native of 
Wales, and about the year 1770 took a " tomahawk 
right" of 1,200 acres of laud in this county, and 
added thereto until the amount aggregated some 
1 ,7( 10 acres, all lying in what is now South Strabane 
township. He was a member of the M. E. Church, 
a Whig in politics, and was the first judge of the 
courts. He married Jane White, and by her had 
seven sons and six daughters, of whom Matthew 
(the eldest) was the first white male child born west 
of the Alleghanies, his birth occurring on the prop- 
erty above referred to. Matthew married Nancy, 
daughter of Thomas Hutchinson, on February 14, 
1803, and settled on part of his father's tract. The 
children born of this union were Henry, born March 
6, 1N04; Jane, born August 12, 1807. marriedOliver 
Lindsey; Thomas, born September 21, 1805, mar- 
ried Susan Donington; Mary, born April 8, 1809, 
married John McFarland; James, born April 11, 
1811; Julia, born April 4, 1814, married Hugh 
Reynolds; Eliza, born March 12, 1805, married 
Andrew VanEman; Matthew and George (twins), 
born March 5, 1817, the former of whom is the 
subject of this sketch, the latter married to Jane 
Munnell; Rachel, born March 28, 1824, married 
Workman Hughes; and William, born April 3, 1830. 



: 






♦ 




J 



\ 




^t^##^ 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



397 



These were all born where the family now reside. 
Mr. Taylor died Jnne 19, 1852. By profession he 
was a civil engineer. He was a consistent mem- 
ber of the M. E. Church, and in politics was a Whig. 
Mrs. Taylor died March 19, 1877. 

Matthew Taylor, whose name appears at the open- 
ing of this biographical sketch, was educated at the 
subscription schools in his locality, and was brought 
up to farm life from early boyhood. On May '_''>, 
1 86 1. he married Jane, daughter of George Forrest, 
a native of Edinburgh, Scotland, who when but a 
boy moved with his parents to Penrith, Cumberland. 
England, and when eighteen years of age he 
moved to London, where he married Miss Alice 
Rhodes, of that city. The children born to this 
anion were Alice (Mrs. Hugh W. Boyle), Emma 
(Mrs. John B. Hallam), George, Jane (Mrs. Matthew 
Taylor), Robert R., Mary (Mrs. John Munce), 
Richard R. and J. R. To Mr. and Mrs. Taylor 
were born three children, viz.: George Forrest, 
Rachel Mary and John Richard. Mr. Taylor 
passed from earth October 15, 1889, and was buried 
in Washington. For many years he was connected 
with the M. E. Church, of which he was a trustee. 
In politics he was au Abolitionist, later a Repub- 
lican, and held many offices of trust in the township. 
The fine farm, whereon his widow continues to re- 
side, was improved by Mr. Taylor himself, and he 
built the commodious and elegant brick family 
residence. 



scent and pioneer settlers of Washington county. 
To the union of Thomas and Susan (Ulery) Lilley 
six children have been born, namely : Jacob, 
Thomas E., Simeon, Ruth J. (wife of John Elliott), 
Eli (deceased), and Stephen (deceased). Mr. Lilley 
owns the old homestead, consisting of 230 acres of 
prime land. In politics he is a Republican, and 
has served as school director for several years. 
His wife is a member of the M. E. Church. 



THOMAS LILLEY, a prominent and highly 
respected agriculturist of East Pike Run 
township, is a grandson of Walter Lilley, 
who was born in Ireland, and immigrating 
to America died in Chester county, Penn. 
Thomas Lilley (father of subject) was born and 
reared on a farm in Chester county, and coming to 
Washington county in 1801, bought 160 acres in 
East Pike Run township, where he followed the 
blacksmith trade in connection with farming. In 
1S10 he erected a large stone house and barn upon 
the place. He was an active worker in the Whig 
party, and in religious faith he and his wife (who 
was formerly Ruth Woodard) were members of the 
Society of Friends. They were the parents of ten 
children, of which large family Thomas is the only 
one yet living. The father died in 1S40, aged 
sixty-eight years, followed by the mother in 1845, 
who had passed her seventy-fifth year. 

Thomas Lilley, whose name opens this sketch, 
was born October 12, 1814, on the farm in East 
Pike Run township, Washington Co., Penn., where 
he is yet living. He attended the subscription 
schools when a boy, and was reared to agricultural 
pursuits. In 1842 he was married to Susan "Ulery, 
born in 1815, in this county, a daughter of Stephen 
and Christina Ulery, who were of German de- 



Ei N. LILLEY, who in his lifetime was an in- 
fluential citizen of California, Penn., was a 
son of Ellis Lilley (who was a native of this 
-' county) and a nephew of Thomas Lilley, 
a sketch of whom precedes this. In early man- 
hood Ellis Lilley was united in marriage with 
Elizabeth Phillips, also a native of this county, 
and the young couple settled permanently on a 
farm in East Pike Run township. They were the 
parents of six children, namely: Solomon, Ruth 
(wife of B. C. Jackman), Thomas, Ellis N., Eliza- 
beth, (wife of Dr. Johnson) and Phcebe (married 
to Arthur Hubs). Mr. Lilley was a leading mem 
her of the Westland Quaker Church, and in poli- 
tics was a Whig and Republican. He and his wife 
were buried in the home cemetery. 

Ellis N. Lilley was born July 19, 1837, on the 
farm in East Pike Run township, Washington Co., 
Penn., where he received the advantages of a pub- 
lic-school education. After leaving the public school 
he devoted some time to teaching, and he entered 
this work with his characteristic energy, which 
meant success. He proved a power for good, which 
was felt long after he was g( me. He was married No- 
vember 1, 1866, by J C. Momyer, pastor of Green- 
field C. P. Congregation, to Kate, daughter of Dr. 
Lewis Marchand, a native of Westmoreland county, 
Penn. The latter attended the public schools, 
and deciding to study medicine entered the office 
of a physician, with whom he remained several 
months. He then took a medical course, and 
after graduating began to practice his profession 
at Uniontown, Penn., where he continued to re- 
side until failing health compelled him to seek 
rest in his country home. He was married to 
Sarah Sackett, a native of Fayette county, Penn., 
who bore him children as follows: Samuel, 
Rachel, Elizabeth, Louisa, Caroline, Lucius and 
Kate (Mrs. Lilley). Dr. Marchand possessed as a 
family heritage the receipt for the cure of hydro- 
phobia, from which many wonderful cures have 
been reported. He was an ardent Whig and Re- 
publican in politics, and in religious faith was a 
leading member of the Cumberland Presbyterian 
Church. 

Ellis N. and Kate (Marchand) Lilley resided on 
the home farm until 1881, when, his sight failing, 
he moved to California, same countv. He died 



398 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



July 25, 1891, leaving three children, viz.: Sarah, 
Henrietta and Wilbur. He was buried in the Mar- 
chand family burying ground, across the river 
from California. In political opinion Mr. Lilley 
was an enthusiastic Republican, and in religious 
faith he gave liberally of his time and money to 
the support of the Cumberland Presbyterian 
Church. He was deeply interested in the found- 
ing of the Southwestern State Normal School at 
California, Penn.,and put his first earned money 
into it. He served as trustee until his health 
failed. Patience in sickness and trouble, and a 
kind heart that reached all the poor and needy, 
were his notable characteristics, and by everybody 
could this be emphasized. 



JACOB M. STEWART. The Stewart family 
are numbered with the leading pioneers of 
| this county, and have ever been distinguished 
as successful, enterprising and popular citi- 
zens. Archibald Stewart was born in Ireland, 
and coming to America in early manhood, was 
married to Rebecca Reed, a native of Pennsylvania. 
They settled in Chartiers township, Washington 
county, where he followed farming and blacksmith - 
ing. Their children were: James R., Mary (wife of 
Samuel Griffith, of Hickory, Mt. Pleasant town- 
ship, this county), Jane (deceased in 1883, wife of 
William S. White, of Canonsburg), Joseph (de- 
ceased in Illinois, where he was married), William 
(married and living in Villisca, Iowa), Margaret 
(deceased in 1872, wife of David Miller, of this 
county), Sarah (married to Andrew Miller, of Mt. 
Pleasant township), and John (deceased in 1880, 
in Donegal township, this county). The father 
died Jane 5, 1812. 

James It. Stewart was born in 1812, on the home 
farm in Chartiers township, where his widow is now 
living. He received a meager education in the 
district schools, then learned the blacksmith's trade 
of his father, which he afterward followed in con- 
nection with farming. On May 23, 1839, he was 
united in marriage with Miss Elizabeth Miller, a 
daughter of Jacob Miller, who was born in eastern 
Pennsylvania, and there married to Jane Filston, 
also a native of eastern Pennsylvania. Soon after 
their marriage, the young couple came to Wash- 
ington county, locating near McConnell's Mills, in 
Chartiers township. Some years later they moved 
to the old Col. Robert Miller farm, where the fol- 
lowing children were born: Rachel (wife of 
Thomas Sproat, living in South Strabane township), 
Mary (wife >>[ Samuel McNary; both were twice 
married), Nancy (wife of John Boon), Jane (wife 
of Richanl Sproat, in Ohio), Samuel (a wagon- 
ma ker of Hickory, Mt. Pleasant township), Cathe- 
rine (wife of James McDowell, of Mt. Pleasant), 
Jacob (who married and moved to Ohio), Margaret 



(was married to John McDowell, of Mt. Pleasant 
township), Sophia, Robert W. (deceased in August, 
1891), Elizabeth T. (Mrs. James R. Stewart) and 
Sarah (unmarried). Of this family Mrs. Stewart 
is the only living member. The father was an 
active member of the Washington Presbyterian 
Church. In politics he voted with the Democratic 
party. 

After his marriage, James R. Stewart settled on 
the home farm, where his widow is yet living, and 
continued to follow his trade in addition to farm 
work. He was actively interested in religious work, 
he and his wife being earnest members of the Char- 
tiers Cross Roads United Presbyterian Church. In 
politics he voted the Republican ticket. Mr. Stew- 
art died May 22, 1880, mourned by the many friends 
who knew and valued his sterling worth. He left 
a widow and two children: Rebecca and Jacob M. 
Rebecca Stewart was born on the home farm in 
Chartiers township, and on October 20, 1864, was 
married to William H. Thompson, a native of Can- 
onsburg. He was born May 17, 1837, and is the 
eldest son of Joseph Thompson, who married Emily 
Gabby, and lived near Canonsburg until his death. 
William H. and Rebecca (Stewart) Thompson set- 
tled in Canonsburg after their marriage, where 
he followed his trade of wagon-making, finally 
moving to the farm. He was an active worker in 
the Republican party, and in religious faith a mem- 
ber of the United Presbyterian Church at Canons- 
burg. He died February 1, 1873. Mrs. Thompson 
is living on the home place. She has had five chil- 
dren, viz.: James Stewart, born February 10, 1807; 
Joseph (a graduate of Duff's Commercial College, 
Pittsburgh, Penn.), born January 30,1869; Eliza- 
beth Emma, born December 8, 1872 (deceased in 
infancy); Millie R., born February 26, 1872, and 
an infant, who died in 1871. The mother has 
given her children the advantages of a good educa- 
tion. Mrs. Stewart is a worthy representative of 
her family, which has been one of the earliest in 
the county, and is ever ready to aid in any enter- 
prise to promote the public welfare. 

Jacob M. Stewart was born September 28, 1842, 
on the home farm in Chartiers township, and at- 
tended school in District No. 3, Chartiers town- 
ship, and after leaving school assisted in clearing 
and improving the home place. On May 28, 1 86 1 . 
he was united in marriage with Rebecca J., daugh- 
ter of Rev. John Todd, who was born near Green 
Garden, Beaver Co., Penn., and was married 
in Canonsburg, Washington county, to Rebecca 
Thompson, a native of Canonsburg. He was a 
minister of the United Presbyterian Church, and 
first settled in Jefferson county, Penn., but after- 
ward moved to Washington, Iowa, thence to Bur- 
gettstown, Penn., where he and his wife died. 

To Jacob M. and Rebecca J. Stewart five chil- 
dren were born, viz. : Blanche L. , Frank L., Grace 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



399 



Mabel, Edith Rebecca and Myrtle May. The mother 
of this family died March 9, 1879, and December 
28, 1881, Mr. Stewart was married, at Hickory, 
this county, to Lizzie J., daughter of John and 
Jemima (Buchanan) Grounds, natives of this county. 
Both parents are yet living in Hickory, this county, 
and the father lias passed his ninetieth birthday. 
Mr. Stewart received 133 acres from the paternal 
estate, and he has added 110 acres to the original 
tract, making a good farm, which is well stocked, 
and improved with all necessary buildings, the hand- 
some brick residence having been erected before 
the death of his father. Jacob Stewart votes the 
Prohibition ticket, and has served as a member of 
the school board, and in various offices of trust. 
He and his wife are members of the TJ. P. Church 
at Hickory, of which he is an elder. 



Mr. Devore has engaged somewhat extensively in 
stock, and now has over 300 sheep, twenty head of 
different stock of cattle, and twelve horses, of the 
best grade of stock. 



JXt LEXANDER DEVORE is a son of An- 
il drew Devore, who was born in Washington 
4\ county, Penn., where he was married to 
-^ a Miss Steele, of Redstone, Penn. She 
bore him five children, as follows: Henry, 
Lydia A. (Mrs. Crookham, living in this county), 
Eliza (Mrs. Seeley), David (deceased) and Alex- 
ander. The mother died in 1880, aged seventy 
five years, having been preceded by the father, 
who passed away before the birth of his youngest 
son. 

Alexander Devore was born March 20, 1830, on 
the home place in Nottingham township, this county. 
On January 15, 1851, he was united in marriage 
with Miss Martha Thomas, of this county, ami the 
following children were born to their union: Jona- 
than T., Abigail A., Elizabeth J., Liverton D. and 
Nancy B. The mother of this family died in 1865, 
and October 11, 1867, he was married to Elizabeth 
Robb, who has borne him eleven children, five of 
whom are yet living, viz.: Edwin L., Owen W., 
Oscar O, Maud and Lydia A., all at home. 

Mr. Devore began life on a farm, at the age of 
sixteen years, without a penny to pay his expenses. 
He worked for board and clothes until twenty-one 
years of age, when his employer, Andrew Grouch, 
gave him $100. With this small amount as capi- 
tal he rented a farm, and then began saving his 
money until able to purchase one. When the 
war began he secured many recruits for the army, 
and on February 14, 18(35, sent as his own substi- 
tute, one Matthew Crookham, who received an hon- 
orable discharge at the close of the war. In 18(35 
Mr. Devore bought sixty-seven acres in Somerset 
township, which he sold after the war was over. 
He then purchased the home place of eighty acres 
in Nottingham township, to which he has added 
from adjoining farms, now owning 207 acres of well- 
cultivated land worth from $80 to $90 per acre, 
and has erected a fine house and barn on the place. 



f | J. CHESTER. Among the prominent agri- 
culturists of Allen township, none are more 
Vj) deserving of special mention than this pros- 
^^ perous gentleman, whose' name has from an 
early time been associated with the best interests 
of Washington county. 

Many years ago Joseph and Elizabeth Chester, 
natives of eastern Pennsylvania, came to Wash- 
ington county, and there made a home on a tract 
of land which he patented. Among the children 
who came to this pioneer couple was one son, S. A., 
whose brothers were Morrison, who resided in 
Guernsey county, Ohio, and died January 21, 
L893, and Benjamin, who died in California. 

S. A. Chester was born March 16, 1818, on the 
home farm in Allen township, Washington county. 
He was there married to Margaret Jackman, who 
was born on the farm their children now occupy. 
Mr. Chester affiliated with the Whig and Repub- 
lican parties, and served in many local offices. 
Mrs. Chester died about the year 1871, leaving the 
following children: Joseph W. (who died in 1873 in 
Vernon county, Mo.), John A. (living in Mound- 
ville, Vernon Co., Mo.), Elizabeth Ann (deceased 
at the age of eight years), J. J. (whose name 
opens this sketch), James Harvey (who died in 1875 
in Allen township), Margaret Ann (deceased wife 
of Irving McKenna, of Fayette City), Jane A. 
(deceased wife of Allen Ailes, of Columbus, Kans.), 
S. T., and Fremont (who died when twelve years 
of age). S. A. Chester died in March, 1888. 

J. J. Chester, the fourth son of S. A. and Mar- 
garet Chester, was born July 4, 1840, in Allen 
township, Washington county. He attended the 
home schools and assisted on the farm during 1><>\ 
hood. On August 15, 1863, he enlisted at New 
Brighton, Perm., in Company A, Forty-sixth P. V. 
I., for three years, or during the war. He was 
mustered into service at New Brighton and as- 
signed to the old Twelfth, Army of the Potomac, 
which, combined with the Eleventh, formed the 
Twentieth corps, army of the Cumberland. Mr. 
Chester participated in the battles of Lookout 
Mountain and Resaca, at which latter he received 
a gunshot wound in the face and right arm. He 
was taken to the hospital at Chattanooga, Tenu., 
thence transferred to Pittsburgh, Penn., and on May 
18, 1865, received his discharge, returning to 
Allen township. On September 8, 1869, Mr. 
Chester was united in marriage with Miss E. A. 
Gatts, who was born in West Virginia, a daugh- 
ter of C. D. and Mary (Riggs) Gatts, also 



400 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



natives of West Virginia, and who, while cross- 
ing a railroad track were accidentally killed. 

The paternal grandfather of Miss Gatts was 
a native of Washington county, Penn. After 
their marriage (the ceremony having taken place 
in Virginia) Mr. and Mrs. Chester first located on 
the home farm in Allen township, Washington 
county, but in t*7s he bought the 107f acres of 
land which they now occupy, and where he has 
since followed farming. The children born to 
them were Avolena, living in Los Angeles, Cal. ; 
Raymond H. ; Christian L. ; Lydia May, deceased 
at the age of seven weeks; Blaine, and Neva, the 
last named being deceased. Mr. Chester takes an 
active interest in the success of the Republican 
party, and is a member of the "Harry Billingsley" 
Post No. 10SG. A. R., at California, thiscounty. He 
and his wife are members of the Methodist Episco- 
pal Church at Mount Tabor. 



I7I( LEXANDER McCLEERY, one of the old- 

/ ■ |\ est native born citizens of West Finley 
h^i township, if not the oldest, was born July 

JJ ** 28, L820, and is of Irish descent. 

v His grandfather, John McCleery, was 

married in 1788 to Miss Jane Brooks, in County 
Down, Ireland, and December 1">, L789, they set 
sail from Londonderry for America, landing at 
New Castle, Del., February 13, 1790, after a long 
and perilous voyage of eight weeks and four days, 
during which they encountered a severe storm 
which threatened their destruction. They brought 
with them their eldest child James, who became 
the father of Alexander McCleery, and from Del- 
aware they proceeded to Winchester, Va. In 
Winchester they remained until late in the year 
1799, when they emigrated to Washington county, 
Penn., and settled in Donegal township for several 
years, his la^t place of residence there being on the 
farm of Joseph Hupp (deceased), on the waters 
of Buffalo creek. While moving they spent their 
Christmas on the Alleghany mountains. The 
roads across the mountains were difficult to travel 
at that time, and when starting on their journey 
from Winchester, they were weighed as freight 
and charged accordingly. John McCleery, grand- 
father of Alexander McCleery, continued to work 
at his trade of shoeniaking and at fanning. He 
and his wife were the parents of six children, 
namely: James (who as above stated was born in 
County Down, Ireland, October 15, 1789), Nancy, 
Betsey. Jane, Thomas and John, none of whom 
ever married except James and Thomas. The 
family continued to live where they had first 
settled on Buffalo creek, Donegal township, until 
the spring of 1818 (on August 20, 1816, the hus- 
band and father, John McCleery, died ), in which 
year they removed to West Finley township, and 



bought a tract of 106 acres of land entirely in the 
woods, built their cabin, cleared up a large por- 
tion of the land, and made a good living and some 
money besides. About the fall of 1848 they sold 
the farm and removed to the State of Illinois, set- 
tling in Adams county. (The farm they had 
settled on in West Finley township is at the present 
time owned and occupied by Mr. George S. 
Eckles). They are all now dead but Jane, who is 
over ninety years of age. Thomas McCleery and 
Miss Martha Lawson were united in marriage 
about the year 1S23, and settled in Marshall 
county, Va. ( now W. Va.), and lived there till the 
fall of \S'i'i, when they emigrated to Adams county, 
111. They reared four sons and seven daughters, 
some of whom are dead, the rest of them are mar- 
ried and living in the West; the parents are both 
deceased. 

James McCleery, father of Alexander McCleery, 
was reared on his father's farm to the life of an ag- 
riculturist, and his education was obtained al the 
subscription schools of the period. He and Miss 
Catharine Forbes were united in marriage March 
24, 1818, and settled on the first day of the follow- 
ing April in West Finley township, on a farm he 
had bought the previous year, and which is now 
owned and occupied by Mr. John McCammon. 
Alexander Forbes (father of Mrs. James McCleery) 
and a Miss Boyd were united in marriage about the 
year 1774, in York county, Penn., and several years 
later they migrated to Washington county, set- 
tling first on the waters of Pigeon creek, Washing- 
ton county, afterward in Donegal township. They 
were the parents of four children: Mary, Catha- 
rine, Sarah and John. At this time there are none 
of the Forbes family living in Washington county, 
all having either died or moved to other parts. Our 
subject well remembers his mother telling about 
the insurgent army of the whisky insurrectionists 
passing her father's house, when on their way to 
Inspector Neville's residence. They compelled her 
husband to go along with them, and he started 
with the crowd (some 500 or 000 men), but after 
proceeding several miles he observed that the men 
were traveling at loose ends, no military discipline 
being observed, and so decided to make his escape 
from among them. Accordingly, an opportunity 
presenting itself, being near the rear he slip] ed 
into the brush by the roadside, and laid down be- 
hind a log for some time till all stragglers had 
passed. He then sped homeward by a different 
route from the oue he had come by, so as to avoid 
any straggler that might have lagged behind. The 
burning of Neville's house history says was done 
July 17, 17U4, so Alexander Forbes and his wife 
must have first settled on the waters of Pigeon 
creek sometime prior to that year. 

James and Catharine McCleery were the par 
ents of six children, as follows: John, Alexander, 






■ 










^AJL^y:cic^z.o^>y~ -n!^. 




WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



403 



James (who died when eight years old), Joseph, 
Thomas and Jane. Of these John married Sarah 
Irwin in 1844, and emigrated to Fairfield, Iowa 
(he and his wife are now both deceased); Joseph 
married Sarah Patterson in 1855, and in 1870 
moved to Marshall county, Iowa, thence to Holt 
county, Neb; Thomas married Sallio Davidson, and 
lives in West Finley township; Jane, on May 12, 
185 1, married Henry Giles, who died in West Finley 
township in October, 1875 (she is now living in 
Claysville, Washington Co., Penn.). The parents 
continued to live where they first settled and there 
the father died October 28, 1859, aged seventy 
years, the mother on May 27, 18(54, aged seventy- 
seven years. 

Alexander McCleery, the subject proper of this 
memoir, was reared to the vocation of a farmer. 
The lirst school he attended was in a vacant cabin, 
prepared for a school house by cutting out a log 
Oil each of the three squares nearly the whole 
length of the square (the chimney or fireplace being 
on the other square), and greasing paper and 
pasting it to the logs above and below the opening 
to allow light for the school. The seats were made 
of small chestnut logs, flattened on the top for the 
scholars to sit on, which were supported by two- 
incli pins in the under side, thereby making the 
seats as high as a chair. At that cabin he attended 
two terms of five months each, with five or six 
weeks' vacation between terms of school, and at no 
school thereafter did he make as good progress. 
He got all his schooling at the common schools — 
first at subscription schools, afterward at the free 
schools. 

They did not have school every winter. After 
the two terms in the cabin, people interested 
in schools concluded to build a new school-house 
by voluntary labor, and the work was parceled out 
in about this order: one man was to hew two logs, 
anol her four logs, another seven, and so on, accord-' 
ing to the number of scholars each had to send; a 
cabinet maker, named Daniel Sutherland, for his 
share made the door and window-sash, and laid the 
floor; stone masons built the chimney for their 
part — so there was no money paid for anything 
except the glass and nails. The work moved slowly, 
and it was about the fourth winter before school 
opened in the new building. School was held in 
this building seven winters on the subscription 
plan, when the free school system was adopted, 
which caused another halt in the schools for sev- 
eral years, or until enough taxes were collected to 
build a new frame school-house. After the new 
house was built, Mr. McCleery attended four terms, 
and got through all the branches taught in common 
schools at that time. 

When nearing his twenty-third year, Mr. Mc- 
Oleery left his father's home, and for three years 



labored on the farm of James Davidson, West 
Finley township; and on the latter's death the fam- 
ily employed liim to manage the farm and stock, in 
which capacity he worked five years. On March 
13, 1851, Alexander McCleery and Miss Mary 
Davidson (eldest daughter of James Davidson) 
were united in marriage, and on the 24th day of 
the same month they moved to the farm on which 
he has ever since resided. Their family numbered 
four children, namely: William D. (now a prac- 
ticing physician in Hanovertown, Columbiana Co., 
Ohio; is married to Miss Lida Brown, and they 
have three children — two girls and one boy), James 
(married to Miss Lula Sutherland, of West Alex- 
ander, Penn., and living on his farm in Hopewell 
township; has two children — one boy and one girl), 
Henrietta (married to R. G. Buchanan, of West 
Virginia; they are living in Ohio county, W. Va. ; 
they have five children — four girls and one boy) and 
Robert D. (still at home, unmarried). The mother 
of these children died March )! 1 , 1808, and Mr. 
McCleery married, October 5, 1870, Miss Lizzie 
Ackloy, daughter of Joshua Ackley, of Greene 
county, Penn. She died December 7, 1871, leav- 
ing a young daughter, then two months old, named 
.Alary Lizzie, who is still living at home with her 
father. 

The McCleerys all belonged to the old Whig 
party until after the Harrison campaign of 1840, 
when the Anti-slavery (juestion arose, at which time 
they joined the Abolition party, and so remained 
until the Republican party made known its princi- 
ples, since when they have voted and worked with 
the latter. 

Alexander McCleery united with the Free Pres- 
byterian Church in 1851, and remained with it 
until it disbanded in 1 S( iS, after which he united 
with the Presbyterian Church in West Alexander, 
in charge of Dr. W. H. Lester, and has been one 
of the elder-, lor a number of years. He has been 
repeatedly called to till the various township offices: 
served four full terms as justice of the peace (his 
successor is his brother Thomas), and served one 
term as county commissioner of Washington county; 
of late years he has had to decline the office on ac- 
count of increasing deafness. Mr. McCleery has suc- 
ceeded in his financial affairs beyond his early 
expectations, and is the owner of 282 acres of land, 
where he now lives. His son, Robert D., has 103 
acres which he aided him to pay, making a total 
of 385 acres in a square tract, beside 170 acres in 
Hopewell township, Washington county, he paid 
$65 per acre for, and which he has deeded to his 
two sons, James and Robert D. ; James owns it all 
at this time, and lives on the farm. Mr. McCleery 
spent a considerable amount of money sending his 
older children to college; but with all his liberal 
outlays he is entirely free from debt. 



404 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 




,\ILLIAM MASON CAMPBELL ranks 
among the first of the prominent and suc- 
cessful business men of Cross Creek town- 
ship. The pioneer of the family of whom 
he is a prominent member was one John Campbell, 
who about 1780, came from York county, Penn., to 
this county, finally settling on a farm of 191 acres 
in Cross Creek township. In those early days the 
Reilmen yet roamed through their native forests, 
looking with jealous eye and lowering brow upon 
the pale-faced intruders. Of the many traditions 
rife concerning the adventures of John Campbell, 
the following is told: While he was mowing a 
small meadow near his house, a sudden and pecul- 
iar noise broke the silence; turning hastily he 
discovered several Indians advancing toward him. 
He fled to the house, the Indians in hot pursuit, 
but managed to get inside and bar the door before 
they could overtake him. He then opened fire on 
them through the windows and succeeded in driv- 
ing them away. On March 31, 1772, John Camp- 
bell was married to Miss Mary Hammond, a native 
of York county, Perm., and to this union children 
were born as follows: Ann, March '_!7, 1778; Gris- 
elda, February 19, 177."); John, January 30, 1777, 
William, August 11, 1779; James, November 9, 
1781 (these three sons settled in Belmont county, 
Ohio); David, March 25, 1784; Charles, October 
31, 1786; George, June 5, 1789 (the latter three 
remained in Cross Creek township); Mary, Feb- 
ruary 4, 1792, married to William Fulton, of Mt. 
Pleasant, township; and Elizabeth, October 9, 1793, 
wife of William Ilea, all now deceased. The father 
died August 13, 1807, aged sixty-three years, the 
mother on March IS, 1817, aged sixty-four years. 
Charles Campbell was born and reared on the 
home farm in Cross Creek township, and in his 
boyhood received a common-school education, 
which was afterward supplemented by current 
reading. In early life he learned the carpenter's 
trade, but a few years later devoted his attention to 
tilling the soil. On February 22, 1810, he was 
maried to Miss Esther Mason, also a native of Cross 
Creek township, and after their marriage the 
young people settled on the home farm. They 
reared children whose names and dates of birth 
are here given: Lucinda, January 9, 1811; Mary, 
February 27, 1812; Elizabeth, August 7, 1813; 
John, July 23, 1815; William Mason, November 
10, 1816; Louisa, February 25, ISIS; David, March 
20, 1820; Hannah, April 10, 1822; and Easter, 
July 23, 1S24. Of these but one survives, William 
.Mi -on. The father of this family died June 4, 
]v J ,'_>, the mother having passed away February 1, 
1825, aged about thirty five years. They, were 
both members of the Presbyterian Church, in 
which he was an elder many years. He was a man 
of considerable ability as a writer in his day. 

William Mason Campbell was born on the old 



homestead which was patented in 1787 by his 
grandfather, who had taken out a warrant in 1785. 
He attended the schools of the day, then held in 
rude log cabins erected for that purpose, the only 
light afforded coming through window-panes made 
of greased paper. In September, 1842, Mason 
Campbell (as he is usually called) married Isabella 
Ramsey, of Buffalo township, this county, and one 
son came to their union, David, born November 1 4, 
1 ■ ~« 1 (he studied at Oakdale Academy, and is now 
a professional teacher of McKeesport, Perm. ). The 
mother died a few days after the birth of her son, 
and was interred in the cemetery at Mt. Prospect, 
this county. On January 3, 1856, Mr. Campbell 
was united in marriage with Annie E. Mcllvaine, 
of Mt. Pleasant township, who bore him the fol- 
lowing children: William C, born October 28, 1856, 
Mary E., born March 30, 1858; Jennie, born 
February 6, 1860 (wife of Edward McNary, of 
Ingram, Penn. I; Charles L., born February 15, 
1S62 (a practicing physician of Hickory, this 
county): John L , born August 11, 1S64 (a farmer 
and ranchman of Wyoming); Annie L., born July 
17, 1867 (wife of Robert Farar. a merchant of 
Hickory. Penn.); James C, born March 18, 1S7<> 
(a student in the mercantile college at McKeesport), 
and Alexander M., born June 22, 1874 (living on 
the home farm). Soon after his marriage Mr. 
Campbell settled on the farm of 186 acres of fine 
land in Cross Creek township, where he is now 
engaged in farming and stockraising, usually keep- 
ing about 300 sheep. Politically he has always 
been a stanch Republican, and has held many 
township offices, notwithstanding the fact that his 
township is strongly Democratic. In religions 
faith Mr. Campbell has been a member of the Mt. 
Prospect Presbyterian Church since a young man, 
and has been an elder in same for about forty years. 




^ILLIAM MARTIN, a prosperous farmer 
and substantial citizen of Smith township, 
is of Irish descent. James Martin, his 
grandfather, was born in Ireland, where 
he was married, afterward coming to America and 
locating permanently in Jefferson township, Alle- 
gheny Co., Penn., where they lived to an advanced 
age. The children born to this pioneer couple 
were: James (who was a shoemaker of Holmes 
county, Ohio), John (a former resident of Ohio), 
Robert (who lived in Ohio). Ann (first married to 
David Canada, then became Mrs. Deerrield, ami re- 
sided in southern Indiana) and William. All of 
this family are now deceased, there having been 
thirteen children, of whom those named lived to a 
mature age. 

William Martin was born July 4, 1802, in Jef- 
ferson township, Allegheny Co., Penn., and re- 
ceived a common-school education. He learned 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



405 



the carpenter's trade, passing Lis earlier life in the 
pursuit of that vocation, and assisting with the 
farm duties during the busy season. On March 9, 
1826, he was united in marriage with Jane Walker, 
who was born October 6, 1800, in the eastern part 
of Pennsylvania, but came when a small child with 
her parents to Washington count)'. The children 
of William and Jane (Walker) Martin were as fol- 
lows: Nancy, born March 5. 1827 Hirst married to 
William Figley, now the wife of Robert Deerfield, 
of Nebraska); Margaret, born September 6,1829, 
(Mrs. James Arbuckle, of Pine Run, Jefferson 
township, Allegheny Co., Penn.); John, bora De- 
cember 19, 1831 (deceased September 13, 1851); 
William (mentioned below), bora September 24. 
1 833; Morgan, born March 28, 1835 (drowned July 
11. 184S); Eliza J., born March 1, 1837 (deceased 
October 17, 1870); Prudence Ann, born May 30, 
1840 (Mrs. Joseph Castor of Union township, Wash- 
ington county); Robert J., born November 19, 
1843 (deceased January 12, 1864), and Perry 
A., bora September 11, 1846 (a carpenterof Union 
township, this county). After his marriage the 
father of this family first settled near Finleyville, 
Washington county, and followed the carpenter's 
trade, also making grain cradles. In 1855 he lo- 
cated in Jefferson township, Allegheny county, 
where he died March 11, 1874, and October 1, 
1884, his wife was laid to rest beside him. In poli- 
tics he was a life-long Democrat, although politi- 
cians of other parties made frequent attempts to 
change his views. He and his wife were highly 
respected members of the community. 

William Martin was born in Union township, 
this county, was reared on his father's farm, and 
educated in the country schools. On September 
4, 1862, he was united in marriage with Kate, 
daughter of Thomas and Mary (Bebhanna) Shep- 
ler, born November 8, 1835, in Snowden town- 
ship, Allegheny Co., Penn. The children born to 
William and Kate Martin are as follows: John A., 
I join September 3, 1863 (living on a farm near 
Oakdale, Allegheny Co. , Penn. ) ; Sarah, born March 
1 I. 1865 (Mrs. William Snyder, of Snowden town- 
ship, Allegheny county); Mary (Mrs. S. H. Watters, 
a farmer near Oakdale, Allegheny county); James 
S. , born July 2, 1869 (living at home); William, 
born February 9, 1871 (living with his parents); 
Jane, born March 20, 1874 (deceased August 15, 
1877), and Thomas S., bora July 26, 1878 (deceased 
June 4, 1879). Mr. and Mrs. Martin first settled 
in Jefferson township, Allegheny county, then 
moved to Snowden township, same county, remain- 
ing there some time. In 1881 he located near 
Finleyville, Union township, this county, and in 
1886 settled on a part of the old " Phillis tract," 
one of the oldest farms in the county, lying about 
one and a half miles west of Bulger, in Smith 
township. It was the first piece of land in the 



county for which a genuine title was made out. 
Mr. Martin is a successful farmer and gives con- 
siderable attention to dairying, and by industry 
combined with careful management, has amassed a 
competence. He began life with little capital save 
the valuable inheritance of good principle instilled 
by his father, but since his marriage has had the 
assistance of a good business manager in the per- 
son of his wife, who superintends her household 
with careful economy. Politically William Martin 
has always been a Democrat, and in religion he 
and his wife are members of the Presbyterian 
Church of Burgettstown. 



IjOHN L. McGOUGH, one of the representa- 
tive and prosperous young farmers of Han 
t i] over township, is a descendant of a well- 
^^ known pioneer family. His grandfather, 
named Robert McGough, was born in Ireland, and 
when a young man came to America, first locating 
in Jefferson township, Washington Co., Penn. 
He there married Mary 1'rovines, a native of County 
Tyrone, Ireland, who came to America with her 
parents in early girlhood. To this union were 
bom children as follows: William, went to Jeffer- 
son county, Ohio, where he died; John, of Colum- 
biana county, Ohio; Mary Ann, widow of E. S. 
Campbell; Robert, of whom a sketch follows; Sarah 
(Mrs. Absalom McCul lough) and Rebecca, widow 
of James Neil, Wellsville, Ohio, twins; Samuel of 
Wellsville, Ohio, and Andy (deceased). The only 
capital of Robert McGough was a good supply of 
energy and industry. Year after year saw his 
possessions increase, and at the time of his death 
he owned six farms, with which he gave all his 
children a good start in life. In politics he was a 
Democrat, and in religion he and his wife were 
members of the U. P. Church at Burgettstown. 
They were buried in the Burgettstown U. P. 
cemetery. 

Robert McGough, son of Robert and Mary 
(Provines) McGough, was born in 1831, in Jeffer- 
son township, and received a good education. He 
partially learned the surveyor's profession, but de- 
voted most of his life to farming. In 1860 he was 
married to Mary M. Lee, daughter of John Lee, of 
Jefferson township, who bore him the following 
children: John L., William W. (a carpenter of 
Steubenville, Ohio), Mary (wife of William An- 
derson, of Jefferson township) and Samuel B. 
(deceased in youth). After his marriage Robert 
McGough lived for some time with his father in 
Jefferson township, and in 1861 came to Hanover 
township, locating on the farm where he died in 
October, 1880, and was buried in Burgettstown. He 
was an excellent judge of cattle, and devoted con- 
siderable attention to that department of agricult- 
ure. In politics he affiliated with the Democratic 



406 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



party — and held various offices in the township. 
After his death Mrs. McGough resided for seven 
years on the old home farm, then removed to Steu 
benville, Ohio, where she is living. 

JohnL. McGough was born December 25, I860, in 
Jefferson township, having been but an infant when 
his parents removed to Hanover township. He was 
reared to manhood on the farm which is his pres- 
ent home, receiving a common-school education. 
On September 25, 1884, he was married to Belle 
Stephenson, who was born May 14, 1860, a daugh- 
ter of David and Rachel (Noah) Stephenson, of 
Jefferson township. To this union two children 
were born: Vance L. and Elsie D. Mr. and Mrs. 
McGough have always resided on the home place, 
following farming and stockraising. The spirit 
of progression, so characteristic a trait in the lives 
of father and grandfather, is equally marked in 
the acts of John L. McGough. Politically he is a 
Democrat, and in religion both he and his wife are 
members of the M. E. Church. 



R. McC'loy livery establishment, which he is now 
conducting. He is an active politician of the 
Democratic party, a progressive citizen and ener- 
getic man. 




P. FULTON, a prosperous and well- 
known liveryman of Canonsburg, is a 
grandson of William Fulton, whose par- 
ents were of Scotch- Irish descent, and first 
located in Baltimore, Md., where many of the family 
yet remain. The branch of which William was a 
member finally settled in Smith township, Wash- 
ington Co., Penn. He was born in Maryland, 
and was a young man at the time the family moved 
to the county. He was married to Mary Campbell, 
whose parents were also pioneer settlers of Wash- 
ington county, and the young people settled on the 
old homestead in Mt. Pleasant township, this county. 
They were both members of the Mt. Prospect Pres- 
byterian Church. 

George Fulton, a sou of William and Mary 
(Campbell) Fulton, was born on the home farm in 
Mt. Pleasant township, where his early education 
was received. \\ Inn a young man he was united 
in marriage with Jemima J., daughter of Benja- 
min and Rebecca Piukerton. He always followed 
agricultural pursuits on the old place, where his 
children were born as follows: David, Minerva 
(wife of John Christie), W. P., Greta O. and Lulu 
M. The father took an active interest in all public 
movements, and voted with the Democratic party. 
In religion he was a member and liberal supporter 
of theMt. Prospect Presbyterian Church. He and 
the wife of his youth lie side by Bide in the Mt. 
Pr< i-pect cemetery. 

W. P. Fulton was born August 10, 1865, on the 
old home farm in Mt. Pleasant township, this 
eoun'y. and attended the neighboring schools. In 
1888 he took a trip West, remaining one year in 
Nebraska, then returning home settled in Hickory, 
this county. In March, 1891, he purchased the C. 



JAMES PROVINES, a well-known farmer of 
Jefferson township, was born February 13, 
1816, on the farm which he now owns. He 
is a son of William Provines, whose father, 
John, was born and reared among the hills of 
Scotland, where he was married, and whence, a few 
years later, he moved to Ireland. William, the son 
of John Provines, was born in Scotland, and came 
with the family to Ireland when a boy. He was 
there reared to agricultural pursuits, and was mar- 
ried to Rebecca Hemphill, a native of Ireland. 
William Provines remained in Ireland about ten 
years after his marriage, and there his three eldest 
children — Mary, Samuel and Andrew — were born. 
In 1812 the family came to America, locating in 
Washington county, Penn., where children were 
born as follows: John, Robert, Margaret, James, 
Sarah, Jane and Rebecca. 

James-Provines was early trained to agricultural 
pursuits, and has always followed that vocation. 
He was first married November 13, 1851, to Mary 
Campbell, of Smith township, Washington Co., 
■ Penn.; she was born January 4, 1817. After their 
marriage the young people settled on the home 
farm, and four children were born to them, namely: 
Mary S. (living with her parents); Rebecca H., 
wife of W. P. Shillito; John C, and Margaret, the 
two latter being deceased. Mrs. Provines died 
November 20, 1856, and Mr. Provines was after- 
ward married March 7, 1861, to Mary L. Mort- 
land, who was born January 16, 1824. a daughter 
of Robert and Jane (Provines) Mortland, natives 
of County Tyrone, Ireland. Politically Mr. Pro- 
vines is an active Democrat, although not a strict 
partisan. He has been an earnest member of the 
United Presbyterian Church of Burgettstown for 
many years, anil is one of its most liberal sup- 
porters. 



CAPTAIN J. FULTON BELL, a gallant 
officer of the Civil war, was born near Jeffer- 
son, Greene Co., Penn., August 23, 1841. 
His father's ancestors in this country were 
of Scotch descent, and his paternal grandmother 
was a near relation of Harrod, of Boone county, 
Ky , fame, hence the bravery and daring of the 
descendant. 

The parents of Capt. J. F. Bell were both natives 
of Pennsylvania, born in Morgan township, Greene 
county, the father, Levi Harrod Bell, on March 12, 
lS07;'the mother, Sarah Fulton Bell, on July 2, 
same year. They were married February 2, 1826, 







^J^z^t^o 




WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



409 



and bad a family of three sons and ten daughters, 
as follows: Mrs. Catherine Greenlee (deceased), 
born August 9, 1S28; Rachel, born January 4, 1831, 
died September 19, 1837; Jane, born March 15, 
1832, died November 2, 1852; Mrs. Elizabeth 
Galbraith, born March 20, 1834, now living in 
Des Moines, Iowa; Mary, born July 23, 1836, died 
March 22, 1837; Sarah F., born December 31, 
1837, married to Col. Hiram Milligau Miller , 
late of the Second Missouri Cavalry, and now in 
Kahoka Mo. ; Mrs. Letticia Reynolds (deceased), 
born December 1, 1839 (she was a student at 
Lewisburg (Penn.) Seminary (Baptist), now Buck- 
nell University, and graduated from same); Capt. 
John Fulton (subject of sketch); Mrs. Eliza- 
beth Hughes, born July 7, 1843, now living near 
Des Moines, Iowa (she was a student at same sem- 
inary as her sister Letticia); Isaac, born February 
24, 1845, now in Kahoka, Mo. ; Mrs. Margaret 
Anne Shaw, born December 15, 1846, now a resi- 
dent of St. Paul, Minn. ; James McVay, born 
April 13, 1848, residing in Morgantown, W. Va. ; 
and Emma, born July 15, 1850 (deceased). The 
father of this family died in 1862, in Amwell town- 
ship, Washington county, and was buried at Mt. 
Hermon; the mother passed away in 1871 at St. 
Francesville, Mo., and her remains lie interred 
near that place. Mr. Levi H. Bell was ordained 
one of the deacons of Jefferson Baptist Church, and 
on his removal to Washington county was ordained 
a deacon of Mt. Hermon Baptist Church. 

Capt. J. Fulton Bell lived near Jefferson, Greene 
county, until he was nineteen years of age, and in 
the summer of I860 he attended George's Creek 
Academy, Fayette county, Penn. He removed 
with his father to Washington county in Novem- 
ber, 1860, the latter having purchased what is 
known as the old "Paul Farm," it being a portion 
of the old "Cook Patent." On August 22, 1862, 
he enlisted at Amity, Washington county, in 
Company D, One Hundred and Fortieth P. V. 
I., and was promoted June 21, 1863, from the 
rank of corporal to that of sergeant. On Novem- 
ber 1, 1863, he became first sergeant; on July 
20, 1864, near City Point, Va. , he was commis- 
sioned, by Gov. Andy Curtin of Pennsylvania 
(known as the '' War Governor"), first lieutenant. 
On May 17, 1865, he became captain of his 
company, in which capacity he remained until 
mustered out May 31, 1865, near Alexandria 
Va. Having been promoted from the ranks, he 
was afterward known as " the boy who went out as 
eighth corporal, and came back as captain." The 
regiment in which he served (One Hundred and 
Fortieth P. V. I.) ranked third in casualties, and 
was perhaps entitled to the first place in regard to 
enlistments and length of time in service. On the 
second day at Gettysburg, near Little Round Top, 
or " Devil's Den," this regiment lost 276 officers 



and men in less than an hour, Col. Richard P. 
Roberts and Capt. David Acheson, senior captain, 
being among the number. This regiment was in 
service thirty-three months, and took part in some 
twenty-five engagements, beginning at Chancellors- 
ville and ending at Appomattox. After his return 
from the war Capt. Bell engaged in farming 
(having purchased in 1868 the home farm) and 
stock raising, of which he has made a success. 

On May 6, 1868, the captain was married to 
Lydia Ross, daughter of Judge Benjamin and 
Hannah (Johns) Ross, of Ruff Creek, Greene Co., 
Penn., who were born March 17, 1802, and June 
9, 1811, respectively. They were the parents of 
eleven children, as follows: Mrs. Catherine Cox 
(deceased), born September 20, 1829 (she was 
educated at a school in Chester county, Perm); 
Mrs. Rachel Dunn (deceased), born July 7, 1831; 
Thomas, born October 8, 1833 (crossed the. Plains 
to California in 1858); Elizabeth Ann (deceased), 
born December 2, 1835; Abner, born March 30, 
1838 (he is ex-State senator and ex-sheriff of 
Greene county), Jacob, born July 17, 1S40 (he 
served in the Anderson troops in the Civil war); 
Mrs. Lydia Bell, born January 6, 1843; Benjamin 
F., born November 18, 1846 (he spent several 
years in the mines of Colorado) ; Nathaniel 
(deceased), born August 12, 1849: Hannah Maria 
(deceased), born June 9, 1853; and Heath J., born 
July 12, 1858 (is at present district attorney of 
Greene couuty). Capt. Bell and his wife have five 
children, Benjamin Harrod (was for two years a 
student of Monougahela College), Sarah Frances 
(educated at Waynesburg College), now engaged in 
teaching, Lyda Emma (attending Washington Fe- 
male Seminary), Abner Ross, and James Franklin. 

Politically the Captain has always been a Repub- 
lican, and with the exception of one year has been 
commander of Philo Paul Post No. 458, G. A. R., 
ever since it was organized, in October, 1884. In 
1890 he was enumerator for the second precinct of 
Amwell township. Capt. Bell is one of the most 
highly esteemed residents of Washington couuty, 
enjoying the record of an honorable career in the 
service of his country, and he has faithfully dis- 
charged his duties of a private citizen in all times 
of peace. Both the Captain and Mrs. Bell are 
members of Mt. Hermon Baptist Church (Wash- 
ington county), as are their three eldest children, 
the former being elected to the office of Deacon 
several years ago. On the contemplating of the 
building of the Waynesburg & Washington Narrow 
Gauge Railroad, Capt. Bell was a member of one 
of the soliciting committees to raise money and 
procure the right of way, and was in a measure 
successful, subscribing several shares of stock. 
After the completion of the road he was elected 
one of the directors and reelected for two suc- 
cessive terms. 



410 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



d;OHN FRESHWATER, a leading farmer and 
small fruit grower of Hanover township, is a 
! native of Brooke county, W. Va., of which lo- 
cality his ancestors were early residents. This 
gentleman and his family are descended from three 
brothers who came into Wesi Virginia soon after 
the beginning of the present century, and located 
in the territory which is now Brooke county. 

The brothers were named, respectively, Reuben, 
Archibald and David, who came from east of the 
mountains, and were born east of the mountains. 
Of these, Archibald was the grandfather of our 
subject. After locating in West Virginia he was 
married to Sarah Gardner, a native of Jefferson 
township, Washington county, who bore him the 
following children: John, who went to Armstrong 
county, Penn., afterward settling in Pittsburgh, 
Penn. ; Archibald, of whom a sketch is given; Will- 
iam, moved to Van Bnren county, Iowa; Fanny, 
married to Josiah Jones, a resident of Wellsburgb, 
W. Va. ; David, moved to Wood county, W. Va. ; 
and Elizabeth, wife of Samuel Wright, resided near 
Chambersburgh, Penn. Of this family David is 
the only one living. The parents passed their lives 
on the farm in Washington county, where the 
father was a successful agriculturist, and where he 
died in 1856 at a ripe old age. After his death 
his widow remained for some time on the home 
place, then went to Wood county, W. Va., and 
lived with her son, David, until she too was called 
to enter the "valley of the shadow of death." 

Archibald, son of Archibald and Sarah (Gardner) 
Freshwater, was born March 16, 1814, in Brooke 
county, W. Va., remaining on the farm during his 
boyhood and attending the subscription schools. 
In 1837 he was married to Elizabeth Truax, who 
bore him the following children: William, a farmer 
of Hanover township, born July 22, 1838; Archi- 
bald, deceased farmer of Hanover township, born 
October 6, 1839; Sarah Ann, deceased wife of 
David Smith, of Hanover township, born February 
28, 1841; David, born June It, l843;Elias, a black- 
smith of Paris, Penn., born March 22, 1845; John, 
whose name opens this sketch; Mary Jane, of Col- 
liers, W. Va., born September 22, 1849; Elizabeth 
Amanda, Mrs. James Caldwell, of Hanover town- 
ship, born March 5, 1852; and James, a farmer of 
Hanover township, born Decembers, 1854. After 
his marriage Archibald Freshwater rented a farm in 
Hancock county, W. Va. ; remaining there for some 
time, then went to Brooke county, W. Va. , and in 
L853 came to Hanover township, Washington Co., 
Penn., where his latter days were passed in agri- 
cultural pursuits. He died in 1883, having been 
preceded by his wife in 1876, and both now lie 
buried in the Paris cemetery. Mr. Freshwater was 
a member of the Methodist Church, his wife hav- 
ing been identified with the Baptist Society. In 
politics he was a Democrat. 



John Freshwater was born February 10, 1847, 
and when but six years of age came with his par- 
ents to Washington county. He attended the com- 
mon schools of the home district, and when a young 
man began to learn the blacksmith trade, but after 
serving three months of an apprenticeship gave up 
the trade, and later was employed on the P., 0. & 
St. L. R. R. for two years. On December 1 5, 
IsTu, he was united in marriage with Margaret 
Wells, who was born June '23, 1S47, in Brooke 
county, W. Va., a daughter of James and Margaret 
(Crall) Wells. The Wells family were among the 
leading pioneers of Brooke county. The children 
of John and Margaret Freshwater are as follows: 
Lawrence A., Fred O, Emma F., Harry B., John 
W. , Oscar C. , Beulah J. and Lydia E. , all of whom 
are living at home. Mr. and Mrs. Freshwater be- 
gan wedded life on a farm in Hanover township. 
In 1881 he purchased the "Matthew Russell" farm, 
where he has ever since resided. In addition to 
farming he is extensively engaged in the raising 
of small fruits and berries, and belongs to the pro- 
gressive, wide-awake type of agriculturists. In 
politics he is a Democrat, and is a highly esteemed 
citizen of the community. Mrs. Freshwater is a 
member of the Presbyterian Church. 



^ EZIN C. WOODFILL. Among the pre- 

f) Revolutionary settlers of Washington 



V county was Joseph Wood till, who was born 



R 

Jj ^'September 17, 1754, and six years later 
V came to East Bethlehem township, Wash- 

ington county. Here he studied after the fashion 
of boys of that period, and became a Methodist 
Episcopal preacher. His marriage with Miss Cath- 
erine Gudshell took place October 20, 1777, and to 
this union the following named children were born: 
Joseph, Catherine, Mary, Elizabeth, Rezin and 
John. 

Rezin Woodrill was born December 20, 1792, in 
East Bethlehem township, and there was reared to 
manhood in a pioneer log cabin. His educational 
advantages were necessarily limited, as opportuni- 
ties were few, and time was money in those early 
days. On December 4, 1817, he married .Miss 
Sarah Dotson, and to this union were born: Jo- 
seph D., July 30, 1819 (a farmer of East Bethlehem, 
who married Mary White, November 7, 1S44, and 
they are the parents of Andrew, Margaret, Ella, 
White, Oliver, Mary and Bert Woodrill I; John B. 
(a farmer of Fayette county, Penn.); William M. 
(a grocer in Washington borough); Mary (widow 
of S. Bromfield, of Fayette county, Penn.), Andrew 
(who died while at college, Meadville, Penn); 
James (who died at California, Penn.): Melinda (de- 
ceased); Charles W. (a physician, who died in 
Preston county, W. Va.); Rezin C. (the subject of 
this notice) and Lizzie Ball. The father of this 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



411 



family voted with the Republican party, and in re- 
ligions affairs affiliated with the Methodist Episco- 
pal Chinch. Both parents are numbered with the 
majority. 

liezin C. Woodfill, son of Rezin and Sarah Wood- 
rill, was born July 9, 1833, on the home farm. 
Having received the education which the schools 
of the district afforded, he set out for Iowa with the 
intention of remaining in that State; but his health 
failing, he returned to Pennsylvania, and worked 
for his father on the home farm; after his mother's 
death he bought the interests of the other heirs in 
the estate. On October 11, 1862, Mr. Rezin was 
married to Maggie C. Ridlingshafer, of Browns- 
ville, Penn., and to this marriage were born Will- 
iam J. (a carpenter), Charles R., John C, Frank 
G. , Jesse S., Ollie B., Le Roy, Sallie J., Annie 
L. and May L. AVith the exception of John C. 
and Frank G., who are clerks at Brownsville, all re- 
side with the parents. All are members of the 
M. E. Church. Mr. Rezin C. Woodfill is a Repub- 
lican. The home farm embraces seventy-six acres 
of fertile land, which is devoted to agriculture. 



many years he was captain in the State militia, 
and at one time was a candidate for the State Leg- 
islature, having been a prominent man in the Jef- 
fersonian Democratic party. He was a member of 
the Presbyterian Church at Pigeon Creek. Mr. 
Hootman died in 1868, followed by his wife in 
1878. Washington Parkson, a brother of Mrs. 
David Hootman, was a prominent actor in the 
Whisky Insurrection, and the pardon which he re- 
ceived from George Washington is still in the pos- 
session of Mr. Hootman' s brother. 

Christian Hootman was born in 1828 in Notting- 
ham township, and attended the home schools 
during his boyhood. When a young man he was 
united in marriage with Ursula Myers, who has 
borne him the following children: David H. 
(deceased). William W., James P., Jerry M., and 
Dora A. Mr. Hootman has served his township in 
various offices, and votes the Democratic ticket- 
He owns 120 acres of the old home place, having 
remained at home until the death of his parents. 
He and his family are members of the Presbyterian 
Church at Pigeon Creek. 



CHRISTIAN HOOTMAN is a well-known and 
prosperous representative of one of the 
pioneer families of Washington county. He 
is a grandson of David Hootman, who was 
of German birth, and as a Hessian soldier, in the 
pay of the British, came to America in the Revo- 
lutionary war. No sooner did an opportunity 
offer, than the brave young German deserted from 
the British ranks, and enlisted as a drummer-boy 
with the patriots in their struggle for liberty. 

After the close of the Revolution, he remained 
in America, and it is supposed located in Donegal 
township, Washington Co. , Penn., about the year 
1780, where he remained until his death, in 1859, 
after a life of nearly a century. He was married 
in Washington county, and to this marriage were 
born: Henry, Jacob, John, David, Christopher, 
Mrs. Fannie Miller, and Mrs. Catherine Shaler. 
Mr. Hootman was a Democrat, and held several 
offices in the township. 

David Hootman, father of the subject of this 
sketch, was born in 1793, in Donegal township, 
this county, where he passed his whole life. He 
attended the rate schools, and became a very well- 
informed and successful man. When about fifteen 
years of age he learned the blacksmith's trade, and 
after an apprenticeship of four years, opened an 
office on the Monongahela pike. In 1815 he mar- 
ried Nancy, daughter of Benjamin Parkson, of 
Nottingham township, and she bore him nine chil- 
dren: Benjamin, David, John, Clarinda, Polly, 
Mrs. Nancy Hill, Christian, William and Anderson. 
David Hootman began life with 6^ cents, and at 
his death the estate was valued at $40 000. For 



dfAMES C. WALKER, a wealthy and influen- 
j tial farmer of Jefferson township, is a son of 
j James Walker, whose grandfather, David, 
was born in New Jersey, and was there 
married to Elizabeth Elliott, of the same State. 
Soon after their marriage David and Elizabeth 
Walker moved to Huntingdon county, Penn., and, 
about 1772, settled near a little town called Burnt 
Cabins. Here the following children were born 
and reared; Alexander, John, David, James, 
Martha, Sarah (Mrs. Cree), Susan, Polly and Isa- 
belle, all of whom are now deceased. 

Alexander Walker was born May 10, 1773, in 
Huntingdon county, Penn., and worked on the 
home farm until 1795. He then came to Wash- 
ington county, settling in Jefferson township on 
the place now owned by his son Samuel. Here 
Alexander Walker was married, October 26, 1800, 
to Elizabeth Norris, who was born December 8, 
1778. The young people settled on the home 
farm, which Mr. Walker managed in connection 
with distilling, the latter being at that time as im- 
portant an industry as milling. The children 
born to Mr. and Mrs. Alexander Walker were as 
follows: Elizabeth, born February 22, 1802; John, 
born June 8, 1803; David, born September 19, 
1804; James, born January 1, 1807; John N, born 
June 24, 1808; Susanna, born December 22, 1809; 
Alexander, born June 21, 1811; Mary Ann, born 
February 7, 1814; David S., born July 6, 1816; 
Isabella, born November 17, 1818; Drusilla, born 
February 16, 1821; and Samuel, born April 18, 
1823. The father of this family died September 



412 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



8, 1854, and was followed by the mother Decem- 
ber 17, 1855. 

James Walker (the father of subject) passed his 
youth on the old Walker homestead, and October 

9, 1828, was married to Elizabeth Graham, a native 
of this county. They have passed all their wedded 
life in the old house on the home farm, where six 
children have been born to them, namely: Olivia, 
bom in March, 1830; John G., born in August, 
L831 ; Alexander, born in August, 1833; William 
W., born in August, 183(3; Ann D., born August 
28, 183S; and James C, born August 14, 1842. 

James C. Walker was born and reared on the 
old farm, and in early manhood was united in 
marriage with Eliza, daughter of William Vanord- 
strandt, a native of Washington county. After his 
marriage James immediately bought out the inter- 
est of the other heirs in the homestead, and made 
it his permanent home. One daughter blessed 
this union: Anna E., born in 1802 (now married to 
B. B. Stroud, of Independence). The mother died 
October 12, 1862, and Mr. Walker married Hannah 
E. Caldwell, November 21, 1807, of Hanover town- 
ship, who bore him two sons: Norris, born Novem- 
ber 24, 1868, and James, born February 5, 1873. 
Mrs. Hannah E. Walker died January 26, 1875, 
and March 20, 1878, Mr. Walker married Belle 
Sutherland, of Smithtield, Ohio. They have three 
children, namely: Mary M., born May 3, 1881; 
John Sherman, born January 0, 1883; and Bessie 
Graham, born April 19, 1884, Mr. Walker is a 
farmer and stock raiser, and owns 200 acres of tine 
land, upon which he has erected a handsome resi- 
dence. In politics he is a stanch Republican, and 
in religion a liberal supporter of the Presbyterian 
Church. 

M. HANLIN. The Hanliu family for al- 
most a century have been identified with the 
progress and development of Hanover town- 
ship. They have assisted in the advance- 
ment and support of all enterprises which 
have served to place this township in its present 
position among the magnificent galaxy of town- 
ships contained in Washington county, Penn. 

The present generation of this family trace their 
ancestry to four brothers, John, William, James 
and Alexander, who were children of Alexander 
and Nancy (Stewart) Hanliu, and natives of County 
Tyrone, Ireland. The father dying in County Ty- 
rone, the family, consisting of the widow, four 
sons and three daughters (Elizabeth, Nancy and 
Jane), came to America in 1792. Their first loca- 
tion was in Lancaster county, Penn., where the 
sons engaged in various kinds of employment. 
Energy and health formed their sole capital. 
One daughter, Nancy, was married in eastern Penn- 
sylvania, and there passed her days. Between 1 795 
and 1800 the other members of the family came 




farther west, locating on the waters of Buffalo 
creek, in Washington county, on the " Lawton 
Farm." The brothers continued to work in part- 
nership until the beginning of the present century, 
when James purchased land near Paris, Hanover 
township, this county, and followed the river, 
making trips to New Orleans. He was married 
to a Miss Mills. William, John and Alexander 
jointly purchased of one John Campbell a large 
tract of land near Harmon's creek, in Han- 
over township, to which they moved. William was 
affianced to Anna, daughter of John Fulton, of 
Hanover township, and his wedding day was set, 
but he died before the marriage was consummated. 
John Hanlin was born in 1771 in County Tyrone, 
Ireland, and in 1823, married Nancy Hanlin, a 
distant relative and native of Ireland. Her parents 
came to America, locating in Steubenville, Ohio, 
leaving their infant daughter with an aunt in Ire- 
land, with whom she crossed the ocean when 
but two years of age. To the union of John and 
Nancy Hanlin the following children were born: 
A. M., Margery (unmarried, living with her broth- 
er in Hanover township), William, John (a farmer 
of Hanover township), James (deceased) and Eliza 
(unmarried, living with her brothers). After 
his marriage John Hanlin located on that por- 
tion of the original tract which the three broth- 
ers had purchased, where he resided the re- 
mainder of his life. He died in 1846, a respected 
citizen, kind-hearted and generous. In 1878 his 
widow passed away at the advanced age of eighty- 
six years. She was buried beside her husband in 
St. John's Protestant Episcopal cemetery, Brooke 
county, W. Va. They were both members of that 
church. 

A. M. Hanlin was born June 18, 1824, on the 
old farm which is yet his home, where he was 
reared to manhood, and attended the country 
schools of the time. He married Rowena Swear- 
ingeu Ma)- 1, 1860. She was born in 1832, and 
was a daughter of Capt. Samuel Swearingen, of 
Beaver county. Their children are as fol- 
lows: Lewis S., Anna E., Samuel A., James L., 
and Maud L. , all of whom are living athome. Mr. 
Hanlin has always resided on the old place, being 
engaged in general farming and stock raising. He 
has given considerable attention to the sheep in- 
dustry. He was first a Whig, then a Republican, 
having taken an active interest in politics, but DOW 
gives way to the younger politicians. Both he and 
his wife are members of the Disciple Church. 



THE ANDERSON FAMILY are anions the 
most prominent and esteemed citizens of 
Cross Creek township. They trace their 
ancestry to one Francis Anderson, of Butler 
county, Penn. He was of Scotch parent- 
age, and when a young man came west to try the 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



413 



hard and perilous life of a hunter. In this vo- 
cation he soon achieved a reputation as one of 
the most skilled and successful hunters of the 
day. In a short time, he had saved a portion 
of his earnings, and buying a small farm, com- 
bined agricultural pursuits with his former vo- 
cation. As old age drew near, the excitement 
and danger of life among the forests lost its 
power to charm, and he longed for the more 
quiet, if less eventful, life of the home. He 
retired from the ranks of Nimrod's followers, 
being at that time the owner of over 1,000 acres 
of land, and devoted the remnant of life to agri- 
cultural pursuits. With his children and grand- 
children around him, the old hero would then 
relate exciting tales of adventures with panthers, 
bears and other wild animals of the forest. Thus 
living again the hunter life, he would for the time 
forget his surroundings, and with flashing eye and 
panting breath describe some fierce contest with 
savage beasts. In peace and comfort the old man 
passed his declining days, and died at a good old 
age, leaving children as follows: John, Francis, 
Robert, James, Samuel, Elizabeth, Jane and Sarah, 
01 whom Elizabeth and Sarah are living. 

Robert Anderson was born June 17, 1809, in 
Butler county, Penn., where lie grew to manhood 
on the farm. At the age of nineteen years he 
began working on the Pennsylvania Canal, thus 
earning enough money to enter an academy, 
which he attended for some time. He then entered 
the Jefferson College, of Canonsburg, Penn., 
graduated in 1832, and began the study of medi- 
cine under the celebrated Dr. Jonathan Leather- 
man, of Canonsburg. While pursuing his medical 
studies, the young man frequently taught short 
terms of school, tinallv graduating from the Jeffer- 
son Medical College, of Philadelphia. He began 
to practice his profession in the town of Hickory, 
Washington county, but soon after came to Cross 
Creek village, remaining there until his death. 
Robert Anderson was united in marriage with 
Miss Agnes Cochran, a native of Canonsburg, a 
daughter of the late Henry Cochran, a prominent 
farmer and stock raiser of that place. The chil- 
dren born to this union were: Henry C. , Jane, 
Lizzie, Francis, James E., Robert and Joseph. 
Mr. Anderson was a member of the Cross Creek 
Presbyterian Church. In politics he was a stanch 
Republican, being one of the leaders of that party. 
In the year 1800 he was elected to the State Legis- 
lature, holding that office two years, meanwhile 
winning a reputation for strict integrity and honor 
as well as intellectual power. Of his children 
there are yet living: Henry C, Robert and Joseph. 

Henry C. Anderson (the eldest son) was born 
November 9, 1834, at Canonsburg, and when but 
two years of age was brought to Cross Creek vil- 
lage by his parents. He passed his youth on the 



farm which his father purchased soon after arriv- 
ing in Cross Creek, and attended the academy at 
that place for several terms, thus laying the foun- 
dation for the extensive literary work in which he 
has been employed. After leaving school he 
selected as his life companion, Margaret J. McFar- 
land, daughter of Andrew McFarland, a tailor of 
Grant City, Mo. Their children are as follows: 
Flora, Francis, Emma, Charles E., Cassius B. , 
Hattie May, Laura Jeanette, James L., Sarah 
Isadore and Robert Harold. Henry C. Anderson 
is an ardent Republican, is connected with Grange, 
and for many years has been a correspondent of 
the Farmers' Friend, of Mechauicsburgh, also of the 
Presbyterian Banner, of Pittsburgh. He has 
written, much valuable history for the county pa- 
pers, and in church work has been superintendent 
of the Presbyterian Sabbath-school four years. 

Robert Anderson was born October 8, 1840, in 
Cross Creek village. He remained on the farm 
during boyhood, assisting in agricultural work, 
and receiving a common-school education. He 
afterward attended the Duff Business College, 
from which he graduated in 1805. He married 
Sarah N. Stephenson, of Smith township, Wash- 
ington county, daughter of Mark Stephenson, a 
prominent farmer of that neighborhood. They 
have three children: Nannie I., Robert S. and 
Edna O., all living at home. After his marriage 
Mr. Anderson settled on the place in Cross Creek 
where he has since resided, with the exception of 
three years, during which time he kept store in 
Cross Creek village. The farm consists of 120 
acres of good land. Robert Anderson is a mem- 
ber of the Cross Roads Presbyterian Church, to 
which he gives liberally. In politics he is a Re- 
publican, beiDg an active and influential member 
of that party, having served his township as road 
supervisor and census enumerator. Mr. Anderson 
is one of the most respected citizens of the com- 
munity, and a successful, honorable business man. 



ti=$b EORGE JEFFERSON LONG. This well- 
|| known citizen of East Pike Run township 

V was born at Brownsville, Fayette Co. Penn.. 

^^\ November 9, 1820. He is descended from 
the early Irish colonists of Maryland. 
Luke Long, paternal grandfather of our subject, 
was born in Harford county, Md. , early in the eight- 
eenth century, and there passed his entire life, as an 
agriculturist. His wife was a Miss Whittick, also a 
native of Maryland, who bore him three sons and 
two daughters: John (father of George Jefferson), 
James (who when a young man took a trading boat 
down the Ohio, and was never after heard of), 
Isaac, Mary and Priscilla, all of whom died un- 
married except John. In religious faith these 
children were Methodists, and in political affilia- 



414 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



tions the sous, like their immediate antecedents, 
were Democrats. The father of this family died 
at the patriarchal age of ninety-seven years, the 
mother at the age of fifty-six. 

John Long married Eliza, daughter of Jonathan 
and Jane Worrell, who were the parents of chil- 
dren as follows: Stephen, Samuel, George, Na- 
than J., Leonard, John, Eliza, Jane and Elmira. 
Of tbese Stephen (of Lancaster county) died leav- 
ing four children — two daughters, and two sons 
George and Leonard; Samuel married a Miss Mc- 
Claiu, and had five children; George wedded a Miss 
Hall, and had two children; Nathan J. married a 
Miss Hall and had children as follows: Albert, 
Jane and Samuel; Leonard married Melley Stew, 
and died leaving no heir; John wedded Hannah 
Worrell, and had by her the following named 
children: Hiram, Nathan, William, Dix, John. 
Samuel and Ann; Jane was married to Robert 
Raley, and had children; Elmira became the wife 
of John Bowers, and their children were Frank, 
John and Mary. The Worrells were of Dutch 
descent, Whigs and Republicans in their political 
predilections. Shortly after marriage John and 
Eliza (Worrell) Long moved to Brownsville, Penn., 
where children were born to them as follows; 
Isaac, Mary Jane (married to Isaac Wright and had 
children of whom Luke, William, Samuel, Eliz- 
abeth and Mary survive), George J., John H., 
Sarah Ann (married to I. N. Duval, and has chil- 
dren), and James L. The last named, who is a 
resident of Reynoldsville, Penn., and a carpenter 
by trade, married Louisa Powell, of California, 
this county, and has one daughter, Kate V., with 
whom her father resides, her mother having died 
in 1888. John H. and James L. both served in the 
Civil war. John Long, the father of this family, 
was a painter. He was born in Hartford county, 
Md.. died at Coal Centre, Penn., April 2, 1864. 

George Jefferson Long was, as has already been 
stated, but a child when his mother died, and the 
family, bereft of a loving mother's care, were all 
separated and widely scattered, to live in new 
homes. On New Year's Day, 1839, then a lad of 
some thirteen summers, our subject became one of j 
the family of Isaac Ailes, in the house where now 
resides Coleman Ailes, and here the orphan boy 
found a home in truth; so kind to him were these , 
noble people that a stranger could not distinguish, 
from any word or act, that he was other than one 
of their own progeny. Here he remained until at- 
taining his majority, in the meantime learning the 
trade of carpenter, which he followed to some ex- 
tent in after life. In L861 he commenced the busi- 
ness of undertaker at Coal Centre, which he has 
since successfully carried on, although he is now 
comparatively retired. 

At the age of thirty-five Mr. Long was united 
in marriage with Frances, daughter of Andrew H. 



and Mary Holmes, and one son blessed their union, 
named Walter A. , now in the coal business at Cin- 
cinnati, Ohio. Mrs. Long was called to her final 
rest May 13, 1883. She, as has always been her 
husband, was an earnest supporter of the M. E. 
Church. Mr. Long united, June 22, 1869 with 
the Pike Run I. O. O. F., at California, and was a 
charter member of Yista Lodge at Coal Centre; 
he has filled all the Chairs in the Lodge, and is a 
member of the Encampment. In politics he acts 
with the Republican party. 




LBERT R. COLWELL traces his geneal- 
ogy to his grandfather, James, who was the 
first of his family to locate in America. 

James Colwell was born, reared and 
married in Ireland. Emigrating to Amer- 
ica, be located near Paris, in Hanover township. 
Washington Co., Penn. In the midst of the forest 
his cabin was erected, and he passed the remainder 
of his life as a ''tiller of the soil." He and his wife 
died, and were buried in the Paris cemetery. 
James Colwell was a prominent man, highly re- 
spected by all, and was elected squire by the 
Democratic party, of which he was an enthusiastic 
supporter. The children of his family were as 
follows: Samuel, whose life was passed on the home 
farm; William lived in Carroll county. Ohio; Jo- 
seph resided in Hanover township, this county; 
Elizabeth married Matthew Russell, of Hanover 
township; Thomas; Jane, Mrs. Parks; Andrew; 
Robert and James. All are now deceased. 

Andrew Colwell was born in 1808 on the farm 
where his father located on coming to this county. 
His active, energetic spirit became apparent from 
childhood, aud when a young man he took 
charge of the home farm, which prospered under 
his care. In 1838 he married Isabella McGon- 
nigle, who was born about 1811, in Hanover town- 
ship. She was the daughter of William McGon- 
nigle, a native of Ireland, who was there married, 
and coming to America located in Maryland, and 
came to Hanover township about the beginning 
of the present century. Five children were born 
to Andrew and Isabella Colwell, namely: Robert, 
residing in Brooke county, W. Va. ; James, of New- 
ton county, Mo.; Albert R., our subject; William 
H., living in Brooke county, \V. Va. ; and Martha 
E., Mrs. John Freshwater, of Toronto, Ohio. After 
his marriage Andrew Colwell continued to reside 
on the old farm until 1854, when he went to Han- 
cock county, W. Va. Beginning life with little 
capital, he improved every opportunity, and at the 
time of his death owned over 400 acres of land in 
Pennsylvania and West Virginia. He was among 
the first to engage extensively in the wool industry, 
in which he was very successful. Politically he 
was a Democrat until the time of Henrv Clav's 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



415 



nomination for President, when he joined the Whig 
party, finally becoming a Republican. Both he 
and his wife were members of the Presbyterian 
Church. He died in 1870, and was buried in the 
cemetery at Paris, this county, where his wife was 
also laid to rest in 1880. 

Albert R. Colwell was born February 27, 1842, 
in the old home in Hanover township, which 
he now owns. He attended the common schools of 
his neighborhood, and worked on the farm until his 
enlistment, August 9, 1862, at Wellsburg, W. Va., 
in Company K, Twelfth West Virginia Infantry. 
His first active engagement was at Winchester. 
Va. He was wounded June 9, 1S64, at New Mar- 
ket, having been shot through the side, and was 
sent to the hospital at Martinsburgh, remaining 
there three months, then rejoined his regiment, 
and served until the close of the war, when he was 
honorably discharged, and returned to Brooke 
county, W. Va. OnMay29, 1877, he was married 
to Mary Criss, who was born in 1S54, a daughter 
of Nicholas and Nancy (Wilson) Criss, of Hanover 
township. The young people first settled in Brooke 
county, W. Va., on a farm owned by his father, 
and in 1891 came to the old home place where he 
was born, and is now residing. Mr. Colwell follows 
general farming, and is a leading agriculturist of 
Hanover township. In politics he votes the Re- 
publican ticket, but devotes his principal attention 
to private business. Mrs. Colwell is a member of 
the Methodist Protestant Church of Eldersville, 
Penn. They have one daughter, Nancie Evelyn, 
who was born November 13, 1879. 



E. 



LMOR H. GRIFFITH is a member of one 
of the oldest leading families of Washington 
county, and is himself a prominent, progress- 
ive citizen of East Bethlehem township. 
Some time between the years 1682 and 1690, 
over a couple of centuries ago, there left their na- 
tive Welsh home and well-to-do parents, five 
brothers named Griffith, who, having set sail for 
America, lauded, after a tedious and stormy pas- 
sage across the Atlantic, at New York. Here they 
remained together for a short time, and then sep- 
arated, drifting in various directions, William, one 
of the live, coming westward and making a perma- 
nent settlement in what was then Newcastle county, 
Md. , at that time the home of the " Pennamites." 
Here he passed the rest of his life, dying at the 
advanced age of one hundred and five years. 

William Griffith, son of this avant-courier of the 
family under consideration, was born in Newcastle 
county, Md., in 1714, and in 1735 he moved 
to Beaver Creek, York Co., Penn., where the re- 
mainder of his days was passed. He married 
Esther Hussey, daughter of Richard and Marion 
Hussey, the former of whom died in 1785, the 



latter in 1807. William Griffith departed this life 
September 21, 1778, his wife having preceded him 
to the grave in the spring of 1762. He was a rigid 
and zealous follower of the faith of the Society of 
Friends, scrupulously honorable in himself, and 
severely exacting that the same quality should 
exist in all others. He and his wife reared a large 
family of children. 

Jacob Griffith, son of William and Esther 
(Hussey) Griffith, and grandfather of the subject 
of this sketch, was born February 27, 1757, in 
Pennsylvania. In 1796 he came to Washington 
county, Penn., when, as one of the pioneers, he en- 
dured all the hardships incident to the clearing 
and opening of a new country. He was somewhat 
small in stature, but nevertheless strong and ath- 
lit ic, quick of foot, and even when an old man he 
could walk with greater rapidity and apparently 
less exertion than when he was many years younger. 
When he came here he was in very moderate cir- 
cumstances, but was able to buy a small farm in 
what is now West Pike Run township. On April 
16, 1778, he married Lydia Hussey, who bore him 
children as follows: David, Isaac, Israel, Jason, 
Esther and Amos, all long since deceased. The 
father of this family died August 2, 1841, on the 
home farm in West Pike Run township. Like his 
father, he was in religious faith a Quaker. His 
wife met with an accident four years prior to her 
death which crippled her for the rest of her days. 
In fact, she never left her bed until death relieved 
her of her sufferings September 21, 1843. Of 
their children, Israel, father of Elinor H, was born 
December 28, 17S4, in York county, Penn., coming 
to this county in 1796, where he received a good 
education at the subscription schools, which he 
supplemented with close study and a considerable 
amount of reading at home. In early life he was 
trained to the arduous duties of farm life, and 
when old learned the trade of a cooper, and later 
that of miller. For several years he owned and 
conducted the West Pike Run saw and flouring 
mills, and during the winters of his earlier life 
taught the district school, which was held in an 
old log cabin, furnished with the most primitive 
seats, desks, etc. On November 27, 1826, Mr. 
Griffith married Letitia Shaw, who was born De- 
cember 14, 1784, a daughter of Samuel Shaw, an 
early settler of eastern Pennsylvania, and the fol- 
lowing named children were born to them: Eliza, 
born September 30, 1807, now living in Marshall 
county, Iowa, the wife of Milton Marsh; Joel, born 
October 13, 1809, who, a miller by trade, con- 
ducted his father's mill (he was the father of a 
large family, who are now residents of Alliance, 
Ohio); Eli R., born June 14, 1811, also deceased; 
Hannah, born January 25, 1818, married John 
Marsh, and now lives in Marshall county, Iowa; 
Israel, born May 29, 1820, also a resident of that 



410 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



county, and Elinor H. , the subject of these lines. 
The mother passed away August 30, 1849. Polit- 
ically, Israel Griffith was originally a A\ big, and 
afterward, on the formation of the party, a Repub- 
lican. In religion he followed in the footsteps of 
his forefathers, and he was a man remarkable for 
his extremely temperate habits, sturdy manhood 
and sterling integrity, commanding the esteem and 
respect of all with whom he came in contact. 
He died in ISC, 2. 

Elmor H. Griffith was born December 23, 1827, 
on the old homestead farm in West Pike Run town- 
ship, where he was reared, and where he has passed 
his entire life with the exception of the summer of 
L844, which he spent visiting the homes of his 
brothers and sisters in Iowa. He at one time en- 
tertained an idea of moving to and making a new 
settlement in the "Far West." but ill health dis- 
suaded him. In his boyhood he attended the com- 
mon schools of his district, and being an apt scholar 
succeeded in securing an education better than the 
average in these early days, so that he was well 
qualified to teach school, which he did with emi- 
nent success during some of the winter months in 
his earlier manhood, the remainder of the year be- 
ing occupied in the cultivation of the farm products, 
and in the management of his fathers mills. In 
1856 Mr. Griffith married Cynthia, daughter of 
Thomas Heald, of Columbiana county, Ohio: by 
which union there were no children. Mrs. Grif- 
fith departed this life May 25, 1883, and our sub- 
ject married, in 1885, Miss Emma McConnell, who 
was born March 22, 1846, a daughter of Austin 
and Edith McConnell, the result of this union 
being three children, as follows: Austin Oliver, 
born April 29, 1886, died April 24, 1891; Edith, 
born January 2, 1888, and Carrie Augusta, born 
May 20, 1891. Mr. Griffith is a "dyed-in-the- 
wool" Republican, and at this writing is filling 
the office of justice of the peace. In 1865 he em- 
barked in general mercantile business at Centre- 
ville, which he is still conducting, at the same 
time devoting some attention to the repairing of 
clocks, watches and jewelry, a varied stock of 
which he always carries. He is a liberal supporter 
of the Methodist Church which he attends, while 
his wife, a devout Christian lady, is a faithful mem- 
ber of the Society of Friends. 



DAVID WAUGH is a native of County Down, 
\ Ireland, having been born there May 24, 
; 182s. He is a son of James, Waugh, who 
was also born in County Down, Ireland, 
about 1778, and grew to manhood on the home 
farm. On February 18, 1798, he was united in 
marriage with Miss Mary Cummings, a native of 
the same county, and then settled upon a farm of 
his own, where the following children were born 



and reared: Elizabeth, Jane, Mary (living in San 
Francisco), Margaret (deceased), Susanna (living 
in Ireland), James (also living in Ireland I, John 
(deceased in Ireland), Isabella (living in Australia), 
David (subject of this sketch), Joseph and Alex- 
ander. The parents of these children passed their 
entire lives in the Emerald Isle, toiling for the 
welfare of their children, and were long since laid 
to rest. 

David Waugh assisted his father with the duties 
of the farm until he attained the age of twenty 
years, when he came to America, landing in New 
York with 25 cents, which he spent the next 
day to get a tooth extracted. He located in Mont- 
gomery, a town situated about ten miles from 
Philadelphia; Penn., which home was but a few 
rods from the present residence of John Wana- 
maker. Five years later he came to Pittsburgh, 
Penn., where he lived eleven years, and finally 
made a permanent home in Washington county. 
Penn. While living in Montgomery he was united 
in marriage with Miss Catherine Dougan,dau^hter 
of William Dougan (a native of County Tipperary, 
Ireland, where Catherine was born), and they have 
had four children, of whom the following is a brief 
record: James resides in Allegheny City. Penn., 
and is a veterinary surgeon; William is living in 
Texas, and is a veterinary surgeon of the Third 
United States Cavalry; Maggie J. is married, and 
living in Taylorstown, Buffalo township, this 
county; David remains at home, and assists his 
father on the farm. Since the day Mr. Wangh 
landed in New York, and began work for a farmer 
near Montgomery, he says he has found no time 
for one idle day. By perseverance and the prac- 
tice of strict economy, he now owns 156 acres of 
land, and has given his children a good start in 
life. He is a Republican. 



THE WEIR FAMILY of Pigeon Creek. In 
July. 1770. there arrived in Philadelphia, 
Penn., a company of emigrants from County 
Antrim, Ireland, among whom were Robert 
Robinson (born 1739, died June 23, 1 s:'>( i, 
aged ninety-seven years), his wife, Rachel Weir 
(born 173s. died October 21. 1823, aged eighty- 
five years) and Samuel Weir (brother of Rachel) 
and his wife, Lavina Robinson, sister of Robert 
Robinson. These families remained near each 
other, tarrying in Lancaster and Dauphin coun- 
ties, finally proceeding to Big Sewieklev, West- 
moreland county, where they separated about the 
year 1777, Robert Robinson settling four miles 
north of Saltsburgh, Indiana county, and Samuel 
Weir coming to the vicinity of Zollarsville, Wash- 
ington county. Here he tarried for a while, but 
finally settled on Pigeon creek near the present 
town of Vanceville, where he died iu 1821. His 






WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



n 



419 



wife, Lavina (Robinson), died about 1816. They 
are buried in Pigeon Creek churchyard. Their 
children were (I) Thomas, (II) Jane, (III) James. 
(IV) William, (V) Elizabeth, (VI) Adam, (VII) 
Lavina and (VIII) Samuel. 

(I). Thomas Weir married Nancy Whitehall, and 
died in December, 1848, in his eighty-third year; 
Nancy, his wife, died August 31, 1822, aged tifty- 
four. Their children were Samuel, died August 
1, 1855, aged fifty-seven; Margaret, died August 
28, 1N53, aged forty-nine; Lavina, died April 20, 
i860, aged fifty-five; Jane and Eleanor (twins), 
the former of whom died February 23, 1 s ^ t, aged 
seventy-eight, the latter dying March 16. 1S85, aged 
seventy-nine; Nancy, died June 12, 1887, aged 
seventy-three; Robert, born May 7, 1808, married 
Sarah L. Donley, who was born Decerning 25, L808, 
and died without issue March I. 1878, Robert 
dying April 19, 1886; Eleanor married her cousin, 
Col. Samuel Weir, son of (III) James; Nancy mar- 
ried Robert Erwin, who was born October 4, 1814, 
and died May 14, 1874, leaving issue — James, who 
died September 22, 1883; Thomas: Margaret; La- 
vina; Nancy; Susan and William. Of these. Mar- 
garet married Joseph Smith, and had children as 
follows: Iva Sella, Lola Siretta, Robert Erwin, 
Margaret Cook, Lavina Elizabeth and Edna Myrtle. 
Lavina married Robert Morrow (now deceased), 
and had issue — Nannie Ellnora and Thomas Weir; 
Nancy married William Cook, and have issue — 
Margaret. Reed and Nannie Maude; William mar- 
ried Bell Mcllvaine, and had a son James (William 
die.l May 10, 1886). 

(II). Jane Weir married James Robinson, and 
had issue — John, who died August 28, 1864; Eliza- 
beth W., who died in November, 1868; Samuel W. 
and Margaret. Their father died July 13, 1856, 
their mother November 3, 1856. This family 
lived near Donegal, Westmoreland Co., Peuu. 

(III). James Weir first, married Mary Lawrence, 
who died September 2, 1S08, aged fifty-six, leaving 
issue — Col. (1) Samuel and (2) Joseph; the second 
marriage of James was to Sarah Jenkins, daughter 
of Eliezer Jenkins, Esq., she died March 15, 1829, 
aged fifty-five, and their issue — (3)« Thomas, (4) 
Mary, (5) Rebecca, (6) Lavina. Their father died 
December 5, 1827; aged fifty-seven vears. Col. 
(1) Samuel, born April 3, 1800, died June 5, 1892; 
married his cousin, Eleanor Weir, daughter of (1) 
Thomas, and had issue — (1) James, (2) Nancy 
(died September 6, 1863, aged thirty-three), (3) 
Mary, (4) Thomas, (5) Sarah, (6) Eleanor, (7) 
Joseph, (8) Samuel, (9) Susan M. (died January 
6, 1870, aged twenty-two), (10) Martha and (11) 
Robert. (4) Thomas, born January 19, 1838, was 
married on January 1, 1860, to Lavina Hasting, 
who was born January 16, 1833, and died June 28, 
1886, leaving issue— (1) William E.. born May 29, 
1862, and (2) S. W. Grant, born March 13, 1865. 



Of these, (1) William E. married on November 16, 
1882, Emma F. Jennings, born October 6, L86I 
(they have issue — Nora M. , born March 3, 1885; 
Mary, born July 11, 1S^7: John Blaine, born No- 
vember 3, 1889"; Minnie, born October 27, 1891). 
(2) S. W. Grant married January 6, 1887, Mar- 
garet McCallister (issue one daughter, Maude 
(living), and a -on Frank (deceased). (8) Samuel, 
born May 27, 1S42, married, September 27, 1866, 
Lottie Evans, born September 1, 1843 (they have 
issue — Emma E., born September 24, 1868); 
Joseph M., born September 28, 1872; Emma E., 
married John H. Huffman, September 24, 1890 
(issue — Homer Russell, born December 28, 1891). 
(1 1) Robert married Miss Kale (issue — Ellsworth 
and Pe,arl). 

(2) Joseph Weir, son of (III) James, married 
Mary Smith, who died August 31. 1886, aged 
eighty-seven; issue— George, died April 1. 1830, 
aged sixteen months; Mary, Margaret, and James. 
Margaret married, and lives in Muskingum county, 
Ohio, and James was Presiding Elder in the Meth- 
odist ministry in the London (Ohio) Circuit in 
1891. (2) Joseph, St., emigrated from Washing- 
tun county, Peun., to Muskingum county, Ohio, in 
1837, and now lives in Perryton, Licking Co., 
same State. 

(3) Thomas, son of (III) James, was born 
March 21. L811, married February 2, 1832, Mary 
Denniston, born August 6, 1808; Thomas emi- 
grated to Carroll county, Ohio, in 1834, where he 
died March 1, 1863; Mary (Denniston) died Octo- 
ber 28, 1889. They are buried at Mechanicstown, 
Carroll county, where he was a member of Session 
in the Presbyterian Church of Corinth. He was 
prominent in the civil affairs of that county in his 
day. He had children as follows: (1) James R., 
born February 15, 1833; (2) Andrew D., born 
January 21, 1835; (3) Sarah Ann, born November 
30, 1836; (4) Elizabeth, born March 8, 1839; (5) 
Nancy Jane, born September 12, 1841, died Janu- 
ary 6, 1843; (6) Samuel, born October 13, 1843; 
(7) Rebecca Jane, born March 31, 1846; (8) Will- 
iam Thomas, born July 1, 1848; (9) Robert 
Brough, born August 19, 1851. Of these, (1) 
James R. married Rebecca Cameron (now dead), 
and had issue — Addison, Durell and Charles. Of 
these, Addison married Catharine Wilcoxon ; they 
have issue — Rebecca Jane; Durell, married to 
Mary S. Stevens (they have a daughter, Grace); 
Charles, married to Jennie Moore (they have issue 
—Ellis McCoy and Lila Belle); (1) James R. 
Weir's second wife was Mrs. E. L. Huston. (2) 
Andrew D., son of Thomas and Mary (Denniston) 
Weir, married Emily Figley; they have issue — 
Thomas Corwin, William Figley and Mary Luella, 
of whom, Thomas Corwin married Frances E. Rob- 
inson, May 10, 1883; they have issue — William 
Clyde, born March 6, 1885; William Figley, mar- 



420 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



ried Mattie J. Barr, October 29, 1889 (they have 
issue — John S. Barr); William Figley is a Pres- 
byterian minister in Toronto, Ohio; Mary Luella 
married James Smith (they have issue — Chal- 
mer, Roy, Edna, Corwin), (3) Sarah Ann, daugh- 
ter of Thomas and Mary Weir, married Samuel 
Stenger (they have issue — William Thomas, Rob- 
ert Grant, Eddie Elmer, George Weir, Charles 
Otis, Mary Venetta, Maggie Maud); of these, 
Robert Grant married Ida Johnston (they have is- 
sue — Alta Bell); Mary Venetta married Grant Al- 
lison (they have issue — Leila Maud, Lowell Mont, 
and Mary). (1) Elizabeth, daughter of Thomas 

and Mary Weir, married Groxon, and lives 

in Nebraska. (6) Samuel, son of Thomas and 
Mary Weir, married Mary Jane De Ford (Issue- 
Oliver C, Edwin V., John B. and Thomas D.). (7) 
Rebecca Jane, daughter of Thomas and Mary Weir, 
married Alex Boyd, and died July 30, 1874 (Issue 
— Mary A.). (8) William Thomas,'son of Thomas 
and Mary Weir, married, February 2, 1871, Sarah 
E. Marshall, born October 24, IMS (Issue — Calvin 
R.. born March 8, 1N74; Albert M., born April 9, 
1876; WillardOrvin, born December 27, 1879; Elsie 
M. , born April H, 1882). (9) Robert Brough, son of 
Thomas and Mary Weir, married Eljaretta Fran- 
ces McLain. April 11, 1878. 

it) Mary Weir, daughter of (III) James, mar- 
ried Lewis Roberts, who removed to Carrolton, 
Ohio, where he died (Issue — Susan, Rebecca, Will- 
iam, who died in the army, and Thomas W.); of 
whom, Susan married John G. Wetzall (has issue 
— Lula May, Louis Ira and Loreuzo Thomas); Re- 
becca married David Schultz (Issue — Charles and 
George). 

(5) Rebecca, daughter of (III) James, was 
born April 27. 1813, married April 11, 1833, 
James W. Robinson, of Saltsburgh, Penn. , a 
grandson of Robert Robinson, Sr. ; James W. 
died February 4, 1S65. Issue — (1) Sarah Maria, 
born October 30, 1834, died September 17, 1851. 
(2) Rebecca Jane, born September 25, 1830, 
married September 21, 1871, Rev. W. W. Wood- 
end (a Presbyterian minister), born June 25, 
1816; issue — J. W. Robert, born June 5, 1872; 
Thomas Edwin, born August 10, 1876; Ella Maud, 
born February 16, 1883. (3) Martha Eliza, born 
.lime 20, 1839, married January 1, 1861, Rev. 
Solomon Jesse Berlin (a Lutheran minister), 
born May 29, 1831, died January 21, 1870; 
Martha E. died January 21. L870, having had 
issue — Ella Lula, born December 16, 1861; Eliza 
Rebecca, born March 10, 1S63; Elsie Mary, born 
November 24, 1864. (4) William Thomas, born 
April 27, 1841, died January 14. 1865. (5) Ella 
Mary, born September 13, 1849, died October 
29, 1871. (6) Adam James Weir, born August 
14. 1856, married February 16, 1882, Eva Lizzie 
Guthrie, born January 14, 1859 (they have 



a daughter, Ella Maud, who was born February 16, 
1883). 

(6) Lavina, daughter of (III) James, in 1835 
married Levi Marshall, of Carroll county, Ohio, 
where she died April 10, 1873, aged fifty-seveu. 
Issue — (1) Thomas Weir, (2) Mary, (3) Horace, 
(4) James Robinson, (5) Samuel Weir, (6) Josiah 
and (7) Jason. Of these, (2) Mary married Ben 
jamin Hole, and had issue — Rosella (married 
Mr. Cunningham), Lavina, LinmBus (married 
Miss Roach) and Lemuel Garfield. (7) Jason, 
married to Maggie Dillon (they have a son, Edwin ). 

(IV). William Weir, son of Samuel, Sr., mar 
ried Jane Lawrence; William died July 19, 1840, 
aged sixty-nine; Jane died February 11, 1847, 
aged seventy. Issue — Samuel L. , born Septem- 
ber 10, 1809, and Sarah M., born January 22, 
1813, who died October 31, 1867, aged fifty -four. 
Samuel L. was married, June 13, 1839, to Jane 
McCorkle, who was born December 22, 1811, who 
died January 24, 1849, aged thirty-eight; Samuel 
L. died February 26, 1875, leaving issue — (1) 
Mary Jane, (2) William, (3) Elizabeth E. ; of these, 
(1) Mary Jane, born May 2, 1840, married John 
M. Berry, December 22, 1870 (they have living 
issue — Minnie Jane, born June 13, 1M75; John 
Lawrence Weir, born April 7, 1878; William 
Eagleton, born August 15, 1881). 

Samuel L., only son of William, was born, 
lived, and died on the homestead of his father on 
Chartiers creek, in Somerset township. His 
mother, for many years a helpless invalid, was a 
sister of Joseph Lawrence, of honored memory in 
this county. He (S. L.), intellectually strong, 
took an active interest in every object that would 
elevate and promote the welfare of the com- 
munity in which he lived; especially so was he in 
everything that would tend to promote the glory 
of God, and the welfare of the Church of which he* 
was for many years an active member of Session. 
the U. P. congregation of Pigeon Creek; in his 
liberality, spending of time and labor unrequited. 
He was an efficient leader in the erection of the 
elegant church building in which that congrega- 
tion now worships. Dying before he had attained 
his three score years, his mantle has fallen on his 
only son William, who is worthily following his 
father's footsteps. 

('_!) William Weir, a prosperous farmer and 
stock raiser of Somerset township, of which 
he is a native, was born December 12, 1842. 
He received a liberal education at the district 
schools of the neighborhood of his place of 
birth, and was reared to agricultural pursuits. 
On December 21, 1870, he married Lizzie 
M. Reynolds, a native of North Strabane township, 
this county, born December 12, 1842, by which 
union there are three children, viz. : Samuel R., 
born October 5, 1871; Sarah Lizzie Huston, born 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



421 



July 4, 1873, and J. Howard, born August 27, 
1880. (3) Elizabeth, born August 27, 1849, mar- 
ried Seth H. Reynolds, June 5, 1879. (They have 
issue — Mary Jeanette, who was born September 9, 
1882). 

(V). Elizabeth Weir, daughter of Samuel, Sr., 
married Matthew Morrow, of Canton towuship; 
Matthew died September 28, 1842; Elizabeth died 
September 9, 1842. Issue — (1) Mary, born October 
31, 1786; (2) Samuel, born March 4, 1788; (3) 
Thomas, born March 3, 1790; (4) Lavina, born 
January 10, 1792; (5) Catharine, born November 
16, 1793; (6) John, born March 4, 1796, died Oc- 
tober 1, IS 12; (7) James, born February 7, 1799, 
died September 16, 1818; (8) Jane, born March 5, 

1801, died August 24, 1853; (9) Anna, born 
December 25, 1802, died December 1, 1832; (10) 
Elizabeth, born May 12, 1805, died September 2, 
1808; (11) William, born May 23, 1807, died 
August 10, 1892; (12) David, born March 31, 1809, 
died in 1891; (13) Adam, born May 7, 1811, mar- 
ried June 1, 1843, Jane Clark, and died November 
2, 1861. Of these, (1) Mary married William Kyle; 
(4) Lavina married Robert Taggart; (5) Catharine 
married Samuel Taggart; (8) Jane married Robert 
Gailey; (9) Anna died unmarried; (11) William 
married Miss McClay; (12) David first married 
Miss Johnston, and his second wife was Miss Bell 
Work. The parents and Mary, Samuel, Thomas, 
Lavina, John, William, David and Adam are buried 
at Upper Buffalo, this county; Catharine, at Piney 
Fork, Harrison Co., Ohio; James and Anna, at 
Dalton, and Elizabeth, at Orville, Wayne Co., 
Ohio; Jane, at Mingo, this county. 

(VI). Adam Weir, son of Samuel, Sr. , was 
born in Lancaster county, Penn., and married 
Mary Hall (daughter of Thomas Hall, Sr., who died 
in 1814) who died March 22, 1813, aged thirty- 
two; Adam died February 27, IS 17, aged seventy- 
three. Issue — (1) Thomas, (2) Lavina and (3) 
Samuel; of these, (1) Thomas, born September 2, 

1802, married, March 1, 1832, Margaret M. Scott, 
who was born February 9, 1807; Thomas died 
April 26, 1847, in his forty-fifth year (was of an 
active temperament, which called him into trusted 
service, in the Old Seceder (now U. P.) congrega- 
tion of Pigeon Creek, of which he was a member. 
He also did much service with fidelity in the civic 
trusts of guardian, executor and administrator. 
Was ever an active friend of the common-school 
system, created in 1834, serving frequently as a 
director in the township of Somerset, in which he 
lived. He mingled in military life too, was 
admitted to be, in his day, the best commander in the 
battalion which usually met for drill in Bentley- 
ville. He was an ardent Whig, but never in polit- 
ical office. He died lamented by the community in 
which he lived). Margaret M, died March 10, 
1887. Issue— (1) Adam, (2) Josiah Scott, (3) 



Samuel Baird, (4) Hugh, (5) Mary Jane, and (6) 
Margaret Lavina; of these, 

(1) Adam Weir was born in Somerset township, 
Washington Co., Penn., January 13, 1833, and 
is a farmer, both intelligent and progressive. He 
is an elder in the TJ. P. Church of Pigeon Creek, 
besides which he has acceptably filled several civil 
positions of trust and honor. His relations embrace 
a wide range of upright and leading citizens. On 
May 14, 1856, he was married to Miss Catharine 
Wilson, who was born December 26, 1831, a 
daughter of James Wilson, and died February 26, 
1889. This marriage union was crowned with love 
and felicity, that ever mark the true and desirable 
home. (2) Josiah Scott, born April 10, 1836, mar- 
ried, November 29, 1N59, Sarah Ann Hicks, who 
was born in Clark county, Ky., November 30, 
1839 (live in Stanford, McLean Co., 111.). 

(3) Samuel Baird, born January 9, 1838, in 
Somerset township, where he now lives; married 
on December 2, 1863, Margery Winnett (daughter 
of Jonathan Winnett), who was born June 4, 1843, 
and died June 12, 1875, leaving issue — Hu»h Fin- 
ley, born October 21. 1864, married February 8, 
1893, to Miss Carrie Myers; Mary Lizzie, born 
July 20. 1866; Ada Margaret, born January 13, 
1873, and Winnett Wallace, born February 3, 
1875, all at home except Hugh who is traveling 
(S. Baird is a Republican, and has served as road 
commissioner; is a member of the U. P. Church of 
Pigeon Creek, of which he was a trustee when a 
young man, before he became a member). (4) 
Hugh, born June 3, 1840, enlisted at the close of 
junior year at Jefferson College, in the One Hun- 
dred and Fortieth P. V. I., was wounded at Gettys- 
burg, July 2, 1863, and died in rebel hospital, 
July 5, same year. (5) Mary Jane, born June 14, 
1842. (6) Margaret Lavina, born April 20, 1847, 
married October 9, 1878, Samuel P. Fergus, who 
was born August 17, 1843. Issue— Thomas Harold 
Weir, born August 11, 1879; Hugh Earnest, born 
January 16, 1881; John Addison, born July 3, 
lss:',, died May 14, 188."); David S. Littell, born 
March 5, 1885, died December 29, 1885, and Mar- 
garet Josephine, born June 20, 1887. 

(6) Lavina Weir, daughter of (VI) Adam, born 
December 14, 1805, married on May 16, 1827, to 
David McDonough, who was born November 14, 
1799; David died February 20, lS f o9; Lavina died 
March 2, 1876. Issue— (1) Joseph, (2) Thomas, (3) 
Adam and (4) Henry H. ; of these, (1) Joseph, born 
July 4, 1828, married Elizabeth Pangburn, March 
27, 1851, who died December 26, 1874, having 
had issue Lavina, born February 17, 1853, married 
Sample Closser; Mary Jane, born October 11. 
1856, died January 12, 1866; John D., born Ooto- 
ber 26, 1860; Samuel E., born April 15, 1864; 
Sue Envena, born January 28, 1870. (Joseph's 
second marriage was to Mrs. Martha Pangburn 



422 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



December 19, 1878). (2) Thomas, bom October 
27, 1830, first married December 31, 1857, Jane 
McGregor, who was boru March 23, 1830, who 
died December 30, 1872 (Issue: Willie H. , who 
died February 3, 1862, aged three years, an infant, 
died April 4, 1867); his second marriage was 
August 25, 1874, to Miss Cassandria Burgan, of 
Terre Haute, Ind. ; they have a daughter, Ger- 
trude, boru January 16, 1879. (3) Adam, born 
October 6, 1833, died September 25, 1841; (4) Dr. 
Henry H., born October 30, 1836, first married, 
October 22, 1861, Elizabeth Winnett, who died 
March 6, 1879 (on October 24, 1882, Dr. H. H. 
married Margaret L. Lindley; issue — AnnaEstella, 
born August 31, 1883, and Charles Lawrence, born 
May 23, 1885). 

(3) Samuel Weir, son of (VI) Adam, was born 
September 80, 1810. Samuel lived unmarried on 
the homestead of his father in West Bethlehem 
township, where he died April 6, 1890, in his 
eightieth year. This farm, at his death, had been 
in the Weir family name for nearly 100 years. Of 
a quiet, steady. eveD temperament, it was re- 
marked of him that he was rarely if ever seen 
angry. By constant industry, frugal economy, and 
good management, he was possessed of a large per- 
sonal property and valuable real estate at his 
decease. Like his brother, Thomas, he was ever 
reliable and trustworthy. For the last fifty years 
or more of his life he was never free from civic 
trusts of some kind or other, in Church or State. 
In many such trusts, large, financially, he was 
seemingly weighed in the balance, but never found 
wanting. Born a Whig, he consistently voted with 
that party until, with the change of name in 1860, 
he was with the Republicans, but he was never a 
political aspirant for office. He united as a mem- 
ber, in his mature years, with the U. P. Congre- 
gation of Pigeon Creek, where from a child he had 
been a regular and constant attendant upon Divine 
worship, and a liberal supporter thereof. 

(VII). Lavina, daughter of Samuel, Sr. , married 
James Erwin, who was born January 6, 1 785, died 
May 13, 1851, aged sixty-six years; Lavina, died 
September 24, 1854, aged sixty-eight, without 
issue. 

(VIII). Samuel Weir, son of Samuel, Sr., died 
unmarried February 28, 1S45, aged sixty-nine 
years; lived and» died on his father's farm, the 
original Weir homestead, in West Bethlehem town- 
ship, now owned by Robert Heney. 

The original parents — Samuel and his wife — and 
their children — Thomas and wife, James and 
wives, Adam and wife, William and wife, are 
buried in the old churchyard of Pigeon Creek 
Presbyterian, while Lavina Erwin and husband 
and her brother, Samuel, lie in Pigeon Creek 
U. P. churchyard. Elizabeth Morrow and hus- 
band lie in Upper Buffalo cemetery. Jane Robin- 



son and husband lie in or near Donegal, West- 
moreland Co., Penn. — Themselves all, and their 
descendants with very few exceptions, being 
members and adherents to the Presbyterian Church, 
in some one of its numerous branches. [March 1 , 
l.s«i:s. 



THE HUGH SCOTT FAMILY and connec- 
tions, of Nottingham township. Tradition 
says Hugh Scott, Sr. , came to Pennsylvania 
from the North of Ireland, and settled 
within the bounds of Chester county about 
the year 11570. The original county of Chester 
has been divided and sub divided many times 
since. Hence we see, in local histories of the Scott 
family, the names of Lancaster, York, and Adams 
counties mentioned, area embraced in original 
Chester, and also Cecil county, Md. , contiguous 
territory. 

(1) Hugh Scott. had a son (2) Abraham (born in 
Chester county in 1677), who had children: Anne, 
born October, 1699; Samuel, boru about 1705; Re- 
becca, born December 17, 1707; Alexander, born 
in 1716 or 1717; Grace; (3) Hugh, born in 1726; 
(4) Josiah, born in 1735. These two last were 
among Washington county's early immigrants. 

(2) Anne married Arthur Patterson about 1720; 
Arthur died in 1763, aged sixty-three; his wife died 
in 1792, aged ninety-two years, three months. Their 
children were William; Rebecca; Samuel, born 
1727, died November 15, 1820, aged ninety-three; 
Arthur; Ellen; James, born February 7, 1731, died 
May 19, 17SU, aged fifty-eight years, three months; 
Catherine; Elizabeth; Jane, born 1739, died May 
2, 1800. 

(2) Rebecca became the second wife of James 
Agnew, in 1737. They had children: Samuel, 
born Janury 29, 1738, married Elizabeth Johnston 
(they had six children); Martha, born September 
9, 1740, married Samuel Patterson (four children); 
James, born May 1, 1742, married Mary Ramsey 
(eight children); David, born Jul)' 17, 1743, mar- 
ried Mary Erwin (twelve children); Margaret, born 
August 27, 1745, married James Patterson (nine 
children); Rebecca, born May 3, 1747, married 
John McLanahan (two children); Sarah, born May 
15, 1749, married Archibald Douglass (two chil- 
dren); Abraham, born December 23, 1750, died 
March 11, 1753; Anne, born October 3, 1753, mar- 
ried Rev. John Smith (ten children); Rev. John 
Smith and family were at one time residents of 
Washington county. Ephraim Johnston Agnew, 
of Chartiers township, is a grandson of Samuel 
and Elizabeth Johnston. Dr. Agnew, of Philadel- 
phia (President Garfield's physician), was a de- 
scendant of James Agnew, Sr. Smith Agnew, Esi | , 
of New Castle, Penn., who died in September, 
1881, aged ninety years, was a son of David and 




1 

1 



%-? fr*^ 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



425 



Mary Erwin. (3) Hugh Scott, who lived on Millers- 
town road, five milps from Gettysburg, Penn., was 
a left-handed blacksmith, and emigrated (as sup- 
posed) to Washington county in 1773 or '74. He 
was certainly here when Dr. McMillan on the third 
Sabbath of November, 1776, ordained five elders 
in Pigeon Creek congregation, of whom Hugh 
Scott was one . His name is also found in the first 
grand jury panel of October 2, 1781; also one of the 
four trustees who purchased ground from David 
Hoge on the 18th of October, 1781, for public 
buildings for the county. He was commissioned 
justice of the peace November 8, 1788. He settled 
on a tract of land in Nottingham township (where 
his great-grandsons, James Kerr Scott and Hugh 
C. Scott, yet live), for which he received a patent 
dated January 23, 1799, in pursuance of a warrant 
dated September 22, 1788. He died October 1 1 , 
1819, aged ninety-three. His wife, Jennett (Ag- 
new) died October 9, 1814, aged seventy-seven. 
Their graves are still legibly marked in Pigeon 
Creek graveyard. His sons Abraham and James 
are said to have returned to Adams county when 
young men, where they married, lived and died. 

(3) Hugh Scott, son of Abraham, born in 1720, 
married in 1754 to Jennett Agnew, born August 
23, 1735, a daughter of his brother-in-law James 
Agnew, Sr. , by a first marriige. Their children 
were (3) Rebecca, (3) Abraham, (3) James, (3) 
Hugh, (3) John, (3) Elizabeth, (3) Sarah, (3) 
Margaret and (3) Josiah. 

(3) Rebecca, born March 20, 1756, was married 
in 1776, to George Van Eman. Their children 
were (1) Nicholas, born April 7, 1782, married 
Anne Riddle, and had issue: Andrew, James, 
George, Samuel, Scott, Oliver, John Cyrus, Martha, 
Rebecca, Anne, and one other daughter. He was 
an elder in the church. Lived in Girard, Trum- 
bull Co., Ohio, dying in 1832. (2) Scott and (3) 
Jane were twins, born May 24, 1783. Scott mar- 
ried Margaret Dawson. Two sons, George and 
Dawson, lived in Stark county, Ohio; (3) Jane 
married John Dawson, and lived in Wayne county, 
Ohio; (4) Andrew, born October 22, 1784, was twice 
married, first to Elizabeth Haines; issue: Joseph 
Haines, Eliza, Ann, Mary and Rebecca; Andrew's 
second marriage was with Jane Van Eman; issue: 
John and James (both died in youth); Rev. Craig 
R. married to Miss McLenathan, lives in Burnet 
county, Texas; Harriet H, married William 
Walker, died in 1888, lived in Monroe county, Mo.; 
Andrew died in Canonsburg, Penn. ; his wife Jane 
died at her daughter's home in Missouri. 

(5) Rev. George, born April 23, 1786, was 
twice married, first time to Miss Cooper; issue: 
John, Cooper, Sarah (who married Mr. Cusic), 
Anne (who married Mr. Hall), another daughter (a 
widow) now living in Findlay, Ohio; George's 
second marriage was to Miss Flannegan; no issue. 



George was a minister in the Presbyterian Church. 
In the early years of his ministry he organized the 
congregation of Newark, Ohio. He died in Find- 
lay, Ohio, March 21, 1877, aged ninety-one. 

(6) Rebecca, born December 7, 1787, died Jan- 
uary 4, 1822, married Hon. Joseph Lawrence; 
issue: Joseph, Hon. George V., Sarah and Samuel. 
Joseph and his wife, Eliza (Horner), died in Feb- 
ruary, 1842, leaving children: Maria, Elizabeth, 
Rebecca and William. Hon. George V.'s first 
marriage was to Miss Welch, in 1839; she died in 
1854; two children, Mary V. and Joseph; George 
V.'s second marriage was to Miss Reed, in 1857; 
three children, of whom two, George and Carrie 
Bell, attained mature age; George is since deceased. 
Hon. George V. was elected representative from 
Washington county in 1843, 1846, 1858, 1859 and 
1892; State Senator in 1848, 1860, 1874, 1876 and 
1878; Speaker of the Senate in spring of 1863; 
and to Congress in 1864 and 1866; delegate-at 
large to Constitutional Convention, 1872. Sarah 
married Ard Moore, now dead. Their children 
were Mary, Joseph, Elizabeth, Robert and Fannie. 
The mother now lives with her sons in Carthage, 
Mo. Joseph Lawrence, Sr. , was representative in 
1818, '19, '20, '21, '22, '23, again in 1834, '35, 
State Treasurer 1 835, member of Congress in 1824 
and '26, and in 1840. Died April 17, 1842. Bur- 
ied in Congressional Cemetery. Washington, D. C. 

(7) Elizabeth, born May 7, 17S9, married David 
Riddle; issue: Rebecca, John, and others. Lived 
in Trumbull county, Ohio. 

(8) Joseph, born December 12, 1790, married 
Isabella Logan; issue: James (who died in youth), 
Rebecca, Samuel, Rev. George, Joseph, Mary, 
Logan, Cyrus (who died in youth), Margaret, 
Sarah. Of these (1) Rebecca married John Johns- 
ton (both dead); issue: Richard Van Eman, Brad- 
foul and John. (2) Samuel died September, 1891, 
was married to Miss Martha McConnell; issue: two 
sons — James J., and Joseph S. (dead) — and two 
daughters — Bell M. and Sadie E. (3) Rev. George 
married Rachel Bower, second marriage to Eliza- 
beth Pogue. (4) Joseph's first marriage was with 
Miss Sarah Lea, and his second marriage was with 
Mary Anne Donaldson; now lives in Delano, Minn.; 
(5) Mary married Samuel Alexander (now dead); 
issue: one daughter, who died in adult age. (6) 
Logan married Jane Vance (now dead); issue: 
Charles, Fannie, Isabella, Joseph and James. (7) 
Margaret (now dead) married Israel Bebout. (8) 
Sarah married Samuel Bebout, East End, Pitts- 
burgh. Joseph, Sr., died September 22, 1873; his 
wife, Isabella, died May 21, 1870; they are buried 
in Centre Presbyterian churchyard; he was a mem 
ber of Session in that congregation for many years. 

(9) Garrett, bom October 3, 1792, was married 
first to Rachel Logan; issue: James, Rebecca, 
Amelia, Rachel, Bell, Lee, Scott and Margaret; 



426 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



second marriage to Miss Sprowl; was an elder in 
Kaccoon Presbyterian Church; died at Candor, 
Washington Co., Penn. 

(10) William, born June 15, 1794, married 
Mary Bracken; issue: Rev. Thomas B., Mary Jane, 
and Sarah Anne (twins), Hannah, William, and 
Rebecca; he died in Cecil township, four miles from 
Canonsburg in his thirty-fifth year. 

(11) Sarah, born December 15, 1795, married 
Steven Wilkie; issue: Maria, Wilkie, and others. 
Maria married Rev. Jonathan Wilson, a missionary 
to Siam. Sarah, Sr. , lived and died in Sidney, 
Ohio. 

(12) Abraham, born August 12, 1797, was an 
elder at Canal Fulton, Stark Co., Ohio. 

(13) James and (14) Hannah were twins, born 
July 1, 1799. Hannah married a Mr. Fulton, and 
lived at Canal Fulton, Ohio. George Van Eman, 
Sr., and his wife, Rebecca Scott, lived and raised 
their family on a farm known as Clokey, six miles 
east of Washington, Penn. In their old age they 
removed to Canal Fulton, Stark Co., Ohio, to live 
with their children; they died and are buried in the 
old churchyard about one mile from that place. 

(3) Abraham Scott died in Adams county, 
Penn., March 1, 1S34, aged seventy-seven years. 
He first married Margaret McClain, who died Feb- 
ruary 2, 1789, aged twenty-six years; issue: (1) 
Hugh, (2) John, (3) Margaret, and (4) Jane. 
Second marriage to Jane Kerr, who died December 
6, 1813, aged forty-seven; issue: (5) George K., 
(6) William M., (7) Abraham, (8) Polly, (9) James; 
third marriage to Margaret MeMillen, who died 
October 25, '1S33, aged fifty; no issue. Of these 
(l)Hugh married Betsy Kerr, and died August 17, 
1849, aged sixty-five, leaving children: (1) Abraham, 
(2) John, (3) Margaret, (4) George, (5) William, 
and (6) Mary Ann. Of these Abraham married 
Mary Downs; issue: James Hervey, Elizabeth Mar- 
ion, Hugh Alfred, and William Elliott. (2) John 
married Martha McAllister (and died February 11, 
1882, aged seventy-one); issue: Hugh D. , John 
W., William, Mary, and Dr. Joseph Byron. (3) 
Margaret never married. (4) George died in 
youth. (5) William married Julia Anne Newman; 
a son, Newman. (6) Mary Anne married John 
Galbreath; issue: William and Laura. (2) John 
married Mary Trenkle, and had one son and nine 
daughters; soon after marriage he emigrated to 
N. Carolina where he died several years ago; 
his widow was still living December 13, 1SS2. (3) 
Margaret married Moses Gourley; issue: Isabella, 
Jane, Margaret, and Thomas. (4) Jane married 
Stuart Speer, and died in Ohio, February, 1866, 
aged seventy-eight ; Rev. J. S. Speer, <>f Canons- 
burg, Penn., is a grandson. (5) George K., of the 
second marriage, born in Adams county, emigrated 
to Washington, Penn., in 1824, where he engaged 
in teaching school for several years. Afterward 



embarked in mercantile business, in which he was 
eminently successful; in 1830 he married Mary 
Ann Holbert, by whom he had four children: 
Abram B. , Catherine H, John H. , and George 
K. ; the mother died in 1840, when the children 
were very young; he afterward married her sister 
Catherine (born in Maryland September 18, 1798) 
who proved to be a mother indeed to her sister's 
children, and on their part they ever affectionately 
venerated her as a mother; she died in Washing- 
ton, January 20, 1888, aged ninety. George K., 
Sr., died in 1867. Abram B. was twice married, 
first to Sarah Evans; issue: Mary A., William E., 
and Sarah. William E. married Susan Goughner; 
issue: Chester G. , Blanche, Mary Louisa. Abram's 
second marriage was to Rebecca Lacock; he lives 
in Fairfield, Iowa. Catherine H. first married S. 
S. Fowler; issue, five children: (two died in in- 
fancy) Kate, Georgiana and Gertrude; her second 
marriage was with W. B. Whittaker, of Fairfield, 
Iowa; Georgiana married James C. Hanyson, and 
had one daughter. John H. married Jane McCaskey, 
December 11, 1862, and died March 17, 1891; 
George K., Jr., married Grizella Beatty, November 
24, 1859; issue: Charles B., Samuel Preston, Katie 
F., George K, Mary, May, and William Taylor. 
Five of these died in early life. Katie F. married 
Frank G. Puliver, and lives in Mobeetie, Tex. 
William Taylor is still single. Rev. George K, 
Jr., died in Mobeetie, Tex., January 10, 1889. 
Was a Presbyterian clergyman, licensed in April, 
1858, ordained by Washington Presbytery in 1859, 
a home missionary in Texas. 

(6) William M. married Jane Kerr; issue: Dr. 
A. O, Margaret Rebecca, George W., Mary Jane; 
three died in infancy. Dr. A. O. married Jane 
Wilson; issue: David W., Netty R., Mary L. , Jane 
Sherman, Clara M. , Fannie and Genevie. Mar- 
garet Rebecca married John Cunningham, Esq.; 
issue: James, Jennie K. , Elizabeth S., Mary, Will- 
iam Scott, Maggie R., Fannie F. (William M. 
died August 15, L852, aged sixty; his wife died 
August 18, 1867, aged seventy-two). (8) Polly died 
unmarried August 28, 1875, aged eighty j-ears. 

(3) James married Rebecca Patterson in 1790, 
who was born September 25, 1768; he sold his farm 
some seven miles south of Gettysburgh, and built 
the hotel there known as the "McClelland House," 
where he died October 1, 1806, aged forty -six. 
Their children were Hugh, born July 17, 1791, 
died March 25. 1874; Margaret, born 1793, died 
February 10, 1868; Dr. James Patterson, born in 
1795; John, born 1798; William, born 1800, and 
Jane, born 1803. His widow afterward married 
Col. James Agnew, and died January 2S, 1827. 
Capt, James, son of Hugh, first married Lena 
Spangler, and had one son, James, who was living 
in or near New Orleans in 1877. Capt. James' 
second marriage was with Margaret Dickson. Hugh 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



427 



died previous to 1877, in Gettysburgh, Penn., at an 
advanced age. Dr. James Patterson died suddenly. 
Margaret died a few years ago unmarried. Jane 
married a Mr. Ashman, and lived in Ohio. Of 
William and John there is no information. 

(3) Hugh, born 1763, married Jane Latta, and 
emigrated with nine living children from Washing- 
ton county, Penn., in 1811, and settled four milts 
south of Newark, Licking Co., Ohio, where he died 
in April, 1849, aged eighty-seven; his wife, Jane 
(Latta), died in 1837, aged seventy. Their chil- 
dren were John Agnew, born 1790, died in Illinois, 
L876; Isabella, born 1792, died in Illinois, 1867; 
Sarah, born 1794, died in Illinois, 1867; Jane, born 
1796, died in Ohio, 1867; William, born 1798, died 
in Illinois, 1870; Hugh, born 1800, died in Illi- 
nois, 1863; Robert, born 1802, died in Newark, 
Ohio, 1879; James, born 18(14, living in Marysville, 
Ohio, in 1892; Abraham, born 1809, died in 1881. 

(3) John, born in Adams county in 1772, mar- 
ried in Gettysburgh, Penn., about 1796, to Martha 
Patterson, who was born in Lancaster county, De- 
cember 10, 1777. Their children were all born in 
Washington, Penn.: Margaret, born May 10, 1797, 
married Robert Officer, May 4, 1819, died Decem- 
ber 12, 1880, at Council Bluffs, Iowa, where the 
family had resided a number of years; Jane, born 
May 12, 1799, died unmarried near Washington, 
111., April 19, 1869; Rebecca, born July 9, 1803, 
died February 24, 1818, of smallpox, at Washing- 
ton, Penn. ; James Patterson, born November 6, 
1805, married Margaret Sample, of Washington, 
Penn., April 23, 1835 (Patterson died August 21, 
1866); his wife died April 11, 1884. They are 
buried in Washington, 111. Their children were 
Elias Cornelius, born June 30, 1836; Martha Jane, 
born September 6, 1838, married David E. See- 
don], December 22, 1887 (she died in Hubbell, Neb., 
April 6, 1890); John Workman, born September 
28, 1840, died June 30, 1867; Sarah Olivia, born 
Octobei r 28, 1842; Elizabeth Gertrude, born Sep- 
tember 29, 1844, married September 29. 1870, to 
Marshall W. Woodbury; issue: Cornelius Welling- 
ton, born April 1, 1870, died August 30, 1875; Na- 
than Patterson, born February 28, 1881, lives in 
Hubbell, Neb.; Mary Roxanna, born February 25, 
184(5; Rebecca Violet, born May 7, 1849; Hester 
Ellen, September 17, 185], married John M. Mar- 
ton, February 19, 1885, and had a daughter, Lucia 
Ethel, born April 5, 1887 (live in Ocoya. III.); 
Margaret Lucia, born February 4, 1854; James 
Patterson Scott emigrated from Washington, Penn. 
to near Washington, 111., in 1837. where as a 
teacher and farmer he spent his life. Dr. John, 
born April 20, 1808, married June 18, 1833, to 
Margaret Sloan, of Pittsburgh, Penn., in which 
city he spent his after life in his chosen profession, 
dentistry (died October 19, 1888, on train while 
en route home from Duluth, Minn., where he had 



been on a visit to his daughter, Mrs. Cash); Hugh, 
born July 4, 1810; John Randolph, born December 
12, 1812, married Asenath Hicks, November 25, 
1847; issue: Anna Martha, born January 13, 1849, 
married George Tobias October 8, 1874, and had 
a son, born December 29, 1879, died in infancy. 
Quincy A., born August 10, 1850, married Lucy J. 
Hatfield, October 26, 1882 (lives in Wayne county, 
Iowa); Emma Julia, born November 19, 1854. 
Roenna Elliott, born July 19, 1853, died September 
30, 1853; Charles Sumner, born November 7, 1857, 
murdered (as supposed) in July, 1880; Lincoln R. , 
born June 23, I860, married Minnie R. Beck, 
October 24, 1888 (lives in Idalia, Col.); William 
Goodel, born February IS. 1862, married La Tina 
Myers, October 7, 1885 (lives in Peoria, 111. ): John 
Randolph emigrated from Washington, Penn., in 
spring of 1837, and settled on Government lands 
which he had entered the previous year, four miles 
south of Washington, 111., where he yet resides, a 
wealthy, intelligent farmer. 

(3) John Scott, Sr. , was a general trader on 
the river to New Orleans and returned across the 
country with horses and mules. He established 
the stage lines from Washington to Pittsburgh, to 
Brownsville to Wheeling, and to Steubenville, Ohio. 
Had three paralytic st rokes at different times, and 
after the third could not walk; had use of his arms, 
but no control of his limbs; had to be lifted and 
fed for twenty years. He died from effects of 
cholera, October 17, 1834, taken the previous 
August; his wife, Martha Patterson, died of cholera 
about August 10, 1834. The father, mother and 
son, Decatur, are buried on the farm on which 
they lived, one and one-half miles east of Wash- 
ington, Penn., now owned by William Davis. 

(3) Elizabeth married Edward Todd. They 
emigrated to the vicinity of Steubenville ataneaily 
day. Mr. John Johnson, a grandson, writes under 
date of April 25, 1887: ''My grandmother, Eliza- 
beth Todd, died in West Virginia, opposite Steu- 
benville, at the residence of her son-in-law, Daniel 
O. Neal. I have no dates. She had six daughters 
and one son, William, who died when a young man. 
The oldest daughter, Jane Carroll, died in Cincin- 
nati two years ago, aged eighty seven. Three of 
her children live in Cincinnati: Edward Carroll, 
Sarah Anne Clemens and Rebecca Mansure. Re- 
becca (Todd) Jewett died in Illinois; her family of 
five sons and one daughter live in Kansas. Le- 
titia (Todd) Finley died some years since; her 
husband, William Finley, and family are living 
near Brown Station, in Jefferson Co. , Ohio. Sarah 
Todd died many years since; her husband, James 
Trumbull, and two daughters — Mrs. James Surratt 
and Mrs. John Olive — are living in Steubenville. 
Mr. Trumbull is very old and wealthy. Rosanna 
(Todd) Johnston, my mother, is the only one of 
the family now liviug; she was eighty-six years 



428 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



old February 22, INST. Of mother's family there 
arc five boys ami two girls; ltebecca McKinney 
lives iu Steubenville, Elizabeth in St. Louis, Curtis 
anil Edward in Iowa, Daniel in Nebraska, William 
iu Kentucky, and your humble servant in Jeffer- 
son county, two miles west of Steubenville, Ohio." 

(3) Sarah married John Jordan. Of her and 
her family nothing is now kuowu, save that she 
and her husband ("migrated to the Sandusky 
Plains, Ohio, at an early date. 

(3) Margaret married James Ramsay, a cap- 
tain iu the war of 1812; emigrated to the vicinity 
of Steubenville. Ohio, at an early date; had one sou 
and four daughters; twin daughters married 
brothers by the name of Maxwell — Thomas Max 
well, of Wintersville, aud James Maxwell, of Steu 
benville, Ohio, are grandsons. 

(3) Josiah married Jane Darragh, born Feb- 
ruary l'J, 1799. Josiah Scott died of cholera 
August 16, 1834, aged sixty-four. Jane Darragh, 
his wife, died December 20, 1841. These parents 
and their sou Hugh, and her parents, John Dar- 
ragh, Sr., who died March 1 1. 181 1, aged seventy- 
seven, and Margaret Darragh, who died August 
20, L824, aged eighty-seven, and the daughter 
Margaret, who died December 5, L851, aged eighty 
one, widow of Dr. Thomas Band, of Washington, 
Penn. , are buried in the Presbyterian Mingo grave- 
yard. Josiah' s children were: (1 ) Margaret. Mc- 
Kinley, Imni February 9, 1807; ('.!) James S., born 
April 27, 1808; (3) John Darragh and (I) Absalom 
Baird (twins) born August 31, 1809; (•">) Hugh, 
bon, October 26, 1811, died November 2, 1832; 

(6) Archibald Darragh, born December 11, 1815; 

(7) Man Jane, born February 15, 1819. (1) Mar- 
garet McKinley, on February — , 1832, married 
Thomas Weir, born September 2, 1802; issue: 
Adam, born January 13, IS)!)'., married May 11, 
1856, to Catherine Wilson, born December 26, 1831. 
and died without issue February 26, 1 889. Josiah 
Scott, born April 10, 1836, married November 29, 
1859, Sarah Ann Hicks, born in Winchester, Ky., 
November 30, 1839; no issue; live at Stanford, 111. 
Samuel Baird, born January 9, 1838, on December 
2, L863, married Margery Winnett, born June I, 
isi)j, died June L2, 1875; issue: Hugh Finley, 
born October 24, 1864; Mary Lizzie, born July 20, 
L866; Ada Margaret, bom January 13, 1873; 
Winnetl Wallace, born February 3, 1875; Hugh, 
born June 3, 1840. At the close of his junior 
year in JelVerson College (1862), enlisted in Com 
pan] G, One Hundred and Fortieth Pennsylvania 
Volunteer Infantry; was wounded July '2, 1863, at 
Gettysburgh, died in Rebel Hospital July 5, 1863; 
Mary Jane, born June 1 1, 1842; Margaret Lavinia, 
bom' April 20, 1847, married October 9, 1878, 
Samuel P. Fergus, born August 17, L843; issue: 
Thomas Harold Weir, born August 11, 1879; Hugh 
Earnest, born January 16, 1881; John Addison, 



born July 3, 1883, died May 14, 1885; David S. 
Littell, boru March 5, 1885, died December 29, 
1SS5; Margaret Josephine, born June 20,1887. 

(2) James Smith, boru April 27, 1808, died Jan- 
uary 1, 1869, married February 14, 1832, to Mary 
Cubbage, born 1809, died May 14, 1877; issue: 
Josiah L. , boru March 20, 1834, died April 3, 
1 S 17 ; James Cubbage, born June 25, 1836. died Sep- 
tember 19, 1841 ; John Alexander, born March 8, 
1839, died September 10, 1841; Almira Jane, born 
February IS, 1841; William Wallace, born January 
30, 1843; James Herron, born August Id, 1846; 
George Wintield, born April 2(1, 1850; Louisa 
Maria, born February 20, 1845, died September 7, 
IS 45. Almira Jane married John B. McBride May 

1, 1873, died November 17, 1884; issue: James 
Scott, born November 23, 1874; John Bavington, 
born September 8, 1876; Charles Cubbage, born 
September 17, 1878; Samuel Bruce, born June 2, 
1880; Mary Alice, boru September 28, 1883, and 
George Wallace, born November 17, 1884. William 
Wallace married Mary J. Roddy May 14, 186S. at 
Sidney, Ohio; issue: Mary Winifred, born Novem- 
ber 27, 1870; Gertrude R., born November 5, 1872; 
Jean Alice, born December 3. 1874; William Wal- 
lace, born June 4, 1880 (live in Sewiokley, Penn.). 
James Herron married Mildred Agnes Bell in 
1876; she died in Washington, Penn., in 1877. His 
second marriage was in 1879 with Frances Ramsey 
Kuhn, who died in McKeesport, Penn., in 1887; 
living issue: John, Mary Ella, and Gertrude; he 
lives in Pittsburgh, 1'euu. George Wintield mar- 
ried Adeline Speer, October 26, 1882 (lives in 
Des Moines, L >wa ). 

(3) John Darragh was married May 28, 1839, 
to Sarah Nance, born October 16, 1811. John D. 
died March 6, 1S80. He was a farmer. Issue: 
Sarah Jane, born February 1, 1840, died October 

2, 1840; Mary Elizabeth, born February 3, IS 13; 
Henry Vance, born Septembers, 1841, died April 
5, 1842; Margaret Jane, born May 16, 1845; Isa- 
bella, born May)!. ISIS; John Vance and Josiah 
Lawrence (twins), born November 28, 1850. Of 
these Mar] Elizabeth was married on August 15, 
I860, to Hiram Winnett, bom in 1836, died August 
IS, 1872; issue: John Hudson, born June 1 ">. 1862; 
Finley Scott, born August 23, 1864; Elizabeth I'.., 
born November 1">, 1866; Catherine A., born Jan- 
uary 23, 1869; Sadie E., born April 1, 1872; John 
Hudson was twice married, first time 'to Rebecca 
Devore, born Julj 5, 1862, and, second time, April 
27, 1892, to Mary Winnett, bom April 11, 1871. 
Scott married Bell Waller in 1891, and lives at 
Columbia Falls, Mont. Elizabeth B. married 
James McDonough in February, 1891, and has one 
son, George Otto. Catherine A. married Frank 
Wright April 15, 1891, and has one son, Winnett 
Wilson, born February 26, 1892. Margaret was 
married October 15, 1863, to Levi G. Raiuey, born 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



429 



July 7. 1842; issue: Eunice Bell, born May 30, 
1865, died September 7, 1868; Frank Wilbert, born 
April 17, 1871; Walter Scott, born August 20, 
1874; Sadie Bell, born December 30, 1879, died 
September 11, 1880. Isabella married Dr. Finley 
B. Winnett, issue: a son, Elmer, who died May 
3, 1892, aged twenty-four, and a son, Ray. John 
Vance married Margaret Miller November 30, 
1876; issue: Maud, born August 2, |S7S; Sarah 
Bell, born September 3, 1880; Wylie Vance, born 
December 1, 1883; Isaac S., born July 29, 1886; 

Waid W., born August 27, 1SS9. Josiah Lnur 

married Tillie Ross December 21, L876; issue: 
Pearl, born November 12, 1877; Eddie, born De- 
cember 11, 1879; and Ely,born May 13, 1882, and 
John V., Tillie and Otto. 

(Ii Absalom Baird was married September IS, 
1834, to Rebecca Finley, born August II, 181 1; 
Absalom died May 1, 1861; Rebecca Finley died 
February 15, 1892; issue: Mary Jane, born Feb- 
ruary 14, 1836; John Finley, born April 2, 1838; 
Josiah Scott, born July 27, 1840, died April 2, 
IS 13; James Kerr, born December IS, 1842; Mar- 
garet Baird, born May 21. IN 15; Hugh Clemens, 
born August 18, 1847; Frances E., born May 15, 
1850; Sarah, born August 30, 1852, died January 
29, 1892. Mary Jane married February 22, 1859, 
JohnD. Henry, born October 12, 1831; issue: Allie 
Margaret, burn December 22, 1859; Edwin Absa- 
lom, born April 29, 1862; Frances Rebecca, born 
March 27, 1865; Etta Mary, born December 20, 
1868; Reid Scott, born May 9, 1873. They live in 
Idlewood, Allegheny Co., Penn. John Finley 
married Maggie Davis, born January 16, 1842; 
issue: Mary Frances, born October 24, 1864, mar- 
ried Leaman Brownlee; Rebecca, born January 5, 
1NI>7, died November 13, 1875; George Davis, born 
November 29, 1869; Anna Maud, born August 9, 
1872; Hugh Baird, born October 20, 1874, died 
August 5, 1875. James Kerr was twice married, 
first time November 16, 1865, to Sarah Ellen Rob- 
erts, born May 12, 1844, died November 2, 1875; 
issue: Laura and Albert; his second marriage was 
with Jennie Logan in 1891. Margaret Baird mar- 
ried Charles Jones November 25, 1883; issue: one 
son. Ohauncey. 

(6) Archibald Darragh was married October 30, 
1839, to Tamar Crawford, bom October 11, 1818; 
Archibald D. died March 2, 1891; Tamar, his 
wife, died August 8, 1863; issue: (1) James 
Crawford, born August 30, 1841, married May 4, 
1872, to Mary Underwood, born August 15, 1850; 
no issue; live iu Mt. Vernon, Ohio. (2) Nancy 
•lane, bora July 11, 1843, died June 22, 1847. 
(3) Mary Elizabeth, born July 30, 1845, was 
married October 19, 1871, to Steven Beatty, who 
died February 5, 1883. (4) Margaret Jane, born 
December 28, 1847. (5) Josiah L., born January 



4, 1850, was married December 25, 1882, to Mrs. 
M. L. Wise Shields, born January 22, 1862; live 
in East End, Pittsburgh, Penn. (6) Andrew 
Winfield, born May 16, 1852, married May 30, 
1877, Dora P. Shields, born September 1, 1861; 
issue: Tamar Etta, born January 2, 1878; Archi- 
bald James, born November 3(1, 1880; and Josiah 
Vance, born February 1", 1S82; lives in East End, 
Pittsburgh, Penn. 

(7) Mary Jane married, in 1S37, William 
Sample, born July 11, 1815; emigrated to Taze- 
well county, 111. , in 1838; William died June 5, 
1871; Mary Jane, his wife, died November 15, 
1874; they with three of their children (save the 
first) are buried in El Paso, Woodford Co., 111.; 
issue: Josiah Scott, born June 20, 1839, died 
November 7, 1839; Hugh Workman, born July 
27, 1843, died June 8, 1872; Theodore, born 
November 5, 1846; Sarah Jane, born September 
9. 1849, .He. I April is, 1S75; John William, bom 
March 11. 1858, died February 14, 1881; Ida 
Violet, born February lt», 1861. Of these, Theo- 
dore married December 24, 1874, Jennie Toole, 
born in Ireland January 25, 1853; issue: Theo 
dore Tilden, bom July 20, 1876; Ida Mary, born 
June 12, 1S7S; William Montana, born July 22, 
1885, and Harry, born October 11, 1888. Ida 
Violet was married December 9, 1879, to John 
Wesley Kennedy, born August 16, 1851; issue 
Walter Scott, born August 15, 1882; Harry 
Sample, born January 19, 1885, and Ida Violet, 
born June 9, 1889, died August 23, 1889. Theo- 
dore and Ida Violet with their families reside in 
Logansport, Ind. 

The following additional matter was written by 
Col. John Scott, of Nevada, Iowa: In the old 
cemetery near Washington, Penn., repose the 
ashes of one of the pioneers, over which is this 
inscription: "In memory of Josiah Scott, who 
died on the 20th day of February, 1819, aged 
81 years. Having sustained a character exem- 
plary for honesty, piety and usefulness, he came to 
the grave in a full age, as a shock of corn cometh 
in his season. Job, 5th chap, and 26th verse." 

Josiah Scott, the youngest son of (2) Abra 
ham Scott, was born in Chester county, Penn., 
in 1735. His father was born in the same county 
in 1677, and was a son of Hugh Scott, a native 
of the North of Ireland, who came to Penn- 
sylvania about 167D. At least two of the sons 
of Abraham Scott, Hugh and Josiah, were pio- 
neers in the county of Washington. They lived 
to an advanced age, both dying in 1819, and each 
of them leaving a numerous posterity, now widely 
separated. Josiah Scott married Violet Foster in 
1760. 

He was a blacksmith' — a maker of edge tools, 
especially of sickles — and was a skillful and 



430 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



rapid reaper, being stout, muscular, and robust. 
He was of vigorous constitution, plain and simple 
in manners, habits, and tastes, and noted for his 
strong common sense and Bound judgment. He 
was for many years an elder in the Presbyterian 
Church, and was highly respected for his ability 
and many virtues. His early home was at Peach 
Bottom, where the Susquehanna river crosses the 
State line. From thence he removed to the wilds 
of Washington county, and became a resident of 
Catfish, now Washington. This change of loca- 
tion occurred in 1773-74. He worked at his trade 
and at farming till his death, at the age of eighty- 
four. 

To Josiah Scott and Violet (Foster) were born 
eight children, six of whom reared families, whose 
descendants are in many States. The two elder 
sons, Alexander and Abram, married, respectively, 
Bachel and Rebecca, daughters of Hon. John Mc- 
Dowell, aiid Agnes (Bradford), his wife. The late 
Hon. Josiah Scott, of Bucyrus, Ohio, a distin- 
guished scholar and jurist, for many years a judge 
of the Supreme court of Ohio, was a son of Alexan- 
der Scott. ThelateHon. Josiah Scott, of Cadiz, Ohio, 
a member of the convention which passed the Con- 
stitution of that State, and his brother, the late 
Hon. William Scott, of Guernsey county, Ohio, 
were sons of Abram Scott. The latter was a min- 
ister in the Presbyterian Church; so, also, was his 
brother James, who for more that forty years was 
pastor of a church at Mt. Vernon, Ohio. Josiah, 
the sixth child of the first Josiah, became a farmer, 
settled in Columbiana county, Ohio, and reared 
a large family. The elder daughter of Josiah, Sr., 
Mary, married William Cotton, and settled in 
Beaver county, Penn. The younger daughter, 
Elizabeth, married Robert Stevenson, and also 
settled in Beaver county. Their descendants are 
numerous, and widely scattered. By a second 
marriage Josiah Scott had four sons. Robert set- 
tletl in Carroll county, Ohio, and has many de- 
scendants. Hugh and Gen. Sam. Scott remained 
in Washington couuty, where they are still rep- 
resented. John died on the old homestead, 
near Washington, in his early prime, leaving 
a family of three daughters, Mrs. Workman Hughes 
being one of them. 

Among the representatives of this old blood of 
Washington county mav be named Hon. A. W. 
Scott, of Toledo, Ohio; Rev. W. W. Colmery, D. 
D., of Oxford, Ohio; Rev. R. C. Colmery, of San 
dusky, Ohio; Rev. D. R. Colmery, D. D., of Los 
Angeles, Cal. ; Rev. Alexander Scott, of Denver, 
Col.; Col. John Scott, of Nevada, Iowa; Prof. E. 
M. Cotton, of Chester, Iowa; Dr. J. E. Scott, of 
Chicago, and Hon. Lawson Scott, of Mendota, 
II!.; all of whom are great grandsons of ''Old 
Josiah." 



II RA BEBOUT, prominent in agricultural circles 
I as a well to-do farmer and successful stock- 
raiser, is a native- of Jefferson county, Ohio, 
born September 4, 1828, a son of Peter and 
Isabella (Cooper) Bebout. 

John Bebout, grandfather of Ira, was a native 
of Holland, whence, when a boy, he came to Amer- 
ica with his parents, who made a settlement in 
New Jersey. Here John learned the trade of tan- 
ner, which, in connection with farming, he carried 
on in New Jersey and afterward in Washington 
county, Penn., for a period in all of some thirty 
years. In 1796 he came to this county, and pur- 
chased a tract of land (covering 300 acres) in 
what is now North Strabaue township. At that 
time men never went abroad without their guns 
and a plentiful supply of ammunition. Here 
Mr. Bebout lived until he was seventy years of age, 
when he moved to Mercer county, Penn., and there 
died. He was a member of Dr. McMillan's Church 
(Presbyterian), and while in New Jersey was an 
elder in the church there. As a Revolutionary 
soldier he served under Gen. Washington, rising 
from the ranks to a captaincy, and receiving a pen- 
sion. He was the father of nine children, Will- 
iam, Sarah, Peter, Susan, Elizabeth, Israel, Ira, 
John and Mary. 

Peter Bebout was born in New Jersey in 1 776, and 
was twenty-one years old when he first came to this 
county. In 1804 he moved to Ohio, where he took 
up a piece of wild land which he cleared and cul- 
tivated and lived on until 1.S30, when he returned 
to this couuty and settled in North Strabane town 
ship, taking a portion of the home place his father 
had bought, and which he materially helped to 
improve. He died in 1859. Mr. Bebout was twice 
married, first to Betsey Kinney, who bore him 
children as follows: Jdhn, William, James, Levi, 
Peter, Israel, Sarah and Elizabeth. The mother 
of this family dying, Mr. Bebout married Isabelle, 
daughter of Joshua Cooper, of Jefferson county, 
Ohio, and the children of this marriage were Mary 
(Mrs. William Hays), Susan (Mrs. William Be- 
bout), Ira (our subject), Margaret (Mrs. Cephas 
Cochran), David, Isabel (Mrs. John Crouch), 
Stephen (deceased), Joshua, Caroline (Mrs. Joseph 
Maines), Jane and Hermon H. Bebout. In poli- 
tics Mr. Bebout was a Democrat ; in religions 
faith a Presbyterian. He served in the war of 
1812, under Gen. Harrison, until the close of the 
struggle. 

Ira Bebout, after a thorough educational train- 
ing at the common schools of his native district, 
settled down to regular agricultural pursuits on 
the old home place, and by his own unaided efforts 
made a, success of all his undertakings, being a 
thoroughly representative self-made man, enter- 
prising and progressive. He was twice married. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



431 



first time October 6, 1856, to Mrs. Jane Hamilton 
{nee Hamilton), a native of Ireland, who came to 
the United States at the age of seventeen, and was 
married to Charles Hamilton, a second cousin, who 
died. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Bebout 
were Isabella (Mrs. W. A. Patterson, who died 
August 20, 1892), Elmira (Mrs. William Scott), 
and Elmer, who married Jane Thomas, living in 
Hamilton county, Neb., where he carries on farm 
ing operations. This wife dying in October, 1884, 
Mr. Bebout married, for his second wife, Mrs. 
Anna Raney, of Nottingham township. Our sub- 
ject, in his political preferences, was originally a 
Democrat, but since the outbreak of the Rebellion 
has allied himself with the Republican party. He 
is a member of the Presbyterian Church of Monon- 
gahela City, formerly of Dr. McMillan's Church, 
and of the II. P. Church at Munntown. He owns 
a fine residence on Main street, where he resides, 
renting his farms. He enjoys the confidence and 
respect of all. v 



JOHN C. VAN KIRK. Among the many well- 
known and highly esteemed families of Am- 
well township, the name of Van Kirk ranks 
with the first. Jacob Van Kirk, grandfather 
of our subject, was a native of New Jersey, where 
he married Elizabeth Lee and in 1785 rucvyed to 
Washington county, Penn. To this couple were 
born four children: Enoch, born April 14, 1790; 
Joseph, born January 17, 1798; Ann, born Febru- 
ary 13, 1806; and Leah, born May 19, 1817. 

Joseph Van Kirk was born in Washington county, 
Penn., and passed his entire life in Amwell town- 
ship, the farm on which he was born. On Feb- 
ruary 27, 1823, he was united in marriage with 
Eliza Corwin, and his children were as follows: 
Hiram, Charles, William (deceased), Mrs. Charlotte 
McElree (deceased), Mrs. Anna Van Kirk, Mrs. 
Sarah Van Kirk (the latter two having married dis- 
tant relatives of the same name), Norma (deceased) 
and John C. Joseph Van Kirk was a captain in the 
Pennsylvania State Militia, and was one of the 
most energetic and active citizens of Amwell town- 
ship. After a long and useful life he passed to 
his long home August 24, 1878, at the ripe age of 
eighty- two years. 

John C. Van Kirk was born September 15, 1828, 
on the old home farm in Amwell township, which 
is now owned by his brother Charles. His youth 
and early manhood were passed in assisting his 
father to fell the forest trees and transform the 
rugged hills and valleys into fertile fields of grain. 
On April 1, 1851, he was married to Esther Buck- 
ingham, who died September 2, 1855, leaving a 
child that died four days later. On February 19, 
1857, Mr. Van Kirk wedded Mary McClanthan, 
who bore him two children: Irena M. , born March 



27, 1858, and Catherine F., born March 30, 1861, 
both of whom are yet living at home. Our sub- 
ject has a well cultivated farm of 244 acres, which 
is considered one of the best in the township, and 
stands a solid witness to the thrift and prosperity 
of the owner. He has ever been foremost in all 
matters of public interest, and while an adherent 
of the Democratic party, has always voted for 
what in his opinion would result in good to the 
largest number, irrespective of party lines. His 
family are Presbyterians, though he himself is not 
a member of any church. 

liOHN S. PATTERSON, a well-known repre- 
sentative of one of the oldest, most influen- 
^1 tial and prosperous families of Cross Creek 
"^ township, is a lineal descendant of James 
Patterson, the earliest pioneer of the family name. 
James Patterson immigrated to America in 1728, 
settling in Little Britain township, Lancaster Co., 
T?enn., where he was married and reared a family 
of ten children, of whom the sons were William, 
John, Samuel, James and Thomas. 

William Patterson was born in 1733, and was 
first married to Rosanna Scott, who bore him chil- 
dren as follows: Mary, Moses, Samuel, Thomas 
and James. The mother died April 5, 1769, and 
on April 10, 1770, William Patterson was again 
married, his second choice being Elizabeth Brown, * 
and ten children were born to the latter union: 
John, Rosanna, William, Nathaniel, Rachel, Eliza- 
beth, Josiah, Hannah, Nathan and Eleanor. In 
1779 the family removed to Cross Creek township, 
this county, settling on a farm now owned by R. 
M. Patterson. The father was a soldier in the 
Revolutionary war. He died June 29, 1818, and 
his wife passed from earth about 1828. 

Nathan Patterson, a son of William and Eliza- 
beth (Brown) Patterson, was born September 11, 
1788, in Cross Creek township, this county, and 
on October 14, 1816, was married to Lydia Hous- 
ton. The young couple settled in Cross Creek 
township, and reared the following children: Dan- 
iel, William J., John, Nathan and Mary. The 
father of this family died in February, 1846, at the 
age of fifty-eight years. 

William J. Patterson was born May 10, 1820, 
on the home farm, and passed his boyhood in at- 
tending to the agricultural duties. He began the 
milling business in early life, and always followed 
that vocation. He was first married on May 5, 
1849, to Elizabeth Reed, of Washington county, 
and they had one child, Agnes A. Mrs. Patterson 
died August 17, 1857, in Iowa, and Mr. Patterson 
was afterward married to Eliza Snodgrass, of Al- 
legheny county, Penn., daughter of Robert Snod- 
grass, one of the pioneer lumbermen of that county. 
At this time he bought and moved upon the Pat- 
terson's Mills property. Four children weie bom 



432 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



to Mr. and Mrs. Patterson: Lydia H., Hannah M., 
Lizzie M. (a student in a seminar)' at Washing- 
ton) aud JohnS. William J. Patterson was a life- 
long Democrat in politics, and in religious connec- 
tion was an elder in the Union Presbyterian Church 
of Patterson's Mills until 1876, when he withdrew 
from that body, and united with the Presbyterian 
Church at Independence, this county, of which he 
was also an elder. He died September 4, 1889, 
followed by his widow January 28, 1892. 

John S. Patterson was born July 12, 1860, on 
the old Patterson homestead, where he remained, 
assisting with the duties of the farm and mill until 
he arrived at man's estate. His early education 
was received at the common schools. He then took 
a course at the Cross Creek Academy, and finally 
graduated from Duff's Commercial College of Pitts- 
burgh. On June 3, 1886, he was united in mar- 
riage with Miss Elizabeth Dunbar, daughter of 
William Dunbar, a resident of Cross Creek town- 
ship, this county. In political matters Mr. Patter- 
son has followed in the footsteps of his forefathers, 
and votes the straight Democratic ticket. He is 
an honorable aud conscientious Christian gentle- 
man, who well merits the esteem in which he is 
universally held, and in religious faith is a mem 
ber of and elder in the Presbyterian Church of 
Cross Creek. 

OBERT LAW PARK is descended from 
Irish ancestry. His great grandfather, 
Samuel Park, came from the North of Ire- 
* land and settled in Lancaster county, Penn. 
He afterward married Margaret Marshall, 
who had crossed the ocean in the same ship, and 
they had five children. 

John Park, son of Samuel and Margaret, was 
born December 18, 1758, and in 1777 came to 
Cecil township, Washington Co., Penn. In June. 
1787, he married Sarah, daughter of Judge John 
McDowell, who resided in North Strabane town- 
ship, this county. Their children were ten in 
number. John Park died May 31. 1832, and 
Sarah, his wife, passed away April 6, 1857; their 
remains lie in the Chartiers graveyard. 

William Park, son of John and Sarah, was born 
July 15, 1797, in Cecil township, Washington Co., 
Penn. In 183] he bought, some 300 acres of land 
in Peters township, Washington Co., Penn. On 
October 29, 1833, he was married to Jane Law, 
and they had seven children. William Park en- 
tered into his eternal rest November 6, 1870; Jane 
his wife, survived hini till July 15, 1892; their re- 
mains rest in the Centre graveyard. 

Robert Law Park, sou of William and Jane, was 
born May 11. 1817, and was married February 
12, 1874,"to Mary McClelland. They, with their 
two children, reside on a part of his father's origi- 
nal purchase in Peters township. 





BRAM ELLIOTT, one of the prosperous 
and enterprising farmers of Morris town- 
ship, was born April 20, 1817, near the 
place where he now resides. William 
Elliott, a native of Maryland, located near 
the present residence of Abram Elliott, about three 
miles west of Prosperity, in the early days of the 
county. He reared a family of seven children, of 
whom William Elliott, the father of Abram was 
one. William Elliott, Jr., married Jemima Winget, 
and to their union nineteen children were born, of 
whom three sons and four daughters are living, as 
follows: Luther, living near West Alexander; 
William, living in Kansas; Mrs. Emeline Mont- 
gomery, living in East Finley township; Mrs. Mar- 
garet Montgomery, also living in East Finley town- 
ship; Anne, also in East Finley township; Mrs. 
Salviua Ashbrook, living in Morris township, and 
Abram. 

Abram Elliott was reared on his father's farm, 
and his only education was received at the district 
schools. At the age of seventeen he learned the 
trade of cabinet-maker, at which he worked at 
Washington, West Alexander, Monongahela City 
and other places, for a number of years. For the 
past twenty-five years however, he has given his 
attention to his farm, where he was reared. He 
was married in 1840 to Mary Ashbrook, who was 
born in 1S15, a daughter of Simon Ashbrook, of 
Buffalo township. To their union one child has 
been born, Jemima, who was born August 24, 
1843, and still makes her home with her parents. 
Though not au active politician, Mr. Elliott is a 
strict adherent to the principles of the Democratic 
party. 

If SAAC C. AILES, who is p member of one of 
the oldest families of Pennsylvania, is of early- 
Welsh ancestry. Stephen Ailes was born and 
passed his whole life in Chester county, Penn., 
where his son Amos was born in 1751, and grew 
to manhood. In early life Amos Ailes was mar- 
ried to Ann, daughter of Joseph Brown, a farmer 
of Chester county, Penn., and soon after they came 
to Washington county, locating on a tract of land 
in East Pike Run township, which had then been 
in the possession of Joseph Brown for about two 
years. At the time Amos Ailes settled upon it, the 
place was an unbroken wilderness, inhabited only 
by wild beasts and wandering Indians. Two young 
girls named Scott, were killed by the Redmen about 
this time, and Mrs. Ailes shot a deer in her door- 
yard soon after their arrival. In this wild forest 
home children were born to these pioneers, and 
reared, as follows: Joseph, Stephen, Aaron, Mary 
(wife of Eli Gause), James, Sarah (wife of John 
Wailes). Isaac and Amos. Mr. Ailes was a Whig 
in politics, and in religion a member of the Society 
of Friends. He died in February, 1835, and was 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



435 



buried by the side of his wife in the Westland 
cemetery in East Bethlehem township, Washing- 
ton county. 

Isaac Ailes was born March 21, 1794, on the 
home farm in East Pike Run township, Washing- 
ton county. He attended the Union school-house, 
which was one of the first erected in East Pike 
Run township, and built over a century ago. On 
May 24, 1824, he was united in marriage with 
Nancy, daughter of Nathan Coleman. Mr. Cole- 
man was born and reared in eastern Maryland, 
where he was married to Elizabeth Duncan. In 
1802 they came to West Pike Run township, Wash- 
ington Co., Penn., and a few years later moved to 
Ohio. Their children were Sophia (wife of Elisha 
Mayhorn), Maria (married to Nathan Rice) and 
Nancy (wife of Isaac Ailes). After theii mar- 
riage Mr. and Mrs. Ailes settled on the home place 
where they passed the rest of their lives. He was 
a Whig and Republican, and in 1840 was elected 
justice of the peace, holding that office until 1850, 
also serving as'school director several years. He 
was an energetic, enterprising man until rheumatism 
compelled him to retire from active work and 
spend the last twenty-eight years of his life an in- 
valid. He died February 28, 1874, having been 
preceded by his wife in August, 1872, and they 
were buried in the home cemetery. Mrs. Ailes was 
;i devout Methodist, while Mr. Ailes was reared in 
the Quaker faith. Their children were born as 
follows: Ann ( wife of Samuel Sickman), Jane (mar- 
ried to Wesley White), Matilda (wife of William 
Stockdale), Isaac O, and Stephen H. (deceased). 

Isaac C. Ailes was born December 4, 1834. in 
East Pike Run township, Washington Co., Penn., 
and attended the home schools during his boyhood, 
afterward taking charge of the home place. On 
February 6, 1855, he was united in marriage with 
Margaret M., daughter of Jacob Snyder, who was 
a son of Nicholas Snyder. The latter was a native 
of Westmoreland county, Penn., where he grew to 
manhood, and was married to Eva Hough, who bore 
him the following children: John, Jacob, Mary, 
Charlotte (wife of Joseph Krepps), William, Henry, 
Joseph, David, Louisa (wife of William Norcross), 
James and Margaret (married to Harvey Seymour). 
The father of this family was a Democrat in polit- 
ical opinion, and in religious faith a member of 
the Lutheran Church. Jacob Snyder was born in 
1804, on the home place in Westmoreland county, 
where he was reared and educated. He was mar- 
ried to Hannah, daughter of Thomas Stockdale, a 
native of Washington county, Penn., born Novem- 
ber 15, 1808, and to their union were born eight 
children, namely: Stockdale, Allen (deceased), Amy 
A. (deceased), Margaret M. (wife of Isaac C. Ailes), 
Charlotte (deceased), William, Louisa (wife of 
Philip Smith) and Deborah A. (deceased wife of 
Caleb Porter). Soon after his marriage Mr. Sny- 



der moved to a farm in Fayette county, same 
State, where the remainder of his life was passed. 
Politically he voted with the Democratic party, and 
in religion was a member of the Cumberland Pres- 
byterian Church, of which he was an elder for 
forty years. 

Isaac C. and Margaret M. (Snyder) Ailes begau 
wedded life on the home place in East Pike Run 
township, where they are yet living. They have 
had five children, as follows: Allen H. (married 
Jenna A. Chester, March 21, 1877, and the same 
year they moved to the State of Missouri ; she died 
August 21, 1881, and he died November 21, same 
year, leaving one son, Reuald, who, when about 
two years old, was sent to his grandparents on the 
home farm); Anson A. (married to Lizzie M. Ly- 
tle, of Allegheny county, Penn., and they reside 
on the home farm); Rilla A. (deceased); Irena (mar- 
ried to James H. McCrory, and living on an ad- 
joining farm; they have four sons: Ralph A., Al- 
bert J., Clarence H. and Ira C. ); and Luella (re- 
maining at home). Mr. Ailes is a stanch mem- 
ber of the Republican party, and has served his 
township {pr twelve years as township auditor. 
He has been president of the California National 
Bank since its first organization, August 6, 1891, 
with William H. Binns as cashier. He is a mem- 
ber of the Methodist Episcopal Church, giving it 
liberal support, and has been Sunday-school super- 
intendent at the Union schoolhouse near the 
home place. 



jjr- 1 ^ W. DODDS, an energetic and prosperous 

|>rf7 young farmer of Donegal township, is a 

PV, native of Washington county, Penn., born 

\\ -^ September 12, 1858, in Independence, In- 

V dependence township. 

His grandfather, JohnDodds, was born in 1771. 
in County Donegal, Ireland, and when but a mere 
boy ran away to sea, first becoming an apprentice 
on a British merchantman bound for India. He 
followed a sailor life for some time, but at length 
became tired of adventure, and when ashore one 
day while his ship waB in the harbor of Philadel- 
phia, he concluded to remain on land, and did so. 
He afterward entirely abandoned li a life on the 
ocean wave," and deciding that a home in the for- 
est wilds offered superior attractions to " a home 
on the rolling deep," he came west, walking the 
entire distance from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh, 
Penn. On his arrival in the latter city he en- 
gaged in the river trade with Malcolm Leech, 
taking merchandise to New Orleans, which at that 
time was a good market, the return journey to 
Pittsburgh being made on foot. After steam 
power was applied to river navigation, this practice 
was abandoned, and he did but little in that busi- 
ness after 1836. In 1818 John Dodds was united 



436 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



in marriage with Sarah McKeever, of West Middle- 
town, Perm., who was born in 1797, and they had the 
following children: Agnes (deceased), Thomas (de- 
ceased), James, Margaret (widow of Lewis Ap- 
plegate, of Brooke county, W. Va.), Mary Ann 
(Mrs. William Dodds, of Washington, Iowa), 
John (also living in Washington, Iowa), and 
William deceased). Soon after his marriage Mr. 
Dodds purchased the farm known as the "Old 
Dodds homestead," lying two and one-half miles 
south of Independence. In 1826 he moved to 
West Middletown, in order to secure better edu- 
cational opportunities for his children, but ten 
years later he returned to the farm, and lived 
a retired life. He was of a very generous dis- 
position, and many poor Irish emigrants received 
money from him to pay their passage to Amer- 
ica. Among the number he brought a brother 
and family from Ireland, and purchased a home 
for them in Harrison county, Ohio. Politically 
he was a Whig, and in religion a member of 
the Presbyterian Church. He died in 1850; his 
widow is now living with a daughter in Iowa, 
almost a century having passed over he»head. 

Jamas Dodds, father of subject, was born Feb- 
ruary '26, 1822, on the farm in Independence town- 
ship which is his present home. He received a 
common-school education, working on the home 
farm during his younger years. In 1848 he was 
married to Elvira Vance, who was born in 1828, 
daughter of James Vance, and they had three chil- 
dren: James V. (residing in Independence town- 
ship), Joseph C. (living at home), and R. W. Mr. 
Dodds resided on the home farm in Independence 
township for some time after his marriage; then 
farmed two years in Brooke county, W. Va., and 
afterward lived in Independence seven years, where 
he was dealing in stock. In 1859 he purchased 
the "home farm," upon which he is now living. 
Mr. Dodds has traveled a great deal, and is a rep- 
resentative man of his neighborhood. In politics 
he is an active Republican, and has held various 
township offices. 

R. \Y. Dodds was brought from the village of 
Independence to the old home farm in Independ- 
ence township at an early age, and obtained a 
common-school education at the schools of the 
township, as well as the necessary experience for 
the making of a prosperous farmer. On December 
21, 1882, he was married to Laura Hair, who was 
born November 7, I Mil. in Fayette county, Penn., 
a daughter of Abraham Hair, of Donegal township, 
and to their union t he following children were 
born: Mary, Alma, Bertha M., Carrie and James 
A. Mr. Dodds lived with his parents some time 
after his marriage, and in 1SS7 purchased a part 
of the "Dickey tract," located in Donegal town- 
ship, about one and one-half miles south of Duns- 
fort, near the West Virginia line. He has since 



been engaged in general farming and stockraising. 
He is a very progressive and energetic young agri- 
culturist, sure to succeed in life. In political 
opinions he is a Republican. 



diOHN M. McILVAINE, a prominent farmer of 
I Mt. Pleasant township, is descended from one 
| of the earliest pioneers of Washington county. 
He is a son of Guyau and Jane (Ferguson) 
Mcllvaine, and a grandson of Greer and Eliza- 
beth (Morrow) Mcllvaine. The last mentioned 
couple were natives of Lancaster county, Penn., of 
Irish descent, and were married in their native 
county. Greer Mcllvaine, with his wife and brother 
George, came to Washington county, Penn., in an 
early day, and on May 20, 1788, took out a war- 
rant for a tract of land in Somerset township con- 
taining 407 acres. This was surveyed to him 
February 11, 1789, as "Calydon." To Greer 
and Elizabeth (Morrow) Mcllvaine were born the 
following children: John. Guyan, Greer, George, 
William, Andrew, Margaret (Mrs. William Den- 
niston), Mary (Mrs. James Greenlee), Ruth (Mrs. 
Joseph Moreton), Catherine (Mrs. Samuel Smith), 
Elizabeth (Mrs. William Campbell), Esther (Mrs. 
Thomas Carson). Ann (wife of Joseph Scott), and 
Eleanor (married to David Scott). Greer Mcllvaine 
and his wife were members of the old Pigeon Creek 
Presbyterian Church. 

Guyan Mcllvaine was born about 1792, in Somer- 
set township, this county, and was reared on the 
home farm. He was first married to Jane Fergu- 
son, who was also born in Somerset township, and 
four children were born to this union: Lydia (widow 
of John Phillips, living in Greene county, Penn.); 
William Greer (married in Vicksburg. and died in 
1882 at Memphis, Tenn.), Robert F. (living in 
Rochester, Beaver Co., Penn.) and John M. (our 
subject). The mother of these children died in 
1823, and about 1830 Guyan Mcllvaine selected a 
second wife in the person of Jane Bratton, a native 
of Lancaster county, Penn. Their children were 
Harvey (living in Kansas), Ann Eliza (wife of Will- 
iam M. Campbell, of Cross Creek township), Joseph 
Lawrence (an editor, residing in New Philadel- 
phia, Ohio), Isabella (a maiden lady, living in Mt. 
Pleasant township), Mary Esther (also unmarried), 
Boyd (living in Illinois), James A. (living in Mt. 
Pleasant- township, this county) and Martha Ellen 
(wife of Harper Symonton, of Mt. Pleasant town- 
ship). Guyan Mcllvaine followed agricultural pur- 
suits all his life. He served as a soldier in the war 
of L812. 

John M. Mcllvaine was born in 1821, in Somerset 
township, on the home farm. His boyhood was 
passed in farm work, and in attending the schools 
of the township and of Hickory village. He came 
to Mt. Pleasant township at the age of fourteen 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



437 



years. la 1856 he was married to Margaret Ann 
Carter, daughter of William and Ann Carter, na- 
tives of Scotland, who settled in Mt. Pleasant town- 
ship in an early day, and there passed the rest of 
their lives. 

John M. and Margaret Ann (Carter) Mcllvaine 
began their married life on a farm south of Hickory, 
this county, where three children were born to them, 
namely: Anna Jane, Maria Belle and William El- 
mer (a carpenter, married to Miss Anna Leach, of 
Smith township). The mother died in 1864. In 
1 8>Sl Mr. Mcllvaine bought a farm of seventy-five 
acres, which is in a prosperous condition. He is 
active in politics, and casts his vote with the Re- 
publican partv; at a special election held in Mav, 
1842, he cast "his first vote for Thomas M. T. Mc- 
Kennan for Congress, to fill-a vacancy caused by the 
death of Joseph Lawrence. In religion he is con- 
nected with the Presbyterian Church at Mount 
Prospect. 



d[OHN BIRCH. This venerable and justly 
honored citizen of Claysville is a native of 
| the Keystone State, born August 5, 1810, in 
Cumberland county, near Shippensburgh. 
John Birch, his paternal grandfather, was by 
birth an Irishman, of Scotch descent. He early 
learned the trade of a weaver, which he followed 
nearly all his life, both in his native land and in 
America, and for twelve years he served as a sol- 
dier in the British army. He was married in his 
native country to Miss Jane Bright, and the chil- 
dren born to them were William, Valentine, James, 
Jane, John, David, Thomas and Ann. In 1801 
he came with his family to America, and made a 
home in Cumberland county, Penn., for a short. 
time; then came to Washington county, settling in 
Amwell township, where he continued to follow 
his trade of weaver to the day of his death. 

William Birch, eldest son of the old pioneer, 
was born in Belfast, Ireland, February 3, 1788, 
where his early education was received. Coming 
with the rest of the family to this country, as 
above related, he completed his school training in 
Cumberland county, Penn. In the course of time 
he formed a partnership with a Mr. Campbell in 
the manufacture of various kinds of cloth, in 
which business he remained for several years. 
While yet a young man he was married to Eliza- 
beth Mitchell, who was born in 1791, in Cumber- 
land, county, Penn., a daughter of John Mitchell, 
a Scotch-Irishman, who came to this country about 
1760, and the children born to this union were 
John, Mary, William, David, George Bright, 
Thomas L., Drusilla, Margaret J., Mitchell, Joseph 
and Elizabeth. Mr. Birch and family in 1818 
emigrated from Cumberland county to Washington 
county, locating on a small farm in Amwell town- 



ship for a couple of years, and then moving to the 
farm now occupied by W. C. Ramsey, in Canton 
township, on which they remained four years. 
From there they came to Buffalo township, where 
they resided ten years, and from here proceeded, 
in 1835, to Holmes county, Ohio, where he lived 
until the death of Mrs. Birch, which occurred in 
1844, when the bereaved husband went to Fulton 
county, 111., thence to Birmingham, Van Buren Co., 
Iowa, where he died April 20, 1879. Politically 
he was on Old-time Whig, and in religion a Pres- 
byterian. 

The boyhood and early youth of John Birch were 
passed on the home place in Cumberland county 
and in Canton township, this county, in the sub- 
scription schools of which latter he received his 
education. At the age of sixteen he was appren- 
ticed to Jacob Sharp, a tanner, with whom he 
remained four years, at the expiration of which 
time he commenced as a journeyman, working 
nearly a year for Mr. Sharp. He then, in 1832, 
came to Claysville, and here entered the employ of 
a tanner; but it was not long before he commenced 
on his own account by starting a tannery in that 
borough, which he operated for fifty years with 
every success. On May 5, 1835, he was married 
to Harriet Reed, who was born in Amwell township, 
Washington county, October 15, 1815, daughter 
of James Reed, and by this union were the follow- 
ing children: George W. F., born March 26, 1837 
(was educated at Washington and Jefferson Col- 
lege, and is now a Presbyterian minister in New 
York City); Francis A., born April 26, 1840, died 
September 13, 1863 (also educated at Washington 
and Jefferson College); William T., born Septem- 
ber 2. 1842, died February 4, 1864; Edward P., 
born February 1, 1845, died 1847; Henry B.,boru 
January 9, 1849; John M. , born July 7, 1851 (was 
educated at Washington and Jefferson College); 
Elizabeth M., born June 1, 1854 (married to Rev. 
J. J. McCarrell, of McKeesport, Penn.); Thomas 
F., born May 18, 1856 (educated at Washington 
and Jefferson College), and Harriet J., born Janu- 
ary 9, 1860 (married to Frank T. Wray, a druggist 
of Apollo, Armstrong Co., Penn.). The mother 
of this family died June 14, 1877, and on February 
28, 1882, Mr. Birch was united in marriage at 
Beaver Falls, Penn, with Elizabeth, daughter of 
Dr. Samuel P. Todd, who was born February 24, 
1792, in New York. He studied for the medical 
profession at Schenectady, N. Y. , and commenced 
practice in New York, proving an able and suc- 
cessful physician. He was married to Susan, 
daughter of Aaron Kerr, a native of New Jersey, 
and she bore him eight children. Dr. Todd was a 
member and warm supporter of the Presbyterian 
Church, and in politics he was an active Whig. 

Mr. Birch has always been a strong Democrat, 
and has served with commendable zeal in various 



i:;s 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



positions of trust. His first office was that of jus- 
tice of the peace, to which he was four times re- 
elected; in 1848 lie was elected county commis- 
sioner, serving three years; in I860 he was one of 
the census enumerators; in 1875 be was Dominated 
and elected representative, to the State Legislature, 
receiving a flattering majority of over one hundred 
votes in a Republican county. Mr. Birch and his 
family art« members of the Presbyterian Church, 
of which he has been trustee and a liberal sup- 
poller for years. 



li J AT11AN ROSEBTJRG TANNEHILL, a 

\J prominent fanner and stock raiser of Char 
Al tiers township, and breeder of -Registered 
I -' National Delaine Merino sheep and Regis 
v tered Jersey cattle, was horn October L3, 

is 17, in Chartiers township on the farm where he 
now resides, and in the same house where he and his 
children live and were born. 

His grandparents, John and Catherine Tanne 
hill were natives of County Antrim, Ireland. John 
Tannehill, in company with three brothers — Nathan, 
Adamson and James came from Ireland to this 
country, and were soldiers in the war of the Revo- 
I hi ion. John settled in Washington county and 
here dying was buried in Oak Spring cemeterj in 
Chartiers township. 

Nathan Tannehill, father of Nathan Roseburg 
Tannehill, was born near Miller's run, some two 
and one-half miles from Noblestown, and received 
his education in the common schools of the dis- 
trict. On February '-!C>, 1828, he was married to 
Jane Orr, and April li, following, they moved to the 
old homestead farm in Chartiers township, where 
they passed the remainder of their useful lives, 

and where their children, nine in number, were 
born as follows: Nancy, September 2, L829 (she 
married Robert Sample, and they live in Washing- 
ton, Penn.); Mary Ann, July 27, 1832 (died Octo- 
ber 11, 1833), Jane. January 8, L834 (widow of 
Mosi's McKeag, and residing in Washington, 
Penn.); John Orr, January 25, L836 (married 
Maria Wilson, and they live at West Alexander, 
Donegal township, this county); Mary Ann, May 31, 
1838 (married Robert G. Taylor, and died in 
L876); James. September 24, L840 (resides near 
Canonsburg, Penn.); Nathan R., May L6, 1844 
i.lied November L2, 1844); Nathan R. (subject 
of these lines), and Emeline, June 17, 1850 (she 
died September 15, 1851). The father of this 
family, who was a prominent, man in his township, 
died September IS, I S7S, in the eighty-seventh 

year of his age. the mother following him across 
the dark river .May 2, 1880, when in her seventy- 
fifth year. 

Nathan R. Tannehill was educated in the com- 
mon schools, and graduated from Duff's Business 



College, in Pittsburgh, Penn. He was married No- 
vember 7, 1S77, to Miss Mary C. Sample, who was 
born in West Fililey township, Washington Co., 
Penn., a daughter of Robert and Mary Elizabeth 
(Burns) Sample, both also natives of West Fin- 
ley township. Robert Sample was a son of David 
Sample, who came from County Deny, Ireland, 
and settled in what is now West Finley township, 
this county. Elizabeth (Burns) Sample was a 
daughter of David Burns, who was a son of Robert 
and Catherine (Sutherland) Burns, latter a daugh- 
ter of George Sutherland, and both of whom were 
over seventy years of age at the time of their death. 
Mr. and Mrs. Nathan It. Tannehill after their 
marriage took up their permanent home on the 
farm in Chartiers township, which was willed him 
by his father. They have three children: Robert 
Nathan, born November II, 1880; James Smiley, 
born July -1, 1883, and Newton Alexander, born 
September 23, 1886. The parents are members 
of the Chartiers U. P. Church at Canonsburg. 
Mr. Tannehill is a member of the National Delaine 
Merino Sheep Association, and is recognized as a 
leader among the agriculturists and stock breeders 
of the county. He owns 1S,"> acres of well culti- 
vated land L12 in one tract and seventy-three in 
another. In his political affiliations he is a stanch 
Republican. 



DAVID HIGBEE. The earliest ancestors of 
| the Higbee family in America were two 
I brothers, who left Eugland about 1680, ac- 
companied by an aged father who died on 
the passage. The brothers, with their families, 
settled on Long Island. They had left England 
un account of religious persecution, and they be- 
longed to the class called Puritans or Nonconform- 
ists. Two sons of one of these brothers settled in 
New Jersey, one, named Peter, near New Bruns- 
wick, and the other, whose name was Abijah. near 
Princeton. 

Peter Higbee was born about 1690, and married 
about 1721. He had seven sons and one daughter. 
of whom five sons died early; the surviving sons 
were named Obadiah and Abijah. Obadiah was 
born in 1732, and was married to Anna Brown 
November 13, I Tl'i'J. He settled in New Jersey, 
and, as also his father, was a farmer. He had no 
son old enough to do military duty during the con- 
tinuance of the Revolutionary war, but two young 
men raised by him entered the army and did good 
service, while he acted at times as a courier for the 
Continental armies. In 1784 he sold his farm in 
New Jersey, and moved to Washington county. 
Penn. Wishing to look around before purchasing, 
he rentod from Henry Magner a farm near what is 
now called Finleyville, formerly Rogue Alley. He 
had accepted, in a large measure, Continental 



In 



* 





q/iau& f& ' ck^ce^-^ 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



441 



currency for his New Jersey farm, and this became 
worthless before he purchased, entailing a very 
serious loss, and making it necessary for him to 
rent for some years. Nothing daunted, he perse- 
vered, and in about ten years was able to buy a 
farm in Allegheny county, near Castle Shannon. 

Obadiah and Anna Higbee had eleven children, 
six sons and five daughters, their names and dates 
of birth being as follows: Mary, December 1, lTtil; 
Sarah, February 12, 1707; Abigail. July 1, 1769; 
Stephen, July 5, 1771; Joseph, November 25, 1773; 
Benjamin, April 11, 1776; Rhoda, January I, L779; 
Wiliiam, January 7, 1781; Obadiah, February 1 I, 
L782; Anna, June 1, 1786; Samuel, March 29, 
1791. Of this family all lived to have families 
of their own, except William, who died in his first 
year. Mary and Sarah remained in New Jersey at 
their grandfather's (Mary married Edward liiggs, 
and moved to Allegheny county, Penn., near Li- 
brary; Sarah married Abijah Applegate, and lived 
near Heightstown, N. J. , where numerous descend- 
ants are still to be found); Abigail married Major 
Edward Wright, and settled in Lawrence county, 
Penn., near Mt. Jackson; Stephen settled near 
Warren, Trumbull Co., Ohio; Joseph remained on 
the old homestead, which is still owned by his son 
James; Benjamin settled near Finleyville, Wash- 
ington Co. , Penn., where he died at an advanced 
age, leaving a numerous family (some of his de- 
scendants occupy a part of his old farm yet); 
Rhoda married a Mr. Hull, and settled on the 
Shenango river in Mercer county, Penn. ; Anna mar- 
ried Mr. Fletcher, and settled in southern Ohio; 
Samuel settled in southern Ohio. 

Obadiah Higbee, son of Obadiah and Anna Hig 
bee, married Sarah Phillips, daughter of Joseph 
Phillips Esq., who came from Wales. They set- 
tled in Upper St. Clair township, Allegheny Co., 
Penn., eight miles from Pittsburgh, and they had 
eleven children, five sons and six daughters: (1) 
Jesse, the oldest son, born August 18, 1808, and 
still living in Iowa, had eight children — six living 
and two dead; three live in Iowa, one in Missouri 
and two in Kansas. (2) John, born February 4, 
1810, died in 1832 leaving no family. (3) Joseph 
P., born May 23, 1812, settled on a part of his 
father's farm, which he occupied until his death, 
September 25, 1892; he had four children — one 
son and three daughters; his son John is an active 
partner of the firm of Bryce, Higbee & Co., largely 
engaged in glass manufacturing, Pittsburgh, Penn. ; 
two daughters also survive him: Mrs. Kelso and 
Mrs. Lesnett. (4) Anne Higbee. born August IN, 
1814, married Samuel Blackmore, grandson of 
Samuel Blackmore, one of the pioneer settlers of 
Washington county; one daughter survives them, 
Mrs. Galley. (5) Mary, born August 25, IS Hi, 
married Josiah Phillips, a grandson of Rev. David 
Phillips, the first pastor of Peters Creek Baptist 



Church; Josiah' s death occurred about one year 
after their marriage; one daughter survives him; 
about eight years later the widow married James 
Boyer, a son of one of the pioneers of Washington 
county. (6) Obadiah, born December 21, 1818, 
married Eliza Riggs, and after a short stay in 
Pennsylvania settled on a farm in Iowa, near Iowa 
(it\. where he lived up to within three or four 
years of his death, when lie moved into Iowa City, 
remaining there until his death, which occurred 
March 11. 1890; he had five children: Caroline, D. 
Webster, Sarah, Obadiah F. and Lizzie, all living 
but Caroline. (D. Webster is a prominent lawyer 
of Iowa; Obadiah F. is a physician of more than 
ordinary ability residing at Sliireoaks, Union 
township. Washington Co., Penn.); (7) Sarah, born 
December 10, 1823, married Richard Phillips, and 
they had seven children, viz. : Obadiah H. and Alex- 
ander C. , preachers of the Gospel in the Church of 
Christ; three daughters married, viz. : Mary E. 
Phillips, Sarah A. Wood and Abigail Lightcap, 

and two children deceased, Ettie and . (S) 

Abigail, born May 28, 1 S '-'T. married N. S. Gay. 
of New York, and they live on a plantation in east- 
ern Virginia, near Spottsylvania C. H. ; they have 
three children living and married, viz.: Amy E. 
Pendleton, Sarah H. Wilson and Mary B. Smith; 
two sous are deceased — Obadiah and George. (9) 
Elizabeth, born August 12, 1830, married Hilery 
T. King, of Illinois, near Moro, where they lived 
for some time on a farm, thence removing to Davis 
county, Iowa, where she died October 30, 1886, 
leaving three sons: Obadiah H. , Ulyssus Grant and 
William, the two former being preachers of the 
Gospel. (KM Susannah was born December 20, 
1833, and died in 1835. 

(11) David Higbee was born October 1, 1821. 
His schooling commenced in a log school-house 
furnished with slab benches, and boards resting on 
pins driven into the wall served as writing desks; 
teachers were paid by subscription and boarded 
around among the patrons. He attended public 
school after that system was introduced, also 
Bethel Academy for a time. After teaching school 
a short time, he took charge of his father's farm. 
He lived with and took care of his parents up to 
the time of their death, his mother dying January 
17, 18(55, and his father June 6, 1866. He was 
married November 13, 1851, to Elizabeth, daugh- 
ter of Samuel and Mary Boyer, and they had four 
children: Marv, Sarah, Anna Elizabeth and Oba- 
diah Carson. Of these, Sarah (now Mrs. Scholes) 
and Obadiah Carson are living, the others being 
dead. The mother of these children died July 23, 
1862, and on August 30, 1865, Mr. Higbee was 
married to Lucinda B. Boyer, and removed to 
Peters township, Washington Co., Penn.. March 0, 
1867, where he still lives. By his second wife he 
had six children, all still living, their names in the 



442 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



order of their birth being: Elizabeth B., John 
Newton, Delia L., Ella Dora, Amy V. and David. 
A small part of the early portion of this history is 
traditional, but as Mary Higbee alias Mary Riggs, 
with whom the writer was intimately acquainted, 
lived for some years in the family of her grand- 
father, Peter Higbee, who was a son of one of the 
brothers who came to this country from England, 
it will be seen that the mediums of communica- 
tion are few and direct. The Higbees, especially 
the earlier generations, were tall, active and long- 
lived. Their occupation generally was farming, 
and the majority of them were Baptists. 

The business of the subject of this sketch has 
been farming and stockraising (principally sheep). 
In politics he was first a Whig and Anti-Mason. 
He was a deeply interested observer of the forma- 
tion of the Republican party, attended as a spec- 
tator its first National Convention, approved its 
principles, has given the party his support, and is 
proud of its general record. At the age of seven- 
teen he united with an infant Church of Christ 
(Disciples), now known as the Peters Creek Church 
of Christ, which church had been organized two 
years previous (1830). With six members it met 
in a private house until the fall of 1839, when the 
Church commenced worshiping in a brick meeting- 
house just completed by it. It became necessary 
to rebuild in 1858. With this Church he wor- 
shiped about fifty years, during about forty years 
of which time he was an elder. From 1882 to 
1888 a most determined effort was made to intro- 
duce into this Church what were usually termed 
"progressive views and practices." The effort 
was only too successful. Many were leavened 
with the new doctrines. Those opposed to these 
innovations, as subversive of the faith and practice 
of the Church, became objects of abuse and slan- 
der. Strife ensued. The subject of this sketch 
being an elder, and unyielding in his opposition to 
a new order of things, was particularly the subject 
of these attacks, which resulted in an effort to re- 
move him from the eldership and finally led to the 
withdrawal of himself and family and a number of 
others from the Church. He claims for himself to 

I pen to conviction on every important subject 

coming before him, but nothing but convincing 
evidence will satisfy him. Fidelity to principle, 
pnd a conscientious discharge of duty — these have 
been, in an eminent degree, the characteristics of 
his ancestors, running through five generations up 
to our Puritan ancestry. May we not claim it as 
the potent effect of their transmitted blood? 

If the Higbee family, among the pioneer families 
of this county, with their descendants, have con- 
tributed in any measure in bringing in the present 
advanced, enlightened, civilized and religious state 
of society of which this biographical history is to 
be a record, it is because of deep convictions of 



right, and a courage " to do their duty as they saw 
it." This is the legacy they would leave behind 
them and commend to those coming after. 

[Mr. Higbee has furnished his portrait and biographical 
sketch for insertion in this work on the assurance of 
the biographer that he was selected as one among the 
representative men of Peters township. 



I 



H. DENNISON. Among the progressive 
wide-awake, and prosperous agriculturists 
of Donegal township, the name of this 
gentleman is very prominent. He is a son 
of James S., whose father, Thomas Dennison, was 
a native of Ireland, and was united in marriage 
with a lady of Scotch birth. The young couple 
immigrated to America soon after their marriage, 
locating in the Shenandoah Valley, Va. , and three 
children were born to them, viz. : Maria, wife of 
Washington Bennett, a prominent iron manufact- 
urer, of Wheeling, W. Va. ; Thomas, living in Ohio, 
and James S. , father of our subject. Mr. and 
Mrs. Dennison passed the remainder of their lives 
in Virginia, and died there at an advanced age. 

James S. Dennison was born in 1801, in the 
Shenandoah Valley, Va., and there received his 
early training in farm work, obtaining an educa- 
tion, which, though of the usual primitive log- 
cabin type, afforded a basis for the general infor- 
mation and practical knowledge of his riper years. 
When a young man he came to Washington county, 
Penn., locating in Claysville, where he became 
acquainted with, and was married to Mrs. Catherine 
(Stevenson) King, widow of William King. By 
her first marriage Mrs. King had one son, W. C. 
(now cashier of the National Bank of Claysville, 
Penn). She was born in 1803, and was the 
daughter of Hon. James Stevenson, a member of 
one of the oldest and best families of Washington 
county. He was a prominent pioneer settler of 
Donegal township, and a soldier in the war of the 
Revolution. He died in Harrisburg, Penn., while 
a member of the Legislature. To Mr. and Mrs. James 
S. Dennison were born the following children: 
James (living in Claysville, Washington Co., Penn. ). 
Jane E., John (a saddler and harness-maker, now 
farming in Warren county, 111.), Eldridge (residing 
in Claysville) and E. H. Mr. Dennison resided a 
short time after his marriage on the farm now 
owned by his son E. H. He afterward began the 
hotel business in Claysville, thence moving to 
Uniontown, Fayette Co., Penn., where he was 
engaged in business until his tragic death in 1851. 
This sad event occurred when on a business trip 
to Brownsville. He was thrown from the stage upon 
which he was riding, receiving injuries which soon 
resulted fatally. Politically he was a Democrat, 
but not an active politician, and was respected by 
all who knew him. After the death of her husband, 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



443 



Mrs. Dennison returned to Donegal township, 
Washington county, and located on the "Old 
Stevenson" tract, lying one mile west of Claysville, 
which was part of a vast amount of land once 
owned by Hon. James Stevenson. Mrs. Dennison 
was a consistent member of the Presbyterian 
Church for many years, and was a very popular 
lady. She continued to reside on the farm until 
her death, which occurred October 7, 1889. 

E. H. Dennison was born July 4, 1840, in Done- 
gal township, in the same house which is his 
present home, and received a common-school edu- 
cation. His father died when he was a mere boy, 
but this event did not impede his progress in life, 
for the instructions of his mother almost compen- 
sated for the loss of the father. In 1808 he was 
united in marriage with Salena Reed, who was 
born January 5, 1845, daughter of Rev. William 
Reed, D. D., an eminent Presbyterian divine of 
western Ohio. The following children were born 
to this union: Katherine, Edith, Joseph D., Harry 
( '.. William R. and Edwin H., all of whom are 
living with their parents, the eldest daughter being 
employed as a stenographer in Washington, Penn. 
Mr. Dennison has always lived on the place of his 
birth, which is situated one mile west of Claysville, 
along the National Pike, and is an exceptionally 
desirable location. He is a farmer and is exten- 
sively engaged in stock dealing, having made a 
success of the latter business by shrewd and skilful 
management, combined with fair and honest deal- 
ing. Much credit is due to this enterprising and 
public-spirited citizen for the success with which 
he has conducted both his own affairs, and the 
business which others have intrusted to his care. 
Mr. Dennison is ever interested in any movement 
tending to advance the interests of the community, 
and in politics is a Democrat. He and his wife, a 
deservedly popular lady, are members of the Pres- 
byterian Church. 



cember 24, 1814. Mr. Chester affiliated with the 
Whig and Republican parties, and served in many 
local offices. Mrs. Chester died November 8, 1872, 
leaving the following children: Joseph W. (who 
died in 1873 in Vernon county, Mo.), John A. 
(living in Moundville, Vernon Co., Mo.), Elizabeth 
Ann (deceased at the age of eight .years), J. J. 
(born July 3, 1847), James Harvey (deceased in 
1875, in Allen township), Margaret Ann (deceased 
wife of Irvin McKenna, of Fayette City), Jane A. 
(deceased wife of Allen Ailes, of Columbus, Kans.) 
S. T. (whose name opens this sketch) and Fremont, 
(born July 4, 1857, died February 20, 1865). Af- 
ter the mother of these children died, S. A. Ches- 
ter married Mary Stevenson, who is now living in 
Fayette county, Penn. He died March 15, 1888. 
S. T. Chester was born March 8, 1853, in Allen 
township, Washington county, and has continued 
to reside on the old place. In June, 1879, he made 
choice of a life companion in the person of Ollie J. 
daughter of O. D. and Mary (Allen) Latta, all of 
whom were natives of Allen township, this county, 
where the father cjiecl, Mrs. Latta making her 
home with Mrs. Chester. Mr. and Mrs. Chester 
have always resided on the homestead, which con- 
tains 177 acres of well-cultivated land, equipped 
with two substantial brick edifices. He has made 
a specialty of raising blooded stock, having a num- 
ber of fine driving and draft horses of Clyde, Nor- 
man and Ethan Allen breed, also a fine grade 
of Alderney and Shorthorn cattle. In political 
opinions he advocates the principles embodied in 
the Republican platform. Mrs. Chester is a mem- 
ber of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Mount 
Tabor, and the sympathies of Mr. Chester are the 
same. They have four children, namely : Charley 
L., Montie Ray, Harry and Ralph. 



T. CHESTER. Among the prominent agri- 
culturists of Allen township, none are more 
deserving of special mention than the pros- 
perous gentleman whose name has from an 
early time been associated with the best interests 
of Washington county. 

Many years ago Joseph and Elizabeth Chester, 
natives of eastern Pennsylvania, came to Washing- 
ton county, and there made a home on a tract of 
land which he patented. Among the children born 
to this pioneer couple, one son is named S. A., 
whose brothers were Morrison, now residing in 
Guernsey county, Ohio, and Benjamin, who died 
in California. S. A. Chester was born August 18, 
1818, on the home place in Allen township, Wash- 
ington county. He was there married to Margaret 
Jackman, who was born on the home farm De- 



/ 



Hi UGH M. GLASS is one of the most enter- 
prising and prosperous young agriculturists 
of Robinson township, and is, as are so 
many of our thrifty and successful citizens, 
a descendant of Irish ancestors. His grand- 
father Samuel Glass, came from Ireland and settled 
in Allegheny county, Penn., where he was soon 
afterward united in marriage with a Miss Stewart, 
of the same place, who bore him eight children, 
four of whom are now living, namely: William, 
Hannah (Mrs. Stewart), Elizabeth (Mrs. Cubbage) 
and Sarah Ann (Mrs. Logan). 

William Glass was born November 9, 1811, in 
Allegheny county, Penn., growing to manhood on 
the home place. He was then married to Miss 
Sarah McCurdy, who was born in the year 1817, 
also a native of Allegheny county, and daughter of 
Andrew McCurdy, a prominent farmer of that 
vicinity. To William and Sarah (McCurdy) Glass, 
nine children were born, of whom are now living: 



444 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Elizabeth (Mrs. Spears), Samuel S., Hugh M., 
Letitia J. (Mrs. McCormick), Rocsa Leuia and 
Emma Leah. Mr. Glass has owned 340 acres of 
land, but since becoming advanced in years has 
disposed of the greater part of his real estate, 
having retained a farm of ninety-six acres upon 
which he is now residing. He has been a member 
of Session of the U. P. Church for forty years. In 
politics he was formerly a Democrat, then joined 
the Know-nothing party, finally becoming a Re- 
publican, being now identified with the latter 
party. He has served in various capacities, having 
been tax-collector over twenty years, and school 
director forty years. 

Hugh M. Glass was born April 8, 1843, and 
passed his youth in attending the common schools 
of the home neighborhood. On December 30, 1863, 
he entered the army, enlisting in Young's Inde- 
pendent Battery, where he remained until the 
summer of 1865, then receiving his discharge from 
the hospital by the War Department. After the 
war he returned to Allegheny county, and on 
December 9, 1869, was united in marriage with 
Miss Evaliue Scott. Mr. and Mrs. Glass lived on a 
part of the old place for twenty years after their 
marriage. They then purchased 170 acres of good 
land in Washington county, Penn., where they are 
now living. Their children are Albert P., born 
September 26, 1870; Samuel J., born March 1, 
1873; William H, born June 10, 1877; Robert J., 
born September 20, 1881, and Sarah E., born 
March 31, 1884. Mr. Glass votes the Republican 
ticket, and in church connection is a member of the 
Robinson United Presbyterian Church, of which he 
is treasurer. 




RS. BYRON PAINTER. Thomas Stock- 
ton died at Mercersburg, Penn., May 31, 
1795, aged about eighty six years. He 
had lived near Chambersburg with his 
son Robert, and was an elder in the 
Presbyterian Church. In his will he mentions his 
children: Thomas, John, David and Robert, 
Elizabeth Waddell, Isabella Neilson, Mary Bard 
and Margaret Johnson. 

Robert Stockton, his son, was born in 1737, and 
was married in 1701 to Mary Makemie. He was 
an elder in the Presbyterian Church at Rocky 
Spring, near Chambersburg, Penn., and served 
in the Revolutionary war with a company formed 
from that church, with their pastor, the Rev. John 
Craighead. After the war, in 1784, he emigrated 
to Washington, Penn., and in July purchased 340 
acres of land of Peter Jolly, named in the survey 
"Beaver Dam." It is situated in Franklin town- 
ship, three and one-half miles west of Washington, 
and still occupied by his descendants. He was 
one of the four elders of the Presbyterian Church 



when organized, and the first delegate to the Pres- 
byterian at old Redstone. His children were 
Thomas, married to Sarah Graham; Margaret, 
married to Col. John Cotton; Francis, married to 
Charles Stewart; Jane, married to Rev. John 
Brice; Col. Robert, married to Miss Gallion; John, 
married to Margaret McCombs; Rev. Joseph, 
married to Esther Clark, and Elizabeth, married 
to Rev. James Cunningham. 

• In colonial times, about the middle of the 
eighteenth century, when the country about the 
base of the Kittatinny Mountains was yet a 
primeval forest, James Clark, from the North of 
Ireland, took up a tract of 220 acres of Government 
land, to which he gave the appropriate name of 
"Clark's Fancy," in accordance with a custom of 
the times. This tract embraced the land upon 
which the town of Upper Strasburg was subse- 
quently built. In 1787 he received a patent for 
his lauds. from the Supreme Executive Council of 
Pennsylvania, in which it is described under the 
title already specified. In 1787 the State madi> a 
public road over the mountain through "Clark's 
Gap," and some of the broad stones with which it 
was built are yet visible below the mountain near 
Strasburg. Clark sold part of his tract to Dewalt 
Keefer, by whom the town of Strasburg was laid 
out in 1789. James Clark came to America with 
his brother Thomas, who settled in one of the 
Southern States (probably Georgia), and Mrs. 
Myra Clark Gaines was a descendant of Thomas. 
James Clark purchased a large tract of land near 
where the city of Harrisburg now stands, after he 
arrived in this country. Here he settled and 
married a Miss Nancy Reed, of Lancaster, Penn. 
Afterward he settled at " Clark's Fancy," then 
purchased a large tract of valuable land lying 
south of the town of Mercersburg, where he died. 
He was buried in the Slate Hill cemetery, located 
about a mile east of Mercersburg, a short distance 
from the turnpike. In 1789 this pioneer visited 
Washington, Penn., and purchased a 400-acre 
tract styled the "Big Level," a 300-acre tract at 
Candor, and in Canton township and Clark's 
Mills, for his children. David married Hannah 
Baird; Thomas married Jane Caldwell; John mar- 
ried Miss McDowell, and all settled in Washing 
ton county. James married Mary Murry, and 
remained on the home farm at Mercersburg. 




=* OBERT WYLIE (or better known as "Bob 
^/y Wylie, the wool buyer"), the subject of this 



'Bob 

lis 
sketch, is of Scotch-Irish descent. His an- 
cestors were known as leaders in the ref- 
ormation of the Church of Scotland, and 
several of them were banished from Scotland and 
Ireland for their adherence to the principles of 
the new Church. His grandfather, Robert Wylie, 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



447 



was born in County Antrim, Ireland, in 1743, and 
came to America with several of his half-brothers 
about 1761. They first stopped in the east, and 
further west, at Thompsontown, on the Juniata 
river, he married, about the close of war of the 
Revolution, Jane Thompson, daughter of John 
Thompson, and sister to Col. William Thompson 
and Capt. Isaac Thompson, of the Revolutionary 
army. 

About 1780, with his wife, he came west to 
Washington county, and took up a tract of 600 
acres of land (the main body of which is now 
owned and occupied by the four sons of the late 
David McClay, of Canton township), and on this 
land he built a log house in which he lived for 
some years, or until about 1800, when be put up 
the stone house which still stands, and is the pres- 
ent dwelling of Samuel McClay. Through this 
farm was the main Indian trail from the west to 
the dwelling of the great Chief Catfish, whose 
cabin stood on the bank of Catfish creek, at the 
foot of what is now Main street in Washington. 
(A chief watering place was a spring on this farm, 
where the wandering Indian always stopped to 
quench his thirst). He built a trade mill and dis- 
tillery, thus opening a market for the grain 
raised in the neighborhood ; he was also 
largely interested in salting pork for many years; 
later he started a wagon train, hauling products 
east, principally to Baltimore. He was a member 
of the Associate Reformed Church, and for many 
years an elder in the church at North Buffalo. In 
the burying ground around this old church his 
and his wife'B remains lie at rest. Their family 
consisted of three sons — Robert, William and 
John — and five daughters — Ann (Brownlee), Jane 
(Humphreys), Sarah (Hodgens), Elizabeth (Moore) 
and Mary (Crotheis). Many of the descendants 
of his daughters reside in Washington county and 
eastern Ohio. John Wylie married and settled in 
Ohio, where he became a successful stock dealer 
and farmer; William and Robert remained at home 
until 1834, when William sold his interest in the 
home farm to Robert; later, Robert sold the farm 
to David McClay and Bros., and soon followed his 
old partner in business, John Garrett (they having 
been associated together for several years in a 
store at West Middletown), to Baltimore, Md., 
where he acquired a considerable fortune. He died 
in 1N72, unmarried. 

William Wylie, father of Robert Wylie, Jr., 
was born on the old Wylie farm, September 25, 
1800, and received a good education, having at- 
tended Washington College several terms. In 
1820 he was married to Mary, daughter of James 
Clark, of Hopewell township, and after marriage 
he remained on the home farm four years, having 
in the meantime built a frame residence a short 
distance from the old stone house. In 1834, three 



years after the death of his father, he moved to 
the Razor Town farm of 210 acres, which he had 
purchased a year or two before. Razor Town, 
from which the farm took its name, was a village 
of twenty-six houses and cabins, with one good- 
sized tavern having a dozen rooms, and a blacksmith 
shop, race-course, etc. This point was known as a 
horse-trading post, and from the fact that many 
sharp deals were made there the place took the name 
of "Razor Town." William, thinking that creditable 
neighbors could not dwell in such houses, immedi- 
ately set about to remove them, and in a few years 
the little town passed out of existence. On the 
spot where the old tavern stood he put up a set of 
weigh scales, which continued in use until 1878; 
he built the present farm house, and occupied it 
until his death in 1877. His occupation was that 
of a farmer, and for many years he killed and 
salted about 1,000 hogs annually at his home. He 
was also. a stock dealer (buying stock in West 
Virginia and Ohio), driving it east to Philadelphia 
and New York, and strange to say he never made 
but one trip over the mountains with his stock, as he 
trusted them to employes until his son Robert was 
old enough to take charge of them, which he did 
at a very early age. In partnership with his 
brother-in-law, David Clark, he owned and kept a 
general store for fifteen years in what is now known 
as the "Howe building" on Main street, Wash- 
ington, between Chestnut and Beau streets. He 
hoped to make a store keeper of his son Robert, 
but the latter strongly objected to being tied down 
so closely to business. He sold the store in about 
1849. He also dealt in wool, and in 1845 he built 
the frame warehouse on West Chestnut street, 
which is now occupied by R. Wylie & Sons, in the 
same business. William Wylie was a member of 
church for fifty years, first at North Buffalo and 
then at Washington, and was one of the organizers 
of the U. P. Church at Washington, of which he 
was a member. In politics he was originally a 
Whig, afterward a Republican. He was never an 
aspirant for office, but nevertheless was recognized 
as one of the best posted men of his time in matters 
political, and always took an active part in the 
issues of the day. His hospitality was widely 
known, and his table never wanted for guests. 
His rifle shooting was the one thing upon which 
he prided himself, and stories of putting three out 
of five bullets in a cap box (about two inches in 
diameter) with his old squirrel rifle, at one hun- 
dred yards distance, off-hand, are familiar ones to 
his grandsons and nephews. The children of 
William and Mary (Clark) Wylie were Robert; 
Jane (Beall), wife of John Strieker Beall, banker 
of Wellsburg, W. Va. ; Mrs. Annie E. Thompson, 
living in Washington, widow of Rev. Joseph R. 
Thompson, late of the Associate Reformed Church; 
and James Clark, whodied at the age of twentyyears. 



448 



WASHINGTON COUNTS. 



Robert Wylie, the subject proper of this narra- 
tive, was born August 25, 1830, on the old Wylie 
farm in Canton township, Washington Co., Penn. 
He attended the district schools, and later took an 
irregular course at Washington College. He was 
not ;i rugged boy, and could not stand close con- 
finement at school, so he early took to the roads 
where he might breathe a more free air. At the 
age of thirteen years his father intrusted to his 
care a drove of cattle and shoep to be driven across 
the mountains and sold in Philadelphia, the money 
to be brought back by him in saddle-bags on horse- 
back. Ho liked this business better than going to 
school or staying in the store, so he continued at 
same for some years, at first driving to Philadel- 
phia and New York, later to Harrisburg. When 
the Pennsylvania Railroad was being finished to 
Pittsburgh, he early took advantage of this means 
of transport, being one of the first shippers on the 
road passing over the nine inclines thraugh the 
Alleghany mountains. In ISO 1 he moved with 
his wife and family to a farm in Cumberland town- 
ship, Greene Co., Penn., where they resided until 
1805, when he purchased the Dr. Stevens farm in 
Canton township (340 acres), situated two miles 
west of Washington on the Taylorstown road, upon 
which he erected all the buildings which now 
stand upon it. He now resides there, surrounded 
by his children and grandchildren. With farming 
he combined the wool commission business, in 
which connection he is probably best known, his 
figure being a familiar one in his own and adjoin- 
ing counties — in fact, to the people within a radius 
of fifty miles of his home his is a well-known, 
welcome face. His two sons, William and James 
B., became associated with him in business some 
four years since, the firm name being Robert 
Wylie & Sons, and the amouut of wool bought and 
handled by them runs well toward a million pounds 
annually, the bulk of it being bought by the senior 
member of the firm, who gives to this branch of 
the business the greater part of his time. He is 
now sixty-two years of age, but looks younger, and 
is yet in the prime of life. In his rides through 
the country he fears no kind of weather or roads, 
nor does the worst seem to affect his iron consti- 
tution. 

On February 3, 1857, he married Elizabeth, 
daughter of James and Mary McCormick Bead, of 
Independence township. James Beall was a farmer 
and storekeeper in Wellsburg, \V. Ya. .for some 
years, and before the time of railroads he rode to 
Philadelphia on horseback to purchase dry goods. 
His wife's father, who was also a merchant, lost his 
life in one of his trips to New Orleans, whither he 
was traveling to buy sugar, having, while en route 
overland on horseback, been murdered in Ken- 
tucky, supposedly for the money on his person, 
having a considerable amount at the time. The 



Beads were among the early settlers of Baltimore 
county, Md., and Mrs. Wylie's grandfather and 
grandmother Beall both came from Baltimore; her 
grandfather was a soldier in the early war, and 
his wife was a sister of Gen. Strieker, who so ably 
defended Baltimore against the British in 1814. 
They came West about 178-, and purchased a 
farm on the edge of West Virginia, near Inde- 
pendence, Washington county, where they raised 
a large family, whose descendants are now widely 
scattered both east and west, though many of 
them are in Washington county, W. Va., and east- 
ern Ohio. A brief record of the children of Robert 
and Elizabeth (Beall) Wylie is as follows: 

William Wylie, born November 10, 1859, 
in Canton township, Washington Co., Penn., 
up to the age of fourteen years attended the 
common schools of his district, and then went 
to Washington and Jefferson College, where be 
remained four years. Returning home he en- 
gaged in the wool business with his father, and 
at the age of nineteen entered the Iron City 
Business College at Pittsburgh, Penn., where 
he graduated. He then embarked in the wool 
and farm implement business with his father, 
which they carried on for three years, when his 
younger brother James B. entered the business 
with them. They then abandoned the farm imple- 
ment branch of their business, and have since been 
engaged exclusively in the wool business, which 
they have greatly enlarged, having extended their 
operations over a half dozen of the adjoining 
counties. They do business under the firm name 
of R. Wylie & Sons, and they are among the 
heaviest wool dealers in western Pennsylvania, 
enjoying the confidence of the people far and 
wide, to which their proverbial fair dealing justly 
entitles them. On June l(i, 18S5, William Wylie 
was married to Mary W., daughter of Joseph C. 
Gist, of Brooke county, W. Ya., and they have 
been blessed with two children: Lizzie B. born 
October fi, 1887, and Clara V. born November 21, 
1891. After marriage Mr. Wylie settled on his 
farm in Canton township, two miles west of Wash- 
ington, Penn., where he still lives. He is a mem- 
ber <>f the U. P. Church at Washington; and in 
politics is a Republican. 

Mrs. William Wylie was born August '11. 1861, 
in Brooke county, W. Va. Her father, J. C. Gist, 
was born March 16, 1820, in the same county. He 
was a large farmer and was engaged in the breed- 
ing and sale of fine sheep all his life. He was a 
Republican, and served one term in the West Vir- 
ginia Legislature; was in the Senate in 1861, at 
the time of the war, one term. He was also talked 
of for governor of his State at one time, but for 
some reason best known to himself he did not run, 
although his friends assured him he would wiu. 
He died November 22, 1892. On August 10, 1848, 



WASIf/MirnN CUUXTY. 



4 19 



J. C. Gist married Elizabeth Culver, of Jefferson, 
Penn., born February 12, 1826, at Jefferson, 
Greene Co., Penn., daughter of Thomas Culver, a 
farmer. Mrs. William Wylie lias three brothers 
and one sister living: Samuel C. Gist, J. W. Gist, 
and J. C. Gist, Jr., all living in Brooke county, 
W. Va. , and Mrs. John C. Itoseborough, of Brown- 
wood, Tex. Mrs. Wylie's great uncle, Christer- 
phor Gist, was a member of Geu. George Wash 
ington's staff in the Revolutionary war. 

James Beall Wylie, second son of Robert and 
Elizabeth (Beall) Wylie, born September 24, 18(52, 
married June 24, 1890, Helen Cornelia, daughter 
(if William D. and Elizabeth (Williamson) Rose- 
borough, of Sardis, Miss. William Roseborough 
was a cotton planter, as were his father and grand 
father before him; they were formerly of South 
Carolina. Her grandfather lived in Chester, S. C, 
and was clerk of the courts for fifty-two years; his 
wife, Eleanor (Key), was a daughter of Martin and 
Nancy ( Bibb) Key, of Albemarle county, Va. ; her 
great-grandparents came from Ireland to South 
Carolina about the time of the Revolution, and 
their families were both of French Huguenot ances 
try, who left France about the middle of the 
seventeenth century; her great-grandmother Rose 
borough's maiden name was Gaston, and she 
was a daughter of William Gaston, of Cloughwate, 
Ireland, who was a grandson of the Duke of Or- 
leans (the leader of the Huguenots, banished from 
France in 1042; some history says 1652), brother 
of Louis XIII and son of Henry IV, King of 
France and Navarre. J. B. and Helen R. Wylie have 
one child, a daughter, named Marion Marguerite 
Wylie, born May 14, 1891. Their home is in 
Canton township. 

Laura Virginia, the only daughter of Robert and 
Elizabeth (Beall) Wylie, was born October 7, 1867, 
and was married October 1, 1890, to Joseph C. 
Gist, Jr., son of Hon. J. C. Gist, of Brooke county, 
W. Va., where they now reside. They have one 
child, a son, born June 11, 1892, named for his 
grandfather, Robert Wylie. 



w 



1 "VJLLIAM KNOX, a progressive and sue 
f l\#/ ce8s f u l farmer and business man of Buf- 
V/ Ml ^° t- own8 hip> is a son of John Knox, an 
early settler in the county, whose father, 
Thomas Knox, was born in County Antrim, Ireland, 
and came in 1811 to Washington county, with his 
wife, and died there at the age of eighty-five years. 
John Knox was born in 1777, in County Antrim, 
Ireland, whence, in 1811 he emigrated to the shores 
of Columbia, landing at New York. After about two 
years, moving from place to place and prospecting, 
he settled in Washington county, Penn., in 1813, 
where he purchased 110 acres of land at $10 per 
acre, having ten years in which to pay the amount. 



This tract was then nearly all wildwood, but, night 
ami day the ringing blows of the woodsman's mer 
ciless axe might be heard felling the giant mon 
archs of the forest, clearing the way for the van of 
civilization's mighty army. Thus by toil, energy, 
judicious economy and good management, in course 
of time the stern and uninviting haunts of the Red- 
man, and the savage wolves, were made to "blossom 
as the rose," and smile with radiant meadows ripe 
with corn. To day for beauty and fertility, this 
farm is second to none in Washington county. Mr. 
Knox, before leaving the "Green Isle of Erin," had 
married Margaret .McKay, a lady of Scottish birth, 
and in the round-log cabin on their American home- 
stead were born to them the following children: 
Jennie (wife of Dr. Milliken), residing in Texas; 
Nancy (deceased wife of Alexander Gabby); Thomas, 
now a resident of Kansas: Robert (deceased); .lane 
(deceased wife of Jacob Alter); Elizabeth (deceased 
wife of John Danley); William (subject); John, 
residing in Claysville, Washington county, and 
Margaret (Mrs. George Smith), in Buffalo town 
ship. The mother was gathered in by the "Grim 
Reaper" in 1837, when she was forty-seven years 
old, and the father in the spring of L866. They 
were faithful, God fearing members of the United 
Presbyterian Church, and in politics Mr. Knox was 
an uncompromising Democrat, his first vote in the 
land of his adoption being cast for Andrew Jack- 
son. 

William Knox was born April 29, 1827, in Buf- 
falo township, this county, and here he was reared 
to practical farm life, which was relieved by occa- 
sional attendance at the schools of the locality, 
which education he supplemented with a consider- 
able amount of reading and home study. I n Oo- 
tober, 1856, he was married to Wilhelmina Maloy, 
a native of Lewistown, Penn., and their union has 
been blessed with the following named children: 
Margaret Jane (now the wife of Thomas Caldwell, 
of Washington county), John (living at home), 
William (dead), Minnie (now the wife of William 
Ellwood), in Franklin township, Robert Welch (a 
student at Washington and Jefferson College), 
Mary Jeanette, Annie Elizabeth and Thomas Ed 
ward, all at home. On October 13, 1876, the mother 
departed this life in her thirty sixth year. After 
his marriage Mr. Knox took charge of his father's 
estate, which he successfully conducted for several 
years, his home being a log house which is still 
standing. There he lived until 1875, in which 
year he erected his present handsome and commo 
dioUS residence, ami moved into it. In fact, he 
has put up all the new buildings on tin* property, 
ami made many other substantial improvements. 
As a result of thrift, enterprise and good manage- 
ment, Mr. Knox i* now the owner of six farms, 
aggregating 800 acres of prime land, in which have 
been sunk as many as forty oil wells. In addition 



450 



WASHING TON CO UN T ) '. 



to general fanning he is an extensive stockman and 
grower of tine wool. He and the family are mem- 
bers of the United Presbyterian Church, and in his 
political views Mr. Knox is a supporter of Protec- 
tion at Presidential elections, but at other times he 
casts his vote for the candidate he deems best 
fitted for the office, regardless of party interests. 



DAVID CKAFT, prominent in Morris town- 
| ship, was born in Washington county, 
' September 9, 1824. His father, William 
Craft, was a grandson of John Craft, of 
whom mention is made in connection with the his- 
tory of the Craft family in the sketch of William 
E. Craft. 

William Craft, born 1789, was the eldest of four 
sons born to Lawrence Craft. He married, in 1811, 
Mary Elliot, born in 1794, a daughter of William 
Elliot, of Morris township. They became the 
parents of eleven children as follows: Betsey, Law- 
rence, Annie, William E., Martha, Malinda, Jane, 
David, George W., Mary and Isaac. W r illiam died 
in 1856, and his wife in 1871. David Craft, the 
subject of this sketch, was reared on the farm and 
spent his boyhood in attending the district school 
and assisting with the farm work. His education 
was thus necessarily limited, though it has been 
greatly improved by reading and observation. He 
married, in 1861, Sarah Lindley, a daughter of 
Zebulon Lindley, of Morris township, born Sep- 
tember 26, 1837. Their union has been blessed 
with eight children, as follows: Flora J., wife of 
J. N. Winget, of Pittsburgh; William L., at home; 
Mary H. , wife of S. J. Bell, of Claysville; Homer 
L., Lillie M. , Maurice D:, Lizzie S., and Forest 
Z., all at home. Mr. Craft is one of the influen- 
tial and prosperous farmers of his township. In 
politics he has always been a stanch Democrat. 
Both he and his wife are members of Mt. Zion 
M. E. Church. 



If ¥ ARMON H. RAINEY was born March 14, 
IJ 1841, in Somerset township, Washington 
Co., Perm. His paternal grandparents were 
\\ — natives of Ireland, coining to this country 
at an early day, where James Rainey fol- 
lowed farming, and served several years as justice 
of the peace. 

James Rainey., son of James, was born Septem- 
ber 3, 1803, on the farm now owned by heirs of 
James Rainey. At the age of nineteen years the 
former learned the tanner's trade, but followed it 
only a short time. In 1836 he was united in mar- 
riage with Jane Thomas, who was born November 
11. 1811, in Nottingham township. Their children 
were Lydia A. (Mrs. Dabout), Sarah E. (Mrs. 
Hyde), Mary J. (wife of William McGregor), 



Harmon H. and one deceased. The father owned 
and managed a large stock-farm containing 222 
acres of laud. He died in September, 1875. 
Mrs. Rainey passed away August 11, 1890. 

Harmon H. Rainey passed his youth on his 
father's farm, attending the schools of Somerset 
township, this county. On October 10, 1872, he 
was married to Lucy B. Hixou, daughter of Capt. 
James Hixon, of North Strabane township. They 
have a son and daughter: James H. and Retta A. 
The father lives on and owns the home place, and 
devotes his principal attention to raising sheep. 
He is an advocate of the principles embodied in 
the Democratic party. For fifteen years he has 
been school director, and recently was given a new 
lease of this office. In religion Mr. and Mrs. 
Rainey are members of the United Presbyterian 
Church. H. H. Rainey also served as one of the 
managers of the Morganza Reform School for four 
years, under appointment by Gov. Pattison. 



Ei D WARD G. CUNDALL, of the firm of E. 
G. Cundall & Sons, dealers in clothing and 
gents' furnishings, Washington, was born 
November 7, 1832, in what is now Canton 
township (then part of Chartiers), Washington Co., 
Penn. His father, also named Edward G., was 
born in 1791, in Rhode Island, where he was mar- 
ried to Patience R. Bailey, of Newport, that State, 
who bore him eight children, of whom three are 
yet living, viz. : Mrs. Mary E. Mcllroy, of Wash- 
ington, who has been a widow since 1854; Emily 
M. , wife of S. P. Morgan, residence, Jefferson 
avenue, Washington; and Edward G. One daugh- 
ter (now deceased) was married to R. W. Miller, 
who recently died. Mr. Cundall, Sr. , came to 
Washington county, bringing his wife nnd two 
children, and purchased property in Cross Creek 
township, whence after a time they moved to 
Chartiers township. In April, 1865, they came to 
Washington, where the father died December 1. 
1866, aged seventy-four years; the mother passed 
away in 1881 at the age of eighty-two. 

The early life of our subject was passed on the 
old homestead in Canton township, his education 
being received at the common schools of the dis- 
trict. In 1866 he removed to South Strabane 
township, and in 1870 to Buffalo township, where 
In November, 1891, he purchased 
gents' furnishing business of W. 
now has an extensive trade, his 
place being one of the best known in that line in 
the city. On October 5, 1854, Mr. Cundall was 
united in marriage with Miss Martha W., daughter 
of W. H. Cook, of Canton township, and to this 
union five children were born, viz. : Maggie K.. 
wife of Deforest Wilson, of Taylorstown; Emma 
J., wife of William McManus, of Taylorstown; 



he owns a farm. 
the clothing and 
C. Baldwin, and 















ojt- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



453 



W. G. , on a farm in Buffalo township, married to a 
daughter of Thomas Clark, of Chartiers township; 
Edward M., a dentist in Washington, and W. Harry, 
with his father in the store. On December 10, 
1889, the mother died at the age of fifty-six years. 
Politically Mr. Cundall is a Republican, and he 
has served as school director in Canton township. 
On April 2, 1877, he was appointed superintendent, 
secretary and treasurer of the County Home, in 
which position he served fourteen consecutive years, 
when he resigned. 




l\ILLIAM BRIMNER, proprietor of one of 
the oldest business houses in Burgetts- 
town, is of Scotch descent. William 
Brimner (the grandfather) was born and 
reared in the Highlands of Scotland. When a lad 
of but twelve years he resolved to see for himself 
the wonderful country of which so many exciting 
tales were told, and escaping from his friends em- 
barked on an American-bound sailing vessel. He 
landed in New York, and came immediately to 
Berks county, Penn., there passing his youth in 
agricultural pursuits. In early manhood he was 
married to Elizabeth Burnett, a Quaker lady of the 
same county. They soon afterward moved to west- 
ern Pennsylvania, carrying all their worldly pos- 
sessions on pack-horses. He first settled in Han- 
over township, this county, and purchased the land 
patented by Mr. Bavington. At that time the 
tract was covered by forests, and the young pioneer 
was compelled to clear a space for the log cabin, 
which was then erected. The cooking was all done 
in one frying pan, and the other household uten- 
sils were similarly utilized as necessity required. 
But time brought conveniences within their reach, 
and ere many years the rude homes of the fron- 
tiersmen were adorned with many of the comforts 
though but few of the luxuries, of our modern life. 
Children came to bless the home of William and 
Elizabeth Brimner, and were named as follows: 
John, Mary A. (Mrs. Hugh Barton), Robert and 
James. In politics the father was an active work- 
er of the Democratic party, holding various town- 
ship offices. In religion he was one of the first 
members of the Cross Roads Presbyterian Church, 
now called the Florence Presbyterian Church. He 
died in his ninety-second year, in 1850, on the place 
where he first located, and his wife passed to her 
rest in her eighty-ninth year. 

James Brimner, father of the subject of this 
sketch, was born in 1800, on the home farm in 
Hanover township, this county, receiving a meager 
education in the rude log-cabin school-house erected 
in the heart of the mighty forest, and furnished 
with slab seats, paper windows and puncheon 
floor. Much of his boyhood was passed in farm 
duties, and on March 10, 1832, he was united in 



marriage with Martha, daughter of William Dun- 
bar. After their marriage the young people set- 
tled on the home farm, where children were born 
and reared as follows: Mary (wife of Samuel 
Scroggs, Lenox, Iowa), William, Thomas (residing 
in Hanover township, this county), Eliza J. (Mrs. 
James Russell), James (living in Robinson town- 
ship, this county) and Rebecca S. (Mrs. J. J. 
Campbell, of Wilkinsburgh, Penn.). Politically 
Mr. Brimner was a Jacksonian Democrat, and he 
was a prominent, enterprising citizen. He served 
for years as a trustee of schools. He was a mem- 
ber of the Florence Presbyterian Church, giving 
that body a liberal support. He died in 1848, and 
in 1883 Mrs. Brimner was laid to rest by the side 
of her husband in the Florence cemetery. 

William Brimner, son of James and Martha 
(Dunbar) Brimner, was born November 12, 1836, 
in Hanover township, on the old homestead of his 
grandfather, and passed his boyhood on the farm, 
receiving a common-school education. After the 
death of his father he assumed the management of 
the home place, having since that time won success 
by his own efforts. On November 15, 1860, he 
married Susan, daughter of James Aiken, of Law- 
rence county, Penn. They have three children, 
namely: Ethie (Mrs. J. A. McKeown), Thomas R. 
(electrical engineer in Philadelphia) and W. F. 
(a book-keeper at Pittsburgh, Penn.). In 1875 Mr. 
Brimner became engaged in the mercantile busi- 
ness in Burgettstown, where he is still one of the 
leading business men. In church connection he is 
a Presbyterian. 



JS. ESPEY. The Espey family were origi- 
nally natives of Scotland, the pioneer settlers 
of the name having emigrated to America 
about the time of the Revolution, settling in 
Pennsylvania. 

James Espey, grandfather of the subject of this 
sketch, was born, iu 1780, in Allegheny county. 
Penn., and was married to Jane Fife, who was 
born September 18, 1782, in the same county. 
The young people settled iu Upper St. Clair town- 
ship, and always remained in their native county. 
James Espey was an active politician, and served 
'as postmaster at Upper St. Clair, also as a justice 
of the peace. At the time of his death, which 
occurred in 1853, he was a member of the U. P. 
Church at St. Clair; his wife passed from earth in 
March, 1852. 

James Espey was born July 23, 1815, in Alle- 
gheny county, Penn., and was reared and educated 
on the home farm. In 1838 he was married to 
Susan Sill, who was born March 7, 1816, in West- 
moreland county, Penn. James and Susan Espey 
first located on a farm in Upper St. Clair town- 
ship, Allegheny county, and in 1867 moved to a 



454 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



farm in Cecil township, this county, finally settling, 
in 1875, in Canonsburg. James Espey was active- j 
ly interested in politics, and voted with the Whig 
party, serving some years as justice of the peace. 
He and his wife were members of the Presby- 
terian Church, in which he was ruling elder at 
Upper St. Clair, Cecil and Canonsburg. He died 
at the last mentioned place July 11, 1883; his 
widow is yet living in Canonsburg. They were 
the parents of the following children: Jane, mar- 
ried to Moses Hickman, of Cecil township, and 
died April 1. 1888; J. S., subject of our sketch; 
Ann Emeline, married to Joseph E. McCabe, of 
Peters township; James Thomas, living at Centre- 
ville, Washington Co., Penn., married to Millie 
Jones; Maria Margaret and Laura, both at Canons- 
burg. Laura was married to J. C. Bebout, near 
Canonsburg. 

J. S. Espey (whose name opens these lines) 
was born July 16, 1841, in Allegheny county, 
Penn., and received his education in the dis- 
trict schools of that county. In April, 1861, 
he enlisted at Pittsburgh, Penn., in the three 
mouths' call for troops, and on July 4, 1861, 
reenlisted, this time for three years, or during 
the war, in Company H, Sixty second P. V. I. 
He was mustered into the service at Pittsburgh, 
and assigned to the Second Brigade, First Divis- 
ion, Fifth Army Corps, soon thereafter being 
promoted to the rank of sergeant of the company. 
He participated in the following engagements: 
battle and siege of Yorktown; Hanover C. H., 
May 27, 1862. Mechauicsville, June 26, 1862; 
Gaines' Mills, June 27. L862; Malvern Hill, July 
1, 1862; Harrison's Landing, July 31, 1862; 
Gainesville, August 27, 1862; Antietam, Septem- 
ber 17, 1862; Blackford's Ford, September 20, 
1862, Kearneysville, September 29, 1862; Fred- 
ericksburg, December 13, 1862; Chancellorsville, 
May 1, 2, 3, 1863; Gettysburg. July 2, 3, 1863; 
I'unkstown, Md., July 12, 1863; Rappahannock 
Station, November 7, 1863; New Hope Church. 
November 28, 1863; Mine Run, November 30, 
1863; Wilderness, May 3d, LS64. At the battle 
of Spottsylvania Court House Mr. Epsey was 
wounded on the left shoulder, on account of which 
he was confined in Lincoln Hospital, Washington, 
D. C. He went home on a furlough, but returned* 
to Washington, and on July 13, 1864, received an 
honorable discharge at Pittsburgh, Penn. He 
then returned to Allegheny county, and on De- 
cember 27, 1866, was united in marriage with 
Sarah A. Woods, a daughter of Samuel Woods, 
who was born in 170S, in Allegheny county, 
and was married to Elizabeth Fife, born, in 
L800, in the same county. Samuel and Eliza- 
beth Woods made a permanent home in Snowden 
township, Allegheny county, where he died in 
1S67, having been preceded by his wife in 1865. 



J. S. Espey and his wife came to Cecil township, 
in 1868. In 1874 he bought an improved farm of 
fifty acres in Mount Pleasant township, moved 
upon it same year, and has since been engaged in 
farming and stockraising. The following chil- 
dren have been born to this couple: Minnie L., 
born September 3, 1867 (married December 31, 
1890, to Howard Herriott. She died February 
14. 1S92, leaving one child, Joseph Roy Herriott, 
born February 8, 1892); Ada S., born August 25, 
1870, a teacher in Washington county; James J., 
born February 9, 1876; Carrie May, born May 1, 
1879, and Joseph W.,born November 15, 1880, 
died May 25, 1881. Mr. and Mrs. Espey were 
formerly members of the U. P. Church, in which 
Mr. Espey was a member of the Session, but the\ 
are now adherents of the Presbyterian Church at 
McDonald. In- politics he votes the Republican 
ticket, and is one of the commissioners of Mount 
Pleasant township. 



THOMAS W. ELLWOOD is a sou of William 
Ellwood, who was born in Ohio, and coming 
to Washington county, Penn., when a boy, 
was here reared to manhood. William Ell- 
wood was twice married: first time to a Miss 
Greer, who bore him six children, viz. : William, 
Clarissa (wife of Harrison Bishop), Martha (mar- 
ried to Harrison Thompson), Margaret, aud two 
who died in childhood. For his second wife Mr. 
Ellwood married Ruth, daughter of Thomas Lilley. 
a native of East Pike Run township, this county, 
and their children were Thomas W., Robert and 
Jefferson. Mr. Ellwood learned and followed the 
blacksmith trade, oftentimes working day and night, 
until by years of patient toil he secured a comfort- 
able competence. He afterward became a farmer. 
He voted with the Democratic party, and took an 
active interest in all public matters. His first wife 
was a member of the Presbyterian Church. His 
second wife was raised a Quaker. 

Thomas W. Ellwood was born May 29, 1848, iu 
East Bethlehem township, Washington Co., Penn. 
He first attended the common schools of that local- 
ity, then entered the Southwestern State Normal 
School, at California, afterward taking a commercial 
course at the Iron City College. On February 13, 
1868, he was united in marriage with Rachel, 
daughter of Thomas Richardson, who was born in 
Scotland, and coming to America at an early date, 
settled near Port Perry, Allegheny Co., Penn., later 
coming to Lock No. 5, Washington county. He 
was a farmer, and also served as lock-keeper on the 
Monongahela river. He was married to Janett 
Clendenning, who bore him the following children: 
James, Thomas, John and Rachel (wife of Thomas 
W. Ellwood). His second wife was a Miss George. 
Thomas W. and Rachel Ellwood began wedded life 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



455 



on a farm in East Bethlehem township, Washington 
county, where they resided thirteen years. He then 
sold the place and came to a farm in Fallowfield 
township, upon which he lived twelve years, finally 
moving to his present home in Charleroi, where in | 
1892 he opened, in partnership with Gus Mount- 
ser, a feed, grain and produce business. He affili- 
ates with the Democratic party, and has served in 
many local offices; in religion he is a member of 
and ruling elder in the Cumberland Presbyterian 
Church at Charleroi. Mr. and Mrs. Ellwood have 
three children: Clara J. (wife of Alpheus C. Scott), 
William T. and Lorena M. The family are all 
members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. 
William T. Ellwood engaged with the Charleroi 
Plate Glass Co. , to learn the machine trade, on June 
2, 1891. 



J| R. WINNETT, a representative farmer of 
' Fallowfield township, is the eldest child of 
J Lot Winnett, who was a son of William 
Winnett, and was born and reared in Fallow- 
field township, where he married Hester, a daughter 
of Joseph Budd. They settled on the home farm, 
and children were born to their union as follows: 
J. R. , the subject of this sketch; Hannah, married 
to Henry Cooper, and their children are Peoria (wife 
of Abraham McCracken), Lizzie (wife of Franklin 
Bly, of Charleroi), Hester, Grant, Clinton, Jennie 
and Hannah; Rachel, wife of James Stillwell; 
Elizabeth, wife of Peter Cooper (of Lock No. 4), 
now deceased (they had children as follows: Flora 
Bell, Ida J. and Canada); Christina, who married 
Charlie Reed (their children are Joseph, Rachel, 
Lot, James, Lissie, Ory and Elsie); Hester, who 
married Frank Harrison, and their children were 
John, Dezzie, Anna and Allie (the mother died in 
1888); Isabelle, married to Ellis Allman, of West 
Pike Run township (their children are Josephine, 
Etta, Anna Mary, Willie and Bessie), and Joseph, 
who married Malissa Sphar, and had the following 
children: Cora Jane, Bertie, James, Hettie May, 
Stella and Ollie. The father of this family was a 
stanch advocate of Whig and Republican principles, 
and filled many local offices. He and his wife were 
originally members of the Free- Will Baptist 
Church, afterward uniting with the Methodist 
Episcopal Society, and finally espoused the cause 
of the Disciple Church. He died in 1S90, at the 
age of seventy- six years; his widow is yet residing 
on the home place. 

J. R. Winnett was born in 1839, on the place 
in Fallowfield township where he is yet living. In 
1868 he was united in marriage with Jennie, 
daughter of Joseph Sphar. Her parents were 
born in Washington county, where the father died, 
the mother having passed away near West Newton, 
Penn. Mr. Winnett has passed his life in tilling 



the soil on the place of his birth, which now con- 
tains eighty-five acres of well-cultivated land. He 
is an active member of the Republican party, and 
is now serving as a member of the school board. 
He and his wife are identified with the Methodist 
Episcopal Church at Ebenezer. Their children 
are Lot, Olive May (wife of Paul Hughus, of 
Clarion, Penn.), Charles and J. Kingsley. 



It M RS. MARGARET MINTON, widow of 
I \/j\ Matthias Miuton, a native of Morris 

I ¥i I township, was born December 26, 1824, 
I -» and is a daughter of John V. Hanna. She 
^ was married to Mr. Minton March 8, 1849. 

Matthias Minton was born April 3, 1826, in 
Morris township. His father Matthias Minton, 
moved to Washington county from New Jersey, in 
the early history of the connty. He was by trade 
a blacksmith, to which, in conjunction with farm- 
ing, he gave his attention. He married, early in 
life, Miss Sally Lindley, and of their children is 
named one son, Matthias Minton. The latter 
received educational advantages as a youth, and 
by private application in reading and otherwise, 
prepared himself for the successful pursuance of 
his vocation, farming, and later merchandising and 
hotel-keeping, having succeeded not only in leav- 
ing his family a competence, but an honored name. 
Public spiritedness was a prominent attribute of 
his nature, and the community in which he lived 
attest with pride to what an extent he exercised it. 
In the fall of 1861 he enlisted in the One Hundred 
and Fortieth Regiment, P. V. I., but on account of 
poor health was compelled to return home in 
July. 1862. He was a life-long Democrat, and for 
twenty-four consecutive years served as justice of 
the peace. He was a zealous Christian, being 
united with the Presbyterian Church, in which he 
was deacon. Generous and charitable, he was 
revered by his neighbors, who often went to him 
for advice. He was justly called the poor man's 
friend. In 1890 he sustained injuries from a 
horse kick, which resulted in his death seven 
weeks later. 

To the marriage of Matthias Minton and 
Margaret Hanna four children were born: the 
eldest, John Vance, is a tanner by trade; he 
served as gauger under President Cleveland's 
administration. He married Miss Mary J. Mer- 
riman, of Canonsburg, Washington county. 
Henry Collins, the second son of Matthias, was 
educated at Washington and Jefferson College, 
from which institution he graduated with honors 
in 1879; he then entered the Western Theological 
Seminary, of Allegheny, Penn., and having 
completed the course, accepted the call to the 
pastorate of the First Presbyterian Church of 
Duluth, Minn. His health failing him, he re- 



456 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



signed the charge after a short term of service, and 
passed some time in Florida. Receiving a call 
from the Second Presbyterian Church of Balti- 
more, Md., he entered upon the labors of this 
charge, bnt after a brief time, on the advice of his 
physician, resigned, the climate proving unfavor- 
able to his health, and accepted a call to the 
pastorate of the First Presbyterian Church, of San 
Jose, Cal. This congregation he served six years, 
when he resigned to accept a call to the charge of 
St. John's Church, of San Francisco, which he 
still holds. He was united in marriage with 
Claire Louise Smith, an accomplished Philadel- 
phia lady, and the daughter of a prominent Pres- 
byterian divine. Miss Sarah Lydia, the third 
child of Matthias and Margaret Minton, resides 
with her mother. Isa D. , the fourth child, was 
united in marriage to W. S. Guttery, and resides 
in Prosperity. 



I OHN RUSSELL. This highly prosperous 
. I farmer represents one of the oldest pioneer 
fl families of Washington county. His grand- 
father, Andrew Russell, was born in 1732, 
in Scotland, and came to America in 1758. He 
was married in this country to Isabelle Mays, a 
native of Ireland, and the young couple settled 
near Oxford, Chester Co., Penn., afterward mov- 
ing to Canonsburg, this county, where they re- 
sided till 1782. Andrew then bought the farm in 
Chartiers township, which is yet owned by his 
grandson. He was a blacksmith by trade, having 
brought his tools from eastern Pennsylvania, and, 
being the only one for miles around, his services 
were in constant demand. 

Andrew Russell, a son of the pioneer just men- 
tioned, was born January 3, 1777, in Cecil town- 
ship, this county, and in 1782 was brought by his 
parents to their new home in Chartiers township, 
where his youth was passed. In 1800 he was 
married to Ann McClellan, who was born in 1784, 
in Mt. Pleasant township, this county, and after 
marriage began to manage the home farm. He 
was a \\ hig, taking an active part in the early 
political history of the county; he had a brother 
who served in the war of 1812. In religious 
faith Andrew Russell was first a Seceder, then 
joined the United Presbyterian Church of Canons- 
burg. He died March 2, 1861, in his eighty- 
fourth year, being followed February 17. 1868, by 
his wife, who had borne him children as follows: 
Jane, married to Samuel Lee, and died January 
24, 1880; Isabelle, married to William McCall, and 
died in 1845; James, married in 1S44 to Elizabeth 
McElroy, and died in January, 1890; Ann, living 
in New Concord, Ohio; Elizabeth, married to 
Robert Jeffrey, of Mt. Pleasant township, and 
died January 10, 1878, in her sixty-fifth year; 



Andrew, married in April, 1839, to Jane Miller, 
and died in April, 1891 ; Alexander, married first 
to Magaret Ann Acheson (deceased), then to Lavina 
Cockins, and died September 29, 1886, in his sixty- 
eighth year; Robert, married first to Elizabeth 
McConaughy (deceased), then to Martha Jane 
McNary, and died in May, 1887; John, a sketch 
of whom follows; William (married to Margaret 
Thompson, who died in 1892), living in Chartiers 
township, and Nancy, who died in 1849. 

John Russell, the subject proper of this sketch, 
was born in 1821, on the farm in Chartiers town- 
ship which is his present home. His early edu- 
cation was obtained in the subscription schools 
which were then sustained by a few families inter- 
ested in the literary culture of their children. In 
May, 1866, John Russell was united in marriage 
with Elizabeth Gr. Morrison, a native of Chartiers 
township. She is a daughter of William and 
Sarah (Munce) Morrison, both of whom were born 
and reared in Chartiers township, where the father 
followed farming. He was an ardent member of 
the Whig party, and both parents were members 
of the Presbyterian Church. The father died 
about 1860, in this county, and the mother was 
laid beside him in March, 1885. To the union of 
John and Elizabeth G. (Morrison) Russell four 
children have been born, namely: Lizzie Luella 
(wife of J. R. Hosick, a theological student at the 
Allegheny Seminary; Anna; J. Mack, a student of 
the Western Reserve Medical College, Cleveland, 
Ohio, and Frank (deceased in infancy). Mr. Rus- 
sell owns the home farm, which has been in the 
family over one hundred and ten years, and con- 
sists of 160 acres, upon which comfortable and 
commodious buildings are erected. He makes a 
specialty of raising a high grade of English Shire 
horses. Mr. Russell has in his possession many an- 
tique relics of the past generations, among which 
may lie mentioned an anvil which was brought 
from Scotland by his grandfather, also a day-book 
over one hundred and twenty years old. He has a 
small trunk, or case in trunk shape, that was owned 
by his father, and is very old; it is 4x7 inches, leather 
covered, and is quite a curiosity. He and his wife 
are both members of the United Presbyterian 
Church, at Canonsburg, this county. He was 
formerly a ruling elder in Chartiers Cross Roads 
U. P. Church. Mr. Russell died on Monday, 
January 16, 1893, after only twenty-four hours 
illness. 



'( A. LITTLE. There is a pleasurable interest 
^. I aroused in the minds of both reader and 
\J) writer of biography, as from the life of some 
earnest, intelligent citizen of to-day, we 
wander back through the years until centuries 
have vanished, and in spirit we are standing in 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



457 



the presence of our ancestors. Our eyes brighten, 
and pulses thrill with unwonted inspiration as we 
eagerly study the words and acts of these heroes 
of the past. There is a wonderful fascination in 
this form of psychological study, for, as through a 
mirror, we see the hidden motives and desires of 
our own lives displayed in the record of our fathers 
from which (if we so will it) priceless lessons may 
be obtained. 

Nicholas Little was born in Ireland many years 
ago, and about 1770, with his wife and little son, 
sailed across the ocean, to find a home in fair 
America. He located in the eastern part of Wash- 
ington county, Penn., where his son James grew to 
manhood, and when twenty-one years of age came 
to Cecil township, this county. In 1790 James 
took a patent for 200 acres of land in Cecil town- 
ship, and immediately began the task of clearing it 
for cultivation. With his gun by his side the 
young pioneer felled the trees of the forest, sleep- 
ing at night in a blockhouse near location of the 
villace. now kuown as McDonald, for protection 
from Indians. He married Isabelle Robb, who 
bore him children as follows: John (deceased in 
1823, in Cecil township), Nicholas (lived on the old 
homestead, and died in 1859), James (deceased in 
1876, in Guernsey county, Ohio; his daughter, Mrs. 
Emerick. is now living on the homestead), David 
(first settled in Ohio, then moved to Lee county, 
Iowa. He died in 1870, at Paxton, Ford Co., 
111.), Elizabeth (deceased in 1819), Nancy (was the 
wife of John McConaughey, Mount Pleasant town- 
ship), Jane (deceased in 1868, married to Joseph 
Craig, Belmont county, Ohio), and Isabelle (died 
July 17, 1877). The father died in 1834. 

Joseph Little was born October 25, 1806, on the 
old homestead in Cecil township, and in 1838 was 
united in marriage with Mary Robb, a native of 
Logan county, Ohio. The young people settled on a 
farm adjoining the old homestead where he followed 
farming. He was a man of decided views, in poli- 
tics a Whig and Republican, and voted for John 
C. Fremont. He and his wife were first members 
of the Associate Presbyterian Church, at Nobles- 
town, Penn. He afterward united with the Asso- 
ciate Congregation of Millers Run, at Venice, serv- 
ing as a ruling elder from the time of its organiza- 
tion. Mrs. Little died September 15, 1860, and 
on February 23, 1885, he was laid by her side. 
They were the parents of two children: J. A., and 
Samuel Reed (deceased in 1874, in his twenty - 
ninth year). 

J. A. Little was born December 12, 1840, on the 
home farm in Cecil township, which is yet his 
home, receiving his education in the country 
schools. After leaving school he began to follow 
fanning and stock raising on the home place. On 
March 22, 1866, Mr. Little was united in marriage 
with Mary E., daughter of Cornelius and Rebecca 



(Kelso)Borland, natives of Allegheny county, Penn. , 
who came to Cecil township many years ago, where 
the father died in 1872, and where the mother is 
yet living. Of this union five children have been 
born, viz. : Joseph (married to Mary, daughter of 
Mark Cowden, living on home farm in Cecil town- 
ship), Edwin C. (attending the Theological Semi- 
nary, at Allegheny, Penn. ), Annetta, Ida B. and 
Clara R. The farm of Mr. Little at present con- 
tains 347 acres of good land, upon which are five 
dwelling houses, in one of which the present tenant 
has been living forty years. He does an extensive 
business in stock raising. In politics he votes 
with the Republican party, and has filled various 
township offices. He and his wife are active 
members of the U. P. Church, at Venice. 




RS. ELMIRA TILTON (widow of Daniel 
Tilton) was born in Fayette county, Penn., 
June 12, 1825. She is the daughter of 
George and Eleanor (Laytou) Whiting, and 
was first married to Jesse Jackman, but 
some time after his death became the wife of Dan- 
iel Tilton, who was of English ancestry. 

James Tilton, grandfather of Daniel, was a na- 
tive of New Jersey, where he was married, three 
children — John, James and Nancy — being born to 
this union. He afterward moved to Pennsylvania, 
remaining in Greene county a short time, and while 
there almost decided to purchase the wood-covered 
tract on which the town of Waynesburgh, Greene 
county, has since been built. 

John Tilton, the only son of James, was born in 
New Jersey in 1785. He moved to Washington 
county, Penn., with his parents, where, in 1800, he 
was united in marriage with Elizabeth Paden,of East 
Finley township, Washington county. To their 
union were born eleven children, but one of whom 
is still living, Elvira (unmarried, a resident of 
Franklin township). Mr. Tilton was a devoted 
member of the Baptist Church at Pleasant Grove, 
and confirmed the donation of the land, made by 
James, upon which it was built, becoming one of 
the first deacons of that church. 

Daniel Tilton, son of John and Elizabeth (Paden) 
Tilton, born February 6, 1815, on his father's farm 
near Pleasant Grove, died March 4, 1890. His 
education was received in the schools of the period, 
and his boyhood was passed in attending them and 
assisting with the farm duties. He also partially 
learned the carpenter and cooper trades. In 1835 
he was married to Abigail Pratt, who died in 1859, 
leaving him one child, Mary, now the wife of Henry 
Eulow, of East Finley township. Five other chil- 
dren were born to them, but none lived to an adult 
age. On August 23, I860, Mr. Tilton was united 
in marriage with Mrs. Elmira Jackman, and to 
their union the following children were born: 



458 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



George W., born September 14, 1861, now man- 
aging the home farm (married to Maggie F. Fer- 
rell, of West Finley township, and has one child, 
Harry W.); Louisa Catherine, born January 14, 
1863, died December '23, 1865; Eleanor W., born 
April 5, 1864, married to David K. Bell, and died 
October 1, 1889, and Laura E., born December 20, 
L866, an accomplished young lady, residing with 
her mother. In 1838 Mr. Tilton purchased a part 
of the "Old Byers" tract of land, situated about 
three miles south of Claysville, in East Finley 
township, where he successfully followed the vo- 
cation of a farmer the rest of his life. He was a 
zealous Christian, liberal contributor and hearty 
supporter of the Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, 
of which be was a member and deacon. Politically 
he was a Republican. His widow, who is also a 
member of the Baptist Church, resides on the home 
farm, her son, G. W. Tilton, managing the farm, 
and taking the place in church affairs held for bo 
many years by his father. 



J;OHN A. FLACK. Among the early pio- 
I neers of Washington county was John Flack, 
! who came from Lancaster, Penn., to Wash- 
ington village, where he purchased a town lot 
in the year 1784, becoming oneof the rirstlot owners 
in the borough. In 1788 he removed to Buffalo 
township, where he purchased a farm upon which 
he erected the first frame house in that section of 
the country. This home is still in a good state of 
preservation, and there may be seen, to-day, mem- 
bers of the fourth generation of the family, born 
therein, the homestead having remained constantly 
in the p >ssession of the family. 

John Flack married Jane Gault, a native of Can- 
onsburg. Washington county, and to them were 
bom the following children: James, John, Samuel, 
David and Mary. The mother of these children 
died on the homestead in Buffalo township, Decem- 
ber 14, 1823, in her sixty-third year. John Flack 
was known among the earliest settlers of Buffalo 
township, and resided there until the time of his 
death, which occurred in 1832. 

John Flack, second child of John and Jane 
(Gault) Flack, was born October 23, L788. He 
married Miss Ann Anderson, daughter of Rev. Mr. 
Anderson, of Upper Buffalo, Washington county, 
and a pioneer minister there. The young couple 
took up their residence in Bulfalo township, where 
they reared a large family, and passed the remain- 
der of their useful and honorable lives, the father 
dying September 13, 1S42, the mother several 
j ens later. 

John A. Flack, son of John and Ann (Anderson) 
Flack, and at present one of the oldest and best 
known residents of Buffalo township, was born 
February 6, 1824, on the old homestead where he 



now resides. He spent his boyhood days upon the 
farm, amidst the trials and limited advantages of 
that pioneer period. The little subscription 
school, held in an humble log cabin, whose primi- 
tive furnishings of puncheon floor, slab desks and 
benches were eloquent witnesses of the privations 
of the day, was the only "college" afforded him. 
There, for a few weeks during the winter, the chil- 
dren from the surrounding country would assem 
ble, and while one-half of their attention was em- 
ployed in extracting wisdom from the old-fash- 
ioned spelling book and reader, the other half 
would be utilized in directing the struggle with the 
cold which came in through many a crack and 
crevice in the building. Amidst such scenes as 
this Mr. Flack spent his boyhood, and in his later 
years, when the advancement of our day has pro- 
vided the youth with greater comforts, he looked 
back with pleasure upon the past, and related many 
amusing incidents of his early struggles. He died 
January 17, 1893, in his sixty-ninth year. 

On February 24, 1846, Mr. Flack was united in 
marriage with Elizabeth McWilliams, daughter of 
Gen. Wallace McWilliams, of Buffalo township, 
who had represented his district in the State Legis- 
lature, and was a major-general of the State mili- 
tia. Four children were born to this union: Wal- 
lace McW. (who now conducts the home farm), 
Annie (deceased at the age of twelve years), Lizzie 
and Nannie died in infancy. Mrs. Flack died 
December 22, L886, in her sixty fifth year, having 
been a devoted member of the Presbyterian 
Church. Politically Mr. Flack was an ardent 
Democrat, and in early life he took an active part 
in the political questions of the day. 




JLLIAM McCASLAXD. a well-known, 
wide-awake farmer of West Bethlehem 
township, was born February 20, 1840, 
upon the old homestead in that township, 
a son to Matthew McCasland, who was born in 
1802 in County Deny, Ireland, and died June 1\ 
1883. When twenty years of age the father left 
the "Emerald Isle,'' coming first to Quebec, 
Canada, then to Washington county, Penn. He 
began to work at the tailor's trade in Mononga- 
hela, and continued in that business there and in 
other cities forinany years. He then purchased 
the farm which is now the home of his son, and 
spent the remainder of his life in agriculture. He 
wedded Sibbie Wilson Moore, September 10, 
1825, daughter of James Moore, of West Bethle- 
hem township, and the children born to them were: 
Martha (deceased), Catherine (deceased), Sarah, 
Hugh (deceased), Henderson and William. Mat- 
thew McCasland was a Democrat, and, although 
not an active politician, he was ever on the alert 
to the interests of his party. His wife, who died 



WASHINGTON COUM). 



459 



August 20, 1879, was a member of the Lutheran 
Church. 

William McCasland received a limited educa- 
tion in the common schools of the neighborhood 
of his place of birth, but is a well-informed man, 
fond of reading. He managed the home farm 
some years previous to the death of his father, and 
has always been a successful business man, prao 
ticiug in every-day life the principles of honor 
which he believes to be the only foundation of 
true success. He was married November 28, 187G, 
to Miss Martha Shrontz, and they have two chil- 
dren: Robert Wilson and Viola Rebecca. Mr. 
McCasland is a Democrat, and has served as school 
director for his township. Ho and Ins family are 
members of the Disciple Church at Lone Pine, 
Mrs. Martha McCasland was born September 20, 
IN li'i. Her grandfather, Frederick Shrontz, came 
to Pennsylvania from Germany, when a youth, and 
married Elizabeth Shidlen. Her parents were 
George and Rebecca (Carter) Shrontz. Rebecca is 
the daughter of John and A. (McFarland) Carter. 
Her husband died in April, 1885. 



JAMES E. RIAL is a worthy representative 
of a patriotic and soldierly family. The 
family history is one of loyalty. They have 
ever freely given of their best and dearei I to 
aid their native land in her agonized struggles for 
liberty. "Life for a life" in their bible was 
interpreted as the life of the hero for the existence 
of his country; and nobly did (bis pioneer family 
answer to the call for volunteers. 

Isaac Rial was born in New Jersey, and the 
blood of Scottish patriots coursed through his 
veins. He was a prosperous planter before the 
Revolution, having been among the first to shoul- 
der arms in that mighty struggle, and the last to 
lay them down after twelve years upon the battle 
field. Ho was the father of five children. 

Daniel Rial, the oldest sou of Isaac, was born in 
1796, in the State of New Jersey, and when the 
war- of 1812 opened was too young to enlist. But 
" we are the same that our fathers have been," and 
the soldier spirit of his ancestors was burning with 
unquenchable fire in the bosom of the child. He 
volunteered to help build the fortifications at New 
York, and was permitted to assist in that task. 
He well remembered seeing the entrance of the Brit 
ish fleet into New York harbor. His mother, 
worthy of her warrior son and husband, bound up 
the wounds of the American soldiers. After the 
war the lad returned to the farm, and devoted his 
time to agricultural pursuits. In 1820 he chose a 
wife in the person of Susan Allfreo, who was born 
in 1801, in Carroll township, Washington Co., 
Pen n. He settled on a farm in the district known 
as the Dutch settlement, in the same township, 



and lived there till his death, in 1SS0, when, in the 
fullness of a ripe and honored age, he went down 
to the grave, esteemed by all who knew him. 
Eleven children were born to them, of whom the 
following are yet living: Allfree H., Isaac T.j 
Susan, Catherine (living in Ohio), Joseph Y. (in 
Missouri), Daniel E. (in Westmoreland county, 
I'enn. ), and James E. (in Nottingham township). 
The father was a devout Christian gentleman. 
He was a member of the Baptist Church for over 
sixty years, and helped to organize one of the first 
congregations of that denomination and build one 
of the tii-sl churches in the Monongahela Valley. 
Susan, his wife, was a daughter of John and Het- 
fcie foster Allfree. They were among the first 
settlers along the Monongahela river. They 
raised a family of niue children eight daughters 
and one son. Abraham, the son, moved to Iowa, 
where he died at the age of eighty six years, leav- 
ing an influence for good. He was an active worker 
in the Methodist Church for sixty years, and held 
an e\ horter's license for most of that time. He 
was always able to help the needy, and did much 
in the way of benevolence. Susan, the widow of 
Daniel Rial, who is in her ninety second year, is 
living with her son, .lames E. Rial. She has been 
a member of the Baptist Church for more than 
scvenh years 

■ lames K Rial was born l> niberlil, 1N|(), in 

Carroll township, Washington county, receiving a 
good education in the schools of the vicinity. 
The war of the Rebellion broke out in the midst, 
of his school years. He enlisted September 2(5, 
1862, uniler ('apt. J. Y. Chesrown, in Company D, 
Ringgold Cavalry, which was soon after consoli- 
dated with the Tvventv Becond P. V. Cavalry, 
his company being then Company E, of said 
regiment. The regiment was commanded by Col. 
Greenfield, of Washington county. Mr. Rial was 

with the regiment in many promii t engagements: 

in the noted battle of Gettysburg, in command of 
a detachment of cavalry; under Gen. Lew Wallace, 
at Monocacj river; he was with Sheridan in his 
famous campaign in the Shenandoah Valley, 
which meant lighting from Harper's Ferry to Rich 
mond, and in the memorable battle of Winchester, 
where thousands were killed. His regiment, led 
by Col. Greenfield, charged the fortifications, capi 
uring a piece of artillery and many prisoners. 
Two days later Sheridan attacked Early at Fisher's 
Hill. His squadron, Companies E and F, charged 
the rifle-pits, with loss; in this charge a ball 
passed through his coat; the squadron dismounted 
to hold their position. In the grand and final 
charge, along the whole line, his squadron charged 
on foot. He, with Col. Greenfield and Jacob 
\\ ise, of Company F, and William Stan-, of Com- 
pany E, were among the first inside the fortifica- 
tions. One mouth later came the battle of Cedar 



460 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Creek, during which Sheridan made his famous 
ride. It was one of the hardest-fought battles 
of the war. His regiment was in that great 
charge, which gave victory to the Union boys. His 
horse fell in that engagement, injuring his right 
leg. Numerous were the hardships which he 
encountered, best known to the soldier. He was 
promoted from the ranks to orderly sergeant, and 
received his discharge July 5, 1865. 

Leaving the scenes of carnage for the peaceful 
pursuits of rural life, Mr. Rial settled on a farm in 
Washington county. He was married November 
1, 1871, to Anna A. Bryant, a native of this coun- 
ty, daughter of James M. Bryant and Sarah Curry 
Bryant. They had three children: William O, 
Moore M. and Anna A. Mr. Bryant was a pros- 
perous farmer. He was a ruling elder in the U. P. 
Church for forty years, and a man of honor and in- 
tegrity. He died in 1880, aged seventy nine. 
The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Rial has been 
bless. 'il by four children, two of whom are living: 
Susie S. and Lizzie A. Both are in school, Susie 
attending school at Pittsburgh, Penn. Mr. Rial 
has a very desirable home, ami takes great pleas 
ure in his tine fruit and thoroughbred Jersey cat- 
tle. He has belonged to the Prohibition party for 
eleven years. He is an honorable gentleman, a 
reader well posted on the events of the day, and 
takes an active part in all moral movements. He 
and his family are members of the first Presby 
terian Church of Fiuleyville. 



t 



dAMKS L. PATTERSON, banker, Burgetts 
town, is one of the most prominent citizens 
and successful financiers in the northern part 
of Washington county. 
The family have been residents of Pennsylvania 
for many years, and Josiah Patterson (grandfather 
of subject) was born, about the year 1 750, on a 
farm in the Cumberland Valley, eastern Pennsyl- 
vania. He was there united in marriage with Mary 

, and in 1806 came with his wife and four 

children to Washington county, the journey being 
made in an emigrant wagon, which carried the 
family and all their worldly goods. He purchased 
and located upon a farm of 197 acres in Smith 
township, near Burgettstown, the land having been 
a part of the Samuel Whittaker tract, Of the 
children born to Josiah and Mary Patterson, Eliz- 
abeth was married to Ebenezer Smith, and died in 
Guernsey county, Ohio; Mary was never married, 
and took care of her mother until the death of the 
latter (this daughter died in her eighty-third year) ; 
Robert is spoken of farther on. Josiah Patterson 
always followed farming, and in religion was a 
member of the Presbyterian Church. He died in 

1823, and was buried in Cross (.'reek cemetery. 
The farm was left to his son Robert, and the will 



owed mother then resided with her daughter, pass- 
ing away in 18-30, at the patriarchal age of ninety- 
seven years. Before the death of Mrs. Mary Pat- 
terson, there were four of the same name living 
together at one time: grandmother, daughter, 
granddaughter and daughter of James L. Patter- 
son, the subject proper of this sketch. 

Robert Patterson, son of Josiah and Mary Pat- 
terson, was born in 1786, in the Cumberland Val- 
ley, Penn., and when twenty years of age came with 
his parents to Washington county. He enlisted 
in the war of 1812, serving a short time, and in 
1^11 was married to Mary, daughter of James 
Linn, both of whom were born in the Cumberland 
Valley. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Pat- 
terson located on his father's farm near Burgetts- 
town, Penn., and he followed the profession of 
surveyor. He became a very successful business 
man, settling up various estates and dealing exten- 
sively in wool. In political opinion he was origi- 
nally a YA hig, then a Republican, and served as 
justice of the peace for many years. In religious 
faith he and his wife were members of the Presby- 
terian Church at Florence, at which place he was 
elected an elder in 1832, and served in that capac- 
ity until the organization of a Presbyterian Church 
at Burgettstown, in 1849, to which place he trans 
ferred his membership; he was made an elder there 
also, and served in that office until his death, which 
occurred in February, 1861. He was regarded as 
the founder of the church in Burgettstown. Mrs. 
Patterson died of consumption in 1S~>4, and was 
first buried at Florence, but her remains were af- 
terward interred in the cemetery at Burgettstown, 
where they now rest. Three of their daughters 
died of consumption, viz.: Eliza, at the age of 
twenty two; Sarah, who had been married but sis 
months, and died aged twenty, and Jane, who had 
been twice married, and died at the age of thirty. 

James L. Patterson was born November 1 2, 
1824, on the farm in Smith township where he is 
yet living. After attending the common schools, 
he entered the academy at Florence, then took a 
course at Washington College, graduating there- 
from in 1842. He always excelled as a pupil, 
having read Latin at the age of nine years, and 
graduated when but seventeen. After leaving col 
lege he read medicine at home a short time, and 
about the age of nineteen years he taught school 
in Burgettstown one winter. In 1849 he began 
business in a general store, remaining there three 
years, thence returningto rural life. On April 20, 
1854, he was united in marriage with Sarah A., 
daughter of William Linn, of Cumberland Valley, 
Penn., and she has borne him the following chil- 
dren: Robert and William (both deceased in infancy), 
Mary (at home). AddieJ. (instructor of instrument- 
al music in Richmond College, Jefferson county, 
Ohio) and Elizabeth K. (of whom special mention 








y /$bl^?^. 



WASlll.XGTON COUNTY. 



it;:! 



is made further on), J. Fred, (clerking in the Bur- 
gettstown National Bank) and Anna (living at 
home). Miss Elizabeth K. Patterson was in Au- 
gust, 1890, taken !))• her father to Paris, France, in 
order to be placed under the far-famed instructor 
of vocal music, Madame Marchesi, and here she 
has since remained. Miss Patterson possesses a 
tine soprano voice, and bids fair to become promi 
nent in her profession. She was three years at 
Forest Park Oniversity, St. Louis, building up the 
music department, of which she was instructor; 
and so efficient was she in her duties that the 
managers of the university, after she had gone to 

Paris, wanted her back even to the extent of cab 

ling her to return. Mr. Patterson was elected an 
elder in the Presbyterian Church at Burgettstown 
in 1862, and still holds that office. The member- 
ship of thai churoh is 130 at the present time. 

In 1865 Mr. Patterson was appointed the first 
agent of the P. C. & St. L. R. R. Co. in Burgetts 
town, also of the Express company, and opened a 
store at " the station" as it was then called. In 
1867 he left tin' railroad company, and again began 
fanning. In 1 S7li he organized the Burgettstown 
Savings Hank, of which he was secretary and 
treasurer, and in IST'.I (the bank having become 
the Burgettstown National Bank), was made 

cashier, which position hi' has since held. He has 
been the sole manager of the bank business in 
Burgettstown. and has been I he prime mover in the 
success of the institution. The bank is in a 
remarkable state of prosperity, having materially 
thriven under Mr. Patterson's management. It 
has a deposit of ?:!00,000, and surplus and undi- 
vided profits of SliT,, 000, the capital stock being 

$80,000. 

Our subject inherited a tendency to consumption. 
and at the age of twenty years was examined by 
Dr. Lane, of Washington, who decided that he 
had symptoms of tuberculosis, and that, to pie- 
serve his life, he would have to go South. Agree 
able to the advice of his physician, he set out in 
search of health, journeying to Louisiana in IS I 1. 
He arrived there in November, and engaged in 
teaching school in the vicinity of Baton Rouge, re- 
turning to his home the following spring. Tn .111111', 
1845, he fell from a cherry tree, on his father's 
farm, spraining his left hip joint, from which he 
has never recovered. Soon thereafter (ie started 
with crutch and cane on a Southern trip. He pro 
ceeded to the eastern sea board, and at Wilming 
ton, N. C, embarked on a vessel lor Charleston; 
thence sailed to Savannah, and after spending 
some time on the trip returned to his home, sup- 
posing he had not long to live. On June IS, 1892, 
he fell from a street car in Washington, and again 
injured his hip, besides having his shoulder injured, 
from which he suffered for a considerable time. 
Mr. Patterson has been a victim of dyspepsia all 

•j:t 



his life, and has not been a day quite free from 
pain. He is a man live feet nine inches in height, 
weighing I 11 pounds. Has sandy hair, now tinged 
with gray, and is possessed of a pleasant Roman 
cast of countenance. Ho still lives on the farm 
where he was bom, and which he now owns. 



fli LEXANDER A. GUNN. A biographical 

l/l\ record of Washington county would be in 

[H\i complete were not prominent mention made 

JJ of the distinguished Gunn family, who have 

been OOnnected with the history of the 
county from its earliest sett lenient. 

The Gunns, of whom we now write, trace their 
ancestry to Holland, whence, at the close of the 
fourteenth century, a branch of the famil\ mi 
grated lo Scotland, where they found occupations, 
some as weavers, others as herdsmen. There, amid 
the beautiful and romant ic scenery of the High- 
lands, were, for the first time, opened lo tic light 

of day the eyes of Alexander Gunn, who became 

the great-grandfather of the subject of this sketch, 
and who was the first of the family of whom there 
is any definite record. He never left the mother 

Country, but died among his heather-chid hills at, 

an advanced age. His son, William, was the first 
of the family to emigrate to America. He was a 
native of Aberdeenshire, where he married, about 
the year 1770, Anna Gunn (no relative). One 
child, Neil, was born to them prior to their leaving 
theirnative land. Sailing from Glasgow, this little 
family, after a voyage of nine weeks and three days, 
landed at Philadelphia, Penn., where they re- 
mained some little time, and here was horn, in 
I77S, John Gunn, father of the subject of these 
lines. In 1780 the family, now consisting of 
father and mother and two children, set out for the 
then "Far West," over the mountains, the mot her 
seated on a horse, on either side of which was 
hung a hickory basket, like a pannier, in which each 
of the children was placed. In this manner they 
reached Washington count), where they settled 
near where Brownsville now stands, in the wild 
forest, from which they hewed out for themselves 
a primitive home, and developed the fertile farm 
that is now the property of A. (I. Patterson. 
When Gen. Way ne started out on his expedition 
against the Indians, William Gunn joined him at 
Cincinnati, and remained with him until the expe 
dition Came to an end in I7U'J. During bis ab- 
sence the Indians raided his home, but his wife 
fortunately escaped in time with her two children, 
Neil and John, to Honey's blockhouse, less than a 
mile distant. The raiders did little damage, how 
ever, merely killing a couple of cows, and carrying 
off part of their carcases to their camp. After his 
return Mr. Gunn lived upon his farm until his 
death, without being further molested by the 



464 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



Indians. He died in 1826. He had a family of 
eleven children, all now deceased, their names being 
as follows: Neil, John, William, Levi, Eliza and 
Christian (twins), Mary, Alexander, Marquis, Ad- 
dison and David. 

John Gunu assisted his parents in the arduous 
work incident to the clearing up of a new farm in 
tin isp early days, until IS 14, when he became 
united in marriage with Martha McClure, a native 
of Washington county, and a graduate of Washing- 
ton Seminary. Eight children were born to them, 
their names and dates of birth being as follows: 
Margaret Ann, 1816; William, 1818; Denny M. , 
L821: Mary Jane (Mrs. Carroll), 1823; Neil, 1825; 
Alexander A. ; Catherine (Mrs. J. H. Carroll), 1830; 
Martha E., 1832; of these, three are deceased: 
Margaret, in 1869; William, in 1862, and Martha 
E. in 1852. John Guuu, the father of these chil- 
dren, died in West Fiuley township, October 8, 
L848, the mother on March 26. 1833. 

Alexander A. Gunn was born October 14, 1828, 
in West Finley township, Washington Co., Penn. 
He attended school in the old-fashioned log school- 
house of those days, a few weeks in winter time, 
the remainder of the year being occupied in assist- 
ing his father in the general duties of the farm. 
On March 18, 1851, he was married to Mary Burns, 
who was born October 18, 1830, on the farm where 
she and her husband now reside in West Finley 
township, a daughter of John and Martha Burns. 
Ten children came to bless this union, of whom the 
following is a brief record: John B. , born Jan- 
uary 12, 1852, died in 1855; Martha, born in 1854, 
married Rev. W. J. Fisher; Will R., born Decem- 
I mm- S. 1S56, married Miss Belle Pattisou; R. D. A., 
born March 10, 1859, is a practicing physician in 
Cleveland, Ohio; Mary L., born April 29, 1862; 
Ada B.. born August 8, 1865; Sadie E. , born June 
25, L868; Lottie B., born October 9, 1870; Lynn 
('., born February 9, 1872, and Robert, born July 
9, L874, died July 5, 1879. After his marriage 
Mr. Gunn rented an unimproved part of his 
father inlaw's farm in West Finley township, on 
which he erected a cabin, and then proceeded to 
clear the land of the timber and underbrush, and 
make for himself and bride a comfortable though 
primitive home. When the Civil war broke out 
Mr. Gunn enlisted in Company K, Sixteenth P. V. 
C, serving until March, 1863, his term of enlist- 
ment having expired, and he was discharged from 
the service with the rank of second lieutenant. 
Dining his absence with his regiment his house 
and barn were destroyed by tire, and on his return 
he moved to Buffalo township, where he resided 
six years, engaged in agriculture; he then came to 
the farm on which he now lives, in West Finley 
township, and which comprises 250 acres of fine 
land, all in a good state of cultivation; Mr. Gunu 



is a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian 
Church at Burnsville. 

Mrs. Gunu is a granddaughter of Alexander 
Burns, who was born in Ireland, and who at the 
age of fourteen years was " pressed " on board a 
British man-of-war on which he served as ''powder 
boy" for seven years. At the end of that time, 
his ship being in the New York harbor, he made 
his escape, and in that city he lived seven years 
before he could find a favorable opportunity to 
return to his native land. When he did at last get 
there, he found his mother had died, his father 
married again, and his brothers and sisters all 
gone from the old home — some dead, others mar- 
ried. Fiuding his old home so different to his ex- 
pectations, he decided to return to America, which 
he accordingly did, settling about the year 1783 in 
Washington county, Penn. , on the farm now owned 
by Alexander A. Gunn, the subject proper of this 
memoir. Here he built himself a rude cabin out 
of hewn logs, which still stands — a mute yet elo- 
quent relic of the past — and commenced to clear 
sufficient land whereon to grow enough grain to 
maintain himself and horse (his only companion) 
until the following summer. But all his pains 
were dissipated " like castles in the air;" for not 
long after he had begun to hew out his little farm 
from the dense forest, he was captured by Indians 
who carried him off to their camp, where he was 
tried before a "council," and condemned to be 
burned at the stake. He was then taken to the 
place of execution, and tied to a tree, wood being 
piled around him, and set on fire; but before the 
consuming element had made much headway, an 
old squaw, who had lost a son in battle a short 
time before, interceded for his life in such strong 
terms that the victim was released and given to the 
old woman. He was then pnt through some 
"purifying" process (Redskin fashion) "to drive 
the white blood out of him," and attired in Indian 
raiment, feathers being about the most prominent 
article in the wardrobe. With this tribe Mr. 
Burns remained four years, at the end of which 

time he managed to effect his escape after a g I 

deal of strategy. In order to reach his pioneer 
hut which he had built in Washington county, be 
had .to journey on foot from near where the city of 
Toledo, Ohio, now stands, but he got home, at last, 
in safety, footsore and weary, and then found his 
faithful old gray horse browsing near the cabin 
just as he had left him four years before. He then 
set to work and completed the clearing up of his 
land, soon afterward marrying Miss Jane Carroll, 
of East Finley township, who had lately come 
from Ireland in company with her brother Hamil- 
ton. They had been married about one year, 
during which time they had seen no hostile Indians, 
till one morning Mr. Burns came running in from 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



465 



the field, shouting: "Jennie, the Indians are 
upon us. We must go to Liodley's blockhouse, or 
we'll be murdered inside of an hour!" At once 
they set out, and had not proceeded far in their 
flight, when they heard the savages shoot the 
dog which had been left behind. This added 
fresh impetus to their speed, and the fort was 
soon reached in safety, when the inmates and 
surrounding settlers were warned of their danger. 
During the night succeeding this eventful day, 
Mrs. Burns gave birth to her first-born, an infant 
boy, whom they named James, and who in after 
life became the uncle of Mrs. Alexander A. Gunn. 



ffOSEPH EITNER CUNNINGHAM. Fore- 
j most in the ranks of those who have hewed 
frl, their way to success, and arc now standing 
^^ in positions of honor and trust, stands t In- 
subject of this sketch. He is a worthy representa- 
tive of a cultured and intellectual family, who were 
of Irish ancestry. Dr. Cunningham was born in 
the Emerald Isle, and received a thorough medical 
education at Dublin University. He came to 
America at an early day, and settling in Washing- 
ton borough, Penn., soon obtained a lucrative 
practice, leaving a considerable property to his 
children. 

Gtistavus Cunningham was a son of Dr. Cun- 
ningham, and learned the tailor's trade. In early 
life he was married to Elizabeth, a sister of Gov. 
Joseph Ritner, and she bore him four children, 
viz. : Sarah (wife of James Denny, Iowa), Matilda 
(married to David Le Fevre, Cumberland county, 
Penn.), Catherine (widow of Henry Canarr, of 
Iowa) and Joseph Ritner. The father died when 
his youngest son was yet an infant, and the mother 
married again, giving her babe to the care of his 
uncle, Joseph Ritner, of whom a sketch is given. 

Joseph Ritner was a son of Michael Ritner (ma- 
ternal grandfather of Mr. Cunningham). Michael 
was born in Germany, and after coining to this 
country, adopted the cause of the persecuted colo- 
nists. He enlisted in the Revolutionary war, fight- 
ing gallantly under Gen. Washington, and at the 
battle of Long Island, swam across the sound, car- 
rying his musket by its strap in his month. He 
then returned to Schuylkill, Penn., and followed 
the weaver's trade for some time; but his martial 
spirit rebelled against the monotony of private life, 
and once again the German patriot shouldered arms 
in defense of his adopted country. He participated 
in the siege of Yorktown, and was present at Corn- 
wallis' surrender in 1781, the crowning triumph of 
the war. Joseph Ritner was born March 25, 1780, 
on the Schuylkill, in a village now included in the 
city of Philadelphia. He soon proved himself a 
worthy son of his brave and patriotic father, and 
when the war of 1812 began he was numbered 



with the earliest volunteers, serving six months 
with Harrison and Scott. Soon after his marriage, 
Joseph Ritner came to Washington county, and 
purchasing 140 acres began, with characteristic 
energy, the task of clearing it. His early neigh- 
bors afterward loved to tell how the sound of his axe 
was heard far into the night, as his stout arms cleared 
the forest, while the faithful wife, no less persever- 
ing than her husband, stood by his side, burning 
brush, that he might see to work. Such an indom- 
itable nature as he possessed knows no such word 
as fail, but ever climbing higher and higher, pauses 
not till the pinnacle of success is attained. Pros- 
perity came to Joseph Ritner. Fortune smiled 
upon him, and his axe was heard no more in the 
forest, for men had need of the mighty intellect 
which had been fitted and strengthened for hercu- 
lean tasks by early development of the muscular 
powers, no less than by intellectual training. Great 
questions were before the people, a crisis in the 
history of the United States and of the New World 
was rising before the people, aud confusion reigned 
supreme. Leaders must be found, men of power 
who could guide the swaying mass of struggling 
humanity into at least a semblance of order, and 
such men are ever rare. Among the few who 
instantly responded to the agonized call of their 
suffering country, and bending all their powers of 
soul and body to the mighty task, brought some 
order out of the chaos and a faint light from the 
midnight darkness of the impending rebellion — 
among these heroes is enrolled the name of Joseph 
Ritner. From the beginning of the struggle, his 
influence was exerted on the side of freedom, being 
bitterly opposed to the extension of slave trade, 
and eventually opposing secret societies. He was 
elected to the Legislature six times in succession, 
serving three times as speaker, aud having once 
been elected by the unanimous vote of the House. 
It is said that while serving as speaker, not one of 
his rulings was ever reversed, an enviable and un- 
usual distinction for a man in that position, and 
especially among the exciting scenes then trans- 
piring. He was afterward elected as governor, 
evincing in that responsible position the same traits 
which had characterized his services in minor 
offices. He was a member of the College of Elect- 
ors on the Whig ticket of 1840, taking an active 
part in the campaign of that year. He possessed 
the warm personal friendship of Gen. Harrison, 
who, after his inauguration as President appointed 
him treasurer of the Mint. The Senate declined 
to confirm the appointment, an act said to be due 
to Gov. Ritner' s opposition to the Masonic Frater- 
nity. At last the storm, which had been gathering 
for years above the Nation's sky, burst with tre- 
mendous violence, all the pent-up rage, jealousy 
and pride of a divided people swept furiously over 
the puny barriers erected, wrath and passion ruled 



466 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



the hour, Ft. Sumter fell, and the great Rebellion 
had begun at last. Gov. Ritner had then grown 
old in the service of his country, his hair was 
whitened with the snow of more than eighty years, 
but the fire of youth Hashed from the eyes of the 
aged veteran as he sprang to arms when the cannon 
of Fort Sumter sounded on his ears. Eagerly the 
gallant soldiers rallied around the standard of their 
white-haired colonel, who led them to Harrisburg, 
Penn., and there tendered his services to the Gov- 
ernment. But his age proved an insurmountable 
objection, and the noble warrior-statesman was 
forced to accept the less dangerous, and yet scarcely 
less important, position of an honored counselor to 
the active workers in the great struggle. Although 
prohibited from active participation, the veteran 
continued to watch the terrible conflict with una- 
bated zeal. His attitude toward the belligerent 
States is best illustrated by an extract from a letter 
which he wrote March '2'-'. 1863, to Mrs. Cunning- 
ham. He wrote as follows: "If I live until the 
day after to-morrow I will be eighty-three years 
old. My health is good, I am free from aches and 
pains of all kinds. God has been very kind and 
good to me thus far, and I hope and trust that He 
will permit me to live to see this wicked, unholy, 
Godless and causeless rebellion crushed, so that I 
may leave the world and my country in peace, 
united and prosperous under the best government 
vouchsafed to man in any part of the world." His 
prayer was answered, and he passed away in his 
ninety-fifth year, having seen the end of the great 
struggle which had tilled so much of his life. 
Gov. Ritner possessed deep and sincere piety, 
more than ordinary intelligence, remarkable per- 
ceptive power, and was firm in every conviction of 
duty. He had an iron constitution, robust frame, 
and wonderful vitality. Words can not do justice 
io the life of this heroic patriot, brilliant states- 
man, valued citizen and consecrated Christian man. 
Joseph Ritner Cunningham was born Septem- 
ber 18, 1824, in Chartiers township, Washington 
Co., Penn., and remained with his illustrious un- 
cle during his miuoi it \ . receiving a good English 
education. In 1839 lie went with his uncle to 
Cumberland county, Penn., returning to Washing- 
ton county in 1846. He then worked six months 
for William Jamison for $00, receiving $9.50 per 
month the latter part of the year. From these 
scanty wages he managed to save some money, 
and the next year rented the farm and fixtures, 
which he worked for one third of the crops, re- 
ceiving $10 per month when not busied with the 
crops. The following year he rented the farm for 
three seasons, paying an annual cash rent of $250. 
At the expiration of that time lie rented a farm 
near West Middletown, this county, and marrying 
Miss Nancy Meloy, November 19, 1857, began 
housekeeping. The young people resided there 



three years, when he purchased a farm in Buffalo 
township, this county, where he lived three years, 
then selling out, bought his present well cultivated 
farm of 179 acres, situated near Buffalo village. 
Mr. Cunningham has been a very successful busi- 
ness man, having amassed a comfortable com- 
petence, but unlike many who have achieved suc- 
cess in this life, he has not neglected to prepare 
for a future home, and lay foundations for a " house 
not made with hands. " He and his wife are de- 
voted members of the United Presbyterian Church 
at West Middletown, Penn., taking an active in- 
terest in both church and Sabbath -school work. 
He has served as a member of the board of trustees, 
also attended to much of the financial business of 
the church, and has ever given liberally to the sup- 
port and upbuilding of the cause of Christianity. 
Political life has no charm for Mr. Cunningham, 
although he evinces an intelligent interest in the 
leading questions of the day. He was formerly a 
Whig, and upon the organization of the Republican 
party espoused its principles, being a strong op- 
ponent of shivery. Mrs. Cunningham is a cult- 
ured and refined lady, highly esteemed by all 
who have the pleasure of her acquaintance. 




I'OHKMAN HUGHES, a retired agricult- 
urist, than whom none is better known in 
his township, or more highly respected, is 
a native of the county, born Febuarv 5, 
1822, in South Strabane township. 

John Hughes, grandfather of Workman Hughes, 
was a native of New Jersey, born of Irish ancestry, 
and when a young man moved to Carlisle, Penn., 
where he enlisted in the Continental army; in July, 
1775, his company was formed, with eight others, 
into a battalion of riflemen. Mr. Hughes partici- 
pated in the disastrous expedition to Canada under 
the command of Col. Arnold, and was present at 
the attack on Quebec. He remained in the army 
to the close of the struggle, rising from the ranks 
to captain. After the war he came to Washington 
county, where he subsequently (in 1784) bought a 
tract of land on what is known as Hughes' branch 
of Ten Mile creek. In 1S02 Mr. Hughes pur- 
chased a lot on Main street. Washington, and in 
L 809 two lots on Maiden street. He was a car- 
penter by trade, which he followed at Washington 
for a considerable period from 1784. and also at 
Ten-Mile creek. For some fourteen years he was 
captain of a company that guarded the Surveying 
Corps. On retiring from active life, he settled in 
Amwell township, where he died September 15, 
1818, aged sixty eight years. 

Samuel Hughes, father of Workman Hughes, 
was born January 23, 1786, in Amwell township, 
this county, where he was married to Mary Work 
man, who was born January 13, 17S0, in the build- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



469 



ing that afterward became the first depot for the 
Baltimore & Ohio Railroad in Washington; she 
was a daughter of Hugh Workman, who settled in 
the borough many years ago. Mr. and Mrs. 
Hughes after marriage made their home in Wash- 
ington borough until 1820, in which year they 
came to South Strabane township, where they re- 
mained until 1850, and then went to Iowa. The 
names of their children are Margaret, Elizabeth, 
Hugh W. , Samuel, Sarah, Mary, John, James, 
Workman, Martha and Jackson. Mr. Hughes, in 
addition to his farming interests, followed carpen- 
tering for some years. He was a member and 
liberal supporter of the Disciple Church of Wash 
ington, and in politics he was an active Democrat. 
He died October 2, 1862, aged seventy-six years, 
his wife, Mary, on March 10, 1802, aged seventy 
years. 

The early life of the subject of this memoir was 
passed at the paternal home, his education being 
secured at the subscription schools of the neighbor- 
hood, which was held in an old, abandoned log 
dwelling. On June 3, 1847, he was married to 
Rachel, daughter of Matthew Taylor, and their 
union has been blessed with the following named 
children: Samuel T., James W., John H., Will- 
iam, Mary (Mrs. B. F. Closser), Nannie J. and 
Rachel (Mrs. William Myers). The mother of 
these children dying May 12. 1802, Mr. Hughes 
married, March 15, 1864, Miss Margaret, daughter 
of Samuel Vance, but she departed this life August 
22, 1879, and in December, 1880, the bereaved hus- 
band took unto himself a third life partner in the 
person of Miss Martha, daughter of John Scott. 

After his first marriage Mr. Hughes remained mi 
the old home place till 1850, when he moved to 
the other farm and resided there until 1863, in 
which year, having bought the old McGiffin prop- 
erty, he removed to Ten-Mile, where he made his 
home until 1879, when he came into the borough 
of Washington, and has sinca resided, having built 
his present commodious residence. The family 
are members of the First Presbyterian Church at 
Washington. In politics Mr. Hughes has been a 
life-long Democrat, and in 1870 he was elected 
director of the poor for a three years' term; he 
has also held various township offices with credit to 
himself and satisfaction to his constituents. 



CHARLES O'CONNOR, one of the best- 
known representative citizens of Donegal 
township, claims his descent from one of the 
kings who, at an early period of the history 
of Ireland, governed the provinces, and who were 
subject to the "Ard-Righ," or monarch of the 
whole, who usually resided at Tara, in the County 
Meath, Province of Leinster. 

The grandfather of our subject (also named 



Charles O'Connor) was a native of County Kildare, 
Ireland, born about (he year 1740, and was there 
married to a Miss Simpson, also a native of the 
Emerald Isle, who bore him three children: Patrick, 
John and Mary Ann. This wife dying in 1788, 
Charles O'Connor married, for his second wife, a 
Miss Hughes (an aunt of the late Archbishop 
Hughes), of New York, and by this union three 
children were born: Martin, Bridget and Winifred. 

The parents both died in Ireland, the father in 
1832, and all the children emigrated to America, 
except Martin, who died in his native land. 

John O'Connor, who was the second son of 
Charles O'Connor by his first marriage, was born 
in 1786 in County Kildare, Ireland, where in early 
life he learned the trade of a weaver, serving a 
seven years' apprenticeship, afterward following 
same there until 1816 when he came to America. 
Landing at Philadelphia, he there carried on his 
trade one year, and in 1817 moved to Pittsburgh, 
thence to Washington borough, this county, where he 
secured work as a laborer on the National pike, then 
in course of construction. Here his steady habits and 
honest dealings were soon recognized, and it was 
not long before be was promoted to overseer of the 
work between Washington and West Alexander, a 
position he held with great credit until the comple- 
tion of the road, frequently being entrusted with 
large sums of money for the "pay sheet." In 
1820 he was married to Eliza Aston, who was born 
in Lancaster county, Peun., in 1800, and the chil- 
dren by this union were fifteen in number, as fol- 
lows: Samuel (died in 1889 in South Dakota), and 
Charles, John, George and Martin, all of whom 
died young; Charles (our subject); Mary Ann, who 
died in 1858; one that died in infancy unnamed; 
John, in the employ of the Baltimore & Ohio Rail- 
road Company, and living near Claysville; Mar- 
garet, living near Dunlap, Iowa; Elizabeth, a 
spinster; a son deceased in infancy unnamed; 
Teresa, deceased wife of William Coyne, died 
December 28, 1887; Martha, who died in 1865 
while attending Mount-de-Chantal College, near 
Wheeling, W. Va., and a twin sister to Martha 
who died young. After leaving the National pike 
Mr. O'Connor purchased a farm about two miles 
northeast of West Alexander, known as the " Old 
Higgins farm," where he followed agricultural 
pursuits up to the time of his death, which 
occurred March 22, 1872, his wife following him 
to the grave May 1, 1875. They were both mem- 
bers of the Catholic Church, and in politics he was 
a Whig originally, but in later years voted the 
Democratic ticket. John O'Connor was a cousin 
of the eminent lawyer, Charles O'Connor, late of 
the New York bar. 

Charles O'Connor, of whom these lines chiefly 
treat, was born September 8, 1830, in Donegal 
township, this county, where he was reared to farm 



470 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



life, receiving his rudimentary education at the 
common schools. He then attended, for two years, 
the academy at West Alexander, under the head 
preceptorship of Rev. Father McClusky, after 
which he was for some time a student at St. Vin- 
ceut College, near Latrobe, Westmoreland Co., 
Penn., which is in charge of the Benedictine 
Order. On April 15, 1857, Mr. O'Connor was mar- 
ried to Margaret Hickey, a native of County Kil- 
kenny, Ireland, born in 1836, to which union there 
are no children. She died October 25, 1888. 
After marriage our subject settled on a farm in 
Donegal township, one mile east of West Alexan- 
der, immediately adjoining the National pike, 
where he is yet living, carrying on general farm- 
ing with marked success. His home is a model of 
neatness and good order, entirely attributable to his 
good taste and untiring energy. Mr. O'Connor is 
a typical representative of the race from which 
he sprung, and, although over sixty years of age, 
can do as good a day's work as many a younger 
man. In politics he is a Democrat, and in religion 
a Catholic, being one of the substantial support- 
ers of the Claysville Church. 




W. CUMMINS is a well-known citizen of 
Chartiers township, Washington county, 
having achieved an eminent and unusual 
success in his chosen vocation as an auc- 
tioneer. He has followed this business 
over eighteen years, his first trial having been 
made in March, 1874. Mr. Cummins is of Scotch 
descent (a country noted for the thrift and energy 
of her people, is "Bonny Scotland"'), his grand- 
father having immigrated to America many years 
ago. He settled in Mt. Pleasant township, Wash- 
ington Co., Penn., rented a farm of Mr. McElroy, 
who was blind, but had perfect confidence in his 
tenants who lived there for thirty-three years. 
Mr. Cummins was a member of the Presbyterian 
Church at Miller's Run. 

Robert Cummins was born August 19, 183fi, in 
Mt. Pleasant township, this county, and in early 
life was married to Maria Dougherty, who was 
born on a farm that stood exactly on the line be- 
tween Pennsylvania and Virginia. The Dougher- 
tys were early settlers of Virginia, where John 
Dougherty (father of Maria) grew to manhood and 
was married to Margaret Wilson. They lived and 
died near the Pennsylvania line in Virginia. To 
the union of Robert and Maria (Dougherty) Cum- 
mins three children were born : A. W. (subject of 
this sketch), Elizabeth (wife of John Patterson, of 
Cross Creek township, this county), and Thomas 
(living on the farm with his brother, A. W.). 
The mother died in 185'.), and for his second wife 
Robert Cummins was married to Esther Jane, 



reared in Chartiers township, daughter of John 
Howell, an early pioneer of Finley township, who 
passed his life in this county, dying about the year 
1882. He was a strong and powerfully built man, 
in robust health, and died very suddenly. His 
widow is yet living in McConnell's Mills. Robert 
Cummins followed farming in both Chartiers and 
Mount Pleasant townships. In politics he was an 
ardent Republican, and in church connection a 
Presbyterian. 

A. W. Cummins (the subject proper of this 
sketch) was born June 15, 1853, in Mt. Pleas- 
ant township, this county, being reared on the 
farm and educated in the country schools. On 
February 22, 187G, he was united in marriage 
with Jane Ann, daughter of Hugh and Jane (Shaw) 
Sprowl, the wedding taking place at the home of 
the bride in Harrison county, Ohio. Hugh Sprowl 
was born in 1823, and at the age of twelve years 
came with his parents to Harrison county, Ohio. 
In early manhood he was married to Jane Shaw, 
and settling on a farm in Harrison county, re- 
mained there all his life. He died in 1874, fol- 
lowed by his wife in November, 1881. 

After his marriage to Miss Sprowl, A. W. Cum- 
mins attended Duff's Commercial College for some 
time, and in 1877 settled at McConnell's Mills, 
engaging in the mercantile business, which he con- 
tinued until 1885, soon becoming an expert sales- 
man. He then began his prosperous life as an 
auctioneer and agriculturist, the latter vocation 
serving to aid the former profession, as a farmer 
would naturally know whereof he spoke, in esti- 
mating the qualities and value of an animal. In 
April of 1889 Mr. Cummins moved to the old Mc- 
Elroy homestead of 103 acres, which was settled 
over a century ago, the house having been erected 
many years. His property has been acquired by 
tireless industry, vim and perseverance, coupled 
with an eloquent flow of language when describ- 
ing goods, which gift has proved a valuable acqui- 
sition both to himself and those who have needed 
his services. He began the world at an early age, 
and undaunted by the harsh experiences of life, has 
been a ' : hustler" from the first. He owns nearly 
all the good buildings in McConnell's Mills. He 
is dealing extensively in stock, making a specialty 
of raising the National Delaine Merino sheep, sell- 
ing nearly $2,000 worth of that breed last year. 
He is also raising Jersey cattle, and ships large 
quantities of both kinds of stock to all points 
north, east and west. He is an active member of 
the Republican party, being chairman of the Re- 
publican, committee in Chartiers township. Mr. 
and Mrs. Cummins are members of the Cros-s 
Roads United Presbyterian Church at Chartiers. 
The children born to their union are as follows: 
Nora Belle, Andrew Irvin, George Dilworth, How- 
ard Leslie, Hugh Sterling and Laura Jane. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



471 




B. BELL is descended from an old Scotch- 
Irish family who fled from Londonderry, 
Ireland, to Scotland, during the religious 
persecution. From Scotland they emi- 
grated to New Jersey, where William, the 
first pioneer of the name, located. His wife's 
maiden name was Lea. 

John Bell, son of the William Bell above men- 
tioned, was born in the year 1732. He was mar- 
ried to Elizabeth, a daughter of Robert Boyd, and 
on April 7, 1793, purchased from William Luckie 
a farm in Cecil township, Washington Co., Penn., 
where he spent the remainder of his days, and died 
in 1809. 

Robert, son of John Bell, was born in Lancaster 
county, Penn. He served in the Revolutionary 
war, entering the service when about sixteen years 
of age. On May 29, 1788, he was united in mar- 
riage with Rachel Espy, by whom he had seven 
children. In the year 1793 he purchased from 
Anthony Boly the farm in Peters township, which 
is to this day in the possession of his descendants. 
He died October 17, 1849, aged about eighty-five. 
Of the seven children born to Robert and Rachel 
Bell, John married Nancy Porter, of Clarion county, 
Penn. , to which county he removed soon after his 
marriage. Here he died, leaving behind him a 
large family. Thomas married Nancy Scott, and 
died in Clarion county. Elizabeth married Benja- 
min Coe, who moved to Jefferson county, Ohio, 
where she died. William married Jane Caldwell, 
and died in Richland county, 111. Robert mar- 
ried Susannah Tidball. James married Sarah 
Reasoner, and moved to Richland county, 111., 
where he died. Ann married William Barr« and 
spent the last years of her earthly pilgrimage in 
Nottingham township, this county. 

Robert, son of Robert and Rachel Bell, was born 
and died on the home farm in Peters township. 
He first saw the light of day in 1801. He grew to 
manhood under the parental roof, and on August 
28, 1828, married Susannah, daughter of Abraham 
Tidball, of Allegheny county, Penn. He died 
December 11, 1890. His children were: Rachel 
(died in infancy); John B. (married June 24, 
1869, Sarah Ann Dunlap, of Cecil township, and 
have one son, Robert Francis Bell); Robert Boyd, 
unmarried, living at present on the home farm; 
Sarah, married June 19, 1804. to Robert Gillespie, 
M. D., and died August 29, 1868, leaving one son, 
Lorenzo James Gillespie; Abraham T. , a graduate 
of Washington and Jefferson College, class of 1870, 
also of Western Theological Seminary, Allegheny, 
Penn., class of 1872 (at the present time (1893), 
he is preaching in Indiana county, Penn. ; was 
married May 8, 1872, to Mary Watson, by whom 
he has had two children, one daughter, Sarah 
Emma, is living); Susannah, married James John- 
ston, of Cecil township, Washington county, 



November 24, 1874, and died March 7, 1892, leaving 
a husband and live children — three sons and two 
daughters. The farm is. still in the possession of 
the family. It contains 105 acres of excellent land 
situated in a bend of and nearly surrounded by 
Chartier's creek. The Chartier's railway passes 
through and under a portion of the farm. 




HARPER SIMANTON. In tracing the 
genealogy of this prosperous agriculturist, 
we find that the family have been prom- 
inent residents of Pennsylvania for many 
years. 

Peter Simanton (the grandfather) was born in 
Northampton county, Penn. , and about the year 
1795 was united in marriage with Margaret Mc- 
Farren, also a native of Northampton county, born 
December 26, 1764, the wedding ceremony being 
performed by the Rev. Asa Dunham. In 1810 
Mr. and Mrs. Simanton moved to Cherry Valley, 
Washington county, and September 9, 1811, bought 
344 acres of the original Cherry tract, which be- 
came their home. He was a Whig in politics, and 
in church connection both he and his wife were 
members of the Raccoon Presbyterian Church. 
They were the parents of three children, of whom 
the following is a brief record: Jennie, born in 
1800, was married to Samuel Farrar, and died in 
September, 1882 (her children were John, deceased 
in Smith township; Robert S., living in Mt. Pleas- 
ant township; William McFarren, deceased in Jan- 
uary, 1892, at Cambridge, Guernsey Co., Ohio; 
Aaron, deceased in 1873, Mt. Pleasant township; 
Samuel L., deceased in 1891. Washington, D. C. ; 
Julia A., deceased in 1885, wife of John McElroy; 
and Simanton, living in Mt. Pleasant township); 
John (of whom a sketch follows) and Isabella (wife 
of Robert Johnston, of Smith township), died some 
years ago, having reared three children, viz. : Mar- 
garet A. (Mrs. Finley), William and John, all 
three now residing in Missouri. Peter Simanton 
was a soldier in the Revolutionary war. He died 
in 1826, at the home of his grandson, and his wife 
passed away June 5, 1S35. 

John Simanton was born in 1802, in Northamp- 
ton county, Penn. In 1810 he came with his 
parents to Cherry Valley, Bit. Pleasant township, 
Washington county, where he was reared and 
educated. In early manhood he was married to a 
Miss Ramsey, and settled on the old home farm 
in Mt. Pleasant township, where three daughters 
were born to him: Margaret, wife of William Camp- 
bell, of Midway, Penn.; Isabelle. Mrs. Robert Pat- 
terson, of Bolivar, Westmoreland Co., Penn., and 
Martha Jane, who died when young. The mother 
died soon after the birth of her youngest child, 
and Mr. Simauton married, for his second wife, 
Eliza Allen, who was born in 1806, in Greene 



472 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



county, Perm., and came to Washington county 
with her parents in childhood. To this marriage 
one son, A. H. , was born. Mr. Simanton was an 
active worker in the Whig party, afterward uniting 
with the Republicans, and serving the party by 
rilling several township offices. He and his wife 
were members of the Presbyterian Church at Can- 
dor, this county, in which he was a ruling elder 
for many years. He died in 1871, his wife in 1884. 

A. Harper Simanton was born March 16, 1843, 
on his present farm in Mt. Pleasant township, 
passing his boyhood in attending the country 
school, and assisting with home duties. On Novem- 
ber 19, 1868, he was married to Ellen, daughter of 
( luyan Mcllvaine who was born in 1792, in Somerset 
township, on the home farm, where his early years 
were passed. He was united in marriage with 
Jane Ferguson, a native of Somerset township, 
who bore him four children: Lydia (widow of John 
Phillips, living in Greene county, Penn.); William 
Greer (deceased in 1882, at Memphis, Tenn.), was 
married in Vickbsurg; Robert F. (residing in 
Rochester, Beaver Co., Penn.); and John M. (liv- 
ing in Mt. Pleasant township). Mrs. Mcllvaine 
died in 1823, and in 1S: J ,() Guy an Mcllvaine married 
•lane Bratton, a native of Lancaster county, Penn. 
In |s:-J5 he settled in Mt. Pleasant township, on 
the home farm. To this union the following chil- 
dren were born: Harvey (residing in Kansas), 
Anna Eliza (married to William M. Campbell, of 
Cross Creek township), Joseph Lawrence (editor 
of the Advocate, New Philadelphia, Ohio), Boyd (a 
resident of South Dakota), Belle Jane (of Mt. 
1'lcasant township), James A. and Martha Ellen 
(Mrs. A. Harper Simanton), both of Mt. Pleasant 
township, and Mary Esther. Mr. Mcllvaine was 
first a Whig, then a Know nothing, and afterward 
a Republican. He and his wife were members of 
the Presbyterian Church at Mt. Prospect. He died 
in 180S, having been preceded by his wife in 1859. 

After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Simanton 
settled on the home farm in Mt. Pleasant town- 
ship, containing 200 acres of valuable land, to 
which his time is devoted. Four children have 
blessed their union, namely: .Maud, Maggie Belle, 
Walter and Jennie. Mr. and Mrs. Simanton are 
members of the Raccoon Presbyterian Church, of 
which lie is a trustee. He is a Republican. 



JAMES E. SMITH, a prominent farmer of 
West Pike Run town -hip, is a sun of Henry 
Smith, who was born in 1806, in Washington 
county, Penn., and was a farmer. 
In early life Henry Smith was married to Nancy 
Norris, a native of this county, who was born in 
1816, and they were the parents of thirteen chil- 
dren, namely: Mary A., wife of John Hilton, of 
Monongahela; Henderson; James E.; Nancy, mar- 



ried to John Reed, of Lucyville, Penn. ; Hannah 
B., wife of Joseph Bell, a Methodist minister lo- 
cated at Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; Joseph H. ; 
Lydia, wife of George Flood ; Roxanna, married 
to Edwin Sutton, of Chillicothe, Ohio; Tilly, wife 
of Nathan Thomas; Howard, living in Uniontown, 
Fayette county; Lizzie; Harrison and an infant, 
of whom the latter three are deceased. The father 
was a member of the M. E. Church, with which 
his widow is yet associated. He died May 10, 
1880, and Mrs. Smith, aged seventy-six years, is 
now residing on the home place. 

James E. Smith was born November 27, 1838, 
on the home farm in West Pike Run township, and 
grew to manhood with but few opportunities for 
securing an education. Ha was married on Octo 
ber 21, 1877, to Aquilla Palmer, a native of this 
county, daughter of Ephraim and Hannah (Bren- 
ton) Palmer, natives of Fayette county, Penn., the 
father being born in 1817, and the mother in 1818. 
Their children were Aquilla, wife of James E- 
Smith; Sarah W., married to William Johnston, 
of Fayette county, Penn.; Addison R., a Method- 
ist minister of Champaign county, Ohio; Ephraim; 
Hannah P., wife of Daniel Moore, a Baptist min- 
ister of Washington county, Penn.; James; Sabria 
(deceased) and Cornelius (deceased). Mr. Palmer 
learned the trade of barber at Brownsville, Perm., 
and continued to follow same during most of his 
life; he died inl890, followed by his wife in April, 
1892. Mr. and Mrs. James E. Smith are residing 
on a pleasant, well-cultivated farm of thirty-seven 
acres. He is a member of the F. & A. M. at West 
Brownsville. 



/T^ EORGE SWART. Among the many prom- 
I) inent agriculturists who have contributed 

V [ substantially to the material prosperity of 
^^t Amwell township, and indeed it may be 
said of the entire county, stands the worthy 
gentleman whose well-known name opens this 
biographical sketch. 

He is a grandson of the noble old pioneer, Philip 
Swart, who emigrated from Germany to America, 
locating finally, during the early part of the pres- 
ent century, in Amwell township, this county, 
where he took up what, is recognized by the family 
as the "old home farm'' of 315 acres. He had 
two children, Jacob and Susie (Mrs. Phillips), and 
died about the year 181 1 ; his wife survived him 
many years, passing away at a ripe old age. 

Jacob Swart, son of Philip t Swart, was born 
near the old home in Amwell township, and was 
educated at the local schools of his early day. He 
was married to Sarah Evans, of the same township, 
ami tlie children born to this union were: Dorothy 
(Mrs. Mustard), Philip, David, John, Polly (Mrs. 
Huston). Henry, Abraham, George, Hiram and 







:■ v *&; 




WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



475 



Charlotte. Jacob Swart died in 1815 on the old 
home farm, his wife, Sarah, on June 11, 1846. He 
was an excellent business man, and during his 
comparatively short life accumulated much prop- 
erty, leaving a fortune as an unimpeachable wit- 
ness to his characteristic energy and sound judg- 
ment. At the time of his death he owned six farms 
aggregating 1,000 acres of land. Politically he 
was a Whig, and he was respected and esteemed by 
all who knew him. 

George Swart, the subject proper of these lines, 
was born beside Ruff's creek, Greene Co., Penn., 
April 23, 1810, and when four years of age was 
brought by his father to the farm which is now the 
property of Andrew Horn, in Amwell township, 
this county. He received a necessarily meager 
education in the primitive schools of his early day, 
but he has been a diligent reader, and a devoted 
student of Biblical literature. Mr. Swart has been 
twice married, first on January 14, 1830, to Eliza- 
beth Smith, of Greene county, Penn., born October 
9, 1814, and died March 4, 1876. Their union 
was blessed with twelve children: Jacob, born 
July 13, 1831 (deceased March 3, 1833); Harvey, 
born March 30, L833 (was married Februan 22, 
1877, to Jane Arnold); Dennis born January 31, 
1836 (was united in marriage April 30, 1S57, with 
Lydia Huffman, and is now residing in Missouri); 
Simon, born January 29, 1838 (died May 3, 1848); 
Sarah, born June 19, 1840 (was married Septem- 
ber 15, 1859, to Harrison Sowers); Luciuda, born 
October 29, 1842 (March 11, 1864, became the wife 
of John Hopkins; deceased June 8, 1881); Hiram, 
born October 10, 1844 (died September 29, 1851); 
Elizabeth, born August 27, 1847 (died January 1, 
1853); Emeline, born November 5, 1849 (was 
united in marriage October 30, 1873, with David 
Baker, and died March 26, 1884); George, born 
January 20, 1853 (died August 15, 1865); Deborah, 
born February 7, 1855, died March 13, 1883 (she 
was married February 10, 1875 to James Hughes); 
and Alice L., born April 20, 1857 (on November 
1*'), 1876, she became the wife of John J. Hoffman). 
On December 4, 1877, Mr. Swart was united in 
marriage with Mrs. Ellen Hopkins, of Greene 
county, a very estimable lady, and who makes him 
a most congenial and lovable companion in his 
declining years. 

In February, 1831, Mr. Swart moved to his 
present home, where he is now enjoying a well 
earned peaceful repose from the labors of an hon- 
ored and useful life. The comfortable competence 
he possesses has been accumulated by years of assid- 
uous industry and indefatigable effort. Politically, 
Mr. Swart was formerly a Whig, afterward a Re- 
publican, and he has always taken an active inter- 
est in public affairs. He and his family have for 
many years been members of the Methodist Protes- 
ant Church. 



MITH McCREIGHT. Among the influen- 
tial and intelligent citizens of Hanover town- 
ship, none occupies or deserves a more 
promineut place than this gentleman, a native 
of Jefferson county, Penn., where he was born 
July 18, 1832. He is a son of Andrew McCreight. 
The father was born in 1787, in Ireland, and when 
but seven years of age was brought to America, and 
grew to manhood in Pennsylvania. In 1812 he 
was married in Armstrong county, Penn., to Ann 
Sharp, who was born in 1795. Her family were 
pioneers of Armstrong county. 

The children of Andrew and Ann McCreight 
were: James, a wheelwright and carpenter, de- 
ceased in 1888, at the age of seveuty-five years, 
in Armstrong county, Penn.; Sharp, a retired 
farmer of Indiana county, Penn.; Sarah (Mrs. 
Abraham Neil), of Jefferson county, Penn. ; Joseph, 
a farmer of Jefferson county, Neb., where he died; 
John, a farmer of Jefferson county, Penn.; Ann 
(wife of William Caldwell), of Clearfield county, 
Penn. ; Jane ( Mrs. Joseph McNeil), of Clearfield coun- 
ty, Penn. ; Thomas S., a farmer and miller of Jeffer- 
son county, Penn. ; Smith, of whom further men- 
tion is made; Nancy, deceased in 1891 (married to 
Benjamin Hawk); Jamison, a farmer in Kansas; and 
Hannah, an nnmarried lady, living in Kansas. 
The parents began life as tenants in a humble 
home located on Plum creek, Armstrong Co. , 
Penn., where he worked as a tenant and cropper. 
By industry he prospered, and soon accumulating 
some money, went to Jefferson county, Penn., and 
purchased a tract of uncleared land, which was 
cheaper in that county. The young couple re- 
moved to their new home, and, after much hard 
work, succeeded in clearing enough of the land to 
carry on farming. With that undying spirit of 
pluck, which is the national characteristic of the 
true Irishman, he finally obtained enough property 
to provide all necessary comforts of life, which he 
enjoyed. In politics he was an Old-line Whig, and 
then a Republican, taking an active interest in the 
success of his party. Both he and his wife were 
consistent members of the U. P. Church. He died 
in 1861, his wife having entered the "valley of the 
shadow" in 1858. They were buried on the farm 
in Jefferson county, Pennsylvania. 

Smith McCreight was reared to manhood on his 
father's farm, and there inducted into the myster- 
ies of agriculture. He attended the common 
schools, and in early life took charge of the home 
place in company with his brother, Thomas S., 
caring for the father and mother until they died. 
On March 14, 1863, Smith McCreight was married 
to Sarah E. Murphy, who was born in 1842, in 
Westmoreland county, Penn. , a daughter of James 
and Susan (McMurray) Murphy. James Murphy 
was a tailor by trade, also working on a farm. 
Mr. and Mrs. McCreight have passed all their 



476 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



married life on the old homestead farm in Winslow 
township, Jefferson Co., Penn., and his brother 
Thomas S. followed lumbering in the winter sea- 
son and farming in the summer for some years. 
They afterward purchased one-half interest in a 
grist and saw mill, and the following year bought 
the other half. As the business increased they 
made extensive improvements on the property, 
placing $1,500 worth of new machinery in the 
gristmill. Just when the business had become 
profitable the destructive fire of August 25, 1877, 
swept away all their property — 1,500 bushels of 
grain and 100,000 feet of dry pine lumber. No 
insurance was carried. This was a terrible trial, 
but their energy and enterprise were indestructible, 
and before the smoke of the debris had ceased to 
curl upward they had begun the erection of a 
modern mill. It was rapidly pushed to comple- 
tion, and within four months of the date of the fire 
these "hustling brothers" were again ready for 
customers on a more extensive basis than before 
the fire. In 1881 the mill property was disposed 
of, and Smith McCreight began farming. In the 
autumn of 1884 he purchased and moved upon 200 
acres of land in Hanover township, Washington 
county, known as the "Martin Tucker" farm. 
His enterprising and progressive spirit is evinced 
in the many improvements which have been made 
since his residence on the place. A handsome 
new dwelling was erected in 1890. It is located 
on an elevated spot, one of the highest in Wash- 
ington county, affording a most delightful view of 
the surrounding country for many miles. Mr. 
McCreight was a Whig, afterward uniting with the 
Republican party. He and his wife are members 
of the U. P. Church at Paris, and their children 
are Thomas A., a farmer of Hanover township, liv- 
ing on the home place; Clara A., studying teleg- 
raphy; Anna, and Beulah S., living at home. 



and in religion was a member of the Society of 
Friends. 

William M. Morgan was born near Baltimore, 
Md. , where his boyhood was passed. In early life 
he was married to Mary, daughter of Thomas and 
Elizabeth (Lewis) Whittaker, the former of whom 
was a native of County Fermanagh, Ireland. Mr. 
and Mrs. Whittaker had four children, viz. : Eliza- 
beth, Thomas L., John D. and Mary. After their 
marriage Mr. and Mrs. Morgan settled in Waynes - 
burgh, Greene Co., Penn., where he followed the 
trade of cooper. In 1844 he moved to Coal Centre, 
this county, and here continued in the same business 
until his death. He was a Democrat, favoring the 
Abolitionists, and in religion was a member of the 
M. «E. Church. To Mr. and Mrs. Morgan were born 
the following children: L. W., Eliza J. (deceased), 
George (living in Oklahoma), Hannah (deceased), 
aud Thomas P. (in Pittsburgh). 

L. W. Morgan was born November 5, 1830, in 
Waynesburgh, Greene Co., Penn., aud remained 
on the home place during early life. At the age 
of twenty years, in company with Solomon Sibbitt, 
he opened the first general store in California, 
Penn., conducting it for five years. On October 
27, 1857, he was married to Ann J., daughter of 
John R. Gregg, and their children were Mary W., 
P. W., William W., John, Charles, L. L., Elizabeth 
and Albert T. Of these children P. W., Elizabeth 
and Albert T. are yet living. After selling the store 
in California, Mr. Morgan followed river traffic a 
few years, then opened a grocery in Coal Centre, 
which he conducted but a few months, and return- 
ing to California invested in his present store, and 
opened a coal office. He has been a Republican, 
but has voted the Prohibition ticket since the 
organization of that party. In religious faith he 
is a member of the M. E. Church, of which he is 
steward and treasurer, and of the Sunday-school 
he has been superintendent twenty-six years. 



LW. MORGAN is a son of William M. Mor- 
gan, whose father, William Morgan, was 
| born in Maryland, and attended the schools 
of his native State, then learned the cooper's 
trade, becoming an expert in the finer parts of the 
business. W 7 hen a young man he was married to 
Hannah Matthews, a native of Baltimore, Md., 
who bore him the following children: Oliver, 
Rachel, Miriam, William M., George, Ruth (wife 
of W. W. Jackman) and Esther (married to Ares- 
lead Carroll). In an early day they came to 
Greene county, Penn., and in 1830 moved to Wash- 
ington county, locating in East Bethlehem town- 
ship near Westland Church. Mr. Morgan kept a 
hotel on the National pike, near Centreville, for 
several years, and finally moved to Coal Centre, 
Washington county, where he died at the age of 
seventy- four years. He was a strong Abolitionist, 



QEORGE TAYLOR was a son of Robert 
Taylor, who was born in 1764, and emi- 
grated from County Cavan, Ireland, in 1810. 
Three weeks before leaving the old country 
he was married to Mary Pattison, a daugh- 
ter of William Pattison, a merchant of Belfast. 

The young couple came to America to seek their 
fortunes, and locating upon a farm near Hills 
borough, this county, Mr. Taylor began working 
it on shares, finally purchasing it in 1816. The 
children born to this pioneer couple were: Mrs. Jacob 
Shepler (deceased), William (deceased), George, 
Mrs. William Robinson, Mrs. Jacob Qualk, and 
Robert (deceased). Though receiving a somewhat 
limited education in Ireland, Mr. Taylor was a 
very successful business man, and was especially 
admired for his benevolence. He was an Old- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



477 



line Whig, but never accepted office, and was a 
devout member of the Church of England. After 
passing a useful life of nearly a century, he died 
in 1859. His widow, a member of the Methodist 
Church, followed her husband to the grave in 1862. 
George Taylor, the subject of this memoir, was 
born January 27, 1816, upon the home farm where 
he now resides. He received a limited education, 
but was an eager reader until his eyesight failed. 
He remained on the farm until twenty-two years 
of age, when he took charge of a store at Hills- 
borough which he managed for three or four years, 
then sold to William Bell, and engaged in farming 
and buying stock. He has been very successful in 
this business, which he has continued to follow. 
In 1844 he married Charlotte Miller, daughter of 
Charles Miller, and their children are: Mary Eliz- 
abeth, born December 6, 1845 (deceased); Robert, 
born September 1, 1848; Mrs. Samuel Barber, 
born January 14, 1851; George William, born May 

7, 1853 (deceased); Charles Taylor, born December 
6, 1854; Clarence Baymond, born July 26, 1857 
(deceased); George William, born May 13, 1861; 
Frankie Addison, born January 19, 1864, and 
Emma Jane, born August 4, 1866. Mr. Taylor 
was a decided Republican, and, in his younger 
days, one of the most active men in the county. 
When but twenty years of age, ho was elected con- 
stable, and held that office several years. When 
about thirty -five years of age he was elected justice 
of the peace, which position he filled twenty years, 
and in 1859 was elected one of the county com- 
missioners for a term of four years. He was a 
member of the Methodist Church, with which his 
wife was also united until her death, September 

8, 1887. He died September 2, 1892. 






GADWALLADER BLAYNEY. A biograph- 
ical record of Washington county would 
be incomplete were not special mention 
made in its pages of the Blayneys, who have 
their descent from an illustrious family of that 
name, for many years residents of Ireland. Cad- 
wallader Blayney, a Welshman by birth, and a 
gallant officer in the British army of long ago, for 
meritorious services to his country was made a 
general, and soon thereafter was given an estate 
in Ireland, the mansion on which came to be known 
as "Blayney Castle," while the new occupant 
was raised to the peerage with the title of " Lord 
Blayney." This lord had a brother, a rector in 
the Established Church of England. For twelve 
generations Castle Blayney has been represented 
by a Cadwallader Blayney, that being the name 
of each succeeding son-in-heir, and the tenth Lord 
Blayney, the great-grandfather of the subject of 
this memoir, had several sons, one of whom, 
Cadwallader, became the grandfather. He was a 



wealthy landowner, and in early pioneer times 
came to America, making a settlement in Ohio 
county, W. Va., but on the death of his wife he 
made his home with his son, Henry, during the 
remainder of his life. 

Henry Blayney was born in Ireland in 1792, and 
was there married to Jane Rogers, by whom one 
child, Mary, was born in their native land. In 
1832 Henry and his family came with his father 
to this country, and here were born to him six 
more children, viz. : Hannah, Jane Cadwallader, 
Margaret, Henry, John R. and Elizabeth Ann. 
Henry Blayney finally settled in West Finley 
township, where he died on his farm in February, 
1873, honored and respected by all who knew 
him. His wife died December 22, 1847. He was 
a leading member of the Presbyterian Church of 
West Alexander, and in politics was a stanch 
Democrat. 

Cadwallader Blayney, the subject of these lines, 
was born July 12, 1829, in Ohio county, W. Va., 
where he received his education. When a young 
man he came to the farm in West Finley township, 
this county, where he has since resided, engaged 
in agricultural pursuits. When he first started 
out for himself, his uncle gave him a colt, and this 
was the beginning from which, by industry, per- 
severance and thrift he has achieved the success 
that brought him a competence for his declining 
years. His first purchase was an old water-power 
gristmill that is still standing, adjoining his resi- 
dence in Good Intent. This mill he operated 
eleven years, and then bought a farm near Good 
Intent, on which he lived six years, at the end of 
which time he moved into the village, and here 
embarked in mercantile business which he con- 
ducted nineteen years. He then sold out his store, 
and retired to his farm above referred to. Mr. 
Blayney was twice married: first time to Miss 
Elizabeth Rogers (January 13, 1853), who bore him 
eight children, viz. : John R. , Henry B., William 
L. , Ida Jane, Belleville C, Elmer E., Orange 
Griffith and Cadwallader, of whom the last two 
died in infancy. The mother of this family died 
February 2, 1872, and Mr. Blayney afterward 
married Miss Jennie Blayney, a cousin, a daugh- 
ter of John Blayney, a native of Ireland, whom 
the last Lord Blayney (who died childless) named 
as his heir, in his will. This John Blayney came 
to the "United States in 1S4S, and there made his 
home until the death, in 1875, of his wife, whose 
maiden name was Fanny Alcorn, when he came to 
live with our subject. On the death of the last 
Lord Blayney, inquiry was made for "Uncle John," 
as the heir by will was familiarly known; they 
discovered, however, that a John Blayney, a 
minister, had died a few months before, and con- 
cluding that he was the last heir, returned to 
England, and made their report accordingly. The 



ITs 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Blayney estate in Ireland, having thus no immedi- 
ate heir to it, reverted to the Crown. "Uncle 
John" Blayney is still living at the patriarchal 
age of ninety-four years, making his home with his 
daughter, Mrs. C. W. Blayney. By his second 
marriage Mr. Cadwallader Blayney had five 
children, as follows: Edward C, born July 13, 
1873; Freddie L. and a twin, born December 4, 
1875, both deceased, the former November 7, 1879, 
the latter in infancy; Harold L., born October 17, 
1879, and Fannie, born May 25, 1883, died June 
7, same year. Mr. Blayney has been very success- 
ful in all his business relations, and has accumu- 
lated a considerable amount of property, being now 
the owner of over 300 acres of prime land, also 
owning a storeroom and several dwelling houses in 
Good Intent. He is a member of the Windy Gap 
Cumberland Presbyterian Church, which he has 
served as trustee, and, socially, is popular and 
highly respected. Politically he has been a Demo- 
crat, but not active in his party, and during 
Hayes' administration, at the request of his 
Republican friends, he was appointed postmaster 
of Good Intent, which office he held until selling 
out his store. He also held various township 
offices conferred upon him by the people irrespect- 
ive of party. 

,\ILLIAM C. ROBISON, postmaster at 
Monongahela, is a native of Pittsburgh, 
Penn., and born of Scotch-Irish ancestry. 
Robert Robison, his grandfather, was born 
in Strasburgh, Penn., in 1789, and in 1825 moved 
to Pittsburgh, where he embarked in the wholesale 
grocery trade, conducting same until 1808. He 
also carried on an extensive pork-packing business, 
purchasing green meats in St. Louis and Chicago. 
He was twice married, and by his first wife had 
two children: Samuel B. and Margarette (Mrs. 
F. F. Kernan); by his second wife (who was a 
Miss Eliza Cummings), he had three children: 
Robert, Lydia and Quiuey. Mr. Robison was a 
Whig until the organization of the Republican 
party, when he enrolled himself under their ban- 
ner; in religion he was a member of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church. 

Samuel B. Robison, father of William C. , was 
also a native of Strasburgh, Penn., born in 1816. 
He became a partner with his father in the whole- 
sale grocery business in Pittsburgh, and after the 
hitter's death continued the same under the firm 
name of S. B. Robison & Co. until his decease in 
I >ei ember, 1870. In 1850 Samuel B. Robison was 
united in marriage with Rebecca Gallagher, of 
Pittsburgh, and the children born to them were 
Robert B. (in Pittsburgh), Emma. Samuel D., Will- 
iam C.,IdaB., Charles W., B. Frank, Henry C. and 
Garnet G. Mr. Robison was a Republican. During 
the Civil war he was master of transportation of mil- 




itary supplies from Pittsburgh, an office he filled 
gratuitously, although there was a salary attached. 
William C. Robison received a liberal education 
at the schools of Pittsburgh, and was afterward 
engaged in business in that city until 18SO, in 
which year he came to Monongahela City, where 
he has since resided. He is an active Republican, 
and in January, 1890, was commissioned post- 
master of that city. In 1870 Mr. Robison was 
married to Rebecca, daughter of Silas Haley, and 
the children born to this union are Silas Robert and 
Frederick. 

AMUEL YOUNG, a prosperous farmer of 
Morris township, Washington Co., Penn. , is 
a grandson of Thomas Young, who was born 



in Maryland in 1745. He was a Revolution- 
ary soldier. In 1809 he removed to a farm near 
Jefferson, Morris township, Greene Co., Penn., and 
there died in 1824. His son Thomas, father of 
subject, was born on the farm, and from there re- 
moved to Morris township, Washington county, 
where he died in 1866. 

Samuel Young was born July 9, 1830, on what 
was called Crane's run in Greene county, Penn. , 
and when about eight years old moved to Wash- 
ington county with his father. He lived at home 
until his marriage in 1854 to Rachel Carroll, who 
was born Sepember 18, 1S34", daughter of Thomas 
Carroll, of Morris township, Washington county. 
He then moved to Morris township, Greene county, 
where he remained about fifteen years; then re- 
turned to Washington county, and lived on the 
home farm until the death of his father, when he 
again moved to Morris township, Greene county. 
Thence he came to West Finley township, Wash- 
ington county (near Wheeling creek), afterward 
returning to Greene county, remained some time 
at Nineveh. He then removed to Washington, this 
county, and was for a short time engaged in 
the hotel business, when he moved to West Fin- 
le\ township, and embarked in farming. In 1888 
he purchased the well -improved farm near Mt. Zion 
M. E. church, in Morris township, this county, 
where he now resides. His children are: Samantha, 
wife of S. R. Rush, a prominent stock dealer of 
East Liberty, Penn. ; Elizabeth, wife of Warren 
Clutter, also a prominent stock dealer in East Lib- 
erty, Penn., and Florence, yet living with her par- 
ents. Mr. Young raises a considerable amount of 
stock, and makes a specialty of breeding fine sheep. 
The farm on which Mr. Young now resides was 
taken up by Richard Carroll over one hundred 
years ago; he was a native of Ireland, also the 
grandfather of Mr. Young's wife, who is of the 
third generation that has owned this farm. Po- 
litically Mr. Young is a Democrat of life-long 
standing. Mrs. Young is a member of the Cum 
berland Presbvterian Church. 



WASHINGTON CO UN TY. 



479 



/ 



H/ENRY M. SNYDEK is descended from a 
pioneer family of Washington county. He 
is a grandson of John and Margaret Snyder, 
whose early lives were passed in eastern 
Pennsylvania, where the grandfather fol- 
lowed the tanner's trade. He afterward moved to 
Washington county, and became identified with the 
earliest history of Fallowfield township. He was 
a Democrat in politics, and in church connection 
a member of the Lutheran Society. John Snyder 
died December 24, 1867, in his seventy seventh 
year, and July 23, 1876, his wife was laid beside 
him, having passed her seventy-sixth birthday. 
Tiny were the parents of six children. 

Peter Snyder was born February 23, 1 833, in 
Fallowfield township, Washington county, Peun. 
He assisted his father in the tannery from early 
boyhood, and after receiving a limited education, 
followed shoemaking for thirty-five years. I'pon 
attaining his majority he was married to Julia Ann 
Crabb, who bore hiiu the following children: Jo- 
sephine (Mrs. Stacker), Alexander, Daniel, Lu- 
cretia (Beazell), John (deceased in 1891, at the age 
of thirty-five years), Henry M. , George B., Frank- 
lin P. and James S. 

Henry M. Snyder, son of Peter Snyder, was 
born February 22, 1860, on the home place in 
Fallowfield township. Washington Co. , Penn. He 
received a common-school education, and following 
the example of his forefathers, learned the tanning 
trade. In 1882 he was united in marriage with 
Cynthia V. (Bentley) Van Voorhes, and settled on 
the fifty acres of land on the Washington pike, in 
Carroll township, where he is yet living. He was 
formerly engaged in general farming, but of recent 
years has given his principal attention to the dairy 
business. The place is equipped with excellent 
buildings, and is a pleasant, elegant home. 



/ 



HI ENRY H. McDONOUGH, M. D. a leading 
physician of Washington county, was born 
October 30, 1836, in Somerset township, a 
grandson of Henry McDonough, a native 
of Baltimore, where the family had resided 
many years. 

Henry McDonough had two brothers, also na- 
tives of Baltimore, who separated at an early age, 
the elder brother, John, going South, and, en- 
gaging in real estate speculation, became one of 
of the wealthiest citizens of New Orleans; as he 
never married, he bequeathed his property to New 
Orleans and Baltimore, each city receiving the 
same amount. The other brother, Thomas, left 
his native city in a merchant ship, and passed 
through varied scenes; he was with Perry at the 
battle of Lake Erie, and bore the title of "Com- 
modore McDonough." Henry, the youngest in 
the family, drifted westward, finally arriving in 



Washington county, Penn., and. first settling near 
West Alexander, was among the earliest pioneers 
of that locality. He married, and two children 
were born to him, but one day while he was ab- 
sent from the house, cleariug the land, the In- 
dians rushed down on the little home, and massa- 
cred his helpless wife and children. Heartsick 
and lonely, the bereaved husband and father 
traded his property for a mere trifle, and abandon- 
ing the desolated home returned to Baltimore, 
where he remained a few years. However, he 
again came to Washington county, and in 17S3 
purchased a farm in Somerset township, on which 
he resided until his death. Soon after returning 
to the county he was married to Jane Hamilton, a 
resident of the same, and to their union were born 
four children: John, Henry, Mary (Mrs. John 
Pangburn) and David. Mr. McDonough was an en- 
ergetic and enterprising man, and his life left a last- 
ing impression on the character of the community. 
In political affiliations he was a Whig, and served 
several years as justice of the peace in Somerset 
township. In religious faith he was formerly a 
member of the Presbyterian Church, and in later 
life united with the Baptists, in whose faith he 
died. 

David McDonough, youngest son of this honored 
pioneer, always resided on the home farm in Som- 
erset township, at the subscription schools of which 
he received his early education, afterward reading 
current literature. In early life he was married to 
Lavina, daughter of Adam Weir, of West Bethle- 
hem township, this county, and the young people 
then settled on the home place, where the follow- 
ing children were born to them: Joseph, Thomas, 
Adam (who died at the age of eight years), and 
Henry H. Mr. McDonough was a Whig, and after 
the organization of the party became a faithful 
Republican, and active in the work, although 
rarely accepting office. He was administrator of 
various estates in the locality, and was frequently 
selected as guardian of children, every one having 
great confidence in his integrity and ability. In 
religion he was a member of the Disciple Church, 
in which he served many years as an elder, being 
one of the most hearty supporters of that Society. 

Dr. Henry H. McDonough, youngest son of 

David McDonough, first received a common-scl I 

education, and then attended a select school con- 
ducted by Rev. Streator, near Washington. Hav- 
ing when quite young evinced an inclination to 
study medicine, he commenced reading with Dr. 
James McDonough, and with him remained some 
time, until called to take charge of the home by 
the death of his father. He managed the home 
place for several years, then returned to the study 
of medicine with Dr. Winnett, attending at the 
same time medical lectures at Long Island College. 
He completed his course at Cleveland, in March, 



180 



WASHINGTON, COl \ I ) 



[876, and then commenced practicing in Waynes 
burg, 1 1 reene 0o.,l Vim , remaining there, however, 

bul four i itlis, when he settled '>n tin* borne 

place in Somerset township, Huh oounty. On 
October 22, 1861, the Dootor was united in mar 
riage with Elizabeth, daughter of Jonathan Win 
nett. This \vifi< dying March 6, L879, he married, 
Ootober 24, 1882, Margaret L. , daughter of S. B. 
Lindley, and they bave bad two children: Ann Es- 

telle and Charles L, Dr. MoDonough remai I 

on the borne farm fifteen years, enjoying a large 
and lucrative praotioe, and in L891 be oame to 
Claysville. In politios he is a pronounoed and 

getic Republican; in religion he is a member 

<>r the Disoiple Church. 



M, 



DAVID MoDONNELL. A.mong the influen 
i i:ii farmers of Hanover township, this gen 
1 1. •inan deserves prominenl mention. He is 
a son of Barnett McDonnell, whose father 
was Patriot Morgan McDonnell. 

The last mentioned anoestor was horn in County 
Tyrone, Ireland, where be married, and reared two 
daughters, Martha Jane (Mrs. John Jackson, of 
Hanover township) and Eleanor (wife of John 
Davis of Morgan oounty, Ohio). About IT'.M this 
family came to America, and with liis limited sav 
ings, Patrick McDonnell purchased a small traol 
of Ian. I near King's creek in Hanover township, 

When 1 1 Bsential log cabin was ereoted, be began 

the work of felling the giant oaks. ll« served in 
the war of 1 s I ti. and participated in the historical 

Mora vian massacre at Gnadenhutten, 'Tuscarawas 
Co., Ohio. The rude cabin was in due time sup 

planted by one more oommodious, which is yet stand 
ing. lie was a Catholio, but as there were no 
churches of that denomination in that wildoountry, 

bis family wore not reared in the Catholic faith, 
lie and his wife lived to advanced ages, and lire 

buried in the Florence oemetery. They were the 
parents of tour children, the two youngest baving 

I n born in America, viz.: Harnett, of whom 

further mention is made, and one son who died in 
earl\ childhood. 

Harnett McDonnell was born in lT'.Hi, in Hanover 

township, Washington Co., I'enn., where he at - 

tend... I the subscription schools and worked on his 

father's farm. In early life lie married Nancv 

Kimble, who was b irn near II iokory, in this oounty. 

She bore him live children, namely: Elizabeth, 

widow of David Logan; John, a blacksmith, died 
at Steubenville, Ohio, when about thirty years of 
age; William, was never married, and died on the 
old place; George, went to Iowa ill L850, and was 

a soldier in the Rebellion (he died of typhoid fever 

in Te ssee), and .Martin I,., a cabinet maker, 

drowned in the Ohio river, at Steubenville, Ohio, 

The mother of these children .lied and was buried 



at Florence. For his second wife Harnett McDon- 
nell was married to Ituth Jackson, a daughter of 
Joseph and Hannah (Russell) Jackson, of Hanover 

township. Their children were: Etezin (a farmer 

of Hanover township), J ackson (deceased ), Samuel 
(a shoemaker, wenl to California during the gold 
fever and died there), Alexander (a farmer of Han 

over township), David (our subject ), Nancvl widow 

of Caleb Gretzinger, of Hancock < nty, W, Va.), 

Hannah (wife of Asa OwingS, of Missouri) and 

James (living in Texas). The father passed his 
whole lite on the home farm where his parents had 
settled. He died July 3, 1ST7, and was followed 

by his widow in IS7K. Both are buried in the 
Florence oemetery. He was a member of the 

I ' n He. I rresbylorian Church, his second wife being 

identified with the Methodist Episcopal Sooiety, 

In politics he was a Democrat, having held Various 
offices in Hanover township. 

David McDonnell was born March 25, 1838, OH 

llie.. 1. 1 place which he owns. The old house in 
which he was born (built in I S 1 2 ) is yet standing. 
He attended the schools of the day, also assisting 
with such work as could be done by a boy of his 
age. In early manhood he went to Steubenville, 
Ohio, to learn the trade of a shoemaker. After a 
short lime he was transferred to Cadi/, Ohio, to 
complete his trade. Hater lie took a trip through 
the West, visiting the States of Iowa, Indiana and 

Illinois, but returning, resumed his trade at Cadiz, 

Ohio, and finally located in Hanover township, 
Washington Co., I'enn. He married Elizabeth A. 
diss, June 25, IN(1'_'. She was born December lie, 
184-0, in Eanover township, a daughter of Henry 
and Mary (Kyland) Criss, The great grandfather 
of Mrs. McDonnell (one John Criss) was born in 
Germany. Among his children was a son, Jacob, 
who grew to manhood and reared a family of chil 
dien, among whom was Henry Criss. 'The latter 
was born in 1815, and when a young man was 
married to Mary Kyland, a native of Maryland, 
who came to Washington county with her parents, 
Fredus and Elizabeth Kyland, when an infant. 
.\l rs. McDonnell was the third in a family of eleven 
children bom to Henry and Mary Criss. 

Mr. and Mrs McDonnell began wedded life in 
Hanover township, where he followed his trade. 
On March 22, 1865, be enlisted at New Brighton, 
I'enn., in Company E, One Hundred ami Third 
P. V. 1. His services were needed bul a brief 

time, for as the command was en route to North 
Carolina, Johnston surrendered, and June 25, 
isi'io, be was honorably discharged, and returned 

to his native county. He then located on a small 
tract of land lying one mile northwest of Florence, 
and there followed his trade, giving si attention 

ts I-. 

to fanning. By economy he prospered, and in 

L879 moved to the old McDonnell homestea,!, 
where he was born and has since resided, devoting 



HJNGTO 






I : 
tak'-r, the old place it hi 

a wonderful el 
furnished with natural ga 

room of the bon 
venient and pleasant home, lit 

crat, but not i fre- 

quently rated I 

.f and to 
fctituen'-. J;-/ - '. ;.<: ■-■- I i, - '' ::.' • ' ::. 

The children of tb 
i re ii'!.ry iJ 

Maryland; a. 

Be n.ar 
l'-r. of J: 
' xj/irrt peomao pub- 

! 
studj .• 

' the J'- 

.'ark, 
ijear V.V. -• 



JOHN' 8 KICHOLL, a - leeessful farmer of 
Nottingham township . and 

of Sampson NichoJl. 
Nicboll -j in 1750 in [relai 

red •/ith all his 
head 

j! his adopt" 
war b [red a pa':k train, and final 

:arm in Somerset township, Wasbb . 

'■ 
farm in 

July 2. 
. M m Bache D 

- 

■re born I 
' I - 

-r all hi- 
affairb of the - ed April 1. . 

.ildren. 

old I 

and was mar/ 
rah J., daughter of John . 
this eouni 

■ 
- ':'. and Fra:.k BL, at borne with 
their pare. 1 - Osear 1. Rachel J. and Sarah Jane 
are • ■ • Mr. Nicboll dea 

• eJy in ^heep, buying them in the East, and 



•■hipping b 
I - g 

died 

I 

rJ H'-:> f 

John. Jr., Mai 
Sarah J. Dag 



I SHELBY ' I 

J' 
Crall, ho' 

1 -:■. ' ' .';•- . 

I 
who bore him ofaildri 

Elizabeth, 
Charles, Jesse and Mary, if-- ■-. - a farm- 

■Ir Crall wat 

inty, 

. 

ged in the 
butchering bn 
died. He 

■ 

■ 

fair 

orked in 

rg 

- 
. ,-je marr. 

■ 

him four 
child- Ruth. 

He 

wife returneo In his church 

Budd 

marr. i the 

children b he folkra [Duel, 

Elizabeth (Mrs. Jacob Yorhe ... all 



482 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



deceased; Mary (Mrs. Samuel Mattocks), Hannah 
(Mrs. Charles (Jrall), Morgan (married to Sabina 
Lam), Henry (married to Elizabeth Crall), Ann 
(wife of William Thatcher), Abraham (married to 
Sarah Jacobs), Mezula (wife of James McKean), I. 
Shelby and Owen. Mr. Gaskell was a Democrat, 
and in religion a member of the Free-will Baptist 
Church. After marriage Mr. and Mrs. Crall made 
their new home in Belle Vernon, where he was 
employed in a boatyard for some time; then moved 
to Crawford county, same State, from which, after 
a residence of two and one-half years, he came to 
nearMonongahela City where be conducted a black- 
smith shop, etc., as already related. He died here 
June 22, 1881, a prominent member of the Cum- 
berland Presbyterian Church, in which he was an 
elder, but later in life he joined the Methodist 
Episcopal Church. The children born to him 
were Budd (deceased), Isaac Shelby, Louisa, 
Lucinda, Cassie, Elizabeth, Mezula, Samuel, Etta 
and Belle. 

Isaac Shelby Crall was for the most part reared 
and educated in Monougahela City. When twenty- 
six years old he went to New York, and there took 
steamer for California, but on February 27, 1852, 
the vessel was wrecked off the Mexican coast. In 
that country he remained six weeks, and then pro- 
ceeded, again by water, to his destination. He 
was engaged there as superintendent of The Ameri - 
can Hydraulic Mines, and was one of the first to 
blast rock under water. He conducted a large 
mine there for twenty-four years, in the course of 
which time he made six ocean trips and two by 
overland route. On his final return home, in 1 ST:', 
he embarked in his present industry, having, in 
1868, bought the farm where he now carries on a 
lucrative business. On January 10, 1861, Mr. 
Crall married Sarah E., daughter of James Somer- 
ville, of Jeirerson county, Penn., and three chil- 
dren have been born to them: Charles S., Maud 
A. (Mrs. Harry Griffith) and James S. Politically 
Mr. (Jrall is a Democrat, and in his church con- 
nections he is a Presbyterian. 



"I frlKAM SWART, the wealthiest land-owner 

LaJ in Amwell township, and one of the most 

prominent retired agriculturists of Wash- 

j -* ington county, is a native of Greene county, 

V Pennsylvania, burn February 12, 1812. He 

is a grandson of the noble old pioneer, Philip 
Swart, who emigrated from Germany to America, 
locating finally, during the early part of the pres- 
ent century, in Amwell township, this county, where 
be took up what is known by the family as the "old 
home farm" of 315 acres. He had two children, 
Jacob and Susie I Mrs. Phillips), and died about the 
\ear 1811. His wife survived him many years, 
passing away at a ripe old age. 



Jacob Swart, son of Philip, was born near the 
old home in Amwell township, and was educated at 
the local schools of his early day. He was married 
to Sarah Evans, of Amwell township, and the chil- 
dren born to this union were Dorothy (Mrs. Mus- 
tard). Philip, David, John, Polly (Mrs. Huston), 
Henry, Abraham, George, Hiram and Charlotte. 
Jacob Swart died in 1815, on the old home farm ; his 
wifeon June 1 I, 1846. He was an excellent business 
man, during his comparatively short life accumu- 
lating much property and left a fortune; an unim- 
peachable witness to his characteristic energy and 
sound judgment, owning at the time of his death 
six farms aggregating one thousand acres of land. 
• Politically, he was a Whig, and he was respected 
and esteemed by all who knew him. 

Hiram Swart, of whom this sketch more partic- 
ularly relates, was brought by his parents to Ten- 
mile creek, Washington county, Penn., and was 
here reared after the manner of most farmer boys 
of his early day; his educational training being 
received in the primitive schools of his locality. 
The first property owned by him consisted of 160 
acres of land in Amwell township, representing his 
share of 315 acres deeded by his mother to him and 
his brother Philip; and he afterward purchased 
the latter's portion. To this nucleus of 315 acres 
he, from time to time, by industry, hard work, 
indefatigable energy and careful thrift, added, 
until now he is the possessor of over one thousand 
acres of prime farm land. 

Mr. Swart has been thrice married. His first 
wife was Miss Charlotte McGinnis, to whom he 
was married December 6, 1845, anil of this union 
one child, Henry Clay, was born September '-'. 
1846. At the close of the war of the Rebellion 
he left his home, since which time he has not been 
heard from. Mr. Swarfs wife dying October 25, 
1846, his second marriage was in 1851, to Margaret 
Keys, and two children were born to them: Sarah 
Ann, born October 12, 1853, died June 8, 1891, 
and Jacob, born February 3, 1856, died at the age 
of six weeks. The mother of these children died 
March 16. L856, aud December 1, 1859, Mr. Snail 
was married to his present life companion — Mary, 
daughter of Enoch and Mary (Goulden) Hastings. 
who were natives of Virginia, coming to Pennsyl- 
vania and locating at Washington about 1815; 
they were the parents of nine children, Mary being 
born June 13, 1832. Five children have come to 
gladden the home of Mr. and Mrs. Swart, a- Eol 
lows: Mary Emma, born September I I. I860; 
Allison Dupont. born October 11, 1862; David 
Henderson, born October 7, 1864; William Hiram, 
born January 21. 1869, and Margaret Vance, born 
November 28, 1871. 

Mr. Swart has ever been in sympathy with the 
principles of the Whig and Republican parties. 
He and his amiable wife have long been members 




L*~4sO^?t/ 



^WTl-d/fc 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



485 



of the Presbyterian Church. During a continuous 
residence of three-quarters of a century in the 
beautiful region where he has had his home, Mr. 
Swart has necessarily seen many important changes, 
improvements and developments around him, and 
now, near the close of a useful, industrious and 
honored life, he has left the farm and removed to 
Washington, Penu., where he expects to peacefully 
end his days. It may be truthfully said of him 
that he stands as one of the few remaining links 
between the pioneer days of hardships and trials 
and the mighty present, teeming with wonderful 
achievements, and foreshadowed by the possibili- 
ties of still greater triumphs in the future. 




Ii AEON THOMAS GREGG. In the year 
|\ 1836 there arrived in Mouongahela (then 
called Williamsport) two brothers, Nimrod 
Alfred Gregg and Aaron Thomas Gregg, 
both natives of near Brownsville, Payette 
Co., Penu., the former born April 15, 1813, the 
latter July 26, 1815. 

They were house plasterers by trade, which 
they carried on for some time after coming to 
Mouongahela, but Nimrod abandoned it and entered 
into mercantile business with Hampton Kerr, with 
whom he remained for a time, after which he 
moved to West Newton, Westmoreland Co., Perm., 
where he carried on a grocery and drug business 
up to the time of his death, which was brought on 
by consumption. He married Mary Jane Hamil- 
ton, of Mouongahela, who died in Adair county, 
Iowa, leaving three children: Margaret, Harriet 
and Aaron Thomas; Mrs. Gregg was a daughter of 
Joseph Hamilton, an innkeeper, in Mouongahela. 

Thomas Gregg, grandfather of Nimrod Alfred 
and Aaron Thomas Gregg, was a son of Samuel 
Gregg, a native of Ireland, who married Elizabeth 
Alford, both dying in Loudoun county, Va. The 
names, dates of birth, etc., of their children are as 
follows: Thomas, October 25, 1743, died in Fayette 
county, Penn., in 1821; Priscilla, September 8, 
1745; John, October 14, 1747; Rebecca, February 
24, 1749; Ruth. April_23, 1752; Israel, March 2, 
li">t; Ann, May 5, 1(56, died in Greene county 
Penn., July 20, 1817; Samuel, April 18, 1758; 
Aaron, June 17, 1761 (he served as an officer in 
the American army twelve years; was present at 
St. Clair's defeat, and participated in Gen. 
Wayne's great victory at the battle of Fallen 
Timbers on the Maumee river, August 24. 1794; 
he died in 1803 at Fort Adamson on the Missis 
sippi); Elizabeth, born April 15, 1863. Of this 
family, Thomas married Amy Gre^g, and they 
settled in Fayette county, Penu., on Dnnlap's 
creek, one mile from Brownsville. Amy Gregg's 
people settled in Greene county, same State, near 
the town of Carmichael's, and being Quakers in- 



termarried, as was their custom. One record says 
that John Gregg and some of his children settled 
iu Greene county, Penn. His children were Mary, 
Hannah, Amos, Amy, George, John Richard (died 
in Greene county November 15, 1812), Lydia, and 
Rebecca (who was married to Frank Geaton, and 
moved to Vincennes, Ind. , where they died). Of 
these, Mary married a Mr. Nixon; Amos married 
Priscilla Gregg; Amy married Thomas Gregg; 
George married Ruth Gregg; Richard married 
Ann Gregg. The Greene county Greggs were of 
Scotch descent. 

When Thomas and Amy (Gregg) Gregg settled 
in Fayette county, Indians were still hostile to the 
whites, making raids on the settlers, and the latter, 
including the Greggs, had often to rlee to Ricket's 
fort, near where Merrittstown now stands. Thomas 
Gregg and wife were iu the fort when a man 
named Morgan was attacked by two Indians a 
short distance from the blockhouse; Morgan killed 
both the Redskins, and the soldiers of the fort 
skinned the dead bodies, and tanne*d the hides to 
make sword belts. The children born to Thomas 
and Amy Gregg were: (1) Samuel, (2) John, (3) 
Nimrod, < t) Thomas, Jr., (5) Ruth, (6) Mary and (7) 
Dinah. (1) Samuel married Margaret Ball, and 
their children were Noah. Israel, John, Thomas, 
Minerva, and Priscilla; Samuel was a trader on the 
river to New Orleans; his children moved to 
Circleville, Ohio. (2) John married Margaret Allen, 
and had three sons — Carlton, Ashton and Thomas; 
John died in Fayette county; they then located 
at New London, Ohio; Margaret died at the 
patriarchal age of one hundred and four years. (3) 
Nimrod married Katie Johnson, and had children — 
Bani, Elihu, Zilla and Lizzie, of whom the sons 
are deceased, the daughters married and settled in 
Ohio. (4) Thomas. Jr.. married Mary Miller, and 
had two sons: Nimrod Alfred and Aaron Thomas; 
Thomas, Jr., started to cross the mountains with a 
team, in 1815, but at Emmitsburg, Md., he was 
taken sick and died; his widow afterward married 
('apt. George Gregg, of Greene county, Penn., 
and by him had one daughter that died young; 
the mother was carried off by a fever in 1819, while 
a resident of Bridgeport; her father and mother 
were in Ricket's fort at the time Morgan killed 
the two Indians, as already related. (5) Ruth 
married David Wo.nl. of Winchester, Va. , and had 
seven sons who grew to maturity — Addison, 
Thomas, Joseph. John, Samuel, David and Jesse — 
of whom Samuel lives in Bridgeport, Fayette Co., 
Penn., and is the fat her of Charles B. Wood, M. D., 
of Monongahela. (6) Mary married Judge Igna- 
tius Brown, and moved to Lebanon, Ohio. (7) 
Dinah married John Gregg, and had the following 
named children: George, Amy, Caroline, Mary, 
Harriet. Harmon. George died in Fayette county, 
the rest moved to Ohio. There are two accounts 



ISC, 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



about Thomas and Amy (Gregg) Gregg's move- 
ments: one states that they went to Fayette county 
from Chester county. Penn., while the other avers 
that they moved from the Shenandoah Valley, Va. 
Samuel and Elizabeth (Davidson ) Miller came from 
Chester county, Penn., near where the battle of 
Brandywine was fought. 

Aaron Thomas Gregg, the subject proper of 
this sketch, learned the trade of plasterer with 
George D. Stevenson, in Uniontown, Penn. In 
IS II he married Catherine, daughter of Joseph 
Caldwell, for many years an innkeeper in Monon- 
gahela, and (hey had eleven children — seven sons 
and four daughters — of whom one. son, Joseph 
Caldwell, died in his tenth year; those now living 
are 1 1 1 Idesta Fidelia, (2) George Alfred, (3) Eliza 
Jane, (1) William Thomas, (5) David Swartz, (6) 
Charles Carroll, (7) Catherine Leilla, (8) Mary 
Cooper, (9) Ubert Miller, and (10) John Caldwell. 
Of these (1) Idesta Fidelia married Lewis Bollman, 
and they moved to Bloomington, Ind. (they had 
one sou, Charles Harvy, who died at Way Cross, 
Ga. , and his father died in Bloomington; the 
widowed mother is now at her father's); (2) 
George Alfred and(6) Charles Carroll are married 
and live at Chehalis, Wash ; (3) Eliza Jane is at 
home, unmarried; (I) William Thomas married 
Lenora Fell (they have no children; he collects toll 
at the Monongahela river bridge); (5) David Swartz 
is single, and now lives in Monongahela; (7) Cathe- 
rine married John L. Kirk, powder agentat Sbarps- 
burg, Penn. (they have three children, one son and 
two daughters); (8) Mary Cooper married William 
I. Beaver, and they live in San Bernardino, Cal. 
(they have two sons and one daughter); ('••) Albert 
Miller married Lilly Le Masters, and they have five 
little daughters; (10) John Caldwell is a lieutenaut 
in the Sixteenth Regiment United States Army, 
now stationed at Fort Douglas, Utah (he went to 
West Point in IS83, and graduated in 1887). 

Aaron Thomas Gregg served as adjutant and 
major of the Thirty-seventh Regiment Pennsylva- 
nia Militia; in 1855 he was elected a justice of the 
peace, serving live years; in 1859 he was elected 
colonel of the Second Regiment Uniformed Mili 
tia. Third Brigade Seventeenth Division; in 1862 
he aided in recruiting Company E, One Hundred 
and Fortieth P. V. I., served at its captain till 
after the battle of Chancellorsville, and was honor- 
ablv discharged at Falmouth, Va., June 3, 1863, 
on account of age and consequent disability. Mr. 
Gregg is a Republican, and in 1873 he was elected 
an alderman of Monongahela, and served five years. 
He belongs to the* M. E. Church; has been a mem- 
berof the I. O. O. F. since 1853, and is a member 
of the G. A. R. Post, No. 60, and of the Loyal 
'Legion. Mr. Gregg taught school two winters 
(1839 and 1840) near Monongahela. In 1849 he 
crossed the Plains to the California gold mines, in 



Capt. Ankrim's company, which left Pittsburgh 
March 15, 300 strong, on the steamboat "Con- 
signee," Captain Lockwood. He started with 
mule teams from St. Joseph, Mo., and was gone 
two vears. 



dOHN S. WILGUS was born at Perryopolis, 
Fayette Co., Penn., October 28, 1823, a son 
I of John and Diadamia (Dannelly) Wilgus, 
the former of whom was born in New Jersey , 
September 12, 1786. 

Samuel Wilgus, grandfather of John S., was 
also a native of New Jersey, where he was roared 

and educator!. Ho married Miss Rhoda , 

who bore him four children: William, James, 
Edmund and John. He died in his native State. 

John Wilgus, father of John S., was educated 
at homo by his mother, and by close application to 
books, became, considering hie inferior advantages, 
a remarkably good scholar. He afterward moved 
to Perryopolis, Penn., of which place he was one 
of the first justices of the peace, an office at that 
time of no inconsiderable importance. In the 
political movements in his section he took a deep 
interest, and he was prominent in his party, firs! 
as a Democrat and later as a Whig; in church con 
nection he was also active as a life member of and 
local preacher in the Methodist Episcopal Society. 
In New Jersey he had married Diadamia, daughter 
of Joseph Dannelly, who came to Pennsylvania 
with Mr. Wilgus in 1806. The children born to 
this union were Joseph, Lorenzo D., Melissa, 
Louisa, Charlotte, Emily, John S., Diadamia, 
Rhoda and Hidda. Mr. Wilgus died in Pennsyl- 
vania in October, 1871. Whilea resident of Perry- 
opolis ho road medicine and law, and for several 
years practiced as a physician. He was the first 
one to suggest the building of the Union Pacific 
Railroad in a letter to James K. Polk, then Presi 
dent of the United States. 

John S. Wilgus passed his youth at the old 
home in Perryopolis, and there received a liberal 
education. In after life ho followed clerking and 
merchandising, (hi September 21, 1845, he mar- 
ried Barbara, daughter of Samuel Hunter, of West 
morelandcounty, Penn., and seven children blessed 
their union, viz.: T. B., of whom a brief sketch 
follows; Melissa A. (Mrs. D. M. Hart); June (de- 
ceased); Eva (Mrs. William Beatty); Dora (Mrs. 
Krepps); Blanche (Mrs. Fred Mason, now Mrs. 
Crawford), and Etta. Mr. Wilgus was originally 
a Whig, and cast his first vote for Henry Clay; on 
the formation of the Republican party, he enrolled 
himself under its banner, and he was also a mem- 
ber of the Know nothing party. He held various 
offices in different localities: in 1873 he was ap- 
pointed postmaster at Brownsville, Penn. On 
coming to Monongahela City in 1880, he embarked 



ir.l,S7//.\7,'7'OA- COUNTY. 



487 



in the grocery trade, which he conducted until 
1800, when he discontinued the business, and was 
elected an alderman of the city. Mr. Wilgus is 
an earnest member of the Disciple Church, and 
takes an interest in all matters tending to the ad- 
vancement and prosperity of his town, county and 
State. 

T. B. Wilgus was born in Fayette City, Penn., 
April 12, 1846. Schooling in Brownsville, Penn. 
He clerked on the steamers "Franklin" and 
" Telegraph," on the Monongahela river in 1801, 
1862 and 1863; clerk of steamer "Mercury" 
( L864) which was in the Government service, carry- 
ing troops and commissary stores up the Cumber- 
land river to Gren. Thomas' army, at Nashville, 
Tenn. Then steamboated until I860, on the 
Ohio and Mississippi rivers. In 1870 he married 
Bessie M.. daughter of Jerman Jordan, Esq., ami 
their children were: Maud (deceased), Blanche and 
Frances. Mr. Wilgus was in mercantile business 
in Pittsburgh, Indiana and Brownsville (all in 
Pennsylvania), until 1878. In L879 he went to 
Leadville, Colo., and Denver, and made a success 
of mining. In 1881 he returned, and was an active 
broker of the Pittsburgh Oil Exchange until L885. 
He was proprietor of "Hotel Wilgus," Mononga- 
hela, for six years, to 1892. He lias been a mem 
ber of the Masonic Fraternity since 1S70, belong- 
ing to Ionic Lodge, No. 35, A. F. & A. M., of 
Leadville, Colo., Chapter No. 2, Denver; and Cum 
mandery No. 1, Knights Templar, of Denver, Colo. 



PROWLS FAMILY. Over one hundred 
years ago there emigrated from Ireland to 
Pennsylvania two brothers, John and James 
Sprowls, who, after a short sojourn at Car- 
lisle, came to Washington county, where James 
settled on a farm in East Finley township. He mar 
ried a Miss Enlow, who had come to America at the 
same time as her husband, and they had children 
as follows: Melinda (married to Joseph Martin), 
Cyrus, Jesse, John, Simeon and James. The 
father of this family died in East Finley township 
in I 837, the mother in 1865, at a very advanced age. 
Simeon Sprowls, son of the old pioneer James, 
was born in East Finley township in 1822, and, as 
he was but a boy when his father died, was taken 
care of and reared by Albert Squires, in Morris 
township, where he learned the trade of carpenter. 
He worked at this throughout, the county till 1848, 
when he bought a farm adjoining the one on which 
he was born, and during the rest of his life fol- 
lowed agricultural pursuits. He died in June, 
at the age of fifty-six years, of typhoid 
his widow is yet living on the old home 
Simeon Sprowls was a man above the 
average; he was well educated, and had, moreover, 
strong native talents. He was a Democrat in poli- 



tics, and held many positions of trust in the com- 
munity in which he lived. He was married in 
East Finley township to Mary, daughter of Hugh 
Montgomery, and the following named children 
have been born to them: Oliver M. , in West Fin- 
ley township; Albert S. , of whom special mention 
will presently be made; Harvey B. , on the old 
homestead in East Finley; George B., a merchant 
in Claysville; Ruth E., at home with her mother; 
Jennie M. , married to Christian Plant, of Clays- 
ville; and William M., at the old home, caring for 
his widowed mother. 

Albert S. Sprowls was born July 3, 1854, in 
East Finley township, Washington Co., Penn., and 
was reared on the home farm, attending, during 
the winter mouths, the common schools of his dis- 
trict. At the age of eighteen he commenced study 
at Waynesburg College, where he spent a few 
summer seasons, his winters in the meantime being 
occupied in teaching country schools. In Febru- 
ary, 1875, he went to Mt. Union College, in Ohio, 
where he graduated in the classical course in 1877. 
He had registered as a law student with Alexander 
Wilson, Esq., Washington, in L876, and after 
graduation read law with him. In September, 
1879, he was admitted to the bar of the county, 
and in 1S81 commenced the practice of his pro- 
fession in Washington, in partnership with T. F. 
Birch, which continued till INNS, when it was dis- 
solved by mutual consent. Since then our sub- 
ject has carried on (lie business alone. He is a 
Democrat in politics, and in ISS'J, when Robert E. 
Pattison was running for governor, he was chosen 
chairman of the Democratic County Committee. 
He worked with unflagging zeal for the cause, and 
was in every election precinct duringthat fall. In 
1 883 he receivec I the nomination for district attor- 
ney. While at college he was a member of the 
Delta Tau Delta Fraternity, and is a ls< > a V. <k A. M. 



1878, 
fever; 
place. 



IT LBERT OSBORNE WILSON, prominent 

//' l\ among Washington county's most success- 
f/^\\ ful young agriculturists, is a descendant of 
II one of the oldest families in this section. 

Benjamin Wilson, the youngest of five 
brothers, was a native of New Jersey, born June 
25, 1751, of Scotch-Irish parentage; he married in 
1770, Esther Correll, also a native of New Jersey, 
born June 29, 1750. The three children by this 
union were Joseph M., born March 9, 1771; Sarah, 
born March 10, 1774 (married to one Giles, died 
March 1, 1846), and Margaret, born September 
14, 1778. The mother of these passed away De- 
cember 16, 1782, and the father married a second 
time (the full name, date of birth and marriage of 
this wife are not recorded, but it is known she died 
February 16, 1811). Nine children were born to 
this marriage, two in New Jersey, viz.: Benjamin, 



4S.S 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



born January 11, 1788, and Samuel, born July 9, 
1790, died June 14, 1X18. In 1793 Mr. aud Mrs. 
Wilson came with their children to Washington 
county, Penn. , then a vast wilderness, and entered 
laud about one and a half miles east of Prosperity, 
in Morris township, where they set about to pre- 
pare themselves a comfortable home. Benjamin 
Wilson was a weaver by trade, which he followed 
in conjunction with attending to his farm, though 
the number of inhabitants in the section at that 
time was not sufficient to give him steady employ- 
ment in that line. After coming to this county 
the following children were born to him: Eliza- 
beth, born September 18, 1794, died December 
27, 1X59; Jeremiah, born December 11, 1797, died 
November 8, 1804; Jacob, born August 4, 1800 
(no record of death); William B., born April 24, 
1803, died November 11, 1804; Esther, born May 
19, 1805, died January 19, 1889; Nathan, born 
July 7, 1807, died March 8, 1X53. and John, born 
February 23, 1810, died April 10, 1811. Esther 
Wilson (who died in 1889 in her eighty-fourth 
year) resided with her nephew, John C. Wilson, 
the father of A. O. Wilson, for thirty-three years, 
and with A. O. Wilson for the last seventeen years 
of her life. Benjamin Wilson, Sr., died May 24, 
1839, having been bed-ridden for rive years. He 
was married a third time, this wife being Barbara 
Orr, who died November 29, 1X55. She was blind 
for several years prior to her death. The pioneer 
Benjamin, made three trips to New Jersey, after 
locating in Pennsylvania, each trip requiring about 
twenty-one days, the last being made about 1X10. 
On one occasion he brought back from New Jersey, 
in the old-fashioned saddle bags, the nails to roof 
a dwelling which he constructed shortly afterward: 
they were of the old flat jointed variety of wrought 
nails, and may still be found on the premises, now 
in possession of William Elliott, 

Benjamin Wilson, Jr., the eldest child born to 
Benjamin Wilson and Mary Wilson, was five years 
of age when his parents removed to Washington 
county. He learned the trade of a weaver, and was 
also practically tutored in the knowledge of farm 
work. On March X, 1X10, he married Mary Pru- 
den, who was born May 17, 17X2, and to their 
union six children were born: Pruden, John C, 
Hannah, Gabriel, Mary and Eliza. The mother of 
these died July 22, 1828, and Mr. Wilson shortly 
afterward removed to Greene county, Penn., where 
he married, March 1, 1832, Maty Dewberry, to 
which union six children were born: Ephraim, 
Rhoda, Jaoob, Luella, Samuel and Sarah Jane, all 
of whom lived to maturity. The surviving mem 
bera of the two families are as follows: Hannah, 
wife of .James Fry, of St. Louis, Gratiot Co., 
Mich.; Ephraim, of Morris township, Greene Co., 
Penn.; Rhoda (widow of William Dewberry), re- 
siding in Virginia; Jacob, a resident, of Illinois; 



Samuel, living in Nebraska; Sarah Jane living 
near Jollytown, Greene Co., Penn. 

John C. Wilson, the second son of Benjamin 
Wilson and his first wife, was born May 11, 1X1 fi. 
He received a fair education, and assisted his father 
on the farm in Greene county. At the age of six- 
teen years he went to live with and care for his 
grandfather Wilson, who was growing an almost 
helpless invalid. After the hitter's death (as before 
mentioned) in 1839, John C. gave his attention to 
farming, and on January 28, L846, married Mary 
O. Wilson, born December 21, 1817, a daughter 
of John Wilson, of Washington, Penn. They 
reared a family of five children, viz. : Albert Os- 
borne; Mary R., born October 5, 1848, married 
Moses Wiuget, and resides in Morris township; 
George M., born July 31, 1X51, married Clara 
Breese, and resides at Lindley's Mill; Oliver, born 
August 15, 1X54, married Viola Hanna, and also 
resides at Lindley's Mills; Sarah, born July 2, 
1858, married Lindley Headley, and resides in 
Tyler county, W. Va. The mother died February 
25, 1863, and the father July 29, 1872. For five 
years previous to his death Mr. Wilson was totally 
blind. For twenty years be was an elder in the Pres- 
byterian Church of Upper Ten Mile at Prosperity. 

Albert Osborne Wilson was born December 7, 
1X4H. He received a common-school education, 
and at the age of eighteen began learning the shoe 
maker's trade, at. which he worked three winters, 
assisting his father on the farm in the summer. 
On June 14, 1868, he married Lavina Sanders, a 
daughter of Thomas Sanders, of Morris township, 
aud to them three children were born: Isadore, 
June 21, 1870; Elsie Ann, June 24, 1873, and 
Edna Viola, January 3, 1880. In 1876 Mr. Wil 
son purchased the farm where he now resides, 
about two and a half miles north of Lindley's 
Mills, but did not remove thereuntil 1882. He is 
a successful business man, and a public-spirited 
citizen. In politics he is a Democrat, and he and 
his wife and three children are members of the 
Upper Ten -Mile Presbyterian Church at Pros- 
perity, of which he has been an elder for ten years. 
He has now in his possession a hynmbook, bearing 
publisher's date of 1792, the family Bible and 
record, which belonged to his great-grandfather, 
Benjamin Wilson. It bears the name of the book- 
seller from which it was purchased one hundred 
years ago, also the cost mark, which was £1 17s. 
fid. From this volume the family have obtained 
an accurate record of the early ancestry of this 
family. 

J JEFFERSON P. DUVALL. TheDuvall fam- 
I ily, of which the subject of these lines is a 
J well-known member, has for many years been 
closely associated with the progress and im- 
provement of Washington county. 






\y, ^Jj^z^yzsa^L/ 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



I'.U 



Alexander and Elizabeth Duvall were natives of 
Maryland, descended from French ancestors. They 
camo to America many years ago and located on a 
farm in Washington county, Penn., where Alex- 
ander died at the age of eighty-live years. Of his 
children are named John, David, Jacob, Lewis, 
Eli, Jehu, Hiram and Elizabeth, all now deceased. 

Jacob 'Duvall was born February 17, 1789, on 
the old home farm in Washington county, Penn., 
where he grew to manhood. In 1810 he was married 
to Jane Patterson, who was born January 29, 17D7, 
and their children were Mary (wife of Moses Bil- 
ingsley |, Harriet (married to Robert Duvall, a resi- 
dent of Appanoose county, Iowa), Sainantlia (wife 
of Lewis J. Weaver, a farmer of EaHt Pike Run 
township), Jefferson P. (the subject of this sketch), 
Alexander, Harrison, Emily, Jane, Thomas, Ruth 
and two unnamed. Of this family are yet living 
Mary, Harriet, Samantha and Jefferson P. The 
father was a prominent agriculturist, and died in 
L864, the mother having passed away ten years 
prior to his demise. v 

Jefferson P. Duvall was born April 10, 1830, in 
East Pike linn township, Washington Co., Penn., 
and remained on the old place during his youth, 
securing a common-school education. In early life 
he learned and followed the trade of millwright, 
and then ran a gristmill near Goal Centre for several 
years. On July '27, 1851, he was united in mar- 
riage with Sarah Robison, who was born November 
9, 1830, in West Pike Run township, Washington 
Co., Penn., a daughter of Hiram Robison, who 
was born August 19, 1804, and when a young man 
was married to Sarah Zook, who was born Juno 
22, 1803. They were the parents of twelve chil- 
dren, viz.: Thomas, Tyre, Sarah (Mrs. Duvall), 
Salem, Isaiah, Hannah (wife of Mark Eagye), John, 
John (deceased), Kliza (deceased), and three who 
died in infancy. Tint father, who was a farmer, 

died September 23, 1S1I0; the mother was laid to 
rest November 2 1, 1882; both were members of the 
M. E, Church, and in politics ho was a Democrat. 
To the union of Jefferson P. and Sarah (Robison) 
Duvall the following children have been bom: 
Thomas; Jane, wife of Allen J. White; Melissa, 
wife of John B. Carson; Jacob; Hiram; Ells- 
worth, and Harrison and Jefferson (twins). Mr. 
Duvall owns a good farm of one hundred acres, 
with good improvements thereon, and the place 
among the old settlers is known as the old liedall 
homestead. Mr. Duvall owns 180 acres in another 
tracf in East Pike Run township, [n politics he 
is a Republican, and has served as school director, 
lb" is a charter member of the F. & A. M. Lodge, 
No. 461, Coal Centre, and holds the office of junior 
warden; his first membership in the Fraternity 
was in 1802 at Brownsville, Penn. He and his 
wife are members of the M. E. Church. 



d| V. REA is a representative of one of the 
pioneer families of Cross Creek township. 
I Alexander Rea was born in the North of Ire- 
land about the year 1700, emigrated to Amer 
ica and settled on t he eastern shore of the Dehi 
ware, within the confines of New Jersey, in 1734; 
but it is not known when or where he died or was 
buried, nor can an account be given of any of his 
family except his son. 

Samuel Rea, son of Alexander Rea, was born 
in 1734 in New Jersey, soon after the arrival of 
his parents from Ireland. It was his boast that he 
was begotten in Ireland, bred on the ocean and 
born in America. At an early age he settled on 
Martin's creek, in Lower Mount Bethel township, 
Northampton Co., Penn.. and owned a tract of 
land lying between Martin's creek and the Great 
Bethel Church (Presbyterian). He was a colonel 
in the Revolutionary war, which commenced in 
1775. He was married to Ann Met 'racken, Sep 
(ember 22, 1701, and to Rebecca Nelson Decern 
ber 10, 1782. He died September 19, L813, in his 
eightieth year, and was buried in Great Bethel 
graveyard. The marriage with Rebecca Nelson 
was without issue, but the following children were 
born to him by his wife Ann McCracken: William, 
intermarried with Jane Mason; Sarah, with Robert 
Lyle; Janet, with Mr. Sillimen; John, with Re- 
becca Cox; Alexander, with Miss Jones; Isabel, 
with Jephtha Orison; Mary, with William McKib 
lien; Ann, with Rev. George M. Scott, grandfather 
of ex-President Harrison's wife (deceased). Ann 
McCracken died .March 27, 1781, aged forty five 
years. 

William Rea. the grandfather of J. V. Rea, was 
a farmer. He was born in Lower Mount Bethel 
township, Northampton Co., Penn., September 13, 
I7<>2, and was married to Jane Mason January 21, 
1788; crosseil the Alleghany mountains to Wash 
ington county, Penn., in 1789; lived and taught 
school one winter one and one-half miles west of 
the town of Hickory, in Mount Pleasant township; 
in March, 1790, he purchased a tract of [and in 
the adjoining township of Cross Creek, from 
George Marquis, situated about half way between 
Cross Creek village and West Middlefown, being 
part of a patent entered by Col. James Marshall. 
He was appointed and sent as one of a committee 
of three bytheWhisky Insurrectionists in 1794, to 
meet the "United States army at Braddock's Fields., 
sent for the subjection of the Insurrectionists. He 
was appointed by the governor of Pennsylvania in 
1823, a justice of the peace for the townships of 
Cross Creek, Hopewell anil Mount Pleasant. He 
died September 28, 1835, aged seventy-four years, 
ami was buried in tin' Presbyterian graveyard at 

Cross Creek. The following nai 1 children were 

born to his marriage with .lane .Mason: Annie, 



492 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



intermarried with David Campbell; William Mason, 
Sr. , with Elizabeth Campbell; Elizabeth, with 
George Campbell; Sarah, with Rev. Joseph Vin- 
cent; Rhoda, with Robert Allison; Isabella, with 
William Beatty; Jane, with Joseph McNary; 
Samuel, died in 1821, aged twenty-one years; John, 
died in 1822, aged twentyyears; Mary, died in 1800, 
when sixteen months old; Jane Mason, the mother, 
died September 18, 1S54, aged ninety years. 

William Mason Rea, Sr., was born March 16, 
1790, in Cross Creek township, on the farm on 
which he lived and died. His death took place 
June 27, 1865. He married Elizabeth Campbell 
December 26, 1811, and to them were born the 
following children: John C, born March 19, 
1813, intermarried with Mary Ann Lyle October 
16, 1835; William, born December 19, 1815, un- 
married; Joseph V., born June 22, 1818, married 
Eliza Ann McElroy November 26, 1840; Jane, born 
June 4, 1823, intermarried with Cyrus Wells, De- 
cember 22, 1842; Elizabeth, bom April 19, 1828, 
married William T. Kerr June 27, 1849; C. C. 
Rea, born April 28, 1S34. married Catherine Cook, 
November 27, 1856; Marv, born February 21, 
1821, died October 21, 1821, and Samuel, born 
April 1, 1830, died February 1, 1839. William 
Rea died December 7, 1884; Elizabeth died De- 
cember 5, 1883; Jane died September 26, 1853; 
John C. died September 24, 1882. William Ma- 
son Rea, Sr., died June 27, 1865, his wife, Eliza- 
beth on August 21, 1868. 

John C. Rea's family is as follows: James L. 
married Lizzie Anderson, to whom one daughter 
was born (all deceased); William M. married 
Martha Keys, to whom four daughters were born 
(after her death he married Nannie A. McElroy, 
to whom four sons were born); Samuel Jefferson 
married Sarah Jane Graham, to whom four sons 
and two daughters were boru (one son now de- 
ceased); Lizzie married D. M. Pry, to whom two 
sons and three daughters were born (Lizzie is de- 
ceased); Aaron L. (deceased) married Ageline 
Keys, and to them one son (deceased) and one 
daughter were bofn; Joseph V. (deceased) married 
Clara White, who became the mother of two 
daughters; Mary married John Pry, and to them 
one sou and one daughter were born; Alice M. 
married Ewing Mc Wreath, and they had two sons 
and one daughter; Eliza A. married J. D. Cook, 
and had one daughter (now dead) and one son. 

J. V. Rea's family is as follows: Alexander M., 
a physician and surgeon of West Middletown, 
married Tamer A. Cochran, and had one daughter 
(wife and daughter are both deceased; by his 
marriage with Mrs. Coulter three daughters were 
born, one of whom is dead); William M., married 
to Maggie J. Acheson, had two sons, Joseph V. 
and William A. (wife died May 1, 1873); Nancy 
Jane was married to J. W. McDowell, Esq., and 



to her were born two sons, Joseph Rea and John 
Wilton, and one daughter, Fleda Estella (de- 
ceased); Jane was married to Cyrus Wells, and 
had four sons and two daughters (one daughter 
deceased) as follows: Alexander Franklin, married 
to Annie Berry, has four sons and three daughters; 
William, married to Miss Robison, had four sous 
and one daughter; John, married to Clara Ams- 
poker, had three sons and one daughter; Joseph, 
married to Annie Sheppard, had two sons; Ruth 
A. , married to Clinton Morton, had two sons and 
one daughter. Elizabeth (Rea) Kerr's family is as 
follows: Ella Kerr, married to Theodore Camp- 
bell, had no issue; Isaac Kerr, married to Matilda 
Neal, had two sons and one daughter; Elizabeth 
Kerr had one son and one daughter (deceased). 
C. C. Rea's family comprised Mary Elizabeth, mar- 
ried to John N. Smiley (has two sons and two 
daughters); Florence Ida, married to William Mar- 
shall (has one son); Winifred Eloine, married to 
William Buchanan (has two sons and one daugh- 
ter); Effie Leouin, not married; Charles Maynard, 
single; Jennie Evelrena, married to Wilmer Cum- 
mins (had one son and one daughter); Tamer 
Catherine, Ella Alberta, Iva Viola, all three single. 




H. JONES was born in Monongahela, 
Penn., January 23, 1848, a son of T. M. 
and Elizabeth Jones. He is a worthy 
and intelligent representative of one of 
the oldest and most prominent of the colored 
families of the city. 

Educated in the schools of his native town, there 
was developed in him a love for literary pursuits, 
a result of which is a library of excellence and 
value, and a well-informed man. In his early days 
Mr. Jones held various positions in the service of 
the Pittsburgh & Brownsville Packet Company, 
but desiring to go into business for himself he 
resigned and returned to his home, where he has, 
in various ways, rendered much service to his 
people and city. He has been to some extent 
identified with the politics of his city and county, 
for several years serving on the county committee, 
his services being recognized by his election as 
city clerk in 1887, in 1SS9, in 1890 and in 1892, a 
position he has uniformly filled with dignity and 
credit. In June, 1891, Mr. Jones was nominated 
by the Republicans for a county office (jury com- 
missioner), and at the succeeding election, was 
accorded a handsome majority, leading the entire 
county ticket. 

In 1871 our subject married, but was unfortunate 
in the loss of his amiable wife in 1889. Two sons, 
the fruit of this marriage, are living, the eldest , 
Harry, holding a lucrative position in the Govern- 
ment service; the younger, Fred, a student in the 
schools of Brownsville, Penn. A barber by pro- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



493 



fession, Mr. Jones owns the finest equipped parlors 
in the Valley, doing a prosperous business; in 
addition to the offices heretofore mentioned, held 
by Mr. Jones, he is corresponding secretary and 
member of the board of management of the Western 
Pennsylvania Charitable Association, correspond- 
ing secretary First District S. S. Association, and 
for several years served as on officer in Company 
F, Tenth Regiment National Guards of Pennsyl- 
vania. He also is identified with Church and Sun- 
day-school work. Mr. Jones enjoys the respect 
and esteem of the community in which he lives, 
and is recognized as a man of ability, and a good 
citizen. 



djOEL PATTERSON BLAYNEY. This gentle- 
I man, one of the wealthy and influential citi- 
) zens of West Finley township, is a lineal 
descendant of Cadwallader Blayney, a Welsh- 
man by birth, and a gallant officer in the British 
army, who for meritorious services to his country- 
was made a general, and soon thereafter was 
given an estate in Ireland, the mansion on which 
came to be known as " Blayney Castle," while the 
new occupant was raised to the peerage with the 
title of "Lord Blayney." Cadwallader had a 
brother, whose baptismal name is forgotten, a 
rector in the Church of England. 

John Blayney, grandfather of Joel P., came 
with his family, in 1795, from his native Ireland 
to this country, making his first settlement in Ohio 
county, W. Va. Among his children was one Ed- 
ward, who was born in the Emerald Isle, in 1785, 
and. as will be seen, was ten years old when he 
came to the United States with his father. Ed- 
ward assisted in the duties of the farm his father 
had settled on in Ohio county, W. Va., until his 
marriage with Miss Betsey Potter, of the same 
county. To this union were born four children, 
viz.: Joseph, died in West Alexander, Penn.; 
David, died in Morrow county, Ohio; Matilda, died 
in Ohio county, W. Va. ; and Eliza, died in Mor- 
row county, Ohio. The mother of these children 
dying, Mr. Blayney married, for his second wife, 
Miss Nancy Patterson, of Ohio county, W. Va., 
'laughter of Robert Patterson, a native of Ireland, 
who came to America in pioneer days, settling in 
Ohio county, where he passed from earth at the 
advanced age of ninety-six years. By this union 
there were eight children, as follows: Robert, 
married to Jane Campbell, and living in Tuscola, 
Douglas Co., 111.; Edward, married to S. J. Pat- 
terson, and residing in Osage county, Kans. ; Joel, 
deceased in infancy; Joel Patterson, our subject; 
Mary Jane, died in Ohio; Isaiah, married to Nancy 
Floyd, in Nebraska; John McKinley, married to 
Sarah Jane Wheatley, and living in Washington, 
Penn. ; William S., married to Anna Robinson, of 



Ohio county, W. Va., and died April 1, 1875, iu 
West Alexander, this county, where his widow is 
yet living. Mr. and Mrs. Edward Blayney resided 
in Belmont county, Ohio, four years, then returned 
to Washington county, and died at the home of the 
subject of this sketch, he dying May 3, 1851, the 
mother some years later. 

Joel Patterson Blayney was born April 13,1829, in 
Belmont county, Ohio, where he lived with his father 
until he was five years of age, when the family 
moved to Washington county, Penn., settling near 
Independence. After a four years' residence there 
they came to Good Intent, West Finley township, 
afterward moved to Marshall county, W. Va., and 
thence to the farm where he now lives in West 
Finley township. Here he was united in marriage 
April 27, 1854. with Joanna Frazier, daughter of 
Alexander Frazier, of whom the following interest- 
ing sketch appeared in the Pittsburgh Leader at 
the time of his death: 

Alexander Frazier, the oldest man in Washington 
county, who died last week, was born in Donegal town- 
ship in 1792. When In- was twelve years old he spout 
some time with his grandmother, Mrs. Nancy Ross. One 
morn in l:- he, for some childish reason, pleaded to go home, 
and was allowed t" have hi- wish. That day Mr-. Ri sb 
was cruelly murdered by the Indians, and in all proba- 
bility her grandson would have met the same fate bad 

he I n with her. In his old age Squire Frazier Mill 

looked back at this as a providential escape. In 1799 he 
attended the Srs1 school taught tn the township by Mr. 
McDonald, whose work consisted in teaching the pupils 
from " Diller's Spelling Book," the Bible and the shorter 
catechism. In 1811 he cast his first vote, and since thai 
time has not missed an election, being all his life a 
6trong Democrat, having voted for every Democratic nom 
inee for President from Madison to Hancock. The 
greater part of Mr. Frazier's life was spent on a farm 
between West Alexander and Good Intent. For a num- 
ber of years he was justice of the peace, and was a 
pioneer Squire Mayes. Once lie was offered as a mar- 
riage lee a si bill, witli the remark, "take your change 
out of this;" in another case, a backwoods bridegroom 
offered to split, rails. In both cases the generous-hearted 
Squire refused the proffered payment. Mr. Frazier was 
married three time-., and has ten living children, thirty- 
nine grandchildren, and seventeen gnat grandchildren, 
making a total of sixtj six descendants, many of whom 
are in tin- West. Squire Frazier was very generous with 
his means, and assisted generously in the building of 
three churches. No need}' person asked aid of him in 
vain. He was a true Christian in profession and practice. 
We will not soon forget the familiar form and cheerful 
words of Squire Frazier, linked, as he was, with the in- 
fancy of our country. 

It may here be added that the Fraziers are de- 
scended from Lord Alexander Frazier, a Scotch 
peer, who won fame in the seventeenth century by 
defending the rights of the Barony of Lovat. 

To Mr. and Mrs. Joel P. Blayney were born 
eight children as follows: Albert, born in 1855, 
married to Dessie Malone; Sophia S., born in 1857, 
married to William B. Gibson; Lillie M., born in 
L860, married to William Egan; Clement A., born 
in 1802, died in infancy; and Edward E., Charles 



494 



1 1 ,1 SH1XGT0N CO UN TV. 



A., Lizzie A. and S. Rice, bora in 1865, 1869, 
1871, 1876, respectively, all living in the paternal 
home. Mr. Blayney is a living example of what 
patience, perseverance, resolution, steadfast integ- 
rity and strict attention to business will accomplish 
in t lie proper channel. He commenced life with 
but $700, to-day he is the owner of 535 acres of as 
fine land as can be found in the county, well 
stocked with cattle, horses, bogs and sheep;and all 
this is over and above losses he has sustained from 
time to time in speculation, forfeiture of bonds, 
etc., aggregating some $1 (),()()(). Mr. Blayney has 
always been a Democrat, and served in various 
township offices. The family are members of the 
Presbyterian Church at West Alexander. 



ISRAEL BREESE. Prominent among the re- 
tired men of Morris township, who have made 
life a success, is the subject of this memoir, so 
well and favorably known in the community. 
Israel Breese was born near Sparta, in Morris 
township, Washington Co., Penn., January 20, 
1817. His father, Henry Breese, was born near 
Mendham, Morris Co., N. J., December 2, 1783, 
and emigrated to Washington county, Penn., about 
the beginning of the present century. Phoebe 
Breese, mother of our subject, who was a daughter 
of Jonathan Hayden, was born near the place of her 
husband's nativity, November 15, 1785, and mar- 
ried in 1804. Henry Breese removed to Washing- 
ton county to look after the large estate of his 
father-in-law, near Sparta; but after a time re- 
sumed work at his trade, blacksmithing, which he 
followed the greater part of his lib-. He died in 
L870; his wife surviving him si\ years. To them 
were born twelve children, five of whom are now 
living: Mary Ann (wife of Henry Brown), now re- 
siding in Athens county, Ohio; Phcebe Jane (wife 
of Joseph Vauscyoe, of East Finley township, 
Washington county); Silas F. (now a resilient of 
Greene county, aearBeulah); Henry (who has for 
thirty years resided in Iowa), and Israel, the sub- 
ject i if this sketch. 

After receiving but limited educational advan- 
tages, Israel, atthe ageof fourteen years, left home 
and started out to face the "stern realities of life" 
without a trade or other advantages, save his char- 
acter and energy, to commend him. He was not 
Long in gaining a foothold, and his prosperity has 
been marked. In addition to .i comfortable home 
in the town of Prosperity, where he resides, he 
owns a well-improved farm. He at one time con- 
ducted a successful mercantile business at Nineveh, 
Greene Co., Penn. His business capacity, integ- 
rity and genial disposition have commended him 
as a fitting subject for trusted public positions, 
which he has often been solicited to accept; but 
Bave one term of service as auditor of Greene 



county, he has refused to be an office holder ex- 
cept in his own township. Through his business 
efforts, while serving as auditor, $16,000 of back 
taxes were collected, and methods were instituted 
which resulted in a reduction in the rate of taxa- 
tion. Many attempts were made to persuade him 
to accept other trusts, but he steadfastly refused. 
His political views accord with those of the Dem- 
ocratic party. Mr. Breese was married in 1842 to 
Miss Charlotte, daughter of Stephen Cooper", of 
Franklin township, and to this union ten children 
were born, viz.: Leroy Woods, William Cooper, 
Laviua, Mary Louisa, Silas Finley, Clara, James 
Henry, Lewis Campbell, Forest Adams and Charles 
Weaver, of whom the first rive are deceased; Clara 
married, G. M. Wilson, of Morris township; James 
Henry married Bell Conger; Lewis Campbell mar- 
ried Florence Andrew; Forest Adams married 
Bertha Hayden, of Prosperity; Charles Weaver is 
unmarried and resides with his father. The moth- 
er of this family died in 1884, and October 14, 
1NN6, Mr. Breese married Amanda J., daughter of 
George F. Wolfe, of Greene county, Penn., whose 
father. Christopher Wolfe, emigrated from near 
Morrietown, N. J., about the beginuiug of the 
present century. 

THOMAS M. PATTERSON, one of the oldest 
and most influential farmers of Cross Creek 
township, is a native of the same, having 
been born March 2, 1827, on the J. N. Wal- 
ker farm. He is a son of James Patterson, 
and grandson of Gen. Thomas Patterson, whose 
grandfather (James) was a native of Ireland. James 
Patterson (1) was born in Ireland in 1708, and 
coming to America in 172S, settled in Little Britain 
township, Lancaster Co., Penn. He married in 
Pennsylvania, and reared a family of ten childreu, 
the sons being named as follows: William, John. 
Samuel, James and Thomas. 

William Patterson was born in 1733, and was 
first married to Rosanna Scott, who bore him chil- 
dren as follows; Mary. Moses, Samuel, Thomas 
and James. The mother of these died April 5, 
L769, and on April 10, 1770, William Patterson 
married Elizabeth Brown, and ten children were 
born to this second union: John, Rosanna, Will 
iani, Nathaniel, Rachel, Elizabeth, Josiah, Han- 
nah. Nathan and Eleanor. In 1779 the family re 
moved to Cross Creek township, this county, set- 
tling on a farm now owned by R. M. Patterson. 
The father was a soldier in the Revolutionary war. 
He died June 29, 1818, and his wife passed from 

earth about the year 1 828. 

Gen. Thomas Patterson (grandfather of Bubjeot) 
was born October 1. 1764, in Lancaster county. 
Penn., and was about fifteen years of age when his 
parents removed to Washington county. In 1795 




£/* S&.^s&rf£&tjL<r^ 





WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



497 



he was married to Elizabeth Finley, of Westmore- 
land county, Penn. ; and twelve children were born 
to them, those who lived to an adult age being 
William, James, Samuel, Mary, John, Thomas, 
Finley, Elizabeth, Moses and Kosanna. Mr. Pat- 
terson was a prosperous farmer and very influen 
tial citizen, having represented Washington county 
in the United States Congress for several years. 
He died November 17, 1841. 

James Patterson was born April 24, 1798, in 
Cross Creek township, and passed his life in the 
vicinity of his birthplace. On June 29, 1820, he 
was married to Eliza Walker, daughter of Alexan- 
der and Elizabeth (Norris) Walker, of Cross Creek 
township, and they had eleven children, two of 
whom are deceased. Those now living are Eliza 
beth (Mrs. Russell T. Johnson), Mary (Mrs. Richard 
Wells), Thomas M. (subject), Alexander (who was a 
wool dealer of New York City, married Jane Hodg- 
ens, and died January 7, 1888), Jane (deceased wife 
of Robert Marquis), Ambrose (who lived in Nebras- 
ka, married Margaret A. Richey, and died October 
15, 1886), James M. (living in Plattsmouth, Neb., 
and married to Eleanor Campbell), David F. (a 
lawyer of Allegheny, Perm., married to Mary 
Gardener) and Emily A. (Mrs. Samuel Latta, liv- 
ing in Cass county, Neb.). The father of this 
family died August 17, 1861, at the home of his 
son, Thomas M. In politics he was a Democrat, 
active to the interests of his party, and he was a 
wide-awake and prosperous business man, winning 
friends and success by his integrity. He was a de- 
voted member of the Presbyterian Church of Cross 
Creek township for nearly thirty-four years, and 
after a painful illness of several months he was 
laid "where the weary are at rest;" his widow died 
December 9. 1886. 

Thomas M. Patterson (the subject proper of this 
sketch) was reared to manhood on the home farm 
in Cross Creek township, and in early boyhood 
evinced a passionate fondness for the equine race. 
At the age of fourteen he was given a six-horse 
team, which he cared for and drove man} 7 years. 
At that time it was necessary for him to make a 
trip to Pittsburgh nearly every week in order to 
exchange the farm produce for other necessary ar- 
ticles. On January 14, 1847, he was wedded to 
Miss Sarah J. Barber, of Jefferson township, this 
county, born November 18, 1827, on the old home- 
stead, a daughter of John Barber (deceased), a 
prominent farmer of that vicinity. In 1 857, Thomas 
M. Patterson bought a half interest in the store at 
Patterson's Mills, which he conducted, also rnanag- 
ing his farm until 1861. He then sold his interest 
in the store, and bought the two-hundred acre farm 
upon which he has since worked. He keeps the 
land in a high state of cultivation, and gives much 
attention to sheep raising, doing an extensive busi- 
ness in that branch. Politically he has ever been 



an active Democrat, and has served as justice of 
the peace, assistant assessor and in various other 
township offices. He is a liberal supporter of the 
Presbyterian Church of Cross Creek village, Mrs. 
Patterson being a member of that denomination. 



dfOSEPH N. HENRY, a well-known resident 
of South Strabane township, is a son of John 
I Henry, who was born October 14, 1825, in 
South Strabane township, on the farm now 
ocoupied by his brother, Robert D. John Henry 
passed his earlier years in attending to the duties 
of the home farm, but his inclinations led him to 
follow mechanical work, and he commenced to 
learn the carpenter's trade. After becoming familiar 
with each detail of the work, he made a business 
of general contracting and building, meanwhile 
managing a farm. He finally devoted his entire 
attention to the improvement and cultivation of 
the home place. On May 8, 1851, he was married 
to Jane N. White, a daughter of one of the pioneers 
of Chartiers township, and they had the following 
family of children: Ebenezer W. (residing in 
Iowa), Nicholas, Robert, Joseph N. ami Lewis A., all 
living but Nicholas, who died when eighteen months 
old. John Henry was the architect of his own 
fortune, and owned over 400 acres of land in 
Washington county, Penn., also a farm in Iowa. 
Politically he was formerly a Whig, and afterward 
became a Republican, ever taking an active 
interest in the affairs of his party, and serving 
acceptably many years as school director in the 
township. He was highly esteemed by all who 
knew him, and in religion was an active member of 
the United Presbyterian Church, which he served 
as a trustee. He died July 11, 1887, and was 
buried in the Washington cemetery. His widow, 
Jane N. Henry, died February 21, 1892, and was 
laid to rest by the side of her husband. 

Joseph N. Henry was born -May 21, 1859, on the 
home farm where his entire life has been passed, 
and received his early education in the common 
schools. On September 17, 1885, he was united 
in marriage with Emma, daughter of Charles S. 
Van Kirk, of Amwell township, Washington Co., 
Penn., and they have had three children: Mary, 
John and Katharine E. Mr. Henry is an active 
member of the Republican party. The family are 
members of the United Presbyterian Church at 
Pigeon Creek. 



d | AMES S. MOUNTS, a native of Franklin 
township, Washington Co., Penn., was born 
J May 6, 1835. He is a son of Joseph Mounts, 
who was also a native of Washington county, 
born Novembor 30, 1793, and passed his earlier 
years at home. On July 28, 1817, he was united 



498 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



in marriage with Elizabeth Montgomery, who bore 
Inn three children: K chard, Mar\ Jane and Eliza- 
beth. In April, 1824, the father was married to 
Nancy McLaughlin, who was born April 7. isox, 
a daughter of Jai bs McLaughlin. James Mc- 
Laughlin was born in Ireland, where he was mar 
ried to Sarah Hawthorne, and soon afterward left 
his home in the. .Id country to seek one in the New 
World. He finally settled in Washington county, 
I'enn., where the remainder of hiH life was passed, 
and the following children were horn and reared: 
Nancy, .lames, Sarah, Martha and Andrew. 

After his marriage Joseph Mounts settled on a 
small farm in Buffalo township, Washington county, 
and remained there twenty eight years, when he 
purchased the farm on which the remainder of his 
life was passed. Mis children were: Sarah (Mrs. 
James Coulson), Margaret (Mrs. Samuel Carson), 
Eleanor (Mrs. David Clark), Martha, Nancj C. 
(Mrs. .Tame-, Prigg), .lames S. (subject of this 
sketch). Rebecca (Mrs. William Prigg), Martha .1. 
(Mrs. John Logan), Maria A., Rachel and Joseph. 
Mr. Mounts was a Democrat, and took an active 
interest in public affairs. He died August 5, 1 ST7, 
and was buried in Washington cemetery. 

James S. Mounts spent his early life on the home 
farm, and received his education in the common 
schools of the neighborhood. < )n October 20, L86 1 . 
he was married toSusan, daughter of Jacob Werioh, 
and the following children were born to them: 
Melvin, Warren M., Fannie (Mrs. Ed. Elwood), 

Nancy and Ja s. The mot her of these children 

dying. Mr. Mounts was married February I. 1892, 
to Lizzie, daughter of Marquette Wright, of Wash- 
ington. Mr. -Mounts has always been a successful 

farmer, and is an enterprising citizen. In political 
opinion he is a prominent and earnest worker in 
his party, lie was a member of the U. P. Church 

until the Civil war opened, when the Democrats 

were prohibited from fellowship, since which time 
he has been connected with no church. 



diONAS COOPER. Prominent among the old- 
est, best known and must highly esteemed 
J citizens of Washington county stands Jonas 
Cooper, who in his social and political life 

has proven himself in all respects worthy of the 
good name he bears. He isa native of the county. 
having been born Maj 30, [814, on the farm where 
he now lives in Franklin township. His grand 
lather. Moses Cooper, was born August iS, 1 7127, 
in New Jersey, and there married Mary Doty, who 
was born April 30, 1733, and died November 14, 
1823. The names and dates of birth of the ehil 
dren born to this union are as follows: Zebulon, 
January 13, 1752 (died December 22, 1835); Mo 
ses, April I, 1754 (died April 16, L831); Mary, 
June 6, 1 75(1 plied October 21, 1832); Elizabeth, 



Max 26, L759 (died in 1844); Nathaniel, Septem- 
ber 21, L761 (died April 16, IMS|: Kunice, March 

26, 1764 (died July 11, 1850); Lemuel, March I. 
1767 (died January 19, 17'.»7i; Penelope, Novem- 
ber 28, 1769 (died July 28, 1833); Ephraim, July 
9, 1772 (died February IS, I860); and Stephen, 
February 14, 1775 (died May 29, L853). In 1778 
the father, Moses Cooper, stalled with his large 
family from New Jersey for Washington county, 
I'enn., but while on the way he died in Fayette coun- 
ty. I'enn. , where he is buried. He had sold his prop 
erty in New Jersey, receiving in payment thereof 
"Continental money," which had so depreciated 
at the time of his death as to be comparatively 
worthless. The family, now almost penniless. 
continued their journey westward, arriving in 
course of time at their destination. Zebulon. one 
of the sons, had learned the trade of a tanner in 
New Jersey, and upon his arrival in Washington 
county commenced business in a very modest way 
in that line. He took his brother Ephraim as an 
apprentice, teaching him both the tanning and 
shoemaking trades, the first, of which he (Ephraim i 
subsequently followed nearly his entire life. He 
commenced by tanning his own Leather, and going 
from house to house, making shoes at 30 cents a 
pair. He soon, however, purchased the farm now 
occupied by our subject, and on it built one of the 
first tanneries in this section, which stood until 
L890. On February 27, 1794, he married Marga- 
ret, daughter of Abram Van Voorhees, who bore 
him the following children: Daniel, born Februarj 
17, 1795. died June 26, 1*77; Catherine, born 
June 17, L798, died February 12, 1876; Nellie, 
born January <>. IN04. died December Hi, 1S7S; 
Lany, born December 1. (806; Pamelia, born Feb- 
ruary 28, 1811; and Jonas, born May 30, 1Mb 
The father died February IS, I860, the mother on 
March 6, 1859. Ephraim Cooper was an energet 
ic man, and one who took a lively interest m the 
prosperity and growth of his county. He taught 
liis trade to at least fourteen men and boys. In 
politics he was an active Whig, and in religion 
was first a leading supporter of the Upper Ten- 
Mile Presbyterian Church, of which he was one ot 
the organizers, and in 1 S3 1 united with the Cum- 
berland Presbyterian Church. 

Jonas Cooper passed his boyhood and youth 
with his parents, attending school occasionally. 
When old enough he learned t lie t rade of a tan ner. 
and after the retirement of his fattier from active 
life conducted the tannery which the latter had 
established. On November 3, \^'M'>. Mr. Cooper 
married Sarah, daughter of Luther Axtell. of New 
Jersey, who came at an early date to Washington 
county. The children born of this union were: 
Daniel, born September 11. ls::7, died January 

27, 1S7T>, in Jefferson county (he was educated at 
Waynesburgh College, and for many years was a 



\\ AS//I.\i,T()\ COIXTY. 



499 



minister of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church); 
1'hilip A., born February 12, L839; Emeline (Mrs. 
Joseph Riggs, of Morris township), born July 8, 
1 1842; Aha, bom May 20, IMI (he was educated 
at Way lies burgh College, and was a minister of 
the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Bentley 
ville, Washington county); Sarah J. (Mrs. Ira B. 
Baldwin), born April 13, 1848 (in Decatur county. 
Kans.); and Jonas J., born July 13, L853, died at 
the age of ten years. Our subject has been from 
his youth a member of the Cumberland Presby- 
terian Church. In politics he was first an Old-line 
Whig, then a Republican, but is now a pronounced 
supporter of the Prohibition party. His wife died 
August 23, 1885. 

Philip A. Cooper enlisted in August, 1802, in 
Company C, One Hundred and Fortieth Pennsy] 
vania Volunteer Infantry, which was firs! sent to 
Maryland to guard the railroads, and then joined 
Hancock's division. He participated in many of 
the hardest fought battles of the army of the Po 
tomac, including Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Mine 
Run, Wilderness, Ford's Tavern, Deep Bottom, 
Charles City Cross Roads, Reams Station, Peters- 
burg, and many others, and was present at Lee's 
surrender. On his return home he commenced 
farming, an occupation he has since continued. 
On January 4, 1870, Mr. Cooper married Ellen, 
daughter of Michael Slusher, of Ainwell township, 
and of this union have been born the following 
children: Addie M. , Ashtou Carey, Nora B. , 
Howard D. and Lewis C. Mr. Cooper is a mem 
ber of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. In 
politics he was formerly a Republican, but is now 
a Prohibitionist. 



di'AMES S. ARTHUR, a prominent citizen of 
Chartiers township, is one of the three chil- 
J dren born to William Arthur, whose father 
was also named William. William Arthur, 
the grandfather of James S. was born in Ire- 
land, and some time after his marriage came to 
Washington county, Penn. , with bis family. He 
settled on a farpi in Chartiers township, where his 
two sons, William and James, were reared. The 
father died in 1840, having been preceded by his 
wife in 1838. 

William Arthur was born in Ireland, and came 
with his parents to Pennsylvania when only four 
years of age, there growing to manhood. He then 
selected as a life companion Rebecca Poster, and 
after marriage the young people settled on the farm 
in Chartiers township, which is now occupied by 
the son James. Three children were born to their 
union: Elizabeth (wife of John McCarty, of Char- 
tiers township), James S., and Mary Anne, who died 
in her eighteenth year. William Arthur passed 
his whole life in this county. He was an active 



worker in the Democratic party, and in religion a 
member of the United Presbyterian Church. He 
died about the year 1847, being followed by his 
w ife in 1868. 

James S. Arthur was born January 27, 1833, in 
Chartiers township, this county, and passed his 
early life on the home farm, being educated in<the 
subscription and district schools of the period. 
On January 28, 1804, he was married to Sarah 
Jane Palmer, who was born in Washington county, 
September 24, 18 13, a daughter of David and 
Hannah (Crawford) Palmer. David Palmer was 
born in July, 1810, in County Armagh, Ireland, 
and in IS33 came with his parents to Washington 
county, Perm., wherein 184'-! he was married to 
Hannah Crawford. After his marriage Mr. Palmer 
settled on a farm in this county, where the 
following children were born: Thompson (living 
in North Strabaue township), Sarah Jane (wife ol 
• I, ones S. Arthur), Margery (married to Newton G. 
Watson, and died in Iowa May 27, 1891), Mor- 
rison (deceased in May, l s ''>"\> and Elizabeth (wife 
of Prof. S. W. Reed, living in Washington. Iowa). 
The father of this family died in July, 1800, having 
been preceded by his wife in May, 1872. 

After his marriage to Sarah Jane Palmer, James 
Arthur settled on the homestead farm, consisting 
of 1 10 acres. This farm is underlaid with a valu- 
able six-foot vein of coal, and the mines have been 
opened on the farm for a number of years, Mr. 
Arthur's ancestors having been active coal mer 
chants. The mines are still under operation by 
J. S. Arthur & Sons. Mr. Arthur takes an active 
pari in politics, voting with the Democratic party, 
and is a well known and enterprising citizen. 
James S. and Sarah Arthur have been blessed with 
a family of eight- children, as follows: Ida May, 
William, Elizabeth Jeannette, Margarete, James S., 
David Clarence, John (deceased in infancy) and 
George Lawrence. 




RS. MARTHA G. BELL. Among the 
well known and highly respected families 
of East Finley township none hold higher 
social position than that of the late Zadoc 
L. Bell. He was a son of Samuel Bell, a 
native of Fayette county, Penn., born in 1806, of 
Scotch-Irish parents. 

When Samuel was yet a boy his father died, and 
his home was made with Iuh widowed mother 
until he was fourteen years of age, when he was 
apprenticed to a blacksmith to learn the trade. 
With him he remained until he was twenty one 
years old, when to his sorrow he learned that his 
employer was bankrupt, and he had to take an 
old, broken down horse in payment of wages due 
him. Not discouraged, however, at this unexpected 
interruption to his prospects, Mr. Bell mounted 



500 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



his horse, then his only possession, and set out for 
the West. Horse and rider swam the Mononga- 
hela river, and then proceeded on to Van Buren, 
Franklin (then Morris) township, Washington 
county, where he rented a kit of blacksmith's 
tools, and purchased a leather apron on time, 
toward the payment of which the first 50 cents he 
earned in his new venture went. He worked hard, 
and was soon able to pay the balance and purchase 
the tools. He was married to Matilda Luellen, 
who was born January 14, 1810, and who became 
the mother of the following named children: Sarah, 
wife of A. C. Cracroft, of Franklin township; 
Thomas J., a farmer of East Finley township; 
Zadoc L.; Elizabeth, wife of M. A. McKeen, of 
East Finley township; Nancy, wife of David Gantz; 
Martha, who was married to Dr. T. P. Simpson, 
but is now deceased; and Robert, a farmer of 
Franklin township. The untiring energy, industry 
and perseverance of Samuel Bell soon enabled him 
to purchase a small tract of land, and afterward 
another, still larger. In 1840 he abandoned his 
trade and commenced farming, which he followed 
the rest of his life, doing, in connection therewith 
a large business in live stock, buying and selling, 
in all of which interests he deservedly prospered, 
and at the time of his death, in 1880, he was the 
owner of several hundred acres of the very best 
farm land in the county. He was a thoroughly 
representative self-made man in every essential. 
His widow died in 1890. 

Zadoc L. Bell, second son of the above, was 
born February 12, 1832, at Van Buren, Franklin 
(then Morris) township, Washington Co., Penn. 
There he received a liberal education at the country 
schools, and followed agricultural pursuits on his 
father's farm. On April 9, 1855, he was united 
in marriage with Martha G. McKeen, daughter of 
John and Margaret McKeen, of East Finley town- 
ship, and she bore him seven children, of whom 
the following is a brief record: Theodore D. , 
born July 22, 1850, is now a farmer in Morris 
township, this county; Matilda, born March 13, 
1858, married C. H. Andrews, and died May 22, 
1888; Samuel, born January 20, 1801, is a jeweler 
in Glaysville, Penn. ; Sarah Ellen, born August 13, 
1863, is married to E. C. Booth, of Washington, 
Penn.; Erminie Blanche, born July 12, 1800, is 
married to J. E. Andrews, of Lindley's Mills, this 
county; Thomas Remley, born April 5, 1870, is a 
school teacher and lives at home; Birdie Caroline, 
born August 29, 1872, is married to L. H. Ramsey, 
of Lagonda, Penn. Soon after his marriage Zadoc 
L. Bell purchased of his father the old Van Scyoc 
farm, on which his widow yet resides and manages. 
This property is one of the best in East Finley 
township. Mr. Bell died suddenly July 9, 1891, 
after a busy and successful life. In addition to 
his general farming interests he dealt extensively 



in live stock, and in all his business transactions 
he was recognized as an honorable, straightfor- 
ward man, one who made and kept hosts of f riends ; 
and wielded an influence for good in the commu- 
nity. In politics he was a life-long Democrat, and 
one of the advisers in his party; in religion he was 
a most liberal contributor, not only to his own 
church, the Cumberland Presbyterian at Fair- 
view, but to all denominations in need of pecuniary 
assistance. His widow is a member of the Fair 
view Cumberland Presbyterian Church. 



TjpY OBERT LITLE. Among the older and 

ILr/ most successful agriculturists of East Fin- 

r\\ ley township, none stand higher or are more 

J — * respected than the gentleman whose name 

v opens this sketch. 

William Litle, father of our subject, was born 
in Bedford county, Penn., in 1798, of Scotch-Irish 
parents. His educational opportunities were very 
meager, but his practical experiences were almost 
unlimited. At about the age of eighteen he set 
out for the then "great West," at that time offer- 
ing magniticeut opportunities for ambitious young 
men who were willing to work and encounter hard- 
ships. About the year 1817 he arrived in Wash- 
ington county, Penn., and soon found employment 
in the carding-mills there, in which he worked 
about seven years, or until after his marriage in 
1823. He then purchased with his hard-earned 
savings a tract of land in East Finley township, 
near the Buffalo township line, on which he erected 
a log cabin, moving thereon with his young wife, 
and here they passed the remainder of their days, 
working industriously and adding to their posses- 
sions. Mrs. Litle was a Miss Mary Ann Patter- 
son, a native of Washington, Penn., whose father. 
James Patterson, had emigrated from Ireland. 
Ten children were born to this union, as follows: 
James, who died at the age of fifteen years; Henry, 
now a retired farmer, residing in Hiawatha, Kans. ; 
Alexander H, living retired in Washington, Penn.; 
William, who died at the age of thirty five years; 
Robert, our subject ; Martha, deceased at the age of 
twenty-one; Isabel, deceased at the age of thirty- 
nine; Jane, now a resident of Hiawatha, Kans. , 
married to Stewart Litle; Carpenter, deceased 
in infancy, and Kate, wife of William McCreery, 
of Buffalo township. The father died in 1887, 
the mother in 188(1. They were members of the 
M. E. Church, and in polities Mr. Litle was a life- 
long Democrat. 

Robert Litlr, the subject of this memoir, was 
born February 26, 1831, in Buffalo township, 
Washington Co., Penn. His education was some- 
what limited, as regards book learning, but his 
knowledge of agriculture, which he obtained under 
the preceptorship of his father, was invaluable. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



501 



On April 1, 1856, he was married to Mary Asb- 
brook, who was bora February 17, 1835, a daugh- 
ter of Absalom and Elizabeth (BraddockJ Ashbrook, 
and to this union the following children were born: 
A daughter that died in infancy; James, born De- 
cember 10, 1857, died September 1, 1862; Ida 
Bell, born April 19, 1860, married to William For- 
gie, of Washington, Peun. ; Lizzie Ann, born June 
4, 1862, wife of William Donaldson, of East Fin- 
ley township; Amelia J., born June 9, 1865, and 
William A., born September 7, 1869, both living at 
home. After his marriage Mr. Litle purchased 
some land adjoining his father's property, situated 
about three miles southeast of Claysville, on Buf- 
falo creek, in East Finley township. Here he has 
since resided, engaged in general farming, in which 
he has been eminently successful, and he and his 
worthy life partner enjoy the esteem and respect 
of all their neighbors. They are members of the 
M. E. Church at Claysville, and in politics Mr. 
Litle is a solid Democrat. 



^=5J DWARD GRAHAM ALEXANDER, a pros- 
perous farmer of East Finley township, is 
a grandson of John Alexander, a native of 
Ireland, who immigrated to Fayette county. 
Penu., in an early day, where his children were 
In nil and reared. 

Edward Alexander, son of the pioneer John, was 
born in Fayette county, Penn., November 14, 
1792. and when yet a boy came in company with 
two brothers to Ohio, which was then considered 
"out West." They located in the northern part 
of the State, and remained there some time, but 
Edward, becoming discontented, returned to Wash- 
ington county, Peun., and took a contract for the 
construction of one mile of the "National pike," 
west of Washington borough. On April 4, 1816, 
Mr. Alexander was married to Sarah Shoaff, a na- 
tive of Virginia (born near Rnmley), of German 
ancestry, and the following children were born to 
them: James, Jacob, Edward Graham (subject), 
David (deceased in infancy), Hezekiah and Sarah 
Jane (wife of Jesse Plants), living in East Finley 
township. Our subject and the daughter just 
named are the only living members of the above 
family. After his marriage Mr. Alexander lived 
some time on Buffalo creek, and in 1825 came to 
East. Finley township, locating on the farm now 
occupied by his son Edward, which is situated on 
Templeton fork of Wheeling creek, about half a 
mile from its mouth. Mr. Alexander continued to 
reside on this farm until his death, which occurred 
in the year 1874. His wife died in 1880. 

Edward Graham Alexander was born in East 
Finley township, Washington county, June 8, 
1820, and passed his boyhood on the farm. In 
1848 he was united in marriage with Hannah Van- 



derhoof, who was born June 24, 1829, a daughter 
of Peter Vanderhoof, a native of New Jersey. She 
bore him children as follows: Margaret J., Heze- 
kiah, William, Isabel (who died February 15, 
1890), Mary, Sarah, Amanda, James, Rosanna, 
Catherine and Jacob. After his marriage Mr. 
Alexander moved into a log cabin near his present 
home, and began the struggle of life. By dint of 
incessant toil and tireless energy he has succeeded 
in accumulating a comfortable property, and also 
in winning and retaining the highest regard of all 
who know him. In politics he has always been a 
Democrat. He attends the Windy Gap C. P.' 
Church, of which his wife is a member. 



LEWIS A. HENRY, a young and enterpris- 
ing citizen of South Strabane township, is a 
I son of John Henry, who was born October 
14, 1825, on the farm in South Strabane 
township, Washington county, which is now occu- 
pied by Robert D. Henry. John Henry passed 
his earlier years in agricultural duties, and being 
of a mechanical turn of mind, afterward learned 
the carpenter's trade, beginning business as a 
general contractor and builder, and managing a 
farm at the same time. He ultimately gave his 
whole time to the latter occupation, making nu- 
merous improvements on the home place. He was 
united in marriage May 8, 1851, with Jane N. 
White, whose parents were among the pioneers of 
Chartiers township, and to their union were born 
children as follows: Ebenezer W. (living in Iowa), 
Nicholas, Robert, Joseph N. and Lewis A., all living 
but Nicholas, who died when eighteen months old. 
Mr. Henry owed his financial success to his own 
exertions, and accumulated a comfortable property, 
being the owner of over 400 acres of land in 
Washington county, Penn., also of a farm in Iowa. 
In political preferences John Henry was formerly 
a Whig, and upon the organization of the party 
became identified with the principles of the Repub- 
lican platform, and filled the office of a school 
director in the township for many years. He was 
a highly respected citizen, and in religion an active 
member of the United Presbyterian Church, in 
which he filled the office of trustee. On July 1 1 , 
1887, he passed away, and was laid to rest in 
Washington cemetery; his wife, Mrs. Jane N. 
Henry, died February 21, 1892, and was laid to 
rest beside him. 

Lewis A. Henry was reared in South Strabane 
township, this county, and acquired his early edu- 
cation in the common schools. In the year 1880, 
he entered Duff's Business College, Pittsburgh, 
Penn., from which he graduated the same year. 
He then began to manage the farm, and on Feb- 
ruary 14, 18S9, was married to Mary, daughter of 
James McClure, a resident of Chartiers township, 



502 



WASHING TON CO UNTY, 



Washington county. They came immediately to 
the home place where they have since resided. Mr. 
Henry and his wife are members of the United 
Presbyterian Church at Pigeon Creek, and in polit- 
ical life he is an enthusiastic Republican. 



LOUIS DUVALL, one of the most substantial 
farmers of Hopewell township, was the 
I youngest son of Louis, who was a son of 

— ' Alexander and Abigail Duvall. Alexander 
Dnvall came from France to America at an early 
day, and first located east of the mountains, after- 
ward removing to Fayette county, Penn. , near 
the Monongahela river, where the remainder of his 
days were passed. 

Louis Duvall received a common-school educa- 
tion, and after his marriage, to Hannah Mc Adams, 
removed to Still Water, Ohio, then almost an 
unbroken wilderness. They were in constant 
dread of the Indians, and when her husband was 
obliged to leave home to go to mill the wife would 
hide herself and children until his return. Mr. 
Duvall contracted malaria while in Ohio, and 
returned to Washington county to regain his 
health. No house being ready for them on their 
return, they lived for a time in a barn, which was 
remodeled and fitted up for the purpose. But 
though living to a goodly age, Mr. Duvall never 
regained his health, and upon the devoted wife 
and mother fell the heavy wefght of providing and 
caring for the needs of the family. She often 
found it necessary to take her infant to the field, 
leaving it in a corner of the fence while she he >ed 
corn. By their united efforts, in spite of the 
husband's poor health, they were successful and 
accumulated considerable property. Of the nine 
children born to them, only three are now living, 
viz : Hannah (widow of Elias Garrett, of West 
Bethlehem township), Abigail (wife of Jacob 
Deems, now residing in West Pike Run township, 
this county) and Louis. Mary, Eliza, Jane, Maria, 
Isabel and John are deceased. The father and 
iikiI her were members of the Society of Friends, 
being regular attendants at the services, though 
the meeting house was five miles distant. 

Louis Duvall was born in 1830, in East Pike 
Run township, this county, and was reared on the 
home farm. Owing to the feeble health of his 
father the bulk of the farm work fell upon the 
boys as soon as they were old enough to be of use. 
In the summer time he could not attend school, 
and through the winter, school lasted but three 
months. All farm work was done by hand in those 
days. Grain was cut with sickles or cradles, as 
there were no threshing machines; it was then 
beaten out with flails or trampled out with horses, 
lining afterward cleaned in a fanning-mill. The 
winter season was the time for doing such work, 



and as the process was long and tedious, the 
opportunities for getting an education were very 
limited. The schools of that time were very 
primitive affairs compared with those of to day, 
and speaking of them Mr. Duvall said: "I wonder 
that we got any education. If the children of to- 
day could see with what difficulties we had to con- 
tend, they would better appreciate the advantages 
of the present school system. The school-house I 
attended was as good as the times afforded. It was 
built of hewn logs, and had windows of four small 
panes each. The seats were slabs, into which 
wooden pegs were driven for legs. There were no 
backs or desks. Around the sides of the room holes 
were bored into which loug wooden pins were 
driven. On these pins boards were fastened, 
forming a writing-desk. The ceiling was low and 
liberally festooned with cobwebs. No maps or charts 
were used to help the youngsters with their lessons. 
Into a room of this kind fifty or sixty pupils were 
crowded. The teachers were men of muscle as well 
as brains, and believed in the efficacy of the rod." 
Mr. Duvall attended school whenever possible 
until he was sixteen or eighteen years of age, then 
turned his attention entirely to farming, working 
his father's place. 

In 1853 he was married to Mary Deems, a 
native of Clarksville, Greene Co., Penn., daughter 
of John and Mary (Reynolds) Deems, the former 
being a native of Washington county, and the 
latter borh in Fayette county, Penn. To Mr. and 
Mrs. Duvall have been born eleven children, as 
follows: John R., Hannah M., Annie M. , San 
Jacinto, William L., Mary Olive, Ulysses G. and 
Schuyler C. (twins), Lurilla (deceased), W. Claud 
and Dot Dell. They continued to reside in East 
Pike Run township until 1879, when Mr. Duvall 
purchased a farm of 163 acres in Hopewell town- 
ship, where he has been engaged in farming and 
wool growing, being ably assisted by his sons, none 
of whom are married. Two of the daughters are 
married: Hannah (to John Barnes, residing in 
Claysville, this county) and San Jacinto (married 
to Albert Rush, living in Hopewell township, this 
county). Mr. Duvall lias endeavored to give each 
of his children as good an education as possible, 
His twin sons are attending college at Ada, Ohio. 
In politics he is a Republican, and in religion he 
and his wife are members of Buffalo Presbyterian 
Church. 



^r\ ] OBERT B. FRYE, a prominent merchant 
L*^ of Finleyville, is a son of West Frye, whose 
[TV. father, Luke Frye, was of German descent, 
JJ -^ and a native of Washington county, living 
v near the Horseshoe church. Luke Frye 

was married to Miss West, a daughter of Samuel 
West, of Washington count}', and to this union 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



503 



were born three children, namely: West (whose 
sketch follows), Hester (wife of Elgy Van Voorbes), 
and Violet (Mrs. James Jennings). 

West Frye was born in 1818, near the Horseshoe 
church, Carroll township, Washington Co., Penn. 
He was reared to farm life, and in early days dis- 
tilled whisky in connection with his agricultural 
duties. In 1840 he was married to Miss Christina 
Van Voorbes, a daughter of Daniel Van Voorbes, 
of Fallowfield township, Washington county. She 
was born in 1821, and reared on the farm, receiv- 
ing her education at the high school and seminary 
of Allegheny, Penn. After they were married the 
young couple located on the old homestead uear 
Horseshoe church, where they remained several 
vears. They afterward moved to Monongahela, 
where he engaged in distilling, but in 1857 mo fed 
to Union township, this county, where he followed 
farming and hotel keeping. At that time the town 
of Finleyville was yet in its infancy, and has since 
been enlarged so much that it now covers a portion 
of the Frye farm. Mr. Frye was instrumental in 
building up the town, having erected several dwell- 
ings and business blocks. In politics he was a 
valued member of the Republican party. The fol- 
lowing children were born to this couple, viz. : 
Robert B. (whose name opens this sketch); Sarah 
A. (who was married to J. H. Gaston, and is 
engaged in the millinery and notion business) ; Mary 
H. (who was married to I. N. Morrison); Martha 
E. (Mrs. Boggs, of Des Moines, Iowa), and Ella C. 
(living at home). 

Robert B. Frye was born in 1841, on the old 
farm at Horseshoe church, this county, and assisted 
his father in the general agricultural duties. He 
graduated from the Iron City College, Pittsburgh, 
and in 1862 joined the Eighteenth Pennsylvania 
Cavalry. He served in the army of the Potomac 
until the siege of Petersburgh, when his regiment 
joined General Sheridan's forces, and entered the 
Shenandoah Valley. September 28, 1862, Robert 
Frye was left on the field for dead, at Rock Fish 
Gap, near Waynesborough. He was captured by 
the enemy, and (as soon as his wounds would per- 
mit) taken to Libby Prison November 10, 1864, 
where he remained until February 22, 1865. He 
was then paroled and first taken to Annapolis, 
thence to Philadelphia, and put in the Mower 
general hospital, from there receiving his discharge 
June 17, 1865. After the war he came home and 
weut West in 1866, but, returning to Washington 
county in 1870, was married to Catherine B., a 
daughter of Michael Teeple. The wedding cere- 
mony took place on the anniversary of the day that 
he was wounded on the battle field, September 28, 
1870. The young couple first located in Melrose, 
Iowa, and then lived in Kansas and Colorado, and 
different parts of the West. In 1891 they returned 
to Finleyville, Washiegton county, to help care for 



his aged mother. Mr. and Mrs. Frye are the 
parents of three children: Ella M., Jennie D. and 
Robert M. He was one of the first to support the 
Republican party, but has recently espoused the 
cause of the Peoples' party, and was the nominee 
of same, for representative from Washington 
county, in the campaign of 1892. 



IV\/f( BS " VI0LET G ' HA PPER. John A. 
I Xf/\ Happer (deceased) was a cultured citizen, 

I "(I and a representative of one of the oldest 

II -* families of Union township, his grand- 
v father, John Happer, having settled upon 
the Happer homestead in Union township in 1787. 
This ancestor was a native of Ireland, from which 
country he and his wife, Martha (Patton), emi- 
grated in 177s, and on May 19, 1787, received a 
patent for 300 acres in Union township. He was 
a weaver by trade, but after arriving in America 
devoted his life to agricultural pursuits. His chil- 
dren were Ann (Mrs. John Steele), Andrew, Bap- 
tist (who always resided on the old homestead), 
Andrew (who lived in Ohio), John, Samuel and 
Jane, none of whom are yet living. 

Baptist Happer, son of John and Martha, was 
born July 15, 1 7 S 7 , on the home farm in Union 
township, Washington county. On September 27, 
1808, he was united in marriage with Miss Ann 
Arrell, and remained on the homestead all his life. 
He was a prosperous agriculturist, and an exten- 
sive stock dealer. Politically he was a supporter 
of the principles embodied in the Whig party. The 
following children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Hap- 
per: Sarah (deceased wife of Rev. Thomas Gault), 
who resided in the Western States; John P. (de- 
ceased); Samuel (deceased), who went West; John 
A. (deceased); Andrew P. (still living), for forty 
years a missionary in China, whither he was sent 
by the Presbyterian Board of Missions; James B. , 
a resident of Illinois; and Margaret J., who resides 
in the West. 

John A. Happer was born October 1, 1816, on 
the ancestral acres in Union township, Washington 
county. He attended Jefferson College, and be- 
came a well-educated, intellectual and prominent 
citizen, serving in the State Legislature in 1862-63. 
In 1838 he was married to Violet Gardener, who 
was born in 1818, on a farm in Allegheny county, 
Penn., daughter of John Gardener, a native of 
Chester county, Penn. The young couple contin- 
ued to reside on the homestead, which contains 220 
acres of fine land, and in connection with general 
farming, Mr. Happer made a specialty of stock 
raising. He was the first to bring Berkshire hogs 
into the neighborhood, and among the first to intro- 
duce Durham cattle in Union township. In polit- 
ical opinion he was a Republican, and took a special 
interest in educational matters, having served for 



504 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



many years as a member of the school hoard. In 
religion he was a member and elder of the Mingo 
Presbyterian Church. He died November 11, 
L890, leaving a widow and the following children: 
Andrew G. (a resident of Washington, Penn.), 
Maggie A. (wife of J. J. Beacon, LL. D.), Isabella 
(married to Dr. Cheeseman), James B. (deceased), 
Frank A. (living in Washington, D. C, is married 
to Emma Foster), Oliver P. (deceased), Elizabeth, 
Wilmer, and Ella Blanche (deceased). 



It ¥/ ELON B. LEYDA was born July 27, 1834, 

!■— 4 in Somerset township, Washington Co., 
Penn. He is a son of George and Luz- 
JJ -* anna (New-Kirk) Lev'da, and grandson of 
"*' Benjamin and Catherine (Stoody) Leyda. 

The latter couple were natives of Pennsylvania, 
and settle! in Washington county, Penn., where 
they reared a family of eleven children. 

George Leyda was born in 1796, and reared on 
the farm, receiving a limited literary training in 
the subscription schools. In 1S23 he embarked 
on the matrimonial sea in company with Luzanna 
New Kirk, who was born in 1803. He then pur- 
chased a large tract of land, and followed farming 
and stock raising extensively in Washington county 
the remainder of his life. Politically he voted the 
Republican ticket, and in church connection he 
and his wife were members of the Pigeon Creek 
Presbyterian Church. He died in 1864, his wife 
in 186IS, leaving the following family of children: 
Catherine ' (wife of I. V. Kiddle, a farmer of 
Somerset township), Rhoda (married to Noah 
Myers, a resident of Toronto, Ohio), Julia (widow 
of David Clark, living in Nottingham township), 
Mary (widow of Daniel Teeters, of this county), 
Jane (wife of William Williams, a farmer of this 
county), James H (a practicing physician of Alle- 
gheny, Penn.), Isaac N. (practicing medicine with 
his brother James), Almoud R. (a real estate dealer 
of Beaver Falls. Beaver Co., Penn.) and Helon B. 

Hilon B. Leyda remained on the home farm 
during his boyhood, and attended school. On 
March 23, 18S2, he was married to Mary, daughter 
of John and Julia A. (Grable) McCormick. Mr. 
Leyda owns 108 acres of well-cultivated land. In 
politics he is a Republican, and he and his wife are 
members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 



JOHN L. PROUDFIT. He who begins at 
the lowest round of the ladder, and, with his 
eyes fixed on the goal, overcomes each 
obstacle, rising step by step until that goal 
is won, is the man to whom all honor is due. 
Of such a character is the gentleman of whom we 
write. He is a worthy representative of an old 
and well-known pioneer family. 



David Proudfit, grandfather of subject, was a 
native of Scotland, and coming to America, located 
in York county, Penn., where a son, John, was 
born to him, January 28, 1775. In 18l>2 this John 
Proudfit came to Washington county,' Penn., 
locating in Hanover township. On April 9, 1809, 
he was united in marriage with Elizabeth Lyle. a 
native of Cross Creek (then Hopewell) township, 
born March 24, 1 793. a daughter of John and 
Elizabeth (Hays) Lyle. Some time after their 
marriage John and Elizabeth (Lyle) Proudfit re- 
turned to York county, as the father of John was 
growing old and feeble, and needed the care of his 
children. The young people remained on the 
home farm until the death of the father, which 
event occurred in 1826. John and his family then 
again moved to Washington county, settling one 
mile west of Burgettstown, where he passed the 
remainder of his life. The trips across the mount- 
ains were fraught with much danger and incon- 
venience. On one occasion Mr. and Mrs. Proudfit 
rode 300 miles on horseback to make a visit to 
relatives in York county, the wife carrying an in- 
fant in her arms, and many hardships were en- 
dured on the journey. The following children 
were born to these pioneers: David, born August 
13, 1810, died September 19, 1813; John L. 
(deceased), born September 3, 1812; James K.. 
born April 21. 1815, died February 2.".. 1816; 
Eliza J. (Mrs. Arthur Campbell, of Smith town- 
ship), born January 2, 1817, died December 21, 
1892; Agues, born June 17, 1819, died August 1~>, 
1824; Robert F., born December 23, 1821, died in 
Smith township, in September, 1886: Cinderella 
(wife of Jacob Proudfit, a native of Ashland county. 
Ohio), born September 16, 1824; William, born 
May 10, 1828; Andrew J., born March 20, 1831: 
and Eleanor (Mrs. Thomas Shipley, of Hanover 
township, this county), born August 29, 1833, now 
in Hanover township. 

John L. Proudfit was born in Hanover township, 
Washington county, and when but eight months 
old was taken by his parents to York county, Penn., 
where he received his early education. When 
sixteen years of age he returned with his parents 
to Smith township, Washington county, and 
entered the arena of agricultural pursuits. When 
a young man he was married to Eleanor Campbell, 
who bore him four children, as follows: Elizabeth 
(Mrs. William A. P. Linn), Jennie (wife of Dr. 
W. P. Taylor), Martha E. (deceased wife of John 
M. Moore) and Amanda, deceased. On December 
24, 1867, Mr. Proudfit married, for his second wife, 
Mrs. Nancy Byers, widow of Alexander Byers. and 
daughter of Alexander Duncan, who was born 
November 14, 1792, in Smith township, where his 
whole life was passed. Mr. Duncan was first 
married to Matilda Crothers, a native of this 
county, who bore him two chiklren, James O. and 





aZ / l \^^^^jcC^^^ 



WASHINGTON COUNT)'. 



507 



Matilda E. (wife of Samuel MacFarland, but now 
deceased). The mother of these children dying, 
for his second wife Mr. Duncan married Jane 
Knox White, daughter of Thomas White. They 
settled near Florence, Penu., and three children 
were born to their union, of whom the following is 
a brief record: Nancy D. was married to J. L. 
Proudtit, as above stated; Jane was the wife of 
David Van Eman, and became the mother of three 
children: Alexander, William W. and Jennie 
White; John W. (deceased) was married to Harriet 
( 'alley, who bore him the following children: 
George A. (deceased I, livers D.. Addie J., Levi 
H., John C, James M , Hattie and Robert M. Mr. 
Duncan was tirst a Whig, afterward a Republican 
in politics, and in religion a member and trustee 
of the Presbyterian Church at Florence. 

John L. and Nancy Proudtit continued to reside 
at Burgettstown, where he dealt extensive^ in 
stock, giving special attention to sheep raising. 
\\ hen th«' Burgettstown National Bank was organ- 
ized, he was elected president of that corporation, 
at first of the Savings Bank connected with it. 
filling that office until his death, which occurred 
in L882, when he was seventy years of age. In 
politics he was a Democrat, and in religion a Pres- 
byterian, and an elder in that Church, at the time 
of his death a member of the U. P. Church in 
Burgettstown. Mrs. Proudtit is a member of the 
Presbyterian Church, Since the death of her hus- 
band she has continued to reside at the old home, 
having a niece living with her. 



,\ |\lljijlAM H1C. 1VIC<JUJ-i1jUULi 

t\JJ son °' William, and a graru 

V7 and Margaret McCullough, « 

uary 13, 1840, in Somerset t< 



\ ^ILLIAM Mc MeCULLOTJOH. the only 

ulson of [saac 

was born Jan 
township, this 
county. The grandparents emigrated from Ire- 
land in an early day, and made their permanent 
home in Washington county, Pennsylvania. 

William McCullough (son of Isaac) was born in 
1813 on the home place in Somerset township, this 
county, and after his schooldays were over became 
a merchant in Vanceville, same county. He was 
married January 10, 1839, to Miss Elizabeth Has- 
sock, also a native of the county. He died July 5, 
1840, leaving his infant son to the care of the 
widowed mother, who lived until 1884, when she 
too crossed "over the dark river." 

William Mc. McCullough was reared to agricult- 
ural pursuits, and received a district school edu- 
cation in the schools of Somerset township. He 
resides on the old homestead, which consists of 155 
acres of good land. The old place has flourished 
well under his care, for he has acquired an envia- 
ble reputation as a prosperous and practical farm- 
er, and makes a study yif his chosen calling; he is 
also actively identified with all worthy enterprises 



for the public good. He usually casts his ballot 
with the Republican party, but, being liberal in 
his views, votes for the men he considers most com- 
petent for township and county offices, regardless 
of their party preferences. Mr. McCullough has 
filled the position of county auditor for several 
terms of office, and has been school director for 
the last two years. He is a member of the Pigeon 
Creek Presbyterian Church. Mr. McCullough is 
unmarried. 




,ILLIAM B. McKENNAN, an influential 

citizen of Washington, was born in 
Brownsville, Fayette Co., Penn., March 
I, L829. Bis grandfather, ('apt. William 
McKennan (son of the Rev. William McKennan, a 
Presbyterian minister of New Castle. Deli, was 
born in 1758. He was married to Elizabeth, 
daughter of John Thompson, and a niece of Gov. 
Thomas McKean. Mr. McKennan entered the war 
of the Revolution, served as captain of a oompany, 
and was wounded in the engagement at Brandy- 
wine. In 17U8 he came to West Virginia, thence 
moving, in 1800, to Washington county, Penn., 
and, being appointed prothonotary, in 1801 located 
in Washington borough. He was a trustee of 
Washington Academy and of Washington College. 
He died in January. |s|0, leaving a widow arid 
the following named children: William, John T., 
Thomas M. T. , David, James W. and Ann E. 

John T. McKennan was born in Washington, 
this county, and there passed his early life. He 
received a good education, and graduated at Wash 
ington College, afterward engaging in the tanning 
business at Brownsville, Penn. He was married 
to Harriet Bowman, who was born June lb, 1795, 
at Brownsville, and she bore him children as fol- 
lows: Isabella L. , born July 27, 1818, died De- 
cember 18, 1841, at Brownsville: Elizabeth, vet liv- 
ing; Mary S., born August <!. 1823. died July 21), 
186(3, at Brownsville; Jacob, yet living; Annie B., 
born September 23, 1N-J7. died March 7, 1 Slit I. at 
Brownsville; and William B., subject of sketch. 
John T. McKennan acted as cashier of the Nation- 
al Bank at Brownsville for some time. He was 
a Whig, and a member of and elder in the Presby- 
terian Church formany years. There is a remarka 
blecoincidence in his and his brother's (Thomas M. 
T.) deaths, taking place in the same house, far re- 
moved from their homes. In September, 1830, 
while on business for the Bank of Brownsville, 
John T. McKennan was taken sick, and died on 
the 18th of that mouth at the house of his sister- 
in-law, Mrs. Bell, in Reading, Penn. In July, 
1852, his brother, Thomas M. T., while in the 
East on business connected with the Hempfield 
(now the Baltimore & Ohio) Railroad, was taken 
sick and died at the same house of the same sister- 



508 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



in-law. John T. was buried in the heart of the 
city of Reading, and an Episcopal church was 
1 »n i 1 1 over his grave. There the body remained un- 
til the Reading cemetery was established, when 
the remains were taken to the cemetery, only a few 
years since. Mrs. Harriet (Bowman) McKennan, 
his wife, was called from earth March 8, 1832, at 
Brownsville, Penn. 

William B. McKennan, son of John T. and Har- 
riet (Bowman) McKennan, passed his early youth 
at Brownsville, Fayette Co., Penn., and received 
his education at Kenyou, afterward attending 
Washington and Jefferson College. On Septem- 
ber 4, I860, he was united in marriage with Ade- 
line, daughter of Benjamin Ramsey. The young 
couple settled in Franklin township, Washington 
county, and the following children were born to 
their union: John T., Martha R. (wife of J. H. 
Moore), Benjamin R., Thomas R. and Mary S. 
Mr. McKennan has always resided on the same 
place, and is universally esteemed by his neigh- 
bors. In political opinion he is a Republican, and 
has served three terms as director of the county 
home. In religious faith, he is a member of the 
Episcopal Church of Washington borough. 



HARVEY LINDLEY. In recording the 
names of the prominent citizens of Wash- 
ington county, the list would be incomplete 
I were that of Harvey Lindley omitted. 

r He comes of an old New Jersey family, 

from which State his grandfather, Levi Lindley, 
came to this county (in the year 1788), making 
the journey on horseback, finally arriving in Mor- 
ris township, bringing his family later and settling 
where the village of Lindley *s Mills now is. Here, 
in the woods, he erected his log cabin, and under- 
went many hardships and vicissitudes of which the 
present generation know but little. About the 
same time his two brothers, Demaa and Caleb, 
came to this country, each of whom sent a son 
buck to Princeton College, where thej graduated 
and both became Presbyterian ministers. 

The three brothers were truly the pioneer set- 
tlers, and gave character as energetic, Christian 
men to the community in which they lived. They 
wnr tin- first to build a fort for protection against 
Indian invasions. Lindley's Fort, as it was known, 
was built on the farm of Demas Lindley, now 
owned by Isaac Coimett, and was located just west 
of the present brick dwelling. They were, also, 
the prime movers in organizing and establishing 
Upper and Lower Ten Mile Presbyterian Churches. 
Demas erected and ran the first gristmill in Morris 
township. He kept the firsl postoffice in the town- 
ship, and it was tiie only otlic<> at that early date 
between Washington and Waynesburg. The mail 
was carried ami delivered mice a week on horse- 



back. One by one the giant trees yielded to the 
pioneer's axe, and ere long the wild animals were 
driven back by the march of civilization. In most 
respects the country was comparatively safe, save 
when marauding bands of Indians made depreda- 
tory raids on the humble homes of the white man. 
While a resident of New Jersey, Mr. Lindley was 
married to a lady of that State, who bore him the 
following named children: Zabby, William, Benja- 
min and Timothy. 

Benjamin Lindley, son of Levi, and father of 
Harvey, was born in New Jersey, July 28, 1770. 
and was eight years old when he came with his par- 
ents to Washington county. On May 27, 1800, 
he married a Miss Logan, who bore him two chil- 
dren: Experience, born February S, 1802, and 
Margaret, born September 15, 1803. The mother 
of these children dying, Mr. Lindley married for 
his second wife, Jerusha Cooper, who was born Jan- 
uary 13, 17S2, a daughter of Zebulon Cooper, and 
by this union there were the following named chil- 
dren: Zebulon, born August 11, 1808; Mary, born 
May 9, 1810; Sarah, born July 5, 1812; Cephas, 
born March 28, 1816; Demas, born August9, 1818; 
Anna, born June 2S, 1823, and Harvey, born April 
15, 1826. After marriage Mr. Lindley remained a 
short time in Morris township, and then purchased 
the farm now occupied by Harvey Lindley, and 
which was materially improved by him and his de- 
scendants. After a long life of usefulness Benjamin 
Lindley passed from earth in September, 1869, in 
his ninety-first year, leaving a record that all may 
well emulate, his second wife having preceded him 
to the "other shore." He was one of the organizers 
of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church at Bethel, 
in which he was an elder for many years, and in 
politics he was an Old-time Whig. He was five feet 
eight inches high, and weighed 165 pounds. 

Harvey Lindley, whose name opens this memoir, 
is a native of Franklin towuship, born on the old 
home place where his entire life has been passed 
His boyhood and youth were occupied in assisting 
in the hard work of the farm, year in and year out. 
with the occasional relief of a few weeks attendance 
at the subscription schools in mid winter. On No 
vember 11, 1N47, he was united in marriage with 
Harriet N., daughter of Dr. Henry Blachly, of 
Morris township, and the children born to this 
union were: Henry B. , born February 2, 1849, 
married to Miss Sarah M. , daughter of Dryden 
Vankirk, of Franklin township, died in his thirty- 
second year. Anna E., born March 1'.', L853, mar 
ried to Samuel W., son of Oliver Cozad, of Frank 
] in township: they have one child, Orville O. Os- 
car F., born December 15, 1855, married to Miss 
Jennie, daughter of David Craft, of Morris town- 
ship, and living on a farm in Barber county, Kans. ; 
tlie\ have live children, Willis E., David H, Mary 
E., Harriet T. and Lutetla. Howard A., born 



WASHIXGTOX COUXTY. 



I 



June 20, 1863, married to Miss Adeline, daughter 
of David Clark, of Buffalo township: they have 
three children. Laura ML, Henry W. and Herbert 
S. Abraham Lincoln, born April 7. IS'Jo, married 
to Miss Mary I., daughter of Stephen Post, Frank- 
lin township. Howard A. and A. L. are living at 
the home place, and caring for the farm which con- 
tain- 31 in acres prime land. The mother of this 
family was called from earth July 22. 1891, in her 
sixty-fourth year, and was buried in Prosperity 
cemetery. She was a noble. Christian woman, and 
her influence for good will long be felt among the 
numerous friends she left to mourn her departure 
from their midst. Both she and Mr. Lindley were 
members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church 
at Bethel for many years, and he was an elder in 
the same for over thirty years. In politics he was 
originally an Old-time Whig, and since the organ- 
ization of the party, has been a stanch Republican: 
in school matters he has always taken a zealous in- 
terest, and was a director for many years. For 
several years Mr. Lindley has been in poor health. 



L 



A.WKENCE NOBLE is one of the young 
business men of Claysville, enjoying and 
deserving the esteem of the community. He 
" was born December 5, 1865, in Jackson- 
ville. Greene Co., Penn., a son of B. L. Noble, who 
was born in Claysville, Penn., in 1823, and resided 
till he was twenty-eight years of age. In 
1845 R. L. Noble was married to Harriet Hoskin- 
son, of Greene county, and in 1S52 they moved from 
Claysville to Jacksonville, Greene Co.. Penn. 

Our subject received his education in the Jack- 
sonville schools, and having acquired a good busi- 
ness training, he began life for himself at an early 
age, working at various occupations. In 1883 he 
acsepted a clerkship in Claysville. in the furniture 
and undertaking establishment of Isaac Teal. In 
1886 he bought out his employer, and in company 
with George M. Gray continued the business until 
February, 1891, when Mr. Gray was succeeded in 
the business by Y. ML Eulow. 'in 1889 Mr. Noble 
bought an interest in the hardware firm now known 
as James H. Noble A: Co., and is at the present time 
a member of the firms of Enlow & Noble and 
James H. Noble & Co. Although a young man, 
Mr. Noble has achieved an enviable success, and 
has a good reputation as a business man. Politic- 
ally he is a Republican. 



T 



:HOMAS J. McCLELLAND. This gentle- 
man was a worthy representative of the 
Scottish patriots whose blood flowed in his 
veins. Many years ago. during the rebellion 
in Scotland, one William McClelland left 
his native heath and came to Ireland. There his 



life was passed in agricultural pursuits, and three 
children were born to him, namely: Hans, James 
and William. 

Hans McClelland was born in 1756, in Ireland, 
and there passed his boyhood. When a young 
man he emigrated to America, locating on a farm 
two and one-half miles from Canonsburg, Wash- 
ington Co., Penn.. where he was engaged in 
distilling and general farming. He was married 
to Catherine Carson, a native of Ireland, who bore 
him the following children: William, James, Eben- 
ezer. John. Ann. Nancy and Sarah, all of whom 
lived to be over fifty years of age. The father 
died in 1818. 

Ebenezer McClelland was born in 17 r2, in Cecil 
township, Washington Co., Penn. He was reared 
to agricultural pursuits, and became one of the 
extensive wool buyers in Washington and 
neighboring counties, his annual purchase of wool 
sometimes amounting to 1,300,000 pounds; and he 
was also one of the most extensive breeders of fine- 
wooled sheep in Washington county. In 1823 he 
wa< married to Esther, daughter of John Camp- 
bell, of Cecil township, this county. Her father 
was born in Scotland, and coming to Washington 
county in pioneer times, was often obliged to flee 
from the Indians. Her grandfather Campbell was 
killed May 26, 1 7^2. at Crawford's defeat. To the 
union of Ebenezer and Esther (Campbell) McClel- 
land children were born as follows: J. C, Sarah 
J., Thomas J., William, Ebenezer. James and 
Catherine. The three yet living are James, Eben- 
ezer and J. C. 

Thomas J. McClelland was born May 21, 1828, 
on the old home farm in Cecil township. Washing- 
ton Co., Penn. He was four years of age when 
the family moved to North Strabane township, 
where his education was received. He also attended 
Jefferson College, and assisted his father in busi- 
ness. On December I s . 1851, he was married to 
Mary E.. daughter of Andrew Borland, who emi- 
grated from County Antrim, Ireland, and settled 
on Brush run. Peters township, this county. He 
was married to Elizabeth McCIure. of South Stra 
bane township, and resided on the old place until 
1856, when he moved to Clokey. same county, 
where he died, leaving the following children : 
Alexander. Mary E. I widow of Thomas J. McClel- 
land), Rebecca, Margaret A., Ann. Elizabeth. 
Sarah, Andrew, Catherine, Rachel. Martha and 
James, of whom Rebecca, Catherine, Rachel and 
Martha are deceased. Mary E. was boru July 2, 
1827, on Brush run. Peters township, this county, 
where her girlhood was passed. 

Tq the union of Thomas J. and Mary E. i Bor- 
land i McClelland, five children were born, viz.: 
Catherine M., Elizabeth iwife of Thomas Hill. 
Union township), Ebenezer E.. living on the home 
farm (married to Georgia M. , daughter of Hugh 



,1(1 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Flanuigan, of Union township, has two children: 
Ethel B. and Helen J.), Thomas J. and an infant 
daughter. The father died March 13, 1884, in 
his fifty-sixth year. He was a stanch member of 
the Democratic party, and served as school director 
for tifteeu years, as well as in various other capac- 
ities. The home place contains 188 acres of very 
fine land, and part of the rich coal vein underlying 
the farm has heen sold for $11,500. 



FREDERICK W. COOPER. Among the 
successful and popular citizens of Notting- 
ham township, none have been more promi- 
— " nently identified with the interests of the 
community than the Cooper family. Frederic 
Cooper, grandfather of the present generation, was 
an active business man, conducting a farm, 
distillery, carding-mill and gristmill, in which he 
was assisted by his sons Samuel F. and Frederick 
K. Cooper. 

Samuel F. Cooper was born May 2, 1807, in 
Nottingham township, and received a good educa- 
tion at the schools of Waynesburgh, and assisted 
with the farm work, and other interests with 
which his father was identified. In 1831 he was 
married to Sarah Van Voorhis, who was born in 
1814. Her father, Daniel Van Voorhis, was a 
prominent man, owning a large distillery and oil 
mill, and dealing extensively in stock. Five 
children were born to this marriage, namely: John 
P., Frederick \Y., Mary J., Clara E. and Van. 
Of this family, the latter three are deceased, and 
John P. moved to Tennessee in 1869, where he 
followed farming. The father was a Democrat, 
and tilled almost every office in Nottingham town- 
ship. He possessed a remarkable memory, and 
was a well-educated man, enjoying the respect and 
confidence of all who knew him. He was ex- 
tensively engaged in the fruit growing business. 
He died May 3, 1875, his widow May 19, 1892. 

Frederick W. Cooper was born March 31, 1837, 
in Nottingham township, this county, and passed 
his early boyhood on the home place. On January 
4. 1860, he married Miss Maria L. Stewart, of 
Allegheny county, Penn., who bore him two 
children, both deceased in early infancy. The 
mother died April 20, 1864, and for his second 
choice Mr. Cooper married October 20, 1870, Mary 
W., daughter of John Manown. They have four 
children, namely: Frank A., Samuel F., Clara G. 
and Ella F. , all living at home. 

Mr. Cooper has been an extensive traveler. He 
left home when a young man, and herded cattle 
six months for his uncle Van Vanvoorhis, in 
Illinois, in 1854; then returned home, and in the 
autumn of 1856 went to Missouri and Kansas, 
arriving in the latter State just at the close of the 
Kansas troubles. He then traveled throughout the 



West. In 1860 he and his wife moved to a tract 
of land in Iowa which his father had entered of 
the Government, remaining there three years, 
improving the land, when, his wife's health fail- 
ing, they returned to her home in Pennsylvania, 
where she died. He stayed at home the following 
summer, and in 1865 shipped a carload of horses 
to Illinois, sold his horses, organized a companv 
with Mr. V. B. Ward, of Richland. Keokuk Co., 
Iowa, and on April 13, 1S65, they started for 
California, in wagons, arriving at Salt Lake City, 
Utah, on the 4th of July following. They re- 
mained there one year, thence going to northern 
Montana, where they passed a year in the mines. 
He then entered the commissary and quarter- 
master's office as clerk in Montana, and was em- 
ployed there six months under James L. Fisk, 
afterward riding his horse 500 miles from Helena, 
Mont., to Walla Walla, on the Columbia river, 
thence going to San Francisco, Cal., where he sold 
books three months for H. H. Bancroft, finally re- 
turning to his present home in Nottingham town- 
ship. He is now proprietor of 160 acres, known 
as the "Nottingham stock farm," near Veiletia post- 
office. The farm is principally pasture land, and 
he makes a specialty of raising fine Jersey cattle, 
also a good grade of roadsters. Mr. Cooper in his 
political affiliations is a Democrat. 



y 



HUGHES, James M., Workman, Jr., Samuel 
L. and Thomas McK, prominent citizens of 
Washington, are sons of S. L. and Susan 
(Workman) Hughes. 

Barnabas Hughes was a native of Ireland, 
came to America in 1756, settling in what is now 
the State of New Jersey. He had two sons, Will- 
iam and John. John Hughes came to Carlisle in 
1 77> I. and after a few years entered theContinental 
army under Capt. Hendricks. The company in 
which he was placed was formed with eight other 
companies into a battalion of riflemen in July, 
1775, and placed in command of Col. William 
Thompson. They encamped at Cambridge, August. 
13, 1775, and in the month of September Capt. 
Hendricks' company, with others, left for Canada 
under command of Col. Arnold, and took part in 
the attack upon Quebec. After this expedition Mr. 
Hughes was promoted from the ranks to a captain- 
cy, and he remained with the army during the re- 
mainder of the war. being present at the battles of 
Princeton, Brandy wine, Germantown and Mon- 
mouth. At the conclusion of the struggle he mar- 
ried, in 17S6, Sarah Wiley, and came to Washing- 
ton county, Penn., with Timothy Ryan. Tiny 
purchased large tracts of land on Fish creek (now 
in Greene county), patented to them in August. 
1786; Mr. Hughes purchased Ryan's interest same 
year. During the year 1793 Mr. Hughes bought 



? ; 




t 




WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



513 



land on north branch of Ten- Mile creek, where he 
kept a store for about nine years, and in 1802 he 
removed to the town of Washington, where he con- 
tinued in the store business. After several years 
he returned to his land or farm in Amwell town- 
ship, where he died September 18, 1815, leaving 
six children: Mary Ann, James, Samuel, Thomas, 
John and Isabelle. Of these, James married Mary, 
daughter of Gen. Abner Lacock, and at their de- 
cease they left five children: Sarah, Susan, Mar- 
garet, Samuel L. and Ann Hughes. In March, 
1837, Samuel L. Hughes married Susan Workman. 
He was a successful farmer, and served as justice of 
the peace for seven terms, in Amwell township. 
He died in November, 1880, his widow in May, 
1885, leaving nine children, viz.: Ann F., Mary V., 
James M., Workman, Jr., John W., Elizabeth E. , 
Samuel L. , Susan R. and Thomas McK.,of whom 
Ann F. Hughes was married in 1861 to Hiram 
Vankirk, and they have two children: James H. 
and Francis J. Vankirk. 

James M. Hughes, eldest son of S. L. and Susan 
W. Hughes, at the age of eighteen years enlisted in 
the One Hundred and Fortieth Regiment P. V. I., 
for three years, or during the war. He partici- 
pated in all the battles and skirmishes of his regi- 
ment from Chancellorsville to Appomattox, forty- 
three engagements in all. In 1867 he married 
Sarah E. Bane, and their family consists of two 
sons: Blanchard G. and Haldain B. Hughes, who 
were graduated from Washington and Jefferson 
College in classes of '91 and '92 respectively. 
They each selected the law as a profession. Blan- 
chard is a student at present in the Buffalo Law 
School, Buffalo, N. Y. ; Haldain is registered with 
Messrs. Taylor & Mcllvaine, Washington, Penn. 

Workman Hughes, Jr. , second son of S. L. and 
Susan W. Hughes, was elected to the office of re- 
corder of deeds in November, 1878, and served six 
years, being the only recorder elected to that office 
for more than one term since 1842. During his 
term of office he, with the assistance of his broth- 
ers, James M., S. L. and T. McK. Hughes, made a 
complete index to the record of the office. When 
his term of office expired, January 1, 1885, he en- 
tered into the real estate and insurance business. 
On October 31, 1889, he married Hannah B. Wiu- 
gett, and they have two children: Susan W. and 
Howard W. Hughes. 

John W. Hughes, third son of S. L. and Susan 
W. Hughes, became a master machinist. He mar- 
ried, July 16, 1877, Martha S. Good, of Illinois; 
they now reside in New York City. They had a 
daughter, Susan W., who died of diphtheria at Fair 
Haven, Vt. , at the age of eight years. 

Samuel L. Hughes, fourth son of S. L. and 
Susan W. Hughes, was married November 11, 1883, 
to Minnie G. Spriggs, and they had three children: 
Margaretta, Susan W. and Thomas McKennan 



Hughes, of whom Margaretta died of diphtheria 
July 3, 1890. Mr. Hughes has been engaged in 
the real estate and life insurance business, in con- 
nection with his brother Workman Hughes, Jr., 
since January 1, 1885. 

Thomas McK. Hughes, fifth and youngest son of 
S. L. and Susan W. Hughes, studied law with the 
former firm of McCracken & Mcllvaine (the latter 
being the judge of courts of this county), and was 
admitted to practice in the several courts of the 
county at the June term, 1S80. At the age of 
twenty-three, and.since 1881, he has applied him- 
self to his profession, and is now enjoying a large 
and substantial practice. 

Mary V., Elizabeth E., Susan R. and Thomas 
McK. Hughes live on West Chestnut street, Wash- 
ington, Pennsylvania. 



THOMAS G. HAMILTON is one of the suc- 
cessful agriculturists of Nottingham town- 
ship, of which he is a native. His father, 
James R. Hamilton, was born, in 1818, in 
Peters township, Washington county, and 
received a classical education. During his earlier 
years he followed the profession of school teaching, 
and, being solely dependent upon his daily earn- 
ings for a livelihood, was obliged to practice strict 
economy. 

In 1846 James R. Hamilton was married to 
Miss Patience Morrison, a native of this county, 
and, having managed to save a small amount of his 
salary, the young man bought a little farm in Not- 
tingham township, this county, upon which he and 
his bride began their wedded life. They were poor 
in worldly goods, but happy and rich in the pos- 
session of health and love. Dame Fortune soon 
began to smile upon the brave young couple who 
met her frowns with such, cheery faces, and as 
years passed on children came to brighten the little 
home, as follows: Patience B. (wife of James H. 
Barkley), William H. L., Charles James Reed, 
John T. G., Joseph G. P., Elizabeth Ann, Mar- 
garet Elnora and Mary Jane. Of these the three 
latter are deceased. At the time of his death 
James R. Hamilton owned 300 acres of land. 

Thomas G. Hamilton was born May 30, 1861, 
in Nottingham township, Washington county, and 
there passed his boyhood. On January 10, 1883, 
he made choice of a life companion in the person 
of Anna C. , daughter of Benjamin Crawford, a 
very prominent farmer of this county. Four chil- 
dren have been born to this marriage, namely: 
John Reed, R. Lloyd, Patience May and Thomas 
Gleen. Mr. Hamilton owns eighty-two acres of 
the old homestead, and devotes much of his time 
to stock raising, making a specialty of sheep, in 
connection with general farming. 



514 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 




W. GREGG is descended from a family 
who were among the first settlers in East 
Pike Run township, this count}'. Many 
years ago three brothers, Henry, William 
and John Gregg, emigrated from the 
Emerald Isle, and made a permanent settlement in 
East Pike Run township. Henry took out a pat- 
ent for 349 acres of land known as the " Burning 
Mine," which is now owned by one Mr. Duvall. 
John Gregg was twice married, and William, the 
second brother, was the grandfather of R. W. 
Gregg. William Gregg was married to Ruth 
Jackman, a native of Ireland, and they settled on 
the farm in East Pike Run township, where five 
children were born, as follows: Henry (married to 
Jane Dowler), John (married to Nancy Gregg), 
Robert (married to Ann Robinson), Andrew and 
Margaret (Mrs. Crow). 

Andrew Gregg was born in March. 1808, in 
East Pike Run township, grew to manhood on the 
homestead, and was married to Mary Ann Hug- 
gins, who was born in 1812 in what is now Allen 
township, Washington county. Of the children 
born to this union, six are yet living, namely: 
Lucy Ann, wife of V. C. Jones, of Fallowfield 
township; Ruth Ann, married to William Sphar, 
of Allen township; A. J., living in East Pike Run 
township; R. W. (whose name opens this sketch); 
Sarah Jane, wife of Thomas F. Frye, of Chase 
county, Kans.,and J. H, living in Allen township. 
The father was actively identified with the inter- 
ests of the Republican party. He died on the old 
farm in 1872; his widow is yet living on the 
place. 

R. W. Gregg was born in 1848 on the home 
farm in East Pike Run township, and attended the 
common schools of the neighborhood. In 1881 
he was united in marriage with Emetine Beadle, 
a native of Fallowfield township, a daughter of 
Jacob and Mary (Wallace) Beadle, who were born 
in eastern Pennsylvania, and came to Fallowfield 
township in an early day ; her father died in 1887, 
her mother in 1872. By this union was born to 
Mr. Gregg one son, Delbert, who lived about three 
months and then died. The mother passed away 
October 17, 1881, and Mr. Gregg afterward mar- 
ried Lizzie M. Jobes, of Allen township, Washing- 
ton county, a daughter of William Jobes, whose 
father, John Jobes, was an early resident of the 
Monongahela Valley. By this marriage there 
were two sons: Albert R. and William Andrew. 
After his first marriage R. W. Gregg settled in 
Allen township, on the forty-six acres of well-culti- 
vated land which is now his home. He votes the 
Republican ticket, and in religious faith he is a 
member of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Mt. 
Tabor. Mrs. Lizzie M. Cregg died September 1, 
1892. 



*r""Y R- THOMPSON, a native of Chart iers 
IWx township, is a son of Andrew Thompson, 

Tl\ who was born February 7, 1793, also in 
JJ — s Chartiers township, and passed his early 
V life on the home farm, receiving a limited 

education at the subscription schools. On July 6, 
1S27, lie married Miss Elizabeth Bell, who was 
born May 23, 1797, in Mt. Pleasant township, this 
county. 

Andrew Thompson passed his married life on the 
farm in Chartiers township now occupied by our 
subject, and four children were born to him: Mary 
Ann (deceased April 22, 1870); R. R. ; Elizabeth 
M. (wife of James McBurney, of Hickory, Mt. 
Pleasant), and Jane (married to Mark Cowden, 
farmer, of Mt. Pleasant township). Andrew 
Thompson was a farmer, and in politics a standi 
Whig. In church connection he was formerly a 
Seceder, afterward uniting with the Hickory I . P. 
Church, of which he remained a member until his 
death, that event occurring January 23, 1860. 
Mrs. Thompson was laid to rest March 10, 187 1 . 

R. R. Thompson was born October 6, 1830, on 
the home farm in Chartiers township, this county, 
and was educated at the subscription and public 
schools of the vicinity. On October 4, 1871, he 
was united in marriage with Jane McBurney, a 
native of Mt. Pleasant township, this county, a 
daughter of John (2) and granddaughter of John 
(1) McBurney. John McBurney (the grandfather) 
was born in 1764 in County Down, Ireland, and 
in 1783 emigrated to America, locating in Washing- 
ton county, Penn. In 1798 he was married to 
Sarah Hunter, a native of Chambersburgh, Perm. 
Her grandfather was married in 1790, and then 
settled in Robinson township. Washington county, 
his son and grandchild Sarah (then a child of ten 
years) also making their home in this county. 
The grandfather died September 2, 1846, and was 
followed by his wife in 1863, in her ninetieth year. 

John McBurney (the father of Mrs. R. R. 
Thompson) was born June 29, 1802, in Robinson 
township, Washington county, and in early life 
changed his residence in Robinson township. On 
February 7, 1S28, he was married to Jane Keys, 
who was born in 1806, near Poland, Ohio, coming 
in 1808 to this dounty with her parents, and set 
ting in Mt. Pleasant township. She was a 
daughter of James Keys, who was born in 1766, 
in Washington county, and growing to manhood 
was married in Mt. Pleasant to Jane McClellan 
(born in 1783), and they settled on a farm in 
Smith township, this couuty, where seven children 
were born to them, three of whom are now living: 
James (in Steubenville. Ohio), Joseph (in Smith 
township), and Ezra C. (in Emporia, Kans., having 
located there). The parents of these children are 
now deceased. Mr. McBurney passed the first 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



515 



years of his married life on a farm in Mt. Pleasant 
township, this county, and in 1871 moved to 
Hickory, also in this county. John and Jane 
(Keys) McBurney were the parents of the following 
children: Jane (wife of R. R. Thompson); John 
(living ia Mt. Pleasant township); Sarah (widow 
of Robert Jeffery, of Canonsburg); James (living 
in Hickory, this county); Martha (Mrs. James 
Mcllvine, of Mt. Pleasant township); Elizabeth 
(deceased in 1846, aged six years); William (de- 
ceased in 1840, at the age of three years); Ezra 
(living with his family on the old homestead in Mt. 
Pleasant township), and William A. (who recently 
lost his wife) ; he has located in Canonsburg, Penn. ; 
his little daughter, Lizzie, died August 1 ■">. IS92. 
John McBurney was a member of the U. P. Church 
at Hickory, in which he was an elder for many 
years. He died April 8, 1S83, at his own homo in 
Hickory, Penn. ; his wife died at the home of her 
daughter Jane in Chartiers township, September 
29, 1884. 

After his marriage to Jane McBurney, Mr. R. R. 
Thompson settled on his present home of 175 
acres of well -cultivated land, where his time is 
principally employed in farming and stock raising. 
Mr. Thompson votes with the Republican party, 
but prefers to devote his principal attention to 
private business. He and his wife are members 
of the U. P. Church at Hickory, this county. 



M/RS. ELLEN J. CARTER, widow of John 
Carter,is a native of Mt. Pleasant township, 
a daughter of Matthew Kemps, who was 
^ born in Ireland. He was married to 
Nancy Peoples, and their children were 
eight in number, as follows: John, James Peoples, 
Elizabeth Ann, David, Ellen Jane,, Thomas Slater, 
Samuel and Matthew McNary, all born in Wash- 
ington county. The mother of this family died 
in 1850, and the father afterward moved to Sigour- 
ney county, Iowa, where he passed the remainder 
of his life. Ellen J. Kemps was married in Au- 
gust, 1865, to John Carter, a native of Washington 
county, son of William Carter, who was born in 
Scotland and was married to Ann McKee. In 
1819 they immigrated to America, locating in 
Washington county, Penn., near the town of 
Washington, but afterward moved to Mt. Pleasant 
township, same county, where they died. They 
had seven children, viz.: Margaret, Robert, Janet, 
Maria, John, Thomas and Margaret Ann. 

John Carter was born in 1826, near Washington, 
Penn., and received a limited education in the 
schools of Mt. Pleasant township, commencing to 
work on the farm when but ten years of age. 
After his marriage to Miss Kemps he bought the 
farm where his son is now living, which contains 
220 acres, and devoted his time to its cultivation 



f 



and improvement. Three children were born to 
thisunion: William H., married to Maggie White, 
who bore him one daughter: Margaret Hazel (they 
are living on the home farm); Leila Ada, a gradu- 
ate of Curry University, Pittsburgh, Penn., and 
Robert Leander, a student at the academy, in 
Hickory, Penn. Mr. Carter was actively interested 
in politics, voting with the Republican party, but. 
preferring to devote the greater part of his time 
to private business and domestic pleasures. He 
died in 1N~7, in Mt. Pleasaut township, deeply 
mourned by all who knew him as a good friend and 
honorable, useful citizen. His widow is yet resid- 
ing on the old homestead. She is a member of 
the United Presbyterian Church, at Hickory, with 
which her husband wits also connected. 



AMUEL RONEY, a prominent agriculturist 
of the county, was born September 29, 1820, 
in a round-log cabin built by his father iu 
West Einley township, Washington Co., 
Penn. Hercules Roney, his grandfather, was a 
native of County Donegal, Ireland, whence, when 
a young man, he emigrated to America, coming 
direct to Ohio county, W. Va., where he patented 
100 acres of land and built a cabin thereon. He 
also patented a large tract of land in what is now- 
West Fiuley township, this county. He partici- 
pated in many perilous adventures with the Indians, 
and took an active part in the battle in which 
Crawford was defeated. He erected a blockhouse 
for many years known as " Roney' s blockhouse, " 
and on this historic spot now stands a handsome 
residence, occupied by John Roney, a descendant 
of Hercules Roney, who died in July, 1812. He 
was one of the very first settlers in Washington 
county, and was among the most widely known of 
the county's pioneers. He married Margaret, 
daughter of William Buchanan, a native of West 
Finley township, and to this union were born five 
sons and four daughters, all long since deceased. 
William Roney, father of subject, was reared on 
the home farm, where be was born, and where, 
under his father's preceptorship, he learned prac- 
tical lessons in agriculture, which in after life 
served to make him oue of the most successful 
farmers in his township. On November 9, 1809. 
he was married to Jane Lawrence, who bore him 
six children: Samuel and Jane (twins), James, 
Maggie, William and John. 

Samuel Roney received his education at the 
schools of the locality of his birth, and April 15, 
1839, being then nineteen years old, he left home 
to learn the trade of a tanner, which he followed 
several years till ill-health compelled him to aban- 
don it. He then turned his attention to farming 
pursuits, which he afterward successfully carried 
on. In May, 1843, he was united in marriage 



fill'. 



ii ASHING rOA cot \ TY. 



with Mary A., daughter of John Sutherland, and 
the following named ohildren have been born to 
them: Lizzie, Mary, Maggie Bell, W. (>. (a resi 
dent of Eopewell township), J. L, (in Olayaville, 
Penn. ,) and Samuel A (who is on the farm with 
his father). The mother died July 3, 1892, and 

is buried in Buffal aetery. < >n November 22, 

1892, Mr. Roney, with his daughter, Mary, moved 
i" Claysville, where they are now Living, In 1843 
he joined the Presbyterian Church in WestAlexan 
der and moved to Upper Buffalo in 1850. Iu 
polities he is a lifelong Republican, having cast his 
first vote in 1841. Mr. Rone} is gifted with a re 
markable memory, and is considered an authority 
on all subjects requiring thought and study. 



Q GORGE E. SMITH. George Smith was 
born in the Emerald Isle, and orossing the 
ocean at an early date Bettled near Greens- 
[ burgh, Westmoreland Co., Penn. When a 
young man he was married to Miss Todd, n 
native of Westmoreland county, who bore him 
eight children, namely: William, Mary, Thomas, 
David, Nancy, George, Edward and .Martha, all 
now deceased. The father devoted his life toagri- 
cultural pursuits. 

Thomas Smith was born in 1780, in Westmore- 
land county, Penn., where his boyhood was passed. 
Be was united in marriage with Nancy, daughter 
of David Stewart, a prominent farmer living near 
Pittsburgh, Allegheny county, and four children 
Were born to their union, as follows: George E., 
Amelia and two unnamed. The father learned the 
saddler's trade when a young man, and followed 
same for some time iu Voiingstow n, Penn. After 
the death of his wife he removed to Blizabethtown, 

1\ y . , where he passed his later years. 

George E, Smith was born January IS, 1S20, in 
foungstown, Penn., and remained there until 
ab 'in ten years of age, He then accompanied his 
father to Kentucky, where he resided during his 
minority, and where he cast his first vote. He then 
returned to Allegheny oounty, Penn., and saw the 
first steamboat that landed at Pittsburgh. On 
October 30, 1845, he married Phoebe, daughter of 
Thomas and Rebecca Kearns, who lived in Alle 
gheny county, about two mile- from Pittsburgh. 
After his marriage he taught school about ten 
years, then conducteda wholesale grocery bus 

lor about four years, and in 1 S ."> 7 rame to their 
present farm in Peters township, Washington 
county. Soon after locating in this county he was 
elected a justice ,.f the peace by the Democratic 
party, and he has held this position for seven consec- 
utive term-, enjoying the distinction of being the 
only justice in Washington county who has had 
but one decision reversed by the higher courts. 
During thirty five years of official service he has 



won the estoem and conlhleiu f all who know 

him, and has) i intrusted with important business 

by many citizens of Peters township. He is a 
member and liberal supporter of the Presbyterian 

Church at Fairview. Three children have I q 

bom to them, namely: Edward T.. Rebecca K. 
i wife of George Hayes), and John s. 

Edwaed T. Smith was born September 5, L846,in 
Allegheny county, Penn., and lived there until he 
was eight years of age, when he CHIUe to his pies 
out home iu Peters township, Washington county. 
\\ ben a young man he learned t he carpenter's t rade, 
wlneli he followed twelve years, and was then em- 
ployed as sawyer in a sawmill for five years. Ou 
January .">. 1865, he was married to Jennie Ham 
ilion. of Nottingham township, daughter of Henry 

Hamilton. The young couple first settled in Power 

Hill, Washington county, and in the .spring of 1892 
came to the farm in Peters township which was given 
him by his aunt, Miss Fannie J. Stewart. Edward 
T. and Jennie Smith are the parents of the follow- 
ing children: Margaret A., Carrie I Mrs. Robert 
Hixon), George H. (deceased), William S,, Ada 
Bell, Susan A. and Amelia T. Mr. Smith owns 
tifty one acres of land, also a house and lot in 
Bower Hill. He is a Democrat in politics, and is 
past counsellor of the Jr. O. U. A. M. He is a 
member of Yenetin Council, No. 598. In religious 
faith he is a member of Peter-- Creek Tinted Pies 
by terian Church. 



ISRAEL WEIRICH. Late in the last century 
the ancestors of the Weirich family came from 
( lermany . ami located in eastern Pennsylvania. 
There, iu Lebanon county, in 1804, Jacob 
Weirich, the father of subject, was born, and then' 
passed the first few years of his life. At an early 
age he accompanied his parents westward, settling 
with them on the original Weirich homestead in 
Washington county, where the remainder of his 
long life was spent. The county was then little 
more than a wilderness, not yet having given evi- 
dence Of those varied resources which have since 

made it so Famous. 

The story of his boyhood is that of almost any 
youth in similar circumstances. In early manhood 
he w as married to Susan. daughter of Fredrick 1 \ >B 
ter.of Washington, Penn. With small means, but 

full of Confidence and with bright hopes for the fut- 
ure, the young couple entered upon what proved 
to be a long and happy married life. Of the five 
children born to them four survive: Israel, Eliza- 
beth (Mis. William Eh I. Mary (Mrs. Simon Ash 
brook) and Susan (Mrs. James Mountz). The 
youngest daughter, Amanda (Mrs. William Mor 
ton i, died in 1882 from the effects of blood poison 
ing. In the spring of 1885, while still active and 
apparently hale and strong, Mr. Weirich was 





<$.-jasu£ ^t^X 



WASHINGTON COU.\ VY. 



519 



stricken with paralysis, from the effects of which 
he died August 12, same year, at the advanced age 
of eighty-oue years. In his life Mr. Weirich, 
though singularly quiet and unobtrusive, was yel 
a man of broad views and unselfish aims, ever ready 
with moral and financial support for any enter- 
prise which had for its object the advancement or 
good of the community. In his occupation he bad, 
from small beginnings, reached independence and 
prosperity through perseverance, industry and fru- 
gality, coupled with that surest method — strict infeg 
rity. Always living up to those principles which 
later in life ho openly avowed by uniting with the 
East Buifalo Presbyterian Church, he was ever rec- 
ognized as upright and straightforward in business 
transactions, a kind, indulgent husband and father, 
and an esteemed neighbor and friend. Regarding his 
political views, Mr. Weirich was formerly a Whig, 
afterward a Republican, but always refrained from 
participating actively in political affairs. His 
widow, Mrs. Susan Weirich, a lady wonderfully 
strong and active for her age, still survives and re- 
sides in Washington, Pennsylvania. 

Israel Weirich, the subject of our sketch, is the 
oldest child and only son born to Jacob and Susan 
(Foster) Weirich. Born and raised upon his fat tier's 
farm, he has followed agricultural pursuits all his 
life, and his energy, foresight and constant atten 
tion to duty have been rewarded with a measure of 
success beyond the average. Mr. Weirioh's boy 

1 il days would hardly accord with the popular 

idea of the early life of an only son. The practi- 
cal side of the gospel of work was among his lirst 
lessons. A part of each winter at the dist rict school 
composed the sum of his school education; and 
while yet very young he assumed the management 
of the major portion of his father's increasing in- 
terests at the sacrifice of opportunities for a more 
liberal education, a course which he regretted ever 
afterward. HiH loss in this respect, however, was 
a gain in the dearer school of experience, the les 
sons of which were constantly turned to practical 
account in his after life. On March 80, 1859, Mr. 
Weirich was united in marriage with Sarah, daugh- 
ter of James and Sarah Thompson, of Buifalo 
township, and immediately settled upon and took 
charge of his father's farm in the same township. 
Three years later he removed to his present home in 
Canton township, a farm of 2'2~> acres, which he 
has since been constantly improving until it is one 
of the most complete aud desirable in the county. 
In 1887 the old homestead, which had originally 
been one of the old taverns in the days of the stage 
coach, was removed and replaced by an elegant 
modern structure, beautifully situated and com- 
plete in all its appointments. A large family — 
seven sous and two daughters — have been born to 
Mr. and Mrs. Weirich, all yet living with the ex- 
ception of one daughter who died in childhood. 



Though his sense of duty compelled him to fore 
go his earlier educational advantages, through the 
influence of extended travel, constant reading and 
his lively interest in all public affairs, Mr. Weirich 
is a man of liberal ideas and broad views. Profit 
ing by his own experience and fully realizing the 
benefits of a liberal education, he has sent four 
sons to Washington and Jefferson College, and his 
daughter to the Washington Female Seminary. 
In politics Mr. Weirich is a Republican, though 
uot a strong partisan. He never allowed party 
lines to restrain him from casting his vote on what 
he considered the side of justice and right, in favor 
of whatever political party it might be. He has 
been a lifelong member of the Presbyterian 
Church; was for many years a ruling elder in the 
East Buffalo Church, and was one of the founders 
of, and is a ruling elder in, the Third Presbyterian 
Church of Washing! Pennsylvania. 

Always cautious and prone to weigh well any 
enterprise before entering into it, it was his prac- 
tice, when a course was resolved on, to pursue it 
with an energy characteristic of his German extrac 
tion, and with results which demonstrated his 
belief in the truth of the maxim: "Whatever is 
worth doing at all is worth doing well." 

While good fortune has so uniformly followed 
him in his various undertakings, Mr. Weirich has 
ever been ready to extend a helping hand to those 
who have been less fortunate in this world's 
affairs. His acts of charity, however, have always 
been performed in a quiet, undemonstrative manner, 
rendered the more so by his invariable habit of dis- 
persing them widely and without regard to sector 
creed. If, however, hischarities have been extended 
in any one direction more than another, it has been 
with a view to the relief and uplifting of the 
colored race in the South. Ever a friend of the 
negroes, with a full realization of their present 
condition, gained directly by travel and observation 
in the South, and with a firm belief in a bright 
future for the race, he has been constant with sym- 
pathy and financial support for their cause. 



JOHN PATTERSON CLUTTER, a prosperous 
farmer and miller, Morris township, is a de 
scendant of an old Irish American family. 
John Clutter, a native of Ireland, immigrated 
to New Jersey in early colonial days, and is the 
earliest ancestor of the family in this country. 
He moved to Washington county, Penn., in L788, 
and located on a farm of about six hundred acres 
one mile north of Lindley's Mills, where he died 
in 1 S28. One of his sons, John, born February 
17, 1771, married in Pennsylvania, March 1, 1792, 
Phoebe Headley, a native of New Jersey, born Octo- 
ber 16, 1774. In 1792 they located on a farm about 
one mile northwest of Lindley's Mills, in Morris 



520 



WASHINGTON COUNT?. 



township, where thej reared a family of thirteen 
children, their names and dates of birth being as 
follows: Nancy, October 29, L792; [saae, July 8, 
IT'.M; Abraham, October 29, 1795; Jacob, August 
5, 1797; Abigail, July 13, 1799; Martha, August 
19, 1801; Eunice, Maj 3, 1804; John P. (the 
father of the subject of tins sketch); Ruth B., 
October 22, 1 80S, Joseph, October 2, 1810; Phoebe, 
February is. 1813; Hannah. August is. 181 I; 
Luvina, January 28, IMS; of whom Joseph and 
Hannah are t ho only living members. Joseph was 
married, in Washington county, Penn., and removed 
to Missouri in 1876, where he now resides, Han 
nah married, in 1838, Samuel Booth, who died of 
typhoid fever in 1839, and in L851 Mrs Booth 
married L. F. Day; Mr. Day died id 1852. He 
was a Christian gentleman, a strong advocate of 
tlie abolition of slavery, and an earnest worker in 
the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, of which 
Mrs. 1 >iiy is also a member. 

.John Patterson Clutter, the eighth child horn to 
John and Phoebe (Headley) Clutter, was horn Sep- 
tember 2, 1807, in Morris township. Washington 
county. He was reared to farm life, and received 
but a meager education. He married, in 1835, 
Margaret Andrew, also a native of Morris town- 
ship, horn January 11, 1816, and seven children 
were born to them, five of whom are living, as 
follows: Maria, born July I, 1836; James Jasper, 
horn August 28, 1838, now a resident of Hamilton, 
Caldwell Co., Mo.; Thomas II. Benton, horn 
August 2, IS II, a prominent physician of Crest- 
lino. Ohio; Evelina,, born September 16, 1844; 
Samuel B., hom August II. 1846, engaged in the 
hotel business at Washington; John Patterson; 
Robert M., horn April U». 1857, connected with 
the W. & W. Ft. It. Company, and residing at 
Waynesburgh, Greene Co., Penn. 

John Patterson Clutter, the sixth child of John 
P. and Margaret (Andrew) Clutter, was born Jan 

nary 23, 1854. He received a < imon sol 1 

education, and afterward attended Monongahela 
College, at Jefferson, Penn, Alter leaving college 

he taught School for a period of three years, when 

be began the operation of the mill, which he now 
successfully controls. Mr. Clutter married Jan- 
uary 3, 1880, Mary Alice, a daughter of Hamilton 
Penn, of Morris township, and to them have been 
born live children : Cleveland. Joanna Grace, Ber 

nice Margaret, John H. and Emma, till of whom 

(except Cleveland, who died at the age of six 

months) are still living. Mr. Clutter is an ardent 

De oil. and was elected county a u. lit or in 1889, 

receiving the largest vote in his own township of 

any candidate before the people. Both he and 
Mrs. Clutter are members of the ( 'nmborland I 'res 
byterian Church, at West Onion, Penn. In addi 
tion to his mill work he owns and conducts a farm. 



JOSEPH V. MANES, an influential and pros- 
perous citizen of North Strabane township, 
was born January 25, 1839, in Elizabeth 
township, Allegheny Co. , Penn. , the young- 
est son of Culbert and Susan (Vankirk) Manes, 

Culbert Manes was born August 14, IT'.tS, in 
Elizabeth township, Allegheny county, where be 
wns married February IT, 1N24, t,> Susan Alice 
Vankirk, a daughter of Samuel Vankirk, of New 
Jersey birth, who belonged to an old pioneer lam 
ily. He took part in the battle of Urandywiue. ami 
several of his family served under Gen. Washington. 
He was married to Mary Price, of New Jersey . and 
their children were: Samuel, Joseph, John, Isaac. 
Thomas, William, Sarah, Betsy, Mary, Ruth and 
Susan (Mrs. Culbert Manes). Mr. Vankirk fol- 
lowed agricultural pursuits; in politics he was a 
Democrat. After the marriage of Culbert Manes, 
he located in Allegheny county, near Elizabeth, but 
in the spring of PS~>7 made a permanent sett lenient 
in North Strabane township, Washington county, 
where he engaged in farming. The following chil- 
dren were born to Mr. and Mrs. Culbert Manes; 
John P., born December I. 1824; Mary J. (Mrs. 
Greer), bom March 7, 1N2C>; Samuel, born Janu- 
ary 'J. L828, died February 6 1829; Margaret A. 
(Mrs. Lyon), born January 12, 1834, and Joseph 
V., born January 25, 1839. Mr. Mane-, was a 
Democrat, and served his party in different capaci- 
ties. He and his wife were ardent members of the 
Presbyterian Church. He died August 5, 1889, 
having been preceded In his wife I Vcember I , lSSl I. 
Joseph V. Manes passed his early life in Alle- 
gheny county, Penn. , where he obtained a common 
school education, and when eighteen years of age 
came to North Strabane township. On May 8, 
L862, he was married to Caroline Pebout, whowas 
born January 29, 1844, daughter of Peter Bebout 
and granddaughter of John Bebout, who came from 
Scotland in an early day: and died in Washington 
county. Peter BebOUt was a native of New Jer 
Sey, and was married to Isabella Cooper, who was 
born August 12, 1805, in Ohio. They settled in 
Washington county, Penn.. in an early day, and 
reared the following children: Mary J. (wife of 
William Hays), born August 27, 1825; Susan (wile 
of William Pebout, a retired farmer of Washing- 
Ion county), born November 26, 1826; Ira. are- 
tired farmer of Washington county, born Septem- 
ber 5, 1828; Margaret (wife of Cephas Cochran), 
bo,,, Augu-t 31,1830, died February 10, 1858; 
David R., a retired farmer of Washington county, 
born Septembei 3, 1832; Isabella (wife of John 
Crouch), born April 7. L834; Joshua, born July 5, 
L836; Stephen, born October 21, 1838 (deceased); 
Martha.l. born January 18, 1841 (deceased Feb 
rnary 2">, 1842); Caroline S. (wife of Joseph 
Manes), born January 29, 1844; Hermon H. (a re 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



521 



tired farmer ami slock dealer of Canonslmrg), born 
August 31, 1 S 47. Peter Bebout was married twice, 
and was the father of twenty children. [There is 
do record of his first wife. | He bad five brothers 

and four sisters. Mr. and Mrs. Helmut were con 
sistent members of the Presbyterian Church. 

To the union of Joseph V. and Caroline (lie 
bout) Manes have been burn children as follows: 

John .1., born August, 24, 1863 (married February 
'.I, 1888, to Nannie Wallace, who bore him one 
child, Flora Myrtle, on March 10,1889); Laura 
A., bom February 18, 1865 (deceased September 
'_".», 1867); William H., born .January 17, 1868; 
.lames K, born November 22, L869; Mary L., born 
April II. L872; Joseph, born November 21, l*7o; 
Dora S., bom April 15, 1N7N; Glvde A., born Mav 
1, 1880; Charles ('., bom Febru'arj L9, 1883; Os 
oar L., born May 7, 1886. Mr. and Mrs. Manes 
have been identified with the history of ii onnty 

many years, and have taken an active interest in 
all public enterprises. Mr. Manes has followed 
agricultural pursuits, and now owns a fertile ami 
well cultivated farm of I 15 acres. Mr. and Mrs. 
Manes are consistent members of the Presbyterian 
Church. 



SAMUEL ALEXANDER (deceased). The 

ancestors of this well known citizen were 

numbered with those heroic pioneers, the 
slory of whose lives is ever new. That 
"truth is stranger than fiction" is amply proveD 
when we read the thrilling adventures and hair 

breadth escapes of those who gave to us our fair 
homes, by sacrificing in many cases all that was 
dearest, to their own happiness. Men of iron, firm 
in the lino of duty wheresoe'er it called, never 
flinching though the nexi moment might be then 

last Women who with teai'leSS eyes could, like the 

Spartan mother, semi their best beloved to victory 
or death — such were the ancestors of the \l< . 
ander family. 

Samuel Alexander was bom in (he Emerald Isle 
of Scotch-Irish parents, and was a soldier in 
the British army. His children were Joseph, 
Samuel and Thomas, the latter born March L3, 
1758. This family emigrated to America some 
time during the first part of the seventeenth cent 
ury, settling in Maryland. Joseph was born at 
Chadd's Ford, Md., in 1766, and about the year 
L785 came with his brothers, Thomas ami Samuel. 
lo Washington county, IVnn. In March. 1786, 
lley took out a patent for 400 acres of land on 
Millers run, which was then included in Washing 
ton county, now in Allegheny county. Some time 
after this purchase Joseph sold his interest in the 
land to his brothers and purchased, of one Mercer, 
a farm near Canonslmrg. Descendants of the Mer- 
cer family may be yet living in Florence, l'enn. 



In early life Joseph Alexander was married lo 
Elizabeth West, who was bom June 7, 1777. To 
this marriage were born the children, two soiib 
and three daughters, namely: Mary (Mrs. Mahoodl, 
Samuel. Elizabeth (Mrs. Dickson), Dr. J. W. Ales 
ander. of Ganonsburg, ami Susan (Mi's. Quail), all 
now deceased. The father of this family died 
March 23, IS2S; tl .other on September ■'!'. 1866 

Samuel Alexander, second child of Joseph and 
Elizabeth (West) Alexander, was bom June ;i. 
In I I , on the home farm near Ganonsburg, North 
Strabane township, Washington count \ On Jan 
nary 24, I860, he was united in marriage with 
Miss Mary Logan Van Eman, a daughter of Joseph 
and Isabella Logan Van Eman. The lirst child 
born to this union was a son that died in infancy; 
the second whs a daughter, Mary Elizabeth, who 
was born May 21, L868, and died December 10, 
INS9. The father was called to enter (he silent 

land October 2, L874, and Mrs. Alexander is now 
residing in Ganonsburg, though yel retaining pos- 
Bession of the old homestead in North Strabane 
township. This family were Presbyterians, as were 

idl the families of the ( nection in past genera 

tions as far as known. 



A. MoCALMONT, This gentleman belongs 

to a prominent pioneer family, who were 
identified with the early history of Pennsyl- 
vania. John McCalmonl was born in Lan- 
caster county, l'enn., and there married Mary 
Proudfit, a native of the same place. The young 
couple came to Washington county, and settled in 
Mt. Pleasant township, where the wife died. He 
was there married to Mis. Margaret (McKee) 
Moore, who died on the farm now owned by their 
grandson. 

John McCalmont, son of John and Mar) 

(Proudfit) McCalmont, was bom in 1818, in Mt. 

Pleasant township, and on April 15, IN 12, was 
united in marriage with Mary Ann Moore, born 
January 7, L822, in the same township, a daughter 
of John and Margaret (McKee) Moore. The 

father who was a lifelong resident of this county, 
was killed in 1834 while attending the raising of 
the II P. church in Hickory. His widow some 
years after married this same John McCalmont. 
John and Mary A. (Moore) McCalmont celebrated 
their golden wedding June 14, 1892, and on March 
10, 1 SDH, he was called to his rest. Their family 
areas follows: Margaret N. , (yet living with her 
parents), John II. (sketch of whom follows), S. A. 
(of whom further mention is made), J. Andrew 
Hirst married to Anna Marsha, deceased, t hen to 
Hester Pel i ugh uy son ; is a U. P. minister at Dexter. 
Iowa), W. A. (married to Emma, daughter of Rev. 



522 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



W. A. McConnell, of Hickory, this county), Mary 
A. (wife of John P. White, of Mt. Pleasant town- 
ship), Jennie E. (Mrs. R. G. Jeffrey, Cross Creek 
township), and Rev. D. T. (married to Lelah 
Donaldson; is a U. P.' minister at Glade Mills, 
Butler Co., Penn). The father had been au active 
worker in the Republican party, and he and his wife 
were members of the U. P. Church at Hickory, 
this county. 

John H. McCalmont was born December 21, 
1844, on the old farm in the southern part of Mt. 
Pleasant township, near Mt. Prospect church. He 
is the second child of John and Mary Ann (Moore) 
McCalmont, whose history is given in these pages. 
He attended the Rankin and Cherry Valley dis- 
trict schools during his boyhood, and in March, 
L865, enlisted in Company G, One Hundred and 
Tenth P. V. I., was mustered into service at Pitts- 
burgh, Penn., and assigned to the Second Corps, 
Army of the Potomac. He served till the close of 
the war, took part in the Grand Review at Wash- 
ington and Bailey's Cross Roads, and was dis- 
charged in 1865, at Arlington Heights. After the 
war the soldier garb was exchanged for the attire 
of a farmer, and he began working in the harvest 
field. 

On February 27, 1879, he married Elizabeth, 
daughter of William and Rachel (May) McConnell, 
all three natives of Cecil township, this county. 
In 1883 her parents moved to Hickory, where the 
mother died January 9, 1887. In 1881 Mr. and 
Mrs. McCalmont settled on their present farm, 
which contains 132 acres of well-cultivated land. 
For the past five years he has been engaged in 
the dairy business, milking from eighteen to 
twenty cows per day. He is actively identified 
with the Republican party, and both he and his 
wife are members of the Mt. Pleasant U. P. 
Church, at Hickory. They have two children, 
Wilbert and Rachel May. 

S. A. McCalmont (whose name opens this sketch) 
was born December 22, 1846, on the home 
farm in Mt. Pleasant township, and received his 
education in the district schools. On September 
28, 1875, he was married to Mattie A. Jeffrey, who 
was born in Cross Creek township, this county, 
daughter of Robert and Eliza (Russell) Jeffrey. 
The father was born in Canton township, the 
mother in Chartiers township, and after their mar- 
riage they settled in Cross Creek township. Mr. 
Jeffrey commenced life a poor boy, but accumu- 
lated a good property; his wife died in January, 
1878. Mr. and Mrs. S. A. McCalmont began mar- 
ried life in Mount Pleasant township, where she 
died November 7, 1877. Mr. McCalmont is an act- 
ive member of the Republican party, and a mem- 
ber and trustee of the United Presbyterian Church 
at Hickorv. 



J| AMES P. McCALMONT. The genealogy of 
| the promineut family of which this gentleman 
I is a worthy representative can be traced to one 
William McCalmont (then spelled McCain - 
mout), who was a native of Lancaster county, 
Penn., and served seven years in the Revolution- 
ary war. A relative, the famous Maj. James Mc- 
Cammont, had charge of forty troopers when Gen. 
Washington crossed the Delaware, and was a dis- 
tinguished officer throughout the Revolutionary 
war. William McCammont and his relatives 
were very prominent workers in the churches of 
the Cumberland Valley, in eastern Pennsylvania. 
He came to Cross Creek township, Washington 
county, soon after the close of the Revolutionary 
war, and was buried in this county; but little, how- 
ever, is known concerning his life. 

His son, John McCalmont, was born in 1781, in 
Lancaster county, Penn., and was married to Mary 
Proudfit, of York county. In 1808 he and his 
wife crossed the mountains on horseback with their 
only child James. They located about one mile 
west of Hickory, in Mt. Pleasant township, Wash- 
ington county, where he followed the blacksmith's 
trade, also being a successful farmer, and rapidly 
accumulated property. At the age of sixty years 
he retired from active work. He was a perfect 
type of the hospitable, generous-hearted, social 
pioneer, always glad to welcome friends at any 
time. He died in 1859, and was buried iu the 
Hickory TJ. P. cemetery, of which church he was a 
member. In politics he was a Whig originally, 
and later a Republican. John McCalmont was 
twice married, and his first wife bore him the fol- 
lowing children: James, Nancy (never married), 
Mary (wife of John Henderson, Mt. Pleasant town- 
ship). David (a farmer of Mt. Pleasant township), 
John (living in Mt. Pleasant township, was married 
April 15, 1842, and on June 14, 1892, celebrated 
his golden wedding; he died March 10, 1893, 
and was buried March 13), Alexander (a retired 
citizen of West Middletown, Penn. ), Eliza (Mrs, 
Samuel Moore, of Mt. Pleasant township) and Sam- 
uel (deceased at the age of twenty years). Alex 
ander is the only living member of this family. 
The mother died and was buried in Hickory ceme- 
tery, and for his second wife John McCalmont was 
married to Mrs. Margaret (McKee) Moore, a wid- 
ow lady, who bore him no children, and survived 
him seven years. She was buried in the Hickory 
cemetery. 

Jamea McCalmont (son of John) was born Jan- 
uary 29, 1807, in York county, Penn., and was but 
a child when he crossed the mountains with his 
parents to Washington county. His education was 
received in the log cabin schools of Mt. Pleasant 
township, and his boyhood was passed on the farm 
of his father, where, as the eldest son, a consider 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



523 



able amount of work fell to his share. In early 
youth he took charge of the home farm, and in 
1835 was married to Sarah McBurney, who was 
born in 1811, near Midway, in Washington county, 
a daughter of John and Sarah (Hunter) McBurney. 
The following children were born to James and 
Sarah McCalmont: Mary A., Mrs. Samuel Fisher, 
of Columbiana county, Ohio; Elizabeth J., wife 
of John H. Miller, of Mt. Pleasant township; John 
A., a farmer, of Robinson township; James P., 
whose sketch follows; Sarah H., wife of W. B. Mc- 
Clure, au expert civil engineer of Los Angeles, 
Cal. ; David A., a farmer, of Robinson township; 
Robert Mc. , au agriculturist, living near Xenia, 
Ohio; Esther A., wife of Rev. Joseph McNab, a 
U. P. minister, of Tingley, Iowa: and Kate, 
married to Rev. J. A. Shrader, a U. P. min- 
ister, of Butler county, Penu. Mr. and Mrs. 
McCalmont resided on a farm in Mt. Pleasant 
township for three years after their marriage, 
and in 1839 removed to Robinson township, this 
county, purchasing the farm of Rev. Moses Allen, 
where they lived many years. James McCalmont 
was a scientific farmer and an extensive wool grower, 
giving considerable attention and study to the im- 
provement in quality and length of that staple, 
and meeting with signal success. He was a leader 
in the Associate Church, and in 1839 was elected 
as an elder in the Burgettstown Church, where he 
remained until 1863. He then transferred his 
membership to the newly-organized Centre U. P. 
Church, in which he was installed as elder, hold- 
ing that office until his death. In politics he was 
a Whig and Republican, and was a very strong 
Abolitionist. Although his party was hopelessly 
in the minority in Robinson township, he was 
chosen to fill nearly every local office; he was sec- 
retary of the local division of the first temperance 
society organized in his neighborhood; was the first 
road commissioner under the new system, and was 
elected squire two terms. A true and faithful 
friend, and an honored citizen, he passed to his 
rest October 31, 1890, with the words: "The old 
man is worn out. I am at peace with my friends, 
my family and my God." His wife had preceded 
him in 1879, and both are buried in the Centre 
cemetery, near Midway. 

James P. McCalmont was born November 18, 
1842, near Candor, Washington Co., Penn., and 
received a very fair education, considering his 
limited opportunities, the greater part of his time 
being devoted to farm work. On August 22, 1867, 
he was united in marriage with Mary C. McFar- 
land, who was born December 29, 1844, daughter 
of Samuel and Jane (Van Emman) McFarland, of 
Robinson township. The children of this family 
are as follows: Luella, Sarah J., Samuel J., Jo- 
seph M., John E. and Robert V. All are living 
and at home. After his marriage James P. Mc- 



Calmont resided in Mt. Pleasant township four 
years, then located in North Fayette township, 
Allegheny county. In 1875 he came to Hanover 
township. Washington county, and settled on the 
"John McConneli " farm, where he has suce 9ss 
fully followed general farming, stock raising and 
dairy business. He has an excellent, practical 
education, and is a progressive man. In 186S he 
was elected an elder of the U. P. Church at Cen- 
tre, and in 1876 became a member of the Paris U. 
P. Church, with which his wife and four eldest 
children are identified. Politically he is a Repub- 
lican, and is in sympathy with the Prohibition 
doctrine. 




ILLIAM H. HILL is a descendant (if 
Joseph Hill, who was the first of the 
Hill family to settle inWashington county. 
— ' He was an Irishman, and first came to 
Maryland in 1774, thence movingto West 
Bethlehem township, he settled on Plum run, west 
of Beallsville, and took up 600 acres of land. The 
Indians at this early date were so numerous and 
hostile that he was obliged to abandon the tract, 
and go east for a time; upon his return later 
he was not molested. Here he lived the remainder 
of his days, dying upon the farm in about 1820. 
He was twice married, his first wife being a Miss 
Ackley, and his second a Miss Margaret Joy. From 
these marriages thirteen children were born: 
Joseph, married to Mary Jamison; James, married 
to Ann Hill; Thomas, married to Rachel Speers; 
John, married to Nancy Sargeaut; Margaret, wife 
of James Beatty; Elizabeth, wife of John Welsh; 
Sarah, married to John Sargeant; Benjamin, mar- 
ried to Delilah Notestine; William, married to 
Narcissa Beatty ; Atkinson, married to Miss Reenn'r : 
Rebecca, who became Mrs. William Freeman; 
Eleanor, married to William Hawkins, now living 
in Kansas; and Henry, a bachelor, who removed 
to Ohio. Politically Joseph Hill was a Federalist 
and a Whig. 

James Hill was born on the old home place, 
March 21, 1777, and spent his whole life there. 
He received a fair education in a country school, 
•but was a great reader, and possessed a good mem- 
ory. At twenty-one years of age he engaged in 
farming, and cleared up the home tract of 160 
acres. On October 20, 1797, he married Annie, 
daughter of Robert Hill. To them eight children 
were born, viz. : Joseph, Margaret, Nancy, John, 
Fanny, James, Stephen and Robert. The last died 
January 29, 1893. To each of them he presented 
a good farm. Joseph, Mrs. Richard Morton, Stephen, 
Mrs. Henry Weaver, James, Fanny, Robert and 
John are all gone. Mr. Hill was first a Whig and 
then a Republican. He was an earnest Bible 
student, and a deacon of the Baptist Church for 



524 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



many years, which office he retained until a year 
prior to his death, which occurred in 3861. Mrs. 
Hill always remained in the Church of England. 
She died November 12, 1856, and both are buried 
in the family buryiug-ground. 

James Hill, Jr., was born November 27, 1810, on 
the homestead where his youth was spent. He 
received the usual education of those early days, 
became a well-informed man, a good scholar, and 
taught school several terms. In 1830 he engaged 
in farming on the place where his son now lives, 
following this occupation very successfully all his 
life; he added sixty acres to the 100 which he 
owned, thus making a valuable farm. He was mar- 
ried April 14, 1831, to Charlotte, daughter of 
William Horner, of Fayette county, and the follow- 
ing children were born to them: Mrs. Cynthia 
Weaver (deceased); Mary Jane (deceased); Mar- 
garet Ann and William Horner. Mr. Hill was 
school director of his township for twelve or fifteen 
years, and also filled several different offices in the 
township. He did a great deal of business in set- 
tling estates. He was a Whig and Republican in 
politics, and his religious views leaned toward the 
Baptist Church. He died October 1, 1890. 

William Horner Hill, the only son of James and 
Charlotte (Horner) Hill, was born July 3, 1841, on the 
old farm, and has always remained there. He began 
his education in the common schools, but his health 
failing, was compelled to give up study when 
young; but he has been a great reader and is 
especially interested in works of history and sacred 
literature. He began business on the farm with 
his father, having an equal share in the profits, 
and has since been very successful, still retaining 
the old farm of 100 acres. Mr. Hill is a Repub- 
lican, but is inclined to independent views regard- 
ing men and political parties. He and a sister 
in' members of the Methodist Church. 




OBERT T. BARBOUR, a retired farmer 
of Hanover township, is a native of Jeffer- 
son township, this county, and a grandson 
of Abraham Barbour, who was the first 
member of this family to locate in Washing- 
ton county. 

Abraham Barbour was born of English parents 
in 1775, in New Jersey, and was there married to 
Jane Moore, a native of that State, whose parents 
were also of English extraction. Soon after their 
marriage this young couple, with Mr. Moore and 
family, started to seek a home in western Penn- 
sylvania. The party came together across the 
mountains in a large, six-horse wagon, which con- 
tained the passengers and their entire stock of 
worldly goods. When coming down hill, in the 
absence of a lock, the men would cut down a small 
tree, attaching it to the rear eud of the vehicle to 



drag on the ground and hold back the wagon. 
Other teams having adopted the same scheme, 
huge piles of such material were soon collected at 
the foot of the steep hills. On arriving at West- 
moreland county, Penn., William Moore and his 
family concluded to remain there, and made a lo- 
cation in that vicinity, but Abraham Barbour and 
his bride went farther west, locating in the terri- 
tory then called Cross Creek township, but which 
is now Jefferson township. Here he bought a 
farm by making a small cash payment, and in or- 
der to pay the amount of his indebtedness then 
began the traffic of packing salt over the mount- 
ains, bringirfg it from Winchester, Va. He would 
start with his two or three horses and so many 
sacks of feed, leaving the grain at various places 
along the road, and on the return trip would feed 
his horses at the same places. This business 
proved a profitable one, for he was soon freed from 
debt, and devoted the remainder of his life to 
•'tilling the virgin soil." In politics he was a 
Democrat, and was one of the highly-respected 
citizens of Jefferson township. He died in 1858, 
and his wife passed away in 1859. The children 
of this family were born as follows: Cornelius, a 
deceased farmer of Knox county, Ohio; a daughter, 
died in early youth; John, whose sketch follows. 
Jane, deceased wife of George Stewart, of Knox 
county, Ohio; Eleanor, widow of William Allen, 
is living in Knox county, Ohio, and Abraham (a 
farmer of Knox county, Ohio). 

John Barbour was born in 1800, in Jefferson 
township, having been reared to manhood on the 
home farm and educated in the rude schools of the 
period. In 1824 he was married to Elizabeth 
Moore, who was born in 1803 in Muskingum 
county, Ohio, a daughter of John Moore. The 
following children were born to the union of John 
and Elizabeth Barbour: John M., a farmer of 
Jefferson township; Cornelius, a farmer of Hanover 
township; Sarah J., Mrs. T. M. Patterson, of Pat- 
terson's Mills; Robert T., the subject of this sketch ; 
Abraham, a farmer of Jefferson township, and 
Fanny M. , a maiden lady of Jefferson township. 
The parents passed their first years of wedded life 
in an old log cabin in Jefferson township, this 
building being afterward supplanted by a comfort- 
able dwelling. He was a successful farmer, and 
in politics a lifelong Democrat, having held several 
offices in Jefferson township. His death occurred 
June 30, 1873, and February 19, 1892, his wife 
was laid by his side in Cross Creek cemetery. 

Robert T. Barbour was born January 14, 1829, 
in Jefferson township. He grew to manhood on 
the farm, and was educated in the rate schools. 
He married Mary E. West, April 27, 1853. She 
was born May 18, 1838, in Harrison county, Ohio. 
Her mother dying when Mary was an infant, she 
was reared to womanhood by an aunt, Eleanor 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



525 



Hill, of Paris, Penn. To this union the following 
children were born: Elizabeth E., widow of 
Stephen Peabody; Fanny M., living at home; 
Sarah J., residing with her parents; William M., 
agent and operator at Diusmore Station, P. C. C. 
& St. L. Ry. ; Maggie V., Leoua and Halbert, 
tin- latter three living at home. After his marriage 
Robert T. Barbour located in Hanover township, 
and soon afterward moved to McLean county, III, 
remaining there until 1859, when he returned to 
Hanover township, and has since been engaged in 
general farming and stock raising. In 1885 Mr. 
Barbour was seized with rheumatism, aud this un- 
welcome companion has clung to him so tenaciously 
that he has been obliged to almost retire from act- 
ive farm work. Mr. Barbour is gifted with a good 
memory. He is a pleasant and agreeable com- 
panion, a good neighbor and valued citizen. In 
politics he has been a lifelong Democrat 



Mary J. (living at home) and Sarah C. (a school 
teacher, and graduate of the Pennsylvania State 
Normal School). Mr. and Mrs. Scott have always 
resided on their present farm, where he follows 
general farming and stock raising, being an 
admirer of first-class stock. In politics he is a 
life-long Democrat, having held numerous offices 
in Hanover township. On October 18, 1891, he 
was called to mourn the loss of the wife of his 
youth, who was buried in the Presbyterian ceme- 
tery at Frankfort. She was a member of the 
Presbyterian Church, in which Mr. Scott is an 
active worker, having held the office of trustee for 
several years. 



JOHN F. SCOTT Was born Octohei -2 •".. lvv,. 
on the farm which is yet his home. He is a 
son of Arthur Scott, who was born about 
1794, in County Tyrone, Ireland. 

Arthur Scott married Martha Finton, who 
was bora in Ireland in 1789, and about 1824 fchey 
sailed for America. On landing at New York 
they proceeded to Philadelphia, thence to Wash- 
ington county, Penn., making a location on the 
headwaters of King's creek, in Hanover township. 
He rented property for some time, finally purchas- 
ing a tract of fifty acres, from the greater part of 
which the heavy timber had to be cleared away. 
He possessed but limited means, but finally 
managed to accumulate sufficient money to place 
him in comfortable circumstances. He was a 
member of the Democratic party. He died 
December 12, 1852, being preceded by his wife 
October 29, 1852. They are buried in the Pres- 
byterian cemetery at Frankfort, both having been 
members of that denomination. They were the 
pai iiits of the following children: John F., 
Martha J. (Mrs. Henry Breen, of New Cumber- 
land, W. Va.), Letitia (wife of Jesse Sleutz, of 
Jefferson county, Ohio), Eliza (unmarried, de- 
ceased November 4, 1852, at the age of seventeen 
years), aud Robert (deceased October 2<>, 1852, 
aged fifteen years). All the deceased members of 
the above. family passed away within five weeks of 
each other. 

John F. Scott was born on the old farm, 
attended the rude schools of the period, aud con- 
tinued work on the farm until some time after the 
death of his parents. On April 25, 1857, he 
married Mary Ann Lipsey, who, born in 1821, in 
Ireland, came to this country with her parents in 
1823. To this union three children were born, 
viz.: William McF. (deceased when two years old), 



|| AMES WARD, an expert blacksmith, of Cal- 
ifornia, is a son of William Ward, who was 
v\\ born near Bel Air, Harford Co., Md. In 
^^ early manhood he learned the blacksmith's 
trade, and then came to Washington county, 
Penn., locating in Fallowfield township, aud there 
followed farming in connection with his trade. 
Prior to locating in Pennsylvania, William Ward 
had been a slaveholder, hut liberated them after 
leaving Maryland. He was married to Pleasant, 
daughter of Henry Speers, of Fallowfield township, 
and their children were Nancy, Solomon, Wilson, 
Rebecca, James, Elizabeth, Mary Jane, Amanda, 
William and Melissa. The father was a Whig and 
Republican in politics, and in religion was promi- 
nently 7 identified with the M. E. Church, having 
served for some time as a local preacher. 

James Ward was born March 16, lS2f>, in Fal- 
lowfield township, and received his early education 
in the subscription schools. When he was twenty 
years of age he opened a blacksmith shop at Twi- 
light, and six months afterward moved to Green- 
field, remaining there until 1886, then came to 
California. On June 15, 1852, he married Sarah, 
daughter of Solomon Fry, aud she has borne him 
three children, namely: Addison, Alberta (wife of 
Dr. Letherman) and Laura. Although Mr. Ward 
had an inclination for the carpenter's trade, circum- 
stances compelled him to continue in the black- 
smith's business, and he was obliged to borrow the 
money with which to purchase his first set of tools. 
He became an expert in his trade. Originally a 
Whig, he has been, since the organization of the 
Republican party, an active worker in its ranks. 
He and family are members of the M. E. Church. 



w 



^ILLIAM RODGERS, a prominent dairy- 
man and leading agriculturist of Fallow- 
field township, is a native of the North 
of Ireland, born in 1828, in County Done- 
gal. In 1833 his parents, Samuel and Margaret 
(Cook) Rodgers, also natives of County Donegal, 



526 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



embarked with their family for America, and after 
a voyage of seven weeks lauded in the New World. 
Proceeding at once to Pennsylvania, they made a 
permanent home in Clarion county, where the 
father followed agricultural pursuits during the 
remainder of his busy life. He died in 1852, his 
widow in 1860. Their children were as follows: 
Elizabeth (wife of Matthew Banks, of Butler 
county, Penn.), deceased in 1889; Susanna (widow 
of George Harwood, who died in 1891), living in 
Pittsburgh, Penn. ; Jane (widow of Robert Banks), 
living in Butler county, Penn. ; Sally (wife of 
William McElhaney, of Armstrong, Penn.), de- 
ceased in 1891; Margaret, married to Mr. Robert 
Gailey, of West Belle Vernon, Penn. ; Rebecca, 
widow of Samuel Rodgers, of Armstrong county, 
Penn.; Mary (wife of George M. McKinney), de- 
ceased in 1886, and William, subject of sketch. 

William Rodgers, as will be seen, was five years 
old when he came with his parents to the United 
States, aud to Pennsylvania. He received his 
education at the common school, and in the 
academies of Clarion and Butler counties, after 
which he commenced fanning in Clarion county. 
In 1863 he removed from there to Fallowfield 
township, Washington county, where he has since 
resided. In 1859 William Rodgers was united in 
marriage with Miss S. E. Sphar, daughter of John 
and Lucy Ann (Scott) Sphar, of Allen township, 
this county, and ten children have been born to 
them, as follows: Myron K.. a graduate of Wash- 
ington and Jefferson College, civil engineer-in- 
chief of the "Mountain Consolidated Company, " 
in Butte City, Mont., where he has lived since 
18S6 (in 1S',)2 he married Lucy Joiner); Anna M.. 
a graduate of Washington Female Seminary, 
married to Dwight Purness, U. S. consular agent 
for the State of Guanajuato, Mexico, and dealer 
in high-grade ores, living in the city of Guana- 
juato; John, a law student, at present residing in 
Chicago; Samuel Clark, a graduate of Ohio 
Weslteyan University, now secretary and treasurer 
of '"The Furness & Lewis Co.," in Guanajuato, 
Mexico; William G. , attending Washington and 
Jefferson College; Lillie Gertrude, who attended 
Ohio Wesleyan University, and is married to Don 
E. King, a lawyer in Washington C. H., West Va., 
and Wesley P., Rosetta B., Joseph Henry and 
Adeline Patti, all four yet under the parental 
roof. The parents, sensible of the weighty 
responsibility involved in rearing a large family, 
and justly appreciatingthe benefits resulting from a 
thorough education — to the end of educing and 
cultivating what is best and noblest in the young 
mind — have given their elder children more than 
an average academical and collegiate training, 
while the younger members have before them 
similar advantages and blessings. Mr. Rodgers 
has all his life taken an active interest in educa- 



tional matters, and is an especial enthusiast in the 
common-school system of the present day. When 
a young man he was the promoter of an academy 
in Franklin, Penn., and he taught school for some 
three years with marked success. Politically he 
votes the Republican ticket, and he and his wife 
and all their children are members and liberal 
supporters of the M. E. Church. 



I ISAAC LEADBETER. The life of this gen- 
tleman is a history in itself, illustrative of what 
| can be attained by indomitable perseverance, 
a stout heart and a willing pair of hands. He 
is a sou of the rugged and romantic land of the 
Cymri, having been born in Blaenavon, Mon- 
mouthshire, South Wales, in 1828. In 1840. then 
a lad of twelve summers, he came with a brother- 
in-law and family to America, the passage across 
the Atlantic being made in an American sailing ves- 
sel. Landing in Alexandria, Va., after a voyage 
of seven weeks and two days, the party proceeded 
to Washington, D. C, thence by train to Balti- 
more, from which city they traveled by canal to a 
place called Trout Run, on the Susquehanna, and 
from thereby stage some twenty-five miles through 
the wilderness to a small town in Tioga county, 
Penn., called Blossburg, where they resided three 
years. At the end of that time they retraced their 
steps by the same route to Trout Run, and from 
there journeyed to Pittsburgh by canal. The canal 
boat which conveyed them was built in three sec- 
tions, which were taken apart when they reached 
the Alleghanies, being brought separate over the 
mountains — five inclines up and five inclines down, 
into the canal again, and then once more hitched- 
together. They crossed the Allegheny river in 
the aqueduct, and lauded at Bayardstown, near 
where the Union depot now stands. There they 
took boat to Young's Landing, on the Mononga- 
hela, two miles below Greenfield, now called Coal 
Centre. 

At the time of the California "gold fever'" Mr. 
Leadbeter, in company with six others, set out for 
the new Eldorado in the spring of 1850, taking 
the overland route, and arriving in Hangtown six 
months after the day of their starting, manv 
hardships being endured on the journey. After 
two years' sojourn in the mines, he returned home 
via the Isthmus of Panama, and in 1856 he re- 
visited California, traveling by the Nicaragua 
route, and again remained in the "gold diggins" 
two years. In L863 the Smith & Co.- Coal Com- 
pany was organized, the firm being composed of 
Isaac Leadbeter, L.' E. Smith and Edward Blinco, 
which was dissolved on tin- death of Mr. Smith in 
the year 1873. In 1871 a new company came into 
existence, styled the I. Leadbeter Company, which 
did business until 1878, and in the following yeai 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



529 



our subject and family moved to Cherokee county. 
Kans., but the fascination of his early manhood 
home still haunted him, and impelled him in 1880 
to once more become a citizen of the Keystone 
State. Up to the year 1880, when he retired from 
active life, Mr. Leadbeter's occupation was for the 
most part mining and shipping coal. He began 
life with a coal pick in his hand, and has felt the 
cutting edge of poverty's lance; but by industry 
and perseverance, coupled with sound judgment 
and solid business principles, he succeeded in con- 
quering every opposition, and today he ranks 
with the most prosperous men in the land. 

In June, 1849, our subject was united in mar- 
riage with Isabel, daughter of Robert and Mar- 
garet Smiley, and six children have been born to 
them — one son and five daughters, viz. : Sarah 
Crow, wife of John Crow; Nancy, wife of John 
Young; Robert Leonard, a general merchant of 
Coal Centre, married to Cora Hicks; Mary Eliza. 
wife of Jacob Hormell; Harriet Malinda, wife of 
A. E. Freeman, and Cora Belle, living at home 
with her parents. The parents have given their 
children excellent school advantages, and all have 
been brought up to a Christian life. Mr. Lead- 
beter's home since 1855 has been in Coal Centre, 
with the exception of two years he and his family 
lived in Kansas (as already related), from which 
place he and the family moved to their present 
residence in 1880. In 1858 Mr. Leadbeter united 
with Pike Run Lodge, No. 491, I. O. O. F., of 
California, and was one of the organizers and 
charter members of Vesta Lodge, No. 096, Coal 
Centre. He has proven a most zealous and active 
member, and has passed all the Chairs. Mr. 
Leadbeter has extensive real-estateinterests in the 
boroughs of California, Granville and Coal Centre. 
In church affairs he has ever been especially 
prominent. From the days of his early youth he 
has been identified with the Methodist Episcopal 
denomination, and has served in every official 
capacity, being at the present time district stew- 
ard. In the Sunday-school he is recognized as a 
leader, and when the Sabbath day comes Mr. 
Leadbeter appears in armor, at his post. 

It is but fair to add that in business circles few 
in his line of trade are better known throughout 
the Ohio and Mississippi Valleys than Isaac Lead- 
beter, whose name is the synonym for honor and 
integrity. As a man he is genial as the sunshine, 
generous to a fault, respected and beloved by all. 



COTT FAMILY. The sons and daughters 
of Old Erin have ever been among the first 
to volunteer in any enterprise requiring 
pluck, fortitude and gallant heroism. It is 
therefore notsurprisiug, that, in ascertaining tbena- 
tionality of our forefathers, so many of those who first 



braved the dangers and privations of pioneer life 
have been natives of the fair Emerald Isle, small 
in area, but mighty in the strength of a heroic 
race. One of their poets aptly expresses the sen- 
timents of the true Irishman the world over, in the 
lines: 

When Erin first rose from the dark swelling flood, 

(Jmi blessed tin- green island, He saw it was good. 
Tin- Emerald of Europe, it sparkled, it shone, 
In the ring of this world the m ■ • ~ t precious stone. 
Arm of Erin prove strong; hut he gentle as brave, 
Ami uplifted to strike, -till be ready t" save. 
Xm-one feeling of vengeance presume t" defile, 
The cans.' hi tin- men of tin' Emerald Isle. 

WILLIAM SCOTT, the great-great-great-great - 
grandfather of the present generation: 

Should auld (relations) be forgol 
And never brought to mind; 
Should auld (relations) be forgot, 

And days of auld lang syne. 

William Scott, the progenitor of the family with 
which this genealogy has to deal (as taken from a 
late history), was born in Scotland in the latter 
part of the seventeenth century, the exact date be- 
ing not known. On account of his loyalty to the 
principles of the "Church of Scotland," and bitter 
opposition to popery, he, with many other families 
of Covenanter sympathies, in order to enjoy peace 
and safety, was compelled to leave his native land 
and find a home elsewhere. He accordingly went 
to the North of Ireland, County Derry. There he 
laid out a deer park and salmon fishery, as he was 
a man of considerable wealth ( judged by the 
standard of those days, not of the present). But 
few details of his life have come down to us, nor 
do we know when he died, and of his family we 
have no account, except of one son, Joseph. 

Joseph Scott, son of William Scott, was born in 
County Derry, Ireland, in the early part of the 
eighteenth century. His children (so far as has 
been ascertained) were one daughter and five 
sons, viz.: Mary, William, Zaccheus, Nathan, 
Samuel and James. He died in Ireland, after 
which his children emigrated to America, first 
locating in Lancaster cortnty, Penn., some of them 
afterward moving to Washington (now Allegln n\ l 
county, same State. William (the eldest son) was 
killed in one of the Indian wars; Zaccheus settled 
with his brother James, on a farm in Elizabeth 
township, Allegheny Co., Penn., and all trace of 
him has been lost; Nathan located in New Jersey, 
and nothing further has been heard of him except 
that he had one son; James, the youngest son of 
Joseph Scott, Sr. , when became to western Penn- 
sylvania settled in what is known as the "Forks 
of the Yough " settlement, now Elizabeth town- 
ship, Allegheny Co., Penn. This farm he after- 
ward patented, November 9, 1789; part of this 
farm is now owned by his grandson, Zaccheus 
Scott. James Scott had eight children, and three 



530 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



•of the sons were in the war of 1812, two of them 
as captains, one being promoted to colonel (but 
little further is known of the family connection). 

Mary (the eldest child and only daughter of 
Joseph Scott, Sr. ) was married near the year 1760, 
to James Young, of Lancaster county, Penn. Mr. 
Young lived on the main road from Philadelphia 
to Lancaster, and kept an inn at which the wagon- 
ers stopped on their route. Mr. Young died prior 
to the year 1780, his wife afterward married John 
Morgan, and with her eight children came to west- 
ern Pennsylvania in 1780, and located in what is 
now Robinson township, Allegheny Co., Penn., 
near where the fort (afterward known as the 
" Cowan Fort") was built. She was known to the 
succeeding generation as Grandmother Morgan, 
and her descendants as far as known at this writ- 
ing are 324. 

Samuel Scott (son of Joseph Scott, Sr. ) was 
born in County Derry, Ireland, in 1751, and in 
youth came to this country, first locating in Lan- 
caster county, Penn. He attended a communion 
of the Reformed Presbyterian Church at that 
place, was married about the year 1775, to Eliza- 
beth Wilson, a sister of Rev. J. R. Wilson, of the 
same church, and moved to western Pennsylvania, 
settling on a farm on Mingo creek, Washington 
Co , Penn. He bought a team of horses in Lan- 
caster county, a Conestoga wagon and farm imple- 
ments, and drove through by way of Bedford 
Springs to the above-named place. There he re- 
mained until about the year 1795, when he moved 
to Campbell's run, Washington county (now in 
Robinson township, Allegheny Co., Penn.), was one 
of the pioneers of the settlement, and helped to build 
the Cowan fort, or blockhouse, in which the set- 
tlers would often leave their wives and children for 
safety from the Indians. He rented a farm of 331 
acres from John Bail, which he afterward bought, 
in November, 1700, the same for £516 specie, the 
deed thereof being recorded March 1, 1800. Mr. 
Scott purchased on May 4, 1805, a farm in Wash- 
ington county on the headwaters of Miller's run, 
Mt. Pleasant township, containing 3094- acres, for 
the sum of $2,474 (which farm he afterward willed 
to his sons John and Joseph), same being the east- 
ern part of the land granted to Gen. George Wash- 
ington, owned at that time by Alexander Addison. 
In the fall of 1805, a communion service was held 
at the home of Samuel Scott, on Campbell's run, 
about fifty persons having gathered, most of them 
coining from a distance. The dwelling was but a 
log cabin, and consequently the barn floor was 
covered with straw, over which was spread wagon 
covers and blankets. Here the guests slept, Mr. 
Scott lodging with the company, feeding the horses 
and people. Thursday was kept as a fast day; 
Friday all the able-bodied men went to work hewing 
and hauling logs to erect a communion table, seats 



and a tent, so that the minister could address the 
audience, and services were held Saturday after- 
noon, Sabbath and Monday morning, after which 
the worshipers returned to their homes. 

In 1815 Mr. Scott went on a chase on horseback 
to the land office at Canton or Mansfield, Ohio, be- 
ing first of the numerous competitors, and entered 
a section of land (640 acres); he also, at anotherplace 
entered a half section — in all 960 acres. It was a 
perilous journey at that time, on account of the 
Indians. He died in 1819, aged sixty-eight years, 
owning at the time about 1,600 acres of land. 
His wife died in 1827, aged seventy-eight years, 
and they are buried in the cemetery at Union (F. 
P.) church, in Robinson township, Allegheny 
county. They were active and influential members 
of the Reformed Presbyterian Church, in which 
he was a ruling elder for many years. They 
raised a family of nine children, all of whom grew 
to maturity and reared families. Their names are 
as follows: John. Margaret, Elizabeth, William, 
Mary, Joseph, Samuel, Nancy and James. His 
descendants at this writing, as far as known, are 619 
in number. Part of the farm or homestead is still 
owned by Scott connection. The farm on Miller's 
run he left by will to his two sons, John and Joseph 
— the north end, 159J acres to John, and his grand- 
children still own sixty-five acres of it, and goes by 
the name of the Scott heirs. The south end, 150 
acres, he left to his son Joseph, and his son James 
owns and lives on it. Each of the farms have 
three producing oil wells, some of them, at this 
writing, producing at the rate of seventy-five bar- 
rels per hour. 

Joseph Scott, son of Samuel, was born in 1786, 
in Allegheny county, Penn., becoming inured 
from boyhood to the privations and hardships of 
the frontier settlements. In 1808 he was married 
to Margaret McCurdy, of Allegheny county, after- 
ward settling in Mt. Pleasant township, this county, 
on the farm afterward left him by his father Sam- 
uel. She bore him eight children, one of whom, 
Joseph L. (the only one living), is married and 
resides in Cecil township. The mother died June 
4, 1827, and in 1829 the father was united in mar- 
riage with Sarah Douglas, who was born in \1U~i, 
in Cecil township, this county; she was a daughter, 
of Patrick Douglas, a native of Scotland, who 
came with his parents to America when but nine 
years of age, locating in eastern Pennsylvania, and 
afterward settling in Cecil township, where he 
died in his eighty-ninth year. The mother passed 
away when eighty-eight years old. Joseph and 
Sarah (Douglas) Scott began married life on his 
farm (as above mentioned) on Miller's run in Mt. 
Pleasant township (now occupied by their son 
James), upon which he erected a good brick resi- 
dence in 1834. Their children were as follows: 
Nancy (deceased in infancy), Margaret S. (widow 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



531 



of James K. Robb, of Jackson county, Kans., who 
was reared in this county but died in Ohio), Nancy 
(deceased in 1887), Robert D. (of whom a sketch 
follows), James (of whom special mention is made 
further on) and John (living in Mt. Pleasant town- 
ship, married to Lizzie Bolton). The father was 
a soldier in the war of 1812, and an influential 
citizen, having assisted in settling several estates. 
He was an active member of the Reformed Pres- 
byterian Church, of which he was ruling elder sev- 
eral years. He died .May 14, 1861, and August 2, 
1882, his wife was laid beside him. 

Robert D. Scott, eldest son of Joseph and Sa- 
rah (Douglas) Scott, was born January 16, 1834, 
on the old home place in Mt. Pleasant township, 
where his early education was received. On May 
25, 1870, he selected a life companion in the person 
of Mattie R., daughter of William Thompson. 
The father was born in Mt. Pleasant township, 
and was married to Eliza Jane Fleming, a native 
of the same place. In 1874 they moved to Alle- 
Allegheny county, Penn. , where he passed away in 
April, 1882. Mrs. Thompson is yet living in that 
county, and is the mother of twelve children, viz.: 
Mary (deceased in her twenty-second year). Mattie 
R. (Mrs. Robert D. Scott), Sarah Ann (wife of 
Alexander May, of Cecil township), Eliza Jane 
( Mrs. C. R. Potter, of McDonald, Penn.), Ebenezer 
(at home), Maria (residing with her mother), Alice 
(Mrs. Samuel Thompson, of Canonsburg, Penn.), 
Emma (wife of James Riddile, of Allegheny 
county, Penn.), William Harvey Smith (living in 
Manstield, Penn.), two deceased in infancy, and 
Joseph (living in Sioux City, Iowa). Since their 
marriage Robert D. and Mattie R. (Thompson) 
Scott have resided on the farm in Cecil township, 
containing 119^ acres of well-improved land, upon 
which he has erected good buildings. Four 
children have blessed this union: John Herbert, 
Sarah Elizabeth, one deceased in infancy, and 
Mary (who died at the age of seven years and six 
months). Mr. and Mrs. Scott and their two 
children are members of the Reformed Presby- 
terian Church, of which he is an elder, and he has 
also served about thirty-five years as treasurer. 

James Scott (second son of Joseph and Sarah 
(Douglas) Scott) was born January 1, 1836, on the 
home farm in Mt. Pleasant township, this county, 
receiving his education in the district schools of 
the neighborhood. In 1867 he was united in 
marriage with Eliza Thompson, a native of Carroll 
county, Ohio, daughter of Hance and Eliza (Hen- 
derson) Thompson. The parents were born in 
Ireland, emigrating to America in 1830. In 1834 
they moved to a farm in Carroll county, Ohio, 
thence to Harrison county, Ohio, where he died 
February 9, 1892, having been preceded in 1863 
by his wife. She was the mother of the following 
children: Sarah (deceased in Carroll county, Ohio, 



at the age of ten years), Margaret (deceased in 
Pittsburgh, Penn.), George (deceased in childhood), 
Eliza (wife of James Scott), George (deceased in 
his eighteenth year), Jane (living in Harrison 
county, Ohio), Sarah (wife of Joseph Thompson, 
Carroll county, Ohio) and W. P. (living in 
Carroll county, Ohio). James and Eliza (Thomp- 
son) Scott lived on a farm adjoining their present 
home until 1880, when they removed to the place 
of 150 acres which they now occupy. The tract 
has been in the family name since 1805, being 
originally a part of the George Washington survey. 
It also contains a producing oil well, which yields 
from seventy-five to eighty barrels of oil per da\ 
Mr. and Mrs. Scott are members of the Reformed 
Presbyterian Church, of which he is ruling elder. 
They have four children, namely: Lizzie H., Sadie 
B. , Ida M. and Jennie A. 



If SAAC J. DEEDS is a worthy descendant of a 
well-known pioneer family. He is a son of 
Isaac Deeds and a grandson of Andrew Deeds. 
Andrew Deeds was born Jauuary 1, 1760, in 
eastern Pennsylvania, and came to Washington 
county, settling on the Dutch fork of Buffalo creek, 
in Donegal township, about two and three-quarters 
miles north of Coon Island. He was of German 
descent, and among the first pioneers of this count v. 
Andrew Deeds was married to Mary Miller, who 
was born June 20, 1760, in eastern Pennsylvania, 
a daughter of Jacob Miller, coming with her parents 
to Donegal township, this county. 

Her father, Jacob Miller, was of German birth, 
and, immigrating with his wife to America, was 
among the early settlers on Dutch fork of Buffalo 
creek. Jacob Miller and a neighbor, John Hupp, 
were both killed on Easter Sunday, 1782. They 
started together to visit a friend, not knowing that 
a party of Indians had raided in, as was their cus- 
tom in the springtime and autumn. Miller and 
Hupp had nearly arrived at their friend's house, 
when suddenly they were met by the savage red- 
skins in the path that led through the lonely and 
uncultivated forest, and, mid the yells and savage 
shrieks of the painted Indians, they were killed 
and scalped. Soon the news came to the few set- 
tlers that the Indians were making a raid among 
them, and they all left their homes and made a 
speedy effort to seek safety in the Miller block- 
house. Soon the few settlers who had succeeded 
in gaining the blockhouse were surrounded by a 
party of about seventy Shawanese Indians, and al- 
most without any ammunition, and totally without 
provisions to eat. The wives of Miller and Hupp 
were among those who escaped to the fort, and 
they there prepared ammunition to keep off the 
Indians. At this moment the latter, leaping from 
their concealment, appeared in every direction 



532 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



around the blockhouse, and a hot and continuous 
firing commenced. The female band, in despair 
and anguish, were forced to the conclusion that the 
blockhouse would now soon be taken by storm, or 
envelop them in its flames; and, with no hope of a 
successful resistance, were about to give up. In 
this crisis of terrible emergency, but with the con- 
soling language of hope, and with courage suffi- 
ciently unfaltering for the dire emergency, Provi- 
dence panoplied those female heroines with daring 
courage. And then, nerving their arms and steel- 
ing their hearts to the severe duties of the moment, 
they, snatching up their rifles, tired at the ap- 
proaching savages, and then ran from porthole to 
porthole, protruding the muzzles in different direc- 
tions to convey the idea of a great force in the 
house, at each presentation causing the savages to 
cower behind trees or other objects for protection. 
This executed strategy of these pioneer heroines 
without doubt saved the few inmates from an im- 
mediate and horrible death. The Indians, evident- 
ly filled with chagrin and disappointment, skulked 
about the blockhouse till nightfall, and then a few 
of them left during the night, bearing away with 
them the scalps of Miller and Hupp. The loss of 
these two men to the neighborhood was severely 
felt at a time when men were so much needed; but 
all hearts in that blockhouse were overflowing with 
thankfulness and gratitude to a kind and merciful 
Preserver for vouchsafing to them His. aid and pro- 
tection when their great and terror-tilling peril 
was impending, and saving them from the ruthless 
hands of the merciless and bloodthirsty savages. 

With sad and anxious hearts the wives of Miller 
and Hupp lived in hopes that their loving hus- 
bands would soon arrive in safety at the block- 
house, not knowing then that they were massacred 
by the savage Indians; so the lifeless bodies of 
Miller and Hupp remained for several days where 
they had been left by the Indians. By and by 
some friends and a few settlers, concluding it was 
safe to leave the fort, with cautious steps and 
armed with a few guns, set out in search of 
Miller and Hupp, whose bodies they found less 
than one-half mile north of the fort, on a ridge in 
a small path that led through the dense forest. 
(The field is now owned by Clint Miller). They 
brought the lifeless bodies to the Miller blockhouse, 
and prepared them for burial. They were in- 
terred in one grave, a few yards from the block- 
house, and placed side by side, each body being 
wrapped in a sheet, without any coffin, and some 
rude puncheons were placed around them in their 
grave. There was no time for the mourners to pre- 
pare a box or coffin for their departed friends, as 
they did not know how soon the Indians might sur- 
round them, and kill or take them all prisoners. 
And in that ancient and lonely graveyard to-day 
are lying, clustered around the graves of these two 



pioneers, the remains of Jacob Klow, Jacob Miller, 
Jr., Fredrick Miller, Ann Hupp and her daughter 
Margaret Titus, and other friends. Fredrick and 
Gapt. Jacob were sons of the unfortunate Jacob 
Miller, Sr. Fredrick died on March 27, 1814, 
aged forty-three years, and Capt. Jacob Miller died 
August 2(1, 1830, aged sixty-eight years. The 
graveyard where those heroes are buried is situ- 
ated a few yards from Clint Miller's residence, in 
a ravine near the waters of Little Buffalo creek. 
This is one illustrative incident of pioneer life. 

Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Deeds had the following 
family of children: Adam, Jacob, John, Isaac, 
Catherine and Mary. After his marriage Mr. 
Deeds located on a farm adjoining the " Old Miller 
blockhouse tract of land." He passed the remain- 
der of his life on the farm, dying December 5, 
1831, and was followed by his wife October 15, 
1842. He was an industrious man, and accumu- 
lated a considerable property. 

Isaac Deeds, the youngest son of Andrew Deeds, 
was born August 12, 1800, on the farm in Donegal 
township, passing his younger days in assisting his 
father, and attending the subscription schools. He 
remained at liome until after the death of his 
father, and took care of his mother. On Novem- 
ber 15, 1832, he was united in marriage with 
Sarah Rodgers, who was born September 8, 1809, 
daughter of Francis and Elizabeth (Hupp) Rodg- 
ers, the latter being the daughter of John Hupp. 
They had two children, Belle and Isaac J. Mr. 
Deeds passed the first years of married life on his 
father's farm, devoting his time to agriculture, and 
dealing extensively in stock. He afterward pur- 
chased and moved upon the "Abe Miller " tract of 
land, adjoining the old Deeds farm. Mr. Deeds 
was a very successful, sagacious business man, and 
eventually became one of the largest landholders 
in Donegal township. Politically, he was original- 
ly a Whig, afterward becoming a Republican. He 
died September 20, 1886, having been preceded by 
his wife May 12, 1842. Their two children, Isaac 
J. and Belle, are living on the home farm. Is;iae 
J. is an active member of the Republican party. 



JAMES S. BUCHANAN. Of the many coun- 
I tries represented in America, none have be- 
i queathed to the New World a better or more 
inteligent class than has " bonnie Scotland." 
She has given us the noblest and best blood 
of a nation eminent in the history of the world as 
patriots, citizens and statesmen. James Buchanan, 
grandfather of subject, was born in Scotland, and 
in early manhood came to America, setling on a 
farm in Chartiers township, Washington Co., 
Penn., where he died many years ago. He and 
his wife were members of the Seceder Church. 
Thomas Buchanan, father of our subject, was 




J-A«. _. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



535 



born in 1800, in Chartiers township, this county, 
and in 1824 was united in marriage with Jane 
Smiley, who was born in 1804, in Cross Creek 
township, this county. After their marriage the 
young people settled on the farm now owned by 
their son James S., and followed farming and 
wool growing. He was extensively engaged in 
raising sheep, making a large profit from the busi- 
ness. In politics he opposed slavery, voted the 
Democratic ticket, and served the county as super- 
visor of the poor. Mr. and Mrs. Buchanan were 
formerly members of the Seceder (now U. P. )Church 
at Hickory, afterward uniting with the North Buf- 
alo U. P. Church. He died May 7, 1871, followed 
by his widow in March, 1885. They were the 
parents of the following children: Nancy Jane 
(deceased in 1883), Mary Ann (who married Rev. 
Samuel Alexander, of Abilene, Kane., and died in 
1862), Sarah Martha (who married Rev. Josiah 
Alexander, of Belmont, Ohio, and died in 1854, 
while visiting her parents), Hester (Mrs. Robert 
Flanigan, of Mt. Pleasant township), Elizabeth E. 
(wife of J. D. Smith, in Lawrence county, Penn.), 
Rebecca Margaret (deceased in 1854), James S. 
(our subject), Harriet (deceased in 1853), Maria 
Miller (Mrs. James Herriot, living in Lawrence, 
Kans.), Caroline (deceased in youth) and Ella S. 
(wife of William Smith, of Douglas county, Kans.). 
James S. Buchanan was born April 1, 1838, on 
the present home farm in Mt. Pleasant township, 
receiving his elementary education in the district 
schools. He then took a course at Duff's Com- 
mercial College, graduating with the class of '58. 
After leaving school he devoted himself to agricult- 
ural pursuits. In 1878 he was one of the first to 
introduce Holstein cattle into Washington county, 
since which time he has made a specialty of rais- 
ing that breed, also the Dorset horned and Merino 
sheep. (H. S. Buchanan, the son, in company 
with J. B. Henderson, imported the first lot of 
Dorset horned sheep into Washington county, and 
it is believed the first importation ever made of 
sheep direct to said county). In 1861 Mr. Bu- 
chanan was united in marriage with Martha L. Mc- 
Carrel. Her grandfather, Lodowyck McCarrel, 
was born in Ireland about the close of the last 
century, came to Washington county and married 
Martha Leman. They settled in Mt. Pleasant 
township, and reared a family. Andrew McCarrel, 
father of Mrs. Buchanan, was born in Mt. Pleasant 
township, and in early life was married to Eliza- 
beth, daughter of William Wilson, pastor of the 
U. P. Church at Clinton, Penn. After their mar- 
riage they settled on a farm in Mt. Pleasant town- 
ship, where Mr. McCarrel died December 29, 1883, 
having been preceded by his wife in July, 1874. 
They were members of the U. P. Church at Hickory, 
afterward uniting with the Chartiers Cross Roads 
Church. James S. Buchanan and his wife began 



wedded life on the home farm, where they have 
continued to remain. Three children have been 
born to their union, viz. : Beulah W. (wife of Dr. 
C. L. Campbell, Hickory), Herbert S. (married in 
1889 to Lena, daughter of J. R. Lyle, of Mt. Pleas- 
ant township) and Lulu F. married November 30, 
1892, to J. B. Henderson, of Washington, Penn.). 
Mr. Buchanan's farm contains 400 acres of well-cul- 
tivated land. In politics he is a Democrat, and is 
much interested in the recent organization of 
farmers for mutual protection and co-operation. He 
is now serving his twenty-second year as justice 
of the peace, having entered on his fifth term of 
five years each. He was a strong candidate for 
the State Legislature in 1886, and has taken an act- 
ive interest in securing railroads in the commu- 
nity. Mr. and Mrs. Buchanan are members of the 
Presbyterian Church at Mt. Prospect. 

Squire Buchanan was the first man to take an 
interest in the leasing of land in his part of the 
county for oil and gas, and was one of the first 
to call a meeting of the citizens of Mt. Pleasant 
township; he took an active part in the leasing 
of 10,000 acres, spending one winter. The first gas 
well was found on a farm adjoining Mr. Buchanan's, 
and this led to drilling for gas in Washington 
county, resulting in oil. Mr. Buchanan has set- 
tled many estates, and in many instances acted as 
administrator. His home is about nine miles from 
Washington borough, and about two and a half 
miles from Hickory. 



and 



AMUEL CONNER, a member of one of the 
early families of Washington county, Penn., 
is the eldest son of John Conner, a son of 
Samuel Conner. The grandfather was born 
reared in Maryland, and there married to 
Sarah Graham. They came to this county many 
years ago, first settling in Burgettstown, where he 
followed the wheelwright's trade, and afterward 
moving to Mt. Pleasant township. His wife died 
in 1821, and he followed her prior to 1848. 

John Conner was born February 18, 1810, in 
Mt. Pleasant township, this county, where he 
passed his boyhood. In early life he was married 
to Margaret Edgar, a native of Cecil township, 
this county. She was a daughter of Adam Edgar, 
a native of Ireland, who came to America in 1786. 
He married Sarah Jamison, who was born and 
reared in Bucks county, Penn., and they had eleven 
children, five sons and six daughters, all now de- 
ceased but Thomas, who lives in Boone county, 
Iowa. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Conner 
settled in Mt. Pleasant township, thence moving 
to the farm in Cecil township, now owned by W. 
J. Kelso. In 1844 John Conner bought 186 
acres of the Donald farm in Cecil township, upon 
which they made their permanent home. Mrs. 



536 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Conner died February 14, 1890. They were the 
parents of six children, as follows: One that 
died in infancy, Samuel, Adam (who died May 11, 
1861), Sarah Jane, Abigail (deceased October 31, 
1885) and John (living in Pittsburgh, Penn.). 
The father is yet living, and has entered his 
eighty-third year. He was a member of the U. 
P. Church at Squeers Springs, with which his wife 
was also connected, and they afterward trans- 
ferred their membership to the church in Canons- 
burg. 

Samuel Conner was born in 1840 on the home 
place in Cecil township, this county, and received 
his education in the schools of the home district. 
He has always resided in the vicinity of his birth- 
place, and does a general farming and dairy busi- 
ness. In politics he votes with the Democratic 
party, and in religious faith he is a member of the 
U. P. Church. 



*J 



Mi RS. JANE (LEE) KERR, a popular and 
intelligent lady of Cross Creek township, 
is a granddaughter of Hugh Lee, who was 
* born in Ireland, and was there married to 
Mary Elliott. They immigrated to Amer- 
ica in 1790, settling on the farm in Cross Creek 
township, Washington Co., Penn., now occupied by 
a great-grandson, W. C. Lee. Six children were 
born to this couple: James, William, Hugh, Robert, 
Ann and Ellen. Of these, Hugh Lee was born in 
1773, in County Donegal, Ireland, and came with 
his father to Washington county. He was reared 
to agricultural pursuits, which he followed through 
life. He was united in marriage with Miss Han- 
nah Orr, who was born in 1787, and to their union 
came children as follows: Mary, William, John, 
Margaret, an infant unnamed, Hugh, Hannah A. , 
and Jane (Mrs. I. H. Kerr). The father was a 
very influential citizen, and used all the means in 
his power to promote the interests of others. In 
religions faith he was a member of the Cross Creek 
Presbyterian Church, and in 1818 was elected an 
elder for life. His death occurred in 1837, in 
Claysville, while he was attending the Presbytery. 

Jane Lee was born March 7, 1827, on the old 
homestead, and in her early youth attended the 
common schools of the vicinity. On September 8, 
1847, she was united in marriage with Isaac 
Hampton Kerr, a native of New Jersey, and son of 
Aaron and Sarah (Peppard) Kerr. 

Aaron Kerr was born June 4, 1776, in Maryland, 
and was married to Sarah Peppard (at the time 
living near Hackettstown, Md. ), daughter of the 
late Rev. Francis Peppard, of that place. Aaron 
Kerr was a member of the Presbyterian Church 
from early manhood, and had been elected four 
times as ruling elder, first time in Hackettstown 
(Md.) Church, when bnt twenty-one years of age. 



After their marriage Aaron and Sarah Kerr settled 
on Pigeon creek, this county, afterward moving to 
Washington borough, where he was engaged in 
mercantile business; he was also a ruling elder in 
the church there. In 1S31 he moved to Mouonga- 
hela City, and there carried on commercial busi- 
ness until 1845, when he came to Cross Creek 
village, still engaging in mercantile pursuits. In 
politics he was a Whig, and from 1824 to 1828 
was a member of the Pennsylvania Legislature. 
He served as a member of the constitutional con- 
vention in 1836, and was again chosen to the 
Assembly in 1840. He died May 1, 1854, at the 
age of seventy-eight years. 

Isaac Hampton Kerr, son of Aaron and Sarah 
(Peppard) Kerr, was born June 24, 1814, in New 
Jersey, and remained with his father until they 
came to Cross Creek village. He then married 
Miss Jane Lee, who bore him three children, viz. : 
Leeanua (wife of Dr. T. C. M. Stockton, of Cross 
Creek village); Aaron Hervey (a merchant of Cross 
Creek village), and Milton Brainard, a merchant 
in southern Kansas). Mr. Kerr was a thorough 
business man, following mercantile pursuits during 
most of his life, and accumulating considerable 
property. He was a member, trustee and treas- 
urer of the Cross Creek Church for many years. 
He died February 1, 1866. 



THOMAS PETTIT, a prosperous and enter-" 
prising farmer of Cross Creek township, 
Washington Co. , Penn., is a son of Matthias 
Pettit, who was born on a farm near Wash- 
ington borough. He was reared to agricult- 
ural pursuits, but his inclinations were opposed to 
farm life, and when a boy he learned the tailor's 
trade. He was married to Sarah, a daughter of 
Barnabas Hughes, a prominent farmer living near 
Washington. Soon thereafter Matthias Pettit 
moved to Elkhart county, Ind., and there worked 
at his trade the remainder of his life, dying in 
L838. He left three children, namely: Margaret 
Ann (wife of John Munce), Thomas, and William 
H. (a blacksmith of Beaver Falls, Penn.) 

Thomas Pettit was bom April 4, 1836, in Elk- 
hart county, Ind., and soon after the death of his 
father came to the home of his grandfather in Am- 
well township, Washington Co., Penn. He re- 
mained on the farm in Amwell township until 
reaching maturity, and on March 27, 1861, was 
united in marriage with Miss Margaret Boone, 
who was born in 1836. The following children 
have beeu born to their union: Calvin M., born in 
1862 (a clerk in R. P. Wallace's glass store, Pitts- 
burgh, Penn.); William H., born in 1864 (living 
with his father); Minnie, born in 1866 (wife of G. 
Hunter Patterson, foreman of the R. P. Wallace 
glass store, Pittsburgh); Charles E., born in 1868, 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



537 



and Thomas M., born in 1873, are residing with 
their parents. Thomas Pettit began life working 
by the month, continuing to labor as a farm hand 
for five or six years, when he began farming on 
shares. Two years after his marriage he pur- 
chased his first farm, which was situated near 
Washington, but sold it the following year. He 
then lived in different parts of the county, some- 
times buying a farm and occasionally renting one. 
In 1889 he bought a fine place of 102 acres, where 
he has since resided, and upon which is a comfort- 
able residence, which enhances the value of the 
property. Politically, Thomas Pettit is a stanch 
Republican, as were his ancestors, his grandfather 
being one of the two men in Arnwell township, this 
county, who voted for J. P. Hale for President on 
the Abolition ticket. Mr. Pettit is an active mem- 
ber of the Disciple Church at Middletown. 



JAMES HAMILTON (deceased), who in his 
lifetime was a successful business man of 
North Strabane township, was of Irish par- 
entage. His father, Alexander Hamilton, 
was born in the Emerald Isle, and when a 
small boy came with his parents to America. 
They settled in North Strabane township, Wash- 
ington Co., Penn., where the parents died, 
and Alexander was married to Jane Colwell. 
Their children were James, Joseph C. and John 
(both farming in North Strabane township), Mary 
(widow of William Crawford), Sarah, Robert C. , 
Alexander, Elizabeth, James, Anna and Margaret. 
Of these, Robert O, Alexander, Elizabeth, James, 
Anna and Margaret are deceased. Mr. Hamilton 
voted with the Democratic party, but was not an 
active politician. He and his wife were both act- 
ive members of the old Pigeon Creek Presbyterian 
Church. Mrs. Hamilton died in 1860, and was 
followed to the grave by her husband in 1864. 
James Hamilton was born December 27, 1809, 
in North Strabane township, Washington Co., 
Penn. , and grew to manhood on the home place, 
receiving his early education at the country schools 
of the vicinity. On October 1, 1840, he was 
united in marriage with Miss Lucy Bushyager, 
who was born February 17, 1816, in Washington 
county, Penn., daughter of George and Mary 
Bushyager. Mr. Bushyager was born in Germany 
and immigrated to Pennsylvania, where he was 
married to Mary Miller, a native of that State. 
Nine children were born to them, of whom are 
now living: Sarah (wife of Joseph Gilchrist, a 
farmer of Iowa), John (a farmer of Westmoreland 
county, Penn.,) and Lucy (Mrs. James Hamilton). 
Mr. Bushyager was a farmer and died in West- 
moreland county, Penn.; his wife died in Iowa. 
Mr. and Mrs. James Hamilton had children 
as follows: Four are now living — Robert C, 



born February 27, 1851; Margaret, born March 
20, 1853 (married December 21, 1882, to Samuel 
McNary); James A., born October 16, 1855, and 
George I. born September 1, 1858; Sarah J., who 
died March 18, 1889, and three that died in 
infancy. Of this family George L. was married 
March 21, 1879, to Miss Sadie A. Chamberlain, 
who was born October 9, 1859, a native of Wash 
ington county, and three children were born to 
them, namely: James H, born December 17, 
1879; Nelly B., born September 27, 1881, and 
Hannah F., born October 19, 1883. Mr. Hamil- 
ton had a good farm of 106 acres, lying half a 
mile south of Thomas. In politics he was a Dem- 
ocrat, and was ever interested in all worthy enter- 
prises. He died November 25, 1892, aged eighty- 
three years. 

FAMES JOHNSTON, who, since 1884, has 
lived a retired life in the borough of Wash- 
^ I ington, is a native of Canton township, this 
— ' county, born April 12, 1821. His grand 
father, James Johnston, was a native of Lancaster 
county, Penn., where he was married, and reared 
the following children: Nancy (Mrs. Thomas Con- 
nelly), Jennie (Mrs. Benjamin McKehan), and 
Samuel. In 1810 he came to Washington county 
and settled in Canton township, where he died. 
He was a leading Democrat, and a member of the 
Presbyterian Church at Washington. 

Samuel Johnston, son of this old pioneer, was 
also a native of Lancaster county, born in 1787. 
About 1818 he was married to Sarah McClane, of 
Chartiers township, this county, and they settled 
down to the stern realities of life on the old home 
place. The names of the children born to them 
are James, John M., Samuel G., Sarah Martha 
and Nancy J. The father of this family died June 
14, 1870, the mother about 1841. They were 
members of the Presbyterian Church at Washing- 
ton, and in politics Mr. Johnston was a Democrat. 

James Johnston was educated in the public 
schools of his native township, and received a thor- 
oughly practical training to farm life, which voca- 
tion he successfully followed until 1884, when he 
retired from active labor. On January 21, 1845, 
he was married to Mary M. McClane, who was 
born December 31, 1824, in Chartiers township, 
Washington Co., Penn., a daughter of Ebenczer 
and Jane (McMurray) McClane. and the children 
born to them were Samuel M. , E. McClane, John 
(deceased), Sophronia (deceased), John (a physi- 
cian practicing in Wellsburgh, W. Va. ) and Anna 
J. The mother of this family was called from 
earth September 17, 1891, and was buried in Wash- 
ington cemetery. Of the sons born to James and 
Mary M. (McClane) Johnston, E. McClane mar- 
ried, in the fall of 1875, Miss Rachel Hill, daugh- 
ter of Abner'and Lizzie Hill, and five children were 



538 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



born to this union, viz. : Sudie (deceased in May, 
1890), Mamie (deceased in January, 1886), Bessie, 
Ora, and one that died in infancy at the time of its 
mother's death in June, 1887. John married, in 
1886, Miss Nannie Adams, and three children came 
to bless their home, viz. : William Parvin, Huldah 
Margaret and James Howard. Samuel M. and 
E. McClane Johnston are each operating farms 
owned by their father in Canton township. 

Mr. Johnston, by assiduous labor and sound 
judgment in the management of his affairs, accu- 
mulated, during the three decades of his active 
life, a comfortable competency, and he now owns 
330 acres of valuable land in Canton township, be- 
sides which he has an elegant brick dwelling on 
Jefferson avenue in the borough of Washington, 
where he and his daughter, Anna J., reside. He 
is a consistent member of the Presbyterian Church 
in Washington. In politics he is a straight Dem- 
ocrat, and has served as school director nine years 
with marked ability. 



M 



j RS. ELIZABETH J. MILLER is a grand- 
daughter of David Glenn, who was born 
in Coleraine, Ireland. He came to Cum- 
berland county, Penn., and married a 
Miss Thompson, who died not long after- 
ward, leaving him one sou, William. After her 
death David Glenn was married in Cumberland 
county, Penn., to Nancy Dunlap, a native of 
County Monaghan, Ireland. They first located 
near Newville, Perm., thence moving to Westmore- 
land county, and in 1809 made a permanent settle- 
ment in Washington county, where his children were 
reared as follows: William (the son of his first 
wife, who died in Chartiers township, this county); 
Gabriel (deceased in Claysville, Ohio); David, 
Samuel and John; Jane (who died in 1817); Polly 
(who died in March, 1882, when nearly ninety 
years of age) and James (the father of Mrs. Mil- 
ler), all now deceased. David Glenn, Sr., assisted 
in the organization of the Chartiers Cross Roads 
Church. He died about 1825. 

James Glenn was born September 3, 179N, near 
Carlisle, Penn., and March 'J',), 1836, was united in 
marriage with Maria McCoy, who was born May 
15, 1804, in Chartiers township. The young peo- 
ple first settled in Cant mi township, this county, 
where lie carried on farming for several years, and 
in 1867 moved to Washington borough, Penn., 
there living in retirement. He was a Republican 
in politics, and in religion a member of the Associ- 
ate Reformed Church, which afterward became 
the U. P. Society. He died May '.), 1873, followed 
b\ his wife October 17, 1881. They left two chil- 
dren: Elizabeth J. (Mrs. Miller), and -lames Dun- 
la]!, who is married to Sarah S. Laird, and is 
living on the old homestead in Canton township. 



They have four children: James H, Samuel D., 
Anna M. and Cora L. 

On May 29, 1884, Elizabeth J. Glenn was 
united in marriage with Col. Robert W. Miller, 
son of Jacob and Jane (Filson) Miller. The father 
was a native of Chester county, Penn., and the 
mother of eastern Virginia. They came to this 
county in an early day, and settled on the farm 
now occupied by his youngest son. He was a 
wagon maker, and erecting his shop upon the 
farm, followed his trade until his death, which oc- 
curred in November, 1857. They had a family of 
twelve children, but one of whom is now living. 

Robert W. Miller was born October 12, 1815, in 
Chartiers township, and received his early educa- 
tion in the district schools of the neighborhood. 
He afterward entered Washington College, where 
he was a member of the class of '36, but did not 
graduate. He taught eleven years in the schools 
of Washington county, being very successful in 
that vocation. In 1836 he was united in marriage 
with Abbie Gray Cundall, Rev. Dr. Eaglesou offi- 
ciating at the ceremony. She was a daughter of 
Edward G. and Patience (Bailey) Cundall. Mr. 
Miller followed teaching for some time after his 
marriage, then settled on the farm now occupied 
by his son. He learned the trade of a wagon 
maker, also following carpentry. His wife died on 
the farm in March, 1882, leaving five children, one 
of whom, Emily M. (Mrs. Robert Bell, of North 
Benton, Ohio), is deceased, and those yet living are 
Jacob Filson (married and living in North Benton, 
Ohio); Jane (Mrs. William Anderson, living in 
South Stiabane township, this county); Edward 
C. (married and residing in Baltimore, Md.), and 
Robert Bailey (who is married, and has two chil- 
dren). After the death of his first wife Col. Mil- 
ler was married to Elizabeth J. Glenn, continuing 
to reside on the old farm. He was colonel in the 
State militia, and in politics an active member of 
the Democratic party. He was an ardent member 
of the Presbyterian Church in Washington, and 
was always ready to do all in his power to further 
every worth}' enterprise. While en route for Ni- 
agara Falls, he was suddenly taken ill at the ' ' Hotel 
Spencer," Niagara, dying August 21, 1891. 
Col. Miller was a well-known and universally re- 
spected citizen, his demise being mourned by many 
friends. He was a man of fine personal appear 
ance, six feet in stature, and well proportioned. 



MKS. LILLIE M. AXTELL is the daugh- 
ter of John Gregg, and granddaughter 
of John and Nancy Gregg. Among the 
- 1 early settlers of Washington county, whose 
deeds are an undying monument to their 
memory, were the ancestors of this well known 
family. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



541 



In 1790 three brothers — Henry, William and 
John Gregg — left Ireland, the country of their 
birth, and crossed the ocean to America. After a 
voyage of sixteen weeks they all came to Washing- 
ton county, Penn., and settled in East Pike Run 
township, where Henry secured a tract of 349 
acres called the " Burning Mine," now owned by 
a Mr. Duvall. Henry Gregg served as justice of 
the peace in 1796. He was married to Jane Dow- 
ler, and of their children were: John, Henry, 
Thomas and Edward. The parents died in 1834 in 
West Pike Run township. The second brother of 
the three who emigrated from Ireland was William 
Gregg, and he was married in the old country to 
a lady, who bore him the following children: 
Henry, John, William, Andrew, Robert, Christina 
(wife of John Crow) and Mrs. Jaekman. John 
Gregg, the younger brother of the three who came 
to America in 1790, married in 1794, Miss Nancy 
Gregg, a native of Ireland. The names and dates 
of birth of their children are: James, August 8, 
1795; Eleanor, May 22, 1797; Andrew, April 9, 
1799; Mary, September 8, 1801; Henry, April 28, 
1804; Sarah, September 8, 1806; Ann, November 
9,1808; John, January 23, 1811; Margaret, Febru- 
arys, 1813, and Elizabeth, February 11, L815. 
The father died July 20, 1841, followed by the 
mother April 14, 1844; she was a member of the 
M. E. Church. The three brothers who first set- 
tled in America were all members of the M. E. 
Church, and in politics affiliated with the Whig 
party. 

John Gregg, son of John and Nancy Gregg, 
was born in Washington county, Penn., on the 
pioneer farm in East Pike Run township, where 
his boyhood was passed. On September 25, 1851, 
he was united in marriage with Sarah Conway, 
who was born August 31, 1824, and they were the 
parents of the following children: William H, 
born August 21, 1853; John E., born May 30, 
1856; Simeon, born February 3, 1858; James, born 
June 3, 1861 ; Nancy J., born November 9, 1S63; 
and Lillie M., whose name opens this sketch. Of 
these the four sons are all married, and live on 
farms in Vernon county, Mo. , while Nancy J. lives 
with her sister, Mrs. Lillie M. Axtell, on the home 
place in East Pike Run township. The father 
passed his entire life ou the homestead, and was 
an active worker in the Republican party. He 
died March 15, 1879, the mother on May 6, 1891. 
She was a member of the Cumberland Presby- , 
terian Church. 

Lillie M. Gregg was born January 23, 1865, on 
the home farm in East Pike Run township, and 
remained with her parents during girlhood. On 
April 29, 1886, she was united in marriage with 
Luther M. Axtell, a son of Rev. Luther Axtell, a 
Presbyterian clergyman, who was born and reared 
in Washington county, Penn., and there married 



to Sarah Lincoln. Since his death, which occurred 
March 23, 1886, his widow has resided in Coal 
Centre. She is a member of the Presbyterian 
Church. 

Luther M. Axtell was born January 9, 1855, in 
Greene county, Penn., and was reared and edu- 
cated in the town of Coal Centre, this county. He 
graduated at the Southwestern State Normal 
School, California, Penn., in 1880, and afterward 
founded and conducted private schools with great 
success for several years, and became principal of 
the West Brownsville public schools, also serving 
in succession, and with the same degree of capa- 
bility, as principal of the Burgettstown and Coal 
Centre schools. As an instructor in the public 
schools he has never been surpassed. " He intro 
duced into his school some of the finest points of 
the 'New Education,' and with the introduction 
came his marvelous success, which was the result 
of a determined and powerful intellect. He ended 
his brilliant career as a teacher at Grandville, 
Penn., and from the school at that place will come 
many who will show the power of his intellect." 
In 1891 he was elected county recorder on the Re- 
publican ticket, having from early life taken an 
active interest in politics. Mr. Axtell died March 
18, 1891, at Washington, Penn. (whither he had 
moved soon after his election), leaving a widow, 
and one daughter, Sarah, who was born March 
17, 1889. He had a long and severe illness, which 
he bore with Christian fortitude, and the end came 
quickly and peacefully, he remaining conscious 
until the last. His remains repose in Howe ceme- 
tery, near Coal Centre. Mrs. Axtell has a well- 
cultivated farm of 136 acres in East Pike Run 
township, where she has resided since the death 
of her husband. 



AMUEL McNARY (deceased). No family 
has been more prominently connected with 
the history of Washington county, and no 
name is better known than that of McNary. 
Samuel McNary is a grandson of Thomas McNary, 
and a son of David McNary, who was born in 
Scotland, and, coming to Pennsylvania when yet a 
lad, was afterward married to Jane Edgar, a na 
tive of Ireland. Their son, Samuel McNary, was 
born January 22, 1822, and passed his boyhood in 
the usual pursuits of rural life. Two weeks after 
attaining his majority he was united in marriage 
with Margaret, daughter of David and Margaret 
(Martin) Templeton, both of whom were natives of 
this county. Mr. and Mrs. McNary began wedded 
life as tenants, but when his father died he inner 
ited 140 acres in North Strabane township, to which 
they removed, and where they resided until Octo- 
ber 6, 1891, when they located in Houstonville, 
Chartiers township. They reared a family of 



542 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



thirteen children, as follows: Jane (wife of George 
Black), Margaret (deceased), Mary (deceased wife 
of James Pollock), Ann (living at home), Belle 
(Mrs. Samuel Berry), Lizzie (married to James 
Kelso), Ella (living at home). Edgar (married to 
Luella, daughter of William Morgan), David T. 
(married to Almeda Clark), John (married to Jen- 
nie Whitely), Joseph B. (married to Mattie Patti- 
son), James Martin (who married Lizzie Hess) 
and Emma (at home). Mr. McNary always took 
an active part in promoting the educational inter- 
ests of his community, and in politics was an ar- 
dent supporter of the principles of the Republican 
party. He was a member of the United Presbyte- 
rian Church, in which he served as elder for many 
years, and with which his family are connected. 
He passed away September 29, 1892. 




( ARON HERVEY KERR, a prominent figure 
i\ in Washington county business circles, is a 
l\ grandson of Aaron Kerr, who was born 
-> June 4. 177(1, in Maryland, and was married 
to Sarah Peppard (at the time living near 
Hackettstown, Md.), daughter of the late Rev. 
Francis Peppard, of that place. Aaron Kerr was 
a member of the Presbyterian Church from early 
manhood, and had been elected four times as ruling 
elder, first time in the Hackettstown (Md.) Church, 
when but twenty-one years of age. After their 
marriage Aaron and Sarah Kerr settled on Pigeon 
creek, this county, afterward moving to Washing- 
ton borough, where he was engaged in mercantile 
business; he was also a ruling elder in the church 
there. In 1831 he moved to Monongahela City, 
and there carried on commercial business until 
1845, when he came to Cross Creek village, still 
engaging in mercantile pursuits. In politics he 
was a Whig, and from 1824 to 1828 was a member 
of the Pennsylvania Legislature. He served as a 
member of the constitutional convention in 1836, 
and was again chosen to the Assembly in 1N40. 
He died May 1, 1854, at the age of seventy-eight. 
Isaac Hampton Kerr, son of AaroB-^aud Sarah 
(Peppard) Kerr, was born June 24. iSJJ^in New 
Jersey, and remained with his father until they 
came to Cross Creek village. He then married 
Miss Jane Lee, a granddaughter of Hugh Lee, 
who was born in Ireland, where he married Mary 
Elliott. In 1790 they emigrated to America, set- 
tling on the farm in Cross Creek township, Wash- 
ington Co., Penn.,now occupied by a great-grand- 
son, W. C. Lee. Six children were born to this 
couple: James, William, Hugh, Robert, Ann and 
Ellen. Of these Hugh Lee was born in 1773, in 
County Donegal, Ireland, and came with his father 
to Washington county. He was reared to agri- 
cultural pursuits, which he followed through life. 
He was united in marriage with Miss Hannah Orr, 



who was born in 1787, and to their union came 
children as follows: Mary, William, John, Mar- 
garet, an infant unnamed, Hugh, Hannah A. and 
Jane (Mrs. I. H. Kerr). The father was a very 
influential citizen, and used all the means in his 
power to promote the interests of others. In re- 
ligious faith he was a member of the Cross Creek 
Presbyterian Church, and in 1818 was elected an 
elder for life. His death occurred in 1837. in 
Claysville, while he was attending the Presbytery. 

To Mr. and Mrs. Isaac Hampton Kerr were 
born three children, viz. : Leeanna (wife of Dr. T. 
C. M. Stockton, of Cross Creek village), Aaron 
Hervey (a merchant of Cross Creek village) and 
Milton Brainard (a merchant in southern Kansas). 
Mr. Kerr was a thorough business man, following 
mercantile pursuits during most of his life, and 
accumulating considerable property. He was a 
member, trustee and treasurer of the Cross Creek 
Church for many years. He died February 1 , 
1866; his widow is yet living in Cross Creek town- 
ship. 

Aaron Hervey Kerr, the eldest son of Isaac H. 
and Jane (Lee) Kerr, was born May 29, 1850, in 
Cross Creek village. He passed his boyhood days 
in assisting his father in the store, and thus gained 
a knowledge of mercantile life, which has been the 
foundation of his career as one of the most success- 
ful business men of Washington county. He 
attended Duff's Business College, at Pittsburgh, 
Penn., from which he graduated in 1868. He then 
took charge of the extensive business of his father 
(who had died two years previous), having the 
entire management of the store. In 1867, when 
but seventeen years of age, Mr. Kerr made his first 
eastern trip to replenish his stock of goods. From 
the first he evinced traits which comprise the suc- 
cessful business man, and though young in yearn. 
he has achieved a reputation of which many an 
older and more experienced man might be proud. 
On May 27, 1S74, Mr. Kerr was united in mar- 
riage with Miss Georgette Gault, daughter of 
David Gault, a prominent farmer of Cross Creek 
township. She is a graduate of the Steubenville 
Seminary, class of '68, and is actively interested in 
the work of the Woman's Christian Temperance 
Union. They have two daughters: Janie Blanche, 
born March 31, 1875 (attending Hollidaysburg, 
(Penn.) school for girls), and Grace Matilda, born 
March 14, 1880. Mr. Kerr has been connected 
with the Burgettstown National Bank since its or- 
ganization, formerly as a stockholder and member 
of the first board of directors, then as vice-presi- 
dent, and is now president of that institution, hav- 
ing been unanimously elected at the January meet- 
ing of directors in 1887. In religion he is a mem- 
ber and treasurer of the Cross Creek Presbyte- 
rian Church. In politics he has always been a 
stanch member of the Republican party. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



543 



Jf W. SWART is descended from one of the 
oldest families of Washington county, and 
| dates the immigration of his ancestors into 
Washington county to about the year 1740, 
when the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania conveyed 
the land to colonists by the old, original patent, 
which was printed on parchment. His father was 
born on Ruff' 8 creek, Greene county, Penn. He fol- 
lowed farming, and passed nearly all of his life 
near Amity, Am well township, this county. His 
children were: John, Jacob, J. W., Henry Clay, 
Amos, Sarah Ann, Keziah, A. J. and Mary J. 

J. W. Swart was born September 1, 1823. near 
the present site of Amity, Amwell township, Wash- 
ington Co., Penu., and lived with his father's 
family until he was twenty-one years of age. He 
then moved to Greene county, Penn., and there 
took up and cleared 200 acres of land, to which he 
afterward added forty acres. On January 1, 1844, 
he was united in marriage with Sarah Sermon, 
who bore him the following children: William 
M. , Mary Adelaide, Asena Ann, George Warren 
(deceased), Amos Philip, John Thomas, David, 
Hermon and Sarah Rebecca. Iu 1866 Mr. Swart 
returned from Greene county, and settling in 
AVashington county engaged iu agriculture, after- 
ward operating a mill at Amitv, known as the 
"Hallam Mill." Mrs. Swartdied March 18, 1865, 
and September 29, 1866, Mr. Swart was married 
to Rebecca Carter, who has borne him four sons: 
Ulysses Grant, Jesse Allfree, Samuel Jackson and 
Carter Blaine. Mr. Swart is highly esteemed in the 
community for his many good qualities and is a 
public-spirited man. In politics he was origi- 
nally a Whig, and since the organization of the Re- 
publican party has .been an ardent follower under 
its banner. 

,\ILLIAM W. SPROWLS, M. D., the lead- 
ing physician of Houstonville, Penn., is a 
son of William and Margaret (Mitchell) 
Sprowls. The parents were natives of 
Washington county, Penn., and seven children 
were born to them, namely: Hiram (deceased), 
Sarah Ellen, Mary Jane, Margaret Melissa, Will- 
iam W., Mark Mitchell and Arthur Melville. 

Dr. William W. Sprowls was born March 30, 
1852, on the old place in Bentleyville, Washington 
county. At the age of seventeen he began teach- 
ing school, continuing in that profession for twelve 
years. He then began reading medicine withMcCar- 
rell & McElroy, of Hickory, this county, and gradu- 
ating at the Western Reserve University of Cleve- 
land, in the spring of 1844, began to practice that 
profession at McConnell's Mill, Chartiers town- 
ship. For nine years before practicing medicine 
he was engaged in the grocery business, and as 
postmaster at McConnell's Mill, this county. In 
1886 he located at Houstonville, this county, and 




iu addition to his practice took a half interest in a 
drug store with J. W. Lyle. They dissolved 
partnership during the autumn of 1887, and 
the following year Dr. Sprowls was given the 
care of the County Children's Homes. He was re- 
appointed in 1892 as successor to Dr. Weirich. 
Dr. Sprowls is a member of the I. O. O. F., is 
connected with the Jr. O. U. A. M. . and is identi- 
fied with the Washington County Medical Society. 
On October 8, 1874, he was united in marriage 
with Mary, daughter of Archie and Nancy (Wil- 
son) Wylie, and five children have blessed their 
marriage, namely: Nannie Margretta, Willie 
Wylie, Lloyd Sumuey, Gemella Mary and one de- 
ceased in infancy. Dr. and Mrs. Sprowls are 
members of the M. E. Church. 



JOHN A. DICKIE, a prosperous and well- 
known farmer of Donegal township, is of 
Scotch descent. His grandfather, Alexander 
Dickie, was born in the west of Scotland, and 
followed a farmer's life. He was there married to 
a countrywoman, and their children were: Alexan- 
der, Robert, John, James (deceased in Scotland), 
Nancy, and one whose name is unknown. These 
children were all born in Scotland, and all save 
James accompanied their parents to the United 
States, in about the year 1832. They landed at 
New York, and moving westward, located in the 
northern part of Donegal township, Washington 
Co., Penn. Here Mr. Alexander continued to fol- 
low farming until his wife died, when he soon 
afterward went to live with his daughter-in-law, 
and at her home passed away. 

John Dickie, son of Alexander Dickie, was born 
in Scotland, and passed his early years on his 
father's farm in Pennsylvania. He was married 
to Margaret Wilson, a native of Fayette coun- 
ty, Penn., and they had five children, namely: 
Elizabeth (living in Claysville, this county, the 
widow of John Mills), John A. (our subject), Ann 
(Mrs. Nelson McNeal, of Donegal township), Rob- 
ert (a farmer of Donegal township), and William 
(deceased in infancy). For a number of years af- 
ter his marriage Mr. Dickie followed farming in the 
northern part of Donegal township, and then 
moved to West Virginia, where he died in 1854. 
He was a Democrat in political opinions. His wid- 
ow is now living in Claysville. 

John A. Dickie, the eldest son of John and 
Margaret (Wilson) Dickie, was born December 7, 
1844, in Donegal township, and received his edu- 
cation at the country schools. At the age of ten 
years, his father having died, he went to live with 
Guyan Moore, of Donegal township, where he 
made his home, and assisted in the farm work, un- 
til the spring of 1862, when he remained a short 
time with William Lytle. On August 16, 1862, 



:.il 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



he enlisted in Company C, One Hundred and 
Fortieth P. V. I.; he took part in the battle of 
Gettysburg, and being severely wounded on the 
second day of that fight, was obliged to remain in 
the hospital nine months. On recovering, he 
joined his regiment at Deep Bottom, Va., and the 
next day was again wounded. Mr. Dickie was un- 
fit for service during the remainder of the war, 
and when the struggle was ended, he returned to 
Washington county, Penn. , and engaged in farm 
work. On January 27, 1869, he was united in 
marriage with Mrs. Sarah Jane (Hicks) Miller; 
widow of William Miller, and a native of Marshall 
county, W. Va. To their union have been born 
three daughters: Margaret Elizabeth, Anna Mary 
and Fannie Esther, all of whom are living at home. 
After his marriage Mr. Dickie farmed in Donegal 
township, and in 1879 purchased his present well- 
improved piece of farm land, located about two 
miles west of Glaysville, along the National pike, 
formerly called the "Ned McLaughlin farm." He 
has erected a new residence, also a good barn, and 
these improvements have greatly enhanced the 
value and appearance of the place. Both he and 
his wife are members of the Presbyterian Church 
at Claysville, in which Mr. Dickie is a ruling elder. 
Politically he is a lifelong Republican 




ILLIAM W. KEENAN. This prominent 
and successful agriculturist, and highly 
esteemed citizen of Donegal township, 
where he owns one of the finest of the 
many excellent farms to be here seen, deserves 
more than a passing notice in the pages of this Bio- 
graphical Record. He was born March 19, 1832, 
in Donegal township, Washington Co., Penn., on 
the farm he now owns. 

Henry Keenan, grandfather of subject, was a 
native of Belfast, Ireland, where he was twice 
married, his first wife bearing him two children: 
James and Samuel, and his second wife also two 
children: John and Martha. The father of this 
family, some time prior to the year 1800, came to 
this country with his wife and some of his children, 
settling in Independence township, Washington 
Co., Penn., where he passed the rest of his days. 
His sou James was one of these pioneer immi- 
grants, and the first record we can find of him in 
Washington county is of his working as a day 
laborer on a farm in Independence township. In 
1812 he was married to Elizabeth Smith, a native 
(pf Washington county, who bore him eiyht chil- 
dren, the following being their names and the 
dates of their birth: Jane, January 29, 1813; 
Henry, June 15, 1815; Mary Ann, September 11, 
1817; John, February 7, 1819; George, September 
14, 1822; Forgus, February 10, 1824; Samuel, 
June 25, 1828, and William VV., March 19, 1832. 



After his first marriage Mr. Keenan settled on a 
tract of land he had purchased in Donegal town- 
ship, near the confluence of Buck run and Buffalo 
creek, and here he followed agriculture all his life, 
meeting with hard-earned success, and increasing, 
year by year, his possessions. He died April 24, 
1853, on the farm he had first located on, and was 
followed by his wife March 2, 1854. He was a 
prominent member of and liberal contributor 
toward the Dutch Fork Disciple Church, and in 
politics he was a lifelong Democrat. 

William W. Keenan early learned the practical 
lessons of farm life on his father's farm, his liter- 
ary education, such as it was. being received at the 
schools of the neighborhood. His parents were 
for many years almost helpless, requiring no small 
amount of care and attention ; a great portion of 
which fell to the lot of our subject, and as a conse- 
quence his attendance at school was much circum- 
scribed. He remained with his parents as long as 
they lived, and after their decease took charge of 
the home farm, which he has since successfully 
conducted. On April 3, 1806, Mr. Keenan was 
married to Amanda Wallace, who was born Febru- 
ruary 3, 1832, in Ohio county, W. Va., a daughter 
of Robert Wallace, of Brooke county, W. Va., who 
was born May 5, 1805, in Westmoreland county, 
Penn. He went to West Virginia with his parents 
when a lad, and there married Hannah Arthur, who 
was born in 1810, in Independence township, 
Washington Co., Penn. They removed to Licking 
county, Ohio, where the mother died August 15, 
1846. They had seven children, as follows: 
Amanda M. (Mrs. Keenan); Robert A., teaching 
in a commercial college at Topeka, Kans. ; Mary 
Jane (deceased at the age of three years); Samuel 
B., who died at the age of four years; William A. 
(a farmer, in Kansas); David M. (who died in in- 
fancy), and one who died unnamed. Mr. and Mrs. 
Keenan have no children of their own, but have 
adopted two, a boy and a girl, for whom they pro- 
vided a good home; the girl, now grown to young 
womanhood, is married to Henry C. Anderson; the 
boy, now a young man, is yet living with his foster 
parents. Mr. and Mrs. Keenan are members of 
the Disciple Church. In political sentiments he 
was originally a Whig, and since the formation of 
the party has been a straight Republican. He justly 
enjoys the respect and esteem of his friends and 
neighbors, and his success in life is marked to day 
by a pleasant home and one of the finest farms in 
Donegal township. 



M 



% 



ICHAEL DAUGHERTY, a leading mer- 
chant of West Alexander, was born June 
30, 1819, in Donegal township, Washing- 
ton Co., Penn. He is a son of Roger 

Daugherty, who was born in County Done- 



gal, Ireland, and coming to America when a young' 



^YASHINGTON COUNTY. 



545 



man, he was married to Ellen Aiken, a native of 
Maryland. They then settled in Washington 
county, Penn. , first locating on Pigeon creek, 
where they remained several years, after which they 
came to Donegal township. To this pioneer couple 
the following children were born: Charles, Mary 
(Mrs. William Emorick), Elizabeth (Mrs. Thomas 
Arnold), Isabella (wife of James Campsey), John, 
Bridget (Mrs. Samuel Kirk), Michael (our sub- 
ject), Sarah (wife of S. Patterson), and Eleanor 
(Mrs. John Kirk). The mother of this family died 
February 23, 1866, aged seventy-nine years, four 
months, seventeen days. 

Michael Daugherty received his education at the 
subscription schools of Donegal township. At the 
age of eighteen years he was apprenticed to Joseph 
McKusky, of West Alexander, ti> Irani the tailor's 
trade, and remained with him three years. He af- 
terward began business as a merchant tailor in 
partnership with Samuel Galloway, and so con- 
tinued for ten years. Mr. Daugherty then purchased 
a confectionery store, which he has since carried on 
with well-merited success. On March 8, 1842, he 
was married to Elizabeth, daughter of David Wil- 
son, of West Alexander, and they had two children:' 
Minerva (deceased), and R. B. , of Washington 
borough. This wife dying May IT), 1849, he was 
next married on March 27, 1851, to Angelina, 
daughter of George Young, of West Virginia, and 
they have had two daughters: Frances E. (deceased 
wife of Bev. E. J. Smith), and Ida M. (Mrs. 
James Sutherland). Mr. Daugherty is a repre- 
sentative self-made man, having commenced life 
with but little, and by industry and enterprise has 
achieved success. He is a stanch member of the 
M. E. Church; in politics he was formerly a Whig, 
and is now an active worker in the ranks of the 
Republican party. He has served as burgess of 
West Alexander, and as a member of the borough 
council, and is recognized as a useful, loyal citizen. 



JOHN M. WEYGANDT, a leading and suc- 
cessful agriculturist of Amwell township, is a 
native of Nottingham township, Washington 
Co., Penn., having been born February 27, 
1856, on his father's farm, and when three 
years of age was brought with the family to the old 
home in Amwell township, this county. 

G. Weygandt, the pioneer ancestor, emigrated 
with his family at an early date from Germany to 
America, and took up a farm of 180 acres on " Gin- 
ger Hill,'' Nottingham township, this county, 
where he successfully carried on general agricult- 
ure. He had the following named children: Su- 
sanna, Jacob W., Solomon, Isaac and Abraham 
(all now deceased). Mr. Weygandt died about the 
year 1840, an active member of the Lutheran 
Church. 



Isaac Weygandt, son of G. Weygandt, was born 
March 4, 1817, in Nottingham township, Washing- 
ton county. He received his rudimentary education 
at the subscription schools of the neighborhood of 
his birthplace, after which he attended an academv , 
and during a portion of the time taught vocal mu- 
sic. He was united in marriage with Miss Susan 
Swickord, of Nottingham township, daughter of 
John and Mary Swickord, a prominent family of 
that township, and to them were born the following 
children: Mary Ann (Mrs. Dague), Margaret (de- 
ceased), Sadie (Mrs. Pease), Lavina (Mrs. Daly- 
rimple), George and John M. Mr. Weygandt 
followed farming principally, and was a prosperous 
man. He was a prominent Democrat, and held the 
offices of road commissioner and township clerk. 
He and his wife were members of the Lutheran 
Church, while their children are all Presbyterians. 
Mr. Weygandt died in 1864, on the old farm in 
Amwell township. 

John M. Weygandt, the subject of this memoir, 
was married on October 31, 1878, to Miss Anna B. 
Darlington, daughter of Griffith and Martha Darl- 
ington, of Washington, this county, and three 
children have been born to them, viz. : Mabel, Al- 
bert and Robert. Mr. Weygandt is an active 
member of the Democratic party, and in religion 
he is a member of the Presbyterian Church. 



J | AMES GRIER was born Jannary 8, 1820, at 
his present home in North Strabane town- 
j ship, this county. He is a grandson of 
Thomas Grier, a native of Scotland, whence 
he removed with a brother (whose name is un- 
known) to Belfast, Ireland. Thomas proceeded to 
America, followed by the brother some time later, 
and failing to find each other, both supposed the 
Indians had killed the other. Thomas Grier 
located in Chester county, Penn., thence removing 
to Cumberland, Penn., where he married, and 
reared a family of twelve children. 

James Grier, a son of the pioneer Thomas, was 
a native of Cumberland county, Penn. , and in 
early life was married to a Miss Espy, who died 
soon after their union. James Grier then made 
choice of a second wife in the person of Mary 
Staurt, who bore him the following children: 
Samuel S. (born in Carlisle, Penn.), and Thomas, 
James, Guion, Janie and David (all born in Wash- 
ington county), all now deceased excepting James. 
In 1810 the father paid $10 per acre for 160 acres 
of land in North Strabane township, Washington 
Co., Penn., where he died in 1833, followed by 
his widow in 185V>, when in her eightieth year. 

James Grier, son of James and Mary (Staurt) 
Grier. remained with his parents during early 
youth, and inherited the old place where his parents 
died. On February 18, 1858, he was united in mar- 



546 



WASHIXGTOX COUXTY. 



riage with Hannah, daughter of William and Mary 
(Bracken) Van Eman, and the following children 
have been born to their union: Mary V. (deceased), 
Jennie, Sarah Ann, William James, Rebecca, 
Frances and Thomas S. All of this family are 
devout members of the Central Presbyterian 
Church, of Canonsburg. Mr. Grier votes with 
the Republican party. 



I, AMES CARROLL, a highly respected and 

! much esteemed farmer citizen of West Fin- 

t J ley township, was born November 15, 1833, 

^^ on the old Carroll homestead in East Fiuley 

township, this county. 

Robert Carroll and wife, accompanied by his 
two brothers, John and Hamilton, and a sister 
Jane, emigrated in 1760 from Ireland to America, 
locating in a place called Mingo, western Pennsyl- 
vania, thence moving in a few years to East Fin- 
ley township, Washington Co. , where they settled 
on one of the headwaters of Wheeling creek, near 
the present postoffice of Gale, and began cutting 
down the forest trees until a space was cleared for 
the log cabin (perhaps the first in that vicinity) 
which they soon erected. Like all the pioneer set- 
tlers, they were in hourly danger from the hostile 
savages, and endured the inevitable hardships of 
1 iack woods life. In 1781 work began in earnest, 
and Washington county was founded. In the sum- 
mer of that year John and Hamilton Carroll, who 
resided with their brother Robert, went out one 
morning, and when but a short distance from the 
cabin both men were shot down by the Indians. 
Robert's wife (who with her two children was in 
the cabin) heard the report, and knowing the boys 
had no firearms with them, immediately grasped' 
the situation; she snatched the infant from his 
couch and with him in her arms, and her little son 
of four years clinging to her side, ran to a corn- 
field near by, where she waited till the Indians 
reached the cabin. The faithful dog remained on 
guard at the door, and barked vigorously at the 
murderers, who were obliged to kill him before they 
could enter the house. The heroic mother knew 
when the barking of the dog ceased that the Indians 
were busily engaged in ransacking the house, and 
immediately taking advantage of the opportunity 
ran for life with her children to the nearest fort, 
which was five miles distant (now at Prosperity), 
though she had to travel much further; but she 
reached it safely at last, the infant in her arms, 
and little James running by her side. While these 
terrible scenes were in progress the husband and 
father was absent, having left home a day or two 
before, and gone to a mill on the Monongahela 
river. On returning home he was horrified to find 
the floor stained with blood, and other evidences of 
the presence of the marauding savages. Almost 
heart-broken the poor man hurried to the fort, and 



was overjoyed to find his wife and children safe 
within, but heard with anguish of the terrible fate 
of his brothers. A few days later a party of men 
left the fort, and finding the dead bodies of John 
and Hamilton (whose scalps the Indians had taken 
as trophies), buried them in what has since been 
known as the Carroll graveyard: these two victims 
of Indian fury being the first who were there in- 
terred. The burying ground is but a short dis- 
tance from where the cabin stood. After all traces 
of the Indians had disappeared, Robert and his 
wife returned home and were not again molested. 
The infant Robert, who was saved from the Indians 
by his mother, grew to manhood and married Mar- 
garet Craig, who bore him one daughter; while 
James, whose little feet proved of such good 
service on that memorable day, was united in mar- 
riage with Margaret Marshall, to which union the 
following children were born: William, Robert, 
John, Hamilton, James, Hugh, Joseph, Thomas, 
Mary and Jane. 

John Carroll, father of subject, was born in 
1808 on the same farm as was his son James, and 
was here reared to agricultural pursuits, which he 
followed on the old homestead until 1855, in which 
year he moved to West Finley township, where he 
passed the rest of his days, dying in 1876. He 
had married a Miss Rebecca Donley, and they had 
seven children, as follows: James, the subject of 
this sketch; William D., who married Melissa 
Alexander; John H, who married Anna Wirt; 
Hamilton B., who married Ida Underwood; Eliza- 
beth, married to Harrison Thompson; Mary, mar- 
ried to Jackson Steele, and Sarah, married to Will- 
iam Eckols. John Carroll was a practical brick 
burner. Politically he was a solid Democrat until 
the breaking out of the Civil war. 

James Carroll came to West Finley township 
with his father in 1855, and has been a resident of 
the same ever since, living on various farms from 
time to time, but finally settling on his present tine 
property, which is well equipped with all modern 
improvements, including a comfortable and com- 
modious dwelling. Mr. Carroll was married Sep- 
tember 30. 1858, to Miss Agues Patterson, who 
was born January 12, 1840, in West Finley town- 
ship, daughter of Robert and Sarah (Rodgers) 
Patterson, and to this union six children have been 
born, viz.: Ola G, wife of W. L. Blayney; Lulu 
J., wife of Harry Sprowls, and Ella, Cora M., John 
H. and Alta Rebecca, all at home. Politically Mr. 
Carroll is a stanch Republican. 



djOSHFA and ANDREW G. PLYMIRE are 
descended from a hardy and industrious 
I race of people, who (according to the earliest 
authentic record) fir-t settled in York county, 
Penn. The exact date of their immigration 
to this country is unknown, but they were among 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



■'.47 



the earliest pioneers of that county. The grand- 
father of Joshua and Andrew G. Plyrnire moved at 
an early date to Washington county, Penn., bringing 
his family with him. The journey was necessarily 
slow and tedious, the baggage being carried on 
the backs of horses, while the family usually 
walked beside them, but they finally arrived in 
Washington county, and erected their cabin home 
on the farm which is now the property of their 
descendants. Years of toil and privations fol- 
lowed, of which the present generation can form 
no adequate conception, surrounded as we are to- 
day by the comforts and luxuries of life. But 
they struggled bravely on, these heroic pioneers, 
and prepared the way for the comfortable homes 
and cultivated fields which we possess. To Mr. 
and Mrs. Plyrnire were born children as follows: 
Henry, Adam, Martin, Barney, John, Samuel, 
Barbara, Elizabeth and Catherine. In political 
opinions Mr. Plyrnire was a stanch Democrat, and 
in religion he was one of the organizers of the 
Lutheran Church. 

John Plyrnire, a son of the above named pio- 
neer, was born in York county, Penn., and was 
only two years of age when his father came to 
Washington county. He passed his boyhood days 
on the home farm, and received a limited educa- 
tion, as was the common lot of the children of 
the frontier. On attaining mature age he was 
united in marriage with Catherine Gantz, who was 
a member of one of the old families of the county, 
and she bore him the following children: Joshua, 
Absalom G. (born in September, 1824), Sarah 
(Mrs. Philip Welch), Phoebe (Mrs. William De 
Normandie), Barbara (Mrs. Joseph England), An- 
drew G., Mahala (Mrs. Henry De Normandie), 
Lewis, and Mary (wife of J. H. Stewart). After 
his marriage Mr. Plyrnire settled on the home 
place in South Strabane township, where he re- 
sided until his death. He united with the Lu- 
theran Church in early youth, and died in that faith 
in 1870, having been preceded by his wife in ]Nr>3; 
both are now buried in Washington cemetery. In 
political preferences he was an active Democrat. 

Joshua Plyrnire, son of John and Catherine 
(Gantz) Plyrnire, was born March 19, 1823, on his 
father's farm in South Strabane township, Wash- 
ington county, and passed his youth at home. He 
is an active member of the Democratic, party, and 
a liberal supporter of various enterprises tending 
toward the general improvement. 

Andrew G. Plyrnire, third son of John and 
Catherine Plyrnire, was born July 12, 1833, on the 
paternal acres. On December 19, 1867, he was unit- 
ed in marriage with Melissa E., daughter of Jacob 
Harshman, of Buffalo township, this county, and 
they have had the following children: Harry, 
Walter, Boyd, Samuel and Alvin. After his mar- 
riage Mr. Plyrnire came to the farm where he now 



resides. He is an enterprising citizen, and a 
member of the Democratic party. In religious 
connection he is a member of the Presbyterian 
Church at Washington. 



THOMAS FORSYTH. Among the leading 
business men of Canonsburg this gentleman 
is a prominent figure. His grandparents 
were natives of Ireland, and their children 
immigrated to America in an early day, 
locating in Independence and Cross Creek town- 
ships, Washington Co., Penn. 

Thomas Forsyth, one of the children of the 
above-mentioned family, was born in County Down, 
Ireland, and was about eighteen years of age when 
he came with the rest of the family to America, 
having previously learned the tailor's trade. He 
first located in Independence township, this 
county, some years afterward moved to Venice, 
then purchased a farm in Cecil township, this 
county, where most of his life was passed. He was 
married to Margaret, daughter of William Craw- 
ford, a native of Mt. Pleasant township, this 
county, and their children were William C, John, 
Thomas, Nancy (wife of James Quinn),. George 
and Oliver. The father was a Whig and Re- 
publican. In church relations ho was formerly 
connected with the Covenanter Society, then united 
with the Seceder Church. Mr. and Mrs. Forsyth 
are buried in Clinton, Allegheny county, whither 
they had removed a few years before their death. 

Thomas Forsyth, son of Thomas and Margaret 
(Crawford) Forsyth, was born April 25, 1825, in 
Independence township, this county, and attended 
the subscription schools of the neighborhood 
during his boyhood, which afforded but meager 
advantages. At the age of fourteen years he 
entered the employ of his father in the tailor 
business, serving an apprenticeship of six years. 
In 1845 he opened a tailor establishment in 
Hickory, this county, which he conducted formany 
years. On September 7, 1847, he was married to 
Jane A. McNary, a native of Mt. Pleasant town- 
ship, daughter of Samuel McNary. In 1873 Mr. 
and Mrs. Forsyth moved to Steubenville, Ohio. 
While a resident of Steubenville Mr. Forsyth in- 
vented Forsyth's system of actual measurement, 
whereby an impress of the body is transferred to 
the cloth, which system is still in practical use. 
In 1876 he came to Canonsburg, this county, where 
he conducted an extensive business until 1888. 
His son, A. M. Forsyth, being a practical tailor, is 
continuing the business at the old stand. He is 
married to Miss M. M. Smith, of Canonsburg. 
Thomas Forsyth is an active worker in the ranks 
of the Republican party, and is now serving as 
director of the public schools. In religious faith 
he is a member and elder of the Central Presby- 



548 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



terian Church. The following children have been 
born to this marriage: McNary (who was educated 
in "Washington and Jefferson College, is a gradu- 
ate of Western Theological Seminary, and was a 
Presbyterian minister; he married Miss Annie 
Birchtield, of Allegheny City, Penn. ; was placed at 
Millvale church); Mary Margaret (Mrs. George 
Ralston); Samuel T. ; Ah in M. ; C." J. (attended 
Washington and Jefferson College, then attended 
the Western Theological Seminary and is now a 
Presbyterian clergyman; he married Miss Anna 
McGahey, of Hubbard, Ohio; he is situated at 
West Elizabeth, Penn.), and James W. Of these 
children, McNary, M. M. Ralston, Samuel T. and 
James W. are deceased. 



djAMES H. McGOWEN. This well-known, 
influential citizen of Franklin township is a 
I native of the county, born February 19, 1828, 
in Amwell township. 
His grandfather, James McGoweu, who was born 
near Philadelphia, Penn. , the youngest of seven 
children, came to Washington county with his 
brothers Robert and William, and all three made 
a settlement here. In early life James McGowen 
was apprenticed to a manufacturer of reeds, serv- 
ing his time in this county. He used to go to 
Cincinnati in a canoe, starting from Wheeling, 
and bring back material for his trade. When he 
was quite a young man he accompanied Col. Will- 
iamson against the Indians through Virginia 
and Ohio, and had many narrow escapes, though 
he was never injured. At about the age of twenty- 
six he was married to Abigail Haris, who bore him 
a large family of children, of whom James was the 
only one to attain majority; Mr. McGowen' s sec- 
ond wife was a Miss Foster, who also bore him a 
large family. His first dwelling-house was erected 
on the ground now occupied by the colored M. E. 
church, and he had to make a clearing for it 
among the hazel bushes. This venerable pioneer 
died at the age of ninety-two years, in politics a 
Jacksonian Democrat, and in religion a member of 
the Presbyterian Church. 

James McGowen, the father of subject, passed 
his early life both in town and on his father's farm. 
He was well educated, having attended, in addi- 
tion to the common schools, Washington College; 
he taught school for many years in the county, 
proving a most successful teacher. When a young 
man he married Mary, daughter of Daniel Hughes, 
and the children born to their union are: Abigail 
(Mrs. William Adams), James H. , Elizabeth (Mrs. 
Wilson Wvlio) and Mary. The father died March 
26, 1871, the mother August 1, 1886, and both 
rest in Washington cemetery. They w T ere members 
of the M. E. Church, and in politics Mr. McGowen 
was originally a Whig, afterward a Republican. 



James H. McGowen has spent his entire life or 
the farm where he now resides, where his parent; 
had moved when be was but three weeks old; he ;it 
tended during a few of the winter months the schools 
of his district, but for the most part he is self edu 
cated. On February 10, 1854, he was united ii: 
marriage with Elizabeth, daughter of D. T. 
Hughes, of New York, and their children are 
Mary Miranda I Mrs. Richard Wilson), Albert A. 
(married to Laura, daughter of John Ramsej i 
Eliza I., Warren Blachby, Lizzie A., Edwin It. H., 
James H. , Jr., and Etta W. The family are all 
adherents of the M. E. Church at Washington, of 
which Mr. and Mrs. McGowen have been members 
for forty years. In his political relations he was 
originally a Whig, having cast his first vote foi 
Gen. Scott, and since the organization of the Re- 
publicans he has been a member of that party. 
He has been supervisor, and has served as school 
director nine years with credit to himself and the 
utmost satisfaction to his constituents. 



H', O. DAY. In 1795 there came by slow and 
1 \ painful stages a few families from Munis 
r4'i town, N. J., to Washington county, Penn., 
II — ' to found homes for themselves on the 
frontier; and, lured by the reports of old 
neighbors who had some years previously settled 
there, they took up land and erected their cabins in 
Morris township. Among these were the family 
of Artemas Day— consisting of himself, his wife 
(Bethany ( Axtell) Day) and their children, Betbuel, 
Parmelia, Sarah, Luther, Daniel and Artemas 
and that of Zephaniah Hathaway, with his wife 
(Sarah (Prudent Hathaway) and their children, 
Joseph and Hannah. Bound together by old 
friendship, and common cause against nature and 
Indians, these families were destined to still closer 
relationship, for the little Daniel Day, three years 
old at the time of that trying journey across the 
mountains, and Hannah Hathaway, two years his 
junior, were married in 1818. They too, settled in 
Morris township, where their busy lives were spent. 

Artemas Day, the pioneer of this family, was an 
unobtrusive citizen, best known as being influential 
in the organization and support of church and 
school, still holding proudly the honor of having 
been a soldier of the Revolution. His son, Daniel. 
with such educatiou as the country schools of that 
time afforded, was yet widely read, and among the 
the best informed men of his day. In politics he 
was an uncompromising Whig. He served as a 
soldier in the war of 1S12, and died in 1830, 
leaving his widow with four children— Cynthia H., 
Anne E., A. O. and Clarissa. 

A. O. Day, the subject proper of these lines, 
though but a little lad when his father died, com- 
menced then his tight with the world. And though 







V 




(ZrfrrS-ay 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



551 



sometimes he had to say: " The battle goeth hard," 
he triumphed, and may be said to have won suc- 
cess in the truest meaning of that word. His boy- 
hood was spent on the farm, and in a life of un- 
remitting toil he yet managed to secure more than 
the ordinary education of " district schools;" read- 
ing history by firelight, in a "sugar camp; " or, with- 
out a teacher, interpreting the mysterious symbols 
of higher mathematics. He taught school for 
several terms, and then, after a brief preparatory 
coarse in Washington College, read medicine. 
But the feeling was strong that teaching was his 
true vocation, and medicine not proving attractive, 
he again entered the schoolroom as teacher, not to 
leave it until after thirty years of service. It is as 
a teacher that he is most widely known and will 
be longest remembered. He was twice elected 
register of his county — in 1872, and again in 1875. 
In politics a Republican, and in religious belief a 
Cumberland Presbyterian, he can be called neither 
a narrow partisan nor a bigoted sectarian. 

In 1850 Mr. Day was married to Hannah Jane, 
daughter of Andrew Bell and Mary A. (Boyd) Bell, 
of Washington, this county, and he has always 
lived in or near Washington, for the last fifteen 
years on his farm in Franklin township. Of his 
seven living children — four sons and three daugh- 
ters — Edgar W. is a Presbyterian minister; Alfred 
M. and John N. are farmers; Minor H. is an editor; 
Bell M. is a teacher; Jen H. is the wife of Charles 
B. Andrew, of Franklin township; and Cordelia 
B., the youngest daughter, is with her parents. 




WILLIAM C. McCOLLUM, a prominent, 
progressive farmer of Amwell township, is 
W a grandson of John McCollum, who came 
with his wife from New Jersey to Wash 
ington county, Penn., inan early day, and located 
near Amity, on the spot where Albert Kelsey's res- 
idence now stands. John McCollum there pur- 
chased about 100 acres of the original "Thaddeus 
Dodd" patent, and began farming, takinghispart 
in the development of the wild new country. His 
children were Moses, Alexander, Jacob, Stephen, 
John, Thomas, Japheth B., Mary (Mrs. Miles), 
Sarah (Mrs. Masters), Hannah, and Deborah (Mrs. 
Smith). 

Moses McCollum was born in New Jersey Feb- 
ruary 23, 1784, and in boyhood came with his pat- 
ents to Amwell township, where he attended the 
district school in the winter, and assisted his father 
in summer. Although his educational opportuni- 
ties were limited, they were sufficient to enable 
him to become a successful school teacher. He 
was also a weaver, aud had to employ helpto carry 
on the farm while he engaged in that business. 
On March 26, 1818, he was united in marriage 
with Miss Mary Clutter, of Morris township, and 

27 



to this union were born nine children: Samuel, 
born June 5, 1819; Sarah, born April 13, 1821; 
Rachel (Mrs. Bebout), born March 9, 1823; John, 
born November 29, 1824; Jane (Mrs. Miles), born 
October 6, 1826; Moses, born November 4, 1828 
(he enlisted in Company D, One Hundred and For- 
tieth Pennsylvania Volunteers, in which he was 
orderly sergeant, and died May 17, 1803, from the 
effects of a wound received at the battle of Chan- 
cellorsville, while bravely defending his couotrj I; 
William C, born November 2, 1830; Lectj C 
born January 30, 1834, aud Andrew J., born April 
29, 1836. Mr. McCollum was very successful in 
business, and accumulated a comfortable property 
for that period. He was a public-spirited man, 
and ill politics was an Old-line Whig. On March 
31, 1839, he died, aged fifty-five, his widow in 
1881, in her eighty-sixth year. 

William C. McCollum was born on the old farm 
in Amwell township, this county, and now occupies 
a portion of the very house wherein he first saw 
the light. He has never left the home of his child- 
hood, and the greater part of his earlier years were 
passed in assisting his widowed mother aud attend 
ing the common schools, which then afforded very 
meager opportunities; but by dint of good judg- 
ment and extended observation, be has acquired a 
valuable store of general information. On June 5, 
1801, he was united in marriage with Harriet E. 
Thomas, of .Morris township, this county, who was 
born October 10. 1839. Mr. and Mrs. ' McCollum 
have had five children: James Roscoe, born April 
2, 1862, now principal of the schools in Wright 
county. Iowa; Grant, born June 2, 1865; John R., 
born June 30, 1868, now in the freshman class of 
Washington aud Jefferson College, Washington; 
Mary J., born January 19, 1878, and Myrtle, born 
February 23, 1882. Mr. McCollum has a well- 
cultivated farm, consisting of 158 acres, the result 
of his own economy aud hard work. He was school 
director for three years, and has always been 
deeply interested in educational matters. Having 
experienced the lack of such advantages in his own 
boyhood and youth, he is doubly anxious to see the 
rising generation enjoy superior school training. 
He and his family have many years been members 
of the Methodist Protestant Church. 



JR. HENDERSON, a prominent stockman 
and farmer of Chartiers township, was born 
October 5, 1858, in Chartiers township, this 
county. His father, Robert Henderson, was 
born January 2, 1816, in the same house where 
his son first saw the light of day. Robert Hen- 
derson was reared to agricultural pursuits, and 
when a young man was married, on September 25, 
1850, to Margaret Reed, who died August 29, 
1882, leavingone son and two daughters to mourn 



>52 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



her death, namely: J. R. , Mary Martha (wife of 
William Grounds, has two children) and Jemima 
J. (Mrs. Linus Welch). The father was a 
prosperous agriculturist, and for many years had 
served as ruling elder in the United Presbyterian 
Church, and also took an active interest in the 
educational progress of the community. He died 
June 29, 1886. 

J. R. Henderson passed his youth on the home 
place, receiving a common-school education, and 
on June 25, 1884, was united in marriage with 
Elizabeth F. Martin, and they have had two sons, 
George D. and an infant (deceased). Mr. and 
Mrs. Henderson are members of the United Pres- 
byterian Church, and in business life he is very 
successful, making a specialty of raising a fine 
breed of stock. 



d JONATHAN McWILLIAMS, a worthy repre- 
I sentative of one of the oldest and most prom- 
I inent families of Washington county, is a 
native of the same, having been born Octo- 
ber 25, 1823, in Buffalo township. 
John McWilliams, his grandfather, a native of 
Ireland, when twelve years of age immigrated, in 
1703, in company with two brothers — David and 
William — to America, taking up their first resi- 
dence in New Castle, Del. Here they remained 
some time, and then came to Washington county, 
where they made their permanent home in Buffalo 
township, on "Lion's Bush," a tract of land 
granted on a Virginia certificate, and surveyed 
September 19, 1785. During the early part of 
their settlement they were much troubled by the 
Indians, many times having to flee to the nearest 
blockhouse for safety, and they never thought of 
going from home, even to church, without their 
trusty rifles. The farm on which they had set- 
tled was wild, and all the improvements thereon 
had to lie made by the ceaseless labor of the family. 
While yet a young man, John McWilliams mar- 
ried Jane, daughter of Robert Taylor, an early 
settler of the county, and the founder of Taylors- 
town, and the following are the names and dates 
of birth of the children born to them: Mary, May 
29, 1781; Martha, October 8, 1783; Wallace, De- 
cember 2, 1785; John. December 1, 1788; Sarah, 
December 19, 17S9; Jean, November 18, 1791; 
Margaret, November 29, 1793; Elizabeth, Decem- 
ber 29. 1795; Margaret, March 31, 1798; and Han- 
nah, February 3, 1800. The family were mem- 
bers of the Presbyterian Church at Upper Buffalo, 
in which Mr. McWilliams was an elder for years; 
in politics he was a Democrat. Grandfather Mc- 
Williams died October 8. 1837; the grandmother 
about 1845. 

Wallace McWilliams, father of subject, was born 
in Buffalo township, this county, and received his 



education at the primitive schools of the neighbor 
hood. On April 6, 1819, he married Nancy, 
daughter of James Cleland, a native of Maryland, 
and the children born to them were John, Eliza- 
beth (wife of John Flack), Jonathan and Jane 
(wife of W. S. Caldwell). The father of this 
family died June 20, 1800, the mother August 24, 
1804. Mr. McWilliams was a prominent Demo- 
crat in his day, and for many years was a leading 
man in his party, holding several positions of trust 
in both township and county at various times; he 
was one of the board of commissioners appointed 
by the court for the purchase of the Washington 
County Poor Farm. In 1830 he was nominated 
and elected a member of the State Legislature, 
and re-elected for the ensuing term; in 1841 he 
was again elected to the position. He was a 
presidential elector in 1830, when Van Buren was 
elected President. In the militia of the day he 
took a lively interest, and was one time major- 
general of the forces in Washington and Greene 
counties. He was a consistent member and pow- 
erful supporter of the Presbyterian Church, and 
was a progressive, loyal citizen, greatly interested 
in the cause of education in his locality, serving 
many years on the school board. 

Jonathan McWilliams was reared from earliest 
boyhood to the arduous duties of farm life, his 
winter months being for a few years devoted to at- 
tending the subscription and common schools of 
the neighborhood. On October 20, 1857, he was 
married to Z. \\\, daughter of William McCleese, 
of Chester county, Penn., and the young couple 
afterward remained on the McWilliams home place 
till 1871, in which year they came to Claysville, 
where they have since resided. They have no 
children. They are members of the Presbyterian 
Church, and inpolitics Mr. McWilliams is a lifelong 
Democrat. He has been a farmer all his days, but 
is now living retired, having accumulated a satis 
factory competence. Like his father, he is pro- 
gressive in the extreme, and in the management of 
schools it can safely be said that there is no one 
more zealous, active or useful in the community. 



d | AMES COOPER, one of the oldest residents 
of Franklin township, is a native of the same, 
having been born in that locality, April 18, 
1817. His father, Stephen Cooper, was also 
born in Franklin township, and his grand- 
father, Zebulon Cooper, was a native of New Jersey, 
which had long been the home of the family. Zebu- 
lon Cooper was married to Mary White (a native of 
Long Island), and soon afterward came to Pennsyl- 
vania, where he erected a log cabin, and commenced 
to establish a home in the forests of Washington 
county. The following children were born to this 
pioneer couple: Susanna, born July 22,1770; Zebu- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



553 



Ion, born October 28, 1778; Elizabeth, born April 
29,1781 ; Mary, bom July 18,1783; John, born Jan- 
uary 11, 1786; Silvanus, born December 27, 1787; 
Jerusha, born October 17,1789; Stephen, born Jan- 
nary 26, 1792; Ephraiin, born June 7, 1794; Eunice, 
born July 18, 1795, and Hannah, born November 
17, 1798. Mr. Cooper was a strong advocate of the 
principles embodied in the Whig party. He was 
■one of the earliest Presbyterians of Franklin town- 
ship, and took a deep interest in the religious wel- 
fare of the community. He and his wife resided 
on the farm until their death. 

Stephen Cooper grew to manhood in Franklin 
township, Washington couuty, on the farm of his 
father, and shared in the many privations of 
pioneer life. He received a limited school educa- 
tion, and on March 22, 1816, was uuited in marriage 
with Hannah, daughter of James Bane, and their 
children were: James, Lavina, William, Charlotte, 
Rebecca. Amasa, Josiah, Lewis W. , Sophia, Stephen, 
Phebe, Ellen and David. After his marriage Mr. 
Cooper settled on the farm where the remainder of 
his life was spent, and which he improved with the 
aid of his sons. He was interested in all ques- 
tions pertaining to the growth and improvement of 
the township, and was a member of the Whig party, 
afterward becoming a Republican. He died in 
1880, and his wife rests by his side. 

James Cooper remained on the home farm in 
Franklin township during his earlier years, and on 
January 6, 1840, was married to Harriet, daughter 
of Ezra Young, of New Jersey. After his marriage 
Mr. Cooper settled on the farm which is his present 
home. To this union the following children were 
born: Ann E.,John W., Warren, Addison and 
Lewis. The mother died in 1849, and Mr. Cooper 
was afterward married to Susan, daughter of Harry 
Vau Kirk, an early resident of Washington county, 
and their children are: Henry, Morris, Marion, 
Charles P., Bryant, Jane and Mary. Mr. Cooper 
has made many improvements on his farm. In 
politics he was formerly a Whig, and since the 
formation of that party has been a Republican. 
Although he has never accepted a political office, 
he is deeply interested in the progress of his party. 
In religion he has been a member of the Cumber- 
land Presbyterian Church for many years. 




^ILLIAM HAZLETT, a prominent and pro- 
gressive agriculturist, and a worthy rep- 
resentative of one of the oldest and best- 
known families of Franklin township, is a 
native of the same, born March 6, 18 19. 
The paternal ancestry were English, Samuel 
Hizlett, grandfather of our subject, having been 
a native of the " land that bears a well-known 
name," whence early in life he moved to Ireland. 
Here he married AnnWhite, a daughter of Erin, and 



shortly afterward emigrated to America, making 
their first home in the New World near Baltimore, 
Md., where he followed carpentering, and where 
were born to them two children — William and 
Mary. About 1778 they set out with their lit- 
tle family on a journey to Pennsylvania, on 
horseback, accompanied by a slave named "Jingo," 
and a convict whose " time ' ' had been purchased by 
Mr. Hazlett. Slowly the party wended their way 
over the rough roads, until they finally reached 
Washington county, and here they made a halt 
near where is now the farm occupied by A. O. 
Day, in Franklin township, being among the first 
to settle in the township. Here their first dwell- 
ing was an old abandoned log cabiu, with no floor 
save mother earth, and here they had to make a 
clearing for their farm — the men chopping down 
the forest trees, while the grandmother dug up the 
briars and other uuderbrush. They afterward 
learned that the family who had previously occu- 
pied this old cabin had been murdered by Indians. 
For the first year the young Hazlett colony raised 
but little on their small clearing, and their chief 
article of food was hominy, and such other provis- 
ions as they may have brought with them; they had 
to bring salt from Baltimore on horseback. Their 
nearest neighbors were a long way removed, and 
consequently they had but few visitors, except it 
might be a prowling Indian or wolf; on one occa- 
sion a couple of rattlesnakes entered their cabin, 
and coiled themselves up for warmth on the stones 
on which the tire had been burning. After a time 
the family built and moved into the house where 
now dwells the subject of this sketch. In Wash- 
ington county six more children were born to the 
pioneer Samuel Hazlett, viz.: Elizabeth, Ellen, 
Nancy, Ruth, James and Samuel. The grand- 
father died several years ago, the grandmother at 
the age of ninety-six years, when the grandson, 
William, was a lad of some twelve or fourteen years. 
Samuel Hazlett, father of William, was born in 
1790, in Franklintownship, Washington Co.,Penn., 
and received his education at the subscription 
schools of the neighborhood. He followed agri- 
cultural pursuits on the old homestead all his life, 
and died August 28, 1872, aged eighty-two years, 
honored and respected by all. He was a leading 
member of the Presbyterian Church, and in poli- 
tics was a sound Democrat. He was twice mar- 
ried — first time to Rebecca, daughter of Arthur 
Hamilton, a native of Ireland, and she bore him 
children as follows: Elsa, William (subject), Ann 
(in Allegheny county), Elizabeth, Caroline (in 
Washington county) and Charlotte. This wife 
dying, Samuel Hazlett was afterward united in 
marriage with Jemima Forsyth, a native of Frank- 
lin township, and the children born to this mar- 
riage were Samuel J. (deceased), Isaac, John, 
James, Josephine (wife of John Finley) and Ruth 



554 



1 1 r A SHIN G TON COUNTY. 



E., all living in Fayette county, Penn., except 
John, who is a resident of Aurwell township, this 
county. The mother of these children died in 1870. 
William Hazlett was reared to agricultural pur- 
suits on the home place, a few weeks in winter 
time, during his boyhood, being spent at the 
schools of the neighborhood, although many a 
winter's day did he thresh with a flail. On Octo- 
ber 29, 1844, he was married to Margaret C, 
daughter of Joshua Dickerson, and the children 
born to them were Joshua (a physician in Vander- 
bilt, Fayette county), Samuel and Maggie (both 
deceased), Rebecca (Mrs. Lewis Hamilton, in Mus- 
kingum county, Ohio), Addison (on a farm), Matilda 
(Mrs. William McClenathan, in Amwell township), 
William (on a farm), Samuel Lewis (on the home 
farm), and James (deceased). On April 21, 1863, 
the mother died, and the father afterward married 
Comfort A. West, of Cadiz, Ohio. In 1852 Mr. 
Hazlett settled on the home farm, where the family 
now reside. He was formerly a Whig, and since 
the formation of the party has been an active Repub- 
lican, his first Presidential vote being cast for Will- 
iam H. Harrison. He has always taken a lively in- 
terest in the prosperity of his county and township, 
especially in educational matters, and for twenty- 
five years he has held the office of school director; 
he has also been supervisor of his township. For 
many years Mr. Hazlett has been a member of the 
Presbyterian Church of Upper Ten-Mile, and one 
of its leading and most substantial supporters. 
His farm is situated seven miles from Washington, 
and comprises 1 50 acres, while the farm on which 
his sous Addison and William are living has 150 
acres. Mr. Hazlett has been a hard worker all his 
life, and enjoyed good health until 1891, when he 
had an attack of the "grippe," from which he has 
not yet completely recovered. 



JOHN MOODY, an energetic young agricult- 
urist of Robinson township, Washington 
county, is of Irish descent, and traces his lin- 
eage to one, Joseph Moody, a native of Ire- 
land. Joseph Moody came to America in 
early manhood, first settling in Washington county, 
Penn. In 1812 he moved to Jefferson county, 
Ohio, where he died. 

David Mood}', a son of Joseph, was born in 
Washington county, Penn., but, when yet a boy, 
moved with his parents to Jefferson county, Ohio, 
where he grew to manhood. Returning to his na- 
tive county in Penusylvania, he was married to 
Margaret, daughter of John Flanegin, a native of 
Ireland, and three children were born to them, 
viz. : John, Margaret and Jane. 

John Moody (father of subject) was born in 
Washington county, Penn. He learned the cabi- 
net maker's trade, and afterward followed under- 



taking, being now engaged in agricultural pursuits. 
He has served his township twenty years as justice 
of the peace. He was united in marriage with 
Margaret Derstine, of Allegheny county, daughter 
of Benjamin Derstine, a prominent business man 
of Sewickley, Allegheny county. John and Mar- 
garet (Derstine) Moody have sis children, namely: 
John, Albert, Stella, Harry, James and an infant 
sou. 

John Moody was born in Clinton, Allegheny Co., 
Penn., and was reared to manhood on the home 
farm ; he attended several terms at the academv at 
Sewickley, Allegheny county. He was married to 
Miss Agnes M. , daughter of John M. Stewart, who 
was also born in Clinton, Allegheny county. The 
young people began wedded life on a farm in their 
native county, soon afterward moving to Washing- 
ton county, Penn. Three children have been born 
to this union : Estelle, John and Ralph. Mr. 
Moody has ninety-two acres of good farm land; 
in politics he is a Democrat, and has served his 
township as justice of the peace. In religious faith 
he is connected with the Robinson United Presby- 
terian Church. 

Albert Moody, son of John and Margaret (Der- 
stine) Moody, was born in Clinton, Allegheny Co., 
Penn. He was married to Miss Martha E. Hutch- 
ison, daughter of James aud Susan Hutchison, of 
Washington county, Penn., and one child has been 
born to this union, .Susan Margaret. 

Harry Moody, son of John and Margaret (Der- 
stine) Moody, was born in Clinton, Allegheny Co., 
Penn., and was married to Miss Maud Burns, 
daughter of John S. and Annie Burns, of Alle- 
gheny county. 



1 OHN E. STEWART, for many years a 
leading and representative agriculturist of 
f Mt. Pleasant township, now a resident of 
the borough of Washington, is a native of 
Allegheny county, born in Fiudlev town- 
ship, April 5, 1842. 

James Stewart, his great-grandfather, was born 
in Dauphin county, Penn., April 25, 1754, and 
August 25, 1779, there married Margaret Mc- 
Cowen, a native of the same county, born Febru- 
ary 19, 1759. They settled near Clinton, in that 
township, their nearest neighbors at the time be- 
ing — to the north, seven miles distant, to the south, 
four and one-half miles. Janus Stewart took up a 
large tract of land, where he passed the remainder 
of his days, dying July 21, 1821, at the age of 
sixty-seven years; his wife had passed away July 
5, 1816, at the age of fifty-seven years. They 
were the parents of children as follows: James, 
twice married, first to Elizabeth Dickson, after- 
ward to Isabella Gladden; John (of whom mention 
is made further on); Richard, married to Mary 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



557 



Stewart; Thomas, twice married, first to Isabella 
Browu, afterward to Eleanor Cherry; Joseph, mar- 
ried to Mary Ewing; Margaret, married to Josiah 
Guy; Jane, married to Matthew McCoy; Eleanor, 
married to James Simpson; Ann, married to Will- 
iam Guy; Mary, married to James Moore; and 
Sarah, married to Henry Cowan, most of whom 
lived and died in Allegheny county. 

Of this family, John (grandfather of subject), 
born June 4, 1780, married Elizabeth Glass, and 
settled on the farm in Allegheny county, on which 
his son, James, and grandson, John E. (subject), 
were born. Here he died in 1846, aged sixty-six 
years, leaving a widow and six children, the for- 
mer of whom was called from earth in October, 
1869, at the age of eighty years. Their children 
were: James, born July 11, 1809; Robert, burn 
August 17, 1811; Margaret, born May 31, 1814; 
Jane, born November 15, 1816; John M., born 
May 21, 1819; and Elizabeth, born 1812. Of 
these, Robert died when a young man; Margaret 
married John Smiley, of Washington county, and 
is now a widow living in Burgettstown; Jane mar- 
ried Henry Aten, and is now a widow, with resi- 
dence in Allegheny county; John M., a farmer, 
died July 3, 1881, in Allegheny county; Elizabeth 
married Thomas Armor, of Allegheny county, and 
died in July, 1890. 

James Stewart grew to manhood on the old 
home farm, where he spent his entire life. On 
October 8, 1840, he was married to Miss Rachel 
P., daughter of Edward Cherry, of Washington 
county, and they became the parents of the follow- 
ing interesting family: John E. (subject); Sarah 
J., married to Samuel Aten, of Wyandot county, 
Ohio; Amanda E., married to George Jardine, and 
now living near Clinton, Allegheny county; Maggie 
E., injured by a fall when three years old, and 
permanently crippled in her lower limbs (she was 
born June 3, 1855, and died December 5, 1873); 
Rankin M., an agriculturist, living on the old 
home farm in Allegheny county; and Mattie A., 
unmarried, having her home with her brother Ran- 
kin M. The father died October 10, 1882, the 
mother on December 13, same year. Mr. Stewart 
was not an active politician, nevertheless held vari- 
ous local public offices of trust; a member of the 
Presbyterian Church, he was an elder in same, as 
were also nearly all the older members of the Stew- 
art family. He was a prominent man in his town- 
ship, and took an active interest in all local matters 
tending to the advancement and welfare of the com- 
munity. 

John E. Stewart remained at the parental home 
until he was twenty- nine years of age, and received 
a common-school education, necessarily somewhat 
limited, as being the eldest in the family he had to, 
•early in life, commence in the farm work, assisting 



his father, who was severely injured in one foot, 
and had ill health for a few years. After his mar- 
riage in 1871 he removed to Mt. Pleasant town- 
ship, this county, and settled on a farm which he 
had purchased and which he still owns. Here 
they remained till November, 1891, when they 
moved into the borough of Washington, where 
they still make their home, having purchased a 
residence on West Main street. They have no 
children. Mr. Stewart is a Democrat, and while 
in Mt. Pleasant township, he served as school di- 
rector, supervisor and justice of the peace; in 1890 
he was elected county commissioner, resigning the 
office of justice of the peace after two years' serv- 
ice. He and his wife are members of the Third 
Presbyterian Church of Washington. His farm, 
which is situated in the northern part of Mt. 
Pleasant township, comprises 14(1 acres of highly 
improved land, and is conceded to be one of the 
finest in the township. 

On August 1<>. 1ST I.Mr. Stewart was married 
to Miss Jennie M. Stewart, who was born May 5, 
1S44, daughter of Joseph Stewart, also of Findley 
township, Allegheny county, but the families are 
in no other way related. Prior to her marriage 
she had been a teacher in her native county. Her 
grandfather, Samuel Stewart, came from Dauphin 
county, Penn., to Allegheny county in an early 
day. 

He was married in Dauphin county to Jane 
Patterson, who lived to be ninety seven years of 
age, dying in the fall of 1867, her husband pass- 
ing away in 1837. Their children were James, 
Robert, Hugh. Flora, Nancy, Margaret, William, 
Samuel, Joseph and Uriah, of whom Joseph was 
the father of Mrs. John E. Stewart. He was born 
May 20, 1816, and married Hannah Glass, daugh- 
ter of an early settler of Robinson township, Alle- 
gheny county, and they lived to celebrate their 
golden wedding October 3, 1889. They were the 
parents of children as follows: Samuel G., married 
to Harriet Stoddard; Jennie M. (Mrs. John E. 
Stewart); Olivia M , wife of Albert Aten, of Alle- 
gheny county; William J., married to Maggie Mil- 
ler; John P., married to Lida Plummer; Joseph 
P., single (the last two named are partners in a 
mercantile business in Finleyville, Penn.); Sadie 
A., deceased at the age of about six years; Andrew 
D. , living on the old home farm with his mother, 
and Albert E. , a merchant of Hickman, Allegheny 
county. The father of this family died December 
19, 1892, a member of the Presbyterian Church; 
in early manhood he had associated himself with 
the United Presbyterian Church. The old Stew- 
art homestead where Mrs. Joseph Stewart and her 
son, Andrew D., now reside, is the original tract 
! settled by the family many years ago, never having 
changed hands. 



558 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



TfOSEPH W. ROBB. Among those undaunted 
pioneers who braved the hardships and dan- 
fJJ gers of frontier life to make a home in Wash- 
^* ington county, Joseph Robb (grandfather of 
the present family) and his faithful wife de- 
serve an honored place. Joseph Robb was born 
and reared in Chester county, Peun., and was mar- 
ried to a native of the same State. Soon after 
their union the young couple came to Washington 
county, in 1790, purchasing of the Government and 
moving upon a tract consisting of 400 acres, known 
as the "Omi tract." A log cabin was soon erected 
aud improvements energetically begun by the 
stout-hearted young settler, who often carried salt 
over the mountains on horseback. Time passed on, 
and as the rude uncultivated land was transformed 
into fields of moving grain, the little home took on 
an air of comfort and civilization. Children as 
follows were born to these pioneers: Ebenezer, 
W illiam and John, and as the parents grew weary 
with the weight of years, strong young arms aud 
brave young hearts lifted the burdens of life from 
their shoulders. Joseph Robb was a member and 
elder of the Associate Reformed Church, and in 
politics voted with the Whig party. He died April 
14, 1847, and was buried by the side of his wife in 
the cemetery of Robinson's Run church. 

Ebenezer Robb, the eldest son of Joseph, was 
born July 9, 1S03, and was reared and educated on 
the home farm. On January 26, 1836, he was 
united in marriage with Eliza Wallace, who was 
born near Pigeon creek, daughter of Robert Wal- 
lace. The young people made a permanent home 
in Robinson township, this county, where he fol- 
lowed farming and stock raising. Five children 
were born to their union, namely: William and 
Joseph (both now deceased); Robert (a prominent 
business man in Allegheny City, and is an elder in 
the Westminster Church of that place); Joseph W. 
and Mary E. (wife of Joseph Reynolds). The 
father of this family was formerly a member of the 
Associate Reformed Church of Robinson's Run, 
and afterward joined the United Presbyterian 
Church at McDonald, serving as an elder in both 
Societies. In politics he was originally a Whig, 
afterward a Republican. He took an active inter- 
est in educational matters, and served as justice of 
the peace two terms. Mr. Robb died in August, 
L884, having been preceded to the grave by his 
wife in 1877, and their remains rest in the cemetery 
at Robinson's Run. 

Joseph W. Robb was born May IS, 1851, on the 
old homestead in Robinson township. His element- 
ary education was received at the common schools 
of the neighborhood, and he afterward became a 
student in the Allegheny City Academy. On No- 
vember 27, 1879, Mr. Robb married Rachel Lind- 
Bey, a daughter of William Lindsey, who was born 
in June, 1811, in Mt. Pleasant township, this 



county, where his earlier years were passed. He 
was married to Ann Van Eman, a resident of this 
county, and the young people remained in Mt. 
Pleasant township till 1876, the following children 
being born to their uuion: Sarah, John, Elizabeth, 
Van Eman, Anna, Rebecca, Marguerita, Irene, Rob- 
ert and Rachel (Mrs. Robb). Mr. Lindsey was an 
extensive dealer in stock, and in politics voted with 
the Republican party. He was a member of the 
Presbyterian Church. He died in 1883; his widow 
is yet living with her children. 

Joseph and Rachel (Lindsey) Robb settled on the 
paternal homestead, where their children have been 
born as follows: Edmund E., born August 31. 
1881; Anna Ethel, born September 2, 1883, died 
January 7, 1885; Mary Margretta, born August 9, 
18S6; Laura Ellen, born October 24, 1888, and 
Joseph Lloyd, born December 19, 1892. Mr. Robb 
is an active Republican, has served his township in 
various capacities, and has now entered upon his 
second term as school director. He and his family 
are members of the United Presbyterian Church at 
McDonald, in which he is an elder. 



*T~\ OBERT BAMFORD, a practical and pros- 
L«rfv perous agriculturist of Robinson township, 

r V. is a native of Washington county. 
JJ = Robert Bamford, his father, was born in 
v 1824, in Ireland, aud in 1848 came with a 

party of young people to Pittsburgh, Perm. He 
had learned the blacksmith's trade, which he 
followed about eighteen months in Pittsburgh. On 
March 8, 1851, he was united in marriage with 
Sarah G. , daughter of David and Martha (Adams) 
Gordon, both natives of Ireland. David Gordon 
was first married to Sarah Gardener, who bore 
him eight children, all now deceased. After the 
death of his first wife, Mr. Gordon was married to 
Martha Adams, who had eight children, but two 
of whom are yet living: Sarah G. (wife of Robert 
Bamford) and Eliza (wife of John Hanley), of 
Belfast, Ireland. The father died in 1838, in 
Ireland, his wife following him in 1852. 

Robert and Sarah G. (Gardener) Bamford were 
the parents of four children, namely: David G. (a 
miller in Midway, Robinson township), born Feb- 
ruary 20, 1852; William, born November 16, 1854 
(farming in this county); Robert, born February 
16, 1857; and Mary, born February 2, 1859 (living 
at home). In 1853 Mr. Bamford moved to Nobles- 
town, Allegheny county, working there at his trade 
for about two years. He then moved to Bulger, 
this county, remaining about four years, thence to 
Primrose, where he resided four years, continuing 
to follow his trade during these changes of location. 
In 1863 he bought a farm of fifty-three acres 
(where his son Robert is now living), in Robinson 
township, and still followed his trade. He afterward 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



559 



added 182£ acres to the farm, and became an exten- 
sive dealer in stock, accumulating a large amount of 
property by combining his agricultural duties 
with his trade, which he followed thirty-three 
years. 

He voted with the Democratic party, and was 
much interested in educational matters, having been 
school director; he was also one of the directors of 
the Oakdale Mutual Fire Insurance Company. He 
was a member and trustee of the U. P. Church 
for many years. He died January 3, 1887, and 
his widow is yet living with her son on the home 
farm. She is a member of the United Presby- 
terian Church. 

Robert Bamford was reared on the home farm, 
and educated in the common schools of the neigh- 
borhood. On February 16, 1887, he was united 
in marriage with Jennie M. Donaldson, of this 
county, who was born August 20, 1856, and was a 
daughter of John M. Donaldson. John M. 
Donaldson was a son of Andrew, whose father, 
James Donaldson, emigrated from Ireland at an 
early day, locating in Washington county, where 
children were born and reared as follows: Thomas, 
Andrew, John, Richard, and four daughters, 
whose names are unknown. 

Andrew Donaldson was born in this county, 
being educated in the rate schools of the period, 
which were built of rough-hewn logs, and fur- 
nished in the most primitive manner. In early 
life he was married to Jane, daughter of John 
McBurney, and they settled on a farm situated 
between Bavington and North Star, where the 
following children were born to them: Sally, Jane, 
Mary Ann, Elizabeth (deceased), Esther (deceased), 
James, John M. , Margaret, Thomas and an unnamed 
infant. Of these children seven are now liv- 
ing. 

Mr. Donaldson was an active Democrat, and in 
• religion was first united with the Associate Re- 
formed Church of Robinson township, which 
afterward became the United Presbyterian Society. 
He died in 1843. John M. Donaldson was born 
July 25, 1831, on the home farm in this county. 
In 1855 he was married to Martha M. Bigger, and 
they came to the farm where they are now living, 
which, together with 109 acres presented by Mr. 
Bigger, forms a good place of 279 acres. The 
following children were born to their union: Jane 
M. (Mrs. Bamford), Andrew, Thomas B. , Sarah 
O, Mary E., Emmett T. (deceased), Elizabeth 
H. , James W. , Margaret B. , Richard M. , and 
Holland H. 

Robert and Jennie M. (Donaldson) Bamford 
have one son, John D., born March 27, 1888. 
Both Mr. and Mrs. Bamford are earnest members 
of the Centre United Presbyterian Church, in 
which he serves as trustee. 



l(OHN G. JOHNSON, a successful business 
I man of Cross Creek township, is another ex- 
t J ample of what patience, industry and enter- 
^^" prise can accomplish. He is a son of John 
Johnson, of Canonsburg, Penn., whose father 
was Richard Johnson. The latter was a native of 
County Down, Ireland, and immigrated to America 
in early manhood, settling near Canonsburg, this 
county, in about 1800. He was married to a Miss 
Bradford, a resident of Canonsburg, and children 
were born to them as follows: George, David (a 
resident of Steubenville, Ohio), Mary (Mrs. Thomas 
Allison), Elizabeth (widow of John Stockton), John 
(living in Canonsburg) and William (a physician). 

John Johnson was born in 1806, on the farm 
near Canonsburg now occupied by R. V. Johnson, 
and was reared to manhood on the home place. 
He was married to Miss Rebecca VanEman, of 
Cecil township, Washington county, a daughter of 
Joseph VanEman, who was a prominent farmer of 
that vicinity. After their marriage the young people 
settled onthe home place, where their three chil- 
dren were born, namely: R. V., a farmer and civil 
engineer of North Strabane township, this county; 
J. B. , a farmer and dairyman of Chartiers town- 
ship, this county; and John G., the subject of our 
present sketch. Shortly before his death, which oc- 
curred October '9, 1888, Mr. Johnson retired to 
Canonsburg, there passing his declining years. 

John G. Johnson was born Nobember 13, 1845. 
on the old home farm near Canonsburg, where his 
boyhood was spent. He attended the academy at 
Beaver, Penn., afterward beginning an active busi- 
ness life as a farmer and stock dealer, following 
that vocation until within the past few years, and 
making a trip to Pittsburgh with stock nearly every 
week. In June, 1874, he was united in marriage 
with Miss Annie K. Morrison, of Chartiers town- 
ship, this county, and four children have blessed 
their union, namely: George L. , William M., 
John (deceased in infancy) and Earnest. Mr. John- 
son owns 166 acres of good land, two houses and 
lots in Canonsburg, a storeroom and dwelling, and 
three good houses in Burgettstown. In politics he 
has been a stanch Republican, although never car- 
ing to take an active part in the turmoil of political 
warfare. Mr. Johnson is now living in a beautiful 
home, situated at the eastern extremity of Cross 
Creek village, and is enjoying the fruits of a life 
of industry. 



THOMAS BORLAND McCORKLE, retired 
farmer, Canonsburg, late of Cross Creek 
township, was born July 7, 1835, on the old 
farm of his father, John McCorkle, where 
his grandfather settled in 1810. 
The paternal great-grandfather of our subject 



560 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



emigrated from the North of Ireland to Pennsyl- 
vania, settling east of the mountains at an early 
date, probably in Adams county, as his son Thomas 
was born in that county. This Thomas McOorkle 
came to Washington county, and November 7, 1810, 
purchased the old homestead farm of something 
over 432 acres. He was born February 12, 1759, 
in Adams county, Penn., and died on his farm in 
Cross Creek township May 25, 1843, at the age of 
eighty-four years, three mouths and thirteen days. 
His father, Robert McCorkle, came to Washington 
county, and died on the son's farm June 26, 1822, 
in his ninetieth year, in Cross Creek township, and 
he was buried in West Middletown graveyard, 
Hopewell township, this county. Thomas McCorkle 
and his wife, Esther (Terrell) McCorkle, were 
members of the Associate Reformed Church in 
West Middletown, and he was a ruling elder in the 
same for many years. He always followed farm- 
ing, and was a man of fine principle. Esther 
McCorkle died December 12, 1839, aged sixty -five 
years. Their children were as follows: Robert, 
born October 26, IT'.Hi, died when a young man, 
unmarried; Margaret, born November 22. 1798, 
married Thomas Ritchey, o*f Hopewell township; 
Frances, born February 7, 1800, died unmarried; 
John, born June 4, 1803, married Mary McCorkle, 
of Somerset township; Jane, born 'September 14, 
1807, married Charles Phillis, of Claysville, Ohio; 
Thomas, born March 24, 1814, married Margaret 
Welch, who is now a widow and is living in Bur- 
gettstown, Washington county. 

John and Mary (McCorkle) McCorkle were mar- 
ried January 14, 1834. She was born February 
22, 1810. They were both members of the Asso- 
ciate Reformed Church of West Middletown, in 
which he was a ruling elder. He held various 
offices of trust, and was a man of more than ordi- 
nary executive ability and intelligence, serving as 
county supervisor, school director and as executor, 
administrator and guardian for many estates. It 
was through his persistent efforts that the post- 
office, Woodrow, in Cross Creek township, was 
established. He was a member of an old militia 
company. Mr. ami Mrs. McCorkle had one child, 
Thomas Borland, our subject. The mother died 
May 25, 1836, and May 12, 1842, the father 
married Miss Mary Hay, who was born October 13, 
1814, on the old homestead farm of her father in 
Chartiers township, this county, a daughter of 
David and Mary (McCullough) Hay. Of this union 
no children were born. Mrs. McCorkle is still 
living in West Middletown, and is a member of 
West Middletown U. P. Church. She is descended 
from the Hays of Scotland. 

Thomas B. McCorkle was educated at the com- 
mon schools of Cross Creek township, known as 
" Bushy Rock," and when of proper age learned 
farming with his father. On June 21, 1871, he 



was united in marriage with Miss Asenath M. 
Nevin, who was born November 18, 1847, in Beaver 
county, Penn., on her father's farm near Sheffield, 
a daughter of George and Eliza A. (Harper) Nevin, 
the former of whom was a son of John and Mar- 
garet (Murray) Nevin, and both descendants of 
Scotch-Presbyterian ancestry. George Nevin was 
a native of Washington county, Penn., where he 
was reared to agricultural pursuits, at which he 
worked a short time, and then opened a store at 
Sheffield, Beaver county. His wife p was born at 
Frankfort Springs, Beaver Co., Penn., a daughter 
of Archibald and Mary (Hay) Harper, the former 
of whom was a miller at Frankfort Springs (where 
he owned a mill), the latter a native of Cecil town- 
ship, Washington county, and born on her father's 
farm. She was a daughter of John and Ann 
(Burns) Hay, who were born and married in Scot- 
land, where some of their children were also born. 
They came to Washington county at an early day. 
settled on Miller's run, in Cecil township, and 
sleep their last sleep in Oak Grove cemetery in 
Chartiers township. Mrs. Ann (Burns) Hay was 
a full cousin to Robert Burns, the poet; her hus- 
band, John Hay, was descended from the Hay 
family of Scotland, whose coat of arms, etc., appear 
in "Burke's Peerage." To Thomas B. and Ase- 
nath M. (Nevin) McCorkle have been born three 
children, two now living: Mary L. and John T. R. 
Politically our subject is a Democrat, and has filled 
various local offices of trust. He and his wife are 
members of the U. P. Church, at Canonsburg, and 
he is the owner of two. farms in Cross Creek town 
ship, comprising 270 acres and 144 acres, respect- 
ively; he also owns a mill in the same township, 
known as the Buckeye Flouring Mill. Mr. Mc- 
Corkle is recognized as one of the leading upright 
and moral citizens of Washington county, and 
ranks high among its representative and progress- 
ive agriculturists. 



dfOHN MILLER DAY was born in Morris 
township, Washington Co., Penn., October 
i 24, 182], a great-grandson of Samuel Day, 
who, in or about the year 1755, came from 
New Jersey to Pennsylvania and took up land 
in Morris township, this county, where he fanned 
successfully. He was the father of four sons: 
Daniel. Samuel, Joseph and Benjamin, and one 
daughter, Joanna. 

Daniel Day, the grandfather of subject, remained 
on the same tract of land which his father had 
taken up until his death, which occurred in 1811. 
He left six sons: Calvin, William, John, Samuel, 
Stephen and Cephas, and three daughters, Abigail, 
Ellenor and Electy. John followed his father on 
the farm, and retained the old right to the early 
settlement. He was married September 2, 1813, 






jjj#§?bs 




WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



563 



by Rev. C. Dodd, to Sarah Miller, of Amwell town- 
ship, Washington Co., Penn., and to their union 
were born eleven children: Eliza, Mary, Sarah, J. 
Miller, Daniel, Harvey, Annie, Abigail, Cyrus, and 
Jessie and Meribah (twins). Of these, Eliza (de- 
ceased wife of George Wolf) resided in Nineveh, 
Greene Co., Penn. ; Mary (deceased wife of John 
Brownlee) resided in Franklin township, this 
county; Sally (deceased wife of Robert Baldwin) 
resided in Morris township, this count} 7 ; Daniel 
has been married twice, and resides in Canonsburg, 
Washington Co., Penn. (his first wife was Mary 
Bates, of Steubenville, Ohio; his present wife was 
Etta Johns, of Washington, Washington county ); 
Harvy, living in Lincoln, Neb., was first married 
to Caroline McCollnm, and afterward to Mrs. Mary 
Harris, of Wheeling, W. Va. ; Annie (deceased) 
was first married to Elias Conger, and then became 
the wife of Dr. Stross, of Amity, Amwell town- 
ship, this county; Abigail (Mrs. H. C. Swart) re- 
sides near Washington borough; Cyrus, died at the 
age of eight years; Meribah and Jessie (twins) 
died in infancy. 

John Miller Day, our subject, resides on the old 
homestead, first owned by his great .-grandfather. 
He received his primary education at the old time 
subscription schools, which were held chiefly in 
abandoned log dwellings, one of these being very 
near the Day residence. (It is safe to say that the 
then youth must have been full of the mirth and 
good cheer which now characterize his riper 
years). 

In the course of time these early colleges gave 
way to modern innovations, regulated and gov- 
erned by school laws. Mr. Day was married Janu- 
ary 19, 1843, to Miss Elizabeth Hanua, eldest 
daughter of John V. Hanna, of Morris township. 
This union was followed by seven children: Mar- 
tha Maria, born July 7, 1S44, married to John N. 
Weir, of Franklin township; Sarah Ann, born No- 
vember 7, 1845, died January 24, 1848; John Mil- 
ton, born August 26, 1S47, married, October 12, 
1871, to Margaret Weir, of Franklin township; 
Elsie Jane, born September 6, 18411. united in 
marriage, January 18, 1882, with William Ash- 
brook, of East Finley township; George Hamilton, 
born April 25, 1852, died October 10, 1854; Hugh 
Allison, born April 24, 1854, married, April 9, 
1891, to Annie Andrews, of Morris township; Mary 
Elizabeth, born June 10, 1856, married September 
12, 1878, to Allen J. Mowl, and now living in 
West Bethlehem township, this county. Mrs. 
Day, mother of these children, died August 4, 
I s 72, and was buried at Prosperity, this county. 
On May 20, 1874, Mr. Day married Mrs. Mary 
(Wise) McKanna, of West Bethlehem township, 
this county, a daughter of Joseph Wise and widow 
of George R. McKanna. Mrs. Day was the 
mother of two children by her first marriage: 



Emma J., wife of James D. Tilery, of Chicago, 111., 
and Frank B., residing in Pittsburgh, Penn. 

When the Day family first came to Washington 
county, an old fort stood in the southeastern part 
of Franklin township; and our subject remembers 
having his grandmother tell of how she and others 
would frequently have to take shelter in the fort 
from the Indians, when they were making un- 
friendly visits to the homes of the settlers; but the 
old fort has long since disappeared, and the Indians 
no longer disturb the sweet repose of the now hap- 
py citizens. The Days have, from the very first, 
been successful farmers and business men, and our 
subject is no exception, for he is now the owner of 
350 acres of land, very rich and fertile, in a high 
state of cultivation, and improved with the very 
best buildings, all of which Mr. Day has had the 
pleasure of putting up under his own inspection, 
except one old barn, which remains as a relic of 
the past. (The old mansion built by Grandfather 
Day still stands on the old foundation, has been 
repaired, and is now occupied by Hugh Day, son 
of our subject). In addition to general agriculture, 
Mr. Day is extensively interested in wool growing. 

Our subject has been a lifelong member and a 
liberal supporter of Upper Ten Mile Presbyterian 
Church, in which he has received the marked con- 
fidence of his fellow-members in being elected 
deacon, an office he has held for many years. Po- 
litically he is a Democrat, and has several times 
been elected to the office of justice of the peace, 
but has always declined serving. He was elected 
a director of the Poor Farm, serving from 1866 to 
1869. 

We can not close this short history of our sub- 
ject without expressing gratitude that our friend 
has been spared to a good old age. And now, 
while living in borrowed time, his genial face is 
still lighted up with sunny cheerfulness, which 
makes his company sought after, aud his presence 
in the home gatherings a delight. [Written by a 
friend of the family. 

ILLIAM CALDWELL, sou of Samuel 
Caldwell, was born July 29, 1830, in Pe- 
ters township, Washington Co., Penn. 
Samuel Caldwell was born in 1782, in Dau- 
phin county, eastern Pennsylvania, and came with 
his parents to Allegheny county when but a child. 
He served an apprenticeship as a tailor, but after 
completing the trade was obliged to abandon it on 
account of poor health. He then began farming, 
and in 1818 .bought a farm in Peters township, 
Washington county, to which he moved, eventu- 
ally becoming a prosperous agriculturist. In pol- 
itics he was originally a Whig, then a Republican, 
and served for years as a member of the school 
board. In religion he was first identified with the 
Union Church, afterward uniting with the U. P. 




564 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Society, then known as the Bridge Church, now 
called the Canonsburg U. P. Church, to which he 
was a liberal contributor. In early life he was 
married to Elizabeth, daughter of James Gilland, 
of Allegheny county, Penn., and the following 
children were bom to this union: James (de- 
ceased), Ann (wife of John Charlton), Jane, Eliza 
(Mrs. Thomas D. Weaver), Margaret (married to 
Henry Bennett), Harriet and William. The father 
died in 1856, having been preceded by his wife in 
1841, and both are buried in the Speer Spring 
cemetery. 

William Caldwell was reared and educated in 
Peters township, and on March 12, 1857, was 
united in marriage with Margaret, daughter of 
John and granddaughter of Henry Miller. The 
grandparents were natives of Germany, and immi- 
grated to America in the latter part of the last 
century, locating on the home farm in Chartiers 
township, Washington Co., Penn. Henry Miller 
built one of the first mills for grinding grain, 
which was run by horses. He was a Whig and 
Republican, and in religion was for many years a 
member and elder of the Presbyterian Church at 
Miller's Run. He died February 11, 1845, fol- 
lowed by his wife April 10, of the same year. 
Their children were John, Christia Ann (wife of 
William Bennett) and Nancy (Mrs. Johnson). 

John Miller was born April 24, 1798, on the 
home place in Chartiers township, this county. 
On January 18, 1821, he was married to Margaret 
Jordan, who bore him children as follows: Stew- 
art, Henry, Mary (wife of Thomas Chapman), Ann, 
John, Hugh and Margaret (Mrs. William Caldwell). 
Of these children, Stewart, Mary, Ann and John 
are deceased. The father was a Whig and Repub- 
lican. He was for many years a member and elder 
of the Presbyterian Church at Miller's Run, and 
died on the old place November 17, 1874, Mrs. 
Miller having preceded him November 3, 1873. 
Both parents are buried in the cemetery at Miller's 
Run. After marriage William and Margaret (Mil- 
ler) Caldwell resided on the home place in Peters 
township until 1868, when they removed to the 
Miller homestead, and in 1886 came to their pres- 
ent home in Canonsburg. Three children have 
been born to this marriage, namely: John M., 
Annie E., widow of Thomas I. Charlton, and Ella 
Paretta. Mrs. Charlton is the only one now liv 
iug. Mr. Caldwell is an active worker in the ranks 
of the Republican party, and in religion a member 
of the Chartiers TJ. P. Church. 



LM. MORGAN was born September 18,1853, 
I on the farm in Mt. Pleasant, township which 
I is yet his home, the youngest child of R. M. 
and Mary (Martin) Morgan. The mother 
was born on the farm where Peter Martin is now 



living, and both parents were natives of Chartiers 
township. After their marriage they settled near 
Sugar Grove, this county, and in 1845 located in 
Mt. Pleasant township on the farm now known as 
the Rev. Slater farm, and in 1851 bought the pres- 
ent homestead, a partially improved farm of 210 
acres, which they cleared and cultivated, and on 
which they erected a good brick house and fine 
barn. The farm was originally a portion of the 
George Washington survey. In 1880 the family 
moved to Canonsburg. R. M. Morgan was an ar- 
dent Democrat in politics, serving as supervisor of 
the township, as member of the school board, and 
in various other positions. He and his wife were 
members of the Miller's Run Presbyterian Church, 
in which he was ruling elder for many years. He 
died in January, 1891, having been preceded by 
his wife in March, 1889. Their children were 
Nancy Jane (living in Canonsburg), Emeline (de- 
ceased in 1846), Ellen (deceased in 1872), Anna 
Mary (wife of J. L. Cockins, of Canonsburg). twin 
sons who died in infancy in 1851, Sarah Bell (mar- 
ried to R. D. Hamilton, of Chartiers township) 
and L. M. (a twin of Sarah Bell). 

L. M. Morgan passed his boyhood on the home 
farm, and received his education in the district 
schools of Mt. Pleasant township. On November 
18, 1880, he was united in marriage with Minerva 
Shelley, a native of Jefferson county, Ohio, a 
daughter of David and Jane (White) Shelley, the 
father a native of Jefferson county, Ohio, and the 
mother born in Chartiers township. The parents 
located in Jefferson county, Ohio, many years ago. 
Mr. and Mrs. Morgan settled on the old home- 
stead, containing 210 acres of good land. He is 
an active Democrat, and a member of the school 
board. He and his wife are united with the Mt. 
Pleasant U. P. Church, of which he is a trustee. 
They have had five children, namely: Maud Alice, 
Leroy Shelley, Nina Blanche, Mary E., and one 
deceased in infancv. 



diOHNf MORGAN, a well-known farmer and 
stock raiser of Chartiers township, is a na- 
J tive of the same, born April 20, 1821. He is 
a grandson of Jacob Morgan, who was born 
in Maryland, and in an early day came with 
his wife to Washington county, Penn., locating in 
Chartiers township, where he died. He was a sol- 
dier in the war of 1812. 

John Morgan (sou of Jacob) was born in Mary- 
land, and when a small boy was brought with his 
parents to Chartiers township, Washington Co., 
Penn. He was married in this county to Nancy 
Montgomery, a native of Chartiers township, and 
they began life on a neighboring farm. He was 
deputy sheriff and justice of the peace for many 
years, and was an active worker in the Democratic 



\ 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



565 



party. He died in 1842, and several years later 
was followed by his wife, who had borue him chil- 
dren as follows: Martha Jane (deceased wife of 
Godfrey Cook), Jacob (deceased, married to a 
daughter of Major McCloskey), Robert M. (died in 
1891, was married to Mary Martin), Emma Jaue 
(deceased in 1888 in Tennessee, wife of William 
Cundel), John (whose sketch follows), Nancy Jane 
(Mrs. James Harvey, living in this county), Sam- 
uel P. (residing in Washington borough, Penn.), 
Anna (deceased wife of A. C. Morrow), Rebecca 
(Mrs. J. R. McClosky, of Lawrence, Kans.) and 
Hugh (also living in Kansas). 

John Morgan was born and reared on the farm 
adjoining his present home, receiving his educa- 
tion in the schools of Chartiers township, and as- 
sisting in improving the farm. In 1856 he was 
united in marriage with >3arah Jane, daughter of 
Samuel and Jane (White) Martin. The parents 
located in Chartiers township, this county, where 
the father died September 29, 1864, the mother 
having preceded him over the river March 1, 1835. 
John and Sarah Jane (Martin) Morgan located on 
their present farm in 1860. It contains 129 acres 
of well cultivated land, upon which two good resi- 
dences have been built; he owns considerable 
stock, and carries on general farming. He is in- 
terested in the success of the Democratic party, 
with which he is identified, and he and his wife are 
members of the U. P. Church in Chartiers town- 
ship. Their children are Anna Mary (wife of Jo- 
seph Barry), Belle (married to George Patch, 
Houstonville, Penn.), Samuel M. (married to a 
daughter of Andrew Miller, and living in Chartiers 
township), John H. (residing with his parents), 
Ella Jane, Hattie and Hugh F. 




C. LINDLEY was born April 28, 1847, in 
Morris township, Washington Co., Penn., 
a son of Cephas Lindley, who was also a 
native of Morris township, born March 28, 
1816, and received his education in the schools of 
that period. In early manhood Cephas Lindley 
was married on March 16, 1840, to Miss Anna 
Hanna, a resident of Morris township, and they 
had six children: Mary (Mrs. Smith Day), Louisa 
J. (Mrs. Jacob Baldwin), B. C. (subject of the 
present sketch), Lawson L., Laura J. (Mrs. Rich- 
ard Sargeant) and Sarah A. (Mrs. H. R. Post). 
The mother of this family died January 31, 1859, 
and Mr. Lindley married on November 24, 1864, 
for his second wife, Mary Hackney, who has .no 
children. Mr. Lindley settled in Franklin town- 
ship, Washington county, and was for many years 
engaged in buying and selling stock, becoming quite 
a wealthy man at one time, but reverses followed 
his early success, and swept away the greater part 
of his property. He might have legally retained a 



portion of the wreck, but his fine sense of honor 
would not permit him to reserve any part of that 
which should meet his obligations. Mr. Lindley 
has been a most industrious man, and is highly 
respected by his neighbors. He and his family 
are active members of the Cumberland Presby- 
terian Church. In political opinion he was a Whig, 
and since the organization of the party has been a 
Republican. 

B. C. Lindley passed his youth on the farm, and 
the meager advantages of the country school gave 
him a taste for literature, which he indulges during 
his leisure moments. On February 23, 1871, he 
was united in marriage with Miranda Van Kirk 
Patterson, daughter of J. W. Patterson, and their 
familv consists of the following children: Demas, 
boi Q April 28, 1872; Clyde P., born December 18, 
1877; Anna C.,born December 1, 1880; Mary L., 
born July 20, 1888, and Parmelia E., born Decem- 
ber 29, 1890. After his marriage Mr. Lindley re- 
mained on the home farm some time, and then 
moved to Chartiers township, this county, thence 
to Aniwell township. He afterward came to West 
Bethlehem township, and finally settled on his 
present place, which consists of 194 acres of land, 
known as the Baldwin farm. Mr. Lindley is a 
popular and progressive man. In political opinion 
he is a Republican, and has tilled the position of 
school director seven years. He and his family 
are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian 
Church. 




JLLIAM SMITH, an old and esteemed 
farmer of Independence township, is a 
son of John Smith, who was born in 
L786, in County Fermanagh, Ireland. He 
passed his youth in assisting his father on the home 
farm, and in early manhood was married to Jane 
Graham, who was born in 17811, daughter of Will- 
iam Graham. In 1818 John Smith' with his wife 
and infant son, William, sailed from Cork, Ireland, 
to find a home across the ocean. They landed in 
New York, and immediately proceeded to Inde- 
pendence township, Washington Co., Penn., where 
a brother of Mr. Smith had previously located near 
Buffalo creek. For some time after his arrival in 
Independence township, Mr. Smith worked as a 
farm tenant, but this did not suit his energetic and 
ambitious disposition. In a few years he purchased 
the farm that he had rented on arriving in Penn- 
sylvania, and remained upon it until his death, 
which occurred in 1831. His widow continued to 
reside on the place, which was managed by her sons, 
until her death in 1835. The children born in 
America were as follows: John (a farmer in Inde- 
pendence township), Jane (living on the old home- 
stead with her brother John), Edward (who died 
at the old homestead in his twenty-first year) and 



:,<;<; 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Mary A. (widow of Paul Ralston, of Independence 
township). 

William Smith (the eldest child of John Smith) 
was born December 22, 1817, in Couuty Fermanagh, 
Ireland, being an infant when brough to America 
with his parents. He received a limited education 
at the rate schools, and losing his father when but 
a boy of fourteen years, a heavy burden of care 
necessarily fell upon him as the eldest son. The 
mother died but a few years later, yet still the brave 
boy struggled on, with no one to guide him and no 
assistance but that of the younger children; but 
they managed the farm successfully. On October 
15, 1841), William Smith was married to Margaret 
Haggarty, who was born April 3, 1 818, daughter of 
James Haggarty, an early resident of Independence 
township, and a native of Ireland. After his mar- 
riage Mr. Smith entered mercantile business at 
Dunsfort, Penn. , but soon returned to the farm, 
concluding that after all agriculture was the more 
desirable vocation, and continued to follow it until 
recent years. He is now living a semi-retired life 
in the pleasant home. On October 15, 1890, Mr. 
and Mrs. Smith celebrated their golden wedding, 
and were the recipients of many gifts. In politics 
he was formerly a Whig; he cast his first vote for 
William H. Harrison, and has also voted for his 
grandson, Benjamin. Mr. Smith passes much of his 
time in reading various kinds of literature, with 
which his library is well filled. In religious connec- 
tion he is second to the oldest member of the U. P. 
Church at Mt. Hope, in which he has been an elder 
over thirty years. He has always been an earnest 
worker and liberal contributor to the cause. 




L. M. SMITH was born December 8, 1846, 
in Canonsburg. this county, grandson of 
John Smith. The last mentioned ances- 
tor was born in June, 1771, in York county, 
Penn. In 1796"he was married to Nancy McClure, 
and came to Allegheny county in 1804, thence to 
Washington county in 1807, and in 1810 finally 
located in Beaver county, Penn. He died July 1 7. 
L851, followed by his wife February '21', 1859. 

John M. Smith was born November 23, 1799, 
in Gettysburg, Penn., and in 1804 was brought to 
t he " Pinkerton Place," in Allegheny county, thence 
to Cecil township, this county, in 1807. They movei 1 
to Allegheny county in 1812, and in the fall of 
1815 his father bought a farm in Beaver county. 
upon which he moved the following year. In 1817 
John M. Smith went to Pittsburgh, Penn.. and 
learned the cabinet maker's trade; then worked at 
carpentry, boarding on the farm which his son now 
occupies. On April 10, 1833, he was united in 
marriage with Mary Moore, a daughter of James, 
and granddaughter of John Moore. The latter 
was a native of Ligonier Valley, Penn., and in 1 777 



came to Cecil township. He died on the "Forks 
of the Yough," on the road while moving, leaving 
his widow to rear the children and pay for the 
land. The constable, accompanied by Esquire 
John Donal, came to make a levy of $12, while the 
widow was in the act of family worship. After 
the prayers were finished the constable said he 
would sell no one out who would make a prayer 
like that, and Esquire John Donal loaned her 
the $12 to meet the debt. The widow died in 
Cecil township, and none of the family are now 
living. 

James Moore, a son of John Moore was born in 
Ligonier Valley, Penn.. in 1773, and in early life 
was married to Elizabeth Moore, a native of Butler 
county, Penn. He moved to the home farm in 
this county in 1777, and died on the old place 
July 22, 1859, being followed in 1868 by the wife 
and mother. 

After their marriage, in 1833, John M. and 
Mary (Moore) Smith first located on the old Dr. 
Ramsey farm, near Canonsburg. In the spring of 
1S40 they removed into Canonsburg, where he 
worked at his trade in connection with agricultural 
pursuits. In 1861 he bought, and in 1864 moved 
upon, the home farm of James Moore, in Cecil 
township. In July, 1866, he was taken with gan- 
grene, and a limb was amputated. He died Feb- 
ruary 14, 1886, his widow following him July 7, 
1889. They were members of the Seceder Church, 
and the parents of the following children: James 
Ramsey, born in April, 1834 (married in 1861 
to Mary Jane Reyburn, and settled in Canton 
township); Jane Moore, born in 1836; Mary Cum- 
mings, born in ISMS: Eliza Glasgow and a twin, 
born in 1840; Nancy born in 1842; John Park, 
born in 1844; W. L. M., (whose name opens this 
shetch); John Murray (married in 1878 to Rebecca 
McAnley, of Clarion coupty; he was born in 
1848, and died in 1877, leaving a widow and two 
children); Mary King, born in January, 1851, 
(married in 187S to Mr. A. Malone, of Elizabeth, 
Allegheny county, has two children); Jane Glas- 
gow, born in 1853 (married in 1875 to William 
Henry H. Craig, of Clarion county, Penn.. has six 
children), and Samuel Harper, born in 1855 (mar- 
ried in 1883 to Mary Nancy Westbay, of Eliz- 
abeth; has three children; he is a physician and 
surgeon of McKeesport, Penn). Of these children; 
Jane, Mary, Eliza, Nancy and John all died in 
1S47, between February 25 and March 15, of 
scarlet fever. 

W. L. M. Smith was educated in the public 
schools of Canonsburg. In 1862 he came to the 
farm where he is now living. On November 12, 
1868, he was united in marriage with Grisela 
Roney, daughter of James and Elizabeth (Gibson) 
Roney, natives of North Strabane township, this 
county, where the father died; the mother passed 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



567 



away in 1889. Two children were born to W. L. 
M. and Grisela Smith, viz. : Elizabeth Jane (wife 
of D. J. Stirling, Bulger), and Mary Minerva, liv- 
ing with her mother. She left him in 1872, and 
June '20, 1878, Mr. Smith, after securing a divorce 
in 1877, married Margaret S. , daughter of John 
and Nancy (Greer) Hunter. Her parents were 
born in eastern Pennsylvania, coming to Cecil 
township in an early day, where the father died in 
1865, followed by the mother in 1876. They 
reared a family of ten children, of whom four sons 
served in the war, and William died in the serv- 
ice. Five are yet living, namely: John, a carpen- 
ter, of McDonald, Penn. ; Joseph, a stonemason, 
of McDonald; Maggie; James R. , a farmer of AMe 
gheny county; and Nancy residing with her sister 
Maggie. Mr. and Mrs. Smith began married life 
on the home farm where they arc now living. 
which contains 133 acres of good land. In politics 
he is a Prohibitionist. In religion he and his wife 
are members of the U. P. Church at Venice. 




VILLI AM S. CRAFT, one of the leading 
residents of South Strabane township, was 
born April 3, 1841, in Morris township, 
Washington Co., Penn. His grand 
father, John Craft, was married to Abigail Conk- 
lin, a resident of Morris township, and she bore 
him children as follows: Lila (Mrs. Thomas 
Dickersou), David, Perinhna (Mrs. Samuel Farra- 
bee), Urius, Stewart, Stephen, Conklin, Catherine, 
and William. After his marriage Mr. Craft re- 
mained in Morris township several years, then 
w#nt to East Finley township, where he died. In 
politics he was a Democrat, and in religion an 
active worker and class-leader in the Mi E. 
Church at Mt. Zion. 

David Craft, son of John and Abigail (Conklin) 
Craft, was born November 17, 1812, in Morris 
township, Washington Co., Penn., and there re- 
ceived his early education. On March 29, 1838, 
he was married to Mary, daughter of Stephen 
Mills, a resident of New Jersey. Mr. Mills was 
married to Experience Lory, and she bore him 
the following children: Johanna, Deborah, Jonas, 
William, James, John, Mary, Phoebe, Eliza, Henry 
and Samuel. Mr. Mills went to Ohio, where he 
remained some time, and then returned to Wash- 
ington county, Penn., settling near Taylorstown. 
He was a carpenter and builder, and in politics 
belonged to the Democratic party. In religious 
belief he was united with the Presbyterian Church 
at Claysville, this county. 

Mr. and Mrs. Craft spent the first years of their 
married life in East Finley township, Washington 
county, and then removed to Morris township, in 
1841, settling on the home farm. They have had 
the following family of children: John M. (living 



in Kansas City), William S. (subject of this 
sketch), Thomas (deceased), Stewart C. (residing 
in Idaho), Phcebe C. (deceased), Stephen L. (de- 
ceased), Jonas L. (living in Oregon), Catherine 
(deceased), Melissa, Delia J. (Mrs. Oscar Lindley, 
living in Kansas) and Mary A. (Mrs. J. M. Pat- 
tersou, of Washington, Penn.). Mr. Craft first 
built a log house, and afterward erected a frame 
dwelling, which was burned, and which he rebuilt. 
He was an active member of the Democratic party, 
and in church connection was an adherent of the 
M. E. Church for fifty years, serving as trustee dur- 
ing much of that time. Mr. Craft died February 
19, 1890, and was buried at Mt. Zion. 

William S. Craft passed his boyhood days on 
the home farm in Morris township. Washington 
county, and in August, 1862, enlisted in Company 
K, Sixteenth P. V. C. and was sent to the army of 
the Potomac. He took part in the principal 
battles, and at the close of the war came out 
unwounded with the exception of a slight bruise 
made by a ball. On October 13, 1869, he 
was united in marriage with Martha, daughter of 
John Montgomery, and they have had six children: 
Leroy I (deceased), George W., Inez F., Her- 
schel B. (deceased), John M. and Jane Adeline. 
On his return from the war he operated a portable 
sawmill four years, then commenced farming. He 
first settled on a farm in Morris township, near 
Prosperity, this county, remaining there two years 
when he moved to East Finley township, living 
there one year; thence removed to West Finley 
township, and eleven years afterward bought and 
took possession of his present home in South Stra- 
bane township. Mr. Craft has been engaged in 
the dairy business the past four years, and has a 
herd of twenty cows, which supply a large city 
custom. Politically he votes the Democratic 
ticket, and is interested in all public enterprises. 
When a youth he united with the M. E. Church 
at Mt. Zion, Morris township, but since removing 
to his present home he has attended the Presby- 
terian Church at Washington. 



¥ I It ENRY ROBINSON is a representative of 
[■ — J one of the early families of this county, 
and is a grandson of Henry Robinson, 
I) - 1 who was born in York county, Penn., and 
v came to Mt. Pleasant township, this county, 

over a century ago. He first purchased and 
located on the present site of Hickory village, but 
losing this land by priority of title, never bought 
elsewhere, continuing however, to reside in this 
county. Henry Robinson was a Revolutionary 
soldier, and in politics was an ardent Democrat. 
He died in 1826, having been preceded by his wife 
several years. 

Joseph Robinson, son of Henry, was born in Mt. 



568 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Pleasant township, and attended the home schools 
during his boyhood. In early life he was married 
to Jane Morrow, who was born on Ten Mile creek 
in Washington county, and they settled on the 
farm now occupied by Henry Robinson, where 
children were born as follows: William (married 
to Margaret Anderson, living in Delaware county, 
Ohio), Robert (married to Nancy McNeil, died in 
1882, in East Liberty, Allegheny county), Henry (of 
whom further mention is made), Thomas (married 
to Elizabeth McCauley, living in Mt. Pleasant 
township), Hannah Jane (residing in Burgetts- 
town), Joseph (also in Burgettstowu), Mary (wife 
of Alexander Richardson, living in New Castle, 
Penn.), John (deceased at the age of twelve or 
thirteen years) and Julia Ann (who died in her 
eighth year of Hcarlet fever). The parents were 
members of the Mt. Prospect Presbyterian Church. 
Mr. Robinson was an active member of the Demo- 
cratic party, and always followed agricultural 
pursuits. He died several years ago, the wife and 
mother having crossed the river some time 
before. 

Henry Robinson was born July 18, 1818, on the 
old place in Mt. Pleasant township where he is yet 
living. He was educated in the log-cabin sub- 
scription school of the vicinity, with its usual 
primitive furnishings, consisting of a puncheon 
floor and slab Beats. In 1S47 he was united in 
marriage with Jane Barnett, who was born in Mt. 
Pleasant township, daughter of John and Mary 
(Thompson) Barnett, both of whom are natives of 
Washington county, and early settlers of Mt. 
Pleasant township. The mother died in 1882, 
having been several years preceded by her hus 
band. Mr. and Mrs. Robinson began their wedded 
life on the farm which they now occupy, and the 
following children have been born to them: Mary 
(died September 20, 1856), James Negley (at 
home), Joseph (married to a Miss Wright, is a drug- 
gist at Chad ron. Neb.), John (engaged in stock 
business in Nebraska), Jane Ann (wife of David 
Mc&uyin, a farmer of Custer county, Neb.), 
Martha (Mrs. Perry Lyle, living at Anaheim, 
Orange Co., Cal.), Attissa (deceased January 16, 
1863) and Charlie (married to Belle Caldwell, and 
living on a place adjoining the old Rankin farm). 
The home place contains fifty acres of good land, 
which is in a tine state of cultivation. Mr. Robin- 
son votes with the Democratic party, and he and 
his wife are members of the Mt. Prospect Presby- 
terian Church. 



\ILLIAM W. DINSMORE. Among the 
leading citizens of Washington county, 
the sons of Erin have ever held a promi- 
nent position. The original Dinsmore 
family were natives of Ireland, of Scotch-Irish de- 




scent, and from that fair land James Dinsmore 
immigrated to America, first locating on Miller's run, 
Allegheny county, Penn., afterward, about 1798, 
moving to Canton township, Washington county. 
He had two sons — John and James — also several 
daughters. John was married to Jane Carr, and 
settled in Canton township, this county, where five 
children were born to them, namely: William, 
James, John, Robert and Mary. 

James Dinsmore (son of James and father of 
William W.) was born March 4, 1782, in Canton 
township, this county, and in 1802 was united in 
marriage with Hester Hamilton, who was born 
March 6, 1784, a daughter of James and Mary 
(Renick) Hamilton. Both families were early and 
prominent settlers of Canton township. To this 
union children were born as follows: Robert, Feb- 
ruary 13, 1806; Rebecca, January 30, 1808; Mary, 
January 6, 1810; Elizabeth, September 22, 1812; 
James, November 8, 1815; John, July 25, 1818; 
Alexander W., April 26, 1820; William W., De- 
cember 3, 1822; and Sarah A., September 8, 1824. 
Mr. Dinsmore removed to Mt. Pleasant township, 
where he followed farming very successfully. He 
was prominent and influential both in the Presby- 
terian Church and Sunday school (being a member 
and regular attendant of both), and served for 
many years as superintendent of the latter. They 
brought up their children in strict conformity to 
the tenets of the church. The father died No- 
vember 15, 1831, from the effects of being thrown 
from a young horse. After the death of her bus- 
< band, Mrs. Dinsmore, although in delicate health, 
cared for and educated her children, sending her 
sons James and Alexander to college to prepare 
for the ministry. She died April 13, 1859, in her 
seventy-fifth year. 

James Dinsmore was an uncompromising and 
enthusiastic champion of temperance. About the 
year 1830 Rev. Anderson, D. D. , commenced ad- 
vocating the cause of temperance, and Mr. Dins- 
more was among the first to practice it. About 
that time, being in want of a barn (in those days 
they were all built of logs), he told some of his 
neighbors that he was going to have a "barn rais- 
ing," and that no whisky was to be used in the 
work. In reply to this it was intimated to him 
that the men would not raise the barn without 
whisky. " I will try it anyhow," was Mr. Dins- 
more's laconic reply, and he did so; he not only 
tried it, but succeeded; and it is a historical fact 
that this was the first barn in the country raised 
without the use of alcoholic liquors. To this rec- 
ord his son, William W. , adds the following: 'And 
I, James Dinsmore' s son, am three-score and ten 
years old. and have yet to take my first dram. I 
have not chewed an ounce of tobacco, or smoked 
the bulk of one cigar yet, and I do not feel like 
breaking my record now." 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



569 



William W. Dinsmore was born on the home 
place in Mt. Pleasant township, and attended 
school until about seventeen years of age; he then 
took charge of the old homestead. 

On October 7, 1847, Mr. Dinsmore was mar- 
ried to Miss Mary Jane Maxwell, who was born 
January 11, 1829, daughter of James and Margaret 
(Greer) Maxwell. The young couple first settled 
on the old homestead, two or three years later pur- 
chasing the farm in Hopewell township, which is 
the present home of our subject. It contains 172 
acres, and is known as the best farm on the Wash- 
ington and Wellsburgh roads. In 1875 he pur- 
chased 163 acres in another part of Hopewell 
township, and both farms have been improved and 
cultivated to the utmost extent. Mr. Dinsmore is 
a great admirer of fine horses, devoting much 
attention to raising them. For many years he 
was a teacher in the Sabbath-school, but has re- 
cently given up his class, and he also served many 
years as a church trustee, contributing liberally, 
as well, to the support of the cause. He is an in- 
telligent man, a great reader and a close student 
of current events, and has always been energetic 
and thrifty. 

Mr. and Mrs. Dinsmore both united with the 
Upper Buffalo Presbyterian Church in early 
youth, taking an active part in both church 
and Sabbath school work. She died August 7, 
1889, leaving several children, of whom the fol- 
lowing is a brief record: Margaret Jane, born No- 
vember 10, 1848, is the wife of W. M. Dinsmore, 
of Canton township (they have four children, 
William M. , Mary Daisy, Sarah Adeline and Hel- 
en P.); Hetty Amanda, born December 7, 1850, 
was married to Luther Lawtou, of Cross Creek 
townslup (they have the following children: John 
Orr, Mary Luella, Sarah Bessie and Paul Hubert); 
James Maxwell, born September 1, 1853, married 
Flora Donaldson (their children are Grace Walker, 
Mary Josephine, Robert Edwin and William 
Lloyd); William Benjamin Franklin, born July 
26, 1857, is living at home, unmarried; Mary Lou, 
born October 16, 1859, was united in marriage 
♦villi J. O. Ely, May 10, 1888 (she died May 10, 
1890); Robert Addison, born March 17, 1864, 
studied dentistry and located in Cumberland coun- 
ty, Ohio, but moved to Cleveland, where on No- 
vember 5, 1891, he was married to Miss Virgie 
Green (he is now practicing in Cleveland, Ohio); 
Emma Rebecca, born September 1, 1866, married 
J. O. Ely, September 1, 1891, and they reside in 
Chicago, 111., where he is practicing dentistry. 
Mrs. Dinsmore was much loved and esteemed as a 
good, kind-hearted Christian woman, possessing 
an unbounded influence for good. Her death 
was deeply mourned by her family and many 
friends. 



THOMAS WILSON, son of Thomas and Mary 
(Ellis) Wilson (both of whom are deceased), 
was born near Belfast, County Antrim, Ire- 
land. 
At the age of nineteen years, in com- 
pany with his brother, Joseph, Thomas Wilson 
came to America, and the two young men located 
at Canonsburg, Washington Co., Penn., where 
Thomas was engaged in the butchering business 
for a short time. He then worked in a brickyard 
for a period of five years, after which he moved to 
the "Robert Russell" farm, where he remained 
for twenty-five years. In the fall of 1879 he pur- 
chased the John Cummins farm, containing 110 
acres, in Chartiers township, shortly afterward sell- 
ing it to Robert H. Russell (now deceased). In the 
spring of 1882 he purchased an unimproved farm, 
in Chartiers township, the one on which he now 
resides, immediately proceeding to erect a hand- 
some dwelling and new barn. In early manhood 
Mr. Wilson married Martha H., daughter of 
George Wilson, and to this union the following 
children have been born: George S., Mary E., 
Robert A.. Mat hew C, John R., Anna S., Lizzie 
J., Jennetta B., Louis T. (deceased), and one that 
died in infancy. The entire family are members 
of the United Presbyterian Church, at Canonsburg. 



HELDON B. HAYES, one of the enterpris- 
ing young bnsiness men of the county, was 
born February 3, 1855, in Washington 
borough, Washington Co., Penn. He is a 
grandson of Sheldon B. Hayes, who was the earli- 
est carriage manufacturer west of the Alleghanies, 
having commenced business in Washington in 
1842. 

Marshall H. Hayes, father of our subject, was 
bom in June, 1S27, in Connecticut, where he at- 
tended the common schools and passed his boy- 
hood until the age of fifteen, when he came to 
Washington county. In 1861 he went to Hart- 
ford, Conn., where he remained until 1869, when 
he returned to this county, and here ended his 
days. In early manhood he was married to Sarah 
Morrison, a lady of Scotch ancestry, and who had 
come to Washington county from Scotland at the 
age of fourteen years. The children born to this 
uniou were: Miranda M., who married John A. 
Storey, of Iowa, and died in 1880; Sheldon B. ; 
Virgil C. , who died in 1881; John B., who died in 
1859; Mary, who died in 1862, and George. Mar- 
shall H. Hayes was a carriage manufacturer by 
trade, having succeeded his father in the business, 
and was eminently successful. He was a progres- 
sive, enterprising man, and all movements tending 
to the advancement of his section received his 
heartiest support. He was a prominent member 



570 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



of the Presbyterian Church, and in politics was a 
lifelong Democrat. He died March 26, 1891 ; his 

widow is yet living. 

Sheldon B. Hayes received his primary educa- 
tion at the schools of Hartford (Conn. ) and Wash- 
ington, and afterward attended Washington and 
Jefferson College, where he graduated in L875. 
On June 21, 1889, he was married to Annie C, 
daughter of Adam H. Ecker, and two children, 
Antoinette and Marguerite, have been born to them. 
Mr. Hayes was engaged from 1875 in the business 
of carriage manufacturing and that of sash, doors, 
blinds, etc., established by his grandfather, but in 
1890 he wound it up, and is now engaged in set- 
tling up its affairs, and attending to other busi- 
ness. He is a member of the State militia, being 
adjutant of the Tenth Regiment, and in politics is 
an active Democrat. Socially Mr. Hayes is an ad- 
vanced Freemason, having attained the thirty-sec- 
ond degree. 

rt( LEXAXDER C. MeCOY, a prominent agri- 
# l\ culturist i if Chartiers township, was born 
r^l\ August-!, 1829, in North Strabane township, 
J -* this county. His grandfather, John Mc- 
i Coy, was a native of York county, Penn., 

where he was married to Mary McNary. In 1803 
he purchased and moved upon an uncultivated 
farm in Chartiers township, Washington Co., Penn., 
which is yet owned by his grandson, Alexander C. 
John and Mary (McNary) McCoy were the parents 
of the following children : Esther, Jane, Margaret, 
Elizabeth, James and William. The father fol- 
lowed farming and stock raising. In religious 
faith he was a member of the Seceder Church, and 
in politics a Whig. 

William McCoy was born in 1801, on the home 
place in York county, Penn., and was educated in 
the schools of Washington county, where his par- 
ents had settled soon after his birth. He was mar- 
ried to Martha, daughter of John Chambers, of 
South Strabane township, this county. Mr. and 
Mrs. McCoy first settled on the home place, and in 
1867 moved to Canonsburg, where he died in 1870, 
leaving the following children: Alexander C, 
Mary (married to James Templeton i, Sarah J. 
(wife of Rev. L. Y. Graham, D. D.. pastor of a 
Presbyterian Church at Philadelphia), Abbie C. 
(wife of Rev. J. D. Shanks, D. D., pastor of a 
Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia), and Isa- 
belle (married to Rev. D. B. Rogers, also a minis- 
ter in a Philadelphia Presbyterian Church). The 
father was a man of strong religious convictions 
and a liberal supporter of the Chartiers U. P. 
Church, of which he was a trustee for many years. 
In politics he was a Whig and Republican; he 
served his township as school director, and often 
assisted in the settlement of estates. 

Alexander C. McCoy passed his youth on the 



home place in Chartiers township, and received 
his education at the public schools of Canonsburg. 
On February 28, 1867, "he married Sarah J. . daugh- 
ter of James Linn, of Washington, Penn. The 
first years of their married life were passed on the 
home place, and in 1891 they settled in Canons- 
burg. No children having been born to them. Mr. 
and Mrs. McCoy adopted Maggie Chambers, giv- 
ing her a good education. In 181*1 she became 
the wife of Albert Sauer, of Canonsburg. Alex- 
ander McCoy is a very prominent stockman, and 
for many years has raised registered sheep and 
Shorthorn cattle. He is a member of the We-t ern 
Pennsylvania Agricultural Association. Politically 
he votes the Republican ticket, and has served as 
school director. He is an earnest member of the 
United Presbyterian Church, of which he has been 
a trustee for nine years. 



EILMER R. DEEMS. This gentleman comes 
of German ancestry, the first of whom to 
come to Washington county being Mark 
- Deems, his great grandfather, who, while a 
resident of Maryland, served in the Revolutionary 
war, participating in the battles of Long Island, 
Brandy wine and Trenton. In October, 1786, lie 
came to Pike run township, this county, and took 
up a tract of 341 acres of wild land at the head 
waters of Pike run, naming it "Deems' Depend 
ence," on a portion of which Wilbur A. Deems (a 
brother of Elmer) now lives. John Deems came 
hither with Mark, but did not remain long, remov- 
ing to Virginia, where he made a settlement on t he 
Kanawha river, where his descendants still reside. 
Mark Deems died on this land April 11, 181 1, his 
wife about the same time, judging from the follow- 
ing copy of receipt for wages, filed in the .office of 
the county register at Washington, which receipt 
reads as follows: ''April 27, 1M4. Barbary House 
was employed by Mark Deems and his wife, in 
their last sickness, three weeks, $3.7T>. Received 
payment, Barbary House." They were the par- 
ents of children as follows: George, John, Adam, 
Mark, Jacob, Catherine (married to Nathaniel 
Joues, of Washington county), and Mary (married 
to Samuel Crow, also of this county), all of which 
are now dead. At the time of his death Mark 
I teems was owner of over 80(1 acres in West Pike 
Run township, which laud on his demise was di- 
vided among his children. His personal property 
amounted to 61,985.32, a large amount for those 
early days. 

George Deems, grandfather of Elmer R. , re- 
ceived as his share of his father's estate the farm 
now occupied by the heirs of Samuel Yerty. He 
married Miss Elizabeth Fisher, a lady of English 
birth, and the result of this union was the follow- 
ing named children: Mark F. (deceased), Ggorge 
(living in West Pike Run township). John (who 





isbbt*, 




ia^ilA/ Aj \ /D££^7^ut>p 



^. 



\ 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



573 



died in Illinois), Jacob (living in West Pike Run 
township), Mary (deceased wife of David Jenkins, 
and the mother of Capt. George Jenkins, now of 
West Pike Run township), Catherine (who was 
married in Illinois to Jehu Graves, and died with- 
out issue), and Elizabeth (married to Samuel 
Heaton). The father of this family died in 1851, 
the mother a few years earlier. 

George Deems, father of Elmer R., was born in 
1819, in West Pike Run township, this county, 
where he was reared to agricultural pursuits, which 
have been his life vocation. He has been most 
successful in all his undertakings, and can justly 
claim a prominent place on the noble roll of self- 
made men of the county, as from the bottom rung 
of the ladder he has, unaided, worked his way up 
to the top. The first labor he was employed in was 
breaking stone on the National pike, and by indus- 
try and thrift he is now owner of four of the finest 
farms of his township. In 1846 he married Eliza 
Ann, daughter of John Sharp, who at one time 
owned a fulling mill on Little Pike run, near what 
is known as the White Hall school-house. When 
his daughter. Eliza Ann, was a small girl, Mr. 
Sharp moved to Holmes county, Ohio, where his 
wife died, and Eliza then came to Pennsylvania to 
live with her uncle, Lewis Baker, in West Pike Run 
township. To Mr. and Mrs. George Deems were 
born five children: Elmer R. ; Mary, who died 
young; John J., in West Pike Run township; 
Harvey F., in Canton toXvnship, and Wilbur A., on 
the old home farm in West Pike Run. Mr. and 
Mrs. Deems built a new house on their farm, and 
here she died April 1 1, 1890, at the age of sixty- 
five years. Mr. Deems, now a man of seventy-three 
years, is yet living on the farm. Politically he was 
formerly a Whig and " Freesoiler," now a solid 
Republican; in religious connection he is a mem- 
ber of the M. E. Church, as was also his wife. 

Elmer R. Deems was born in West Pike Run 
township, Washington county, January 16, L849. 
He received a common-school education; attended 
Southwestern State Normal School at California, 
1865, 1866, and Mount Union College, Ohio, in 
1868; was a successful teacher in the public schools 
for several years, and since his marriage, in 1872, 
has followed the occupation of a farmer. He was 
too young to participate in the late war, but when 
there was a call for State troops, after the burning 
of Chambersburg, in 1861, he enlisted in Capt. 
Castner's company, being then fifteen years of age, 
but saw no service. In 1872 he married Emma, 
daughter of James S. Crawford, Esq., of East 
Bethlehem township, and of this union were born 
two children: Sarah O, in 1877, and Ernest, in 
1887. Mr. and Mrs. Deems moved to the Shenan- 
doah Valley in 1S75 (where Sarah was born), where 
they remained only two years, owing to the preju- 
dice of the natives to Northern people. When 



they returned they located in West Pike Run town- 
ship, and later moved to East Bethlehem township, 
where, in 1880, they built a comfortable home. 

Mr. Deems has always been an active Repub- 
lican, and during the Presidential campaign of 
ISM he organized the first Blaine and Logan club 
in the county. The East Bethlehem Cavalry, con- 
sisting of thirty-three members, being uniformed 
and equipped by August 1, it was during the cam- 
paign and as captain of this company, at Freder- 
icktown, on the evening of September 23, he was 
brutally attacked by a desperate Democrat tough, 
and although coming out victorious he received an 
almost fatal wound, which has rendered him inca- 
pable of performing manual labor. Thus com- 
pelled to abandon his occupation as a farmer, he 
entered the political arena, and in June, 18N7, re- 
ceived the nomination for prothonotary, only lack- 
ing two votes of being nominated on first ballot, 
and in November was elected over W. A. Cracraft, 
the Democrat nominee, by a majority of 1,401. He 
has been an efficient and accommodating officer; as 
a high compliment for the satisfactory manner in 
which this most difficult of offices has been filled by 
him, he was, on the meeting of the Republican 
ci invention, in June, 1890, unanimously re-nomi- 
nated without opposition. He has been an efficient 
and accommodating officer, and was re-elected by 
an appreciative public. Sinae his election to the 
office of prothonotary, he has lived in the borough 
of Washington, on East Maiden street. Mr. 
Deems is a, member of I. O. O. F., O. IT. A. M., 
the F. & A. M. and Jacques De Molay Command- 
ery, Knights Templar, and is a member of the 
M. E. Church. 



f/OHN S. CLARK, an enterprising agricultur- 
ist of Buffalo township, is a son of Uriah 
^" Clark, who was born and reared in Claysville, 
^^ Donegal township. Washington Co., Penn., 
where he received a good common-school ed- 
ucation. In early life ho learned the trades of a 
machinist and cabinet maker. He was considered 
one of the best mechanics of the day, and could 
make almost any article of wood. He was married 
in early life to Rosanna, daughter of Jacob Ely, of 
Buffalo township, this county, and at that time 
possessed scarcely a dollar, but he continued to fol- 
low his trades, and finally, by dint of economy and 
industry, accumulated a good property. He reared 
the following children : Christina, Thomas P. , 
Catherine and Rosanna (twins), John S., Hannah 
Jane, Sarah M., Ann E. and Harriet L., all of 
whom are living, and residing in Washington 
county, Penn. After his marriage Mr. Clark con- 
tinued to work at his trade, until, after fifty years 
of toil, he bought 152 acres of land, lying in the 
northeastern part of Buffalo township, and passed 



574 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



the remaining years of his life in retirement. He 
was a man of strong will, and a citizen wbo merited 
the esteem in which he was held by the communi- 
ty. He was laid to rest in 1887. 

John S. Clark was born October 1, 1840, in 
CJaysville, AVashington Co., Penn., and received 
his elementary education at home, where he re- 
mained until the opening of the Civil war. He en- 
listed August 15, 1862, under the Union flag, and 
was a member of Company C, Twenty-second P. V. 
O, Capt. G. T. Work, commanding. He was in 
the service three years, and took part in the en- 
gagements of Winchester, Cedar Creek, Antietam, 
and many others of less importance. He was mus- 
tered out on June 15, 1865. During the conflict 
Mr. Clark was injured so that he could never after- 
ward engage in manual labor. Soon after his re- 
turn to Washington county he was married to Sarah 
Bell, daughter of John and Isabel Mounts, of South 
Strabane township, this county, and they have had 
five children, namely: Anna Belle (wife of Joseph 
Pense, of Washington county), Clara, Margaret, 
Maria, and one son that died in infancy. Polit- 
ically, Mr. Clark is a Democrat. In addition to 
managing his farm he devotes mtich attention to 
stuck raising. 



dl AMES N. BEMIS, M. D. The Bemis Family, 
who are among the leading and cultured 
] citizens of Hopewell township, were originally 
natives of the Green Mountain State. David 
Bemis was born and reared in Dummers 
town, Vt., where he was married to Rhoda Sar- 
geant, who bore him children as follows: Erastus, 
Daniel (deceased), Samuel (a physician living near 
the home place in this county), and Horace (de- 
ceased). The father followed agricultural pursuits, 
and in politics was aworker in the Democratic party. 
Erastus Bemis was born October 3, 1817, near 
the city of Brattleboro, Vt. , and his early life was 
passed in his native State, where he received an 
elementary training in literary knowledge. Not 
content, however, with the educational opportuni- 
ties of the vicinity of his birthplace, he began to 
educate himself, and entered the profession of a 
teacher at an early age, following a course of study 
during his vacations. He afterward came to 
Washington county, locating on Pigeon creek, and 
later lie entered the office of Dr. Emery, remaining 
there some time; then attended Dartmouth College 
une year, after which he entered the University of 
New York, graduating in 1842. On February 14, 
1S44. he was married to Ruth McCullough, 
daughter of Isaac McCullough, who was born in 
Somerset township, Washington Co., Penn., a son 
of Patrick McCullough, a native of County Antrim, 
Ireland, and who at the age of eighteen years 
came to America, locating in Somerset township, 



Washington Co.,Penn.,wherehe purchased 600 acres 
of land and made a permanent home. He (Patrick 
McCullough) was married to Hannah Smith, and 
they reared the following children: James, Eliza- 
beth, John, Ebenezer, Mary and Isaac. The father 
was actively interested in religious work, and was 
the first elder of the Presbyterian Church at Pigeon 
Creek. He was an enterprising man, and in poli- 
tics voted with the Whig party. 

Isaac McCullough was born on the home farm in 
Somerset township, this county, receiving a rudi- 
mentary education in the public schools. While 
yet a young man, he was wedded to Margaret, 
daughter of William McMillen, by which union 
there were four children, viz. : William, Mary 
(Mrs. John Hattery), Ruth (wife of Erastus 
Bemis, M. D.), and James (a citizen of Chicago). 
Mr. McCullough was a Whig and a Republican in 
politics, and in religious faith was a member of 
the Presbyterian Church at Pigeon Creek. 

After his marriage to Miss McCullough, Dr. 
Bemis settled in the village of Buffalo, Hopewell 
township, Washington county, where he practiced 
his profession five years, at the end of which time 
he removed to West Middletown, same county, 
where the remainder of his life was passed. He 
became one of the most successful and well-known 
physicians of the county, and in educational mat 
ters was the peer of any citizen in his vicinity. 
Politically he was a Whig, and a leader in the 
Abolition party, taking also an active part in the 
"Underground Railway," of which West Middle- 
town was then a "station." In religious faith he 
was a leading member of the Presbyterian Church 
for many years, and he was an earnest temperance 
advocate. He died July 14, 1866, leaving three 
children: James N., Mary and David H. 

James N. Bemis was born June 20, 1845, in 
Hopewell township, this county, where he was 
reared. He received his elementary training in the 
common schools, which was supplemented with a 
course at Washington and Jefferson College. He 
then entered Ann Arbor Medical College, remain- 
ing one year, after which he took a course atBelle- 
vue Hospital Medical College, graduating in 1870. 
Dr. Bemis began to follow his profession in West 
Middletown, this county, where he and his brother 
David have secured a lucrative practice. On Sep- 
tember 7, 1876, he married Dora, daughter of A. 
C. Chapman; she died in July, 1877, and for his 
second wife Dr. Bemis was united in marriage, in 
September, 1884, with Jennie B. , daughter of John 
Brownlee. Three children have blessed their 
union: Newton (deceased), Ruth and Janet. In 
his political preferences Dr. James N. Bemis is a 
stanch Republican. 

David H. Bemis, M. D. (a brother by the double 
tie of blood and profession), was born June 17, 
1852, in Hopewell township, this county, and at- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



575 



tended the common schools, also Washington and 
Jefferson College, retiring in his junior year on 
account of poor health. Afterward he took a 
course at the Bellevue Hospital Medical College, 
from which he graduated in 1879. He is a skilled 
physician, and an intelligent and energetic citizen. 
In politics he votes the straight Republican ticket. 



T| R. KELSO, a well-known citizen and enter- 
. I prising agriculturist of Mt. Pleasant town- 
(( J j ship, is a son of George M. Kelso, whose 
^^ father was Mark Kelso. 

The Kelso family are of Irish descent, and Mark 
Kelso, after his marriage to Elizabeth Ewing, 
came to a farm in Allegheny county, Penn., where 
he remained for some time, and in 1818 bought an 
improved farm, which became his permanent home. 
His wife died many years before him, leaving the 
following children: Mary (Mrs. John Cowden), 
living in Mt. Pleasant township; Jane, married to 
George Robb; Esther, deceased in 1888; Elizabeth, 
deceased iu 1884; George M., the father of our sub- 
ject; John, married in Ohio, had one child, Ameri- 
cus, who died some years ago; James, Martha and 
Letta Ann (mentioned below). Of these children, 
James Kelso was first married to a Miss Elder, who 
bore him children as follows: William E., Mark, 
John, Elizabeth and Lucinda; the mother died, and 
for his second wife James was married to Jane Mil- 
ler, and they had three children: Margaret, Alice 
and Miller; this wife also died, and Mr. Kelso then 
made a third choice in the person of Mrs. Cathe- 
rine McMillan, who bore him two children, viz., 
James and Samuel George. The father of this 
family died in Allegheny county, two years after 
the decease of his last wife. Martha Kelso became 
the wife of Phineas Kelso, of Lawrence county, 
Ohio, and four children were born to them, as fol- 
lows: Mark (who entered .the service iu Lawrence 
county, and was killed in battle), Elizabeth, An- 
drew and John. Letta Ann was married to John 
Gregg, of North Fayette township, Allegheny Co. , 
Penn., the following children being born to their 
union: Elizabeth, Mark, Edward, Mary, Levi and 
Esther (twins), Clara, Emma and Ellsworth. 

George M. Kelso, son of Mark and Elizabeth 
(Ewing) Kelso, was born April 6, 1800, in Alle- 
gheny county, Penn., in 1818 coming to Washing- 
ton county with his parents. The family settled 
on a farm now owned by J. R. Kelso, where George 
M. grew to manhood. On March 28, 1838, the 
latter was married to Maria Rankin, who was born 
December 22, 1813, in Mt. Pleasant township. 
The young people settled on the home farm, where 
their lives were passed. George M. Kelso and his 
wife were formerly members of the Robinson's 
Run Union Church, afterward uniting with the 
United Presbvterian Church at Venice. He died 



March 27, 1879, his wife being laid to rest July 
30, 1878. They were the parents of nine children: 
an unnamed infant (deceased); Mary Jane; Lizzie 
E. (wife of David R. P. Springer); Mark; Abigail 
Lavina (deceased); Abigail Laviua (living on the 
home farm); J. R., subject of this sketch; Will- 
iam James, and Maggie A. Of these children, 
Lizzie E. was married February 19, 1878, to David 
R. P. Springer, a native and resident of Robinson 
township, and to this union were born two chil- 
dren, one' of whom, Charley Ross, is living (Mr. 
Springer died August 29, 1887); Mark Kelso was 
married, October 19, 1871, to Elizabeth Cornelius 
Allison, a native of Allegheny county (they have 
had seven children, three of whom are living: 
George and Alexander (twins) and Mark; the 
father is a farmer of North Fayette township, 
Allegheny Co., Penn.); William James was mar- 
ried May 11, 1882, to Miss Ella Finley, of Pitts- 
burgh, Penn. (they reside in Cecil township, this 
oounty, and have one daughter, Mary Elsie). 

J. R. Kelso, son of George and Maria (Rankin) 
Kelso, was born on the farm where he is now 
residing, receiving his literary education in the 
schools of Mt. Pleasant township. Mr. Kelso has 
always followed agricultural pursuits on the home 
farm of 189 acres, his sister keeping house for him. 
He devotes considerable attention to stock raising, 
and has been successful in all his business under- 
takings. He is a member of the U. P. Church at 
Venice, this county, and in politics votes the 
Republican ticket. 



D 



AVID McCLAY (deceased) was born De- 
cember 28, 1854, a son of David aud Mar- 
garet (McElroy) McClay, and was for many 
years one of the prominent men of his town- 
ship. His boyhood was passed upon the home 
farm, and during the winter months he attended 
the district school, completing his education (as 
far as text-books were concerned) at the age of 
fourteen. But in those few years he had acquired 
that which is of far greater value than technical 
facts, an intense thirst for general knowledge, 
which increased in proportion to the informa- 
tion he had obtained. On January 23, 1873, he 
married Martha J. Paxton, daughter of Samuel 
and Martha Paxton, of Chartiers township, this 
county. Mr. McClay at once brought his bride to 
the old home farm, where they remained till 1877, 
when their present pleasant home was erected, to 
which they removed. The children born to this 
union were: Maggie E. , James B. , Albert J. , Ralph 
S., Frank, and Earl (who died young). Mr. Mc- 
Clay was a stanch Republican, and took a deep 
interest in the political questions which occupied 
the attention of his party. He served as school 
director inany years, and was one of the warmest 



576 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



friends of education to be found in the community. 
At an early age he united with the Disciple Church, 
and was ever one of the most active, devoted and 
conscientious members of that body. He was a 
man of fine physical development, and had always 
been an utter stranger to any form of ill health, 
until, stricken down by a fatal fever, he passed 
away, after a few weeks of suffering, October 27, 
1889. A useful life was his, cut down in its very 
prime; a true friend and kind father was called 
away, and he was laid to rest in Washington 
cemetery, deeply mourned by his family and many 
friends. 



AMUEL C. McCLAIN, the oldest living 
representative of his family, was born Feb- 
ruary 26, 1850, in Franklin township, Wash- 
ington Co., Penu., near the habitation of the 
first settler of the township, and is of Scotch-Irish 
descent. 

John McClaiu was born in Ireland, which had 
been the home of his ancestors for many years, 
and in 17TU came to America, settling in Washing- 
ton county, Penn., the following year. Soon after 
his arrival in this country Mr. McClain was mar- 
ried to Rachel Tucker. The young people began 
their pioneer life in the usual log cabin, where 
they lived for many years, and reared the follow- 
ing children: Sarah, Elizabeth, James, Simeon, 
John and William. Mr. McClain was one of the 
organizers of the Whig party in his vicinity, and 
in religious faith he and his family were mem- 
bers of the Presbyterian Church. He was laid to 
rest near the new home, by the side of his wife 
who had preceded him. 

James McClain, son of John and Rachel 
(Tucker) McClain, was born on the home farm in 
Franklin township, and attended the schools of 
those days. In early manhood he was married to 
Nancy Miller, a daughter of Benjamin Miller, of 
Greene county, Penn., and the young people im- 
mediately began housekeeping on the farm, which 
Mr. McClain continue! to own until his death. 
To Mr. and Mrs. James McClain were born chil 
dren as follows: Sarah J. (Mrs. Morris Weir), 
Samuel (subject of this sketch), Martha (deceased), 
B. F., Flora (Mrs. Clark), and Addie (deceased). 
He was a liberal contributor to public enterprises, 
and a quiet but most efficient worker in all pro- 
gressive movements. He was a member of the 
Cumberland Presbyterian Church, and in politics 
was formerly a Whig, but after the organization of 
the party became an active Republican, although 
he never held political office. On April '23, 1888, 
he passed away, and his remains were laid by the 
side of his wife, who died February 28, 1881. 

Samuel C. McClain passed his youth on the old 
home place, and in early life took an active interest 



in the management of the farm. In 1880 he was 
united in marriage with Clara, daughter of J. 
C. Chambers, of Amwell township, Washington 
county, and they have one son and four daughters: 
Ella, Morris, Mary, Nettie and Grace. Mr. Mc- 
Clain has always been a Republican. He is yet 
engaged in farming, owning the old Jolly farm 
near Jolly school-house. 

B. F. McClain, youngest son of James, and 
brother of Samuel C. McClain, also resides on and 
owns the home farm, and is a stanch Republican. 
He is unmarried. 




ILLIAM DAVIS, a leading representative 
and highly esteemed citizen of South 
Strabane township, is a native of the 
county, having been born October 6, 1810, 
in West Bethlehem township. 
William Davis, grandfather of our subject, emi- 
grated from his native Scotland to America at an 
early day, and made a settlement in Washington 
county, Penn., where he passed the remainder of 
his life in farming pursuits. His children were 
Elizabeth (Mrs. Edwaril West), Thomas, Sarah 
(Mrs. William Moore), William, Samuel, Joshua 
and Rezin. He was a member of the Presbyterian 
Church, and in politics a Whig of the old school. 
Joshua Davis, son of this revered pioneer, was 
born October 6, 1787, in West Bethlehem town- 
ship, this county,- and received but a limited edu- 
cation at the subscription schools of the neighbor- 
hood. He married Mary McNeelance, who was 
born November 22, 1785, and the following are the 
names and dates of births of their children: Will- 
iam, October 6, 1810; Lucinda, February 2, 1812 
(married to James Smith); George, July 23, 1815; 
Eliza, May 25, 1822 (married to William Pease); 
Margaret A. , July 28, 1825. After marriage Mr. and 
Mrs. Joshua Davis made their home in West Beth- 
lehem township for a time, and then moved to Buf- 
falo township, where they remained until in their 
declining years they had to abandon farm labor, and 
make their final home with their sou William. 
Here the father died October 10, 1864, the mother 
on June 6, 1871, and both are interred in Wash- 
ington cemetery. They were members of the 
Presbyterian Church; in politics Mr. Davis was 
originally a Whig and afterward, on the formation 
of the party, a stanch Republican. 

William Davis, of whom these lines more par- 
ticularly refer, attended in his boyhood the rate 
schools of the neighborhood of his birthplace, and 
early in life commenced working on his father's 
farm in North Strabane township, where he re 
maiued until 1847. In that year, by careful hus- 
bandry he was enabled to buy a farm for his own 
account in South Strabane township, and since 
that time he has devoted himself to agriculture 




yr^vL @oaj^ 



\ 



^YASHINGTO^ T COUNTY. 



579 



and the growing of Saxony wool, in both of which 
industries he has met with well-merited success, 
his flock of sheep numbering often 1,000 head. He 
owns now about 500 acres of the best laud in the 
county. Mr. Davis has been three times married: 
first, on January 28, 1836, to Juliet Palmer, who 
bore him three children: George, Johu K. and 
Mary Elizabeth. This wife diedOctober 11, 1841, 
and August 15, 1S44, Mr. Davis married Phebe 
E. Moore, who died July 8, 1852. On September 
23, 1853, Mr. Davis took for his third spouse, 
Mary, daughter of David Kerr, which union has 
been blessed with one son, William H., now a pro- 
gressive farmer. Mr. Davis, Sr. , has held a num- 
ber of important township offices, and waB for 
nine years a member of the poor board of the 
county, the duties of which he discharged in a 
manner highly creditable to himself and most sat- 
isfactory to his constituents. For several years he 
was director of the First National Bank of Wash- 
ington, in which he still is a large stockholder. 
He has long been a member of the Presbyterian 
Church of Pigeon Creek, in which for many years 
he was an elder. He is now an elder in the First 
Presbyterian Church of Washington, Penn. 

David Kerr, father of Mrs. William Davis, was 
born near Finleyville, Penn., a son of James Kerr, 
a native of Chester county, and descended from 
stalwart Scotch-Irish ancestry. In Chester coun- 
ty James Kerr married Lizzie Porter, and their 
children were Martha (Mrs. Alexander Bell), Mar- 
garet (Mrs. James Taylor), James, Joseph, Han- 
nah (Mrs. Thomas McVey) and David. The 
father carried on farming in Union township, this 
county, where he died in 1825, his wife following 
hiui to the grave in 1828. They were members of 
the Mingo Presbyterian Church, and in politics he 
was a Whig. 

Their son David attended in his boyhood days 
the subscription schools of the vicinity of his home, 
proving an apt scholar and a good penman. On 
January 10, 1810, he married Sarah Varner, of 
Baldwin township, Allegheny Co., Penn., and the 
children by that marriage were John, James, Joel 
(in Pittsburgh), Cyrus (deceased), Howard, Mary 
(Mrs. William Davis), Willison, David and S. J. 
The father was called from his earthly labors and 
life work on the farm, October 9, 1865, the mother 
dying March 8, 1850, and both are buried in 
Mingo Creek cemetery. They were members of 
the Union Church, in which he was an elder, and 
in politics he was a Democrat. He was a liberal 
contributor to all educational enterprises as well 
as matters pertaining to religion. Mr. and Mrs. 
David Kerr's home after marriage was in Union 
township until 1816, when they removed to Pigeon 
Creek, Somerset township, where they passed the 
remainder of their honorable lives. 






D 



AVID V. DONLEY, a successful business 
man of Amwell township, is a grandson of 
John Donley, a farmer, who, in 1807, came 
from Hagerstown, Md., and located in West 
Bethlehem township, Washington Co., Penn. He 
was married to Sarah Horner, and they had four 
children: Johu (deceased), James, Homer (de- 
ceased) and Sarah (Mrs. Weir). The father of this 
family died in West Bethlehem township in 1S37. 
Homer Donley, son of John, was born iu Mary- 
land in 1807, and same year was brought by his 
parents to West Bethlehem township, Washington 
Co. , Penn. He received a common-school educa- 
tion, and when yet a mere boy the duty of caring 
for his parents devolved upon him. He engaged in 
the milling business, and at the end of seven years 
purchased a farm of 110 acres, where he followed 
agricultural pursuits during the rest of his life. In 
1VJ7 he was united in marriage with Elizabeth 
Wilson, cfaughter of James and Sarah Wilson, of 
Somerset township, Washington county, and their 
children were: Mrs. Mary Jane Young, David Y. , 
Wilson, Mrs. Margaret Young, and Hannah. At 
the time of his death Mr. Donley was worth $30,- 
001). He was a prominent citizen of Somerset town- 
ship, and a member of the Republican party. 

David Y. Donley was born February 8, 1842, in 
West Bethlehem township, Washington Co., Penn., 
and remained on the old home ten years, when the 
family removed to Somerset township, Washington 
county. In 1868 he was united in marriage with 
Emma Whitely, daughter of Peter and Mary 
Whitely, of Somerset township, and three children 
have been born to them, viz. : Lizzie, Walter and 
Everett. Mr. Donley remained at home two years 
after his marriage, and then rented a farm in North 
Strabane township, same county, where he resided 
two years. In 1872 he moved to Amwell township, 
this county, and purchased the farm of 117 acres 
which he has since lived upon; he also owns a fine 
farm of 110 acres, situated near Smithville, also in 
this county, and has been very successful in busi- 
ness. He was in the Civil war three years, having 
enlisted in 1862, in Company F, Eighteenth P. V. 
O, and took part in the battles of Gettysburg and 
the Wilderness, besides many minor engagements. 
Mr. and Mrs. Donley and their daughter Lizzie 
are members of the United Presbyterian Church. 



*|rV ANIEL DAY. The Day family is num- 
1 bered with the old and influential citizens 
| | J J of Washington county, and of the many 
who deserve an honored mention in the an- 
nals of history, this gentleman is a prominent 
figure. His father, John Day, was born May 2, 
1788, iu Morris township, this county, and followed 



580 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



agricultural pursuits from early youth. He was a 
volunteer in the war of 1812-15 under Gen. Har- 
rison. When a young man he was united in mar- 
riage with Sarah Miller, a native of Amwell town- 
ship, Washington county, who bore him eleven 
children, namely: Eliza (deceased wife of George 
Wolfe), a resident of Nineveh, Greene Co., Penn. ; 
Mary (deceased wife of John Brownlee), lived in 
Prosperity, Morris township, this county; Sally, 
widow of Robert Baldwin, of Morris township; J. 
Miller; Daniel, of whom a sketch follows; Harvey, 
of Lincoln, Neb. (was first married to Caroline 
McCallam, then to Mrs. Mary Harris, of Wheeling, 
W. Va. ); Annie (deceased), was the wife of Elias 
Conger (deceased), then became the wife of Dr. 
Strouse, of Amity, Amwell township, this county; 
Abigail, wife of H. C. Swart, living in Washington 
borough; Cyrus, deceased at the age of eight years; 
Jessie and Mary, both deceased in infancy. 

Daniel Day, son of John and Sarah (Miller) 
Day, was born January 12, 1824, in Morris town- 
ship, this county, and first attended school in a 
log cabin twelve feet square, which was erected on 
the home place. At the age of eighteen years he 
entered the employ of A. B. Wolf, a cabinet 
maker of Washington, Penn., with whom he re- 
mained two years, then passed several months in 
Pittsburgh, Penn. In 1840 he was married to Mary 
Bates, and in 1847 went to Waynesburg, Penn., 
where he opened a cabinet, furniture and under- 
taking establishment. In 1854 he sold out and 
entered a hotel in Waynesburg, which he con- 
ducted about eignteen months, then managed the 
"Old Mansion House" in Washington, Penn., in 
partnership with his brother Harvey, continuing in 
that business three years. In 1861 he enlisted, 
under Capt. Wishart, in Company K, Eighth Penn- 
sylvania Reserves. He joined the regiment at 
Washington, D. C, then went to Tenallytown, 
Md. , where his regiment was encamped with others 
of the same division, remaining there about two 
months. During this time they were engaged in 
no active service, but were employed on picket 
duty and incidental work, although alarms were 
often heard along the Potomac line. In October 
they moved to winter quarters at Pierrepont (or 
Langley), Va., and in the spring entered active 
service. Mr. Day took part in the Seven Days' 
Fight before Richmond, Va., second battle of 
Bull Run, and entered Maryland with his regi- 
ment. His health failing, Daniel Day was then 
sent to the hospital, and afterward received an 
honorable discharge. After his return from the 
war in 1863, Mr. Day, in 1865, entered the furni- 
ture and undertaking business at Canonsburg, 
Penn., in which he has since continued. 

Mrs. Day died a few years after her marriage, 
leaving three children: Frank, Ann E. (wife of 
Addison Ruton), and Oello (Mrs. Collins). Of this 



family Frank is married to Myra V. Mills, of Alle- 
gheny City, Penn., and has two children: Emma 
M. and Daniel Day, Jr. On May 10, 1860, Mr. 
Day was married to Hester A. Johns, a native of 
Washington, Penn. Daniel Day is an active mem- 
ber of the Democratic party, and has served two 
terms as burgess of Canonsburg, and has been 
notary public for the past ten years. He and his 
family are members of the Episcopal Church. 



DR. JOHN NELSON SPROWLS. The history 
| of the Sprowls family in this country dates 
• back to tb,e close of the Revolutionary war, 
when John Sprowls, with his wife and nine 
children, left County Tyrone (or County Ferma- 
nagh), Ireland, for the United States, and made 
his home in Pennsylvania, near where Shippens- 
burg now stands, and in what was known as the 
"Horseshoe Bend." He afterward moved to 
Finley township, this county, and settled on what 
is now known as the William Sprowls farm, near 
Good Intent, where he and his wife lived till their 
death. From this parent stock sprung the 
Sprowlses of now East and West Finley townships. 
John Sprowls, grandfather of Dr. J. N. , was 
born in Ireland, and emigrated to this country 
with his parents. He was the third member in 
the family of nine children. Just prior to the re- 
moval of his parents and family from near Ship- 
pensburg to Washington county he was married 
to Margaret Graden. The Gradens came west 
with the Sprowlses, crossed the Ohio river and lo- 
cated near the present site of Steubenville, Jeffer- 
son Co., Ohio. John Sprowls and his wife settled 
on the farm where his son Alexander was born, 
and which he (Alexander) afterward bought and 
lived on until his death. After residing here for 
nearly eight years, John Sprowls and his family 
moved to the farm now owned by a grandson, 
Nelson Ealy, in East Finley township.' Here the 
parents resided till their death. Their children 
were William, who lived and died a resident of 
East Finley township; Ellen, who married John 
Ealy, and lived aud died on the old home place; 
Nancy who married John Rocky fellow; Alexander; 
James; Henry; Arthur; John; Nelson and Mary, 
The six younger sons bought land in West Finley 
township, near Burnsville, adjoining each other, 
where they resided until their death, excepting 
Arthur and Nelson, who remain as landmarks in 
the flight of time. This large family of ten chil- 
dren lived to own their own homes, and were en- 
terprising, industrious and influential citizens, al- 
ways foremost in educational and religious work. 

John Sprowls, father of Dr John N., was born 
in 1818 on the old place (now the Ealy farm) in 
East Finley township, the eighth in a family of 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



581 



tea children. His parents died while he was 
young, and as a consequence he was at an early 
age thrown on his own resources. He worked for 
some years for his elder brothers, eventually saving 
enough to buy a farm. By perseverance and in- 
dustrious habits he soon held a front rank with the 
young men of the neighborhood. He became a 
charter member of the Cumberland Presbyterian 
Church at Windy Gap, and was a ruling elder for 
many years. Till his death, which occurred Au- 
gust 3, 1870, he was looked upon by the people as 
one of the stanch men of this part of the county. 
On April 5, 1850, he was united in marriage to 
Mary Ann McNay, who was born March 18, 1825; 
she is a woman of inestimable traits of character, 
who did much toward the success which crowned 
her husband's efforts. She survives him, and 
divides her time between the old farm, dear to her 
from the hallowed memories of the past, and visit- 
ing her children, of whom there were eight, as fol- 
lows: James M. , born April 14, 1851; John Nel- 
son, born September 14, 1852; Isaac N. , born 
February 20, 1854 (he graduated from Jefferson 
Medical College, Philadelphia, and died February 
20, 1882); Leroy M., born December 22, 1856 
(also graduated from Jefferson Medical College); 
Anna M., born February 26, 1858; Clara R., born 
September 24, 1859; Alexander H, born April 29, 
1861 (he studied pharmacy, and is at present en- 
gaged in the retail drug business at Elgin, 111.),' 
and Lucy E., born June 23,, 1863, died September 

6, 1881. All those living are married and have 
homes of their own. James M. (the eldest in the 
family) graduated from Waynesburgh College, 
read law and was admitted to the bar of "Wash- 
ington county, and now resides in Washington, 
D. C. 

Dr. John Nelson Sprowls was educated in the 
common schools and at Oberlin College (Ohio). 
He read medicine with Dr. Silas C. McCracken, of 
Claysville, this county, entered Jefferson Medical 
College in 1875, and graduated from that institu- 
tion in 1877. After graduating he practiced with 
his preceptor for one year, since when he has been 
following his chosen profession in Claysville. He 
takes a deep interest in his professional work, and 
keeps himself posted on all improvements and dis- 
coveries in medical science. When quite young he 
united with the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, 
and afterward with the Claysville Presbyterian 
Church, of which he is now a member. On March 

7, 1878, Dr. Sprowls was united in marriage with 
Maggie M. McLain, daughter of Hon. Joseph R. 
McLain, and they have had three children: Joseph 
William, born May 6, 1882, who died November 
27, 1884; John Wilson Irwin, born April 20, 1886, 
who died July 19, 1887, and George Milton, 
born October 3, 1888, who is the pride of his 
parents. 




ENJAMIN CHUBBIC is descended from 
an early family of North Strabane town- 
ship. His grandfather, also named Benja- 
min Chubbic, was a sailor, and in early 
life was married to Bathsheba Harvey. In 1811 he 
retired from sea-faring life and settled with his fam- 
ily in Washington county, Pennsylvania. 

Harvey Chubbic was about six years of age 
when his parents moved to Washington county, 
Penn., where his early life was passed. In 1833 
he was united in marriage with Mary Ann Runty, 
who bore him children as follows: Elizabeth (wife of 
William Watson), Robert (deceased), Benjamin (of 
whom further mention is made), and Margaret 
(married to James Auld, of Ohio). Mrs. Chubbic 
died soon after the birth of her youngest child, 
and for his second wife the father was married to 
Rebecca Grable. To this union there was born 
one son, Philip. The father was a successful 
business man, and won his way to fortune by tire- 
less industry. In politics he was a Republican. 
He died August 4, 1890, the wife and mother 
having passed away two years before. 

Benjamin Chubbic now owns and resides upon 
the old homestead. Like his father, he advocates 
the principles embodied in the Republican party. 
The family are all members of the Chartiers Pres- 
byterian Church. He is unmarried. 



El G. EMERY, one of the successful farmers 
of Mt. Pleasant township, is a son of Dr. 
Boyd Emery, and a grandson of Walter and 
— Jane (Blakney) Emery. Walter Emery 
was born in Ireland, and coming to America in 
early manhood was married to Jane Blakney. 
They settled in Canonsburg, this county, where 
he followed the trade of a shoemaker. During a 
heavy storm the public bridge in the town was en- 
dangered, and while assisting in the attempt to 
save it Mr. Emery was drowned. His widow was 
afterward married to Squire Duncan, of Smith 
township, and died about 1865 in Florence, this 
county. 

Boyd Emery was born in 1805, in Canonsburg, 
this county, and reared and educated in his native 
town. He graduated from Jefferson College, 
standing second in his class, and afterward stud- 
ied medicine at Canonsburg under Dr. Leather- 
man. He then entered Jefferson Medical College, 
Philadelphia, and after receiving his degree, set- 
tled near Dunningsville, this county, where he 
passed his life, practicing medicine. He was 
married to Anna Graham, of Cross Creek town- 
ship, and the following children were born to their 
union: E. G. (subject of this sketch), Martha G. 
(Mrs. W. G. Kammerer, of Chicago), James A. 
(living in Somerset township, this county), Boyd (a 
physician and surgeon of Somerset township), Will- 



582 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



iaui H. (living on a part of the homestead in Somer- 
set township) and Anna M. (Mrs. James H. McNary, 
of Nottiuguam township). Dr. Emery practiced 
continuously for fifty-five years, and was a popular 
and skillful physician. He was an active member 
of the Republican party, and in religious connec- 
tion he and his wife were members of the Pigeon 
Creek Presbyterian Church. He died in 18S6, 
having been preceded by his wife in 1874. 

E. G. Emery was born September 7, 1842, in 
Somerset township, near Dunningsville, this county, 
and received his education at Hoges Summit Acad- 
emy. He enlisted at Canonsburg August 13, 
1862, in Company G, One Hundred and Fortieth 
P. V. I., for three years, or during the war, and 
was mustered into the service at Pittsburgh, Penn. 
He was assigned to the army of the Potomac, 
under Gen. Hancock, and took part in the battles 
of Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Wilderness, Spott- 
sylvania, Petersburg, Mine Run and the other 
principal engagements participated in by the 
army of the Potomac. E. G. Emery was in thir- 
teen different battles, and took part in the Grand 
Review at Washington, D. C. He received an 
honorable discharge in 1865, at Pittsburgh. Penn., 
and then returned to Somerset township,this county. 
On December 13, 1S65, he was married to Miss Mar- 
tha Ann Hamilton, who was born November 4, 1844, 
in Nottingham township, Washington Co., Penn. 
She was educated at Washington Female Seminary. 
She is a daughter of the late Alexander Hamilton, 
who was a prosperous farmer and ruling elder in 
Pigeon Creek congregation for a number of years, 
holding the position up to the time of his death. 

After his marriage E. G. Emery settled in 
Somerset township, and in 1868 purchased 188 
acres in Mt. Pleasant township, to which he moved 
the same year, and has since been engaged in 
farming and stock raising. Seven children have 
been born to Mr. and Mrs. Emery, namely: Cora G. 
(Mrs. William L. Mellvain, of Somerset township), 
Lillie A. (wife of John M. White, of Cross Creek 
township), William H., Teresa, Boyd A., Myrta 
and Walter V. Mr. Emery is an active politician 
in the Republican party, and is interested in all 
matters of local importance. He and his wife are 
members of the Presbyterian Church of Mount Pros- 
pect, in which he is a deacon. 



married to a young lady whose name is not known. 
She died, and Matthew was afterward united in 
marriage with Nancy Smith, a native of Smith 
township. In 1846 they settled on the old farm, 
where children were born as follows: Elizabeth 
Martin (wife of John H. Buchanan, deceased in 
1875), Sarah Lavina (wife of Samuel F. Hart, of 
Hickory, this county), John S. (residing in Mt. 
Pleasant township), Margaret Jane (deceased in 
1872, wife of William Ray) and Matthew (engaged 
in farming and stock raising on the home place). 
The father was a member of the U. P. Church at 
Hickory, and died many years ago, his wife sur- 
viving him for some time. 



dfOHN SMITH ACHESON is a prosperous 
! citizen of Mt. Pleasant township, and a 
I worthy representative of an early pioneer 
family. His grandfather, Matthew Reed 
Acheson.was an early settler of Mt. Pleasant 
township; he settled on the farm yet owned by his 
descendants, and passed his life on the old place. 
His son, Matthew Reed Acheson, was born inMt. 
Pleasant township, and in early manhood was 



d.OHN CALVIN FRENCH is the youngest son 
of George M. and Mary (Porter) French, 
I and was born in Washington county, Penn., 
October 10. 1836. His mother died when he 
was less than three years old, and his early 
childhood was spent with relations in Fayette 
county, same State. At the age of twelve years he 
returned to his father's home, where he remained 
about four years, and then became an inmate of 
the family of William Lindley, Esq. * He was a 
boy of all work during the summers, attending the 
district school in the winter; thus circumstances 
denied him the advantage of a thorough education, 
which he so much desired. 

At the age of nineteen he accepted a position in 
the mercantile house of Robert Porter, at Ritchie 
C. H, W. Va. , and at the end of one year's service 
he associated himself with three others in a co- 
partnership, and embarked in the hoop and stave 
trade at points on the B. & O. R. R. , east of 
Parkersburg, Va. This company erected and 
operated the first establishment for the manufact- 
ure of oil barrels in that region after the develop- 
ment of the Kanawha oil field. The sudden break- 
ing out of the war of the Rebellion destroyed the 
business of the company, and caused heavy finan- 
cial losses. In closing up the affairs of the com- 
pany, Mr. French found himself possessed of 
little else save good health, and a settled conviction 
that duty demanded that he should contribute him- 
self to his country's service. Seeking an inter- 
view with some of his associates who had not been 
induced by political intriguers to cast their lots 
with the cause of secession, an arrangement was 
secretly entered into by which he and six others 
like-minded met at an agreed point on the night 
of June 14, 1861, and made their way to St. 
Mary's, the nearest point on the Ohio river, a dis- 
tance of sixteen miles, in time for the morning 
boat going to Wheeling, where they arrived on the 
morning of June 16, 1861. Proceeding at once 
to ''Camp Carlisle" on the island, they enlisted 
in a company which afterward became Company E, 



V 





<gZZ-^^~ 



\ 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



585 



Second Virginia Infantry. Thus it appears that 
the subject of this sketch was one of seven who 
first represented Ritchie county, Va. , in the Union 
army. 

After serving as private soldier, duty sergeant, 
and orderly sergeant through all the vicissitudes 
of the first fifteen months of the war, and having 
been left in command of the company at the second 
battle of Bull Run (one of the two commissioned 
officers present being killed and the other severely 
wounded), an unusual compliment was shown him, 
as no commissioned officer was assigned to the 
company until September 9, 1862, when he was 
commissioned second lieutenant and assigned to 
Company H. On December 3, same year, he was 
commissioned first lieutenant, and assigned back 
to Company E. For some time he was assigned 
to the command of Company B, while that com- 
pany was detached from the regiment at an out- 
post. While in command of a portion of the forces 
which made a dash upon the enemy at the Rocky 
Gap affair on August 26, 1863, he received a severe 
wound near the left knee, the thigh bone being 
fractured and the joint distorted, which has meas- 
urably disabled him ever since. Having been 
rescued from falling into the hands of the enemy 
by his comrades, and having been conveyed by 
ambulance a distance of more than a hundred 
miles to Beverly, Va., he was kindly sheltered and 
nursed by Mrs. Jonathan Arnold, a sister of the 
famous Confederate chieftain, "Stonewall" Jack- 
son, until he was sufficiently recovered to visit his 
old home in Pennsylvania. After his return to 
his regiment he was commissioned adjutant, and 
served in that capacity until his command was 
mustered out. The following is copied from the 
regimental history compiled by Frank S. Reder, 
Esq. , editor of the Beaver Valley News, who was 
a comrade of Mr. French: "There was no braver 
officer in the regiment, and Lieut. French deserves 
special mention for his gallant conduct at the 
second battle of Bull Run, and for his splendid 
leadership in the extreme advance, in the dash 
where he was wounded at Rocky Gap." 

After three years' service in the army, he re- 
turned to Washington county, Penn., and on Sep- 
tember 7, 1864, was married to Miss Sevilla Vaile, 
in fulfilment of an engagement made in early life. 
For some years he followed merchandising. In 
1873 he was elected treasurer of his native county. 
After the expiration of his term of office he re- 
turned to his home in Prosperity, Morris township, 
engaging as far as able in farming. He and his 
family are members of the Presbyterian Church of 
Upper Ten Mile, in the prosperity and work of 
which he and his family have for years taken a 
deep interest. For some time he has served as 
superintendent of the Sabbath -school connected 
with the congregation; for the last six consecutive 



years he has been chosen to preside as moderator 
at the business meetings of the congregation, and 
on February 12, 1893, he was chosen a ruling 
elder. He has long been a member of the Grand 
Army of the Republic, and was one of the charter 
members of Luther Day Post, No. 395, Depart- 
ment of Pennsylvania, and for some time had the 
honor of being its commander. 

Four children were born to Mr. and Mrs. French, 
viz. : Dr. Edward E., of Bentleyville; Leah Mary, 
wife of Dr. A. N. Booth, also of Bentleyville; 
Charles Clinton, who died in infancy, and John 
Calvin, Jr., who is now acquiring an education. 



J I OHN A. NESBITT, a leading farmer of Can- 
I ton township, this county, is a native of the 
| same, having been born April 3, 1829, on the 
farm which is now his home. He is a grand- 
son of John Nesbitt, who was a native of 
Cecil county, Md., and was married to Martha 
Donaldson, a native of Allegheny county, Penn. 
In about 1790, John Nesbitt, in company with 
three brothers, moved to Washington county, 
Penn. The brothers bought their lands in com- 
mon, afterward making a division, John's portion 
being a farm of 119 acres in Canton township, this 
county. Of the other brothers, one moved away, 
but John, Joseph and Jonathan passed their lives 
in the county, and their descendants are living in 
Canton and Chartiers townships. In the winter of 
1837, the family of John Nesbitt was attacked with 
a fever, and on' December 22, 1837, the father died. 
Three of his children were also taken, namely: 
John (deceased October 29, 1837), Margaret (de- 
ceased November 29, 1837) and Jane (deceased 
December 19, 1837). Robert and his mother were 
left to mourn the loss of their dear ones, and on 
April 26, 1843, the latter was laid to rest beside 
them. Mrs. Donaldson, the mother of Mrs. Nes- 
bitt, was a native of Allegheny county, Penn., and 
made her home with her daughter for some time 
prior to her death, which occurred March 23, 1828, 
at the age of one hundred years, four months and 
twenty-three days. She was buried in the ceme- 
tery at Cross Roads, in Chartiers township. 

Robert Nesbitt, a son of John and Martha 
(Donaldson) Nesbitt, was born in 1800, on his 
father's farm in Cauton township, this county. On 
June 12, 1828, he was united in marriage with 
Mary Ann Anderson, a native of Chartiers town- 
ship, Washington county, after which event he 
continued to reside on the home farm. Three 
children were born to this union, namely: John 
A.; Sarah (married to Edward Dougherty, of Can- 
ton township), born August 24, 1831; and Martha, 
born September 6, 1835 (deceased wife of William 
Stewart, of Canton township, whose children are 
Frank and Martha, twins). Mrs. Mary Ann 



586 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



(Anderson) Nesbitt died September 27, 1N37, and 
Mr. Nesbitt was afterward married to Margaret 
Shaw, a resident of Canton township, who bore 
him one son, Robert D., of Chartiers township. 
Mr. Nesbitt was a shoemaker and farmer. He was 
much interested in educational matters, and in 
politics was a Whig and Republican. He was 
formerly an elder of the Associate Reformed 
Church, and then joined the United Presbyterian 
Congregation at Cross Roads. Robert Nesbitt 
died August 13, 1861, on the home farm. 

John A. Nesbitt, son of Robert and Mary Ann 
Nesbitt, passed his early life on the old homestead 
in Canton township, attending the common schools 
of both Canton and Chartiers townships. On Feb- 
ruary 9, 1865, he was married to Mary Reed, daugh- 
ter of Joseph and Anna (McClain) Reed, natives of 
Pennsylvania, who came to Washington county in 
an early day, and died in Cecil township. Mrs. 
Nesbitt died August 20, 1881, and her husband is 
yet living on the farm, where he follows agricult- 
ural pursuits, and occasionally works at the car- 
penter's trade. His farm consists of seventy-one 
acres of well-cultivated, fertile land. Mr. Nesbitt 
i> not an active politician, but votes with the Re- 
publican party. He is a member of the Associate 
Presbyterian Church, and a well-known citizen. 



d,OHN H. HUGHES, an extensive farmer and 
dairyman of Arnwell township, comes of Irish 
J descent. His grandfather, Samuel Hughes, 
removed at an early day from New Jersey to 
Washington county, Penn., locating in Am- 
well township, and for Several years he kept hotel 
on the National pike where John Little now re- 
sides. Samuel Hughes was married to Nancy 
Sample, and a large family was born to them. He 
accumulated a good property, and when far ad- 
vanced in life moved to Iowa, locating near Fort 
Madison, where he died about 1860. 

Workman Hughes was born February 5, 1822, 
in South Strabane township, Washington Co., 
Penn., was educated in the common schools, and 
when twenty-two years of age began business for 
himself. He first owned a farm on the National 
pike, and afterward purchased one of 300 acres in 
the southern part of Amwell township, now called 
the " McGiffin farm." He was united in marriage 
with Rachel Taylor, of South Strabane township, 
who bore him seven children, viz. : Samuel Taylor, 
born March 13, 1849; James W., born November 
5, 1850; John H, born September 11, 1S52; Mary 
E. (Mis. Closser), born in October, 1854; Nancy 
J., born October 21, 1856; William, born in Octo- 
ber, 1858, and Mrs. Rachel Myers, born May 1 2, 
1861. On May 18, 1862, Mrs. Rachel Hughes 
died, and Mr. Hughes was afterward married to 
Margaret Vance, and she dying in 1879, he was 



married to Margaret Scott. Mr. Hughes has been 
a prosperous business man, and has achieved his 
Buccess unaided. In politics he has always been 
a Democrat, and has held several offices, serving in 
Washington county as director of the poor in 
1872-74. 

John H. Hughes, son of Workman and Rachel 
(Taylor) Hughes, passed his boyhood at home, on 
the old farm in Amwell township, Washington 
county; he attended the common schools until he 
was seventeen years of age, and has since been a 
great reader. On February 19, 1874, he was mar- 
ried to Lydia Meek, of Amwell township, and they 
have had the following children: Mary E. , born 
March 20, 1875; Sarah M., born October 3, 1877; 
Lydia B., born February 11, 1879; Charles E., 
born October 28, 1881; Rachel H, born October 1. 
1883; Alice G., born February 10, 1886; John 
Franklin, born May 1, 188S, and Hazel Edna, born 
May 20, 1890. Mr. Hughes has one of the finest 
creameries in Washington county, and is engaged 
in cheese and butter making, having made about 
10,000 pounds of butter and 15,000 pounds of 
cheese. He owns a half interest in a farm of 170 
acres which formerly belonged to David Evans. A 
Democrat in politics, he has tilled several township 
offices. He is a member of the Cumberland Pres- 
byterian Church, and Mrs. Hughes is a Baptist. 




\ILLIAM GILFILLAN, M. D., who, in 
his lifetime was one of the most highly 
esteemed citizens of West Alexander, was 
born in 1818, in West Liberty, Ohio Co., 
Va., a sou of Dr. Edward Gilfillan, who was born 
in Philadelphia, Penn., where he was reared and 
educated. 

Dr. Edward Giltillan received a thorough course 
of training in the grammar schools of his native 
place, which was supplemented by medical study 
at a college in Philadelphia. In early manhood 
he came west, and settled in West Liberty, Va. , 
where he was married to Mary McKinley, who bore 
him the following named children: Harriet (Mrs. 
John Baird), Oberlin (living in Van Buren county, 
Iowa), George (a physician of Van Buren county, 
Iowa), and William, the subject of this sketch. 
After his marriage Dr. Giltillan remained at West 
Liberty, aud then settled in West Alexander, this 
county, where he enjoyed a good practice, and bore 
the reputation of a skillful physician. Politically 
he was formerly a Whig and then a Republican. 
He was among the earliest members of the Presby- 
terian Church at West Alexander. 

William Giltillan passed his youth in West Al- 
exander, aud was educated at Dr. McClosky's 
Academy and Washington and Jefferson College, 
Washington, Penn. He studied medicine with his 
father until twenty years of age, when he com- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



587 



rnenced active practice in West Alexander, where 
he remained during the whole of his professional 
life, dying March 4, 1884. In 1843 the Doctor 
was married to Margaret, daughter of John Broth - 
erton, of this county, and their children were 
Helen, Serena. Edward, John and Campbell. In 
politics Dr. Gilfillan was first a Whig and then a 
Republican. He was a member of the Presbyte- 
rian Church. 



JAMES F. THOMPSON, a prominent and 
prosperous young farmer of Independence 
township, was born July 8, 1855, near West 
Middletown, Cross Creek township, Wash- 
ington county. He was trained from child- 
hood to work on the farm, and received a good edu- 
cation at the common schools. In 1882 he entered 
the retail grocery business in Washington borough, 
Penu., and in 1884 returned to the home farm. On 
November 11, 1884, he was united in marriage 
with Lucy L. Denny, who was born October 25, 
1861, daughter of James H. Denny, of West Mid 
dletown, Penu. This union has been blessed with 
the following children: James D. , born March 29, 
1886; William H., born December 18, 1887, and 
Mary, born October 29, 1890. After his marriage 
Mr. Thompson located in Independence township, 
on a farm situated about one and a half miles east 
of the village of Independence, which has been in 
the possession of his father over thirty years; but 
James is the first member of the family who has 
lived upon it. He has erected a handsome new 
residence on the place, and made many improve- 
ments. Mr. Thompson is a scientific farmer, and 
makes a practical application of any new ideas 
which he can obtain relative to his chosen profes- 
sion. Politically he is a member of the Repub- 
lican party, but takes little part in the warfare of 
active politicians. He and his wife are members 
of the U. P. Church at West Middletown. 



JjOSEPH H. PHILIPS is a son of Isaac 
Philips, whose father, David, was the lead- 
] ing pioneer preacher of Peters township. 

Rev. David Philips was born in 1742, in 
Wales, and emigrating thence many years 
ago, first settled in Chester county, Penn., where 
he was married to Miss Mary Thomas. The young 
couple then came to Washington county, Penn., 
and took up 400 acres of land on the boundary 
line of Washington and Allegheny counties, for 
which a patent was secured March 4, 1786. Prior 
to locating in Peters township, David Philips had 
been a captain in the Revolutionary war, and in 
religious connection was a member of the Great 
Valley Baptist Church. After settling in Wash- 
ington county, he served forty years as pastor of 



the Peters Creek Baptist Church, the land upon 
which the church is now standing having formerly 
been a portion of his property. The following 
children were born to this couple: Isaac, Josiah, 
David, Thomas, Benjamin, Joseph, Joseph (2), 
John, Mary, David (2), Martha and Rachel (twins) 
and Sarah. During the Civil war a full company 
of the descendants of Rev. David Philips took an 
active part in the contest, and nearly 1,000 of his 
descendants are yet living. 

Isaac Philips, son of David and Mary, was born in 
1787, on the home farm in Peters township, Wash- 
ington Co. , Penn. When a young man he was 
married to Nancy Leddie, a resident of Canons- 
burg, Penn. She was reared to womanhood by 
Col. Morgan, a soldier of the Revolution, and 
founder of the Morganza Reform School. Mr. 
and Mrs. Philips began wedded life on the home 
farm, where he erected the dwelling which is now 
the home of his son. Here their children were 
born as follows: Sarah, Isabella, David, Mary, 
Jane, Joseph H. , Dr. James L., Joshua (a minis- 
ter, of Cleveland, Ohio) and Lucinda. 

Joseph H. Philips, whose name opens this 
sketch, was born August 31, 1822, on the old home- 
stead in Peters township. In 1846 he was united 
in marriage with Mary K. Foster, who bore him 
two children, Joseph and Mary (twins), who died 
in infancy. The mother died in 1848, and on 
February 14, 1850, he made a second choice in the 
person of Mary J., daughter of James McKnight, 
of Allegheny county, Penn. Ten children have 
blessed their union, namely: Samautha J., Warren 
J., Flora, Nannie B., Louisa, Elizabeth M., Mi- 
randa, Elmer M., Mary E. and an infant. The 
home farm contains 116 acres of land. In polit- 
ical opinion Mr. Philips is a Republican, and has 
served in various local offices; in religion he is a 
member of the Baptist Church, and has led the 
choir for fifty years. 



f OHN KNOX, a leading business man of Clavs- 
ville, was born July 26, 1829, in Buffalo 
fr I township, this county, and passed his youth 
^^ on the home place, attending the common 
schools and following farming. In 1S4S he 
was married to Mary J., daughter of Samuel 
Flack, of Buffalo township, this county, and she 
bore him two children: Ialam F. and Mary E. 
(Mrs. William Roney). On February 26, 1856, 
John Knox was united in marriage with Amanda 
Kane, a resident of Ohio, and the children born to 
this union were as follows: Anna J. (deceased), 
Horace, William M. and Luella. Mrs. Amanda 
Knox died March 13, 1874, and on October 15, 
1876, he was married to Mrs. Agnes Jane (Campsy) 
Griffith, widow of Hosic Griffith, and she bore him 
two children, John Campsy and Daisy Dell. Mr. 



588 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Knox has been a successful farmer and stock rais- 
er for many years, and in 1891 be purchased a 
one-half interest in a livery barn at Claysville, this 
county, which he is now conducting. In politics 
he has been a lifelong Democrat, and in religion is 
a member of the United Presbyterian Church at 
Clay8ville. 



I( SAAC W. RICHARDS, a properous agricultur- 
ist of East Pike Run township, this county, is 
a native of the same, born October 2, 1842. 

1 He is a son of John Richards, who was born in 
1799, in Maryland, and when a young man came 
to Greene county, Penn. After his arrival in Penn- 
sylvania John Richards was married to Phcebe 
Woodward, who was born in 1803, in Greene coun- 
ty, Penn. In 1841 Mr. and Mrs. Richards pur- 
chased and moved upon the home farm in East 
Pike Run township, Washington Co., Penn., and 
their place was for many years known throughout 
the country as the "Black Horse Tavern." Mr. 
Richards was a successful farmer, and, politically, 
voted with the Whig and Republican parties. He 
and his wife were members of the Baptist Church 
at Coal Centre. Ho died in 1864, followed by Mrs. 
Richards in 1881. They were the parents of nine 
children, namely: Lucinda (widow of Owen Hines), 
living in Coal Centre, Penn. ; Thomas O, resid- 
ing in East Pike Run township; Isaac W., whose 
name opens this sketch; John P. ; Mary Ann; Eliza 
Jane; Sarah Ann and Amy Ann (twins), and Har- 
riet M. , of whom the six last mentioned are now 
deceased. 

Isaac W. Richards remained on the home farm 
during his youth, there receiving a common-school 
education. In 1860 he was united in marriage 
with Mary M. Duvall, who was born December 23, 
1843, in East Pike Run township, a daughter of 
Alexander, and granddaughter of Jacob and Jane 
(Patterson) Duvall. The latter couple were na- 
tives of Maryland, and were descended from Irish 
ancestry. They came to Washington county, Penn. , 
many years ago, where the following children were 
born and reared: Mary, widow of Moses Billings- 
ley, of California, Penn. ; Harriet, widow of Rob- 
ert Duvall, of Illinois; Samantha, wife of Lewis J. 
Weaver, a farmer of East Pike Run township; Jef- 
ferson, a resident of East Pike Run township; and 
eight others who are now deceased. The parents 
died in East Pike Run township. 

Alexander Duvall was born in 1810, on the home 
farm in East Pike Run township, Washington Co., 
Penn., and passed his youth under the paternal 
roof. In early life he was married to Jemima Han- 
non, who was born in 1809, and they were the par- 
ents of seven children, namely: Henry, a farmer 
of Fayette county, Penn. ; Jacob, an agriculturist 
of Allen township, Washington county; James M. ; 



Jefferson, a farmer of East Pike Run township; 
Isabella, wife of Jacob Crow, now of Madison 
county, Iowa; Mary, wife of Isaac Richards, and 
Julia, married to William H. Jackman, a farmer of 
East Pike Run township. The father of this fam- 
ily died in 1884, and in 1887 the mother passed 
away. They were members of the M. E. Church. 
To the union of Isaac W. and Mary M. (Du- 
vall) Richards six children have been born, name 
ly: Harriet E., Mina, Nellie B., Elsie B., and 
Luretta and Viletta (both deceased). Mr. Rich- 
ards owns ninety acres of the old homestead, and 
gives his principal attention to farming. He has 
taken an active interest in the Republican party, 
and has served for twenty-five years as school di- 
rector. He and his wife are members of the Pres- 
byterian Church at Coal Centre. 



If ESSE M. DILLE, an esteemed and prosper- 
ous farmer of Morris township, is a grandson 
If II of Lewis Dille, who was born in New Jersej - , 
— ^ and was there united in marriage with Sarah 
Sanders. After their marriage the young 
people moved to Morris township, Washington Co., 
Penn., and located on a farm about three miles 
east of Prosperity 7 , which is now the property of 
their grandson, Jesse, and there reared the follow- 
ing family of children: Usual Keziah, Abbie, 
Sarah, Ephraim, Lewis and Jane. Mr. Dille passed 
from earth in 1820. 

Lewis Dille, sou of Lewis and Sarah (Sanders) 
Dille, was born upon the farm of his father August 
17, 1799, and in early life learned shoemaking. 
In 1822 he married Miss Lucy McCollum,and their 
children were: Ira (deceased), Jesse M., Cephas 
(a resident of Morris township, Greene county), 
Daniel (who lives in Prosperity, Morris town- 
ship), Ephraim (residing in Greene county), John 
(a citizen of Prosperity), David (a resident of Clays- 
ville, Donegal township, this county), and Keziah 
(who lives in Morris township). Mr. Dille died 
April 28, 1885, and was followed within the year 
by his faithful wife. He was a Democrat in poli- 
tics, and in religion was a member of the Upper 
Ten- Mile Presbyterian Church, at Prosperity, in 
which he was an elder, holding that position until 
his death. 

Jesse M. Dille was born March 16, 1825, on the 
home farm in Morris township, this county, where 
he has always lived. On December 11, 1851, he 
was united in marriage with Rachel Miuton, also 
a resident of Morris township, and their children 
are: W. H. , Addison, Samuel, Eva, Lizzie and 
Homer. W. H. and Samuel are photographers at 
Prospect, Ohio; Addison is a dentist in Newton, 
Jasper Co., Iowa; Eva is the wife of Oliver Booth, 
of Morris township; Lizzie and Homer reside with 
their parents. Mr. Dille was formerly engaged in 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



589 



the dry-goods, grocery and hotel business at Wash 
ington, Penu., and has made a success in all. 
Politically he is a Democrat with Prohibition tend- 
encies, and in religion is a member of the Upper 
Ten- Mile Church at Prosperity. 



J | AMES S. HAYS. Among the well-to-do 
and influential farmers of this county, James 
S. Hays is prominently known. He is a 
representative of an old pioneer family, of 
whom the earliest ancestor there is record of 
was one David Hays. David Hays bought land 
in New Jersey, September 13, 1787, and his chil- 
dren were born and reared in that State, as fol- 
lows: Seven sons — John, Thomas, David, Joseph, 
William, James and Moses — and live daughters 
whose names are unknown. 

Moses Hays, son of David, was born in New- 
Jersey, and after partially learning the blacksmith's 
trade, was drafted, at the age of sixteen, into the 
Continental army, and with five of his brothers 
served during that contest. He was employed as 
regimental blacksmith till the close of his term of 
service. During the contest, his brother John, 
who was a lieutenant, received a wound which 
soon afterward caused his death. In 1783 Moses 
Hays was married to Jemima Peterson, a native 
of New Jersey. Soon after the close of the Revo- 
lutionary war, Moses, with his wife and brothers, 
went west, settling on 1,000 acres of land about 
three miles southeast of Burgettstown, this county, 
on Raccoon creek. The brothers divided this land 
among themselves, and Moses made a permanent 
home upon his share which is still owned by Alex- 
ander Hays, a grandson of Moses, where the follow- 
ing children were born and reared: Thomas, born 
on October 5, 1784 (moved to Jackson county, 
Ohio, where he died); Edith, born February 27, 
1786 (wife of David Hays, of Ohio); John, born 
February 3, 1789 (deceased near Moorefield, Har- 
rison Co., Ohio); William, born April 7, 1791 
(killed by accident); James, born June 11, 1793 
(deceased in Allegheny county, Peun.); Alexander, 
born November 11, 1795; Mary, born December 
25, 1797 (died in youth); Eleanor, born November 
15, 1799 (deceased wife of James Todd, of Alle- 
gheny county); Joseph, born February 15, 1801 
(deceased on the home farm); David, born May 7, 
1803 (deceased farmer of Smith township, married 
to Martha Fulton), and Ann, born June 23, 1805 
(deceased in youth). Moses Hays possessed a re- 
markably retentive memory, easily recalling inci- 
dents of the Revolutionary war fifty years after 
the conflict. Anything once seen or heard he 
never forgot, and was easily brought to his mind 
whenever the subject arose. He was a prominent 



and successful farmer, and in religion was a mem- 
ber of the Raccoon Church during the ministry of 
Rev. Moses Allen, who was a personal friend of 
Moses Hays. The latter passed away in 1836, 
being followed in a few days by his wife. 

Alexander Hays was born November 11, 179.">, 
on the farm of his father in Smith township. His 
literary attainments were acquired in the primi- 
tive log cabin school-house of the day, the instruc- 
tion being as limited as the furniture, but Alexan- 
der Hays soon gave evidence of unusual mechan- 
ical ability, readily learning both the carpenter' s and 
blacksmith's trades. In 1824 he was married to 
Ann Stevenson, who was born in 1802, daughter 
of James Stevenson, an extensive landowner of 
Smith township. The children born to this union 
were as follows, one deceased in infancy, James 
S. (whose name opens these lines), Jemima (de- 
ceased in infancy), John (a farmer of Smith town- 
ship) and Joseph (a lawyer in Pittsburgh, Penn.). 
Alexander and Ann (Stevenson) Hays began mar- 
ried life on a part of the old Stevenson tract, lying 
about one and a quarter miles west of Burgetts- 
town, Penn., where they passed all their wedded 
life. He was an industrious, kind hearted and 
prosperous man, and possessed many friends. In 
politics he was a stanch supporter of Democratic 
principles, and filled several township offices to the 
entire satisfaction of his party. He died in 1S16; 
in 1881 his widow was laid to rest beside him. 

James S. Hays was born July 26, 1826, on the 
home farm in Smith township, being trained from 
early youth to the vocation of a husbandman, 
which he has continued to follow through life. He 
obtained his early knowledge of literature from the 
3ommon schools, remaining with his parents until 
attaining maturity. On March 16, 1855, he was 
united in marriage with Sarah, daughter of Samuel 
Riddile, of Smith township, and the following chil- 
dren have been born to them: Samuel (who died 
at the age of twenty-seven years), Annie M. (resid- 
ing at home), David V. (at home), James G. (a 
carpenter now farming in Tuscarawas county, 
Ohio), Mary (living at home), Edgar (who died in 
youth) and Robert R. (living with his parents). 
After their marriage James and Sarah (Riddile) 
Hays located on a part of the " old Stevenson 
tract " adjoining the birthplace of Mr. Stevenson, 
where he has always resided with the exception of 
four years passed in Robinson township, this 
county. 

He is surrounded by a host of admiring and 
affectionate friends, all of whom are ever wel- 
come to enjoy the comforts and luxuries of his 
pleasant home. In addition to general farming 
Iih ships a large quantity of milk to Pittsburgh. 
Having accumulated a considerable property he is 
now enjoying the reward of many years of toil. 



590 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



IfOSEPH H. CLOKEY, an affluent farmer of 
North Strabane township, is a native of the 
r II same, having been born July 24, 1845, on the 
^^ farm he now owns. James Clokey, his grand- 
father, was born December 30, 1757, in County 
Down, Ireland, where he was educated and reared. 
In an early day he immigrated to this country, 
making his first home in the land of his adoption 
in Dauphin county, Peun. , whence in 1812 he came 
to this county, and in the following year purchased 
a tract of land containing 300 acres, lying on both 
sides of Chartiers creek, which farm is now the 
property of our subject. He had three children, 
viz. : Sarah (who married James Herron), Samuel 
and Mary (latter being now deceased). James 
Clokey was a member of the Seceder Church at 
Peters Creek, about eleven miles from his home, 
and he' was wont to make the journey on horseback. 
As one of the organizers of the Seceder Church 
near Pigeon Creek, he was a liberal supporter of 
it, and for years was one of the trustees; in his po- 
litical associations he was a lifelong, Old line Whig. 
In addition to his farming interests, he operated 
distilleries in both Dauphin and Washington coun- 
ties. He died October 6, 1839; his wife, Jane 
Clokey, died in her eighty-second year. 

Samuel Clokey, the only son of James and Jane 
Clokey, was bom April 25. 1787, in Dauphin county, 
Penn. , and was educated at the subscription schools 
of the locality. At the age of eighteen he came 
to Washington county, and until the day of his 
death remained on the home place settled by his 
father. On January 1, 1824, he was married to 
Rebecca, daughter of Alexander McClure, of South 
Strabane township, and the children born to them 
were Mary J., wife of P. F. Martin (deceased); 
James (deceased); Elizabeth B. , wife of James 
Martin; Alexander (deceased); Sarah H. . wife of 
Hon. J. G. Clark; Samuel M. (deceased); Abigail 
F. (deceased); Joseph H. ; Rebecca M., wife of Dr. 
George A. Dougherty, and Caroline L. The 
father died December 31, 1871, the mother July 
11. 1878, and their remains repose in the cemetery 
at Pigeon Creek. Mr. Clokey in church connec- 
tion was first a Seceder, but afterward united 
with the U. P. Church at Pigeon Creek, of which 
he was a trustee. Politically he was a Whig and 
afterward, on the organization of the party, a Re- 
publican. About 1845 he applied for a postoffice 
at the village on his farm, when there was no of- 
fice nearer than Washington, five miles distant, 
which request was granted, and he partially sup- 
ported the same until the Civil war, from which 
time to the present the office named Clokey has 
done a thriving business. Mr. Clokey was post- 
master of the same until his death. 

Joseph H. Clokey was educated at the common 
schools of the district in North Strabane township, 
and had a thorough practical training in agricult- 



ure on his father's farm. On December 12, 1878, 
he was married to Jennie, daughter of Rev. Joseph 
White, of Knoxville, Iowa; she died September 4, 
1885, leaving three children: Samuel J., Ethel R. 
and Elizabeth Anna. In February, 1889, Mr. 
Clokey married Lucy E. Toynbee, daughter of 
Edward and Caroline S. Toynbee. Mr. Clokey 
owns a fine farm of 300 acres, well adapted for 
cereal and root crops, besides stock raising. He 
is a member of the TJ. P. Church at Pigeon Creek, 
and in politics is a stanch Republican. He is a 
leader in his township, taking a lively and sub- 
stantial interest in all public matters tending to 
the advancement and prosperity of the community 
at large. Since his father's decease he has held 
the position of postmaster at the village of Clokey - 
ville, on his farm. 



/ 



HARVEY H. KINDER, a well-known farmer 
of Washington county, is a native of West 
Bethlehem township, and a resident of East 
1 Pike Run township. His father, Valentine 
Kinder, was a son of George and Ruth Kin- 
der, who were of German- Welsh descent, and passed 
their later years on a farm in Washington county, 
Pennsylvania. 

Valentine Kinder was born in 1804, in Wash- 
ington county, Peun. , and when a young man was 
united in marriage with Julia A. Booze, who was 
born in 1806. Their children were born as fol- 
lows: George, Harvey H. , Louis, Isaac, John, 
Christian, Elizabeth, Valentine and Samuel, of 
whom are yet living Harvey H. and Samuel. The 
father was an active worker in the Whig party, and 
followed the occupation of farming. He died in 
June, 1890, having been preceded by the mother 
in 1884. Both were members of the M. E. Church. 
Harvey H. Kinder was born September 28, 1833, 
on the home farm iu West Bethlehem township, 
Washington Co., Penn., where he received a com- 
mon-school education. In 1861 he enlisted as a 
private in Company B, Twenty-second Cavalry, 
under Capt. A. J. Greenfield, and served in the 
principal battles of the war, and a number of slur 
mishes in which his company were engaged. In 
1864 he received an honorable discharge, and re- 
turning home was married October 16, 1864, to 
Maria Bailey, who was born 1843, in Washington 
county, Penn. She is a daughter of Isaac and 
Agnes Bailey, and granddaughter of George and 
Rebecca (Zollars) Garret. The last mentioned 
couple were of German ancestry, and settled in 
this county many years ago, where they both died. 
Isaac Bailey was of Welsh descent, and was 
born in 1812, in Washington county, Peun. When 
a young man he was married to Agnes Garret. 
She was born May 8, 1817. Three children were 
born to this union, as follows: Maria (Mrs. Kin- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



591 



der), Henry and William G. He was an active 
worker in the Republican party, and in religion a 
member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. 
He died in 1882; his widow still survives. 

Harvey H. and Maria (Bailey) Kinder are the 
parents of five children, namely: Isaac V., Dora A., 
Anna, Emma and William. Mr. Kinder is a prom- 
inent citizen, is actively identified with the Repub- 
lican party, and has held various township offices. 
His farm contains ninety-three acres of valuable 
land, upon which a comfortable two-story brick 
residence has been erected, also a large frame 
barn. He and his wife are members of the Cum- 
berland Presbyterian Church. 




ILLIAM ROSS. Among the prominent 
and successful citizens of Chartiers town- 
ship William Ross stands with the Srst. 
He is the eldest of two children born to 
Thomas Ross, whose parents were Joseph and 
Martha (Christy) Ross. The latter were natives 
of Ireland, and in 1794 came with their first-born 
child to Mifflin county, Penn. , where they settled 
and carried on a farm. To Joseph and Martha 
(Christy) Ross, children were born at follows: 
James, John, Michael, Joseph (all four of whom 
were deceased in Mifflin county), Mary, Martha, 
Jane (Mrs. William M. McLaughlin) and Thomas. 
Joseph Ross passed the remainder of his life on 
the pioneer farm, where he and his wife died. 

Thomas Ross was born in 1787, in County 
Londonderry, Ireland, and came with his parents 
to Mifflin county, Penn. In 1807 he came to 
Washington county, and in 1810 was married to 
Margaret McKnight, also a native of Ireland, a 
daughter of William and Margaret (Luttou) Mc- 
Knight, who emigrated from Ireland in an early 
day, and passed their lives in Washington county, 
Penn. After his marriage to Margaret McKnight, 
Thomas Ross settled on a farm in North Strabane 
township, this county, where two children were 
born: William and Jane (widow of James Farley, 
of Washington. Penn.). The father died in 18t>7, 
being preceded by his wife in 1832. 

William Ross was born September 2, 1811, in 
North Strabane township, Washington Co. , Penn., 
and was educated in the log cabin subscription 
schools of the times. In 1845 he was married to 
Rachel Watson, who was born June 30, 1818, 
daughter of David and Mary (Craighead) Watson. 
They were born in Ireland and came to America 
before the Revolution, and Gen. Washington made 
his New Jersey headquarters during the Revolu- 
tion, at the home of grandfather Craighead. 
After their marriage David and Mary (Craighead) 
Watson settled on the farm where William Ross is 
now living, and the following named children were 



reared by them: Martha, born in January, 1816, 
(deceased May 17, 1884); Rachel (Mrs. William 
Ross); Nancy, born March 11, 1820; Milly, born 
December 8, 1822; Mary Ann, born January 1, 
1825 (deceased September 29, 1825); Isabel, born 
January 11, 1827 (deceased in October, 1891, 
at Canonsburg), and George C, born January 
27, 1829 (deceased in childhood). After his 
marriage William Ross settled in a log cabin 
(one of the oldest in Washington county) on the 
farm which is yet his home. Children have been 
born to him as follows: Mary Jane (wife of 
William Gardener, of Iowa), Amelia (married to 
John Edwards, of Chartiers township), Anna 
Maria, Isabelle, William, and David (married to 
Elizabeth Potter, who has borne him four children). 
Mr. Ross is one of the oldest living settlers of 
Chartiers township, and has known all the hard- 
ships peculiar to pioneer life, and has always been 
a farmer, now owning a well cultivated farm of 
ninety-six acres, being also engaged in mining coal 
from a vein on the place. In politics he has always 
been a Democrat, and cast his first vote for Gen. 
Jackson. One grandchild is living with him, 
George Foster. Mrs. Ross died some years ago. 



d 



||OSEPH BUFFINGTON stands prominent in 

the array of native-born agriculturists of 

Washington county, as a weather-worn giant 

tree towers in a forest of majestic oaks. He 

is the grandson of John Buffington, of an 

old-time Quaker family, who came into the wilds 

of what is now the State of Pennsylvania with 

their great leader, William Penn. 

This John Buffington was the first postmaster 
of Philadelphia, when the now great city was a 
place of a few straggling cabins, built at the inter- 
section of two country roads. He held this office 
until the Revolutionary war, when he came to 
Washington county, making a settlement in Pike 
Run township, where he patented a large tract of 
land. He married Sarah Young, of Chester 
county, who bore him the following named children : 
Joseph, Sethecia and Aca. A tailor by trade, Mr. 
Buffington followed it to a certain extent in con- 
nection with farming, but the latter was his chief 
employment through life. In politics a Whig, he 
took an active interest in the affairs of the nation 
in his day struggling through a period of com- 
parative infancy. Mr. Buffington died at about 
the age of seventy years. 

Sethecia Buffington, father of Joseph, was born 
and reared in Pike Run township, and when a 
young man learned the hatter's trade, at which he 
was employed a few years in early life, the latter 
portion being devoted to farming pursuits. Like 
his father, he had to undergo the many trials 



592 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



and hardships incident to pioneer life, and his 
name in the vicinity of his labors is " as familiar as 
household words." For a long term of years he held 
the office of justice of the peace, in fact, until the 
revision of the constitution of the United States. 
In 1840 he pushed farther westward, making a 
settlement in Iowa, where he passed the remainder 
of his active life, dying in 1851 at the age of about 
three-score years. Children as follows were born to 
him: Orpha, John, Polly, James, Joseph, Seth, 
Jessie, Robert, Sarah, Abbie and William B., of 
whom are now living: Joseph (in Washington 
county, Penn.), Abbie (Mrs. Deems, in Missouri), 
and William B. (in Henry county, Iowa). 

Joseph Buffington was born March 2, 1806, in 
East Pike Run township, three miles west of 
Brownsville, where he was educated and reared to 
farm life. His education was received at the old- 
fashioned log school-house of those primitive days, 
presided over by some worth)' antiquated dominie, 
who, perhaps, knew but little more than did his 
pupils. In his youth our subject learned the 
tanner's trade with David and John McKenuan, 
and for nine years was engaged in the business, 
during five of which he conducted a tannery at 
Beallsville, this county, and then returned to the 
farm. In February, 1845, he removed from Pike 
Run to East Bethlehem township, where he has 
since resided. Mr. Buffington was united in 
marriage with Miss Mary, daughter of John 
Thompson, an early resident of East Bethlehem 
township, and to them were born children as 
follows: John, Andrew Jackson. Ruth, Mary, 
Sarah and Emma. Of these John is deceased. 
Andrew Jackson married Elizabeth Taylor, of 
West Pike Run township, and now resides in 
Henry county, Iowa; Ruth married James Irwin, 
and resides at Front Royal, Va. ; Sarah married 
Jacob Dague, and has her home in Somerset 
township, this county; Mary is the widow of Frank 
Jordan, and lives with her father; Emma is the 
wife of Miles G. Ruble, and resides in Kentucky 
(our subject reared two of their children, one of 
whom is now attending college at California, Penn.). 
Mr. and Mrs. Buffington celebrated the sixty-third 
anniversary of their marriage. Mrs. Buffington 
died October 28, 1892. Mr. Buffington is hale 
and hearty for a man of his years, and is as straight 
as an arrow, wonderfully agile, and gifted with a 
remarkable memory. He is a Democrat, although 
from principle he voted for Gen. Harrison and 
Abraham Lincoln. His farm consists of seventy- 
three acres of prime land, whereon are cultivated 
under his immediate supervision various small 
crops. ■ 

Andrew J. Buffington, son of Joseph, is a Re- 
publican in politics, has twice served in the Penn 
sylvania Legislature, and is at present county com- 
missioner of Henry county, Iowa. 



[OSEPH KAMMERER. This prominent mer- 
chant, agriculturist, distiller and stock dealer 



ri was born May 20, 1835, on the place adjoin- 
ing where he now resides, and of which in 
1859 he became owner. 

His father, John Kammerer, was born in Ger- 
many in 1793. and was educated in the schools of 
his land. In 1820 he was married to Margaret 
Dunker, who was born in 1800, and five children 
were the result of this union, namely: Mary Ann, 
Barbary, Catharine. John and Martin, all now de- 
ceased. The mother died in her native land in 
February, 1830, and the father was, on July 21, 
1830, united by matrimony with Elizabeth Bender. 
Then bidding good-bye to the Fatherland, wife and 
children, he sailed for America. After finding a 
suitable location for a home, he sent for his wife 
and children, the next year, and settled in Notting- 
ham township. Washington Co. , Penn., following 
the business of millwright and milling. He then 
worked two years as a carpenter, after which he 
embarked in general merchandising and the hotel 
business, on a tract of land of eighty acres leased 
from Thomas Officer, the patentee of same (near 
the present site of the village of Kammerer I, which 
he purchased in 1839. Thereon he erected a store- 
room and hotel, and the place came to be known 
as ''Dutch John's.'" To the union of John ami 
Elizabeth (Bender) Kammerer were children as 
follows: Jonathan, born July 31, 1831: Joseph 
(whose sketch follows); Elizabeth, born February 
28, 1837; Jacob, born November 22, 1838; Will' 
iam S. , born February 23, 1843; Franklin G., 
born Februarv 24, 1845. Of these, Jacob died July 
27, 18311: Jonathan died October 20, 1887; Frank 
lin G. and William S. are at present engaged in 
the commission and brokerage business in Chi- 
cago. The father died Julv 24, 1856, the mother 
on May IS. 1859. 

Joseph Kammerer, after his father's death, took 
charge of the business, and under his management 
it has been conducted to the present time. In 1860 
he was united in marriage with Lucinda Howden, 
and to their union five children have been born, 
namely: Elizabeth Etta Bell, born March 3, 1861; 
Margaret Jane, born September .">, 1863; Joseph 
Elmer, born November 2, 1864; James Alvin, born 
Februarv 9. 1868, and Anna Barbara, born Feb- 
ruary 8, "1872. 

In 1881 a partnership company was formed, 
under the name of '"-The Kammerer Manufactur- 
ing Company (Limited)," between Joseph Kam- 
merer, Christian Hootman and John Leyda, forthe 
manufacture of liquors, the two partners last 
mentioned retiring from the company before the 
machinery was put into operation. The capacity 
of the distillery is thirty bushels per day. In con- 
nection with the distillery. Mr. Kammerer conducts 
a roller flouring mill, having a capacity of seventy- 





&z> 




^^^ZZ^J, 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



595 



five barrels of flour per day, and fitted with all the 
latest improved machinery, making a market for 
several townships for grain for which the highest 
cash prices are paid. He owns 200 acres of land 
on which mills are located, and is very valuable 
for its coal and gas, and for grazing and farm pur- 
poses. On this he is raising a fine herd of cattle. 
Mr. Kammerer is also in the merchandise business, 
carrying a stock of goods of about $75,000, con- 
sisting of a complete line of goods kept in a gen- 
eral store. In 1873 he was appointed postmaster 
at Kammerer, which office he still holds. 



JiOSEPH KEYS, a very successful agricultur- 
I ist, and prominent representative of an old 
) family of Smith township, is a grandson of 
James Keys, who was born and reared in 
Cumberland county, Penn. , and was there 
married to a native of the same county, who bore 
him one son, James. 

Soon after the birth of this sou the father died 
(about 1777), and his widow was then married to 
Robert Watson. Her son James lived with them, 
and in 1794 accompanied the family to Washing- 
ton county, locating on Chartiers creek, Chartiers 
township. In 1800 James Keys was united in 
marriage with Jane McClelland, who was born in 
1779, a daughter of James McClelland, of Mt. 
Pleasant township, Washington county, who was a 
native of Ireland, and in an early day settled in 
the locality of Miller's run, Washington county. 
To the union of James and Jane Keys children 
were born as follows: Martha (married to William 
McBride, of Robinson township, this county), Jane 
(married to John McBuriiey),John(dee<-ased I.James 
(a retired farmer of Steubenville, Ohio), William 
(deceased farmer of Kansas), Joseph (residing in 
Smith township) and Ezra (a grocer of Leaveu- 
worth, Kans.). After his marriage to Jane Mc- 
Clelland, James Keys moved to Trumbull county, 
Ohio (then a vast wilderness), remaining there but 
a short time, and then came to Smith township, 
this county, locating on a farm in Cherry Valley. 
In 1822 he represented Washington county in the 
Legislature, serving five years, and then re- 
turned to his farm. He was a brilliant and in- 
tellectual man, a leader in every undertaking for 
the public good. He was a Whig in politics, and 
in religious connection he and his wife were mem- 
bers of the Seceder Church in which he was an elder. 
His wife died in 1838, and after a useful and suc- 
cessful life, he was laid by her side in 1854. 

Joseph Keys was born December 24, 1819, on 
his father's farm, in Cherry Valley, Smith town 
ship, this county, and during his boyhood assisted 
in the usual duties of agricultural life, and at- 
tended the subscription school of his neighbor- 
hood. On January 15, 1843, he was united in 



marriage with Eleanor Smith, who was born in 
1821, a daughter of John Smith, a resident of 
Smith township. The following children have 
been born to this union: Martha J. (deceased wife 
of William Rea), Angeline (widow of A. L. Rea), 
Lizzie (living at home with her father), William J. 
(a farmer of Barton county, Kans.), and John W. 
and Joseph F. (both residing with their parents). 
Mr. and Mrs. Keys located on a farm in Smith 
township after their marriage, and in 1849 moved 
to the valuable farm where Mr. Keys is now re- 
siding. It is one of the finest in the township, 
and comprises 264 acres of prime land. The 
place was entered by Lou Washington, a cousin of 
George Washington, and here for twenty years 
Mr. Keys has carried on a general farming, stock- 
raising and dairying business. In 1886 his resi- 
dence was laid in ashes by a destructive fire, but 
it was immediately rebuilt on a more substantial 
and modern plan. Joseph Keys is one of the most 
solid and prosperous fanners in Smith township. 
In politics he has been a Whig and Republican. 
In 1886 he was called to mourn the loss of his 
wife, who passed from earth after a married life of 
forty-three years. She was a member of the U. P. 
Church, with which he is connected. His home 
is now being cared for by his daughter, Miss Lizzie. 




} H. GREGG. Among the early settlers 
of Washington county, whose deeds 
are an undying monument to their 
memory, were the ancestors of the 
well-known family of which this gentleman is a 
representative. 

In 1791 three brothers — Henry, William and 
John Gregg — left Ireland, the country of their birth, 
and crossed the ocean to America. After a voyage 
of sixteen weeks they all came to Washington 
county, Penn, and settled in East Pike Run town- 
ship, where Henry secured a tract of 349 acres 
called the " Burning Mine," now owned by a Mr. 
Duvall. Henry Gregg served as justice of the 
peace in 1796. He was married to Jane Dowler, 
and of their children, whose names are given, are 
John, Henry, Thomas, Edward, Seth and William. 
The parents died in 1834, in West Pike Run town- 
ship. 

John Gregg, son of Henry, was born and reared 
on the home place in East Pike Run township, 
Washington Co., Penn. He received a thorough 
education, and then learned the blacksmith's trade, 
which he followed several years. When a young 
man he made choice of a helpmeet in the person 
of Edith, daughter of Caleb Woodward, who was 
a native of Scotland, and who, soon after his mar- 
riage, came to America, first locating in Chester 
county, Penn., afterward moving to Brownsville, 
Fayette Co. , where he conducted a mill for many 



596 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



years. He was a strong advocate of the principles 
embodied in the Whig platform, and in religion 
was a member of the Society of Friends. His chil- 
dren were as follows: Milton, Alfred, Caleb, Edith 
(Mrs. Gregg), Charlotte and Sidney. Mr. and 
Mrs. John Gregg settled in West Pike Run town- 
ship, Washington Co., Peun. , where he carried on 
a farm — also conducting a blacksmith shop for 
several years — and in 1859 moved to California, 
Penn. In political opinion he was a stanch sup- 
porter of the Whig and Abolition parties, and in 
religion was an active member of the Taylor M. E. 
Church. His children were Thomas, Caleb and 
W. H. 

W. H. Gregg was born April 6, 1847, in West 
Pike Run township, Washington Co., Penn., and 
remained with his parents until twenty years of 
age. He then worked about four years in the 
lumber business for Powell & Co., of California, 
Penn., afterward entering the employ of Morgan & 
Dixon, with whom he remained five years. In 
1881 he opened his present business in Coal Centre, 
and has by good management and honorable deal- 
ing secured a large and constantly increasing cus- 
tom. On October 20, 1869, he was united in mar- 
riage with Jennie M. , daughter of Robert and 
Augusta Forsythe, of Fayette county, Penn., and 
one son has been born to this union, Edgar F. , a 
graduate of a business college, and now a book- 
keeper in Pittsburgh. Mr. Gregg is deeply inter- 
ested in the success of the Republican party, and 
has rilled various borough offices, serving repeat- 
edly as a member of the school board. He is a 
member of the board of trustees' of the South- 
western State Normal School, and has been a di- 
rector of the First National Bank of California, 
Penn., since its organization. He is a supporter 
of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church . 



d,OHN ELLIOTT STEWART, a prosperous 
young farmer of Jefferson township, is a son 
of Robert Stewart. He traces his lineage 
back through the generations to one Lord 
Stewart, a peer of Scotland, who left his na- 
tive land, and settled in " Foggy Hill," County Ty- 
rone, Ireland. 

James Stewart (the great-grandfather of John 
Elliott) embarked with his family for America on 
the ship " Doras,'' which was boarded, while on the 
voyage, by a British man-of-war. All able-bodied 
men on the "Doras" were impressed into the En- 
glish service, and Robert Stewart (a son of James), 
who was then eighteen years of age, was one of 
them. He served on a British man-of-war for sev- 
eral months, when he was released by strategy, his 
father having prevailed upon a young lady to 
claim him as her husband. The youth then joined 
his parents in Washington county, Penn., settling 
in Smith township, and soon after Robert Stewart 



was united in marriage with Ann McGough, also a 
native of Ireland. Six children were born to their 
union, namely: John, Elizabeth (Mrs. Kidd), 
Sarah, Robert, James and Andrew. 

Robert Stewart was born May 21, 1824, in 
Washington county, Penn. He attended the com- 
mon schools of the neighborhood and assisted in 
the farm duties during his boyhood. In 1852 he 
was married to Miss Sarah Jane Elliott, who bore 
him three children, namely: John Elliott, born 
March 13, 1853; James, born November 25, 1855, 
and Robert, born February 26, 1858. The mother 
of this familv died in 1858, and for his second wife 
Robert Stewart was married to Eliza Orr, of Irish 
descent, who lived but a short time afterward. He 
was then married to Rebecca H., daughter of Will- 
iam Provines, a native of Ireland, who settled in 
Jefferson township. Mrs. Stewart is a member of 
the United Presbyterian Church, of which her hus- 
band is an earnest supporter. In politics he has 
always been a counselor and adviser in the Demo- 
cratic party, and is highly esteemed by all who 
know him. 

John Elliott Stewart was born on the farm 
where his father is now living, and was reared to 
agricultural pursuits, attending the common 
schools of the neighborhood during the winter 
months of his boyhood. He was united in mar- 
riage October 17, 1877, with Belle McKnight, of 
Hickory, Washington county, daughter of William 
McKnight, a native of Ireland. One child came to 
this uuion, Leman E., born September 30, 1878, 
whose mother died November 7, 1879. After her 
death John Elliott Stewart made his home for a 
time with his father, and also traveled through the 
Western States. On his return home he married on 
September 8, 1885, Miss Flora Agnes, daughter of 
H. C. Anderson, a prominent farmer of Cross 
Creek township, and they have had one daughter, 
Roberta Vere, born August 16, 1888. Mr. Stew- 
art is a great reader, and is specially interested in 
literature tending to impart information to the ag- 
ricultural and laboring classes. He owns 140 acres 
of tine farming and grazing land, and is now dep 
uty-master of Washington county for the State 
Grange of Pennsylvania. Although the son of an 
active member of the Democratic party, and him- 
self favoring their platform, Mr. Stewart believes 
in voting for the man rather than the politician, 
regardless of party tenets. He has held several 
township offices, and is very promiueut in all mat- 
ters of common interest to the community. 



ROBERT EMERY, one of the most re- 
spected retired agriculturists of Amwell 
l\ township, was born April 5, 1807, in Can- 
* onsburg, Washington Co., Pennsylvania. 
The first of his ancestors to land in 
America was the grandfather, Thomas Emery, a 




WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



597 



native of the Emerald Isle,wbo, with his family, im- 
migrated to eastern Pennsylvania about 1771. He 
remained there several years, and finally removing 
to Washington county, made his permanent home 
near Canonsburg. The children born to this pio- 
neer were as follows: Joshua, Walter, Phinney, 
Jeremiah, Mrs. Nancy Clark and Mrs. Martha 
Jamison. 

Joshua Emery, father of Robert, in early youth 
learned the shoemaker's trade, and locating in Can- 
onsburg, Washington county, followed the busi- 
ness for several years, at the same time acting as 
riding constable for Washington county. About 
1800 he opened a well known tavern in Canons- 
burg. He was married to a daughter of John 
McGowen, and she bore him the following chil- 
dren: Boyd, Robert, Matthew, Mrs. Nancy 
Anthony, Mrs. Ann Hurst (afterward Mrs. Dr. 
Herriott), Mary (wife of Mr. Brown, of Valparaiso, 
Ind.), Phinney, Thomas, Gibbs and Mrs. Martha 
Pierce, of whom Robert, Ann, Mary and Martha 
are yet living. 

Robert Emery lived in Canonsburg, Washing- 
ton Co., Penn., until 1835, when he removed to 
Strabane township, and in 1844 located on the 
present home of the family in Amwell township. 
In 1836 he was united in marriage with Lucinda 
Workman, who was born May 15, 1814, a daugh- 
ter of Robert and Rebecca Workman. Mr. and 
Mrs. Emery have been blessed with the following 
children: Boyd, born July 17, 1837; Mary Jane, 
born August 3, 1830; Georgie Ann, born October 
21, 1841 (now deceased); James K., born August 
21, 1844, and William, born April 4, 1856 (now 
deceased). 

Boyd % Emery, the eldest sou of Robert and 
Lucinda (Workman) Emerv, was married Novem- 
ber 26, 1863, to Martha H. Thomas, and their 
children are William S. , born August 19, 1864, 
died November 14, 1870; Harriet L. , born Novem- 
ber 30, 1867, wife of John C. McCoy, and James 
W., born February 2, 1870. Boyd Emery has 
been auditor of Amwell township fifteen consecu- 
tive years, and his services have been eminently 
satisfactory to all. He and his father own a nice 
farm situated two and a half miles from the 
borough of Washington, where they are very suc- 
cessfully engaged in agricultural pursuits. The 
family are all members of the Disciple (or Chris- 
tian) Church, and are honest, upright people, 
serving their Creator in their daily lives, as well 
as by their profession of faith. 



\ILLIAM H. PRY, a successful young 
agriculturist of Cross Creek township, is a 
\fi' son of Abraham Pry, whose father was a 
native of Virginia, and was married in 
that State to a Miss Barnes. The children born to 




their union were John, Abraham, William L., Eliza 
(Mrs. John Powelson) and Elizabeth (Mrs. Samuel 
Pascal, of Cross Creek township). The father was 
a Democrat in politics. 

Abraham Pry was born November 10, 1813, in 
Hampshire county, W. Va. The father died when 
Abraham was but four years of age, and the child 
was left to struggle through the perplexities of 
boyhood unaided, but he secured an education by 
dint of perseverance and energy, and when about 
twenty-two years of age came to Washington coun- 
ty, settling in Cross Creek township. He was 
there married to Rachel, daughter of David Mc- 
Clurg, of Cross Creek township, and they settled 
on the farm where they are yet living. The fol- 
lowing children have been born to their union: 
David M., Catherine J. (deceased), John W., Will- 
iam H. and Joseph M. (twins, the latter of whom 
is deceased), Abraham, Cynthia J. (deceased), 
Anna M. (deceased), Ambrose (living in Iowa) and 
Francis H. The father of this family was orig- 
inally a Democrat, then a Whig, finally uniting 
with the Republican party, whose principles he 
now supports. He attends the Cross Creek Pres- 
byterian Church, contributing liberally to its main- 
tenance. 

William H. Pry was born September 11, 1847, 
on the old homestead of the Pry family, situated 
half a mile south of Cross Creek village. His boy- 
hood was passed in attending the common schools 
and assisting on the farm. On October 7, 1869, 
he was united in marriage with Miss E. J. McFar- 
land, who was born in 1851, daughter of Andrew 
McFarlaud, of Cross Creek township, this county, 
a tailor by trade. Mr. and Mrs. Pry began their 
wedded life in Cross Creek village, and remained 
there twelve years, Mr. Pry meanwhile assisting 
his father on the farm. He then moved to the 
farm where he is now living, having erected a fine 
home and out-buildings upon the place. They 
have three children: an infant, born in October, 
1870; Luella Belle, born February 8, 1874; and 
Mary R., born March 15, 1879. Of these children, 
Luella Belle is married to Elza M. Dowler, a prom- 
ising young farmer of Cross Creek township, ami 
an estimable young man. In politics Mr. Pry has 
followed in the footsteps of his forefathers, and 
votes the Republican ticket. 



TfOHN MORGAN SHARP is one of the lead- 

I ing and influential agriculturists of Cross 

^ J Creek township, and owns an extensive and 

^^ valuable tract of land, which yields him a 

large annual profit. He is a son of John F. 

Sharp, whose father's name was also John. 

John Sharp (the grandfather of subject) was 
born January 1, 1774, in New Jersey, where his 
boyhood was passed, afterward moving to Fayette 



598 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



county, Perm. On January 26, 1797, he was 
wedded in Pennsylvania to Miss Hannah Freeman, 
who was born March 26, 1778, and after marriage 
fchey made their first home on a farm in Fayette 
county, where four children were born to them, 
namely: Mary (wife of James Gardener, of West 
Virginia), born November 17, 1797; John F. , born 
February 20, 1801; Levi, born July 1, 1804, and 
Ruth (wife of Samuel Gardener, near Eldersville), 
born August 18, 1806. Afterward the family 
moved to Washington county, Penn., settling on a 
farm near Eldersville, where the rest of their chil- 
dren were born, as follows: Edmund (living in 
Sharptown, Ind.), born November 18, 1808; Sarah 
(married to Alexander Walker, of Jefferson town- 
ship, this county), born May 2, 1811; Jane (wife 
of John Steene, residing near Eldersville, this 
county), born July 14, 1813; Hannah (married to 
John Wheeler, a tailor of Jefferson township, this 
county), born March 9, 1817, ami Elizabeth (Mrs. 
John Stephenson, alsoof Jefferson township), born 
March 23. 1819. John Sharp died September 11, 
I860, having been preceded by his wife, Hannah, 
July 26, 1838, and both are buried in Cross Creek 
graveyard. 

John F. Sharp was seven years of age when he 
came to Washington county with his parents. 
About 1826 he was united in marriage in West 
Virginia, near Steubeuville, Ohio, with Miss Nar- 
cissa Atkinson, daughter of Thomas Atkinson, and 
settled on a farm which he purchased from his 
father, and upon which they lived over sixty years. 
The children born to this marriage were Eliza J. 
(Mrs. Nathaniel Halley, of Owen county, Ind.), 
born December 18, 1827, Thomas A., born May 
14, 1829 (married to Olivia Walker, daughter of 
James Walker, of Jefferson township), Absalom, 
born March 3, 1831 (married to Lucinda Stephens, 
and living in Indiana), Hannah A., born March 18, 
1834 (wife of J. G. Walker, son of James Walker, 
of Jefferson township), John M. (whose name opens 
this sketch), Harriet N. , born April 3, 1843, died 
July 13, 1844, and Sarah M., born June 28, 1846, 
died February 11, 1850, both of whom were buried 
in Cross Creek graveyard. The mother of these 
children passed from eartli January 10, 1847, and 
was laid to rest in Cross Creek graveyard. Mr. 
Sharp was afterward married to Maria Price, of 
Perry county, Ohio, to which union three children 
were born: Mary E. (wife of W. D. McKay), born 
May 30, 1850; Clara R. (wife of Thomas Lindsey, 
of Steubeuville, Ohio), and Ella S. (married to 
John M. Russell, of Smith township, this county). 
John F. Sharp died December 19, 1887, and was 
buried in Cross Creek graveyard. 

John Morgan Sharp was born March 7, 1838, 
on the home farm in Cross Creek township, where 
his youth was passed. On December 22, 1859, 
he was united in marriage with Miss Sarah M. 



Virtue, of Cross Creek township, who was born 
January 23, 1842, daughter of James and Mary 
Virtue. William Virtue, father of James, came 
from Ireland in pioneer days. To the union of 
John Morgan and Sarah M. Sharp the following 
children have been born: John Freeman, born 
March 18, 1861; Mary B., born July 12, 1863 
(wife of Charles W. Scott, residing near Bethel 
Church, Jefferson township); Flora A., born Au- 
gust 5, 1865; Hattie May, born December 6, 1868; 
Jessie Leola, born March 14, 1876, and Jennie E., 
born October 20, 1880. After their marriage Mr. 
and Mrs. Sharp resided for twenty years on a farm 
in the vicinity, belonging to his father, when, upon 
the death of his father, Mr. Sharp moved to the 
old home farm near his former residence, and has 
since remained on the homestead, which he pur- 
chased under authority of his father's will at $66 
per acre, at which it was appraised. He carried 
on an extensive agricultural business, making a 
specialty of sheep raising, and now owns 223 acres 
of land, also an interest in 550 acres of his father's 
estate. In politics he follows the example of his 
forefathers, voting the straight Democratic ticket, 
and he has held various offices of trust in his town- 
ship. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church 
in Cross Creek village. He is one of the original 
stockholders, incorporators and directors in " The 
Cross Creek Cemetery Company." 



TiOHN W. REED, a prominent and influential 
I agriculturist of East Pike Run township, 
\t)j is a grandson of Samuel and Maria J. Reed, 
^^ who lived in Allegheny county, Penn., the 
grandfather dying in December, 1869, in his 
eighty-seventh year, the grandmother at the age 
of about seventy-live years. 

Thomas R. Reed, the eldest son of Samuel and 
Maria J. Reed, was born October 31, 1816, and in 
early life learned the trade of blacksmith, at which 
he is still working. On September 6. 1S3S, he 
was married to Mary Ann Pyle, who was eighteen 
years old at the time, and to this union were born 
children as follows: Joseph F., born October 11, 
1839, by trade a blacksmith; Samuel H., bora 
March 25, 1841, following carpentry; John W., 
born February 6, 1843; William E., born Decem- 
ber 5, 1844; Boyd E., born April 30, 1846, a 
blacksmith by trade; James W., born Jul] 6, 
1848, by occupation a plasterer and contractor; 
Thomas Roland, born June 3, 1850, died March 
21, 1866; Maria E., bom May 21, 1852; Mary •!., 
born September 17, 1854, died March 10, 1855, 
Albenah A., born March 20, 1856; Cyrus S. , born 
February 20, 1858, now a blacksmith; Ida ML, 
born February 18, I860; and Alfred F., born July 
19, 1S62, also a blacksmith. The mother of this 
family died October 30, 1878. The father now 




dJn 7f^<^ 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



601 



lives in Irwin, Westmoreland Co., Perm. He 
votes with the Democratic party, and for twenty 
years was a justice of the peace at Allenport, 
Washington Co., Penn. ; in religious faith he is a 
member of the Baptist Church. 

John W. Reed was reared to manhood in the 
town of Allenport (now Independence), where his 
early education was received. He then learned 
blacksmithing and boiler making, which trades he 
followed until purchasing the farm. In November, 
1865, he was married to Sarah A. Wilson, adopted 
daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Stroud, both de- 
ceased. Mr. and Mrs. Wilson were the parents of 
five children, viz. : Charles, residing in Belle Ver- 
non, Fayette county; Emily, wife of Joseph Eller, 
of Belle Vernon, Fayette county; Mary J., married 
to Nathan Werrell, of Fayette county; Jemima, 
wife of Abraham Tinley, of Bentleyville, Washing- 
ton county, and Sarah A. (Mrs. Reed). Mr. and 
Mrs. Reed reside on the home farm of 116 acres, 
located two miles southeast of Coal Centre, Penn. 
During 1862-63 he worked in the navy yard at 
Pittsburgh. He and his wife are members of the 
Ebenezer M. E. Church. In politics Mr. Reed 
affiliates with the Democratic party, is interested 
in the progress and welfare of his community, aud 
lias served as school director. He is one of the 
directors of the California National Bank. His 
house and surroundings are a credit to the owner, 
and place him among the thrifty and progressive 
men of the county. Mr. Reed has resided upon 
his present home since 1890. 



If B. KAHL, son of J. D. Kahl, a native of 
Adams county, Penn. , was born September 
t[\\ 26, 1855, the eldest of his father's family. 
^^ He was educated in the schools of California, 
this county, and taught for seven years. On 
December 29, 1881, he was married to Jeanette L. , 
daughter of David, and granddaughter of Robert 
Clark. The latter was born in 1784, in Pennsyl- 
vania, and married Jeanette Paxton, who also was 
born in 1784. They settled in Nottingham township, 
where children were born as follows: Margaret, 
born in 1806, died in 1853 (married in 1836 to 
John Preston); Jane, born in 1808, died in 1853 
(married in 1843 to Adam Morrow); Andrew, born 
in 1810, died in 1874; Robert, born in 1812, died 
in 1892 (married in 1844 to Margaret Mcllvaine); 
Paxton, born in 1814, died in 1838; John B., born 
in 1816, died in 1833; Harriet, born in 1818, died 
in 1841 (married in 1841 to Samuel Morrison); 
Eliza, born in 1820 (married in 1843 to John Mor- 
rison), living in Virginia; Sarah, born in 1822, died 
in 1882 (married in 1846 to F. C. Morrison); Cas- 
endana, born in 1823 (married in 1846 to David 
Aiken), living in Washington, D. C, and David, of 
whom further mention is made. The mother of 



this family died in 1866, having been preceded by 
the father in 1850. 

David Clark, youngest son of Robert and Jean- 
ette (Paxton) Clark, was born in 1824. In 1854 
he was united in marriage with Julia A. Lyda, who 
was born in 1832 in this county. He was a farm- 
er, and in 1862 enlisted in Company D, P. V., 
Ringgold Battalion. He returned home in June, 
1863, and died in July of the same year, leaving 
two children: Frank and Jeanette L. (Mrs. Kahl). 

To the marriage of J. B. and Jeanette L. (Clark) 
Kahl one son has been born: Maunice C. 



JOHN WELCH was born January 12, 1800, 
near McConuell's Mill, this county. Little 
else is known of his parents' history except 
that they were Scotch emigrants, and became 
pioneer settlers of Washington county. After the 
death of his father, which occurred when he was a 
small boy, John Welch went to live with a brother, 
Robert. In 1821 he was married to Elizabeth 
Woodburn, who was born in 1802, daughter of 
Thomas W. Woodburn, and to their union children 
were born as follows: Mary (Mrs. Walter Denny, 
of Independence township); James M. ; Margaret 
(widow of Capt. John F. Beatty, of Carrollton, 
Ohio); Jane (Mrs. Thomas Harsha); John D. (a 
farmer of Harrison county, Ohio); Elizabeth (wife 
of W. G. Fee, of Cherokee, Iowa); Robert C. (de- 
ceased, a U. P. minister); Sarah Ann (Mrs. Will- 
iam Cockins, of Los Angeles, Cal.), and Thomas 
(deceased). During hrs married life Mr. Welch 
resided in Chartiers township, engaged in farming 
and stock raising. Politically he was formerly a 
Whig, and then a Republican, taking an active 
part in the abolition of slavery. He died in 1870, 
and was joined by his wife in 1873. 

James M. Welch, one of the successful farmers 
of Independence township, who has retired from 
active life, was born October 2, 1823, in Chartiers 
township, on the home farm. He attended the 
common schools, and assisted with the farm work 
until twenty-one years of age, when, becoming dis- 
contented at home, he purchased and located on a 
piece of land, his sister acting as hig housekeeper. 
He afterward sold this property at a profit, and re- 
turned to the home farm. On April 14, 1853, he 
was married to Jane Lee, who was born March 23, 
1S28, daughter of John aud Mary (Park) Lee, and 
they have had the following children : Willard Lee, 
John S. (who died in infancy), Melissa J. (deceased), 
Joseph A. (mentioned below), Annie (Mrs. Finley 
Liggett, of Walurba, Penn.), Laura May (living 
at home), Mary W. (deceased in youth) and Lizzie 
M. (who died in youth). After his marriage, Mr. 
Welch resided eleven years near the home farm in 
Chartiers township, and in 1864 purchased the "Old 
Garrett" farm, lying in the eastern central portion 



602 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



of Independence township, upon which he resided 
until 1890, when he purchased an adjoining tract 
on the western side, where he is now living a re- 
tired life. By dint of energy and perseverance, 
Mr. Welch now owns over 325 acres of land iu In- 
dependence township, and has been greatly as- 
Bisted by his faithful wife, who has been for several 
years a sufferer from rheumatism. Mr. Welch has 
also failed in health. Politically he was first a 
W'hig, and now votes the Republican ticket. Both 
he and his wife are members of the Mt. Hope U. 
P. Church. 

Willard Lee Welch, eldest son of James M. and 
Jane (Lee) Welch, was born January 11, 1854, on 
the home farm in Chartiers township He received 
a common-school education, and afterward at- 
tended Canonsburg Academy, and the Curry In- 
stitute, of Pittsburgh, Penn. On September 27. 
1881, he was united in marriage with HattieGour- 
ley, who was born July 4, 1859, a native of Brooke 
county, W. Va. , daughter of James M. and Cath- 
erine (Walker) Gourley. After his marriage Mr. 
Welch located on the " Andrew Ralston " farm, in 
the eastern part of Independence township, and 
has since worked upon that place, which adjoins 
the home of his father and brother. His farm is 
one of the best in the township, and he has erected 
a fine dwelling and other buildings upon it. In 
politics he was formerly a Republican, but is now 
a stanch member of the Prohibition party. He 
and his wife are members of the Mt. Hope Church, 
in which he is an elder. 

Joseph A. Welch, a brother of Willard Lee, was 
born January 14, 1859, iu Chartiers township, 
where he lived five years, and then came with his 
parents to Independence township, locating on the 
place he now owns. He received a common-school 
education, and worked on the farm. On Septem- 
ber 25, 1890, he was married to Mary B. McNary, 
who was born November 29, L865, daughter of ex- 
county commissioner McNary, of Cross Creek town- 
ship. He then located on the home farm, his par- 
ents moving to one adjoining it, and now deals 
extensively in stock. Politically he is a Repub- 
lican. He and his wife are members of the Mt. 
Hope U. P. Church. 



Miss Eleanor Morton, a native of the same place. 
She died in 1862, leaving five children, of whom 
J. K. (the third son) is the only one yet living. After 
the death of his first wife Jacob Bedall was married 
to Miss Morton, and for his third choice selected 
Eliza Jane, daughter of John and Phoebe Richards, 
early settlers of Washington county. In politics 
Mr. Bedall was a Whig and Republican, and in 
religious faith a member of the Methodist Epis- 
copal Church. He died in November, 1887. 

J. K. Bedall was born July 1, 1854, on his 
present farm in Fallowfield township, Washington 
Co., Penn., and attended the district schools of the 
vicinity. On April 14, 1892, he was united in 
marriage with Anna Eller, daughter of Joseph and 
Emily (Wilson) Eller, all of whom were residents 
of Belle Vernon, Fayette Co., Penn. Mrs. Bedall 
is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church; 
in political opinion Mr. Bedall is an advocate of 
the principles embodied in the Republican party. 



J I K. BEDALL, son of Jacob, and grandson 
of James Bedall, is a native of Washington 
I county, Penn. James Bedall was born and 
reared in eastern Pennsylvania, where he was 
married to Elizabeth Moller. They came to 
Washington county many years ago, and locating 
in Fallowfield township, died on the old homestead. 
Jacob Bedall, son of James and Elizabeth, was 
born in 1809, on the old place in Fallowfield town- 
ship, Washington Co. , Penn. He always resided 
on the home farm, to which he brought his bride, 



JOHN HORN, a worthy representative of one 
I of the oldest families of West Bethlehem 
J township, is a son of Adam Horn, who was 
a son of John Horn, Si\, who was a son of 
Christopher Horn, who was the first of the name 
to locate in West Bethlehem township. 

On February 28, 1785, Christopher Horn 
patented 340 acres of land on Ten-Mile creek, 
which he named "Ballimore." [The original 
patent for this land is now in the possession of 
John Horn, the subject of this sketch.] Here he 
located, cleared and improved the land, and the 
old home he erected, built of logs and slabs, is 
still standing, considered to be the oldest house in 
the township. By trade he was a blacksmith, and 
he made all the nails, hinges, etc., used in the con- 
struction of the building. He had two children. 
John and Jacob, between whom his property was 
divided at his death. Of these John was born and 
grew to manhood on his father's tract, his educa- 
tion being such as the period afforded. In his 
youth he married a Miss Barbara Young, by whom 
he had nine children, viz. : Jacob, John, Chris- 
topher, Jr., David, Adam, Samuel, Mary, Elizabeth 
and Catherine, all now deceased except Samuel, 
who is a farmer of Greene county, Penn. The 
mother of this family dying, the father subse- 
quently married Mary Shape, and the children by 
this union were: Susanna, Lydia, Leah, Joel and 
Joshua, all yet living except Susanna. 

Adam Horn, father of John Horn, the subject 
of this sketch, was born on this original tract of 
land, and his boyhood was passed in assisting his 
father in tilling the soil, and in obtaining such an 
education as the subscription schools of that day 
afforded. In his youth he learned the trade of a 
cooper, at which he was employed for a time, but 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



603 



abandoning this occupation he turned his attention 
to farming and stock raising, at which he was suc- 
cessful and prosperous. He purchased the farm 
now owned by his son J. M. Horn, and erected 
thereon a large and elegant frame residence, and 
upon this farm he lived respected and honored by 
all until death closed his earthly labors. He was 
a consistent and liberal member of the Lutheran 
denomination, and Trinity Evangelical Lutheran 
Church was erected on land donated by him to 
that Society. He married Hester Bunnell, daugh- 
ter of John Bonnell, then a citizen of West Beth- 
lehem township, but later a resident of Ohio. To 
this union were born the following children: Mor- 
gan, John, Cephas, James Madison, Simeon B., 
Adam, Ann, Elizabeth and Maria; of whom are 
living John, James Madison (a merchant near 
Zollarsville), Ann (wife of H.- White, also residing 
near Zollarsville), and Elizabeth. 

John Horn was born September 28, 1833, on the 
farm adjoining the property on which he now 
resides, and grew to manhood in West Bethlehem 
township. Being the chief assistant of his father 
in his various vocations, his education was some- 
what limited, but he succeeded in securing not a 
little practicable learning. At the breaking out 
of the war of the Rebellion, he enlisted in Com- 
pany D, Eighty-fifth Regiment, P. V. I., under 
Capt. Horn, a cousin, Col. Howell commanding. 
His company was encamped at Uniontown, Peun. 
He was in the following engagements, led by Gen. 
MacClellan: Yorktown, Williamsburg, Fair Oaks 
and that known as the Seven Days' Fight before 
Richmond. On account of impaired health, Mr. 
Horn was sent to the general hospital at David's 
Island, N. Y. , from which he was dischargedafter 
a year's service, and returning home to West 
Bethlehem township, he was for nearly a year un- 
able to work. After a time, regaining his strength, 
he resumed his regular vocation, that of a farmer, 
and he has also been engaged extensively in dealing 
in wool for the past twenty-live years. On May 16, 
1872, Mr. Horn was married to Eliza J. Gayman, 
daughter of Joseph and Susanna Gayman, of 
West Bethlehem township. Her grandparents 
were Daniel and Olivia Gayman, who were pio- 
neers in this neighborhood and settled in Ten 
Mile Valley, not far from the present location of 
the village of Zollarsville, at an early date. Mrs. 
Horn has four brothers, viz. : Jacob, Thaddeus D. , 
James and Daniel, and one sister named Emma. 
They all reside in Washington county, Penn. Mr. 
Horn and his wife have the following named 
children: Henry D., Joseph G. , Alice M. , Iris B. 
and Eugene, all unmarried and living at home with 
their parents. Politically Mr. Horn is a Repub- 
lican, but he has never sought office. He is 
now filling with credit and ability the office of 
school director of the township in which he re- 



sides. His wife, who is a lady well known for her 
many virtues, her hospitality and benevolence, is 
a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 



JjACOB ANDREWS, a representative of one of 
the oldest and most highly esteemed pio- 
neer families of Smith township, is de- 
scended from Irish ancestry. Jeremiah 
Andrews, his grandfather, was born, reared 
and married in Ireland, coming to America long 
before 1800. They located on a wild piece of for- 
est land, lying about three miles north of Bur- 
gettstown, Washingtown Co., Penn., no improve- 
ments having then been made. Here a rude cabin 
was hastily erected, and the couple settled per- 
manently in their pioneer home, where children 
were born as follows: Matthew, Jeremiah, Joseph, 
Robert, John, Elizabeth (wife of Nathan Scott), 
Catherine (Mrs. Scott) and Nancy (married to 
Andrew Carlile). 

Jeremiah Andrews, son of Jeremiah, was born 
about 1790, on the home farm in Smith township, 
where he was reared to agricultural pursuits, re- 
ceiving a meager education at the common schools 
of the period. He was first married to a Miss 
Carlisle, of this county, whose children were Jere- 
miah (deceased, a farmer of Beaver county, Penn., 
who afterward moved to Columbiana county, Ohio), 
John C. (also a farmer of Beaver county, who 
lived in Columbiana county, Ohio, for a time, 
afterward returning to Beaver county, Penn., where 
he died), and Isabella (deceased wife of William 
Nichols, a stone mason, who lived in Beaver 
county, Penn., for some time, and then moved to 
Kentucky). The mother of these children died, 
and for his second wife Jeremiah Andrews was 
united in marriage with Catherine Neiswonger, of 
Hancock county, W. Va., and the following chil- 
dren were born to their union: Rachel (Mrs. Francis 
McBride, of Ashland county, Ohio), Jacob (sub- 
ject of this sketch), Elizabeth (wife of James Mc- 
Millen, of Columbiana county, Ohio), Joseph (a 
farmer of Beaver county, Penn. ), George H. (a 
farmer in California), Susanna (wife of Capt. J. 
H. Melvin, of Fairview, W. Va. ) and Catherine 
(married to W. W. Morrow, of Wellsville, Ohio). 
After his marriage Jeremiah Andrews followed 
agricultural pursuits on a farm near Fairview, Han- 
cock Co., W. Va. He was very successful in his 
business, possessing energy, enterprise and good 
management, and at the time of his death was one 
of the wealthiest citizens of his neighborhood. 
Politically fie was a lifelong Democrat, but voiced 
his opinion by his vote alone, leaving the rising 
generation to choose for themselves their political 
preference. He was a member and pillar of the U. 
P. Church, with which his wife was also connected. 
He died in 1856, being followed by his wife in 



604 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1875, and the remains of both were laid to rest in 
Tomlinson's Run cemetery, Beaver county, Penn. 

Jacob Andrews was born September 6, 1828, in 
Hancock county, W. Va. , whore he received a 
common-school education. In 1849 he and his 
half brother, John C. , went t'o Columbiana county, 
Ohio, and followed farming, their sister Rachel 
acting as housekeeper for her brothers uutil her 
marriage, when Elizabeth (another sister) supplied 
her place. In 1856 Jacob sold his interest in the 
farm, returning to Hancock county, W. Va. , where 
he followed agriculture a short time. On May 3, 
L857, he was united in marriage with Hannah 
Carlile, of Columbiana county, Ohio. She was 
born March 22, 1838, being the tenth in a family 
of fourteen children born to John and Margaret 
(Hephner) Carlile. John Carlile was a native of 
New Jersey, and when but a boy came to Colum- 
biana county, Ohio, with his parents, Daniel Car- 
lile and his wife, early settlers of that county. In 
early life John was married to Margaret Hephner, 
daughter of Henry and Mary (Shoemaker) Heph- 
ner, the former a native of Germany who settled 
in Columbiana county, Ohio, in an early day. 

The following children have been born to Jacob 
and Hannah (Carlile) Andrews: Josephine (de- 
ceased in youth); William D. (a conductor on the 
P. C. C. & St. Louis R. R.); George W. (a clerk 
in the shipping department of the Edgar Thomson 
SteelWorks, Hraddock, Penn.); Luella (deceased 
in infancy); Lizzie (wife of Barcley S. Fennimore, 
of Jewett, Ohio); John H. (a conductor on the N. 
Y. C. & H. II. R. R); Mm, da B. (wife of D. C. 
Fulton, a farmer of Hanover township. Washing 
ton county), and Harvey (deceased at the age of 
seventeen years).' Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Andrews 
began their married life on a farm in Beaver coun- 
ty, Penn.. and in 1864 came to Washington county, 
locating on the farm adjoining Burgettstown, 
Smith township, where they are yet living. He 
has been a very successful farmer, but of recent 
years has taken no active part in the work of the 
place. In politics Jacob Andrews has always been 
a stanch Democrat. He and his wife are both 
highly esteemed citizens of the community in which 
they reside. 



JAMES M. ROSS is a prominent representa 
live of one of the oldest, pioneer families in 
Washington county. In L728 one John Ross 
left the shores of Erin to seek a home in 
the New World. On arriving in America he 
seii led permanently on a farm near d-ermantown, 
Peon., where the following children were born and 
reared: Thomas, William, John, James, George, 
Stephen, Sarah, -lane, Margaret and Mary. 

Thomas boss was horn in Chester county, Penn., 
and in 17M came to a farm near Pittsburgh. In 



early life he was married to Jane Miller, a native 
of Ireland, who bore him eight children, viz. : 
Joshua, Jane, Thomas, John, James, Sarah, Mar- 
garet and Nancy, all deceased. The father was a 
soldier in the Revolutinary war. 

Joshua Ross was born about the year 1781, in 
Chester county, Penn., and came with his parents 
to the place near Pittsburgh, where his youth was 
passed. In 1810 he was united in marriage with 
Margaret, daughter of Samuel Emmet, and their 
children were Rebecca, Thomas, William B., James 
M., Samuel B. (now living in the Twenty-first 
Ward of Pittsburgh, Penn.), and John and Johnston 
(twins). Mr. Ross was a farmer, and lived on a 
place which is now the Twenty first Ward of Pitts- 
burgh. In politics he was a Democrat, and in re- 
ligion a member of the Presbyterian Church. 

James M. Ross was born in 1819, in what is now 
the Twenty-tirst Ward of Pittsburgh. He was 
reared to agricultural pursuits, and worked by the 
month for four or five years. When a young man 
he was married to Sarah, daughter of John Mouck, 
of Washington county, Penn., aud their children 
have been born as follows: John, Joseph (de- 
ceased), William E., Lewis, George B. , Mary and 
Adelaide. In IMS Mr. Ross came to his present 
farm in Peters township, which he purchased in 
1855. He is actively interested in the welfare of 
the Republican party, and in religious faith is a 
member of the United Presbyterian Church at 
Peters Creek. 



PxOLLOCK FAMILY, Historical Sketch of. 
' The Pollock family were originally natives 
of Scotland, whence one Samuel Pollock, 
one of those hardy Scotch-Irish Presbyte- 
rian pioneers, emigrated many years ago, 
landing in America, there making a new home in 
the New World. He was born, reared ami married 
in Scotland, whence, prior to the Revolutionary 
war, he and his wife and a brother came to this 
country. They landed in New York, where the 
brothers separated, thus losing forever, all trace of 
each other. The one turned his face southward, 
while Samuel and his wife. Jane, proceeded west- 
ward to Washington county, Penn., being among 
the earliest settlers in the locality. Here he pat- 
ented a tract of land called "Plentj " (now known 
as the James Pollock farm), situated near Clokej 
ville, in North Strabane township, and containing 
148 acres, where he passed the rest of his active 
pioneer life. Tie' land was wild and uncultivated 
when he came to it, and he set to work at once, to 
make improvements on it. Indians and wild ani- 
mals were numerous, and caused frequent annoy- 
ances; but the hardy settlers were patient as well 
as brave, and time brought them a rich harvest, as 
a reward for their early years of toil aud danger. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



605 



They were members of the Covenanter Church. 

-Samuel Pollock was a man of more than ordinary in- 
telligence, force and executive ability. At his 
death he left three sons — John, Samuel and Will- 
iam — and four daughters — Margaret, Jane, Nancy 
and Grizella. Of the daughters the following Is a 
brief sketch: Margaret married Alexander Mc- 
Nary, and located near Cadiz, Ohio; Jane married 
John Crowe, and resided in Butler county, Peun. ; 
Nancy became the wife of James Pursley, and lived 
near West Alexander, this county; Grizella was 
married to Robert Johnston, their residence being 
some five miles west of Washington on the Middle- 
town road. Of the sons: John never left the pa- 
ternal home, dying there unmarried; Samuel mar- 

jried Ellen Young, and there were born to them 
four sons — John, James, Robert and Samuel- and 
five daughters — Jane, Betsey, Sarah, Margaret and 
Martha. Jane married James Linn, and resided 
near Washington, the county seat, the place now 
known as Linutown; Betsey married John Pollock, 
a brother of James Pollock, who at one time owned 
a large flouring-mill on Brush run, near Thompson- 
ville, this county, and who at the time of his death 
was treasurer of Washington county, and father of 
A. W. Pollock, who succeeded him as county treas- 
urer, and who is at present a lumber merchant at 
Washington, Penn.; Sarah married Hon. Mat hew 
Linn, and they passed their wedded lives on what 
is known as the ''Linn Homestead," North Stra- 
bane township; Margaret (unmarried) died about 
sis years ago; Martha married James Harbison, 
and lived in Bakerstown, Butler Co. , Penn. She 
is still living, making her home with her son, 
.Samuel, in Bellevue, Allegheny Co., Penn. Of the 
sons: John married Nancy Hayes, and located 
near Uniontown, Belmont Co., Ohio; James and 
Robert both went west and settled near Sparta, 
111. (were both married); Samuel married Nancy 
Breckenridge, and their home was in New Castle, 
Pennsylvania. 

William Pollock, third son of Samuel and Jane 
Pollock, was born in 1781. He married Nancy, 
daughter of John McNary, and they had children 
as follows: Jane, John, Samuel, James and Mal- 
colm Boyd, the latter born February 9, 1817, and 
died July 15, 1825. (A record of the others fol- 
lows this paragraph). William Pollock was born 
and spent all his days on the original homestead 
near Clokeyville, which he willed to his youngest 
son, James, who now lives thereon, and which 
property has been in possession of, and repre- 
sented by, the Pollock family for five continuous 
generations. To his son Samuel he willed the 
Alexander Scott farm, containing 208 acres, situ- 
ated on the State road in North Strabane town- 
ship. To John and Jane he bequeathed their 
amount in money, obligating Samuel and James 
to pay them a specified amount, besides giving 



them furniture, which they did. William Pollock 
was a member of the Associate (Seceder) Church. 
W T hen the Pigeon Creek Congregation was organ- 
ized he was elected one of the ruling elders, which 
office he filled till the close of his life. Politically 
he was an active worker in the Whig party. He 
had an ox-mill built on his farm, which is still 
standing, and which is now used by his grandson 
as a sheep house. This mill was the first of the 
kind in the county, and was erected by a man 
named John Calhoun, theu living on Peters creek. 
It was a tramp-mill of peculiar construction, very 
unlike the tramp-mill of the present day. The 
platform on which the oxen tramped was circular, 
about thirty feet in diameter, into part of which 
was placed a shaft at an angle of fifty-five degrees. 
The stone burrs were from three to three and one- 
half feet in diameter. Dog tramp mills were made 
in much the same manner. This old ox-mill 
ground the grain for many years, and as it was fur- 
nished with great power, people came to it from 
considerable distance with their grists packed on 
horseback. Nancv (McNary), wife of William 
Pollock, departed this life August 17, 1834; Will- 
iam (her husband) died August 3, 1856, in the 
seventy-third year of his age. His remains were 
laid beside those of his wife in what was theu 
called the Associate graveyard, now known as 
Oak Spring Cemetery, near Canonsburg. 

Jane Pollock, only daughter and eldest child of 
William and Nancy Pollock, was born January 24, 
1810. Her education was limited to common-school 
instruction, which was the best afforded ladies 
of her day. She married Rev. James Wallace, and 
went with him to Logan county, Ohio. Mr. Wallace 
was born November 111, 1801, in York, Penn. He 
was graduated at Jefferson College, Canonsburg, 
in 1827; studied theology under Rev. Alexander 
Bullions, D. D. , at Cambridge, N. Y. ; he was li- 
censed July '. I, is:in,l>\ the Philadelphia Presbytery; 
was ordained October 25, I 832, by the Miami Valley 
Presbytery, and at the ordination was installed 
pastor of the Dorby and Cherokee (now Hunts- 
ville) Congregations in Logan county, Ohio. In 
1839 he was released form Dorby, and gave three 
fourths of his time to Huntsville, and one-fourth 
to Bellefontaine. On April 10, 1861, he resigned 
his Huntsville charge, on account of infirmities, but 
preached occasionally as his health permitted, 
making his home at Huntsville, then Bellefontaine, 
and finally Belle Centre, all in Ohio. He was a 
most excellent man, much blessed in his ministry 
and greatly devoted to his work. The last year of 
his life he spent in reading the Old Testament en- 
tirely through in the original Hebrew. He died 
after a few hours' illness, November 30, 1878, at the 
residence of his son-in-law, W. W. Templeton, 
Huntsville, where he had gone on a visit; his wife 
had died several years previous, in 1863; their 



606 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



remains lie side by side in the cemetery at Huuts- 
ville, Ohio. They had five children: two daughters 
--Mary and Nancy — and three sons — William Pol- 
lock. David and A. Collins. Mary married W. W. 
Templeton, an elder in the United Presbyterian 
Church, and resides near Huutsville, Ohio; Nancy 
married T. L. Baird, and lives in Allerton, Iowa 
(He is a farmer and a member of Session in the 
Allerton U. P. Congregation); William Pollock 
was a member of Company D, Forty -fifth Ohio 
Volunteer Infantry, was wounded in the battle of 
Knoxville, Tenu., November IN. 1863, and died 
from the effects November 29, 1N(1: J >; David mar- 
ried Jennie Heed, and lives on part of the Wallace 
homestead farm near Huutsville, Ohio; A. Collins, 
married to Arabella Peoples, is a druggist located 
in Bellefontaine, Ohio. 

John Pollock, oldest sou of William and Nancy 
Pollock, was born in January, 1811. In boyhood 
he attended the subscription schools of his time, 
which was the extent of his educational advantages, 
but being possessed with considerable natural abil- 
ity he was enabled to meet the demands of life 
with a marked degree of success. When a young 
man he went to Logan county, Ohio, where he took 
up land, and in the spring of 1835 he married Jane 
Elder, a native of said county. To them were 
born eight children — three sons and five daughters 
— namely: Rebecca, Nancy, Margaret, Mary and 
Narcissa, and James Wallace, William E. and 
John A. Rebecca married Robert Smart, May, 
1869, and died August, 1870; Nancy marriedDavid 
C. Carson, December 29, 1867 (he died November 7, 
1874) ; Mrs. Carson and her three children reside in 
Cleveland Ohio. Margaret and Mary (unmarried) 
live in Huutsville, Ohio; Narcissa married James 
Peoples, a prosperous farmer near Huutsville, 
Ohio, and a ruling elder in the United Presbyte- 
rian Congregation of said place; James Wallace 
was a member of the Forty-fifth Ohio Regiment 
during the Civil war (spent fourteen months in Rebel 
prison, being captured at Philadelphia Fort, Tenn. ; 
spent six months in Audersonville, the remainder 
of the time at Belle Isle, Charleston, Florence (S. 
C), etc. ; after his return from the army he married 
Nettie Anderson, and they reside on the " Anderson 
Hill " farm near Cedarville. Ohio; he is at present 
one of the county commissioners of Greene county, 
and an elder in theU. P. Church, Cedarville); Will- 
iam Elder is a coal merchant in Chicago, 111. ; Rev. 
John A. married Jessie Small, aud resides in In- 
dianapolis, Ind. Mr. Pollock was elected a mem- 
ber of Session in the Huutsville Congregation dur- 
ing the pastorate of his brother-in-law, Rev. James 
Wallace. He died August 27, 1S68, aud his re- 
mains lie in the cemetery at Huutsville. Ohio, be- 
side those of his wife, who died in December, 1872. 

Samuel Pollock, second son of William and Nancy 
(McNary) Pollock, was born January 10, 1813, on 



the original homestead in North Strabane township, 
the same farm where his father first saw the light 
of day, aud which his grandfather had bought, from 
the Indians, in the early times. On September 1, 
1840, he married Esther McNary, eldest daugh- 
ter of John and Jane Hill McNary (whose record 
appears elsewhere in this history), and they passed 
the first years of their wedded life on the Alex- 
ander Scott farm already alluded to, being part of 
the original Judge McDowell tract of 440 acres, all 
of which they afterward succeeded in purchasing. 
In the spring of 1858, having a desire to secure 
better educational advautages for their childreu, 
they purchased the fine residenco of the Rev. A. 
B. Anderson, D. D., and moved to Canonsburg, 
where they spent the remaining days of their life. 
They were the parents of seven children, namely: 
James Wallace, Jennie Hill, John McNary, Will- 
iam B. , Samuel Murray (who died in boyhood), 
Oliver Collins and Alexander Clark. In his youth 
Samuel Pollock was one of the leaders in the sports 
of the community, being a prominent participant 
at the husking bees, flax scutchings, wood chop- 
pings, log rollings and similar amusements of that 
day. He served seven years in the militia, and 
was a member of what was known as the " Ginger 
Hill Troops." In middle life he was hard to excel 
in the grain -field — in reaping and cradling grain. 
On one occasion, when his wheat had got very ripe, 
he was known to cut (with the cradle) 102 dozen 
sheaves in less than Bix hours. He was a robust 
man, weighing 170 pounds, and stood five feet ten 
inches in height; he was quick in his movements, 
and possessed wonderful endnrauce. Financially, 
lie was remarkably prosperous. Notwithstanding 
his father's will entitled him to the Alexander Scott 
farm, yet this tract had been but recently pur- 
chased, and but partially paid for, and it was only 
by the " sweat of his brow," together with his 
strict honesty and his unswerving integrity of pur- 
pose, that he was not only enabled to possess a 
clear title to said farm, but was enabled to add 
tract to tract until at the time of his death he 
ranked as one of the wealthiest landowners in the 
community. He was a most public spirited man, 
but never an aspirant for any public office or no- 
toriety of any kind, yet at the solicitation of friends 
he served most of his life in filling various town- 
ship offices. Mr. Pollock was one of the founders 
of the Republican party in Washington county, and 
in the winter of 1856 went to Pittsburgh in order 
to secure a lecturer on the subject; helping to pay 
for the same out of his own pocket. He was one 
of the committee who were instrumental in getting 
Dr. Le Moyne. of Washington, to make the first 
abolition speech in Canonsburg, which was de- 
livered from the steps of David Templeton's resi- 
dence, afterward known as " Olome Institute," 
which he finally purchased, and carried on for 



. 




•■ 




WASHING! ON COUNTY. 



609 



several years, at his own expense, as a Female Sem- 
inary. (It was situated on the site now occupied 
by the First Presbyterian church of Canonsburg). 
During the Fremont campaign of 1856, when a 
great political wagon was built and decorated in 
the yard surrounding his barn, and when on the 
night before the parade the neighboring Democrats 
undertook to destroy it, he, with a few other stanch 
Republicans, defended the wagon with an iron 
poker, amid the breaking of ribs, shoulders, noses 
etc., he coming out of the melee unharmed and 
victorious. The following day the wagon was 
driven to Canonsburg by bis brother, James Pol- 
lock, drawn by ten gray horses, and conveying 
thirty three patriotic young ladies, dressed to rep- 
resent the thirty-three States in the Union. He 
was very loyal to his country, and in the time of 
the great struggle of the Rebellion, too old him- 
self to enlist, he permitted his oldest son, James 
W., a youth under age, to buckle on the armor, 
and help save the great Republic. In his youth 
he joined the Seceder Church at Pigeon Creek, un- 
der the pastorate of Rev. Alexander Wilson. After 
his marriage he connected with the Chartiers Se- 
ceder (now known as the Chartiers United Presby- 
terian) Congregation at Canonsburg, in which he 
was elected a ruling elder February 15, 1N54, 
which office he held during the remainder of his 
life. He was one of the prime factors in erecting 
the present edifice known as Chartiers U. P. 
Church, at Canonsburg, in 1869-70; paying the 
largest subscription, besides working gratis and 
prevailing on others to do likewise. His home at 
Canonsburg was (in the words of Rev. Samuel 
Taggart, D. D.): "A minister's free hotel; even 
the minister's horse knew the place to turn into as 
he traveled the road." He was the original mover 
in the organization of the Oak Spriug Cemetery 
Company. Being chosen first president of said 
association, he served in that capacity until his 
death. He died July 4, 1883, in the seventy-first 
j' ear of his age, and November 9, 1890, his wife, 
Esther (McNary) Pollock, died in the seventy-sixth 
year of her age, and was laid by his side in the 
Oak Spring 'Cemetery, which he had been so in- 
strumental in establishing and ornamenting. 

James Wallace Pollock, county commissioner, 
one of the prominent citizens of the borough of 
Washington, and oldest son of Samuel and Esther 
(McNary) Pollock, is a native of North Strabane 
township, Washington Co., Penn., born October 
10, 1841, in the historic old log house erected, 
owned and occupied by Judge McDowell, and 
where Dr. McMillan (according to the record in 
his journal) preached his first sermon west of the 
Alleghany mountains, on the fourth Sabbath of 
August, 1775. The place is designated as " Mount 
Pleasant" in the original patent, which states that 
the amount paid was "the sum of six pounds 



twelve shillings for a tract containing 440 acres, 
with allowance of six per cent, for roads, etc., 
which was surveyed in pursuance of a warrant 
granted to John McDowell, Sr. , dated October 29, 
17M, clear of all restrictions and reservations ex- 
cept the one-fifth part of all gold and silver ore f or 
the use of the Commonwealth to be delivered at 
the pit's mouth clear of all charges." 

Mr. Pollock received his education at the com- 
mon schools of the district, and at Jefferson Col- 
lege. In April, 1858, his parents moved to Can- 
onsburg, where he attended college until August, 
1862, when he, with many other fellow students, 
under the leadership of Col. Frazier (then pro- 
fessor of mathematics in said college), laid aside 
their books, girded on the armor, and marched 
forth at their country's call to save it from rebel 
wrongs. Mr. Pollock served with distinction both 
in the ranks and at Gen. Hancock's headquarters, 
and was one of the very few who was seldom sick, 
and he never missed a day's duty from the time he 
joined the army in 1862 until the surrender of Lee 
at Appomattox in 1865? At the latter he was 
present with three cousins — William T. Pollock, 
Rev. George R. Murray and Thomas M. McNary 
— all of whom, remarkable as it may seem, are still 
living. Although there was not a battle their 
regiment, the One Hundred and Fortieth P. V. I., 
participated in from the time it joined the army of 
the Potomac in the fall of 1862, and prior to the 
battle of Chancellorsville, until the final struggle 
at Appomattox Courthouse, in April, 1865, but 
what some of the cousins, and generally all, were 
present, yet none of them was the least hurt ex- 
cept Rev. Murray, who received a slight wound on 
the historic wheat field at Gettysburg. 

On Mr. Pollock's return home after the close of 
the war, at his father's urgent request he took 
charge of the homestead (Alexander Scott farm), 
which he now owns, and engaged in agricultural 
pursuits, including the raising of fine stock, event- 
ually succeeding in becoming one of the most ener- 
getic and successful farmers in the county. Being 
alive to every interest, he was often called on to 
fill positions of trust. Mr. Pollock resided on his 
farm in North Strabane township until the spring 
of 1892, at which time he leased it and moved into 
the city, in order to school his children, and that 
he might more conveniently perform the duties re- 
quired of him as county commissioner. He has 
been a Republican ever since the organization of 
the party, and was many times chairman of the 
township committee and member of the county 
committee. In 1890, at the suggestion of his 
many friends, he consented to become a candidate 
for the office of county commissioner, and suc- 
ceeded in being nominated and elected that same 
year. When quite a young man he became a member 
of Chartiers Seceder (now U. P. ) Church, and many 



0)10 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



times since has been chosen trustee of that congre- 
gation. During the erection of their present com- 
modious edifice in Canonsburg, he was secretary 
of the board of trustees. He was one of the advo- 
cates and leaders in starting and establishing what 
is now a very nourishing and prosperous U. P. 
Congregation at Houstonville, in which he is a rul- 
ing elder. 

James W. Pollock and Miss Mary T. McNary 
(daughter of Samuel and Margaret (Templeton) 
McNary, born January 24, 1848) were united in 
marriage December 5, 1867, and ten children — six 
sons and four daughters — have been born to them, 
viz. : Fannie Luella, Ulysses Samuel, Maggie Es- 
ther, D. M. B. McLean, Ernest James, Harry Ed- 
gar, Annie McNary, William Wallace, Deurell 
Smiley, and Mary Osee, all yet living with their 
father in Washington. Mrs. Pollock (a most ami- 
able and lovely woman) died February 7, 1890, 
from a stroke of paralysis, superinduced by an 
attack of " la grippe." 

Jennie Hill Pollock, only daughter of Samuel 
and Esther (McNary) Pollock, was born October 8, 
1843, in the old log house of "Historic renown," 
on the State road. North Strabane township, 
known as the "Old Judge McDowell house," and 
at present owned by her youngest brother, Alexan- 
der Clark. So fond was she of her books and her 
school, that even in childhood days no greater pun- 
ishment could be inflicted upon her than to 
require her to absent herself from school for a 
day. Her education was limited to common-school 
instruction until the fall of 1857, when she entered 
Washington Female Seminary — Mrs. Sarah R. 
Hanua, principal. At the age of seventeen she 
received her diploma from this institution with 
honor, her grade in scholarship entitling her to be 
the valedictorian of a class numbering twenty-one 
members. This honor she declined, thus confer- 
ring it upon another. She united with the Char- 
tiers (Seceder) Church under the pastorate of Rev. 
J. B. Clark, D. D. , when fifteen years of age. At 
present she is a member of the Greenside Avenue 
(United Presbyterian) Congregation, Canonsburg, 
Penn., Rev. D. R. McDonald, pastor. She has 
filled various public offices, being treasurer of the 
Ladies' Presbyterial Missionary Society, and sent 
(in the spring of 1890) by this association as their 
representative to the Women's General Missioi 
Convention of the United Presbyterian Church, 
which met in Washington, Iowa. She has held 
continuously different offices in the State and 
county work in the Women's Christian Temper- 
ance Union, ever since its organization. She is a 
ready writer, and a few sketches from her pen have 
f mnd their way into print. Miss Pollock is noted 
as a most faithful and efficient church worker. 
When about fifteen years of age she began teach- 
ing in the Sabbath-school, and since that time has 



continuously taught. For some years she in- 
structed two classes each Sabbath: one in the 
colored school, the other in her own church school ; 
besides being a regular attendant at other divine 
services, and an untiring worker in mission bands, 
Young People's Societies, and other departments 
of church enterprises. She, with her brother. 
Alexander Clark, spent the winter of 1884-85 trav- 
eling in the South, visiting New Orleans Exposi- 
tion, and other points of interest. Her home has 
always been with her parents, nursing and caring 
for them in their old age until "God took them to 
Himself." At present she owns and resides in the 
home mansion, No. 504 West Pike street, Canons- 
burg, Penn., originally known as the "Dr. Ander- 
son homestead." 

John McNary Pollock, second son of Samuel 
and Esther (McNary) Pollock, was born January 2, 
1846, in North Strabane township, this county, on 
the farm now owned by his brother A. C. , being 
part of the tract patented by Judge McDowell, 
called " Mt. Pleasant." Although a farmer's son, 
John Pollock has enjoyed unusual educational ad- 
vantages, his parents being progressive citizens, 
who believed a thorough literary training to be 
essential to the highest success in any business. 
When John was a lad of twelve years his parents 
moved to Canonsburg, where he attended college 
for three years, then returned to the farm for a 
short time. He afterward took a course in book- 
keeping at Duff's Business College, Pittsburgh, 
Penn., graduating therefrom with honors. In the 
spring of lSOU he settled permanently on the farm 
in North Strabane township, the greater part of 
which he inherited from his father, and has since 
devoted his time to rural pursuits. On November 
14, 1 S 7 "_! , he was united in marriage with Mary 
Jane Templeton, who was born October 20, 1846, 
daughter of John and Rachel (Rankin) Templeton, 
and he located on the farm on which he still 
resides. Excepting the few years spent in obtain- 
ing an education he, by hard manual labor, and at 
the sacrifice of his nerves, was his father's main 
support in all his labors and business transactions. 
Although he at present enjoys comparatively good 
health, his physical condition gives evidence of the 
sacrifice made. To the union of John McNary Pol- 
lock and Mary Jane (Templeton) the following 
children have been born: Edith Jane McNary, 
Mary Esther, John Templeton, Nettie Elmira (de- 
ceased). Lawrie Samuel, Junietta Luella. and 
Clara Matilda (deceased). Mr. Pollock follows in 
the footsteps of his forefathers, and casts his 
ballot for the Republican party. He and his 
family worship with the Chartiers United Presby- 
terian Congregation, Canonsburg, Penn., of which 
he, his wife and two oldest children are members. 
He is a member of the board of trustees in said 
congregation, serving in this office a number of 







*at 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



613 



years, having been first elected in 187S. He was 
chosen a member of the first choir in Chartiers 
Congregation, but resigned when married, after 
serving four years. He has always been a con- 
sistent worker and energetic supporter of the 
Church. The wife and mother of this family was 
" called to her reward " since the above sketch was 
written. A very amiable and highly esteemed 
woman, she died February 15, 1893. Her remains 
are laid by the side of her two children in Oak 
Spring Cemetery. 

William B. Pollock, third son of Samuel and 
Esther (McNary) Pollock, was born May 26, 1843, 
in the old log house built by Judge McDowell, 
the house in which the first sermon, preached west 
of the Alleghany mountains, was delivered by Rev. 
John McMillan in August, 1775, in North Stra- 
baue township, Washington Co., Penn. He re- 
ceived his education in the graded schools of 
Canousburg and Duff's Commercial College, 
Pittsburgh, from which latter he graduated with 
honors in 1869. On February 11, 1875, at 6:30 
a. it., he was united in marriage by Rev. W. L. 
Wallace, D. D., with Miss Hettie Alverta Murray, 
daughter of Capt. James and Mary C. (Johnston) 
Murray, a sketch of whose family follows. Six 
children were born to this union — three living and 
three buried in Oak Spring Cemetery, namely: 
Mary Johnstcfa, born November 19, 1875, died 
April 16, 1876; Samuel Murray, born May 20, 
1877, attending school at Canonsburg, and a 
member of the U. P. Church; Cleonie Estella, born 
October 3, 1881; Ariadne, born February 19, 
1884, died August 26, 1887; Rose, born September 
20, 1886, died May 15, 1890; and Clara Jennie, 
born February 15, 1889. Mr. and Mrs. Pollock 
are members of the Canonsburg United Presby- 
terian Church, in which Mr. Pollock was elected a 
rifling elder December 22, 1892. He has held 
various local offices of trust in the township, but 
aspires to no political position, preferring a life of 
domestic felicity. He is a stockholder in the First 
National Bank at Canonsburg, also in the Western 
Pennsylvania Agricultural Association at Wash- 
ington. He is a member and treasurer of the Na- 
tional Delaine Merino Sheep Association of 
Washington county; elected treasurer 1891. In 
that year he was appointed as a committee to rep- 
resent the association at Chicago, 111., at the 
Columbian Exposition Commission, to arrange for 
the World's Fair of 1893. He was sent to meet 
with the United States Association in 1890, at 
Sb'iibenville, Ohio, also to meet the same associa- 
tion at the same place in 1892. He lived three 
years in the old Olome Institute building, in Can- 
onsburg. which was a gift to him from his father. 
On the Murray Hill farm, on which -he now resides 
with his family, Mr. Pollock built a fine residence, 
and in addition to this farm of 270 acres, he owns 



one of 100 acres on Plum run, in Chartiers town- 
ship, known as the " Old Hayes farm." In connec- 
tion with general agriculture, he is engaged in the 
raising of fine-bred sheep and cattle, making a 
specialty of American Red-Polled cattle, and Na- 
tional Delaine Merino sheep. Mr. Pollock ranks 
among the leading business men of the country, 
and is respected and honored by all. 

Oliver Collins Pollock, the fifth son of Samuel 
and Esther (McNary) Pollock, whose ancestral his- 
tory precedes this sketch, was born on the Alex- 
ander Scott farm in North Strabane township (at 
present owned by James W. Pollock), on Octo- 
ber 15, 1852. He attended Christy's school when 
but four years of age. When his parents moved 
to Canonsburg in 185S, lie attended high school; 
studied under Colfelt and Stevenson; attended 
Dickson and Dunbar's Academy during 1869-70; 
Washington and Jefferson College, at Washington, 
Penn., 1871-72; Westminster College, at New 
Wilmington, Penn., 1873-74, where he graduated 
with honor on June 16, 1874, in a class containing 
thirty-three students. While attending the United 
Presbyterian Theological Seminary in Allegheny, 
being struck with gold fever, from reports of the 
Black Hills, and wishing free transportation, on 
November 20, 1875, he enlisted in the United 
States Cavalry Service; the next day he was sent to 
Jefferson barracks, St. Louis, Mo., transferred 
to Fort D. A. Russell, Wyo. ; assigned to Com- 
pany M, Third U. S. Cavalry, under Capt. Anson 
Mills, on January 9, 1876; took part in the winter 
campaign against the Sioux Indians, leaving Fort 
D. A. Russell on February 20, and Fort Fetter- 
man March 1, and returning the 26th with the 
thermometer averaging twenty -six degrees below 
zero, the greatest cold being on the night of the 
16 and 17th of March (St. Patrick's day), when 
the thermometer registered forty-five degrees 
below zero. They were on a forced march of 
twenty-four hours' duration to attack Crazy 
Horse's village, at the mouth of Otter creek in 
Dakota, said village containing 110 tepees or 600 
warriors, which was destroyed March 17, 1876. 
The expedition took part in the summer cam- 
paign under Brig.-Gen. George Crooke (noted 
Indian fighter of the plains) against Sitting Bull 
and Crazy Horse's combined forces, [It was dur- 
ing the time of this campaign that Gen. Custer 
and men of the Seventh U. S. Cavalry were 
massacred,] being encamped within fifty or 
sixty miles of the death-trap, at the headwaters 
of Powder river, at the foot of Big Horn mount- 
ains, awaiting communications with Brig. -Gen. 
Terry. They were engaged June 17, 1876, in a 
whole day's ruuniflg fight with Sitting Bull's and 
Crazy Horse's entire band of 3,300 warriors on 
Rose Bend river, at the mouth of Dead Man's 
Canon, Montana, within three miles of the death- 



(514 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



trap, and they escaped it only through the sagacity 
of their noted guide — Frank Guiard. From their 
supply camp they started on the 5th of August, 
with fifteen days' rations, on Indian trails to 
avenge Gen. Custer's death, and following the 
trail into the Bad Lands of Dakota, the trail be- 
coming dim, they lost the trail and themselves in 
those alkali lands, where no wood thicker than rose 
bush stalks appears, and the water is like the lyes 
from wood ashes. Running out of rations, and no 
wild game accessible, they were compelled to live 
on rose buds and horseflesh to appease their hun- 
ger and quench their thirst. Having escaped 
from the Bad Lands, they came upon and destroyed 
American Horse's village of 104 tepees at Shin 
Battle, S. Dak., on September 9, 1876; which 
being rich in dried meat and ponies, they lived 
passably well until they arrived at Belle Touche 
river, near where Fort Meade now stands, about 
September 20, where they procured supplies from 
the citizens of Crooke's City in the Black Hills. 
Here they were issued raw beef, flour and green 
coffee to make a meal, each man having in his pos- 
session cooking utensils, consisting of a tin plate, 
a quart tin cup and a knife and fork. They re- 
mainediu Crooke, Deadwood Hill and Custer cities 
until their supply train arrived on the 5th of 
October, just two months after leaving this place 
at the foot of Big Horn mountains. By this time 
Mr. Pollock had learned that " all is not gold that 
glitters," and that gold could not be picked up by 
the handful in the Blitck Hills; yet being young, 
and liking the roving and exciting life of a cavalry- 
man in the West, he preferred to stay with Uncle 
Sam, and served five years. He came to Camp 
Sheridan, near Spotted Tail Agency, in the last of 
October, and soon thereafter, Crazy Horse having 
surrendered, came to Red Cloud Agency, and stayed 
over winter, when, becoming tired of Gov. Chuck, 
and desiring the free and roving life of the prairie, 
he and a few followers started north, but were 
overtaken and captured near Spotted Tail Agency 
by Indian soldiers about 8 o'clock in the evening. 
Mr . Pollock, known to be a reckless rider, was de- 
tailed (no one else being willing to volunteer) to 
carry the news to Fort Robinson at Red Cloud 
Agency. At night and alone, in order to insure 
secrecy, and being given direction not to spare 
horseflesh, he made the distance of forty-five miles, 
arriving at Fort Robinson about midnight. He 
was present next day when Crazy Horse, having 
refused to be placed in the white man's guard- 
house by Capt. Kennington, received his death 
wound. That night (the pickets being doubled) 
about midnight, the Indians at the agency took up 
the death-song (he having expired). A shot was 
fired somewhere on the picket lines, and thinking 
the Fort was attacked, officers' and soldiers' wives 
came running into the soldiers' quarters in their 



nightclothes, exclaiming "for God's sake save us." 
It took Mr. Pollock four days to return to Camp 
Sheridan with the horse (which never recovered). 
He was present in 1877 when the Third Cavalry so 
gallantly headed off, captured and subdued the 
Cheyenne Indians, whose leaders were Wild Hog 
and Yellow Hand. He was with the soldiers in 
removing Spotted Tail and Red Cloud bands of 
Sioux Indians to the Old Ponco Reservation on the 
Missouri river, in the fall of 1877, and to what is 
now known as Pine Ridge Agency in the spring of 
1878. Afterward he was stationed at Fort Sidney, 
Neb., on the Union Pacific Railroad; at Fort Mc- 
Kinney, Wyo. ; at Camp Rawlins, on the Union 
Pacific Railroad, after Maj. Thornburg's (pay- 
master) massacre by the Piute Indians, Novem- 
ber, 1879; at Fort Laramie and at Fort D. A. 
Russell, Wyo., where he was honorably discharged 
November 19, 1880, at the expiration of five years' 
service (Capt. Deane Monahan, commander of Com- 
pany M. Third Cavalry). Mr. Pollock came back 
to Pennsylvania, and engaged in rural pursuits. 
On December 3, 1880, he was married to Anna 
Bell Weaver, who was born November 13, 1854, a 
daughter of Thomas Dell and Eliza (Caldwell) 
Weaver. In the spring of 1881 they set up house- 
keeping in the old Judge McDowell historic man- 
sion, now owned by A. C. Pollock. In 1884, 
having inherited from his father a portion of the 
Judge McDowell tract, known as "Mount Pleas- 
ant," he erected thereon a domicile, moving to the 
same December 18, 18S4, and here he still resides. 
Mr. Pollock has held different offices of trust, 
serving as auditor, tax collector, etc.; at present 
he is tilling the office of committee of a lunatic, 
and guardian of minor children: of that of notary 
public, having been appointed to said office by the 
governor of Pennsylvania. He is an ardent and 
stanch upholder of the principles of the Republican 
party. To the union of Oliver Collins Pollock and 
Anna Bell Weaver the following children — five 
girls and four boys — were born: Bessie Jeanette, 
Viola Pearl, Oscar Dell. Eliza Weaver, ' Lucy 
Esther, Edna Loretta (died at the age of four 
months), Adez Clark, Earl Collins and Samuel 
Blaine MaeDonald. Mr. Pollock worships with 
the Canonsburg United Presbyterian Congrega- 
tion, whose church edifice is situated on Greenside 
avenue, Canonsburg. Penn.. himself, wife and old- 
est daughter being members of said congregation. 
Alexander Clark Pollock, youngest child of 
Samuel and Esther (McNary) Pollock, was born on 
the farm now owned by his brother, James Wal- 
lace Pollock, situated in North Strabane township, 
this county. He is unmarried and makes his 
home with his sister Jennie H. Pollock, Canons- 
burg, Penn. He owns the homestead farm, on 
which is the famous log house erected by Judge 
McDowell in bygone days, and in which his 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



615 



parents lived the first eleven years of their mar- 
ried life. This house is built of hewn logs, per- 
fectly joined together; is 40x60 feet square, two 
stories in height; contains seven rooms, all the in- 
side work — ceilings, partitions, cup-boards, floors, 
door, etc. — made of finished walnut lumber. The 
whole structure, being completed in the best me- 
chanical manner, was considered in those times a 
very fine edifice. Said farm (belonging to A. 
Clark Pollock) is part of the tract patented as 
"Mount Pleasant" in the year 1784. It is situ- 
ated in North Strabane township, three and one- 
half miles south of Cauon3burg, this county, on 
the State road known in times prior to railroad 
transportation, as the Drove road, from east to 
west, and was headquarters for travelers in those 
days. The old log house still remains, and is 
used as the dwelling house on the farm. Having 
recently been repaired, it is in a good state of pres- 
ervation, and is a comfortable residence. A. Clark 
Pollock is a progressive business man, and has 
held a number of positions of trust — such as chief 
burgess, bookkeeper, treasurer of various associa- 
tions, guardian for a number of children, etc. He 
is a member of Greenside Avenue United Presby- 
terian Church, Canonsburg, Penn., which congre- 
gation he is now serving as treasurer. He has 
always been actively interested in the success of- 
the Republican party. Has served two consecutive 
terms as chief burgess of Canonsburg, Penn., 
being the youngest man ever elected to the office. 
He is a stockholder in the Oak Spring Cemetery 
Company, made so by the will of his mother, to 
whom it was left by her husband (Samuel Pollock), 
who was one of the organizers of the company. 
After the death of his father, he was given power 
of attorney by his mother over her stock, and 
elected by said company one of the business di- 
rectors, in which capacity he has served ever since, 
being re-elected some ten consecutive years. He 
has been a member of the National Guard of Penn- 
sylvania for a number of years; is at present 
quartermaster-sergeant of Company H, Tenth 
Regiment, and experienced a little of soldier life 
in the recent riots in his State. He is a hearty, 
robust man, seemingly in the prime of life. 

James Pollock, a well-known farmer in North 
Strabane township, a representative of one of the 
oldest pioneer families of the county and a native 
of the same, is the third and youngest son of Will- 
iam and Nancy (McNary) Pollock, and is the only 
member of the family now living. He was born 
September 19, 1815, on the ancestral farm (which 
he now owns) situated near Clokey, this county. 
He received his education at the subscription 
schools of the neighborhood of his birthplace, and 
was reared to agricultural pursuits. He was an 
attentive and apt scholar, and succeeded in becom- 
ing proficient in the fundamental branches of 



study. On December 19, 1837, he was united in 
marriage with Abigail, daughter of James Thome, 
and they had two children: William and Abigail 
(twins), born September '28, 1^40; William mar- 
ried Sarah Barr, December 4, 1867; Abigail mar- 
ried John C. McNary, May 20, 1868. The mother 
of these two children died March 3, 1843, aged 
thirty-three years, and was buried in the Pigeon 
Creek Church graveyard. . On August 19, 1846, 
Mr. Pollock married Ellen Y., daughter of James 
Linn, of South Strabane township, two daughters 
being the result of this union, viz. : Jane L... born 
May 4, 1847, married November 8, 1882, to James 
S. McNary, Jr., of Peters township, this county, 
and Nannie McN., born September 6, 1848, mar- 
ried October 18, 1870, to Milton O. Brownlee, of 
this county. The mother of these two girls died 
April 23, 1885, and was buried in the cemetery at 
Pigeon Creek. Mr. Pollock, like his forefathers, 
is a strict churchman, and believes it to be his 
duty and privilege to support religious enterprises. 
He and his family have been members of the 
United Presbyterian Church at Pigeon Creel; for 
many years, and he has long been a ruling elder 
in same. He is the only person now living in 
the congregation that was a member of it when he 
connected with it in his youth. In politics he was 
formerly a Whig, and since the formation of the 
party a Republican; though rendering valuable aid 
to his party, he has never accepted any party of- 
fice. Mr. Pollock still owns and lives on the orig- 
inal ancestral Pollock tract, patented " Plenty," 
and situated near Clokey, Washington Co., Penn., 
which is now superintended by his only son, Will- 
iam. He (William) is a Republican, and during 
the war of the Rebellion he served in Company G, 
One Hundred and Fortieth Regiment, P. V. I. 
After he returned from the army he married Sarah 
Barr, to which union have been born five children, 
thus representing the third, fourth and fifth gener- 
ations of the Pollock family now living on the farm 
patented " Plenty." 

qEORGE MURRAY, of Washington county, 
was born at Marsh Creek, near Gettysburg, 
Adams Co. , Penn. His grandfather was Rev. 
, George Murray, of Lockerbie, Scotland, and 
the following is the epitaph on his gravestone 
in the kirkyard of Shundergarth ; " Here lies depos- 
ited the earthly part of the Rev. George Murray, 
late minister of the Gospel of the Associate Congre- 
gation of Anuandale, at Lockerbie, who died April 
1, 1757, in the 42d year of his age, and fourteenth 
of his ministry. Meekness and zeal mutually 
qualifying each other in their steadfast adherence 
to the faith of the Gospel and to the Testimony 
for Scotland's Reformation amidst the general op- 
position to both — were his distinguishing charac- 
teristics." 



610 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Rev. John Murray, father of George Murray, 
above spoken of, was born in 174S at Lockerbie, 
in the valley of the Annan, Dumfrieshire, Scotland, 
where his father Rev. George Murray, was pastor 
of the Associate (Antiburgher) Congregation; he 
was graduated at Glasgow University, and studied 
theology in the Associate Hall at Alloe; was li- 
censed in the summer of 1773 by the Presbytery of 
Sanquhar. On the 2d of the following Septem- 
ber he was appointed to go to America, and be- 
fore the month was out sailed from Glasgow. He 
was ordained April 17, 1776, by the Associate 
Presbytery of Pennsylvania; was pastor of Marsh 
Creek Congregation, near Gettysburg, Adams Co., 
Penn., from ' November 2, 1777, until his death 
which occurred in the summer of 1785. He left 
two children, Mary and George. His wife was 
Eliza Johnston, youngest child of Thomas John- 
ston, of Pequea, Salisbury township, Lancaster 
Co., Penn. 

The parents of George Murray (whose name 
opens the sketch) dying when he was quite young, 
he and his sister Mary (afterward Mrs. James Clark, 
of Mercersburg, Penn.) were reared in the home 
of their maternal uncle, Thomas Johnston, 
of Lancaster county, afterward of near Mercers- 
burg, Penn. There he grew to manhood and 
acquired the trade of cabinet maker. Seeking 
his fortune in western Pennsylvania, he settled at 
Darlington. After he had been there a short time 
he came to Washington county, to attend the mar- 
riage of Rev. David Imbrie and Miss Jane Reed. 
Shortly afterward he returned for the bridesmaid, 
Miss Mary Reed (first cousin of the former Miss 
Reed), and took her back as his bride November 28, 
1805. In 1811 he disposed of his town property 
in Darlington, came to Washington county and 
purchased a farm called "Lovely Banks," two 
miles northeast of Canonsburg (a part of which is 
now Van Eman Station). He improved this placeby 
building a large brick house and frame barn on it 
(the same now owned by Mr. Greer). Afterward he 
bought several adjoining tracts of land, one of 
which is now included in the northern part of the 
Pennsylvania Reform School farm. He was a man 
of thrift aud honesty, pious and upright, in his de- 
portment, an humble and devout Christian; a sub- 
stantial pillar of the Associate Presbyterian (Char- 
tiers) Church of Canonsburg, and for many years 
one of its influential elders and liberal supporters. 
He died June 17, 1832, in the fiftieth year of his 
age. He aud his wife and children (except John 
and Maria) are interred in Oak Spring cem- 
etery (formerly Chartiers graveyard), Canons- 
burg, Penn. His wife, Mary Reed, daughter of 
David and Margaret (May) Reed, of near Venice, 
Washington county, was known by all for her kind- 
ness and hospitality. The "proverbial" praise of 
the virtuous woman could aptly be ascribed to her, 



for, " She looked well to the ways of her household, 
and ate not the bread of idleness." She died No- 
vember 13, 1840, in the sixty-second year of her 
age. Their children were as follows: Margaret, 
born January 1, 1807, Eliza, born January 21, 
1809, John, born July 31, 1810 (all three born at 
Darlington, Penn.); David, born March 18, 1813, 
Maria, born January 9, 1815, James and George 
(twins), born October 20, 1810, Dr. Thomas John- 
ston, born January 7, 1819, and Martha, born De- 
cember 2, 1821 (all six born at Canonsburg, Penn.). 
Of these Margaret married William H. McXary, 
and died at her residence in Canonsburg, June 6, 
1882; Eliza married David Templeton, and lived 
in Canonsburg until after the death of her hus- 
band, March 0, 1809. After 1872 she made her 
home with her daughter, Mrs. M. R. Johnston, at 
Mercersburg, Penn. Early in life she connected 
herself with the Associate Presbyterian Church, 
and later with the Chartiers United Presbyterian 
Church, and gave liberally of her means for the 
spreading of the Gospel. She and Mrs. Esther 
Pollock were for many years prominent members 
of the first Bible Society of Canonsburg. At the 
time of her death she was a member of the Cen- 
tral United Presbyterian Church at Omaha, Neb. 
Modest and retiring in her disposition, her kindness 
of heart, her gentle manner and sincere piety 
caused her to be loved and respected by all. She 
died March 20, 1891, at the residence of her son- 
in-law, Thomas C. Johnston, Council Bluffs, Iowa, 
in the eighty-third year of her age. She left three 
children, Margaretta Reed Templeton, Caroline 
and George Murray Templeton. Margaretta Reed 
Templeton graduated at Washington Seminary. 
She married Thomas C. Johnston, and spent the 
greater part of her married life at Mercersburg, 
Penn., but in 1889 she finally moved to Iowa. At 
an early age she became connected with the As- 
sociate Presbyterian Church. She died April 24, 
1891, at Council Bluffs, Iowa, in the fifty-sixth 
year of her age. She leaves one son — A. M. John- 
ston — and one daughter — Ella E. Johnston. Car- 
oline Templeton graduated at Washington Semi- 
nary, was a member of the Associate Presbyterian 
Church, and spent most of her life in Canonsburg. 
She was possessed of an exceptionally bright and 
amiable character, and none knew her but to love 
her. She died April 9, 1874, aged thirty-six years. 
Capt. George Murray Templeton was born at Can- 
onsburg, Washington Co., Penn., May 3, 1841, aud 
died May 4, 1870. Abandoning his studies at 
Jefferson College he enlisted, at the age of twenty, 
in Company D, One Hundred and Forty ninth 
Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteers; was mustered 
into service August 23, 1862; appointed captain in 
the Thirty-second Regiment U. S. Colored Troops 
February 17, 1804; was wounded at the battle of 
Honey Creek, S. C, November 30, 1S04; mustered 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



617 



out at close of Civil war, August 22, 1865; entered 
the regular army, February 23, 1866, as second 
lieutenant in the Eighteenth Regular TJ. S. Infantry ; 
October 19, 1867, was appointed a captain in the 
Twenty-seventh Regular TJ. S. Infantry. He was 
a man of sterling integrity, and an officer of distin- 
guished bravery and superior acquirements. 

John Murray married Elizabeth Wilsou,who died 
December 9, 1842, in her twenty-second year, and 
he was afterward married to Ellen Peritte. He lived 
for many years on his farm, now part of the Mor- 
ganza, Penn., Reform School land. He moved to 
Illinois, thence to Leavenworth, Kans. , where he re- 
sided until his death. He left a widow and seven 
children. He was a volunteer in a militia company 
(known as the "Republican Rangers") from 1840 
to 1847. His children are Jennie, Annie, John, 
Minnie, Mattie, Georgiana and Stella, all living in 
Kansas. Jennie married Russel McCune; Annie 
married Samuel Trower; John married Emma 
Trower; Minnie became Mrs. Will. O. McCune, and 
Mattie married a Mr Roup. 

David Reed Murray died August 24, 1819. Maria 
Murray married John Henderson, and they after- 
ward moved to Kansas, where they died, leaving 
seven children settled there: John, Clark, Julia, 
Amanda, George. Mary and James (John was 
Mrs. Henderson's step-son by his father's first 
marriage to Miss Anderson). George Murray 
(twin) died January 18, 1839, on the Murray Hill 
farm, near Murray Hill Station. 

James Murray (twin brother of George) married 
Miss Mary Clark Johnston, August 28, 1848, at 
the house of her father, Alexander Moncreiff 
Johnston, near Mercersburg, Franklin Co., Penn. 
He brought his bride across the mountains in a 
buggy, in the days before railroads. They resided 
on the Murray farm, in the house built by his 
father, George Murray, till the spring of 1852, 
when they moved to the adjoining farm, which he 
had bought of the executors of the Murdock estate, 
where he died August 20, 1853, in the house built 
and formerly owned by Gen. Morgan, and where 
the Aaron Burr conspiracy was made known in 
Colonial times. He was energetic, industrious in 
his worldly affairs, always willing to assist in any 
public enterprises; pious and exemplary in his 
Christian deportment. He was very fond of mili- 
tary matters, and it was only his filial obedience 
that, prevented him from taking his company to 
the Mexican war; for twenty-one years he was a 
member of the Washington Guards, and for four- 
teen years captain of his company. The following 
is an extract from the Washington Reporter: "We 
have the melancholy duty to perform of announc- 
ing the death of Capt. James Murray, which took 
place at his residence, Morganza, in North Stra- 
bane township in this county, on Saturday, August 
20, 1853. Capt. Murray was one among our most 



useful, public-spirited and highly esteemed citi- 
zens, universally beloved for those traits of 
character which command the respect and endear 
their possessor to the intelligent and good in every 
community. His sickness was of but few days' 
continuance, and we believe assumed the character 
of typhoid fever. He was in the prime of life, be- 
ing in the thirty seventh year of his age. Society 
bus had iu Capt. Murray one of its most active and 
useful citizens, and his family are immensely en- 
deared to him by his devoted affection, amiable 
character, upright and exemplary walks and de- 
portment. AVe, ourself, feel a bereavement in 
the death of this amiable gentlemen whom we 
ranked amongst our most attached friends." 

Mary Clark (Johnston), wife of James Murray, 
was born two miles west of Mercersburg, Penn., 
January 30, 1828. Her mother was Esther, 
youngest daughter of Jeremiah and Mary (Clark) 
Rankin. Her father, Alexander Moncreiff Johns- 
ton, was the youngest son of Thomas Johnston, 
who came to Mercersburg from Peqnea, Lancaster 
county, in 1794, and was a lineal descendant of 
Archibald Johnston (Lord Warriston), of Scotland. 
[The Johnston coat-of-arms was a winged spur, 
the motto was " Nunquam nonparitus" (Never un- 
prepared).] When quite young she (Mary C. 
Johnston) joined the Ass'ociate Church at Mercers 
burg, under the Rev. Findley McNaughton. She 
spent- her married life of five years at Murray 
Hill, Washington Co., Penn., and after her hus- 
band's death she made her home at Mercerslmr^ 
until her death, which occurred February 28, 
1876. She was a person of strong faith and great 
zeal for her church, giving the half of her income 
for the support of the Gospel. She was a strong 
Abolitionist in her political sentiments before and 
during the war of the Rebellion, and while her 
home was surrounded by the Rebel army she gave 
shelter to homeless refugee colored people: and 
when her roof was no longer a protection, because 
the houses were to be searched, she gave them 
clothing and helped them away by night to the 
mountains. She rests from her labors, her remains 
being interred in Fairview cemetery, Mercersburg, 
Penn., beside her two children and her parents. 
The children of James and Mary Clark Murray 
were Mary Emma, who died, aged twelve months, 
at Mercersburg, Penn. ; Hettie Alverta, now Mrs. 
William B. Pollock, born September 22, 1851 (a 
brief sketch of whom follows), and Lidie Martha 
Murray, who died September 4, 1861, aged seven 
and one-half years. 

Mrs. William B. Pollock was born in the house 
built by her grandfather, George Murray, on a 
farm called "Lovely Banks," in Washington county, 
Penn., a part of which is at present known as Van- 
Eman Station, and here she spent the first two 
years of her life. At the death of her father, 



618 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



August 20, 1853, she removed with her mother to 
Mercersburg, Franklin Go., Penn. Here she at- 
tended Mercersbnrg College, afterward completing 
her education at Wilson's Female College, Charn- 
bersburg, Penn. She united with the Mercersburg 
United Presbyterian congregation, under the pas- 
torate of Rev. Gracey Ferguson, D. D., when fif- 
teen years of age. On February 11, 1875, she was 
married, and in June of that year she and her 
husband took a picturesque drive over the Alle- 
ghany Mountains in their own buggy to their new 
home, aud began housekeeping in Canonsburg, 
Penn. Here she lived three years, and then 
moved to her present dwelling at Murray Hill. 
Mrs. Pollock possesses a talent given to but few — 
that of an artist. She received some instruction 
in drawing in her youth, but sketches readily 
from nature. The walls of the different apart- 
ments of her home testify to her skill and handi- 
work, and many friends have decorative memen- 
toes of her brush and easel. An oil painting, well 
executed, of her own residence, at present deco- 
rates her dining-room. She decorates china with 
ease and fine finish, and her cupboard contains a 
large supply, the work of her own brush and kiln. 
By disposition she is amiable and hospitable. Her 
friends are welcome guests at her house. 

Dr. Thomas Johnston Murray, brother of James, 
was born January 7, 1819, and died January 21, 
1851 . He graduated at Jefferson College, Canons- 
burg, studied medicine in Philadelphia, and after- 
ward located in Canonsburg where until his death 
he was a very successful practicing physician. His 
wife, Elizabeth Calohan Murray, w T as born October 
12, 1821, died April 28, 1856. Rev. George Reed 
Murray and Anna Kelly (Hodgens), now Mis. James 
M. Thomas, are the children of Thomas and Eliza- 
beth Murray, both now residing at Thomas, Wash- 
ington Co., Penn. 

Rev. George Reed Murray volunteered in the 
U. S. army August 13, 1862, at the age of sev- 
enteen years, served in Company G, One Hun- 
dred and Fortieth Pennsylvania Volunteers, until 
after the close of the war. Entered Westmin- 
ster College in the fall of 1866; graduated from 
the classical department in the spring of 1871; in 
the fall of the same year entered the United Pres- 
byterian Seminary in Newburgh, N. Y., and spent 
two years there; in the fall of 1873 entered Theo- 
logical Seminary of Princeton, N. J., and was li- 
censed to preach in spring of 1874 by the First 
U. P. Presbytery of New Jersey. 

On October 7, L875, Rev. George R. Murray 
was married to Miss Mary Henrietta McClees, of 
Taylorstown, Penn., by whom were born six chil- 
dren, three of whom are now (February 19, 1893) 
living, viz. : Harry Alexander Murray, aged sixteen 
years; Thomas Johnston Arthur Murray, aged 
eleven years; James McClees Murray, aged nine 



years. Mr. Murray was pastor of the U. P. 
Church in Centreville, Iowa, some four years; set- 
tled again in Murray, Cass Co., Neb., in 1880, 
serving as pastor for ten years, then was released 
to accept a call to Mount Prospect U. P. Church, 
Thomas, Penn., July 1, 1891. On March 14, 1889, 
Mrs. Mary H. Murray died, and Mr. Murray was 
married December 30, 1890, to Mrs. Agnes C. 
Blair, of Monmouth, Illinois. 

Martha Murray died unmarried September 2, 
1854, in her thirty third year. Lovely and win- 
ning in her ways, kind and affectionate in her dis- 
position, she was revered by all friends and ac- 
quaintances. Mrs. William B. Pollock's maternal 
grandfather, Alexander MoncreifE Johnston, was a 
son of Thomas and Anne (Houston) Johnston, 
Anne Houston being one of the Houston family of 
Lancaster county, a daughter of John Houston, 
who came from Scotland or the North of Ireland. 



d/OHN L. RIGGS represents a family of the 
earliest pioneers, who were originally natives 
J of Wales, the home of mythical legends and 
weird, yet fascinating ballads. But more 
fascinating to the childish ear than even an- 
cient tale or thrilling music were the new stories 
of a life where truth was stranger than fiction, of 
a wonderful land across the mighty ocean. At 
length a hardy band of pioneers joined an expedi- 
tion to the New World, and among their number 
were the early ancestors of the Riggs family. After 
binding in America they settled in Maryland, 
where their children grew to maturity and were 
married. 

William Riggs, a son of this family, was born in 
1750, and in early life married Mary Dodson. The 
young couple decided to plunge yet deeper into 
the forest wilds, and in 1773 came to Washington 
county, Penn., where he took out a patent of laud 
near Monongahela river, a portion of which is 
yet in the family name. He served as vestryman 
in an Episcopal church prior to 1794, and in 1799 
was licensed to preach by the authorities of the 
Methodist Episcopal Society. He died in 1833; 
his wife died in December, 1819, aged sixty-four; 
both are buried on the home farm. They were 
the parents of thirteen children, their names and 
dates of birth being as follows: Jeremiah, Decem- 
ber 17, 1774; Eleanor, October 3, 1776; James, 
December 14, 1778; Abrillar, February 11, 1781; 
Thomas, February 19, 1783; William, April 29, 
L785; Zachariah, May 25, liS7; Marv, June 11. 
1789; Lucy, July 16,1 791; Noah, August 6, 1793; 
Elizabeth, 1795; Mahlon, December 25, 1 797, and 
Anne, 1799. Quite a number of these lived to very 
old ages; several went to Marshall county, W. Ya., 
others to different parts of Ohio. 

Mahlon Riggs, a son of William and Mary (Dod 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



619 



son) Riggs, was born in Washington county, Penn., 
and passed his entire life in Allen township. On 
August 10, 1820, he was married, by Rev. Watson, 
to Lydia Williams, who was born in 1800 in Wash- 
ington county, Penn., a daughter of John and Mar- 
garet Williams, the former of whom came from 
Maryland with his mother, who is buried at Cali- 
fornia, Penn. Grandfather Williams was born 
February 15, 1776, and died March 10, 1861, aged 
eighty-five years. He was a Methodist, and was 
buried at Mount Tabor church. On March 23, 
17'.i'.). he had married Margaret Howe, who was 
born in Washington county, Penn., in 1779, and 
died May 25, 1867. She was a member of the 
Methodist Church, and was buried at Mount Tabor 
church. They had children as follows: Lydia, 
Mary, Elizabeth, Isabel, Hannah, Thomas, John, 
William N., Simeon, Sarah and Salathiel, all now 
deceased, except the first and the last two named. 
John and William N. were traveling preachers in 
the Methodist Church. The children born to Man- 
Ion and Lydia Williams were as follows: Mary E., 
born June 14, 1821, died January 15, 1836, and 
buried in Howes cemetery; John L., subject of 
sketch; Thomas Thornton Fleming, born April 29, 
1826, and married Susan Redd May 31, 1853 
(both died several years ago in Moundsville, and 
were buried there); Caroline A., born October 1. 
1828, and married to G. W. Hazelbaker June 15, 
1851; Lucinda A. , born September 25, 1830, and 
was twice married, first, on June 12, 1853, to J. 
D. Latta, and after his death she married Johnston 
Noble, who is now deceased (she is now living at 
California, Penn.); William N. , born March 5, 
1832, died April 20, 1892, and buried at Mount 
Tabor Methodist Episcopal church; Margaret E., 
born February 8, 1834, married to H. J. Furnier 
December 14, 1854, died September 27, 1850, and 
buried at Mount Tabor; James L., born March 15, 
1834, married May 21, '1861, to Emily Rulong, of 
Moundsville, W. Va. , both now deceased, he hav- 
ing died February 25, 1866. and buried at Mount 
Tabor church; Elizabeth A., born August 1 •">, 
1834, married to H. J. Furnier July 29, I860, died 
February 5, 1862, and was buried at Mount Tabor. 
(H T. Furnier is also deceased, and is buried at 
Mount Tabor church). The parents were members 
of the Mount Tabor Methodist Episcopal Church. 
The father died iu 1886; his widow is living with 
her daughter, Lucinda, at California, Penn. 

John L. Riggs was born March 30, 1824, in Allen 
township, Washington county, and received a sub- 
scription-school education. On January 25, 1852, 
he was united in marriage with Dorothy J. , daugh- 
ter of Alexander P. Biles, a native of Allen town- 
ship, where her mother died some years ago; her 
father died in Moundsville, W. Va. Mr. and Mrs. 
Riggs resided on the old homestead until 1859, 
when they came to their present home. He bought 



fifty -five acres, which, added to the original tract, 
comprises 175 acres of well-cultivated land, fur- 
nished with a good brick residence. Mr. Riggs has 
given his attention to farming and stock raising; 
in politics he was a strong Abolitionist, now vot- 
ing with the Republican party, which he has served 
as township collector and a member of the school 
board. Mr. and Mrs. Riggs have had children as 
follows: Marcellus, born December 9, 1852, un- 
married and residing with his parents; J. A., born 
January 21, 1854, unmarried and residing with 
his parents (he is a contracting carpenter); Cyrenus, 
born November 29, 1855, married June 15, 1886, 
to Nancy Rogers, of Iowa (they are now living iu 
Galva, Ida Co., Iowa, where he is a contracting 
carpenter); John W., born May 10, 1857, married 
March 10, 1880, to Anna M. Alden, who was born 
February 11, 1862, at Toulon, Stark Co., 111. 
(they now live in Allen township, Washington 
county. Penn); Oliver S., born September 21, 1860, 
married to Katie Bell McKenna, and they are now 
living on the home farm. 



AMUEL PATTERSON, one of the most 
successful agriculturists of West Bethlehem 
township, is a grandson of Thomas Patter- 
son, who was born in Ireland, and came to 
this country with his family in about the year 
1 81 H I. He went to New Orleans, where he was 
seized with the yellow fever, and coming back to 
Washington county, Penn., died. 

John Patterson, son of the pioneer, Thomas, set- 
tled upon the farm of one Noble, in Washington 
county, Penn., and soon afterward he purchased the 
farm which is now the home of his sou Samuel. He 
married Jane, daughter of John Simpson, who re- 
sided in Greene county, Penn., and was also of Irish 
parentage, her father emigrating early in the history 
of Greene county, Penn. To them were born the fol- 
lowing children: Catharine, wife of James 
Wherry, residing in Hillsboro; Rebecca, wife of 
John Bumgarner; Elizabeth, wife of Levi Hopkins; 
Jane, wife of G. P. Baker; Sarah, wife, of Levi 
Dawson; Andrew (deceased); John (deceased); 
Samuel, the subject of this biography; Mary 
Siberts, and Thomas, a minister of the Gospel at 
Waynesburg. At the time of his death, which oc- 
curred April 10, 1849, John Patterson owned 250 
acres of land in Washington county, Penn., por- 
tions of which he purchased at $3. per acre. He 
erected the log dwelling in ivhich his son Samuel 
now lives, and which is one of the oldest in Wash- 
ington county. Tlie nails used in its construction 
were purchased from a blacksmith at 12i cents 
per pound. He attended the subscription schools 
in the county, and at one time his master was 
the grandfather of the late J. G. Blaine, by name 
Gillespie. t 



620 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Samuel Patterson was born December 15, 1824, on 
the old homestead farm where he has continued to 
reside. He is now a hale and hearty old gentle- 
man, well deserving the golden opinion he wins 
from all who delight in his acquaintance. His 
farm consists of nearly four hundred acres of ex- 
cellent land. Politically Mr. Patterson is a 
thorough Democrat, and has always given the can- 
didates of his party a cordial support, but could 
never be persuaded to himself accept the nomina- 
tion for any office. 



v AMUEL CLUTTER, a highly esteemed and 
worthy citizen of Hanover township, is a 
son of Daniel D. , whose father (William) was 
born in New Jersey, and came to Washington 
county, Penn., about 1800. William Clutter lo- 
cated in Morris township, this county, on Snaggon 
run, but very little is known concerning him, ex- 
cepting that he was twice married, his first choice 
being a Miss Davis, and that children were born to 
both marriages. William Clutter was a farmer, 
and continued to reside in Morris township until 
his death. Among the children of his first wife 
was Daniel D. (father of Samuel). 

Daniel D. Clutter was born about 1812, in 
Morris township, Washington Co. , Penn., and re- 
ceived an education in the subscription school. He 
learned the trade of a shoemaker with one Jacob 
Sanders, and then began business for himself. He 
set up a shop in Somerset township, this county, 
on the farm of one William Crouch, and there 
wooed and won his life companion, Mary Under- 
wood. She was born in 1815, in Somerset town- 
ship, a daughter of Jacob Underwood, but was 
reared by John Leyda, of Somerset township. To 
this union the following children were born: John 
L. , went to New Orleans, and while working in a 
lumber camp enlisted in the Fourth Virginia In- 
fantry, was taken prisoner and died from starva- 
tion in Danville prison; Samuel is the subject of 
this sketch; Noadiah, of Effingham, 111., is con- 
nected with the Eagle Refining Company; Letitia 
died in early womanhood; William is a resident of 
Graysville, Greene Co., Penn.; Elizabeth is the 
widow of William Vance, of Pittsburgh, Penn.; 
Nancy J. is deceased. In 1855 the mother of this 
family died, and for his second choice Daniel D. 
Clutter married Agnes McAdams, a native of 
Scotland, who resided near McDonald, Penn., and 
she now lives in Washington, this county. She 
bore him three children, viz. : a sou, deceased in 
infancy; Anna Mary, and Nettie (Mrs. Isaac Sup- 
ler, of Cameron, W. Va). Mr. and Mrs. Clutter 
first located near the Pigeon Creek church, inWash- 
ington county, and resided there for some time, 
he following his trade. He then went to Greene 
county, same State, and, purchasing 100 acres near 



Graysville, successfully followed farming the re- 
mainder of his days. He died July 1, 1881, and 
was buried in Unity cemetery. In politics he was 
a Whig, later on a Republican, and while no poli- 
tician, he took an interest in the success of his 
party; he was a well-read man and had a good 
memory, also a very fair practical education. 

Samuel Clutter was born January 25, 1840, on 
Pigeon creek. He was reared a farm boy, and 
his education was received at the common schools 
of the period. His parents moved to Greene 
county when he was a lad of but twelve or thirteen 
years of age, and here received his agricultural 
training on the farm of his father. When the 
Civil war broke out he enlisted in Company A, 
One Hundred and Fortieth P. V. I., and partici 
pated in every engagement that this well-known 
regiment was in, with one exception, the tight at 
Gettysburg, at which time he was in the hospital 
at Fairfax, recovering from the effects of a sun- 
stroke. He remained there until September 1, 
1863, when he joined his regiment and served till 
the close of the war, receiving an honorable dis- 
charge May 30, 1865. He then returned to Grays- 
ville, Greene Co., Penn., and followed agriculture 
on his father's farm, though the first year after his 
return from the army he was able to do but little 
work, as he suffered greatly from fever and ague, 
which he had contracted in the service. On 
November 11, 1868, he was married to Margaret 
Vance, who was. born in 1842, a daughter of 
Robert Vance (deceased), late of Robinson township, 
Washington county. The following children have 
been born to the union of Samuel and Margaret 
(Vance) Clutter: Robert V., in the employ of the 
Pennsylvania Railroad Company; James M. P.; 
Daniel N. ; a son, deceased in infancy; and Charles 
F. After his marriage Mr. Clutter moved to Pitts- 
burgh, where he remained nine years in the em- 
ploy of Clark & Co. , transfer agents. In 1 878 he 
moved to Washington county, locating in Hanover 
township, about two miles north of Florence, on 
the old '" Huffman farm," where he has since re- 
sided, carrying on general farming and stock rais- 
ing. Mr. Clutter is a very progressive citizen, 
and is especially interested in school matters. His 
children have all received a good education. He 
is an adherent of the Republican party, but does 
not devote much time to politics. Both he and 
wife are members of the Frankfort U. P. Church. 



=V ANKIN FAMILY. The first ancestor of 
fj the Rankin family who settled in Wash. 
ington county was William Rankin, 
great-grandfather of our subjects, and a 
native of Winchester, Va., who, about 
1774, made the hazardous journey across the 
mountains to Washington county with his wife and 










**iiijft-j*^'% 




ST^^d*^??- jya/r/U^ 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



623 



family, landing October 31, 1774. He located in 
Mt. Pleasant township, this county, securing 1 ,800 
acres of choice land, then a vast wilderness, which 
is now transformed into some of the finest farms 
of Washington county. Here he built a log cabin, 
and made such improvements as were possible, 
being in constant danger from the treacherous 
savages. But bravely and patiently he struggled 
on, establishing the pioneer home. After his sons 
had grown to manhood, one of them, James, joined 
a party who went to establish a colony in Kentucky. 
They arrived safely, but during the return trip 
were attacked by Indians, and James was killed, his 
fate being but one addition to that of the many 
pioneers who were practically martyrs to coloniza- 
tion. Mr. and Mrs. William Rankin passed the 
remainder of their lives in the frontier home, both 
dying the same year. 

Samuel Rankin, the youngest son of John, was 
born July 18, 1769, in Winchester, Va. , and came 
to this county in 1774. On January 7, 1796, he 
was married to Jane McConahey, who was born 
February 18, 1775, a daughter of a pioneer set- 
tler The following children were born to their 
union: William, John, David, Matthew, Samuel, 
Stephen, James, Matilda, Abigail and Jane, of 
whom Jane, the only one yet living, is a resident 
of Burgettstown, now aged seventy years, unmar- 
ried; the others lived to adult age, and were citi- 
zens of Washington county. Samuel Rankin be- 
came a wealthy farmer, and always lived on the 
old home farm, which is situated about two miles 
northwest of Hickory. In politics he was a Dem- 
ocrat, and he was one of the famous "Minute- 
men." In religion he and his wife were members 
of the Union Church. He died in October, 1820, 
being followed by his wife July 20, 1869, in her 
ninety fourth year; their remains lie in the U. P. 
cemetery at Hickory. Their children were as fol- 
lows: William, born November 24, 1796, died Jan- 
uary- 13, 1884; John, born April 4, 1798, died in 
April, 1866; David, born February 15, 1800, died 
July 27, 1858; Matthew, bom February 15, 1802, 
died in June, 1880; Matilda, born March 22, 1804, 
died in February. 1875; Samuel, born June 3, 
1806, died May 27, 1834; Abigail, born in Octo- 
ber, 1808, lived on the old homestead until No- 
vember 17, 1892, when she died; James, born 
March 24, 1811, died July 27, 1887; Stephen, 
born August 20, 1813, died in February, 1877, and 
Jane, born February 6, 1817, living in Burgettstown. 

William Rankin, eldest son of Samuel and Jane 
(McConahey) Rankin, was born in Mt. Pleasant 
township, this county, and remained on his father's 
farm during his boyhood, in the meantime receiv- 
ing a subscription-school education. On Decem- 
ber 16, 1819, he married Miss Nancy Lyle, who 
was born January 22, 1801, daughter of John 
Lyle, of Mt. Pleasant township, this county, and 



their children were Elizabeth, born January 21, 
1821, died February 14, 1880; Samuel, born July 
19, 1823, died in September, 1845; John L., born 
October 16, 1826, married in 1849, Elizabeth 
Campbell; David, born May 30, 1829, died in Sep- 
tember, 1845; William (a farmer of Mt. Pleasant 
township), born April 4, 1832; Jane, born March 
24, 1834, is unmarried, living in Burgettstown; and 
James, born September 2, 1836, married, in 1S64, 
Elizabeth F. Barnes, who died in 1870, and in 1880 
he married Maggie E. Forsythe, of Burgettstown. 
Mr. Rankin, by energy and perseverance, accumu- 
lated, in his agricultural pursuits, a good property. 
In politics he was a lifelong Democrat, and filled 
several township offices. He and his wife were 
consistent members of the Raccoon Presbyterian 
Church, afterward uniting with the church at Mt. 
Prospect. He died January 13, 1884, having been 
preceded by his life companion in 1870, and both 
are buried in Mt. Prospect cemetery. 

John L. Rankin was born in Mt. Pleasant town- 
ship, this county, on the farm where the earliest 
pioneer of the family had settled many years be- 
fore. He grew to manhood on the ancestral acres, as- 
sisting in agricultural duties, and receiving a neces- 
sarily limited country-school education. On Septem- 
ber 6, 1849, he was united in marriage with Elizabeth 
Campbell, who was born September 11, 1829, near 
Monongahela City, Penn.. a daughter of William 
and Nancy (Randolph) Campbell, who both died 
when Elizabeth was yet a child; she then lived with 
an uncle, John Campbell, until her marriage. 
Children have been born to the union of John L. 
and Elizabeth (Campbell) Rankin as follows: Will- 
iam D. , a practicing physician in Allegheny, Penn. ; 
John J., in Burgettstown; Nancy O. wife of A. C. 
McClnre, of Burgettstown; Ella Jane, died April 
8, 1886; Mary Elizabeth, died October 11, 1861; 
Ida May and Mary L. , residing with their parents; 
Elgie A. C, in Allegheny; Alice B., Lizzie A., 
James T., Maggie L., residing with their parents. 
After his marriage John L. Rankin located on a 
farm about three miles northwest of Hickory, 
this county, where he resided sixteen years, ex- 
tensively engaged in sheep raising. In 1866 he 
came to Smith township, purchasing a farm one 
mile south of Burgettstown, where he has since re- 
mained. Since his residence in that township, his 
home was completely destroyed by fire, but, with 
characteristic pluck and energy, he at once erected 
a building far superior to the one which had been 
burned. In polities Mr. Rankin has always been 
a Democrat, and has served his party in various 
capacities in both townships. He and his wife are 
members of the Presbyterian Church of Burgetts- 
town, in which he is an elder. 

William Rankin was born April 4, 1832, on 
the home farm in Mt. Pleasant township, and re- 
ceived his education in the district schools. On 



624 



WA SHING TOX CO UN TV. 



November 23, 1858, he was married, iu Wells 
conntv. lad., to Martha Riddile, a native of Trum- 
bull county, Ohio. Sbe was a granddaughter of 
Samuel and Martha (Johnston) Riddile. the former 
uf whom died in 1S25, in Trumbull county. Ohio, 
the latter in 1831. Andrew Riddile, father of Mrs. 
Rankin, was born iu 1799, in this county, and in 
1805 moved with his parents to Trumbull county, 
Ohio. In 1S24 he married Matilda Taylor, who 
was born in November.' 1798, in this county, a 
daughter of George Taylor, a native of Ireland, 
who died in 1833, in Mahoning county. Ohio. In 
IMH Mr. and Mrs. Riddile settled on a farm in 
Wells county, Ind. , where he died August 12, 
1854, his wife having died February 8, 1850. 
Their children were: Elizabeth (deceased iu 1855, 
wife of John Hammell, of Jay county, Ind. |; 
Samuel L. (living in Wells county, Ind. I ; George 
T. (residing iu Fort Dodge. Webster Co.. Iowa l ; 
Martha (Mrs. William Rankiu). and H. D. (living 
on the old battle-ground of TippecanAe county. 
Ind i. Our subject aud wife have always resided on 
the farm they now occupy, consisting of 100 acres 
of good land. He is an active Democrat, and has 
served his township as a member of the school board, 
aud also as supervisor. Mr. and Mrs. Rankiu attend 
the Mt. Prospect Presbyterian Church. They 
have two sons: W. F. I attending Duff's Commer- 
cial College at Pittsburgh. Penn. I and R. S. 

James Rankin was born on the home farm in 
Mt. Pleasant township, and was the youngest son 
of his parents. He received his education in the 
"Rankin school district," and has since been en- 
gaged in working on the old -farm. On January 
8, 1864, he married Elizabeth F. Barnes, a native 
of Mt. Pleasant township. She was a daughter of 
Francis and Mary Jane (Forester I Barnes, the 
former born in Virginia, the latter in Maryland, 
both settling in this county at an early day. Mrs. 
Rankin died in 1ST0, leaving three children, 
namely: William F. (married, and lived iu Creede, 
Colo., but is now in Washington county), Clement 
L. (residing in Alliance. Neb. i and Mary Jane (at 
home). On October •". 1880, Mr. Rankin was 
united in marriage with Maggie E. Forsythe. a 
native of Smith township, this county, daughter of 
William aud Sarah Ann (Gilbert) Forsythe. natives 
of New Jersey, who settled in Smith township, 
this county, over seventy years ago. The For- 
sythe family are now limited to four sisters and 
one brother, of whom three sisters are living in 
Washington county. To the union of James and 
Maggie F. I Forsythe I Rankin four children have 
been born: Eldon Lee. Leslie. Ernest and Alvin 
1 rsythe. Mr. Rankin votes the Democratic 
ticket, and has been a member of the school board. 
The home farm consists of 103 acres of well-culti- 
vated land, and he keeps a fine grade of stock. 
The Rankin faniilv trace their first settlement to 



Halloween. 17<4. James Rankin and wife are mem- 
bers of the Presbyterian Church at Mt. Prospect. 




EXRY W. JONES, a prominent citizen of 
Fniou township, is a son of Robert, whose 
father. William. was a farmer of Shropshire, 
England. He was the father of four chil- 
dren, namely: William, Thomas, John 
and Robeit. 

Robert Jones was born near Shrewsbury, in 
Shropshire, England, and was apprenticed to a 
machinist wheu yet a boy. After serving his time 
he followed this trade, principally in Birmingham, 
England. He was married to Miss Vienna Harris, 
a resident of that place, and she bore him seven 
children, as follows: John. Robert. Henry W.. 
George, Susan. Mary and Ann, of whom Henry 
W. aud George are yet living. 

Henry W. Jones was born July '20. 1820, jn 
Shrewsbury. England, where he was reared to 
manhood, and learned the machinist's trade. He 
came to Allegheny county. Penn., in 1850, and 
was employed as a millwright and steam-engine 
btiilder till 1S6-J, when he moved to Wood county. 
W. Va., locating near Parkersburgh. Here he fol- 
lowed lumbering and farming, also conducting a 
saw and planing-mill on the place. In 1888 he 
came to Fnion township. Washington Co., Penn., 
and. erecting a large planing-mill. engaged in con- 
tracting and building. He succeeded in securing 
an excellent trade, and in the spring of 1S92 gave 
the business to his sons. He was married Novem- 
ber 16, 1S52, to Miss Catherine Croco, who was 
born June 1">, 1831, a daughter of Henry Croco. of 
Allegheny county, Penn.. and to this union have 
been born eight children: Vienna (deceased), 
Keffer. Frank C. , Charles. Mary (deceased). Wes- 
ley, Elmer and Sydney. The six sous are all em- 
ployed in the planing-mill, or contracting. The 
mother died April 10, 1SSS, since which time Mr. 
Jones has made his home with his son Frank C. 
Iu politics the father is a stanch Prohibitionist, 
aud has held numerous township offices in West 
Virginia. He is a member of the Presbyterian 
Church. In 1892, accompanied by hisson Charles, 
he visited his old home in England, but fouud his 
relatives all scattered. The old country no longer 
seemed home to him, for truly has the poet said: 
"Home is where the heart is;" and the affections 
and interests of Mr. Jones are now on this side of 
the Atlantic, although he will ever cherish a fond 
memory of dear old England. 



*T~\ OBERT SAMPLE is a well-known resident 
L*^ of the borough of Washington. He is of 
\ Irish descent, his grandparents having 
J - lived and died in " Old Erin." 
v David Sample, his father, was born in 

1801, in County Donegal. Ireland, and when about 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



625 



twenty years of age immigrated to America. He 
first located in Ohio county, W. Va., where he was 
united in marriage with Mary Sample, also a na- 
tive of County Donegal. In 1835 they came to 
West Finley township, Washington Co., Penn. , 
and in 1859 purchased and moved upon a farm in 
Donegal township, same county. Their children 
were Robert, John (deceased), and Joseph (a res- 
ident of Donegal township). The mother died 
January 22, 1867, at the age of seventy-three years, 
and August 11, 1879, the father was laid by her 
side. They were members of the West Alexander 
Presbyterian Church. 

Robert Sample, whose name introduces this 
memoir, was born October 14, 1827, in Ohio county, 
W. Va., and when eight years old came with his 
parents to West Finley townshijD, this county. On 
January 1, 1857, he was united in marriage with 
Mary Elizabeth, daughter of Robert Burns, but 
she died July 19, 1859, leaving one daughter, Mary 
Catherine (now the wife of N. R. Tannehill, of 
Cecil township, Washington county). For his 
second wife Mr. Sample married on May 6, 1868, 
Miss Nancy Tannehill. who bore him two children, 
Nancy and David R. In 1872 our subject came to 
Washington, and in 187 1 built his present residence 
on Highland avenue, having rented his farm in 
Donegal township. He has assisted in the erection of 
many of the dwellings in the town, and in 1870 was 
awarded the contract for building the crematory 
there. Mr. Sample began life a poor boy, and 
by industry, energy and perseverance has achieved 
an enviable success. Iq politics he is a member of 
the Democratic party, in religion a Presbytarian. 



J | AMES RONEY, son of James. and Jane (Mc- 
Whirter) Roney, was born near Canonsburg, 
) August 17, 1813, on the farm now owned by 
his daughter, Mrs. G. M. Smith. The old 
farm has been the home and visiting place 
of seven generations. His parents first settled in 
South Carolina, where, tradition says, they pros- 
pered. Their principles being so antagonistic to 
the institution of human slavery, they left their 
home in the South and migrated to western Penn- 
sylvania. Here they built a house (still standing) 
from logs cut in the forest and hewn into shape by 
the immediate ancestors of James Roney. His 
parents were most exemplary members of the Re- 
formed Presbyterian Church — better known as the 
Old Side Covenanters. " 

He had four brothers and four sisters, namely: 
Moses, William, John, and one who died in infancy; 
Jane, Margaret, Rebecca and Sarah. Moses, in 
1818, entered Canonsburg Academy, and graduated 
with first honors from Jefferson College in 1823. 
He studied theology in Coldenham, N. Y., under 



the direction of Rev. Dr. J. R. Wilson, and was 
licensed by the Pittsburgh Presbyter} 7 , June 8, 
1829. He was ordained and installed pastor of the 
Newburg, N. Y., congregation, afterward accepted 
the presidency of Westminster College, where he 
continued to labor until his death. He was one of 
the most influential and eloquent ministers of the 
Covenanter Church. On one occasion he was to 
preach at the old house, and, as the custom was at 
that time, he preached out of doors. It has been 
said that every word was distinctly heard half a 
mile distant. He was married to Miss Elizabeth 
F. Beattie, of Coldenham, N. Y. , whose mother 
was descended from the Belknap family of that re- 
gion. W r illiam was married to Lydia Thomas, of 
North Strabane township. He resided on his farm 
near Haneytown, Marshall conuty,W.Va. John mar- 
ried Margaret George, of near Hickory, Washington 
county; he owns and lives on a farm near Clays- 
ville. Margaret married John George, of Venice, 
Washington Co., Penn.; Jane married Isaac E. 
MeKenry, of Allegheny, Penn., where they lived 
for a number of years, then moved to near Craw- 
fordsville, Iowa; Rebecca and Sarah died in early 
girlhood at the home of their parents. At this 
date (1893) only two of the family survive, namely: 
John Roney and Jane MeKenry. 

James Roney married, March 4, 1844, Elizabeth, 
daughter of James Gibson. She bore him two 
daughters and one son, namely : Grizella Margaret, 
born May 27, 1845; Moses Gibson, born June 28, 
1854 (deceased when ten months old); Jane Eliza- 
beth, born September 23, I860, died August 12, 
1877. Grizella Margaret Roney, in early girlhood, 
was married to William M. Smith; two daughters 
were born to this marriage: Elizabeth Jane, wife 
of David John Sterling (has two children — Hugh 
Samuel and Margaret Roney), and Maggie Grizella, 
living at home with her mother. Mrs. Smith owns 
valuable property in Canonsburg, where she now 
resides. D. J. Sterling superintends the farm of 
Mrs. Smith, and operates in oil. The place is well 
improved and contains three gas wells, and yields 
a good income. Mrs. Smith and daughter, Mag- 
gie, are members of the Reformed Presbyterian 
Church of Miller's Run, near Venice. Mr. and 
Mrs. D. J. Sterling are members of the United 
Presbyterian Church of Ingram. 

The Roney family have always been noted for 
their hospitality and kindly disposition. James 
Roney died of apoplexy November 4, 1884, and 
was interred in the Hill Church burying ground. 
His widow, who had suffered from the effects of a 
paralytic stroke for five years, died at the home of 
her daughter, Mrs. G. M. Smith, July 24, 1888, and 
was laid by the side of her husband. 

[For further information of the ancestors of tin- said 
James Roney, see page 1182 of " The History of Washing- 
ton County, Penu.," edited by Boyd Crumrine, 1882. 



626 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



J. McADAM, professor of mathematics in 
Washington and Jefferson College, is a 



nJj native of the Buckeye State, born August 
2, 1843, in Moorefield township, Harrison 
county, a son of John and Susan (Dunlap) Mc- 
Adam, worthy farming people of that township; 
the latter a daughter of John and Nancy Dunlap, 
of Harrison county. They were the parents of 
children as follows: Nancy, Eliza and Mary (Mrs. 
John Compiler), deceased; Sarah, Mrs. John Lewis; 
Rebecca, Mrs. Samuel Willoughby; George; D. J. 
and Margaret (Mrs. James Glascow). The mother 
of this family departed this life in 1849, and for 
his second wife Mr. McAdam married, in 1851, Har- 
riet Linn, of Harrison county, Ohio, by whom there 
was no issue. Mr. McAdam died in 1852; he had 
been a consistent member of the Union Church 
from his youth up, and for some years was an elder 
in the same; politically he was a straight Demo- 
crat, socially a man of public spirit and enter- 
prise, popular and generally respected. 

D. J. McAdam was reared to farm work, his 
education being had at the common schools of his 
native township, where he proved an apt and dili- 
gent scholar and from early life he evinced a strong 
penchant for study and literature. After leaving 
school, he spent one year in Franklin College, and 
then entered Washington and Jefferson College, 
from which he graduated with honor in 1868. His 
education being now completed, he assumed the 
role of educator, his first school being at Harlem 
Springs, Carroll Co., Ohio, whence, after a year he 
came to Cauonsburg, this county, in which learned 
town he remained one year, in the capacity of 
tutor. He then moved to Cadiz, Ohio, and en- 
tered the office of Lawyer Estep, with whom he 
remained one year, at the end of which time 
he was appointed principal of the schools of 
Carrollton, Ohio, his incumbency covering three 
years; the public schools at that place had just 
been opened, and the work of grading, by virtue 
of his position, fell on him. In 1S73 our subject 
accepted the chair of Latin in Washington and 
Jefferson College, but at the end of one year was 
transferred to the chair of mathematics, in the 
same college, which he now fills. 

On July 8, 1875, Prof. McAdam was married to 
Kate, daughter of Capt. Alexander Wishart, of 
Washington. Penn., and four children were the 
result of this union, as follows: Alexander (de- 
ceased), Dunlap, John and Kate. His wife died 
May 8, 1882. Our subject married in May, 1888, 
Rebecca, daughter of John D. Braden, and two 
children have come to further bless their home — 
Braden and George. Prof. McAdam, in his polit- 
ical associations, is an ardent Democrat, and in 
religion is a member of the First Presbyterian 
Church of Washington. 



WILHELM H. GUNDLACH was born in 
Germany September 2:!, 1861, a son of 
Henry and Caroline Gundlach, also na- 
tives of the Fatherland, the father bcrn 
in 1806, and died in 1867 at the age of 
sixty-one years. They were the parents of four 
sons — Wilhelm H., Henry, Frederick and Charley 
- — and three daughters — Hannah, Minnie and an- 
other whose name is not recorded — all yet living in 
Germany, except Wilhelm H. and Charley, the 
latter of whom is now a resident of this county. 
near Hickory. 

Wilhelm H. Gundlach received his education in 
the public schools of his native land, learning to 
read from text-books common in use at that time 
in Germany — the Bible and the catechism. In 
1881 he immigrated to America, finally locat- 
ing in Hopewell township, Washington Co., Penn., 
where he resided six years, at the end of which time 
he moved to the farm in W T est Bethlehem town- 
ship, containing 118 acres of prime land, where he 
passed the remainder of his life. . On April 19, 
18S8, he was married to Caroline, daughter of 
Henry A. and Sophia Gundlach, who were the 
parents of three sons — Solomon H. , Charley A., 
and Earnest L. — and three daughters — Caroline 
(married to Wilhelm H. Gundlach), Louisa A. (mar- 
ried Julv 23, 1891, to Emmor Ames; they have 
one child Elsie Pearl, born February 2(1, 1892), 
and Minnie S. Mr. and Mrs. Henry A. Guudlach 
are members of the Lutheran Church in West 
Bethlehem township; for twenty-seven years they 
have been residents of Washington county. To 
Mr. and Mrs. Wilhelm H. Gundlach were born 
three children, as follows: Sophia Winnett, born 
January 10, 1889; Louisa A., born October 5, 
1890. "died April 5, 1891, and Henry Wilhelm 
Alfred, born June 5, 1892. The father of these 
little ones died January 29, 1893, aged thirty-two 
years. He was a member of the Lutheran Church, 
as is his grief-stricken widow. 



J> 



I M US. MARGARET McCREADY, one of 
\f\ the oldest settlers, and most highly 
\i I esteemed in the community where she re- 
-* sides, is a granddaughter of John Boyd, 
who was born in Ireland about the mid- 
dle of the eighteenth century, and coming to 
America in early manhood settled near West Mid- 
dletown, Hopewell township, this county. Soon 
after his arrival in Pennsylvania, he was united in 
marriage with Miss Martha Mathon, who bore him 
four sons — John, James, Thomas and Robert — and 
five daughters — Margaret. Nancy. Mary. Rachel 
and Sarah. He was a Democrat, and a member of 
the Presbyterian Church. 

Robert Boyd, father of Mrs. McCready, was born 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



629 



January 21, 1788, on the home farm near West 
Middletown, Hopewell township. The Indians 
were so hostile at that time that the family betook 
themselves to a more thickly populated district in 
Beaver county, Penn., where they remained some 
time. After the Indians had left the country, the 
family returned to this county, locating in Han- 
over township, where Robert grew to' manhood, 
and was married to Miss Catherine McCausland, 
also a resident of that township. Nine children 
were born to their union, of whom four are yet liv- 
ing: George, Presley, Martha and Margaret. In 
his politics he was a stanch Democrat. 

Margaret Boyd was born August 18, 1822, on 
the farm in Hanover township. Her childhood 
and early womanhood were passed in the pioneer 
home, then surrounded by various wild animals, as 
many as eight deer being often seen in one group. 
On February 26, 1857, she became the wife of 
William McCready, a son of Robert McCready, 
and now resides in Jefferson township. 

Robert McCready, father of William, was born 
in Scotland, March 28, 1752, and in 1772 immi- 
grated to America, first locating in the State of 
New Jersey. He then went to York county, 
Penn., teaching school there until the Revolution, 
when he entered a York county battalion, serving 
several months in the ''Flying Camp'' Division 
under Washington. In 1770 he left the service, 
and came to Washington county, Penn., locating 
on a tract of 332 acres in Jefferson township. Soon 
afterward he was united in marriage with Miss 
Anna Levins, a lady of Irish descent, who bore 
him nine children, as follows: David, Robert, 
William, John, Joseph, Mary, Nancy, and two 
deceased. He died August 10, 1840. 

William McCready was born August 1, 1797, on 
the home farm in Jefferson township, and was 
reared to agricultural pursuits, purchasing the 
old place after the death of his father. He was 
married, as already stated, to Margaret Boyd, who 
bore him one son, Robert, April 7, 1858, who was 
married May 6, 1880, to Nancy E. Cassidy,' daugh- 
ter of William Cassidy; he lives on the home place, 
and, like his father and grandfather before him, 
votes the Democratic ticket. William McCready 
died November 6, 1860, leaving over 300 acres of 
fine land to his heirs. He was a typical self-made 
man, liberal in thought and action, and was highly 
esteemed by all who knew him. 

Joseph McCready, a nephew of William Mc- 
Cready, was born and reared in Columbiana county, 
Ohio, and was there married to Martha Campbell, 
a native of the same county. She bore him chil- 
dren as follows: James, Joseph, Robert, Cynthia 
and Margaret. For his second wife he was mar- 
ried to Catherine Boyd, a sister of Mrs. Margaret 
McCready, and the names of the children of this 



union are Lizzie O, Rilla and George. Mr. Mc- 
Cready was a Republican and a Presbyterian. He 
and his wife are both now deceased. 



d,AMES A. McILVAINE, one of the enter- 
prising and prominent citizens of Mt. 
) Pleasant township, is a native of the same. 
born December 22, 1840, on the home farm. 
His grandfather, Greer Mcllvaine, was of Irish 
descent, and a native of Lancaster county, Penn., 
where he was married to Elizabeth Morrow, who 
was born in the same county. The young couple 
came to Washington county in an early day, 
accompanied by a brother, George Mcllvaine. On 
May 20, 1788, Greer secured 407 acres of land in 
Somerset township, which was surveyed to him 
February 11, 1789, and afterward divided with 
his brother. Greer and Elizabeth Mcllvaine were 
members of the Presbyterian Church at Pigeon 
Creek. Their children were Greer, John, Guyan, 
George. William, Andrew, Margaret, Mary, Ruth, 
Catherine, Elizabeth, Esther, Ann and Eleanor. 

Guyan Mcllvaine was born in 1 (92, in Somerset 
township, on the home farm, where his earl}' years 
were passed. He was united in marriage with 
Jane Ferguson, a native of Somerset township, 
who bore him four children: Lydia (widow of John 
Phillips), living in Greene county, Penn. ; William 
Greer (deceased in 1882, at Memphis, Tenn.), was 
married in Vieksburg; Robert F. , residing in 
Rochester, Beaver Co., Penn.; and John M., 
living in Mt. Pleasant township. Mrs. Mcllvaine 
died in 1823, and in 1830 Guyan Mcllvaine was 
married to Jane Bratton, a native of Lancaster 
county, Penn., and they settled in Mt. Pleasant 
township, on the home farm. The following 
children were born to their union: Harvey (resid- 
ing in Kansas), Anna Eliza (married to William 
M. Campbell, of Cross Creek township), Joseph 
Lawrence (an editor, of New Philadelphia, Ohio), 
Boyd (a resident of Illinois), Belle Jane (of Mt. 
Pleasant township), James A., Mary Esther and 
Martha Ellen (Mrs. Harper Simanton, of Mt. 
Pleasant township). This family is a remarkable 
one. The twelve children all grew to maturity; 
all married and have families of their own, except 
two, and all are yet living but the oldest son, who 
died in 1882. Mr. Mcllvaine was first a Whig, 
then a Know-nothing, and afterward a Republican. 
He and his wife were members of the Presbyterian 
Church at Mt. Prospect. He died in 1868, having 
been preceded by his wife in 1860. 

James A. Mcllvaine, a son of Guyan and Jane 
(Bratton) Mcllvaine, was born on his father's farm 
in Mt. Pleasant township, this county, and 
attended the schools of the neighborhood. On 
November 19, 1868, he was united in marriage 



r,:>.( i 



WASHINGTON COUNTV. 



with Martha A. McBurney, daughter of John and 
Jane (Keys) McBurney, natives and lifelong 
residents of Washington county. After his mar 
riage James A. Mcllvaine settled on the farm of 
14<; acres, where he was born and has always 
lived, and has since followed agricultural pursuits. 
Six children have been born to this couple, viz.: 
Eulalie (teaching in Hickory, this county), J. C, 
Mamie (teaching in Hopewell township, Washing- 
ton county), Nettie. Willie A. and Bessie. Mr. 
and Mrs. Mcllvaine are members of Mt. Pleasant 
United Presbyterian Church, at Hickory. He is 
actively interested in education, being a member 
of the school board of Mt. Pleasant township. 
He takes quite an interest in politics, voting with 
the Republican party. 



EiBENEZER BROWNLEE (deceased), in his 
lifetime one of the prosperous farmers and 
successful business men of the county, was 
agraudson of William Brownlee, Sr., who in 
an early day came to Washington county from his 
native land, Scotland, and made a settlement in 
Franklin township about four miles south of the 
borough of Washington. He here married Mar- 
garet Lehman, by whom there were several chil- 
dren, and of them, William, Jr., born October 13, 
ITS'.!, in Franklin township, this county, became 
the father of the subject of this sketch. 

William Brownlee, Jr., in his early life was a 
regular pioneer farmer boy, and his schooltraining, 
a somewhat primitive one, w;is most limited. On 
November 17, 1814, he was married to Jean Car- 
son, who was born March 22, 1791, and the results 
of this union were eight children, of whom Eben- 
ezer, the subject of this sketch, was born April 2, 
L825, in West Finley township, Washington Co., 
Penn. The father died March 24, 1846, the 
mother, January 23, 1N44. 

Early in life Ebenezer Brownlee learned the 
trade of tanner at Good Intent, West Finley town- 
ship, which he followed, however, only a short 
time, as he returned to the home farm and re- 
mained with his parents during the rest of their 
lifetime. On November 25, 1847, he was united in 
marriage with Eliza Davidson, who was born March 
12, 1824, in West Finley township, a daughter of 
James Davidson, a native of the county, of Irish 
descent, born in 17S2 near West Brownsville. To 
the union of Ebenezer and Eliza (Davidson) Brown- 
lee there came the following named children: Rob- 
ert D., born November 13, 1840, now in Otoe 
county, Neb., where he carries on stock dealing; 
George, born August 10, 1851, also in Otoe county, 
a farmer; James C, born February 4, 1854, a 
physician in Kansas City, Mo.; John, born Febru- 
ary 28, 1856, died May 24, 1890; Samuel, born 
October 27, 1858; and Jennie, born March 23, 



1863, an intelligent and cultured young lad}'. 
After his marriage Mr. Brownlee lived five years 
in East Finley township, on Robinson's fork of 
Wheeling creek; then during the subsequent rive 
years had his residence in West Finley township, 
on the Martin Armstrong place; thence moved to 
Donegal township, on the William McMurray 
farm which he had purchased, and which is situ- 
ated about half a mile south of West Alexander. 
Here he continued to reside until his death, which 
occurred December 14, 1888. He was very suc- 
cessful in all his undertakings, and accumulated 
considerable valuable property. He was a mem- 
ber of the United Presbyterian Church, and in pol- 
itics he was a stanch Republican, one of the influ- 
ential advisers of the party. He was a strong Ab- 
olitionist, a great friend to the negro. His widow 
departed this life July 14, 1892. 



If F. McCLAY, one of the progressive and in- 
dustrious young farmers of Canton township, 
rjj is a native of the same, born May 24, 1859. 
^^ He is a grandson of Samuel McClay who em- 
igrated from Ireland to America at an early 
date, finally locating in Washington county, where 
his children were born. 

David McClay, father of subject, was born June 
11, 1811, near the home farm in Canton township, 
this county, and there passed his youth, where 
long hours of toil, brightened with but little recre- 
ation, was the rule of life. His early education 
was much neglected, the only problem which he 
had leisure or opportunity to solve being how to 
maintain an existence. Thus, amid the wilds of the 
forest, educated in the rough but thorough school 
of nature, and surrounded by all the privations of 
pioneer life, was formed the character of the man 
who was destined to be a leader among his associ- 
ates. From the stern teacher, experience, he 
learned hard lessons, which in after life developed 
into priceless habits of economy and industry that 
made his future a success. Notwithstanding the 
lack of school training Mr. McClay became an 
earnest reader, and with the aid of keen observa- 
tion soon overcame the deficiencies of his early 
youth. On January 31. 1840, he was united in 
marriage with Margaret McElrov, whose family 
were among the earlier settlers of the county. After 
their marriage the young couple settled on the 
farm which is the present home of their son, J. F. 
It was then in a rude state of cultivation, but has 
since been improved until it is now one of the finest 
places in the township. Mr. and Mrs. McClay had 
children as follows: James (deceased in infancy); 
James M. (who enlisted in Company B, First "Wesi 
Virginia Cavalry, and died February 25, 1862, 
from disease contracted in the service); William 
A.; Nanuie (deceased); Samuel; David (deceased), 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



631 



and J. F. Mr. McClay was a Republican and an 
active worker in the party, and was elected to the 
same office for three terms, and was serving in that 
capacity at the time of his death. In 185") he 
united with the Christian Church at West Middle 
town, which was under the ministry of Isaac Ever- 
ett, but eventually he became a member of the 
Christian Church at Washington. He owned 400 
acres of land at the time of his death, which oc- 
curred April 5, 1887. 

J. F. McClay spent his early youth upon the 
farm, securing his education at the common schools. 
On November 6, 1879, he married Sarah E. Fer- 
gus, daughter of John Fergus, of Washington 
county, and they reared the following family: 
Charles G., Nannie B., John F. and Thomas M. 
Since his marriage Mr. McClay has continued to 
remain on the home farm, which he now owns. 
He is a promising young man, and is always inter- 
ested in any enterprise tending to the advancement 
of the community. He is a valued member of the 
Republican party. Both he and his wife are mem- 
bers of the Christian Church at Washington. 



JAMES KELLY (deceased) was a son of 
William Kelly, who was born in Ireland and 
received a good common-school education. 
William Kelly was married to Martha Mc- 
Courtney, who bore him the following chil- 
dren: Mary (Mrs. Richard Mounts), Jane (wife of 
John Mounts), Sarah (Mrs. Robert Marshall), 
Elizabeth (Mrs. William Montgomery), John and 
James (all of whom are now deceased). After 
their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Kelly immigrated to 
America, locating in Shippensburgh, Penn., where 
he died November 1, 1779, and was followed to the 
grave by his wife January 2, 1827. The sons, 
John and James, then moved to Washington 
county, Penn., where they invested extensively in 
farm land. 

James Kelly was born March 1, 1779, in Ship- 
pensburgh, Penn., and passed his boyhood on his 
father's farm. He received a good education, and 
after removing to Washington county was elected 
to several offices of trust, the duties of which he 
tilled to the satisfaction of all. He was an enthu- 
siastic and prominent member of the Democratic 
party. He married Catherine, daughter of Andrew 
and Mary (Duncan) Rogers, and their children 
were Martha. Mary, Catherine, Elizabeth, Sarah 
A., Ellen, William, Jackson and James. Of the 
above family the living members are Jackson (liv- 
ing in Pittsburgh, Penn.), Catherine and Sarah A. 
(wife of John W. Exline, living on the old home 
farm on the National pike in Buffalo township), 
Ellen (wife of James C. Stewart, of Buffalo town- 
ship) and Martha (who died May 18, 1891, at the 
age of seventy years). 



Hi ENRY H. LAMB is a prominent and suc- 
I cessful merchant of West Alexander. His 
ancestors were natives of Virginia, his 
-* grandfather, John Lamb, having passed 
his entire life in that State, where he was 
married. John Lamb had one son, John (the 
father of our subject). He was a leading Dem- 
ocrat in politics, and in religious faith a prom- 
inent member of the Dunkard Church. 

John Lamb, only child of John Lamb, was 
born in Virginia, and was married in his native 
State to Mary (daughter of John Sponoggle) who 
bore him children as follows: William (killed at 
the battle of Gettysburg), Nathaniel, David, 
Ambrose (deceased), John D., Margaret (Mrs. 
Noel Whitecotton) and Henry H. Mr. Lamb en- 
listed in the First Regiment of the Southern army, 
and served under the gallant General Lee through- 
out the entire war. Politically he has always been 
a Democrat, and has taken an active interest in 
politics. 

Henry H. Lamb was born on August 12, 1864, 
in Virginia, and passed his youth in Virginia and 
West Virginia. On October 11, 1882, he was 
united in marriage with Mary B., an adopted 
daughter of Benjamin Leonard Craven, whose 
father (John Craven) was born in Washington 
county, Penn., of German parents. He was 
married to Sarah Leonard, a resident of the same 
county, and to them were born the following chil- 
dren: Joshua, Regin, Jacob, Benjamin, John, 
William, Phoebe, Sarah, Mary and Nancy. 

Benjamin Leonard Craven was born in Decem- 
ber, 1811, near Beallsville, Penn., and received 
his early education in the schools of that neighbor- 
hood. At the age of eighteen years he commenced 
life for himself by driving stage from Cumberland 
to Wheeling, and followed this occupation for 
years, when he opened a general store in Taylors- 
town, this county, and some years later moved to 
Claysville. In 1840 he came to West Alexander, 
where he continued in business thirty years, 
retiring in 1870. He was first married to 
Jemima Mitchell, who bore him one son, David, 
who died in youth. For his second wife he was 
married to Jaue McConahey, of Buffalo township. 
He was a successful business man, and dealt 
largely in wool and general produce, obtaining a 
competence by his own exertions. In politics he 
was an active Democrat, and served as postmaster 
several years. He was a member and liberal sup- 
porter of the Presbyterian Church, in which he 
filled the office of trustee many years. On Sep- 
tember 25, 1883, he passed away, and was buried 
in the cemetery at West Alexander. He was a 
warm friend of education, taking an active part in 
the progress of the schools. 

To the union of Henry H. and Mary B. (Craven) 
Lamb have been born three children: Benjamin. 



632 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Leonard, Henry Roy and Lawrence C. Mr. 
Lamb has been engaged in farming and stock 
raising. In April, 1891, he entered mercantile 
business, and is now conducting a general store. 
Politically he is a Republican. 



»frY OBEET W. MUNNELL was born May 10, 
lW7 1828, in South Strabane township, Wash- 

(" V^ ington Co., Penn. He is of Irish descent, 
Jj -^ his grandfather, John Munnell, having 
v been born and reared in Ireland, where he 

was married to a Miss Wallace, who bore him the 
followiug named children: Hugh, John, Thomas, 
Elizabeth (Mrs. Scott), Mrs. Hand and Samuel. 
Mr. Munnell came to Washington county among 
the earliest settlers, and located in South Strabane 
township. In political life he was a Democrat, 
and in religion a member of the Presbyterian 
Church. 

Samuel Munnell was born in 1795 in South Stra- 
bane township, Washington county, and passed his 
early life on the home farm. He was married to 
Nancy McQuiston, of Butler county, Penn., and 
they immediately settled on the farm place, where 
their lives were passed. Their children were Isa- 
bella, John (deceased), Robert W., Sarah J., 
Samuel, Thomas (deceased), Catherine E. (Mrs. 
John Herron), William (deceased), James, Mary 
E. (Mrs. Adam Hall) and Charles (deceased). 
Mr. Munnell always followed the vocations of agri- 
culture and stock raising. In politics he was a 
Democrat, taking an active interest in public mat- 
ters. He was a member of the Presbyterian 
Church. Samuel Munnell passed away December 
3, 1881, and was followed to the grave by his 
widow March 26, 1891. 

Robert W. Munnell passed his early life on the 
farm in South Strabane township, and gained his 
first educational knowledge in an abandoned 
" still-house," which was on the home place, and 
had been converted into a "hall of learning" for 
the benefit of the ambitious urchins. On Novem- 
ber '9, 1860, he was married to Margaret A., 
daughter of Joseph Herron, and the young people 
first settled on a farm in South Strabane township, 
where they remained until 1878, when Mr. Mun- 
nell moved to his present home. Three children 
have been born to them: Samuel W,, Thomas H. 
■ and John H. Of these, Samuel W. was, on May 
28, 1891, married to Adda, daughter of John J. 
Gilbert, of New Stark, Hancock Co., Ohio, who 
died June 19, L892. Mr. Munnell is an energetic 
citizen, and in politics is a Democrat. He is a 
member of the Chart iers Presbyterian Church, 
and is now serving as an elder. 

John Munnell (deceased brother of Robert W.) 
passed his boyhood on the home farm, and on 
March 26. L851, was married to. Susan J. Blackly, 



of Gettysburg, Penn., who bore him children as 
follows: Nancy J., Mary E. (wife of Samuel Hun- 
nell), Anna B., James W., Charles E. (deceased), 
Robert and John W. On December 3, 1869, Mr. 
Munnell married for his second wife Mary S., 
daughter of Robert McFerren, of Beaver county. 
Penn. Mr. Munnell was a merchant in Waynes- 
burgh, Greene county. In politics he was a Dem- 
ocrat until the Civil war, and then became an ardent 
advocate of the Republican principles. He died 
January 12, 1889, a member of the Presbyterian 
Church at Waynesburgh, Greene county. 



H 



ENRY McDONOUGH, a prominent agri- 
culturist of Somerset township, this county, 
is a native of the same. His grandfather, 
Henry McDouough, was a native of Ireland, 
and came to Pennsylvania in an early day. 
He followed the blacksmith's trade in connection 
with farming and distilling, carrying on an ex- 
tensive distillery, although a strict member of the 
Baptist Church, of which he was an elder for sev- 
eral years. Politically he was a Republican. He 
died in 1869, in Washington county, Penn. The 
maternal grandfather of our subject, Robert Ma- 
han, came across the mountains in the seventeenth 
century, and settled in Washington county, Penn., 
where he helped to erect a log church where the 
Pigeon Creek Presbyterian church is now stand 
ing. The family afterward moved to Ohio. He 
was an active worker in the Democratic party, 
serving as a representative of Washington county 
in the State Legislature. He and his wife died in 
Medina county, Ohio, the former having passed 
away in his ninetieth year. 

Henry McDonough was born in 1797, and reared 
on a farm near Vanceville, Washington Co., Penn., 
receiving a common school education. He was 
united in marriage with Margaret Mahan, who bore 
him children as follows: H^enry (whose name opens 
this sketch), Robert and David (in Marshall county. 
111.), Joseph (farming in Monroe county, 111.), 
Elizabeth (wife of Samuel Hill, a farmer of Benton 
county, Iowa), Mary, John and -James, the latter 
three of whom are deceased. Mr. McDonough 
voted the Republican ticket, and served Somerset 
township as justice of the peace for several years. 
He died in 1871, having been preceded to the 
grave in lst>7 by his wife. Both were members 
of the Presbyterian Church. 

Henry McDonough was born January 5, 1831, 
and grew to manhood on the home farm, atteud- 
ing the district schools during his boyhood. On 
November 6, 1S51, he was united in marriage with 
Mary Smith, who was born in 1829, in Washington 
county, Penn., daughter of John and Jane (Mor- 
ton) Smith. To the union of Henry and Mary 
i Smith) McDouough four children were born, viz.: 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



633 



John S.,born October 30, 1S52 (deceased October 
2, 1885); Jane (married on December 13, 1889, to 
Theodore Bargan, a farmer of Somerset township, 
this county), born in December, 1858; and two that 
died in infancy. The mother was a member of the 
Disciple Church. She died August 4, 1S64, and 
on November 8, 1866, Mr. McDonough made 
choice of a second wife in the person of Elmira 
Morton, who was born June 27, 1839, in Washing- 
ton county, Penn., daughter of James and Elmira 
(Springer) Morton. To this union three children 
have been born as follows: Elizabeth (married to 
James Sprowls, a farmer of Fallowfield township, 
this county), born November 28, 1867; James H. 
(deceased), born June 2, 1874; and Ida (living at 
home), born August 7, 1876. Mr. McDonough is 
a Republican, and has served his township as audi- 
tor, assessor and school director. He owns a good 
and well-cultivated farm, consisting of 160 acres. 
He and his wife are members of the Disciple Church. 



If SAAC VAN VOORHIS, one of the most prom- 
inent agriculturists and stockmen of Wash- 
I ington county, is a son of Daniel Van Voorhis, 
whose father was also named Daniel. The 
grandfather was born and reared in Holland, 
choosing from early boyhood " a life on the ocean 
wave." He was a sailor for twenty-four years, 
being captain of an Atlantic vessel during the lat- 
ter part of that time. Finally tiring of the sea, he 
located in Long Island, N. Y. , purposing to there 
make a permanent home; but his roving disposition 
led him farther west, and he finalty located in 
Washington county, Penn., on the tract of laud in 
Carroll township where Monongahela now stands, 
and here passed the best of his life. 

Daniel Van Voorhis, father of subject, was born 
and reared on the farm in Carroll township, this 
county. Here he erected a gristmill, still- house 
and sawmill, and employed a large number of 
hands. After the death of his father he took 
charge of the business, which had rapidly in- 
creased, virtually being the foundation of Monga- 
hela City. In early life Daniel Van Voorhis was 
married to Mary, daughter of Henry Fry, who had 
married Miss Spears, a sister of the well-known 
divine, Henry Spears. To Daniel and Mary (Fry) 
Van Voorhis the following children were born: 
Newton (deceased); L. G., a resident of Morgan - 
town, Penn. ; Abraham (deceased); John (living in 
Kansas); Isaac (of whom further mention is made); 
Daniel (deceased); Jerome (living in Iowa); Har- 
vey (residing in Spearville, Kans.); Sarah (Mrs. 
Cooper, living in Nottingham township, this 
county); Christina (Mrs. Fry, living in Finleyville, 
. Penn.), and Mary (married to Frank Bentley, of 
Monongahela, Penn.). The mother died at the 
patriarchal age of ninety-five years, and when 



the father passed away he left 1,000 acres of land, 
which in his active years he had cleared, cultivated 
and planted to corn. 

Isaac Van Voorhis was born March 27, 1823, in 
Carroll township, this county, near the head- 
waters of Pigeon creek. He attended the common 
school until about sixteen years of age, when he 
was given entire charge of the stock on his father's 
immense farm. Before assuming the duties of 
this position, he started on a trip to Kentucky, 
intending to purchase cattle, but finding nothing 
to suit him in the " Blue-Grass region " he jour- 
neyed northwest to Ohio, and there purchased 150 
head of stock. On his return home, when about 
half way, the boy was met by his father and 
brother Jerome, who took charge of the herd, 
givingour young " cowboy " instructions to " face 
about"' and purchase another lot. Accordingly he 
made a second successful trip, to the satisfaction 
and delight of the family, who had been half 
doubtful of the result of the experiment. The 
youthful drover afterward made frequent western 
trips, soon accumulating a snug sum of money. 
He was the first to drive cattle to the East, seventy- 
five miles below St. Louis. He would start on 
horseback from the "Big Muddy," swimming 
the rivers, and on one occasion, on crossing the 
Muskingum, which was full of floating ice, his 
cattle sank in a quick sand, and he himself had a 
narrow escape from drowning. In 1846 he left 
the paternal roof, and began bjusiness for himself 
by investing in land in Somerset township, this 
county. About this time he received $3,000 as 
his portion of his father's estate, and then began 
a career almost unparalleled for unfailing business 
successes. His life has been devoted to rearing, 
fattening and dealing in stock. In boyhood he 
earned the first horse he ever owned by splitting 
rails for 50 cents a hundred. It is needless to 
add that since the proud day when he received the 
deserved reward for blistered hands and aching 
limbs, Isaac Van Voorhis has never been without a 
good horse. He has reared and broken many of 
high breed and speed, that have since made good 
record, one of the most valuable being "Gray 
Hawk,"' which he sold for $3,000 to his brother 
Harvey, a resident of Kansas. His real estate 
now consists of 800 acres of very valuable land, • 
upon which is erected one of the finest houses in 
Washington county. It is a matter of special in- 
terest that this home is situated od the highest 
point between the Alleghany Mountains and the 
Rocky Mountains. Mr. Van Voorhis also owns a 
large farm near Chicago, 111., which he stocks with 
western cattle. The path to success is never 
easy, although it may seem so to the admiring or 
envious onlooker; and, in the case of Mr. Van- 
Voorhis, many hardships were endured which space 
forbids us to here enumerate, and many obstacles 



634 



WASHING TON CO UN T Y. 



overcome, ere he reached the pinnacle which he 
now occupies. He has visited nearly every State 
in the Union, and in his travels has swani every 
river between the Alleghanies and the Mississippi 
river. 

On August 26, 1846, our subject was married 
to Elmira, daughter of Thomas Hopkins, whose 
ancestors were an old and prominent family of 
Scotland. Mr. and Mrs. Van Voorhis have been 
blessed with the following children: Samuel (de- 
ceased); Thomas and Frank (twins), Frank (de- 
ceased); Thomas (living); Van Enier (living at 
home); Selina (wife of Henry Huffman, a resident 
of West Bethlehem township); Lizzie (Mrs. Groot- 
man, living in Pittsburgh, Penn., where her hus- 
band is engaged in the oil and soap business); 
and Charlie (yet living at home). 

In addition to what has been previously stated 
in regard to the reputation of Mr. Van Voorhis as 
a stockman, he also enjoys the enviable distinc- 
tion of having taken a greater number of prizes 
for stock at the county fair than any other farmer 
of Washington county. He breeds Hambletonian 
horses, Short-horn cattle and Poland China pigs. 
Politically he votes the Republican ticket, but is 
averse to holiling office, although he was induced 
to serve as school director for twelve years. His 
wife is a member of the Baptist Church. Among 
the celebrated men who have visited at his home 
were Gen. Grant and James G. Blaine. 



1/OHN C. McKEAN is a son of Robert McKean, 
whose father, William McKean, was born 
V and reared in Kirkcudbrightshire, Scotland. 
^^ William McKoan received his early education 
in the country schools of his native land, and 
was there married to Mary, daughter of William 
Brown, whose family had been natives of Kirkcud- 
brightshire for over two hundred years. Mr. and 
and Mrs. McKean passed their lives on the home 
farm in Scotland, where the following children 
were born to them and reared: John, a sea captain, 
was lost in a wreck in 1837; Mary, wife of Alex- 
ander Magill; William, a farmer of Mansfield, 
Penn. ; James, a merchant tailor, of Canada Cor- 
ners, Mich.; Joseph, living on the old home place 
in Scotland; Elizabeth, deceased in youth; Andrew, 
living in Scotland; Robert and Samuel, residing 
in Fayette county, Penn. The father was a mem- 
ber of the Established Church of Sootland. 

Robert McKean was born March 7, 1827, on the 
home place in Kirkcudbrightshire, Scotland, and 
in boyhood attended the schools of his native par- 
ish, also assisted in the duties of the farm. On 
January 1, 1849, he married Janet Caird, who was 
born at New Abbey, Scotland, a daughter of James 



Caird, a merchant and native of the same place, 
and a member of the Established Church. The 
children of Mr. and Mrs. Caird were as follows: 
Janet, wife of Robert McKean; John; Barbara, 
wife of Andrew Irving; Agnes, married to a Mr. 
Thompson; James; William; Mary, and two whose 
names are unknown. Mr. and Mrs. McKean resided 
on a farm near New Abbey for about one year after 
their marriage, and then sailed for America. After a 
voyage of thirty days they landed, in July, 1850. in 
New York; thence proceeded to Newburgh, where 
they spent a few months, from there going to Phil- 
adelphia, and then by rail to Johnstown, thence by 
canal to Pittsburgh, finally arriving in Allegheny 
City. In 1851 they moved to a place about six 
miles out, on the Steubenville pike, on Chartiers 
creek, where he followed gardening about six years, 
also working part of the time for 25 cents a day. 
He then passed one year in Mansfield, Penn., and 
was afterward engaged for six years in farming 
and gardening on a place near that town. In 1865 
he purchased and moved upon 220 acres at Lock 
No. 4 (now Charleroi) Washington Co., Perm., 
having paid for this land with the proceeds of 
years of arduous labor. Politically he is actively 
identified with the interests of the Republican 
party, and in religion he and his family are mem- 
bers of the U. P. Church. He gives liberally of 
his means to all worthy enterprises. His children 
have been as follows: James, postmaster at Pitts- 
burgh; William, deceased in youth; John C. ; Will- 
iam; Andrew; Agnes; Robert, and Mary E. , wife of 
Charles Thompson. 

John C. McKean was born October 18, 1854, and 
reared near Mansfield, Penn., and worked on the 
home place during boyhood. He then followed 
farming and gardening for some years, afterward 
purchasing a half interest in a packet running 
from Lock No. 4 to Brownsville. He conducted 
that business about nine months, then resumed the 
occupation of a gardener and fruit raiser, shipping 
his products to Pittsburgh, and successfully con- 
tinued in the work about nine years. On March 
4, 1877, he was united in marriage with Lusettie 
B., daughter of W. P. Spakeman, a resident of 
Pittsburgh, Penn., and she has borne him the fol- 
lowing children: Lillie B., Alice K., Nettie G. , 
Charles S., Mary E. (deceased), and James S. 
Mr. McKean superintended the excavating and 
cementing of the Glass Works plant, his work 
proving eminently satisfactory. In politics he is a 
loyal Republican, and in 1891 he was appointed 
postmaster at Charleroi, receiving his commission 

in 1892. In religion he is a member of the Pres- 
to 

byterian Church. He owns about twenty acres 
of the original plat of Charleroi. Mr. McKean is 
a very popular and useful citizen, actively inter- • 
ested in all public improvements. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



635 



f OHN EEED is one of the oldest citizens of 
West Alexander, and was born August 24, 
t( \ 1815, in East Finley township, this county, 
^^ a son of James Reed, whose father, William 
Reed, was reared in Pennsylvania. When a 
young man William Reed was married to Margaret 
Linu, who lived near Gettysburg, and their chil- 
dren were John, William, David, Andrew, Samuel, 
Ann, Margaret, Jane, Sarah, Elizabeth, Mary and 
James. Mr. Reed came to Washington county in 
the latter part of the eighteenth century, locating 
near the village of Buffalo, on a farm which he 
and his sons improved and cultivated. He was a 
member of the Whig party, and in religion was 
connected with the Presbyterian Church. 

James Reed was born September 28, 1784, near 
Gettysburg, Penn., and was reared in Buffalo 
township, Washington county, whither his parents 
moved when he was a child. In 1812 he was 
married to Sarah, daughter of John Mc Williams, 
an early resident of the county, and soon after 
his marriage Mr. Reed purchased a farm in East 
Finley township, this county, where he made a 
permanent home, and had the following children: 
William, born September 24, 1813; John, subject 
of this sketch; Jane, born July 24, IS ] 7 ; Margaret. 
born July 24, 1820; and Hannah, born March 3, 
1823. Mr. Reed was a successful man, and well 
deserved his prosperity. In politics he was origi- 
nally a Whig, and afterward became a member of 
the Democratic party. He was a member of the 
Upper Ten-Mile Church at Prosperity, of which he 
was an elder. He died February 25, 1845, having 
been preceded by his wife March 14, 1839, and 
both are buried at Prosperity. 

John Reed received his education at the sub- 
scription schools of East Finley township. On 
February 20, 1S44, he was married to Jane, daugh- 
ter of John Burns, a native of West Finley town- 
ship, born June 13, 1799. John Burns was a son 
of Alexander Burns, who was born in 1739, in 
Ireland, and when a young man immigrated to 
America, settling in Washington county, Penn. 
He was united in marriage with Jane Carroll, of 
East Finley township, who bore him children as 
follows: James, born July 21, 1786; Alexander, 
born January 13, 1789; Robert, born March 28, 
1791; Mary, bom October 17, 1793; Nancy, born 
August 28, 1796; John, born June 13, 1799; and 
William, born October 3, 1803. Mr. Burns was a 
soldier in the Indian war, also in the war of 1812, 
and was captured by the Indians. In politics he 
was a Democrat, and in religious views a member 
of the society known as Dissenters. His son, 
John Burns, was married to Martha Carroll, and 
their children were Jane (Mrs. John Reed); Robert 
O, who married Margaretta, a daughter of Rev. 
Mr. Anderson, and by her had two children: one 
that died in infancy, and Mary L., wife of Cyrus 



Craig, of Cambridge, Ohio (Robert C. died at the 
age of twenty-eight years); and Mary (Mrs. Alex- 
ander Gunn). John Burns was a Democrat in 
politics, and in religion a member of and elder in 
the United Presbyterian Church. 

After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. John Reed 
remained on the home place ten years, and then 
moved to Burnsville, West Finley township, where 
they remained fifteen years, thence removing to 
Dallas, W. Va., where they lived two years. Mr. 
and Mrs. Reed have had the following children: 
James Linn, John B. (deceased), Sarah Martha 
(Mrs. William Barry), Robert J. and Mary L. (the 
latter died at the age of three years). Mr. Reed 
has ever been much interested in educational mat- 
ters, and general public topics. In politics he was 
always a Democrat, prior to the year 1885, when 
he became a strong advocate of Prohibition. In 
religious connection he is an elder in, and has for 
forty-five years been a member of the Presbyterian 
Church. 

James Linn Reed, a sou of John Reed, served 
in the war of the Rebellion from March 4, 1865, 
to August 11, same year. He was educated at 
Washington and Jefferson College, and then en- 
tered Princeton College, graduating there in the 
class of 1870, and afterward from the Western 
Theological Seminary. He was called to a church 
in Independence, where he remained eight years; 
then passed one year in Pueblo, Colo. On his re- 
turn home he went to Baruesville, Ohio, and re- 
mained there six years, being finally called to 
Leetsdale, Penn., where he is now living. Polit- 
ically he i&a Republican. 

John B. Reed (deceased), the second son of John 
Reed, received his preparatory training at Waynes- 
burgh, and his college education at Washington 
ami Jefferson. He then attended the Cleveland 
Medical College, and after graduating practiced 
one year in Dallas, W. Va.;then went to Cameron, 
then to West Alexander, and finally settled in 
Wheeling, W. Va., where he died October 17, 1887, 
aged forty-one years. He left a widow (formerly 
Miss Mary L. Stone) and the following children: 
Mary L., Frank S., John B. , Jane B. and Sarah. 
During the Civil war he enlisted in the Sixteenth 
P. V. O, and was sent to the army of the Potomac. 
In his political views he was a Republican. 

Robert J. Reed, third son of John Reed, was 
also educated at Washington and Jefferson Col- 
lege, from which he graduated in 1881, and then 
entered Bellevue Medical College, N. Y. , gradu- 
ating in 1884. He afterward entered the Western 
Pennsylvania Hospital, whence he proceeded to 
Wheeling, W. Va., where he is now practicing his 
profession. On November 30, 1887, he was mar- 
ried to Louise Butler, of Wheeling, W. Va. In 
his political views he is a Republican. In 1874 
Mr. and Mrs. Reed located in West Alexander, 



636 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



where they have a pleasant home. They united 
with the Presbyterian Church there, in which they 
are honored members. 



I Mi RS. MARTHA BAIRD, one of the oldest 
\/A residents of Peters township, is the widow 
\'fi I of Thomas Baird, a son of Samuel Baird. 
-* Samuel Baird was a native of County 
v Antrim, Ireland, and came to America in 

an early day. Soon after his arrival in this coun- 
try he was married to Elizabeth, daughter of James 
Anderson. The Andersons and Bairds had emi- 
grated from Ireland in the same vessel, and settled 
near each other in Peters township, Washington 
Co., Penn. Mrs. Anderson passed away in 1809, 
and as was then customary, was buried on the farm 
in the old orchard, where fifteen years later the 
husband and father was laid to rest. Their graves 
are marked only by a rough stone and a few ever- 
green trees. After their marriage Samuel and' 
Elizabeth Baird located on the farm in Peters 
township, which is now owned by their son Thomas, 
and the following children were born to them: 
Jane, William, James, Samuel, Jonathan and 
Thomas, of whom all are deceased save William, 
who is living in retirement at Sleeth, Carroll Co., 
Iud. 

Thomas Baird was born May 22, 1822, on the 
old place in Peters township, this county, and re- 
mained with his parents during his minority. On 
arriving at man's estate he began life as a pilot, 
and worked as such for many years on the Ohio 
river; be afterward clerked iu the coal yards for 
several years, finally returning to Washington 
county, where he spent the last thirty-five years of 
his life on a farm in Peters township. On October 
7, 1851, he was married to Martha Wilson, who 
was born January 26, 1833, a daughter of the late 
Thomas Wilson, a prominent farmer of Peters 
township, this county. The young couple set- 
tled on the home farm in Peters township, which 
was then owned by a maiden aunt of Mr. Baird. 
He leased the farm for fifteen years, and when 
she died paid off the other heirs. The follow- 
ing children were born to Thomas and Martha 
Baird: Elizabeth, Mary, Jennie (deceased), Wilson 
T., Emma, Caroline, Sarah, John, Frank, Will- 
iam, Charles and George. The family occupy a 
prominent position in the community. Mr. Baird 
enjoyed the highest respect and esteem of all 
who knew him, and was recognized in all his 
dealings as a thoroughly honest and upright citi- 
zen. In politics he was a Democrat, and served 
in many local offices. He was a member and 
treasurer of the Presbyterian Church for many 
years. He died February 4, 1888, of pneumonia. 
His widow is yet living on the old homestead, 
which contains 140 acres of well cultivated land. 



THOMAS STEVENSON, who in his day was 
one of the prominent and progressive agri- 
culturists of Washington county, was born 
June 30, 17'. in. in Northampton county, 
Penn., on the old home farm near Easton. 
James Stevenson, his father, was a native of the 
North of Ireland, where he married Ann Miller, 
and soon thereafter they immigrated to America, 
and about the year 1786 settled near Ea*ton, 
Northampton Co., Penn, where they resided till 
1800. They then crossed the mountains, all their 
worldly possessions, comprising household goods, 
their little ones and themselves, being carried in 
one wagon. Coming to Washington county, they 
located near Hickory, Mt. Pleasant township, and 
there resided till 1808, when they moved to the 
southeastern part of Smith township. Iu 1809 
James Stevenson made a permanent home on a 
farm situated one mile north of Bulger, in Smith 
township. He was an honest, energetic citizen, 
was a successful farmer, and carried on a very ex- 
tensive distillery. In politics he was an active 
member of the Whig party. He and his wife passed 
away at a good old age, and were the parents of 
the following: John (born about the year 1786, 
died about 1860, having lived up to the time of his 
death on the farm where John C. Stevenson now 
resides; he was a soldier in the war of 1812), 
Thomas, Margaret (who married Finley Scott), 
Jane and Mrs. Smith, all now deceased. 

Thomas Stevenson, the subject proper of (his 
memoir, came with his parents to Washington 
county when a boy, and here received his educa- 
tion in the schools of the period, where the " Single 
Rule of Three" was the test of mathematical 
knowledge. He hauled loads of produce to Pitts- 
burgh, returning with merchandise for country 
merchants. On February 28, 1827, he was mar- 
ried to Eliza Kerr, who was born November 1 •'>. 1 8( 16, 
daughter of William and Eleanor Kerr. This wife 
died March 4, 1849, and on September 28, 1852, 
Mr. Stevenson married Margaret A. Whan, who 
was born February 15, L824, daughter of John and 
Mary (Stevenson) Whan, and their children were: 
Mary Margaret (wife of David McCoy, of Baca 
county, Colo), born October 17, 1853; Ann Eliza 
(living in Burgettstown, Penn., with her widowed 
mother), born March 22, 1855; Celicia J. (living 
at home), born January 28, 1857; John C. , James 
M., and William E. (of whom special mention is 
made further on); and David S. K., born December 
29, 1865. Mr. and Mrs. Stevenson passed all of 
their married life on a part of the " Old Ravens 
craft Tract," in Cherry Valley, Smith township. 
He was a careful manager and excellent financier, 
year by year adding to his possessions until he 
owned 750 acres of choice land. He was a kind- 
hearted, generous man, ever ready to assist those 
who proved worthy of aid; in business he was a 




n^ad/ 



&>c£i/-frri^irt<^ 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



639 



careful manager. At one time be owned a flour- 
mill in Midway, Penn., but passed most of his time 
in agriculture. In politics he was first a Whig, 
then a Republican, and was much interested in the 
selection of suitable candidates. He was a charter 
member of the Mt. Vernon Seceder Church, and 
was one of the leading organizers of the Centre 
U. P. Church, serving as an elder and contributing 
liberally to its support. He died February 28, 
1881, mourned by the entire community as one who 
could not well be replaced. His widow continued 
to reside in the elegant home left to her until 1892, 
when she moved to Burgettstown, this county, and 
is now living a retired life. She is one of the most 
highly respected ladies of the vicinity, and is a 
consistent member of the U. P. Church. 

John C. Stevenson was born August 4, 1858, 
in Cherry Valley, Smith township, this county. 
He received a limited education in the district 
schools, and being the eldest son, the greater 
portion of the farm work fell to his share. On 
February 12, L880, he was united in marriage 
with Eliza J. Stewart, who was born September 27. 
1855, daughter of John Stewart. Three daughters 
have been born to this marriage: Maggie T., Elvia 
May and Cora Viola. After their marriage John 
C. and Eliza J. (Stewart) Stevenson settled on the 
home farm one mile north of Bulger, which has 
been in the possession of the family since 1809. 
He has followed farming and stock raising, also 
devoted some attention to the dairy business. In 
politics he is a Democrat, and has held various 
township offices; in religion he and his wife are 
members of the United Presbyterian Church at 
Midway, this county. 

James M. and William E. Stevenson were born 
on the home farm in Smith township, September 
28, 1860, and August 13, 1863, respectively. 
Their literary education was received at the com- 
mon schools of the neighborhood,- during which 
time they were also learning valuable lessons in 
the principles of successful agriculture and general 
business. After the death of their father the two 
brothers took charge of the home place, and in 
September, 1883, John C. sold his iuterest in cattle 
to James M. and William E., who then began an 
extensive business in the breeding of Holstein- 
Friesau cattle. Their first stock was purchased 
from J. L. Henderson, of Washington county, and 
Powell Bros., of Springboro, Penn. Their stock 
soon increased in quantity and value, and was ex- 
hibited at various agricultural shows throughout 
the country — Detroit, Chicago, Toledo. Columbus, 
Youngstown (Ohio), Wheeling (W. Va.) and sev- 
eral other places, and they received a large 
number of premiums as testimonials of their supe- 
rior grade of cattle. Many gold and silver med- 
als were awarded them at the various exhibitions, 
from which they always took some premium. These 

31 



two young men won a national reputation as stock 
raisers, and command the very highest prices. In 
1892 they disposed of their farming implements 
and stock, making one of the largest sales ever 
held in Smith township. Politically the Messrs. 
Stevenson are earnest, active members of the Re- 
publican party and, it is needless to add, are most 
intelligent, practical and successful business men. 
Neither are married. 




NDREW CRAWFORD is prominently iden- 
tified with the oldest and most influential 
citizens of Peters township. His graudfa- 
-* ther, Andrew Crawford, issupposed to have 
emigrated from Ireland. However that 
may be, it is certain that this ancestor came to 
Washington county, Penn., prior to 1783, and lo- 
cated on the farm in North Strabane township yet 
owned by his descendants. In the same year he 
received a patent for 415| acres of land, giving 
in payment .£1, Us. 2d. of Pennsylvania currency. 
In early life he was united in marriage with Sarah 
Speer, a native of Moon township, Allegheny Co., 
Penn. Their lives were passed on the farm in 
North Strabane township, where he died in 1795 
from the effects of the bite of a copperhead snake. 
The children of this family were born as follows: 
Elizabeth, Mary, Margaret. James, Alexander and 
Ann. all of whom are now deceased. 

James Crawford was born in 1791, on the old 
homestead in North Strabane township, and was 
but four years old when his father died. His 
mother married again, and the child was thrown 
on his own resources at a tender age, as the step- 
father had no property. However, he possessed 
plenty of perseverance, and worked for some time 
as a farm hand, meantime availing himself of every 
opportunity to secure an education. He then be- 
gan teaching school, and in 1812 went to stay with 
his sister in Columbiana county, Ohio, while her 
husband fought in the war of 1812. While mak- 
ing his home here, young Crawford met Miss Nancy 
Crawford, who afterward shared his life (she was 
no relation). They were married in 1814, after 
which the young couple moved to the old place in 
North Strabane township, Washington Co., Penn., 
where they always resided. Their farm contained 
over 200 acres of the original tract. In political 
opinion James Crawford was a Democrat,and served 
in many township offices. For thirty years he was 
identified with the United Presbyterian Church at 
Peters Creek, in which he was an elder, and after- 
ward became a memberof Mount Prospect Church. 
The following children were born to this couple: 
Sarah, Andrew, William (deceased in infancy), Ta- 
mar, Mary A., Agnes, Margaret (wife of A. M. 
Borland), Lizzie and Priscilla. Of these, Tamar, 
Mary A., Agnes, Sarah and Priscilla are deceased. 



640 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Andrew Crawford, son of James and Nancy Craw- 
ford, was born December 4, 1816, in the old house 
on the farm of his forefathers in North Strabane 
township, Washington county. He remained on the 
place during his boyhood, and on April 5, 1838, was 
married to Martha, daughter of James Matthews. 
She was born in October, 1814, on a farm in Peters 
township adjoining the home of her future hus- 
band. After their marriage the young couple in- 
licrited-seventy-five acres of the old place, where 
they have since resided. Children have blessed 
their union as follows: Martha J., Mary J., Al- 
exander J., Nancy E., Tamar T., W. B. L., Sarah, 
Henrietta and Anna G., of whom Martha J., Nancy 
E. and Tamar T. are deceased. The father votes 
with the Democratic party, and has held various 
local offices. He was an elder in the United Pres- 
byterian Church of Peters Creek until his member- 
ship was transferred to Mt. Prospect; he also led 
the choir for many years. 

James Alexander Crawford, eldest son of An- 
drew and Martha (Matthews) Crawford, was born 
May 6, 184'.!, and on December 21, 1865, was mar- 
ried by Rev. William Hanna, of the Presbyterian 
('lunch of Fairview, to Rhoda J., daughter of 
James Atkinson. Mr. and Mrs. Crawford have 
had the following children : Nettie B. , William C. , 
Mattie, James P., Edmund A., Caroline, Wal- 
lace, May, Harry, Lulu and Laura. Of this 
family Caroline, Wallace and Laura are now 
deceased. Mr. Crawford is at present living in 
McCook, Neb., where he has bought a farm of 160 
acres, aud expects to make his future home. 



J (AMES MORRISON, who is a grandson of 
Henry Morrison, was born May 14, 1833, in 
J Nottingham township, this county. The 
grandfather was a lieutenant in the Revolu- 
tionary war, and in 1773 came to this county, and 
bought 438 acres of land on Mingo creek, where 
In' died at the age of eighty-two years, leaving 
three sons, John, James and Henry. 

Henry Morrison, sou of Henry Morrison, Sr. , 
was born October 2, 1799, in Nottingham town- 
ship, this couuty, and was married to Anna Stew- 
art, who was born October 14, 1794, in this county. 
Five children were born to their marriage, namely: 
William, born December 18, 1820, died February 
2d. 1843; Patience (Mrs. Hamilton), born April 
30, lS2:i; Henry, born August 13, 1827; John, 
born May 2:'), 1830, died January 6, 1836; and 
James, «>f wliom a sketch follows. The father 
owned 152 acres of land, and passed his life in 
agricultural pursuits, serving the township in va- 
rious capacities. He died October 7, 1884, having 
been preceded by the mother December 25, 1877. 

James Morrison was born on the old place in 
this county, and there passed his school days. On 



May 7, 1861, he was united in marriage with Sarah 
J., daughter of John Gaston, a native of Alle- 
gheny county, Penn. They have had three children, 
namely: H. P., A. L. and H. M. The family 
moved to Washington, Penn., in 1872, remain- 
ing there until 1877, when they returned to the 
farm in Nottingham township. Mr. Morrison has 
served as inspector of elections on several occa- 
sions, and in religion the family are all members 
of the Presbyterian Church. 



H( ENRY HARRISON HARFORD WEAV- 
ER. The Weaver family, with which this 
gentleman is connected, is of German an- 
- 1 cestry, and the earliest pioneer of the name 
to settle in America was one Adam Weaver. 
He and his son John located in Washington coun- 
ty, Penn., where the latter purchased 400 acres of 
land one mile north of Fredericktown, on Fish Pot 
run, in East Bethlehem township. John Weaver 
received a limited education, but gained a large 
fund of general information, becoming a very in- 
telligent citizen. In 1788 he was married to Cath- 
arine, daughter of Martin Spoone, and the follow- 
ing children were born to them: Adam, who died 
in 1860; Sarah, wife of Jonathan Michener, of 
Seneca county, Ohio (she is now over ninety 
years of age); Jacob; Martin, a farmer of Seneca 
county, Ohio; Daniel; Mrs. Elizabeth Ault, who 
resided at Orville, Wayne Co., Ohio; Mrs. Cath- 
erine Huffman; Mrs. Mary Smith; John; Jos- 
eph, deceased in 1890, and Margaret. Of this 
family are yet living Sarah, Martin and Marga- 
ret. The parents died on the home farm in East 
Bethlehem township. 

John Weaver, son of John and Catharine Weav- 
er, was born August 17, 1799, in East Bethlehem 
township, Washington Co., Penn. He attended 
the rude log cabin schools, and assisted his father 
in the farm work, using the old-fashioned wooden 
plow. Their bread was then made entirely from 
corn, and though whisky was freely used in those 
days, drunken men were comparatively few. John 
Weaver learned the tanner's trade at Scenery Hill, 
Washington county, with a man named Notestine. 
On March 21, 1822, he was united in marriage 
with Ann Schoolly, and they had children who 
were born as follows: William, born December 8, 
1822, a merchant of San Francisco; Eli, born 
April 10, 1824, supposed to have been drowned 
in North River, Cal. : Mrs. Elizabeth Messmore, 
born April 22, 1826, died November 28, 1878, in 
Illinois; Thomas, born October 17, 1828, died 
September 10, 1888, in San Francisco, Cal. ; John, 
deceased in infancy; E. P. , a miner in Montana, 
born April 7, 1833, and Isaac, born September '.• 
1835, who enlisted in the Eighth Illinois Calvary, ■ 
and died in the army. The mother of this fauiilv 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



641 



was laid to rest December 23, 1S35, and the father 
then married Mrs. Jane (Woods) Boon ( widow of 
James Boon), who was born June 24, 1809, in 
Washington county, Penn., near the Virginia line. 
To this marriage came the following children: 
Fiuley, born February 16, 1838, living in Waynes- 
burgh, Greene Co. , Penn.; Henry Harrison Har- 
ford, born September 3, 1840; Margaret Jane, 
born January 12, 1843, wife of John Carpenter, 
of Seneca county, Ohio; Joseph and Mary N. 
(twins), born August 9, 1845, the former of whom 
died October 1, 1854, while the latter is living 
with her brother Henry; Eleanor S., born June 20, 
1848, widow of Alonzo B. Crumrine, living in 
Waynesburgh, Greene Co., Penn., and Florence 
C, born April 3, 1851, who died September 30, 
1854, at the age of three years, one day before the 
death of her brother Joseph. The father was a 
very industrious man, having won success by years 
of patient toil, and in 1842 erected the house now 
occupied by his son. He was called from earth 
June 24, 1876, and was followed by his wife Decem- 
ber 29, 1888. He was a member and elder of the 
Cumberland Presbyterian Church, and in politics 
formerly voted with the Whig party, afterward 
uniting with the Republicans. 

Henry Harrison Harford Weaver is now resid- 
ing on the farm where he was born and reared, in 
East Bethlehem township, Washington Co., Penn. 
He learned the tannery business of his father, 
which he followed several years, and then con- 
ducted a store in Fredericktown fifteen years. Af- 
ter leaving the latter business he returned to the 
homestead, and is now a prosperous agriculturist. 
He is one of the most zealous adherents of the Re- 
publican party, and has voted for every nominee 
of his party since casting his first ballot for Lin- 
colu. In religion he is a member of the Presby- 
terian Church. 



1772, 
Penn., 



August 5, 1803, a daughter of Calvin Day. They 
resided in Greene county until their death, Jesse 
passingaway August 17,l880,and his wife June 29, 
1878. They reared a family of six children: Cyrus, 
born July 20, 1826 (deceased); Harvey, born April 
13,1828; Milton, born January 26, 1830 (now a resi- 
dent of Iowa); Samuel, born September 23, 1835 
(deceased); Adeline, born November 22,1839 (de- 
ceased); John N., born January 31, 1842 (living in 
Van Buren, Franklin township). 

Harvey Andrew remained with his father upon 
the farm until thirty years of age, when he mar- 
ried Adaline Craig, who was born June 4, 1832, a 
daughter of M. B. Craig, of Franklin township, 
Washington county. After his marriage he re- 
sided on his father's farm in Greene county, until 
the winter of 1862-63, when he removed to his 
present farm in Morris township, four miles west 
of Prosperity, known as the "Old Post farm," 
which is an excellent one, and consists of about 
200 acres. To Mr. and Mrs. Andrew have been 
born five children: Charles Hollace, born Novem- 
ber 5, 1858, in Greene county (he married Matilda 
Bell, of East Finley township, who died May 22, 
1888, aged thirty-three years, and he afterward 
married Mary, daughter of Harvey Day, of Greene 
county; he now resides on the old home place in 
Greene county); Lecta Jane, born March 27, 1864, 
married to James Sharp, of Prosperity, where they 
now reside: the other three children, Jesse B. , born 
December 2, 1860, in Greene county, William 
Harvey, born September 17, 1868, and Sarah A., 
born May 29, 1871, make their home with their 
parents. Mr. Andrew is a Democrat, and a mem- 
ber of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, of 
which he was an elder. 



It I ARVEY ANDREW, a representative of an 
ILarl old pioneer family, and a flourishing farmer 
of Morris township, is a son of Jesse An- 
Jj - drew, and grandson of Samuel Andrew, 
who was born in New Jersey, January 25, 
and located on Ruff's creek, Greene Co., 
at an early day, where he entered land. 
He married Susan Cooper, of Washington county, 
born July 22, 1777, and reared a family of eight 
children, as follows: Jacob, Zebulon, Samuel, 
Jesse, Robert, Kersier, Elizabeth and Emeline, of 
whom Elizabeth, a resident of Iowa, is the only 
survivor. Samuel Andrew removed to Crawford 
county, Ohio, all the family except Jesse accom- 
panying him, and there died August 28, 1S49, his 
wife having passed away August 27, 1843. 

Jesse Andrew was born March 15, 1804, and 
October 20, 1825, married Lecta Day, who was born 



d(AMES T. HEMPHILL. Among the pros- 
j perous and energetic citizens of West Mid- 
| dletown, Penn., this gentleman occupies a 
position of deserved prominence. His an- 
cestors were natives of Old Erin, but left their 
island home in an early day to seek a home in the 
"land of the free and the home of the brave." 
The earliest pioneer of this well-known family was 
one John Hemphill, who was born in County 
Down, Ireland, and married Mary Brooks, a native 
of the same county. The following children were 
born to this union: Thomas, Nancy (Mrs. Jesse 
Merrill), Mary (wife of William McGuffie), John, 
Margaret, Elizabeth, David and Jane. In 1791 
the family immigrated to America, first settling 
in Winchester, Va. , and some years later moved to 
West Finley township, Washington county, Penn. 
A short time afterward they settled permanently 
near West Alexander, Donegal township, this 
county, with the exception of a few years passed 
in West Virginia. In politics Mr. Hemphill was a 



642 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Democrat, and in religious faith a member of the 
Associate Reformed Church. 

Thomas Hemphill was born in 1789, in County 
Down, Ireland, his parents bringing him to America 
when but two years of age. His youth was passed 
in Winchester, Va. , and Washington county, Penn., 
where his education was received. In early man- 
hood he was married to Delilah, daughterof James 
Tearney, of Fayette county, Penn., aud the young 
people first settled in Fayette county, Penn., 
thence moving to Steubenville, Ohio, where 
they remained several years, and finally re- 
turning to Washington county, Penn. Mr. 
Hemphill followed the cooper's trade, which 
he learned in youth. His children were as 
follows: Mary (wife of John Johnson), Sarah (Mrs. 
John Sharp), David (deceased), John, J. T., Mar- 
garet (Mrs. Thomas Patterson), Nancy (wife of 
Robert C. Stewart) and Elizabeth (married to Hol- 
liday Sharp). The father never became a natural- 
ized citizen, but took an active interest in the 
Democratic party, and in religion was a member 
of the Disciple Church. He died in 1851, being 
followed in 1875 by his wife. Both are buried in 
the Grove cemetery, of West Middletown, Penn. 

James T. Hemphill was born February 11, 1819, 
in Donegal township, this county, and passed his 
youth on the home farm, receiving a subscription- 
school education. On November 12, 1850, he was 
united in marriage with Saria, daughter of James 
Murdock, and she has borne him the following 
children: Anna (wife of Samuel C. Maxwell), 
Martha V., Joseph T., Milton M., Jennie (wife of 
Rev. John B. Jamison). Lucy, J. E. B. and Nel- 
lie (deceased). Mr. and Mrs. Hemphill resided in 
Hopewell township for four years after their mar- 
riage; he then conducted a milling business in 
Independence township, this county, for sis years, 
and afterward moved to the home farm of the 
Murdock family. He then resided six years in 
Donegal township, and returning to Independence 
township purchased the old Johnstown farm. 
From there he removed to Washington borough, 
finally settling at his present home in West Mid- 
dletown. Hopewell township. Politically Mr. 
Hemphill has been an active member of the Whig 
party, and is now a Republican. In 1885 he was 
elected county sheriff, giving satisfaction to all his 
constituents. He and his family are member-- of 
the United Presbyterian Church at Mount Hope, 
this county. 



by every true American, leaving four children to 
perpetuate her memory. Mr. Carlile owned iron 
furnaces and about 600 acres of land inNew Jersey, 
and was a prosperous business man. 

John Carlile, father of subject, was born in 17S7, 
in New Jersey, and moving to Pennsylvania in 1820, 
located near Lone Pine, Amwell township. Wash- 
ington county. He was engaged in tanning several 
years, then began to farm, in which he continued 
the remainder of his life. On May 2, 1822, he was 
united in marriage with Elizabeth Curry, who bore 
him six children, viz.: Mary (Mrs. Camp), Mar- 
garet (Mrs. Onstott), Sarah jane (Mrs. Prall |, Will- 
iam, Eliza (Mrs. Keeney) and John S. Mr. Car- 
lile was first a W T hig, and afterward united with 
the Republican party on its formation. He died 
in 1861, in his seventy-fifth year, followed by Mrs. 
Carlile in 1864. 

John S. Carlile was born November 3, 1838, on 
the old Hatfield farm in Amwell township, and re- 
mained at home until 1864, in which year his 
mother died. He was educated at the common 
schools, and at Pleasant Valley Academy. When 
yet a boy he learned the carpenter's trade, ser\ing 
a regular apprenticeship of three years with a M\ . 
Keeney, and has ever since followed that business, 
being constantly engaged in contracting and build 
ing. On March 8, 1866, our subject was married 
to Rebecca Ann Potts, of Beaver county, Penn., 
and the children born to them were: G. Lawrence, 
Elfonsine, William, O. Curtis, Harry (deceased) 
and Alvin (deceased). Mr. Carlile has always been 
one of the most earnest and influential Republicans 
in his township. He was enumerator of the First 
Precinct of Amwell township for the eleventh cen- 
sus, and, with the exception of three years, has been 
a member of the election board for twenty years. 



JOHN S. CARLILE is a grandson of Robert 
and Mollie Carlile, natives of New Jersey. 
Mrs. Mollie Carlile was the famous Mollie 
Stark, of Revolutionary fame, and a daugh- 
ter of the gallant Gen. John Stark. She died 
in 1858, in her ninety-sixth year, loved and honored 



n M ATTHEW McCONAUGHY, a well-known 
IV/I citizen of McDonald, Washington county, 

I "/J i is a grandson of David McConaughy, 

II - 1 who was born and reared in County 
v Antrim, Ireland, and there married to 
a Miss Glissen. They came to America in 
the latter part of the eighteenth century, and 
made their first settlement in Chester county, 
Penn. In 1804 they moved by wagons across the 
mountains to Washington county, settling on a 
wild farm of 180 acres, part of the George Wash 
ington tract. Mr. McConaughy was a mason by 
trade, and in 1812 built a stone house on the 
place, afterward following his vocation in this 
this county. He and his wife reared the following 
children: John, David, Elizabeth and Alexander. 
In politics the father was a Whig, and in religion 
a member of the first Seceder Church organized in 
Hickory, this county. 

Alexander McConaughy, father of subject, was 



__ 











■ ■ 



ayri 



&6^ (ZSW r ~£ '^n^yu^^^ 



/ . 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



645 



born in 1799 in Chester county, Penn., and passed 
bis early life in Chester and Washington counties, 
receiving a liberal subscription-school education. 
On April 19, 1832, he married Martha, daughter of 
Matthew Murdock, who was born in Lancaster 
county, Penn., and was there married to Mary 
McElravy; they resided in Mercer county, Penn., 
for several years after their marriage, and then 
came to Washington county, where children were 
born to them as follows: Sarah, Kobert, Ann, 
Elizabeth, David, Martha, Rebecca, Jane, Nancy 
and Mary. Politically Mr. McElravy was a Whig, 
in religion a member of the Associate Reformed 
Church. 

Alexander and Martha McConaughy made a 
permanent settlement on the home place in Wash- 
ington county. Their children were David, Mat- 
thew, Mary A., Elizabeth, John, Alexander and 
Sarah J., three of whom are yet living — Matthew, 
Elizabeth (Mrs. Robert T. McKibben) and Sarah 
J. Mr. McConaughy was a farmer and stock 
raiser, and in politics was formerly a Whig, then a 
Republican. He was first a member of the 
Seceder Church and then of the United Presby- 
terian Church. He died in 187(1. 

Matthew McConaughy (the subject proper of 
this sketch) was bom May 21, 1834. He is a 
representative citizen and an earnest supporter of 
church work. Politically he is a Republican, and 
in church connection is a member and trustee of the 
United Presbyterian Church of McDonald. 



/ 



/HOMAS H. LYON, a well-known citizen of 
North Strabane township, and one of her 
many prosperous agriculturists, was born 
September 4, 1819, in Greene county, 
Penn., a son of William and Elizabeth 
(Hathaway) Lyon, the latter of whom was a resident 
of ( ireene county. Benjamin Lyon, our subject's 
paternal grandfather, was a native of New Jersey, 
in which State the family had resided many years. 
He married Miss Wilcox, a lady of English de- 
scent, and seven children came to bless their union, 
viz. : Noah, Elizabeth, Peter, Joanna, Sarah, Will- 
iam and Matthias. Benjamin Lyon and his wife 
came to Washington county, and were among the 
earliest settlers, making their first home in Notting- 
ham township, owing to the hostile incursions of the 
Indians. Here, surrounded by such dangers, and 
experiencing the many hardships incident to pio- 
neer life, did the family clear up their primitive 
home, the father, in addition to clearing the land 
and farming, following his trade of carpenter and 
builder. Many of the dwellings and barns in his 
vicinity were of his building, and some of them 
are still standing. " After his family had grown up 
Mr. Lyon moved to Greene county, where he 
erected a fulling-mill, which he conducted for some 



years, and here he and his wife died and were 
buried. They were members of the Baptist Church , 
of which he was one of the organizers in his sec- 
tion, and in which he held various offices. A 
Democrat " to the back-bone," he was a recognized 
leader in the party. During the Revolutionary 
war he served several years under Washington, 
and experienced many hardships. 

William Lyon, father of subject, was born in 
Nottingham township, Washington Co., Penn., 
his education, which was somewhat meager, being 
received at the subscription schools of the locality 
of his birth. He was married to Elizabeth Hath- 
away, and the children born to them were as fol- 
lows: Morgan, Thomas H. , Harrison, Jackson and 
Louisa (wife of David Horner), Perren, William S. 
After some years' residence in Greene county, Will- 
iam Lyon moved to Washington county, where he 
owned Lindley's Mill and 160 acres of land. He 
was the chief instrument in having Lindley's 
Mills postoffice established. He moved to Indiana, 
where he remained two years, and then, on account 
of sickness, returned to Pennsylvania, where he 
and his wife passed their last (lays, dying at the 
residence of our subject, who with true filial devo- 
tion cared for them, and comforted them in their 
declining years. Mr. Lyon died in 1844, aged 
forty-nine years, his wife at the age of sixty-two 
years. They were members of the Baptist Church, 
ami Mr. Lyon was an old- school Democrat. 

Thomas H. Lyon was reared and educated in 
Greene county, Penn., until twelve years old, when 
he learned the trade of a carpenter, which he com- 
menced to work at regularly at the age of eighteen 
years, following the same until middle life, when 
he laid away the chisel and the plane for the plow 
and the harrow. He was a most industrious man, 
many times working half the night and all day, 
even occasionaly, when things were pressing, spend- 
ing an entire night at his bench. He is well known 
in his section as a man of the strictest integrity, 
and unquestionable veracity. He has always been 
a firm Democrat, and has rendered efficient service 
to his party without being an office-seeker, but was 
township election judge and township clerk twenty 
years. In 1862 he was appointed postmaster at 
Beck's Mills, which office he held over thirty years, 
and which he resigned in IMM. He is an attend- 
ant of the Presbyterian Church, and has been a 
trustee of the same several years. He is a strict 
Prohibitionist, believing intemperance the greatest 
of curses. On March 7, 1844, Mr. Lyon was united 
in marriage with Jane, daughter of John McMillan, 
of North Strabane township, and their children 
were as follows: William, an extensive lumber 
dealer at Burlington, Iowa, and John, who died in 
childhood. Mrs. Lyon died September 24, 1850, 
and on February 26, 1852, Mr. Lyon married Lydia, 
daughter of John Cheeseman, one of the farmers of 



646 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Peters township, and the children born to them 
were: George, Frank, Mary B., Lizzie and Warren. 
After the death of his second wife, April 5, 1S68, 
our subject married, on February 28, 1871, Martha, 
daughter of Joseph Horner, of North Strabane 
township. She died November 25, 1872, and Mr. 
Lyon on May 24, 1877, married Margaret, daughter 
of Colbert Manes. Of the last two marriages no 
children were born. Mr. Lyon ranks among the 
leading citizens of his county. 




1( LEXANDER G. PATTERSON, than whom 
l\ there is no more prominent, better- known 
4\ or more highly- respected citizen in West 
Finley township, is a native of this county, 
born in Donegal township in 1819. His 
father, William Patterson, a native of Ireland, 
came to America when twenty-one years of age, 
and settled on the farm whereon our subject now 
resides. He married Miss Nancy Gordon, a native 
of Washington county, daughter of Alexander 
Gordon, whose birthplace was in the land of Scott 
and Burns. To this union eight children were 
born, as follows: Grace, wife of James Moss; 
Eleanor, who died unmarried at the age of sixty; 
Alexander G. ; Jane, wife of Braddock Dinsmore, 
at present residing in Missouri; Samuel, unmarried 
(since the death of his sister Nancy he travels the 
greater part of his time); Catherine, deceased in 
her girlhood; Nancy, deceased at the age of fifty- 
six, unmarried, and William, died when twelve 
years old. 

Alexander G. Patterson received his education 
at the subscription schools of the locality of his 
birth, and received on his father's farm a thorough 
practical training in the art of agriculture. When 
Alexander was twelve years of age his father died, 
leaving a large family of children to be cared for 
by their widowed mother, and much of the work 
fell upon our subject, whose willing hands did not 
a little toward the support of his mother and little 
brothers and sisters. The habits of economy and 
industry thus early acquired soon became a second 
nature to him, and were regarded as characteristic 
of him by his many friends of later life, by whom 
he was held in high esteem. 

Mr. Patterson was married in 1854 to Nancy J. 
Nicksou, who was born in Washington, Penn., in 
1828, a daughter of William and Mary (Linga- 
felter) Nicksou, of Washington county, Penn., and 
two children have been born to their union, viz. : 
William, born in 1859, married Stella Armstrong, 
and they have one child named Wray Grayson ; and 
Catherine, who married Milton Armstrong, and had 
five children: Maude Ethel, born in 1881; Grace 
Gordon, born in 1883; Frank Patterson, born in 
1886 (whodied at the age of five years); Mary Irene, 
born in 1888; and Blanche Lenore, born in 1891. 



Mr. Patterson has lived upon the same place for 
seventy- four years, and has had a most successful 
career, having, from almost nothing at the start, 
accumulated, by industry and judicious economy, 
a considerable amount of valuable property, which 
is still left him, after giving both his children a 
handsome "send off" in life. In his political 
preferences Mr. Patterson is a Republican, but is 
not an active party man. In religious faith the 
Pattersons are Presbyterians. 



THOMAS WARRELL BROCKMAN, an en- 
terprising young business man of Morris 
township, was born January 19, 1863, a son 
of N. B. Brockman. N. B. Brockman was 
born of Scotch parents in Claysville, Wash 
ington county, and married Elizabeth Warrell, a 
daughter of Thomas Warrell, of whom' subsequent 
mention is made. Thomas Warrell Brockman, 
when a small boy, whs taken in charge by his 
grandfather Warrell, with whom he made his home 
until he had attained his majority. Shortly after 
this he married Lizzie McMillan, a daughter of 
John McMillan, of Morris township. Eor five 
years after his marriage Mr. Brockman managed 
the Warrel farm, one-half mile west of Prosperity, 
which he now owns, and on which he resides. In 
1889 he opened a furniture and undertaking busi- 
ness in Prosperity, the undertaking department of 
which he still conducts on quite an extensive 
scale, though the furniture department was dropped 
in 1891. Mr. Brockman is also dealing in real es- 
tate in Pittsburgh, Penn. He is one of those 
genial gentlemen who always look on the bright 
side of life, and his friends are numerous. In pol- 
itics he adheres to the principles of the Republican 
party, though he is not a partisan. 

Mr. and Mrs. Brockman are among those who 
believe in enjoying life, and devote considerable 
time to travel. During the oppressive summer 
months of each year they spend the time at some 
watering place, having in the summer of 1891 
made an extensive trip up the great lakes. They 
are the parents of three children: Sarah, born in 
May, 1887; Margaret, born in October, 1889, and 
Mabel, born in February, 1892. 

Mrs. Priscilla Warrell, widow of Thomas War- 
rell (mentioned above), is the daughter of Luther 
Day, who was born in 1792, in New Jersey, and 
came to Washington county with his mother, 
Bethany Day, in the latter part of the eighteenth 
century, locating in Morris township. He married 
Mary Van Kirk, a daughter of William Van Kirk, 
of Washington county, and to their union eight 
children were born: William V- (deceased); Dan- 
iel, a resident of Morris township; Arvida, also a 
resident of Morris township; Thomas W. , who. 
died when young; Priscilla; Lavina (deceased); 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



647 



Maria aud Artemus. Luther Day died in 1880, 
bis wife having preceded him to the grave in 1849. 
Priscilla Day was married iu 1842 to B. F. Mc- 
Vay, to which union four children were born: 
Demas Lindley, of Morris township; Elmas D. 
(deceased); Samuel Bayard, of Morris township, 
and Wallace (deceased). Mr. McVay died iu 1853 
and in 1869 Mrs. McVay married Thomas Warrell, 
a native of Ireland, who emigrated to Washington 
county in 1824, locating on the farm now owned 
by his widow, where he died July 23, 1889. Mrs. 
Warrell is an amiable Christian lady, revered by 
all who know her. 



ONIAS MONINGER, one of the prominent 
citizens of Amwell township, was born 
/ August 24, 1837, on the old home farm in 
Amwell township, and, with the exception 
of two years, has always lived on the place of his 
birth. He is of German ancestry, his grandfather, 
John Moninger, having emigrated with his family 
from Germany to Hagerstown, Md., in 1801, and 
thence journeying to Washington county, located 
on the farm which is now occupied by Onias Mon- 
inger. He was a farmer and carpenter, and fol- 
lowed both vocations very successfully all his life, 
having a good farm of 130 acres. In politics he 
was a Whig, and among the first to organize and 
promote the caiise of that party iu Washington 
county. His children were Henry M., George, 
John, Jacob, Mrs. Mary Harshaman, Mrs. Cath- 
erine Harshaman and Mrs. Elizabeth Moore. 

John Moninger was born March 27, 1791, iu 
Germany, and when nine years of age immigrated 
with his parents to America. His youth was passed 
in attending the rate schools, and assisting in farm 
duties. He was a soldier in the war of 1812. On 
September 28, 1814, he was united in marriage with 
Catherine Dague, and to them were born eight 
children: John Michael (deceased), Mrs. A. S. 
Frazee, George W. , Mary Garber (deceased), Mrs. 
Catherine Riggle, Mrs. D. L. Reynolds, Demas M. 
and Onias. Mr. Moninger passed his life in agri- 
cultural duties, and owned a farm of 186 acres. He 
was very successful, and managed a considerable 
amount of business in settling estates. Politically 
he was a Republican, aud in religion was a mem- 
ber of the Disciple Church. He died in 1872, in 
his eighty-second year, and his faithful wife sur- 
vived him but four years. 

Onias Moninger received his earlier education at 
the common schools, and afterward attended 
Pleasant "Valley Academy five terms. He began 
teaching school at the age of twenty -one, and 
taught four winters in District No. 2, Amwell 
township. On June 24, 1865, he was united in 
marriage with Emily A. Leyde, of Ohio, and their 



union has been blessed with five children: Mary 
Florence, Netta C, John Wildon, Henry Herbert 
and Olive Leyde. Mr. Moninger is an active worker 
in the ranks of the Republican party, and is al- 
ways interested in local matters. He has served 
as assessor and clerk, and is now assistant assessor; 
all being positions requiring a man of good judg- 
ment and energy to acceptably fill, which Mr. 
Moninger has done. In 1890 a well was drilled 
on the farm, which proved to be a light gasser 
(about 300 pounds pressure), which he now has full 
control of, as he purchased the entire well, and is 
using it all through the house for both heat and 
light. 



Mi 



ATHIAS MOUNTS, a prominent and pros- 
perous agriculturist of Franklin township, 
was born in Cecil township, Washington 
^ Co., Penn., February 15, 1821. 
/ His grandfather, John Mounts, had the 

following named family of children: Richard, 
John, Mathias, Enoch and William. The family 
came from Maryland to Pennsylvania about 1785, 
settling in the town of Washington, this county, 
where they passed the remainder of their lives. 

William Mounts, father of our subject, was born 
in Washington county, Penn., in 1777; was educat- 
ed in the subscription schools of those early days, 
and was brought up to farm life. He was married 
in 1808 to Elizabeth, daughter of James McMon- 
nis, of the same county, and the young couple then 
settled on the farm now occupied by their son 
Mathias. The children born to their union were 
Anna (Mrs. William Uhler), John, James, Enoch, 
Mathias, Jane (Mrs. Thomas White), William, 
Elizabeth (Mrs. Elisha Van Kirk), Richard and 
Maria (Mrs. William Ravencroft). The father of 
this family died August 2, 1872, the mother March 
17, 1860, aud they lie buried in Washington cem- 
etery. They were members of the Presbyterian 
Church at Amity, and in politics Mr. Mounts was 
first a Jacksonian Democrat, then a Whig, and 
lastly a Republican; he served as supervisor for 
twenty years. 

Mathias Mounts was reared from boyhood to 
farm life, and received a fair education at the com- 
mon schools. On March 18, 1852, he was married 
to Asenath, daughter of Joseph Baker, and the 
children born to them were: Mary E. , Eunice J. 
(deceased), Sophia, Joseph, Anna, Hollace G. and 
Martha. The family are members of Liberty 
Chapel, M. E. Church, at Washington, in which 
Mr. Mounts has been trustee and steward, serving 
in the latter position for twenty-five years. Polit- 
ically he was originally a Whig, and since the 
formation of the party he has been a pronounced 
Republican. 



64S 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



T< HOMAS F. ALLEN is a native of Washing- 
ton county, Peun., having been born Novem- 
ber 7, lS'JT, in South Strabane township. 
He is a son of John and Mary (.McClellan) 
Allen, both natives of Pennsylvania, who 
were married in 1819 in Washington county. Of 
the six children born to them, two are now living, 
namely: Mary J. and Thomas F. ; Nancy died 
December 12, L892. Grandfather Allen was a 
soldier of the lievolutinary war, and afterward 
followed farming. He was a highly respected 
citizen of the community. He died in 1836, in 
this county, having been preceded by his wife 
some years. 

Thomas F. Allen was reared on the home farm 
in South Strabane township. He received a com- 
mon business education in the country schools, and 
on April 12, 1854, was united in marriage with 
Nancy A. Hill, who was born in 1830, daughter of 
David and Eliza Hill, early settlers of Washington 
county. The following children were born to this 
union: Lizzie J. (wife of David Hamilton, a farm- 
er of North Strabane township). Mary (married 
to William Emery, a farmer of Washington 
county), Anna B. (living at home), John T. (re- 
siding on the home farm), Robert W. (living with 
his parents) and Johnnie (decease 1). In 1862 Mr. 
Allen embarked in mercantile business at Clokey, 
Washington county, in which he continued until 
1865. He then moved to Searight's, Fayette Co., 
Peun.. and sold goods there two years, when he 
disposed of his stock and came to Washington 
borough, where he resided one year, and in the 
spring of 1868 bought the place where he carried 
on farming and stock raising until September, 
1892, when he moved into the borough of Wash- 
ington. Mr. Allen has always taken an active 
interest in the questions of public moment; in poli- 
tics he is a Democrat, and has been school director 
for three years. He is a successful business man, 
and owns a farm of 188 acres of good land. Mrs. 
Allen is a member of the Presbyterian Church. 



JAMES W. HUGHES, a well-known and re- 
spected citizen of Amwell township, was born 
November 5, 1850, in South Strabane town- 
ship, Washington Co., Penn. His paternal 
grandfather, S:nnuel Hughes, was a uative of 
New Jersey, his parents having emigrated from 
Ireland to that State. Samuel came to Washing 
ton county at an early day. and. locating in Am 
well township, conducted a hotel on tin- place 
which is now the home of John Little. He was 
united in marriage with Nancy Sample, and reared 
a large family. He was a successful business man, 
and in his later years moved to near Fort Madison, 
Iowa, where he died about 1860. 

Workman Hughes was born February 5, 1822, 



in South Strabane township, Washington Co., 
Penn. , and received a common-school education. 
At the age of twenty two years he began business 
for himself, first buying a farm on the National 
pike, and afterward purchasing the " McGiffm 
farm," as it is now called, consisting of 300 acres, 
situated in the southern part of Amwell township. 
In 1S47 he was married to Rachel Taylor, of South 
Strabane township, and their children were Sam- 
uel Taylor, James W.. John H., Mary E. (Mrs. 
Closser), Nancy J.. William and Rachel (Mrs. 
Myers). Mrs. Hughes died May 12. 1862, and Mr. 
Hughes in 1864 wedded Margaret Vance, who died 
in 1879, and in December, 1880, he married Martha 
Scott. As a result of his own untiring efforts he 
has prospered in life. Politically he is a Demo- 
crat, and has held several offices. 

James W. Hughes, son of Workman and Rachel 
(Taylor) Hughes, remained on the parental farm 
in South Strabane township, this county, and was 
educated in the common schools until his twenty- 
second year, when he began business for himself 
upon a farm below Ten-Mile. Amwell township, 
where he remained two years. In the fall of 1876 
he went to Iowa, but, returning home the follow- 
ing year, he purchased a hundred acres of the old 
farm in Amwell township, which he now owns. He 
then rented the H. H. Reynolds farm, and worked 
upon it for three years, when he moved to the 
small house on Mr. Lacock's farm, and in 1883 
built the barn on his own place, erecting a house 
there in 1886. On January 1, 1880, he was united 
in marriage with Margaret Horn, and their union 
has been blessed with the following children : Nel- 
lie R., born October 13, 1880; Samuel W., born 
December 24, 1 SS 1 ; Alonzo R., born December 10, 

1883; (i ge Russell, born February 7. 1886; 

Sabina A., bora February 24, 1888, and Elsie 
Garnet, born March 29, 1891. Mr. Hughes is an 
eager reader of agricultural papers and current 
news. He votes the Democratic ticket on State 
issues, but in local politics he casts his ballot for 
the best man. He was auditor of the township 
fro,,, 1878 to ISM. and from 1^S7 to 1889, and is 
now committee-man from Amwell township, having 
also held other town offices. 



TAYLOR FAMILY. Some time prior to the 
Revolutionary war, Henry Taylor, the first 
ancestor of the family under consideration, 
took up 1,000 acres of land in South Stra- 
bane township, part of which is now in 
the possession of Matthew Taylor's heirs. He was 
married to Jane White, whose home was at the 
stone house still standing near the County Home, 
Washington county, Penn. ; she had ten brothers 
and one sister. In those days all the grain was 
gathered by the hand sickle. Mr. White's ten sons 




: 



> tffi&u/tfffrj 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



651 



reaping grain in the same field with their father, 
who prided himself in his farming, and was always 
out to see that it was properly done. Henry Tay- 
lor had children as follows: Sons — Matthew, 
Joseph, John, Henry, James, George — and daugh- 
ters — Jane (married to Richard Dagg), Mary (wife 
of A. Patton). Eliza (wife of Dr. Layton) and Ann 
(married to A. McCalmont). The father of this 
family was the first judge of Washington county. 
In 1800 Judge Taylor built the first brick house 
ever erected in Washington county, Penn., the 
walls of which are eighteen inches thick from 
foundation to top; it is still standing, apparently 
as good as ever, and is now owned by the Willets. 

Joseph Taylor, son of Henry the pioi r, was 

born on the old homestead in South Strabane town- 
ship, where he passed his entire life. He married 
Annie Stewart, a native of eastern Pennsylvania, 
who came over the mountains on horseback from 
the "Forks of Elk," Maryland. She died in 
March, 1834, leaving two sons: Henry and David 
S., and her husband followed her to the grave in 

May or June, 1845, at the age of sixty eight years. 
David Stewart Taylor, Sr., was bom August 10, 
1803, (in the Taylor homestead iii South Strabane 
township, and received a fairly liberal education 
at the subscription schools of the vicinity, although 
much of his early boyhood time was passed on the 
farm. When yet a lad, he followed teaming over 
the mountains, driving six horses and hauling loads 
of as much as six thousand pounds, consisting of 
flour and farm produce, which were exchanged Eor 
various articles of merchandise. This business he 
followed thirteen years, during which time but two 
days were lost, when all travel was stopped on ac- 
count of the deep snow. On March 14, 1833, he 
was married to Sarah Oliver, who was born August 
20, 1812, in Westmoreland county, Penn. , a daugh- 
ter of Samuel and Mary (Pinkerton) Oliver, of 
Sewickley township, in that county, of Scotch Irish 
descent. Andrew Oliver (grandfather of Mrs. D. 
S. Taylor, Sr.) was married to Margaret Madole. 
He took up 500 acres under the " tomahawk claim" 
in Hempfield township, Westmoreland Co., Penn. 
Samuel Oliver, father of Mrs. David S. Taylor, Sr., 
was a son of Andrew Oliver, who was born in the 
"old country," where he married. From there 
they emigrated to the shores of Columbia, settling 
finally in Westmoreland county, Penn., where he 
took a "tomahawk claim," and here they died. 
Their children were Joseph, Samuel, James. Sarah 
(married to Thomas McCune, in Pittsburgh), Eliz- 
abeth (married to James Peoples, near Mt. Pleas- 
ant, Westmoreland county), and Jane (wife of 
William Hunter, in Westmoreland county). Sam- 
uel Oliver was born on his father's farm in West- 
moreland county, where his entire life was passed. 
He was three times married, first time to Nancy Hen- 
derson, by whom he had two daughters: Mary and 



Margaret; his second wife was Mary Pinkerton, 
who bore him two children: Jane and Sarah (wife 
of David S. Taylor, Sr.); his third wife was Salome 
Markle, by whom there was one daughter, Eliza- 
abeth. Of these five children all are now dec. 

except Jane and Sarah. The father, who had I n 

a lifelong agriculturist, died in Westmoreland 
county, September 10, 1855, aged seventy seven 
years; the mother of Jane and Sarah had passed 
away several years previously. 

At the time of his marriage David S. Taylor, Sr., 
in company with his brother Henry, was conduct 
ing a tlourmill at Madison, Westmoreland county, 
and also managing a hotel. In lS:i4 he came to 
what is now South Strabane township, this county, 
remaining there until 184V', when he moved to 
Adams county, Ohio. The ague being prevalent 
there, he soon returned to Washington count}, lo 
eating about one mile north of Raccoon Station on 
Big Raccoon creek. Smith township, and purchased 
a farm. The following children were born to him: 

Mary Ann, born D imber 29, l s -'e'> (married to J. 

F. Cooke, and living in Florence, this comity I; 
Joseph, born December 25, 1835 (in 1859 he went 
to Michigan Bluff, Cal., in order to dig for geld. 
taking the overland route, and he is now a butcher 
in San Jose); Samuel Oliver, born April 4, 1838 
(a lawyer in Wheeling, W. Va.)'; Henry G., born 
November 9, 1840 (a farmer in Smith township); 
William P., born January 7, 1843 (a physician in 
Noblestown. Allegheny Co., Penn.); JaneO.,born 
February 22, 1845 (living on the old homestead): 
David S., born October 7. 1847; -lames Buchanan, 
born March :'o, 1851 (a carpenter of Smith town- 
ship), and Matthew, born January 5, 1854 (died 
March28, L857). The father died '.March 11,1888. 
He was a member of the Presbyterian Church at 
Burgettstown, having joined it, along with his wife, 
in 1855, and in his political affiliations he was a 
leading member of the Democratic party. In busi- 
ness he was very successful, accumulating by earn- 
est and patient toil a considerable amount of 
property. In height Mr. Taylor stood five feel 
eleven inches, his weight being 180 pounds, and 
all his life he enjoyed splendid health until sixteen 
years prior to his decease, when he received a 
slight stroke of paralysis, from which he suffered 
more or less up to the day of his death. His 
widow, still hale and remarkably active for her 
years, more like a woman of sixty than one who has 
seen over four score and one summers and winters, 
is at the home of her sons David S. and J. B., and 
an unmarried daughter, calmly awaiting the sum 
mons that will call her hence. 

Henry G. Taylor was born on a farm situated 
about one and one half miles north of Wash- 
ington, Penn., after some years moving with his 
parents to Smith township. In February. I^iO. 
he was united in marriage with Susan Scott, 



652 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



who was born in 1840, daughter of Benjamin 
Scott, of Hanover township, this county, a 
representative of a pioneer family. They re- 
sided in Havover township a short time af- 
ter their marriage, and April 1, 1871, came to 
their present home in Smith township, this county, 
near the Jefferson township line. He has followed 
farming, stock raising and dairying. On June 18, 
1883, the farm was visited by a cyclone, which 
devastated the neighborhood. His' barn was 
thrown down, the house unroofed, and the out- 
buildings completely destroyed. But he set to 
work with undaunted energy, and soon from out 
the ruins arose a handsome new residence, the 
other damage being repaired as rapidly as possi- 
ble. In political opinion Henry G. Taylor is a 
counselor and adviser of the Democratic party in 
his locality, and he frequently held offices of honor 
and trust to the utmost satisfaction of all con- 
cerned. He and his estimable wife are supporters 
and attendants of the Presbyterian Church at 
Burgettatown. Their family consists of one 
daughter — Sarah Oliver — a bright girl of twelve 
summers, who adorns and cheers their home, and 
who possesses some skill as a musician. 

William Pinkerton Taylor, M. D., was born 
January 7, 1S43, on the old family homestead in 
South Strabane township, where the greater part 
of his boyhood was jmssed. He worked on the 
farm in summer time, and attended the schools of 
the neighborhood during winter, his first teacher 
being J. L. Judson. One year he spent on a farm 
in Ohio. In 1863 he commenced the study of 
hum Heine under Dr. T. W. Bradley, of Burgetts- 
town, and then entered Sterling Medical College 
at Columbus, Ohio, where he graduated in the 
spring of 1866, and April 2, same year, he located 
at Noblestown, Penn. , in the general practice of 
his chosen profession. 

On March 14, 1877, Dr. Taylor was united in 
marriage with Miss Jennie Proudfit, daughter of 
J. L. Proudfit of Burgettstown, Penn., and two 
sous have been horn to them, viz. : David S., a 
bookkeeper and stenographer, and John P. .tele- 
graph operator and agent at Canonsburg, Penn. 
On January 8, 1892, the Doctor had the misfor- 
tune to lose his house and barn by tire, but he at 
once rebuilt. He is a Freemason in high stand- 
ing; a member of Richard Vans Lodge, No. 154, 
Burgettstown ; Washington Chapter, No. 150, and 
Jacques de Molay Commandery, No. 3. Washing 
ton, Penn. 

David S. Taylor was born October 7, 1847, in 
North Strabane township, this county, and in child- 
hood eame with his parents to Smith township, 
locating upon the farm which he and his brother 
James B. now own. He assumed control of the 
home place when his father retired from active life, 
after the elder brothers had left home, and has be- 



come a very successful farmer. Mr. Taylor is a 
wide-awake and energetic man, and an active mem- 
ber of the Democratic party. He has filled vari- 
ous township offices with eminent success, and in 
the spring of 1892 was elected a justice of the 
peace for a term of five years. The home farm, 
which is situated about two miles northeast of Bur- 
gettstown, comprises 257 acres, nearly all in a high 
state of cultivation, and the present large and ele- 
gant residence was built in 18S9. Mr. Taylor has 
never enlisted in the noble army of Benedicts. 




OBEKT HORACE McCLAY is a promi- 
nent member of his family, who havp so 
many years been residents of Canton town- 
ship. His grandfather, Samuel McClay, 
emigrated from Ireland when a small boy, 
and locating in Chester county, Penn. , was, when a 
young man, married to Sarah McClellan, who was 
also of Irish birth. Some years after their mar- 
riage they settled on the farm in Canton township, 
Washington county, which has since been the home 
of their children. He died in 1838, and Mrs. Mc- 
Clay in 1842. 

John McClay, son of Samuel and Sarah McClay, 
was born in 1809 upon the home farm in Canton 
township, Washington Co., Penn., and passed his 
early youth upon the farm, receiving a very lim- 
ited education in the primitive schools of the pe- 
riod. On April 26, 1838, he married Jane, daugh- 
ter of James Smith, and after her death married 
on September 15, 1841, Jane, daughter of Robert 
Welch, who bore him four children: Sarah (Mrs. 
W. C. Morrison), William, John H. and Robert 
H. In 1857 Mr. McClay was again married, this 
time to Sarah Taggart, and after her death was 
united to Margaret Brownlee, daughter of James 
Brownlee, one of the earliest settlers of Washing- 
ton county. Mr. McClay is an active member of 
the United Presbyterian Church, with which he 
united in 1853, having formerly been connected 
with the Seceder Church. Politically he was first 
a Whig, later a Republican, and is now a leader 
in the Prohibition party. He is a prosperous man, 
one who favors all progressive movements. 

Robert Horace McClay, son of John and Jane 
(Welch) McClay, was born January 12, 1850, on 
the old farm in Canton township, this county, and 
passed his youth at home, where he received a very 
limited education in the usual sense of the term, 
but daily acquired valuable training in the lessons 
of economy, which trait has become a characteris- 
tic of the family, and has greatly enhanced their 
success in life. On January 11, 1876, he was 
united in marriage with Miss Rachel A., daughter 
of William Wright, of Buffalo township, this 
county, and they settled on a farm in Canton town- 
ship, where they resided nine years, and erected a 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



653 



handsome residence, making many improvements; 
but in 1885 they removed to their present admir- 
ably situated home, a large, commodious dwelling, 
having all conveniences. The children born to this 
union are: Annie A., John W. and Maggie M. Mr. 
McClay has ever been a close observer, and in polit- 
ical opinion has always been a Republican. With 
his family he is an active member of the United 
Presbyterian Church at North Buffalo. 



TfTsvOBERT J. MUNCE, M. D., a leading 
ILA' farmer and retired physician of North 

r V\ Strabane township, was born July 4, 1*24, 
JJ — > in South Strabane township, Washington 
v Co.,Penn. His grand father, Thomas Munce, 

was a native of County Down, Ireland, where he 
was married and had the following named children : 
Robert, Joseph, Thomas, John, Samuel, and Mattie 
(Mrs. John Mauown). In 1804 he immigrated 
with his family to the. United States, landing at 
New Castle, Del., whence they at once proceeded 
to South Strabane township, this county, where 
they settled on a piece of land on which the grand- 
father passed the rest of his life. 

Robert Munce, father of Dr. Munce, was edu- 
cated in County Down, Ireland, and was reared to 
agricultural pursuits. He was married in Ireland 
to Mary, daughter of William Quail, and in 1804 
immigrated to this country with the rest of his 
father's family, making a settlement on the farm in 
South Strabane township, this county, where, after 
rearing a family of children, he peacefully passed 
from earth. The mother died in 1856, and they 
sleep side by side in the cemetery at Washington 
borough. They were members of the Chartiers 
Presbyterian Church, and in politics Mr. Munce was 
an active Democrat. He was a successful farmer 
and stock raiser. The children born to this hon- 
ored pioneer couple were Sarah (Mrs. William Mor- 
rison, deceased), Mary A. (Mrs. William Andrews, 
deceased), Margaret (deceased), Jane (Mrs. Robert 
Carron), Catherine (Mrs. John McLain), Thomas 
(deceased), William J. and Robert J. 

Dr. Robert J. Munce received his primary edu- 
cation at the log school-house of the locality of 
his birth, and as soon as he was old enough com- 
menced to work on his father's farm, his chief 
occupation at first being to thresh the grain. 
Everything was of a very primitive nature, both 
inside and outside the old log cabin, and "home- 
spun" was the material from which most of the 
clothing was made, while boots were looked upon 
as articles suggestive of extravagance in the ex- 
treme. In the spring of 1842 he entered Wash- 
ington College, Washington, Penn., attending and 
teaching school alternately until September, 1847, 
when he graduated in a class of thirty- three, one 
of the number being the late Hon. James G. 



Blaine. In April, 1853, Dr. Munce married Mary 
Ann, daughter of Lewis Reighard, of Richland 
county, Ohio, and the young couple took up their 
residence in Henry county, Iowa, where they re- 
mained some live years, at the end of which time they 
returned to North Strabane township. Dr. Munce 
then purchased his present farm, which, by assiduous 
labor, he has brought to its present fertile condition. 
Our subjecthad studied medicine under the pre- 
ceptorship of Dr. Stephens, of Washington, with 
whom he remained three years, and later took a 
course at Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia. 
He first practiced in Richland county, Ohio, 
whence he moved to Henry county, Iowa, where 
he continued to practice, but his health failing he 
returned to this county, as already related. The 
children born to Dr. and Mrs. Munce are: Thomas, 
Robert, George, William, Anna, Maggie (Mrs. 
Park Weaver), Phoebe (wife of Rev. J. L. Thome), 
and Lizzie and Emma, who reside at home. The 
family are members of the Hill Presbyterian 
Church, of which the Doctor is a liberal supporter. 
He is a stanch Republican, and has served as a 
member of the school board several years. Dr. 
Munce has prospered in his farming, and is now 
the owner of 475 acres of as fine land as there is 
in the county. 



' 



I JffRS. ELIZABETH (STOCKDALE) 
Ml SPROWLS, daughter of Robert Stock- 
?(| dale, of Allen township, Washington 
-* Co., Penn., is of English ancestry. She 
was born October 25, 1832, and on May 
15, 1856, was married to William W. Sprowls, 
who was a worthy representative of one of the 
most prominent pioneer femilies of Washington 
county. 

John Sprowls was the first pioneer of his name 
to locate in East Finley township, Washington Co., 
Penn. He was a native of Enniskillen, Ireland, 
and in 1784 was there married to Elizabeth Love 
(also of Irish birth), who bore him the following 
children: Arthur, Jane, Edward, John, Henry, 
James, Elizabeth, Nancy, William and Mary, the 
latter two being born after their arrival in America. 
In 1793 the family emigrated from Ireland, and 
landing at Philadelphia, pushed westward to 
Carlisle, Cumberland Co., Penn., where they 
remained some time, thence removing, in about 
1795, to Washington county, Penn. Mr. Sprowls 
located near California, West Pike Run township, 
and soon afterward went to Allen township, but 
finally settled in East Finley township, where, 
in the midst of an unbroken wilderness, he erected 
a log cabin, about three quarters of a mile south- 
east of the present postoffice of Good Intent. In 
this humble little home John and Elizabeth 
Sprowls passed the remainder of their lives; and 



654 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



having well begun the herculean task of establish- 
ing a home in the desert wilds for his descendants, 
the courageous pioneer left the completion of his 
work to his children; he died September 6, 1845, 
«nd was laid to rest in the land of his adoption. 
.Mrs. Sprowls died August 10, 1818. The two 
daughters, Elizabeth and Nancy, never married, 
and passed their lives on their father's farm. 

William Sprowls, youngest' son of John Sprowls, 
was born October 5, 1794, in Carlisle, 'Cumberland 
Co., Penn., and on coming to East Finley town- 
ship, Washington county, shared the privations 
of a frontier life. He passed his youth in assisting 
liis father on the farm, and in 1823 was married 
to Dorcas Towne, who was born in 1797, a daughter 
of Eli Towne, of East Finley township, this county. 
Of the children born to them the following is a 
brief record: Eli (deceased) lived to an advanced 
age; .lames died at the age of twenty-four; John 
married Miss McCreary, and entering the war of 
the Rebellion, died in the service; William W. is 
husband of our subject; Abigail died at the age of 
seventeen; Elizabeth died at an advanced age, 
unmarried; Henry married Miss McClellau, and is 
now farming in West Finley township; Dorcas 
Ann is a resident of Washington, Penn.; Isaac and 
Ezra died in youth; Cyrus enlisted in the Civil 
war, in Company E, Eighty-fifth Regiment P. V.I., 
and died in the service. After his marriage Mr. 
Sprowls began to farm a place near that of his 
father, where he remained until his death, which 
occurred December 27, 1868. Mrs. Sprowls died' 
January 30, 1870. 

William W. Sprowls was born in East Finley 
township. Washington Co., Penn., August 17. 1826, 
and during his earlier years assisted his father 
mi the farm, afterward learning the cooper's 
trade. After his marriage to Elizabeth Stockdale 
Mr. Sprowls settled on the old home farm, and 
passed his life in agricultural pursuits. The 
following children came to this union: Fremont, 
born April 14, 1857 (now living in Morrow county, 
Oreg.); Stockdale, born October 22, 1858 (residing 
in East Finley township, this county); Eli W., 
born May 12, 1861 (a fanner of West Finley 
township); Deborah, born May 25, 1804 (residing 
with her mother); Mary B., born August 6, 1865 
(wife of John Golden, living in Good Intent, this 
county); Cyrus, born January 8, 1868 (remaining 
at li.inie): Aslmry. born May 30, 1870 (deceased in 
infancy); Robert A., born May 12, 1872 (still living 
:it home), and Hannah A., born August 24, 1873 
(residing at home). Mr. Sprowls was a. man of 
sterling worth. In politics he was a Republican. 
He was a member of the Disciple Church, and con- 
tributed liberally to its support, He died April 20, 
1888. His widow now manages the farm. She is 
a member of the Disciple Church. 



Jl( DAM G. WEAVER. The great-grandfather 
l\ of our subject, also named Adam Weaver, 
4\ came from Germany, with his son John, at 
-* an early period, and locating in Washing- 
ton county, Penn., bought the land which 
is just below the present home of Adam G., and 
there spent the remainder of his life. His son, 
John, purchased a farm of 400 acres on Fish Pot 
run, in East Bethlehem township, a mile west of 
Fredericktown. He had received a limited educa- 
tion, but was a man of general information. In 
1 788 he married Catherine, a daughter of Martin 
Spohn, and the following children were born to 
them: Adam (deceased), Mrs. Sarah Michner, 
Jacob (deceased), Martin. Daniel (deceased). Mis. 
Elizabeth Ault (deceased), Mrs. Catherine Huff- 
man, Mrs. Mary Smith (deceased), John (deceased), 
Joseph (deceased) and Margaret. Mrs. Weaver 
was a member of the Reformed Dutch Church. 
Mr. Weaver died in 1816, and Mrs. Weaver in 1866. 

Adam Weaver was born in May, 1791, in East 
Bethlehem township, this county, and there lived 
all his life. He was educated in the schools of the 
period, aud when about twenty three years of age, 
bought a ninety acre farm in East Bethlehem, and 
began to work upon it. He was very successful, 
and added to the land as the business prospered. 
In 1810 he married Elizabeth Black, and she bore 
him eight children, viz.: Mary (deceased), John 
(deceased), Daniel (deceased), Mrs. Elizabeth Mech- 
ner, Jacob, Solomon, Sarah and Adam' G. Mr. 
Weaver voted an independent ticket, selecting the 
best men, without regard to party. He was a mem- 
ber of the M. E. Church, while his wife belonged 
to the Bible Christian Society; she died in 1836, 
and was followed by her husband January 17, 1857. 

Adam G. Weaver was born in East Bethlehem 
township, October 8, 1828, and remained upon the 
farm until twenty-two years of age. He received 
a limited education at the common schools, but lias 
by general reading acquired much valuable knowl- 
edge, ami improved his mind. After he became of 
age he went to Indiana, where he engaged in agri- 
culture, remained there a year, and on his return 
worked a farm belonging to an uncle, about two 
years. On February 10, 1S54, he married Cynthia, 
daughter of James and Charlotte Hill, of West 
Betlilehem township, and worked on Mr. Hill's 
farm live years, at the end of which time (1859) he 
purchased his present place of 170 acres of prime 
land. The following children were the residt of 
his marriage with Miss Hill: James C. . born Au- 
gust 8, 1856; Sarah E., born March 22, 1859; 
Clarence E., born January 1, 1863; and Mary J., 
born September 17. 1865. Sarah E. is the wife of 
James C. Addleman, and Mary J. married Michael 
Menchy. Mrs. Cynthia Hill died June 2 ( J, 1869. 
On June 26, 1873, Mr. Weaver was married to 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



655 



Elizabeth, daughter of James and Catherine 
Wherry, and the following children were born to 
this union: Adam E. , born June 19, 1874; Eliza- 
beth 0., born September 3, 1876; Francis A., 
born March 21, 1879; John T., born January 8, 
1882; and Charles E., born April 3, L884. Mr. 
Weaver has always been a Republican, a zealous 
worker for the interests of his party. He is a 
member of the M. E. Church. 




RS. ELIZABETH V. BOYLE is a daugh- 
ter of Joseph Henderson. The latter was 
a native of Bucks county, Penn., and re- 
ceived a subscription-school education. 
In early life he was employed as a stage 
driver, finally locating on a farm. He was married 
to Miss Rachel Stroud, and they had six children, 
namely: Resen, living in Minneapolis, Minn.; 
John B. , residing at Washington, this county; 
Anna (Mrs. Ross), living in Kansas; Sarah, resid- 
ing at Washington; J. H., and Elizabeth V. The 
father was a Methodist, and contributed liberally 
to the support of the cause. Elizabeth V. Hen- 
derson grew to womanhood on the home place, and 
in February, 1873, was united in marriage with 
Felix Boyle, son of Felix. 

Felix Boyle, the father, was born in County 
Donegal, Ireland. When a young man he crossed 
the ocean and settled in Pennsylvania, first locating 
at Williamsport (now Monongahela). He was 
there married to Ann, daughter of James Rice, who 
came to Washington county in 1780, and in 1791 
erected a house, the corner-stone of which perpet- 
uates his memory. Mr. and Mrs. Boyle began 
wedded life on the farm in Carroll township, Wash- 
ington Co., Penn., where he followed his trade of 
a stone-mason. For several years his farm produce 
was shipped down the Monongahela river by flat- 
boat, and in company with other pioneers he made 
many trips to New Orleans. On arriving at their 
destination these boats were sold, and the men re- 
turned home by land or came via Philadelphia by 
water. During one of these journeys Mr. Boyle 
was taken seriously ill on the vessel, and so low 
was the spark of vitality that many of the crew 
thought him dead, and in accordance with their 
custom, prepared to throw him overboard. At this 
critical juncture a comrade named Black stepped 
above the apparently lifeless body of his friend, 
and waving aloft a hatchet, dared the men to touch 
him. His fearless courage and heroic devotion 
conquered, and life soon becoming apparent, he 
was permitted to care for the unfortunate man 
until his health was restored. Mr. Boyle voted 
with the Democratic party, and in religion was a 
Catholic, often attending services at Pittsburgh and 
Brownsville. He owned 123 acres of land in Car- 
roll township, Washington county, and in connec- 



tion with general farming conducted a distillery, 
making a specialty of peach brandy. He died Jan- 
uary 2, 1841, and April 15, 1804, his wife was laid 
beside him. The children of this family were born 
as follows: Alice, Connel, John, Esther (Mrs. 
Richard Crosby), Maria, Felix and James. 

Felix Boyle, son of Felix and Ann (Rice) 
Boyle, was born June 13, 1813, on the homestead 
in Carroll township. He received a good educa- 
tion, and learned carpentry and shipbuilding at 
Elizabethtown, Penn., working at the latter busi- 
ness for many years. For a time he was employed 
on the United States vessels, and in that capacity 
traveled extensively, having been on the Red river 
under Capt, Shreve, who founded the town of 
Shreveport, La. Mr. Boyle was instrumental in 
breaking up the immense raft in the Red river 
some years ago, also being employed on the Rio 
Grande river in Texas. After leaving the river he 
assisted in the two large shipyards near Mononga- 
hela on the Monongahela river, operated bv his 
brothers — Connel and John Boyle, also in the black- 
smith shops, mills and in opening coal mines, etc. 
After following this business several years with 
great success, he retired to his farm in Carroll 
township, where he died October 4, 18S4, of can 
cer, for which he had been unsuccessfully treated 
by skillful New York physicians. Politically he 
was an ardent Democrat, serving in many town- 
ship offices, but declined to serve in county posi- 
tions. An enterprising citizen and successful bus- 
iness man, he was also a cheerful, kind-hearted 
neighbor, ever ready to aid the needy. He left a 
widow and one son, the only daughter, Maria, hav- 
ing preceded him to the grave on Christmas day, 
1878. The son, Joseph James, was born October 
19, 1876, and is now living on the old farm with 
his widowed mother. He is a leader in his classes 
at school, and bids fair to do honor to the name he 
bears. Miss Crosby, granddaughter of Felix Boyle, 
the elder, is living with Mrs. Boyle. The latter 
superintends the management of the home place, 
which contains 123 acres of fertile land. 



LARK M. UNDERWOOD is a son of James, 
and a grandson of Abraham Underwood 
The latter was descended from one of nine 
brothers who were English Quakers, and 
came to America with William Penn. Abraham 
Underwood was born in 1765, in Philadelphia, 
Penn., and after the Revolutionary war, engaged 
in mercantile pursuits at Baltimore, Md. About 
the year 1800 he came to Brownsville, Fayette Co., 
Penn., and there followed his trade of tailor. He 
reared a family of five children, of whom George 
is the only one yet living. Another son, Cyrus, has 
been one of the most prominent and useful citizens 
of Washington county, and served for twenty-four 



656 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



years as member of the school board of Monon- 
gahela, and recorder of Washington county one 
term. He was a man of unusual intelligence, and 
very popular in the community. He died in 1885. 
The father removed to Monongahela City in 1832, 
and worked at his trade until just before his death, 
which occurred in 1840. He was a member of the 
Whig party. With other brothers' families he was 
a member of the M. E. Church. 

James Underwood, son of Abraham, was born in 
1810, in the house which is yet standing on the 
homestead near Brownsville, Penn. He there 
learned the trade of a coverlet weaver, making the 
old fashioned but beautiful bed clothing so seldom 
seen in the present day. He followed his trade 
until thirty years of age. The increasing use of 
machinery then obliged him to abandon the busi- 
ness, and he learned ship carpentry in the yards at 
Brownsville, Penn. In early manhood he was mar- 
ried to Miss Lydia Bright, who was born in 181", 
and the following children blessed their union: 
Clark M. ; Cyrus, who was for thirty years a resi- 
dent of Chicago, and is now the wealthy manager 
of large safe works at Elizabeth, Penn. ; Catherine, 
Mosoria, both of whom died in infancy; Sarah, wife 
of Rev. Fanning, of Minneapolis. Minn., and Mag- 
gie, widow of Joseph Powell, who died in 1889, 
living with her mother in Fayette county, Penn. 
After locating in Brownsville, Mr. Underwood 
continued to follow his trade until ten years prior 
to his death in 1884, in his seventy-fourth year. 
In politics he was a Republican, and served as 
school director for many years, and was also a 
member of the M. E. Church. Continuing to re- 
side on a farm, four miles from Brownsville, and 
two and a half miles from his birthplace, until his 
death. The mother is yet living with her daughter 
in Fayette county, Penn. 

Clark M. Underwood was born January 14, 
L834, on Front street, in Brownsville, Penn., and 
learned ship carpentering of his father, with whom 
lie worked for ten years. He then engaged in the 
shoe business at St. Louis, Mo. , and sold out 
when the Civil war began. Commissioned by the 
Secretary of the Navy, he entered the navy as 
master ship carpenter, serving on the famous 
" Essex," under Admiral David D. Porter. He was 
aboard one of the vessels, the " Lafayette," which 
ran the blockade at Vicksburg in 1863, and partic- 
ipated in many other well-known engagements. 
At t lie close of the war he returned to Washington 
county, Penn., and settled on a farm near Clays- 
ville, where he resided until 1800. He then sold 
the place and moved upon anoth'-r farm in West 
Finley township, residing there for twelve years, 
and in 1878 sold that property, and lived in M" 
Qongahela City for two years, in the residence he 
bought from Henry McKaine on Chess street. In 
L880 he bought the beautiful faun in Carroll 



township, where he is now living, containing 104^ 
acres of land, situated a short distance from Mo- 
nongahela. He was married May 4, 1852, to Miss 
Harriet, daughter of Benjamin Foster, who was 
then living in Monongahela. The following chil- 
dren were born to this union: Ida, Mrs. H. B. 
Carroll, of West Finley township; Charles, who 
resided in Dakota for several years, and recently 
moved to a farm in Iowa; Edward E. Under- 
wood, residing in Morton, Kans., is an extensive 
grain buyer; Clarence P., living in Nebraska, has 
a farm of 481) acres; Frank, the youngest son, is a 
student in the West Pennsylvania Medical College, 
and will graduate in 1894, and Margaret, a teacher 
in the public schools of Washington county, is the 
youngest child. Mr. Underwood is an independ- 
ent voter, always casting his ballot for the candi- 
date who is best fitted for the office, regardless of 
his party preferences. In religious faith he and 
his wife prefer the Presbyterian Church. 



JAMES SAMPSON, a patriarchal son of the 
Keystone State, a retired agriculturist, and, 
J in his younger days, a typical follower of 
Nimrod, is a native of Westmoreland county, 
born in 1806. William Sampson, his father, 
came, when a young man, in company with several 
brothers, from their native home in Ireland to the 
shores of Columbia, and made a permanent set- 
tlement in Westmoreland county. William mar- 
ried Mrs. Mary (Neal) Beazell, daughter of the 
pioneer of the Monongahela Valley, Matthew Neal, 
and widow of Matthew Beazell. To them were 
born four children: James (formerly president of 
the Peoples Bank), Harvey, Thomas and Dorcas. 
The latter married Elijah Teeple. To her mar- 
riage with Matthew Beazell five children were born: 
Catherine, Elizabeth, Margaret, William and John. 
In 1812 William Sampson moved to Horse Shoe 
Bottom, in Carroll township, Washington county. 
where he successfully followed farming and distil- 
ling, at the time of his death owning 200 acres of 
laud, part of which he had bought at $12 per acre. 
In his day grain was cut with a sickle, and hi 1 was 
famed far and near for his dexterous handling of 
that primitive implement, and for the amount of 
win at. barley, oats or grass he could cut in a day. 
He died at the age of forty-five years. 

James Sampson, of whom this sketch more es- 
pecially treats, married, in 1S40, Miss Mary, 
daughter of Robert Grant, of Carroll township. 
This lady died March 25, 1888. To them were 
born nine children, of whom two died in infancy. 
Harriet first married Thomas Reeves, by which 
union there were two daughters: Mary (wife of 
Harvey Fry, by whom she has one mphi and Lena 
(wife of Harry Nuttall, of Pittsburgh: they have 
one son). Mrs. Reeves was again married, this 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



057 



time to Joseph Truman, since deceased. Mrs. 
Truman, who is a lady of true refinement, now re- 
sides with her father on the home farm. William 
Sampson married Miss Lou Welch, daughter of 
John Welch, of Mt. Vernon, Ohio, and to them 
five children were born: Mary, Sarah, John, Lulu 
and Willie. Kate married Capt. Jenkins, and to 
her two children were born. Mary and Virginia. 
Jennie married T. J. Weddell, and has three chil- 
dren, James, Jessie and Mary. Harvey married 
Miss Jennie Yorty, to whom six children were 
born : Bertie, Grace, James, Ada, Frank and 
Ethel. John married Mary V. Williams, and to 
them five children were born: Gertrude, Howard, 
Grant, Helen and Alice M. Ada Ethel married 
C. R. Dallas, of Pittsburgh, they are the parents 
of four children: James S., Sarah, Charlie and an 
infant, deceased. 

Mr. Sampson has been a hardworking, holiest 
and frugal man, and, though now past the eighty- 
sixth milestone on his journey through life, is 
keen and bright in intellect. In middle life he 
was fond of hunting, and took great pride in be- 
ing the owner of the fleetest dogs in his section. 
Many a time, after doing a hard day's work on the 
farm, he would spend almost an entire night in the 
pursuit of game, accompanied by his faithful dogs. 
In politics he has been a Whig, Know-nothing 
and Republican, in the ranks of which latter 
party he has voted since its organization. Now, in 
peaceful retirement, the owner of 1,200 acres of 
land, Mr. Sampson finds himself surrounded with 
the comforts that come to the sunset of a well 
spent, iudustrious life. 




BIA MINOR HAYS, a prominent and 
popular dealer in general merchandise in 
the village of Simpson's Store, East Finley 
township, was born April 12, 1852, on the 
banks of the Little Kanawha river, Wood 
county, n.ear Parkersburg, W. Va. , his parents 
having a short time before his birth removed 
thither from Wayuesburg, Greene Co., Penn. 

His father, James Wilson Hays, who was born 
in Wayuesburg December 21, 1817, was engaged 
in mercantile business for many years in his native 
town, and Graysville, same State. He represented 
the Fortieth Senatorial District of Pennsylvania in 
the State Senate, serving two terms. His wife 
(the mother of our subject), also a native of Greene 
county, was Hannah M. , daughter of Abia Minor, 
and granddaughter of Gen. John Minor, who was 
one of the associate judges of Greene county for 
many years, in fact, up to the time of his death. 
William Hays, the paternal grandfather of A. M. 
H;iys, migrated in 1804 from Adams county, 
Penn., to Waynesburg, where he embarked in 
mercantile business, and for nearly a score of years 



held the office of prothonotary of the county. 
Sarah (Wilson) Hays (grandmother of A. M. Hays) 
was a daughter of James Wilson, a native of Ire- 
land, who emigrated to America and settled at 
Washington, Penn., along with many other so- 
.called "Scotch-Irish Presbyterians," in the latter 
part of the last century. He was there married to 
a Miss Lytle, and removed to Wayuesburg at the 
time Greene county was founded, and that village 
was made the county seat; he became the first 
postmaster at Waynesburg. 

Abia Minor Hays served an apprenticeship <>f 
several years with his father in the mercantile 
business at Graysville, Greene Co., Penn., and 
then, in 1878, embarked in business for himself, 
in merchandising at Euon, in Richhill township, 
Greene county. In 1879 he moved to the village 
of Simpson's Store, subsequently purchasing the 
property. He sold his interests there to W. E. 
Jenkins, October 1, 1892, and moved to Washing 
ton, Penn. Early in 1893 he leased the Whitla 
store, No. 25 Broadway, New Brighton, Beaver 
county, and established there an extensive dry- 
goods house with departments devoted to carpets, 
millinery, books and stationery. Mr. Hays is a 
Democrat, but not a politician. He was postmaster 
at Harvey's, Greene county, for three years, and 
afterward at Simpson's Store for twelve years, or 
until his removal to Washington, Penn. Mr. Hays 
was married April 24, 1879, to Miss Nannie Hous- 
ton, who was born in Richhill township, Greene 
county, November 25, 1852. She is a daughter of 
Simon Houston, Esq., who removed to Greene 
county in 1848 from Washington county, and died 
March 14, 1877. Her mother, Maria (Cummins) 
Houston, now living, was born August 3, 1824, in 
Greene county, of which her parents were natives. 
To the marriage of A. M. and Nannie (Houston) 
Hays four children were born, namely: Nancy 
Maria, October 20, 1880; Sophia Elizabeth, Feb- 
ruary 9, 1883; Wilson Houston, February 14, 1887, 
and Harry Minor, December 10, 1892. The three 
first named are now (March, 1893) residing at Simp 
son's Store. Mr. and Mrs. A. M. Hays and their 
eldest daughter are members of the Christian 
Church. 

DEMAS L. AMES, one of the prominent 
citizens of West Bethlehem township, is a 
/ son of John Ames, whose father, Jabez, 
was born in Maryland, where he grew to 
manhood and married Elizabeth Smith. 

Jabez Ames came to Washington county, and 
erected one of the first log cabins here. The country 
whs \ <*ry wild, and the Indians became so hostile 
that Mr. Ames, after repeated efforts to clear his 
land (for which he had previously secured a patent), 
turned Indian-fighter and hunter. In that lonely 
little cabin were born five sons and three daughters. 



658 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



all of whom are dead. Jobn, who was the young- 
est of the boys, attended one of the first schools 
organized in Washington county, and at the early 
age of seventeen, in the year 1818, married Mary 
Thompson, a daughter of Thomas Thompson, who 
came to Washington county about the same time. 
as the elder Ames, and whose family also consisted 
of five sons and three daughters. To John and 
Mary Ames the following named children were 
born: Rosa Ann, now living in Scottsburgh, Ind. , 
widow of Otto Mas-heart; Elizabeth, in Hills- 
borough, this county, widow of Henry Bush; 
Arthur, a prominent farmer of West Pike Hun 
township; E. H, living in West Bethlehem town 
ship: Demas L., our subject; Mary Ann (Mrs. 
Samuel Yoder), who died in April, 1880; John 
Mertin, who died in 1878, and Joshua, Celia and 
Samuel, all three of whom died in infancy, Samuel 
breathing his last in the arms of his brother Demas. 
Demas L. Ames was born October 17, 1840, and 
his early life was spent upon the home farm, and 
in learning the trade of blacksmith, which he was 
eventually compelled to abandon because of de- 
fective eyesight. He then returned to farming, 
which he has since followed. He married Lydia 
A. Miller, daughter of Joseph Miller, of Amwell 
township, December 21, 1861, and to them the 
following children were born: Joshua, who died in 
infancy; Elizabeth, a resident of West Bethlehem 
township, wife of Isaiah Grable; Emmer Marsh, 
who lives at the home of his parents, and who mar- 
ried Louisa Gunloe, a daughter of Henry Gunloe, 
of West Bethlehem township; and Arabella, living 
in Somerset township, the wife of Jonathan Konkle. 
The mother of Demas, who is a remarkably pre- 
possessing old lady, resides at his home. She en- 
joys the distinction of being the grandmother and 
the great-grandmother of forty-two descendants. 
During the war, Demas Ames was a member of 
Company A, 22d P. V. C, under James P. Hart; he 
was. however, transferred to Company B, 18th P.Y. 
('.. before theclose of the struggle. He was a gal- 
lant soldier, and served his country long and well, 
but like many' another, he contracted diseases while 
in the service, from which he is to-day suffering. 
Mr. Ames is a life-long Republican, although not 
an office seeker, and has declined to accept nom- 
inations proffered by his party. Both himself and 
wife are earnest members of the Disciple Church. 



Rachel, Mary Ann, Lydia, Catherine, Susan, Sarah, 
Jacob, Peter, Samuel, John and William. 

Samuel Garrett was born July 15, 1810, in West 
Bethlehem township. His education was the best 
that could be secured under the circumstances, 
but he took advantage of every opportunity which 
might add to his store of knowledge, and is there- 
fore a very well read man. In his youth the 
country was wild, and the young pioneer fre- 
quently encountered Indians and wild animals. 
In 1840 he married Deliah Grable, daughter of 
Samuel Grable, of West Bethlehem township, and 
after marriage they removed to the farm which he 
now owns. The following children have been 
born to them: Cephas, Silas, Lebens, Lavina, 
Clara, and one that died in infancy. The mother 
of these children died in 1857. Mr. Garrett is a 
Democrat, but ill health has prevented his taking 
an active part in politics for the last rive years. 
Prior to 1887 he was prominent in the political 
affairs of his township, and was repeatedly elected 
to the office of justice of the peace. His farm con- 
sists of 135 acres of very fine land. The house in 
which he resides was built by Jacob Garber in 
IMS. Mr. Garrett is a member of the Lutheran 
Church. 



LMUEL GARRETT. This lifelong hon- 
ored resident of West Bethlehem township 
is a grandson of Peter Garrett and son of 
Nicholas, who was born" in Maryland in 
1 i ?9, and there married Mary Ann Baumgardner. 
About the commencement of the present century 
they removed to Washington county, Perni. The 
children born to them were as follows: Elizabeth, 



QUYON MORRISON. The Morrisons of the 
Upper Chartiers Valley trace their ancestry 
to Guyon (or Gavin) Morrison, who removed 
from East Nottingham, in Chester county. 
Peuu., and settled on a tract of land on the 
waters of Chartiers creek, within the limits of 
Chartiers township, in Washington county, of the 
same State, prior to the war of the Revolution. By 
comparison of data, from traditions and records, 
it is reasonably certain that Guyon Morrison came 
from Northern Ireland to Delaware Bay with the 
great Scotch-Irish migration of the year 1721). He 
was born, probably in Londonderry, about the year 
17* 15. His ancestors, doubtless, had come with 
the influx of Presbyterians from Scotland, prior 
to the famous siege of that place in 1689. The 
family name "Morrison" had belonged to a clan 
in Scotland from an early period. 

In this country, as far as known, the earliest 
mention of the name of Guyon Morrison is found 
in the taxable lists of East Nottingham, Chester 
Co., Penn., for the year 1730. In the lists re- 
ferred to, liis name appears in the class of unmar- 
ried men; in the lists for the year 1731 his name 
appears in the class of householders or married 
men. from which fact we infer that his marriage 
had taken place in the year 1733. His name re- 
curs, in the East Nottingham list", continuously 
until the year 1770, after which date it disappears 
from the lists. The official records of Chester 
county show that in December, 1770, Guyon Mor- 







jcn^ 



WASHING TON CO UN TV. 



661 



rison disposed of his property in Chester cqunty, 
and, as his name is not found there on records of 
a later date, it is certain that he must have removed 
from that county in the year 1771. Some records 
recently found in Washington county show that 
in the year 1770 the Morrisons had been settled on 
the waters of a tributary of Chartiers creek, for a 
sufficient length of time to give to the stream the 
name of "Morrison's run." In fact, the name 
" Morrison's run'' became the official designation 
of the stream, as will be learned by reference to 
the Patent records of the Pennsylvania Land Office. 
The family traditions likewise confirm the conclu- 
sion that the Morrisons, on their removal from 
Chester county in the year 1771, came directly to 
the place of their settlement in the Upper Chartiers 
Valley. Soon after Guyon Morrison had settled on 
Chartiers, this entire region jsassed under the con- 
trol of the'colony of Virginia. For many years he 
held the tract on which he had settled, under the 
original "tomahawk" right. He lived, however, 
to witness the re-establishment of the authority of 
Pennsylvania, and the creation of the county of 
Washington. Of the tract on which he settled, 
the larger portion still remains in the possession 
of descendants bearing the same name, having 
passed by inheritance until it is now, after a lapse 
of 120 years, in the hands of his great-grandchil- 
dren. 

In the will of Guyon Morrison, which was made 
on August 28, 1782, his son John and Hon. 
Matthew Ritchie were named as executors. This 
will was entered for record on July 2, 1783. From 
the date of the entrance of the will for record it is 
reasonably certain that the death of Guyon Mor- 
rison occurred in June, 1783. Of the history of 
his wife nothing is known. There is reason to be- 
lieve that her maiden name was Margaret Wilson. 
From the fact that her name is not found in the 
conveyance of the Morrison property, made in De- 
cembef, 1770, it seems probable that her death had 
occurred prior to that time. They had issue: 
William, Elizabeth, John, Jane, Margaret, Fran- 
cis, Guyon, Jr., and James. 

(1) William, eldest of the family of Guyon 
Morrison, Sr., was born probably in 1735. About 

the year 1700 he married Ann , and resided 

for a time in Chester county. On his removal to 
this region he settled on a tract in Peters township, 
near the east branch of Chartiers creek, where he 
resided until his death in Jul}', 1818. His wife 
had died about twenty years before. .They had 
issue: John, James, George, Elizabeth, Francis, 
Guyon, Ann, William, Jr.. Seth and David. 

John (eldest of the family of William, Sr. ) died 
in early manhood. James (son of William, Sr. ) 
was born probably in 1765; he married Phebe M. 

, and resided in Robinson township, where he 

died September 11, 1832; his wife survived him 

32 



some years; they had issue: John, Barnabas, 
Keziah (wife of John Brown), James, Martha and 
Elizabeth. George (son of William, Sr.) was born 
in 1707; about 1800 he married Mary (iraham, 
and resided in Robinson township until his death, 
May 12, 1854; his wife died in 1845; they had 
issue: John, William, Seth, Mary (wife of Joseph 
Partridge. Sr.), George, Jr., Rachel. Jared, Ann 
(wife of William Best), and David. Elizabeth 
(daughter of William, Sr.) was born in 1771; in 
1791 she married Stephen Sexton, who was a step 
son of Thomas Wilson, an early settler of Peters 
township; in April, 1802, she removed to Poland, 
in Mahoning county, Ohio, where she resided until 
her death, April 30, 1830; her husband died in 
1850, aged ninety-four years; they had issue: 
John, Nancy (wife of John Justice), Joseph, Will- 
iam, Stephen, Jr., and Martha (wife of Isaac 
Justice). Francis (son of William, Sr.) was born 
in 1773; in 1795 he married Rosanini Frew, 
daughter of Alexander Frew, and soon afterward 
removed to Slippery Rock, in Lawrence county, 
where he resided until his death June 5, 1 V>7; 
his wife died in 1840; they had issue: Ann (wile 
of Joseph Eccles), William and Alexander. Guyon 
(son of William, Sr. ) was born in April, 1775; in 
1807 he married Hannah Cannon, and resided in 
Peters township until his death, October 1, 1840; 
his wife died in 1N7'_\ aged eighty-live years; no 
issue. Ann (daughter of William, Sr.) was born 
in 1777; after the death of her father she removed 
to the home of her sister, Elizabeth Sexton, at 
Poland, Ohio; in 1821 she married John Frew, son 
of Alexander Frew, and removed to Slippery Rock, 
in Lawrence county, where she resided until her 
death, June 11, 1852; her husband died in 1853, 
aged eighty-three years; no issue. William, Jr. 
(son of William, Sr. ), was born in 1779; until 
middle life he resided in Washington county; in 
his latter years he removed to Lawrence county, 
where he resided with his nephew William, son of 
his brother Francis, until his death in 1855. Seth 
(son of William, Sr.) was born in 1781; in 1809 
he married Rachel Laird, daughter of James and 
Elizabeth Laird; in 1811 he removed to Meso- 
potamia, in Trumbull county, Ohio, where he was 
killed by the falling of a tree, June 10, 1823; no 
isMie; his widow, who married John Chambers. 
died in 1850, aged sixty years. David (youngest 
of the family of William, Sr.) was born in 1783; 
he married Priscilla Braden, and resided in Peters 
township until his death, January 2S, 1830; no 
issue; his widow married Alexander McBurney. 

(2) Elizabeth, daughter of Guyon Morrison, Sr., 
was probably the second in order of birth. About 
1700 she married John Loughridge, Jr., and 
resided in East Nottingham, in Chester county, 
until her death in 1707. Her husband had died in 
1766. They had issue: Elizabeth and Margaret, 



662 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



who accompanied their grandfather Morrison, on 
his removal to the Chartiers Valley. By his will 
they were made legatees of his estate. There is 
reason to believe that Elizabeth married a Mr. 
Cochrane, prior to the year 1789. It is thought 
probable that Margaret was unmarried, and had 
died prior to that year. Nothing further is known 
of them. 

(3) John, son of Guyon Morrison, Sr., was prob- 
ably the third in order of birth. He was one of 
the executors of his father's estate. His name is 
found in the list of the first grand jury called, un- 
der the authority of Pennsylvania, to meet in 
Washington county. He acquired a large tract of 
land in Peters township, where he resided until his 
death in March, 1789. He was unmarried. 

(4) Jane, daughter of Guyon Morrison, Sr. , was 
born probably in 1740. About 1762 she married 
Thomas Grier, who had come from Northern Ire- 
land some years before, and removed to the adjoin- 
ing township of Oxford, in Chester county, where 
she resided for a time. Afterward she removed to 
a tract of land near Carlisle, in Cumberland coun- 
ty, where she resided until her death in January, 
1823. Her husband had died in March, 1803. 
They had issue: Catherine, Elizabeth, Mary, James, 
Guyon, George, Margaret, Jane, David, Rebecca, 
Thomas and John. 

Catherine (eldest of the family of Jane) was 
born about 1764; after the death of her mother she 
removed with her brother John to Perry county, 
where she died in 1840; she was unmarried. Eliz- 
abeth (daughter of Jane) was born about the year 
1766; she married James Wilson, Jr., and resided 
in Cumberland county; while visiting her kindred 
in Beaver county she tlied at the home of her 
brother George about 1835; no issue. Mary 
(daughter of Jane) was born probably about 1768; 
after the death of her father she removed to the 
home of her brother Thomas, with whom she re- 
sided until her death, the date of which is not 
known; she was unmarried. James and Guyon 
(twin sous of Jane) were born in 1770; about 1800 
James married Miss Espy, who died soon after- 
ward without issue; in 1807 he married Maria Stu- 
art; in 1810 he removed to the Chartiers Valley, 
and resided in North Strabane township, Washing- 
ton county, until his death November 22, 1833; his 
wife died in 1859, aged seventy-nine years; they 
hail issue: Samuel Stuart, Thomas, Guyon, Jane, 
David and James, Jr. Samuel Stuart, born in 
1808, married Margaret Donaldson, and resided in 
Columbiana county, Ohio, until his death in 1886. 
Thomas, who entered the ministry, became pastor 
of a Presbyterian Church in a western city, where 
he died during his pastorate; he was unmarried. 
Guyon and Jane died on reaching adult years. 
David completed a course in medicine, and settled 
in Warren county, 111., where he was engaged in 



practice until his death in 1886. James, Jr., born 
in 1820, married Hannah Van Eman, and resides 
on the homestead; they had issue: Mary (deceased), 
William, Jane, Rebecca, Anna, Frances and Thomas. 
Guyon (twin son of Jane) came to Washington 
county probably as early as 1795; about 1800 he 
married Polly Allison, and removed to Beaver, 
where he resided until 1819, when he removed 
elsewhere; some years afterward he returned to 
Washington county, and resided at the home of his 
brother James until his death, August 12, 1832; his 
wife had died probably about 1819; they had issue: 
John, born probably about 1805, who resided in 
Wheeling, W. Va., at the time of his father's 
death, but of whose subsequent history nothing is 
known. George (son of Jane) was born probably 
in 1772; about 1800 he removed to Beaver county, 
and founded the town long known as Gj-iersburgh, 
now called Darlington; about 1804 he married 
Anna Taggart, who died in 1811; they had issue: 
Robert, Jane (wife of John Rider, and afterward 
wife of John Boon, of Washington county), and 
Margaret, wife of John Duncan; in August, 1812, 
he married Elizabeth Woods, who survived him; 
he died October 10, 1844; they had issue: George, 
Jr., and Elizabeth (wife of William Adams). Mar- 
garet (daughter of Jane) was probably the next in 
order of birth; she married Thomas Clemens, and 
removed to Beaver county, where she and her hus- 
band died many years ago; they had issue: 
Thomas, John, Margaret (wife of Mr. Parkinson), 
Elizabeth (wife of Jonathan Stewart), James, Jane, 
Ann, Alexander, Guyon and Robert. Jane 
(daughter of Jane) was probably the next in order 
of birth; on March 29, 1796, she married William 
Campbell, and removed to Beaver county, where 
her husband died prior to 1820; she survived her 
husband many years; they had issue: Thomas, 
James, Robert and Alexander. David (son of 
Jane) was probably the next in order of birth; 
about 1800 he married Rachel Stuart, and removed 
to Beaver county, where he resided for some years; 
afterward he removed to Portage county, Ohio; 
about 1840 he removed to the West; he is said to 
have survived his wife, and to have died about 
1850; they had issue: Thomas, Alexander, William, 
James, David, Jr. , and Rachel. Rebecca (daughter 
of Jane) was probably the next in order of birth; 
she married Hon. Robert Sears, of New Yuri;, 
whom she survived; she died many years ago with- 
out issue. Thomas (son of Jane) was born in 
1780; he 'graduated at Dickinson College in 1797, 
studied for the ministry, and was licensed by the 
Presbytery of New Castle in 1800; in 1801 he was 
installed as pastor of the Presbyterian Church of 
Middletown, Lancaster county, where he remained 
some years; about 1830 he was called to the pas- 
torate of the church of Cold Spring, in Putnam 
county, N. Y., where he died May 19, 1834; he 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



663 



was twice married, but the names of his wives are 
not known; he had issue: George, William, John, 
Smith, Decatur and Charles. John (youngest of 
the family of Jane) was born probably in 1782; in 
1803 he was appointed one of the administra- 
tors of his father's estate; in 1829 he married 
Maria Bovard, and soon afterward removed to 
Perry county, where his wife died in 1848; he re- 
moved to Harrisburg, where he resided until his 
death in 1854; they had issue: Mary Ellen (wife of 
Mr. Crumleigh), Rebecca Jane and Charles. 

(5) Margaret, daughter of Guyon Morrison, Sr., 
was born probably in 1742. About 1763 she 
married Josiah Crawford and resided, for a time, 
in East Nottingham, Chester county. It is prob- 
able that she accompanied her kindred on their 
removal to the Chartiers Valley. She resided on 
a tract in North Strabane township, near the east 
branch of Chartiers creek, where she died about 
1795. Her husband died in May, 1797. They 
had issue: Elizabeth, Andrew, John, Josiah, 
Jr. , James, Alexander, Guyon, Margaret, Hannah, 
William and Mary. 

Elizabeth (eldest of the family of Margaret) was 
born in 1765; about 1788 she married James 
Laird; in 1809 she removed to Mesopotamia in 
Trumbull county, Ohio, where she resided until 
her death, August 23, 1826; her husband survived 
her some years; they had issue : Rachel (wife 
of Seth Morrison), John, Matthew, Andrew, Josiah. 
Seth and James. Andrew (son of Margaret) was 
probably the next in order of birth; about 1809 he 
married Mrs. Sarah (Ray) Sparks, and resided 
in Chartiers township until his death in 1813; his 
wife died near the same time; they had issue: 
Hannah, born in 1810, who married David Palmer 
about 1840, and resided in Chartiers township 
until her death in 1873; they had issue: Thomp- 
son, Margaret (wife of George Newton Watson), 
Elizabeth (wife of Mr. Reed), and Sarah (wife 
of James Arthurs). John (son of Margaret) was 
probably the next in order of birth; he was one of 
the executors of his father's estate; after the 
settlement of the estate, he removed to Trumbull 
county, Ohio, where in 1805, he married Margaret 
Wilson; nothing further is known of him. Josiah, 
Jr. (son of Margaret) was born in 1770; in 1795 he 
married Eleanor Reynolds, and resided on the 
homestead in North Strabane township, where his 
wife died in 1826; they had issue : John, Marga- 
ret, William and Elizabeth; secondly, he married 
Prudence Hanna, who survived him but left no 
issue; he died March 8, 1851. John, born in 1797, 
married Sarah Quivey, and they removed to the 
West where they had issue of whom nothing is 
known. Margaret, born in 1799, married Daniel 
Bell, and resided in Peters township until her 
death in 1889; she survived her husband many 
years; they had issue: Elizabeth, Eleanor (wife of 



James Coleman), John, Jacob, Solomon, Anna, 
Margaret and Jane. William, born about 1805, 
married Miss Bennett, and afterward Miss Hamil- 
ton, and resided on the homestead until his death 
in 1887; he had issue: Josiah, John, William 
Hamilton, Joseph, Eleanor and Mary Jane. Eliza- 
beth, born about 1815, married James Kerr, and 
resided on a portion of the homestead until her 
death in 1889; her husband died in 1891; they 
had issue: Josiah, Prudence Jane (wife of David 
Bradford Craig), and James, William and Robert. 
James (son of Margaret) was born probably in 
1772; he is said to have removed to Trumbull 
county, Ohio, but nothing is known of his history. 
Alexander (son of Margaret) was born probably in 
1774; at an early day he removed to Trumbull 
couuty, Ohio, where, in 1816, he married Cathe- 
rine Hoyles; nothing further is known of him. 
Guyon (son of Margaret) was born in 1776; he re- 
moved to Mesopotamia, in Trumbull county, Ohio, 
where he died in 1822; he was unmarried. Mar- 
garet (daughter of Margaret) was born in 1780; 
she married Alexander Shields, and removed to 
Hanover in Columbiana county, Ohio, where she 
and her husband died many years ago; they are 
said to have had issue, but nothing further is 
known of the family. Hannah (daughter of Mar- 
garet) was born about 1782; she resided on the 
homestead, where she died many years ago; she 
was unmarried. William (son of Margaret) was 
born probably in 1784; he removed to Trumbull 
county, Ohio, where he died in 1807. Mary 
(youngest of the family of Margaret) was born 
probably in 1787; she married Thomas Ray, and 
removed from Washington county. They are said 
to have had issue, but nothing further is known of 
the family. 

(6) Francis, son of Guyon Morrison, Sr., was 
born about 1745. In 1768 he married Agnes Frew. 
On his removal to this region, he settled in Peters 
township, near the junction of the east and west 
branches of Chartiers creek. In October, 1778, he 
was appointed lieutenant of the militia by the court 
of Yohogania couuty, Va. In December, 1791, 
he disposed of his property in the Chartiers Valley, 
and removed to the region of Sugar Loaf mount- 
tain, in Fayette county, where he resided until his 
death, which occurred about 1800. His wife died 
in Lawrence couuty about 1830. They had issue: 
Elizabeth, Alexander, Guyon, James, William, 
John, Francis, Jr. , Naucy, Rachel, David and 
Thomas. 

Elizabeth (eldest of the family of Francis, Sr.) 
was born September 23, 1769; in 1791 she married 
Daniel Quivey, Sr., and resided near Canonsburg, 
in Washington county; she survived her husband 
some years, dying about 1850; they had issue: 
John, James, Daniel, Jr., Sarah, Nancy, Julia, 
Henrietta and Elizabeth. John and James (sons 



664 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



of Elizabeth) removed to Ohio, and nothing 
further is known of them. Daniel, Jr. (son of 
Elizabeth), married and settled in Chartiers town- 
ship, where he and his wife died a number of years 
ago, leaving issue: Maria (wife of Stewart Miller), 
Letitia, James (who married Mary White, and re- 
sides on the homestead) and Julia. Sarah (daugh- 
ter of Elizabeth) married John Crawford, sur- 
vived her husband and resided in the West until 
her death, the date of which is not known. Nancy 
I daughter of Elizabeth), born about 1800, married 
William Flanagan, and resided near Canonsburg 
until her death in 1 SIM); she survived her husband 
some years; they had issue, of whom we have no 
information. Julia (daughter of Elizabeth) mar- 
ried John Holland, and resided at Bentleyville, 
where she and her husband died a number of years 
ago, leaving issue of whom we have no informa- 
tion. Henrietta (daughter of Elizabeth) married 
John Mcllravy, and removed to Harrison county, 
Ohio, where they resided for some years; after 
ward they removed to the West, where she and 
her husband died some years ago, leaving issue of 
whom nothing is known. Elizabeth (daughter of 
Elizabeth) married Benjamin Crawford, and re- 
sided in North Strabane township until her death 
in 1889, at the age of eighty years; she survived 
her husband, and left issue: Daniel, Benjamin, 
John, Morgan, Elizabeth, Nancy, and Margaret 
(wife of Samuel Phillips). .Daniel married Jane 
Chubbic, and resided in North Strabane until his 
death, in 1891; he left issue: D. Quivey, Bath- 
sheba and Lousarba, who reside in Canonsburg. 
Of the history of the other members of this family 
we have no information. 

Alexander (son of Francis, Sr. ) was born May 
IB, 1773; he married Catherine Hoagland, and re- 
moved to Lawrence county, where he resided for 
a number of years; he survived his wife; they had 
issue: Hoagland, Agnes (wife of John Francis), 
William, Alexander, Catherine (wife of Charles 
Lytic), and Guyon; about 1820 he returned to 
Fayette county, where he resided until his death 
in 1847; his second wife was Rachel Simmons, 
who survived him someywirs; they had issue: Mrs. 
Rachel Dauiels, Mrs. Elizabeth Daniels, Mrs. 
Anna Woodmansee. Susan, the wife of Andrew 
Boyd, Francis Thomas, Mrs. Naomi Daniels, and 
Hannah the wife of Owen Burgess. Guyon (son 
of Francis. Sr.) was horn on June 21, 1775; 
about 1SO0 he married, and resided in Somerset 
comity for a time; afterward he removed to Frank- 
fortj Ky., where he resided until his death by 
drowning, the date of which event is not known; 
he is said to have left issue, but nothing is known 
of them. James (son of Francis, Sr.) was born 
July 23, 1777: about 1800 he married Elizabeth 
Clay; in 1811 he removed to Camj) Run, in Law- 
rence county, where he resided until his death in 



August, 1821; his wife survived him many years; 
they had issue: Francis James, Leonard, Mrs. 
Ruth Ashton, William, Job Clark, David, Nancy 
(wife of William Avers) and Thomas. William 
(son of Francis, Sr.) was born June 7, 1779; 
when eighteen years of age he went on a trip 
down the Ohio, and was never heard of after- 
ward. John (son of Francis, Sr.) was born 
February 22, 1781; it is probable that he died 
in youth, as nothing further is known of him. 
Francis, Jr. (son of Francis, Sr.), was born 
February 13, 1783; about 1804 he married Eliza- 
beth Wellington whom he survived; they had is- 
sue: James, Enoch. William and Mrs. Elizabeth 
Wells: about 1820 he married Mary Thorp: he 
resided in the region of Sugar Loaf mountain un- 
til his death, November 14, 1845; his wife survived 
him; they hail issue: Francis D., Nancy I wife of 
Isaac Hall), and Mary Ann (wife of Samuel Hall). 
Nancy (daughter of Francis, Sr.) was born June 
16, 1785; she married Col. James Stewart, and 
settled on a tract, near Camp run, in Lawrence 
county, where she resided until her death, the date 
of which is not known; she is said to have left is- 
sue but nothing is known of them. Rachel (daugh- 
ter of Francis, Sr. ) was born November 5, 17S7; 
she married John Scott, and settled on a tract, near 
Camp Run in Lawrence county, where she resided 
until her death, the date of which is not known; 
she is said to have left issue, but nothing is known 
of them. David (son of Francis, Sr.) was born 
April 5, 1790; he married, and resided for a time 
in Lawrence county; afterward he removed to 
Homer, in Champaign county, 111., where he died 
many years ago; he is said to have left issue, but 
nothing is known of them. Thomas (youngest of 
the family of Francis. Sr. ) was born July 16, 
1792; on February '.). 1813, he married Nancy 
Eccles, and settled on a tract near Camp run. in 
Lawrence county, where he resided until his death 
February 21, 1851; his wife survived him some 
years; they had issue: Joseph, David, Angelina 
(wife of Samuel Brandon), and others whose names 
are not known. 

iTi Guyon Morrison, Jr., son of Guyon Mor- 
rison, Sr., was born probably in 1750. About 1776 
he married Hannah Rankin, and settled on a por- 
tion of the homestead. In October, 1778, he was 
appointed lieutenant of the militia by the Court of 
Yohogania county, Va. In May, 1792, he sold the 
portion of the homestead (which he had inherited 
from his father) to Rev. Matthew Henderson, and 
soon afterward removed to Cynthiana, Ky., where 
he resided until his death September 1, 1825. His 
wife died in 1846, aged about ninety six years. 
They had issue: Margaret, Hannah. David and 
Matilda. Margaret (eldest of the family of Guyon, 
Jr.) was born about 1778; about 1800 she married 
Mr. Steele, and resided at Versailles, Ky. , where 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



665 



she died in October, 1808; she is said to have left 
issue, but nothing is known of them. Hannah 
(daughter of Guyon, Jr.) was born probably in 
1782; she married Thompson Wigglesworth, and 
resided near Cynthiana, Ky. , until her death, May 
30, 1853; they had no issue. David (son of Guyon, 
Jr.) was born in 1781; about 1814 he married 

Sarah , and resided on the homestead until 

his death, July 2, 1826; they had issue: Zerelda 
(wife of Perry Wherritt), John and Guyon. Matil- 
da (youngest of the family of Guyon, Jr.) was 
born about 1790; she married Mr. Reenon, and re- 
moved to Mt. Olivet, Ky. , where she resided until 
her death February 28, 1819; they had issue: 
Matilda (wife of Mr. Goff, of Mt. Olivet). 

1^) James, youngest of the family of Guyon 
Morrison, Sr. , was born in 1755. He inherited that 
portion of the homestead on which his father had 
lived and died. After the formation of Washing- 
ton county, he was commissioned as captain of a 
company of the Washington Rangers, who were 
organized for defense against the intrusions of 
savage foes. In 1791 he married Mary Gibson, 
daughter of William Gibson, Sr. , of Lancaster 
county, and sister of the wife of James Bradford, 
Jr.. of Strabane township. He was a member of 
the first board of trustees of the Chartiers (Presby- 
terian) Church, over which Dr. John McMillan so 
long served as pastor. He resided on the home- 
stead until his death, November 14, 1813, and was 
buried in the graveyard on his own farm beside 
the remains of his father. His wife died August 
23, 1834, at the age of sixty-five years. Her re- 
mains were deposited beside those of her husband, 
in their quiet resting place. A few years ago their 
remains were removed, and were interred in the 
cemetery at Washington. They had issue : William, 
Margaret, John, Elizabeth, James, Jr., Guyon and 
Mary. 

William, the eldest of the family of James, 
Sr., was born March 19, 1793; in 1833 he married 
Sarah Munce, and resided, for a time, on a portion 
of the homestead; afterward, he purchased an ad- 
joining tract to which he removed, and on which he 
resided until his death, on May 13, 1853; his wife 
died February 26, 1885, aged about eighty years; 
they had issue: Mary, Sarah, Elizabeth, Margaret, 
James G. and Anna. Of the family of William, 
Mary, Margaret and James G. are unmarried, and 
reside in the borough of Washington. James G. 
owns his father's portion of the Morrison home- 
stead. Sarah, daughter of William, married John 
B. Miller, late of Canton township, but died a num- 
ber of years ago, without issue. Elizabeth, daugh- 
ter of William, married John Kussell in 1864, and 
resides in Chartiers township; she survives her 
husband, who died in January, 1893, leaving issue: 
Lula (wife of Rev. J. R. Hosick), Anna and J. Mack 



(a student of medicine). Anna, youngest of the 
family of William, married John Gibson Johnson, 
and has since resided in Cross Creek village; they 
have issue: George V., William M. and Ernest. 

Margaret (daughter of James, Sr. ) was bom 
January 2, 1795; in 1818 she married James Brad- 
ford, and removed to Cadiz, in Harrison Co., Ohio, 
where her husband died in October, 1826, at the 
age of thirty-seven years. They had issue: James 
M., David and Elizabeth (surname Bradford). 
Afterward she returned to the home of her kindred 
in Washington county. In 1832 she married 
David Watson, and resided in Chartiers township, 
where her husband died May 22, 1S43, at the age 
of fifty-one years. They had issue: John M., 
Mary and George Newton (surname Watson). 
Afterward she removed to her inheritance in Peters 
township, where she resided until her death, Jan- 
uary 17, 1875. 

James M. Bradford (eldest of the family of Mar- 
garet) was born in February, 1820; on reaching 
adult years he returned to Harrison county, Ohio, 
where he has resided ever since; in 1844 he mar- 
ried Juliana Lewis, who died in December, 1890; 
they had issue: Ann Eliza, born in 1845, who mar- 
ried Dr. J. G. Kennedy, and, secondly, Marion 
Coats, and died in April, 1890, leaving issue, Wil- 
bur W. Kennedy. David Bradford (son of Marga- 
ret) was born December 24, 1821; on July 14, 
1859, he married Rebecca Ann Bell, and has re- 
sided in Chartiers township ever since; for many 
years he was engaged in the mercantile business, 
but, latterly, he has retired from that employ- 
ment, and for some time has resided in Houston- 
ville; politically, he has been honored, by the 
people of Washington county, with a term as 
county auditor, and with a term as county com- 
missioner; they have had issue: John and Mary. 
John, who was born August 22, 1860, is unmar- 
ried, and resides with his parents; Mary died 
October 5, 1889, in early womanhood. Elizabeth 
Bradford (daughter of Margaret) resided with her 
mother in her declining years; after the death of 
her mother she removed to Scio, Harrison Co., Ohio, 
where she still resides; she is unmarried. John 
M. Watson (son of Margaret) was born January 
31, 1834; in 1866 he married Sarah Borland, and 
resided on the homestead in Peters township for 
some years; afterward he purchased a tract in 
North Strabane township where he has since re- 
sided ; they have no issue. Mary Watson (daughter 
of Margaret) was born about 1836; in October, 
1859, she married Peter Martin, and has since re- 
sided in Chartiers township; they have issue: Eva 
(wife of John Jamison), Anna, George and Eliza- 
beth. George Newton Watson (youngest of the 
family of Margaret) was born in December, 1839; 
in 1876, he married Margaret Palmer, and 



666 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



removed to Washington county, Iowa, where he re- 
sided until his death in May, 1891; they had issue: 
two daughters. 

John (son of James, Sr.) was horn March 19, 
1797. He inherited that portion of the homestead 
on which his father and grandfather had lived and 
died. In 1867 he removed to Harrison county, 
Ohio, where he resided with his nephew, James 
M. Bradford. In 1870 he sold his inheritance in 
Chartiers township, in Washington county, to his 
brother Guyon. Afterward he returned to Wash- 
ington county, where he resided at the home of 
his nephew, David Bradford, until his death, 
November 25, 1880. He was unmarried. 

Elizabeth (daughter of James, Sr. ) was born 
November 11, 1798. On December 4, 1823, she 
married Andrew Allison, son of Judge James 
Allison, and resided on the Allison homestead, in 
Chartiers township, where her husband died, Jan- 
uary 26, 1854, at the age of fifty-nine years. 
After the death of her husband, she removed to 
Canonsburg, where she resided for some years. 
Afterward she removed to the home of her daugh- 
ter, Henrietta, in Warren count}', Ohio, where she 
resided until her death, November 19,1878. They 
had issue: Mary, James, George, Rachel, Margaret, 
Elizabeth, Henrietta and Andrew, Jr. Of the 
family of Elizabeth, Mary, George and Margaret 
died in January, 1836. James (son of Elizabeth) 
was born April 16, 1826; he completed a classical 
course in Jefferson College, but died soon after- 
ward, on January 21, 1849. Rachel (daughter of 
Elizabeth) died, July 26, 1857, in early woman- 
hood. Elizabeth (daughter of Elizabeth) was born 
October 21, 1836; on March 29, 1855, she mar- 
ried Dr. John W. Martin, a physician of Can- 
onsburg, who afterward entered the mercantile 
business in which he has been engaged ever since; 
she died September 14, 1881; they had issue: 
James Allison (deceased), Charles Edward, John 
Clark, Ralph, and Mary (wife of William A. 
Dickson). Henrietta (daughter of Elizabeth) was 
born March 31, 1840; on May 3, 1865, she married 
Joseph W. Culbertson, and removed to Warren 
county, Ohio, where she still resides; they have 
issue: Mary (wife of John Harkrader), James Mar- 
tin (deceased) and Isabella. Andrew, Jr. (youngest 
of the family of Elizabeth) was born January 26. 
1845; he graduated in the classical course at Jeffer- 
son College in 1865; he completed a course in 
medicine in Jefferson Medical College, Philadel- 
phia, and removed to Westchester, in Butler Co., 
Ohio, where he was engaged in the practice of 
medicine until his death, September 26, 1871; he 
was unmarried. 

James, Jr. (son of James, Sr.) was born Novem- 
ber 28, 1800. He settled on the portion of the 
homestead, which he had inherited from his father, 
where he resided until his death September 27, 



1875. He left his inheritance to his son James, who 
still owns the property. James, son of James, Jr. , 
was born April 26, 1S35. On December 11, 1866 t 
he married Elizabeth McPeak, and for a time re- 
sided on the homestead. Some years ago he re- 
moved to Canonsburg, where he has resided ever 
since. They have no issue. 

Guyon Morrison, whose portrait appears in con- 
nection with this sketch of the Morrison family, 
and who is a son of James Morrison, Sr. , was born 
August 5, 1804. He attended Jefferson College 
for some time, but did not graduate. On May 23, 
1S33, he married Jane Johnston, daughter of 
Richard and Jane (Bradford) Johnston, and re- 
moved to Belmont county, Ohio, where for a time 
he was engaged in mercantile business. In ]s:!6 
he removed to the adjoining county of Harrison, 
and resided on a farm near Franklin until 1870. 
In that year he purchased from his brother John 
the homestead inheritance, in Chartiers township, 
Washington county. In the same year he returned 
to the home of his boyhood, where he resided until 
his death, December 11, 1876. The death of 
his wife occurred June 2, 1888, at the age of sev- 
enty seven years. They had issue: John. 

In a brief reference to the life of Guyon Mor- 
rison, it may be stated that from his youth he was a 
diligent student of science, history and literature. 
In regard to public improvements and public issues, 
his views were liberal and progressive. In accord 
with the history and traditions of his kindred, he 
was a Whig, and, later, a Republican. In his re- 
ligious belief, he was a strict constructionist. He 
had been reared under the ministry of Dr. John 
McMillan, who, during his long pastorate, had 
rigidly adhered to the use of the Scripture Psalms 
in the worship of the sanctuary. After his removal 
to Ohio, he became a member of the Associate Re- 
formed Church, and retained his connection also with 
its successor the United Presbyterian Church, until 
his death. He was chosen a ruling elder in the 
Associate Reformed Church of Franklin, and served 
in that capacity until his removal from that region. 
He was tolerant of the opinions and prejudices of 
his fellow-men. He died as he had lived, a consist- 
ent Christian. 

John, son of Guyon, was born November 18, 
1848. He completed a classical course at Mon- 
mouth College, at Monmouth, 111., where he grad- 
uated in 1869. In January, 1879, he became as- 
sociated with Rev. A. G. McCoy in the publication 
of the Christian Instructor, which they had pur- 
chased, and removed from Philadelphia to Chicago. 
He was engaged in this work for sixteen months, 
when he disposed of his interest in the publication 
and retired from the management. Afterward he 
was, for some time, engaged in mercantile business 
in Chicago. After disposing of this property, he 
entered upon the study of medicine. He completed 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



667 



the course at Rush Medical College, where, iu 
1887, he received the degree of Doctor of Medi- 
cine. Afterward he removed to Canonsburg, 
Penn., where he has since resided. He is a life 
member of the Western Pennsylvania Humane So- 
ciety, Historical Society and University Extension 
Society. He is still in possession of the Mor- 
rison homestead in Chartiers township. 

Mary Morrison (youngest of the family of James, 
Sr.) was born November 16, 1806. In 1829 she 
married Marshall McOall, and removed to Belmont 
county, Ohio. From there she removed to the ad- 
joining county of Harrison, where she resided 
until her death, September 17, 1849. Her husband 
married a second time, and removed to Wenona, 
Marshall Co., 111., where he resided until his death, 
September 29, 1873, at the age of sixty-eight years. 
They had issue : John A. , James M. , Mary Jane and 
Margaret. John A., eldest of the family of Mary, 
was born probably in 1830. He attended a course 
at Franklin College, New Athens, Ohio. He studied 
law at Cadiz, Ohio, where he was admitted to the 
bar. Soon afterward he married Margaret Hender- 
son, and removed to Wenona, 111., where he re- 
sided for a number of years. Afterward he removed 
to Kansas, where he has since resided. They have 
issue: Marshall, Elizabeth, Sarah, and perhaps 
others whose names are not known. James M. , son 
of Mary, was born probably in 1832. He accompa- 
nied his brother John on the removal of the latter to 
Wenona, 111. .where he has resided ever since. He 
is unmarried. Mary Jane, daughter of Mary, was 
born about 1835. About 1854 she married Leon- 
ard D. Rowley, and resided some years in Har- 
rison county, Ohio. Afterward she removed to 
Mendota, 111., where she resided until her death 
about 1876. Her husband, who survived her, re- 
moved to Akron, Ohio, where he has since resided. 
They had issue: Catherine (wife of Mr. McGall- 
iard, of Akron, Ohio) and John (who resides at the 
same place). Margaret, daughter of Mary, waB 
born about 1838. About 1858 she married Dr. 
Arter, of Carrollton, Ohio. After a residence of 
some years at that place, she removed to Canton, 
Ohio, where she has since resided. They have no 
issue. 

THOMAS H. RALSTON is a native of Brooke 
county, W. Va.. where his ancestors were 
among the earliest residents along King's 
creek. The first member of this well- 
known family to locate in that vicinity was 
Joseph Ralston, who was born and married in 
Scotland. He came to America priqr to the Revo- 
lution, and finally settled in Brooke county, W. 
Va. , where he took up a vast tract of land on 
King's creek. Indians were numerous then, and 
wild beasts roamed through the forest, making pi- 
oneer life extremely dangerous. The family of 



Joseph Ralston consisted of but two sons, Joseph 
and Samuel. They were frequently taken with the 
mother to Fort Pitt (where Pittsburgh now stands), 
while the father lived for months in his cabin in 
the wilderness, without a fire, lest the attention of 
the Indians should be attracted. Joseph Ralston 
and his wife passed their days on the farm, and in 
a good old age were laid to rest in Three Springs 
cemetery, Brooke county, W. Va. The land, which 
had then increased in value, was left to his two 
sons. Samuel (the younger son), was married to 
Martha Tucker, of Hanover township, who bore 
him four sons and eight daughters, all of whom 
lived to marry and have children. 

Joseph Ralston, eldest son of Joseph, was first 
married to Ann McCready, of Beaver county, who 
lived with her parents on Mill creek, now Hooks- 
town, Penn. They were early settlers in that sec- 
tion, and of Irish descent. To this union were 
born ten sons and one daughter. The youngest 
child, named McCready, died unmarried at the age 
of twenty-eight years, and the only daughter was 
married to Daniel Wilson; the others were also 
married. The mother died and was buried in 
Three Springs cemetery. For his second choice 
Joseph Ralston selected Sarah Greer, a native of 
Carroll county, Ohio, living near Harlem Springs. 
She borehim seven children, of whom one died in in- 
fancy, and another never married. The father 
lived to be about seveuty-two years of age, dying 
about 1835. The greater part of his life was 
passed in farming, and he built the first gristmill 
in that country. His property became very valua- 
ble, and the gristmill was owned and operated by 
his descendants of the two generations following. 
After a long: and useful life, he was laid to rest in 
Three Springs cemetery, where his parents ana 
wives were buried. 

Joseph Ralston was the oldest of the eleven 
children born to Joseph and Ann (McCready) 
Ralston. He was born March 5, 1791, on the old 
homestead in Brooke county, W. Va. When a 
young man he learned the miller's trade in his 
father's mill, and finally took charge of the busi- 
ness, which he conducted for many years. In 1817 
he married Lucinda P. Holmes, who was born 
March 7, 1795, east of the mountains. She was a 
daughter of Thomas and Nancy (McNeely) Holmes, 
both of whom were natives of County Donegal, 
Ireland. The McNeely family was an eminent one 
in Ireland, and the brothers of Nancy were all 
legislators there. Thomas Holmes was a shoe- 
maker, and in about 1789 came to America, locating 
temporarily near New York City. He removed 
farther west and settled in Brooke coiiuty, W. Va. , 
where he died at the age of ninety-six years. His 
wife died when over one hundred years old, in 
Guernsey county, Ohio, at the home of her son, 
Isaac Holmes. 



668 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



The children of Joseph and Lucinda P. (Holmes) 
Ralston were born as follows: Isaac, was killed 
when a young man, by a horse; Mary A., is the 
wife of J. H. Harper, of Burgettstown, Penn. ; 
Joseph, a miller, while taking a cargo of flour to 
New Orleans, contracted bilious fever in that city, 
died May 30, 1846; Thomas H. , whose sketch fol- 
lows; Eli, deceased at the age of two years; Car- 
oline. Mrs. Miller Shane, of Burgettstown, Penn.; 
and William, a school teacher, died January 1, 
18(51, at the age of twenty-eight years. Mr. Ral- 
ston passed his life on the old place, and followed 
milling. He was a soldier in the war of 1812, 
and voted with the Democratic party. • He and his 
wife were members of the Presbyterian Church at 
Three Springs, of which he was an elder for many 
years. In 1846, while on a trip to Buffalo, N. Y., 
with a cargo of flour, he was taken sick with bil- 
ious fever, and returning home, died July 18. 
L846, followed by his wife December 26, of the 
same year. They were buried in Three Springs 
cemetery, which now contains four generations of 
this name, who were at one time by far the most 
numerous family on King's creek. 

Thomas H. Ralston was born July 19, 1826, in 
Hancock county, W. Va., on the ancestral acres. 
In early life he learned the ci oper's trade, in which 
he became an expert. When his elder brother died, 
he took charge of his father's mill, in which busi- 
ness he continued many years. On April '26, 1859, 
he was married to Rebecca Graham, who was born 
January 17, 1S33, in Hancock county, W. Va., a 
daughter of Thomas and Honor Graham. Their 
union lias been blessed wit h the following children: 
Lucinda P. ( Mrs. James Work, of Florence), William 
S. (a farmer of Hanover township), George G. (at 
home), Anna K. (Mrs. S. F. Campbell, of Hanover 
township), and Jessie M. (at home). Mr. Ralston 
conducted the old mill until April 10, 1873, when 
he came to Hanover township. Washington county, 
locating on the "Moses McLaughlin'' place, where 
he has since resided. He is now following farm 
ing and stock raising, having made many improve- 
ments on the place, which are indicative of his 
progressive spirit. He owns several good farms, 
and is one of the leading men of Hanover town- 
ship. He, his wife and children are members of 
the Frankfort Presbyterian Church. 



RS. JEMIMA JACKMAN was born July 
30, I805,in East Pike Run township, Penn. 
She is the widow of Joshua Jackman, and 
daughter of Thomas and Sarah (Dixon) 
Bailey. Her parents were born in east- 
ern Pennsylvania, and came, when children, with 
their parents to Washington county, where they 
were afterward married. Mr. and Mrs. Bailey 
were the parents of the following children: Ann, 




John, Mary, Martha, Thomas, Ruth, Hannah, 
Isaac, Elizabeth, Henry and Jemima. Of this 
family the latter is the only one living. The 
father was a farmer and stock dealer, and died at 
the age of eighty years, the mother having been 
laid to rest at the age of sixty years. Both were 
members of the Quaker Church. On April 11. 
1835, Jemima Bailey was united in marriage with 
Joshua Jackman, son of William and Elizabeth 
(Conley) Jackman, who were natives of County 
Carlo w, Ireland. Mr. and Mrs. Jackman came to 
America many years ago, and settled on a large 
tract of laud in East Pike Run township, where 
their children were born and reared as follows: 
Bernard, William, Mary, Eliza, Joshua, John, 
Margaret, Nancy, and four who died in infancy. 

Joshua Jackman was born January 29, 1795, on 
the home place in East Pike Run township. He 
always resided on the farm, and in politics voted 
the Republican ticket. He died September 27, 
1^07, and his widow is living in the old house, 
which has been her home since 1839. The farm 
embraces 100 acres of well-cultivated land, in- 
cluding a good storehouse, barn and all modern 
improvements. Mrs. Jackman is now in her eighty- 
seventh year and bids fair to see her fourscore 
years and ten, being yet as active as many a woman 
of but sixty years, and still doing the greater part 
of her housework. She is a member of the Taylor 
M. E. Church, with which her husband was also 
identified. They had two daughters, namely: 
Sarah E., born February 11, 1840, who died De- 
cember 29, 1S45; and Mary M., born August 10, 
1841, died January 3, 1846. 




US. MARIA SPEER, oneofthe oldest and 
most highly esteemed residents of Peters 
township, Washington county, is the 
widow of James Speer, a son of James 
Speer, whose father, Robert Speer, came 
from Adams county, Penn., at a very early date, and 
first located in Washington county, but soon after 
moved with his family to New Concord, Mus- 
kingum Co., Ohio, where he died. 

James Speer, son of Robert, was born in Adams 
county, Penn., and when quite young, came east 
of the mountains with his father, and spent the 
greater part of his boyhood days near New Con- 
cord, Ohio. Id those days but few white settlers 
had penetrated the western forests of Ohio, and 
the Indians still held possession of the land. The 
Redmeu of that vicinity were for the most part 
friendly to the " Palefaces," and often paid visits 
to the Speer family, on which occasions the squaws 
would invariably leave their papooses outsides 
tightly strapped to a board. In the forest wilds, 
surrounded by Indians and savage beasts, James 
Speer grew to manhood, and was married to Miss 






fe^^-^ 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



671 



Catherine Latta. After their wedding the young 
couple moved to Washington county, Penn. , and 
settled on the farm in Peters township, where they 
lived until his death, November 14, 1849. Six 
children were born of their union, viz. : Deborah, 
Robert, Thomas L., James, Jane and Nancy, all of 
whom are 'now deceased. James Speer, Sr. , was a 
member of the Associate Reformed Church, of 
Cross Roads, and one of its organizers. In poli- 
ties he was a Whig. 

James Speer, son of James and Catherine Speer, 
was born December 10, 1810, on the farm in 
Peters township, Washington Co., Penn., where 
his widow is yet living. He was trained in the 
usual duties of agriculture, and passed his youth 
on the place. On February 2, 1839, he married 
Miss Maria Calahan, who was born October 4, 
1 S 1 4 , in Peters township, Washington Co., Penn., 
a daughter of the late Thomas Calahan, who was 
a son of Joseph Calahan, a native of Ireland. Her 
father was a carpenter. Her mother, died when 
she was but five years of age, and she went to 
live with John Rankin, a farmer of Washington 
county, Penn., where she remained until her mar- 
riage. Of the union of James and Maria Speer 
were born eight children, viz.: Mary (Mrs. Will- 
iam Boon), Kate, Eliza J. (deceased), a son deceased 
in infancy, Adeline (wife of George Scott, of Des 
Moines, Iowa), Blanche (Mrs. James Emery, of 
Washington county), an infant daughter (deceased), 
Anna Margaret (widow of William Paden, has one 
son, Lloyd H., and is now living with her mother, 
Maria Speer). The home farm contains 127 acres 
of excellent land, on which a test oil well is being 
put down, oil having already been found in paying 
quantities; and they are still drilling with the ex- 
pectation of finding more of the valuable lubricant. 
Mr. Speer was a Republican, and a member of the 
Uuited Presbyterian Church, of Mt. Prospect. He 
died April 29, 1878. 



FJRANK CRAVEN. This enterprising young 
business man has from early boyhood been 
identified with the interests of California, 
Penn. His elementary education was ob- 
tained in the public schools of this village, and 
he then attended the Southwestern State Nor- 
mal School, at California. After leaving school 
he was engaged in various pursuits near Cali- 
fornia, and served one year as mail clerk between 
Pittsburgh and Harrisburg, on the Pennsylvania 
Central Railroad. He then entered the employ of 
Morgan & Dixon, and soon afterward purchased 
a general store in partnership with L. T. Clay- 
baugh. One year later Mr. Claybaugh sold his in- 
terest to John Dixon. Later Mr. Dixon retired and 
John S. Beazell purchased his interest; the firm is 
now Craven & Beazell, extensive dealers in gro- 
ceries and general produce. 



Frank Craven married Myrtilla, daughter of 
Jonathan West, October 17, 1878. This lady's 
father was a son of Thomas West, and grandson of 
Jonathan West. The latter was born in Ireland, 
andcomingto America in youth, located permanent- 
ly on a farm in Washington county, Penn. He was 
an Old-line Democrat in politics, and in religion 
one of the founders of the "West" Protestant Epis- 
copal Church. His children were born as foHows: 
Jonathan, Robert, Thomas, Edward, Mary (wife 
of Robert Gregg), Ann (Mrs. Morris) and Jane 
(Mrs. Howden). Thomas West, sou of Jonathan, 
Sr., was born and reared in West Pike Run town- 
ship. In early life ho was married to Margaret 
Hopkins, who bore him three children, namely: 
Thomas, Catherine and Jonathan. The father 
followed agricultural pursuits, and lived but a few 
years after his marriage. Jonathan West, son of 
Thomas, was born in February, 1827, in West 
Pike Run township, Washington Co., Penn., 
receiving his early education in the neighboring 
schools. In ]sr>0 hi' was united in marriage with 
Melinda, daughter of Edward Gregg, who was 
born and reared in Washington county, Penn. 
Edward Gregg was married to Mary Maple, and 
their children were Mary J., wife of James Baker; 
Stephen; Melinda, wife of Jonathan West; Seth; 
Maria; John and Maple. Mr. Gregg was a pros 
perous farmer and stock raise]-. He voted with 
the Whig and Republican parties, and was a mem- 
ber of the Taylor M. E. Church, in which he offi- 
ciated as elder, class leader, and Sunday-school 
superintendent. He and his wife were buried in 
the Taylor Church cemetery. Mr. and Mrs. West 
resided on a farm in West Pike Run township un- 
til 1861, when they moved to Virginia, where he 
enlisted in Company B, Eighty second O. V. I. He 
was then sent to the army of the Potomac, and 
participated in numerous engagements. On July 
2, 1863, he was captured at the battle of Gettys- 
burg, and was first taken to Belle Isle, thence to 
Andersonville, where he died the following June. 
The children of this soldier were born as follows: 
.Mary E. (deceased), Margaret E. (wife of D. H. 
Lewis), Mary J. (married to Emerson Reed), Dora 
I. (wife of John S. Beazell), Myrtilla (married to 
Frank Craven) and Kate. 



THOMAS H. ACKLESON, an enterprising 
and prosperous farmer of Smith township, 
is a son of Thomas, and grandson of Thomas 
Ackleson, Sr. The last named was born, 
reared and married in Ireland, and coming 
to America soon afterward, located in the Chartiers 
Valley, Allegheny county, Penn., and reared the 
following children: Robert (born on the voyage 
across the ocean), John, James, Samuel, Thomas, 
Isabel and Mary, all of whom lived to an adult 



672 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



age. The father passed his life in agricultural 
pursuits, both he and his wife dying on the home 
farm. 

Thomas Ackleson was born in 1800, on the 
home farm in Allegheny county. He received a 
limited education, then learned the shoemaker's 
trade, which he followed in connection with agri- 
culture almost to the closeof his life. He married 
Letitia McCounell, daughter of ( Jeorge McConnell, 
a native of Ireland, who served in the war of the 
Revolution and in the war of 1812. She was born 
in Allegheny county in 1802. To her were born 
Mary Ann (who married Andrew Butler, who died 
two years after, leaving one daughter, Mary E., 
now Mrs. William Adams of Allegheny county. 
She nest married Bingham McKnight, and to 
them one sou was born —Alexander now of Den- 
ver, Colo. He died in I860), Surah J. (unmarried, 
resides with her brother, Thomas H.), Isabel and 
Elizabeth (unmarried), Martha (deceased wife of 
John Woodburn), Thomas E. (of whom further 
mention is made), David McConnell (enlisted in 
Company I, First P. V. C. . killed near Belle 
Plains) and Margaret (widow of George M. Pyle). 

Mr. Ackleson followed farming in Allegheny 
county for some time after his marriage, then 
came to Washington county, locating on a farm 
near Hill's Station, Cecil township, and his last 
days were passed on a farm in Smith township. 
He was a Democrat before the war, afterward be- 
coming a Republican; in private life as well as in 
public, he won the esteem of all. In religious 
connection he was a member of the U. P. Church. 
He died in 18S1, having been preceded by his 
wife in 1856. 

Thomas H. Ackleson was born February 25, 
1839, in Cecil township, this county, and in early 
life began to assist in the duties of the farm, being 
educated in the neighboring district schools. He 
married Margaret Scott December 25, 1867, who 
was born in IS Id, daughter of Finley Scott, of 
Smith township, this county, and they have had 
the following children: David M. (deceased at the 
age of nine years) and Finley S., Thomas L., Ida 
M.. Chessie E., Samuel S., Emma M. , John H. , 
Annie B. , Lizzie and Jennie Viola, all living 
at home. Thomas H. and Margaret (Scott) 
Ackleson first settled on a farm near Bavington, 
Smith township, and for several years sold agri- 
cultural implements at Burgettstown, this county. 
Afterward selling out, he moved to a place near 
Bulger's Station, and shipped milk to Pittsburgh. 
In 1887 he moved. upon the well-improved farm he 
now occupies, situate. 1 about one mile and a half 
northwest of Burgettstown, Smith township, where 
he is very extensively engaged in the shipping 
business, being the leading dairyman in the vicin- 
ity. He is decidedly practical and progressive in 



his work, and has been president of the first 
creamery and cheese factory in Washington 
county, located at Bulger's Station, and has 
served as school director different terms, and other 
township offices. He has always been a leader in 
progressive movements, and identities himself with 
everything tending to aid or improve his special 
work. He and his esteemed wife are members of 
the United Presbyterian Church at Burgettstown. 
and politically he is an adviser and counselor in 
the Republican party. 



[ACOB B. PHILLIS. The Phillis family 
were among the earliest residents of Smith 



desperation they de- 
see upon what kind of 
After observation thev 



I 

ft I township. Washington county. On 'May Id 
^^ 1776, Joseph Phillis received the first gen 
nine land title which was issued in Smith 
township. He was born in Ireland, about 1744, 
and was married in that country to Elizabeth Lit- 
tle. In 177o became to America, locating in this 
county, near the present site of McDonald village. 
He raised the first crop of corn in that, part of the 
county, which crop yielded fifty bushels to the 
acre, then considered a very large average. Joseph 
Phillis was a soldier in the Revolutionary war, and 
after its close located on a part of the Hoagland 
and Crawford tract in Smith township, which has 
since been in the possession of the Phillis family, 
a portion of the old farm being now owned 
by the widow of Andrew Phillis. Before the 
first crops were raised, the family came near 
starving, and driven to 
cided to watch a cow and 
vegetation she subsisted, 
made "greens" the food of the family, and bo 
managed to exist until the grain was ripened to 
replenish the empty larder. Indians were numer- 
ous and hostile in those earl}' days, and wild ani- 
mals were plenty. The home of these early pioneers 
was known as the " Dunmore War tract,'' and 
under careful cultivation the wild land soon as- 
sumed an air of comfort and civilization, becoming 
in time a valuable piece of property. Joseph Phillis 
died in 1S30, at an advanced age, his wife having 
"gone before" in 1827. leaving the following chil- 
dren: John (who died in Guernsey county. Ohio, 
was the father of sixteen children), James (deceased 
in the lumber regions of Pennsylvania), Joseph 
(passed the latter years of his life in Columbiana 
county, Ohio), Charles (deceased in Ohio), Jacob 
(mentioned farther on), William (deceased in 
youth), Thomas (passed his entire life in Smith 
(iwnship), Nancy (wife of David Alexander, a 
farmer of Smith township), Elizabeth (married to 
Thomas Cherry, of Mt. Pleasant township), Jane 
(wife of Joseph Walker) and Catharine (Mrs. 
Gilbert Hnllick, of Smith township). 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



673 



Jacob Phillia was born April 8, 17f)2, and reared 
ou the home farm in Smith township, receiving a 
subscription-school education. Ann 15. Phillis, 
wife of Jacob Phillis, born July 13, 17'. IS, was a 
daughter of Robert Bruce. She bore him children 
as follows: Andrew (deceased), Joseph (deceased 
farmer of Smith township), Elizabeth (deceased 
wife of William Hammond), Nancy (wife of Thomas 
Pyles, of Guernsey county, Ohio), John (deceased 
at Cairo, 111.), Mary (wife of Ephraim Wallower, 
of Ohio, now living in Des Moines, Iowa), Mar 
garet (deceased wife of William Vance, Elizabeth- 
town, Ky.), Jacob (deceased in early manhood), 
Jane (deceased wife of Isaac James), and Ellen 
(deceased wife of Talbert Shipley). After his 
marriage Mr. Phillis made a permanent home on 
a part of the original farm, and successfully pur- 
sued agriculture. He died in 1847, and his widow 
passed away December 17, 1871. 

Andrew Phillis, son of Jacob and Ann (Bruce) 
Phillis, was born February 5, 1818, on the old 
homestead in Smith township, where bis boyhood 
days were passed, receiving his education at the 
country schools. In 1857 he was united in mar- 
riage with Mary M. Leech, who was born in 1828, 
daughter of James Leech, Esq., of Smith township. 
This wife died August 1, 1864, having borne him 
two children: James P. (deceased at the age of 
four years), and Jacob B. (whose name opens this 
sketch). The mother was laid to rest in the 
United Presbyterian cemetery at Burgettstown. 
On August 28, 1807, Andrew Phillis married, for 
his second wife, Mary A. Logan, who was born 
March 0, 1834, in Hancock county, W. Va., daugh- 
ter of William Logan, a native of Ireland. The 
children born to the union of Andrew and Mary 
(Logan) Phillis were as follows: Margaret S. , 
John L., Lizzie May, Annie M. and Ella J., all of 
whom are living at home. Andrew Phillis always 
resided on the home farm, where he died April 1 8, 
1890. He was formerly a Whig, then united with 
the Republican party. In religion he was con- 
nected with the United Presbyterian Church at 
Burgettstown, this county. He was a successful 
and respected farmer, and his widow and children 
have managed the place since his death. 



JOHN NEELY was but an infant when his 
parents came to Washington county, Penu. 
His father, John Neely, was born in 1798 in 
County Tyrone, Ireland, being a weaver by 
trade. In early life the latter was married 
to Elizabeth Finton, a native of County Tyrone, 
Ireland, daughter of Robert Finton. In 1841 this 
couple sailed from Londonderry, Ireland, on the 
vessel "North America," commanded by Capt. 
William Baker. They landed at Philadelphia, 
Penn., thence pushing westward, and crossing the 



Alleghany mountains on the old inclined planes, 
located in Hanover township, this county, where 
they began farming. They were the parents of 
three children, all of whom were born in Ireland, 
viz.: Samuel M. and Catherine, living in Hanover 
township at very advanced ages, and John. The 
father died in 1884, having been preceded to the 
grave by his wife. 

John Neely, son of John and Elizabeth Neely, 
was born February, 20, 1840, in Cooley Parish. 
County Tyrone, Ireland, and was reared on the 
farm in Pennsylvania, also attending the subscrip 
tion schools of bis adopted State. On January 21, 
L868, he wooed and won Clarissa A. Hart, of 
Tuscarawas county, Ohio. She was born in Oc 
tober, 1844, and was a daughter of Leonard Hart. 
a native of eastern Pennsylvania, who waH an early 
settler of Ohio. The children of John and Clarissa 
Neely were as follows: George P., Margaret E., 
John L., Clarissa J., Stewart E., Catherine A., 
Emma I., Samuel M. , Clarence H. , Robert S., and 
Ray, of whom Stewart E. , Catherine A., and Ray are 
deceased. Mr. and Mis. Neely resided in Tuscar 
awas county, Ohio, for sixteen years after their 
marriage, and in 1884 came to Washington county, 
Penn., locating in Hanover township on the "old 
Fullerton farm," where they have since lived. 
Mr. Neely is a farmer and stock raiser, and was 
among the first to conceive the idea of a creamery 
in his neighborhood. He took an active part in 
organizing a stock company for the operation of 
the proposed industry, which unfortunately failed 
to materialize, resulting in financial loss to Mr. 
Neely. Politically he is a Democrat, and in re- 
ligions faith both he and his estimable wife are 
members of the Presbyterian Church. 

Samuel Neely was married in 1875 to a Miss 
Maria Dixon, of Clinton, Washington county. 
They have three children: John D., James S. 
and Catherine B. 



JOHN IAMES MARTIN, one of the most pro 
gressive citizens of West Bethlehem town- 
ship, was born February 28, 1828, on the 
farm of his father, in that township. 

He is a grandson of James Martin, a na- 
tive of New Jersey, who emigrated to Washington 
county in the latter part of the last century, 
settling upon the tract in West Bethlehem town- 
ship, part of which his grandson still owns. Here 
he toiled until death called him, at an advanced 
age. He was a blacksmith, and made many of the 
hinges, nails, etc., used on his buildings. His 
education was received at the subscription schools. 
Joseph Martin, father of John lames Martin, was 
born on the old homestead in 1784, and passed his 
boyhood in attending the common schools, and 
working on the farm. By taking advantage of 



674 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



every opportunity, he succeeded in obtaining an 
education superior to that of many of his associates. 
In 1822 he married Nancy lames, daughter of John 
lames, who for many years conducted a milling 
business in Amwell township, this county. To this 
union were born the following children: Morgan, 
a prominent farmer of Amwell township; Elizabeth. 
who died in infancy; John lames, subject of this 
sketch; Ann, the wife of Andrew Van Dyke, of 
Amwell township; Sarah, wife of Neal Zollars, of 
East Bethlehem township, and Joseph, who de- 
parted this life in 1852, aged twenty-two years. 

John lames Martin passed his young days upon 
the farm, and received a fair education in the 
schools of the period. In 1852 he married Eliz- 
abeth Barr, daughter of Samuel Barr, of West 
Bethlehem township, and to them were born the 
following children: Joseph, Sarah, Jackson, 
Martha. Samuel and Clarion, all of whom are liv- 
ing except Joseph, who died in 1872 at the age of 
twenty one years. Mr. Martin was a Democrat, and 
one of the counselors of his party, although by no 
means a politician in the general sense of the 
term. He and his family are members of the 
Winnett Chapel Methodist Church, Mrs. Martin 
being one of the most active and valued members. 
The farm of Mr. Martin consists of about 155 acres 
of land, all in a high state of cultivation. 



FHILO REYNOLDS, an esteemed and pros- 
perous farmer of Amwell township, is a 
grandson of Benedict Reynolds, who came 
from New Jersey and settled in South Stra- 
bane township on a farm, about six miles 
southeast of Washington borough. The following 
are the names of his children: Richard. Henry, 
Zachariah, Lloyd, Polly, Susan and Sally. Mr. 
Reynolds was a successful business man, owning 
several nice farms, and of these he gave one to 
each of his sons before he died. 

Lloyd Reynolds was born in South Strabane 
township, Washington Co., Peun.. May It', 17U4, 
and lived at home until some time after his mar- 
riage. On March 23, 1826, he was united in mar- 
riage with Sarah Redd, who was born June 29, 
1805, and to this union were born children as fol- 
lows: Louisa, born March 28, 1827; Silas M. 
Crispin (deceased); Philo, born October 30, 1828; 
Lucretia (Mrs. McCherry). born July 31, 1830; 
Alfred (deceased), born July 11, 1832, and An 
drew Jackson. Mr. Reynolds died in about 1.836. 
Philo Reynolds, son of Lloyd and Sarah (Redd) 
Reynolds, was born in South Strabane township, 
Washington county, and when ten years old was 
taken by his mother to live on his grandfather 
Redd' s farm. He attended the common schools a 
short time, then went to live with James Wright. 
At the age of sixteen he learned the blacksmith's 



trade of John Morrow, having lived with him four 
years, receiving $25 per year, and at the end of the 
four years had $42 coming to him. When twenty 
years of age he began business for himself by 
opening a shop near James Wright's place. On 
March 17, 1852. Mr. Reynolds was married to 
Rebecca Wright, who was born June 9, 1825. and 
they have had three children: James E., a lumber 
dealer in Washington; Marguerite Jane, who died 
at the age of seventeen, and Sarah Bell (Mrs. 
Paul). Mr. Reynolds has followed his trade all his 
life, and by dint of thrift and enterprise, has ac- 
cumulated a good property: in 1872 he purchased 
his present home, as fine a farm as can be found 
in the township. In politics he is a Democrat, 
but believes in voting independently of any party 
or politician, when occasion so demands. In relig- 
ious connection he was formerly a member of 
the Christian Church, but is not connected with 
any religious body at present. 




ILLIAM SMITH. About the year 1785 
^ \J K° ljt ' rt Smith came from east of the 
mountains and located in Bethel town- 
ship, near Bethel church, in Allegheny 
county, Penn., and followed agricultural 
pursuits, and the original farm is now owned by 
his grandson, John Smith. In 1790 he married 
Jean, daughter of Daniel Moore, and of this union 
the following children were born: Daniel (who 
died in Nebraska); Jennie (deceased wife of Robert 
Cooly, of Beaver county, Penn.); Mary Ann (de- 
ceased wife of Henry Keifer, of Beaver county, 
Penn.); Elizabeth (wife of Robert Bryarly, of 
Beaver county, Penn.); Agnes (deceased wife of 
Jacob Keifer, of Beaver county, Penn.); Robert 
(deceased in Iowa); Polly (wife of John Lesnette, 
living near Bridgeville, Allegheny Co., Penn. l: 
Margaret (decease! wife of James Orr, of Holmes 
county, Ohio); William (subject of this sketch), and 
•John (who died in Allegheny county, Penn.). The 
father of this family died in 18 — , aged eighty- 
three years, the mother in 1863, aged ninety-one, 
and they are buried in Bethel cemetery. 

William Smith was born August 12, 1812, in 
Bethel township. Allegheny Co., Penn., and re- 
ceived his education in the common schools, the 
principal books in use at the time being the United 
States Speller and Western Calculator. On April 
1 1'.. IS40, he was married to Sarah H, daughter 
of George and Jean Ciumiugham, who came from 
Scotland in 1802. To Mr. and Mrs. Smith eleven 
children were born, seven of whom were deceased 
in youth: those yet living are George C. (of Castle 
Shannon, Penn.); Adaline J. (wife of Alexander 
Bailey, of Xenia, Ohio); Daniel W. (of Bulger, 
Penn.) and Anna B. (wife of S. D. Jones, of Mount 
Pleasant township). Mr. Smith resided in Bethel 





'MTV 




WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



677 



township until 1846, when he moved to Baldwin 
township, same county, and there resided until 
1872, when he moved to Bulger, Washington 
county, and retired from active business. 

When Mr. and Mrs. Smith went into house- 
keeping he had but $2.50 to provide for himself 
and wife. He was a regular attendant at the 
Pittsburgh markets, and one article in demand at 
that time was cut straw, which he carried to mar- 
ket on horseback (tied on with ropes), and sold at 
12J cents a sack: he has sold butter at 6 cents per 
pound; has packed oats to Pittsburgh on horse- 
back, and sold them at 12 J cents per bushel. With 
these prices obtained, he bought and paid for land. 

On April 16, 1890, Mr. and Mrs. Smith cele- 
brated the fiftieth anniversary of their marriage. 
Of the Smith and Cunningham families represented 
in the union of this couple, there were twenty-two 
children, all of whom were married and raised 
families, seven of whom celebrated golden wed- 
dings. Of the ten children of Robert Smith they 
lived to an average age of seventy five years. 

Daniel W. Smith, son of William Smith, was 
born September 5, 1852, in Baldwin township, 

Allegheny Co., Penn., passing his boy] 1 days 

on the farm, and receiving a common-school edu- 
cation. In 1872 he came with his parents to 
Washington county, and on August 26, 1880, was 
united in marriage with Alice J. Russell, who was 
born December 8, 1855, daughter of J. S. Russell, 
of Smith township, this county. The following 
children were born to them: Mary V., Clara B., 
Sarah C. , Agnes J., William and John R. Daniel 
W. and Alice J. Smith first located on a part of his 
father's farm in Smith township, and upon the 
death of the latter took charge of the home place, 
where he is now living. In connection with farm- 
ing he raises stock and manages a dairy. In poli- 
tics he is a Republican, and in religion he and wife 
are members of the Presbyterian Church at Candor. 



l\ JlfRS. ELIZA C. ALLEN. George W. Allen 
\/| (deceased agriculturist) was born June 2, 
\XI I 1818, in Fayette county,Penn., on a farm 
I -* two and one-half miles from Coonellsville. 
v He was a son of Josiah and Rebecca Al- 

len, who were natives of Fayette county, Penn., 
and came to Washington county in 1834, settling 
permanently in Carroll township. 

On February 26, 1840, George W. Allen was 
united in marriage with Eliza O, daughter of 
Samuel, and granddaughter of Walter Davis. The 
grandfather died in Franklin county, Penn., and 
his son Samuel was born March 7, 1786, on the 
home place in that county. When a young man, 
Samuel Davis came to Washington county, and lo- 
cating on Chartiers creek, became prominently con- 
nected with the earliest history of Somerset town- 
ship. He was married to Mary, daughter of Isaac 



Vance, and she bore him four children, none of 
whom are living. The mother died June 1, 1820 r 
and for his second wife, Mr. Davis selected Mary, 
daughter of Isaac and Catherine Teeple. Two 
children were born to this marriage, namely: Sam- 
uel M. , living in California, Penn., and Eliza C. 
(Mrs. Allen), whose name opens this sketch. The 
mother died April 23, 1824, and his third choice^ 
was Rhoda Falconer. They had six children. Of 
these, one daughter is living, viz., Emily Maria 
Taylor, living at Brownsville, Penn. Mr. Davis 
was a member of the Pigeon Creek Presbyterian 
Church, and in political opinion was a Democrat. 
He passed away October 16, 1836, and was laid to 
rest beside his kiudred in the Pigeon Creek ceme 
tery. 

To the union of George W. and Eliza C. (Davis) 
Allen, the following children were born: Mary 
Lucinda (wife of Lyman Jackson, a prominent 
railroad official in Allegheny City ), born September 
1, 1841; Emma R., born October 25, 1843; Marl ha 
T, born December 4, 1845; Elma L. (deceased 
March 6, 1S54. interred in Round Hill cemetery, 
Allegheny county), born April 24, 1S48; Edwin 
Benton (deceased August 20, 1890, interred in 
Knoxville cemetery, a prominent business man of 
Knoxville, Iowa), born October 5, 1850; Edith F. 
(deceased June 9, 1853, interred in Round Hill 
cemetery, Allegheny county), born January 24, 
1 853; Clarence M. (a merchant living at Charleroi, 
Penn.), born May 6, 1854; Milton J., born October 
21, 1856, died October 25, 1888; Ella S. (wife of 
Samuel Swabe, a prosperous farmer of Fallowtield 
township), born February 16, 1859; Myrtilla F., 
born July 24, 1861; George B. Mc. (a carpenter of 
Charleroi), born October 8, 1863, and Addison F. 
(living on the homestead), born May 24, 1867. At 
the time of his marriage Mr. Allen possessed little 
property, but by the assistance of his wife, coupled 
with his own untiring energy, he accumulated a 
competence, and finally became the owner of 275 
acres of land. In his political opinion he was 
a Democrat, and in religion a member of the 
Presbyterian Church at Monongahela City. He 
was interested in all movements tending to advance 
Washington county, and was especially devoted 
to educational progress. He died February 19, 
1879, was interred in Monongahela cemetery. His 
widow, an agreeable and popular lady, is yet liv- 
ing on the place. She has in her possession a diary 
of her husband, containing the incidents of his 
life, from the date of his marriage until his death. 



fl( NDREW J. PEESE is a representative of 
1/ \\ one of the oldest families of Washington 
lp^\ county. His great-grandfather, Nicholas 
J) Peese, emigrated from Germany with an 

uncle when but twelve years of age. He af- 
terward married, and located in Cauiguagig, east of 



678 



WASHING TON CO UN T } r , 



the mountains. Three children were there born to 
thein: Mary, Andrew and George. In 1769 he 
made an exploring trip on foot to western Penn- 
sylvania, and took possession of 400 acres of land 
in North Strabane township, Washington county. 
He then returned to his family, and placing their 
household goods on one horse, with the youngest 
child perched on top of the load, the rest of the 
family journeyed on foot. They finally arrived 
at their new home, and a small log hut was erect- 
ed in which they passed the winter near the pres- 
ent home of John M. Berry. Only two other set 
tiers were then in the township, and in their 
pioneer home the four younger children were born: 
Nicholas, Catherine, Betsey and Susan. Of these 
children Nicholas died in youth. Mr. Peese was 
six feet and one inch in height, well formed, and 
possessed great powers of physical endurance. He 
died at the age of one hundred and five years, bis 
wife at the age of ninety years. 

George Peese, the second son of Nicholas, was 
four years of age when the family settled in Wash 
ingt-on county, and was the hero of the horseback 
ride above mentioned. He grew to manhood, and 
was married to Lydia, daughter of John Vaughn, 
a native of New Jersey. The children born to this 
union were Polly, Andrew, Rebecca, Zaeharias, 
John, Nicholas, George, Joseph, James, Eliza, 
Polly, Lydia, and two daughters who died in in- 
fancy. Polly was burned to death in childhood; 
Joseph died at the age of thirty years, and James 
died when twenty-five years old. The other chil- 
dren married, settled in Washington county, and 
all are now deceased excepting Zaeharias, John 
and George. Mr. Peese died March 1, 1849, and 
■was followed by his wife in 1865. 

Zaeharias Peese was born in the house which is 
now the home of John M. Berry. He lived at 
home until twenty years of age, receiving a limited 
education, and assisted his father in transport- 
ing the farm produce to Pittsburgh, making the 
journey by wagons through miles of unbroken 
forest. When Zaeharias was twenty-one years of 
age his father traded farms with his uncle, Andrew 
Peese, and received in the bargain a saw and grist 
mill, of which Zaeharias took charge and operated 
fourteen years. On December 27, 1820, Mr. 
Peese was united in marriage with Hannah, 
daughter of Andrew and Polly Peese, and to this 
union came the following children: William, bom 
October 13, 1821; Joseph, born August 21, 1823; 
Andrew J., born July 4, 1824; Mary (Mrs. Jacob 
Anthony), born May 1, 1827; Lydia, (Mrs. Zaeh- 
arias Peese), born July 24, 1830; Elizabeth, born 
June 5, 1833 (died March 11, 1841): George, born 
April 27, 1835 (died May 3. 1S35); Hannah Jane, 
born May 20, 1839 (died May 16, 1841), and 
Phoebe, born April 7, 1811 (died October 30, 1841). 
Mrs. Peese died October 4, 1846, and on January 



13, 1848, Mr. Peese was married to Jane Jackson, 
a native of Lancaster county, Penn. , and a con- 
nection of Andrew Jackson. About 1825 Mr. 
Peese bought and prepared to move upon a farm 
in Ohio, but yielding to the request of his father, 
sold it, and settled on the place in North Stra- 
bane township where his son William isnow living. 
He then bought the farm now owned by our sub- 
ject. Mr. Peese has always been a Democrat, and 
has filled several township offices. He joined the 
Presbyteriau Church at the age of eighteen years, 
and was an elder and member of the Pigeon Creek 
Church for many years. 

Andrew J. Peese was born and reared in North 
Strabane township, on the home farm where he is 
now living, and received his education in an old- 
time log schoolhouse. On September 27, 1852, 
he was married to Julia A. Dickson, who was born 
September 15, 1822, in Peters township, Allegheny 
Co., Penn. Her parents were both natives of 
Pennsylvania, the father born in 1802, in Wash- 
ington county, and the mother in 1805, in Lancas- 
ter county. They were married in this county, 
and seven children were born to them, all of whom 
married and had children. They were as follows: 
Julia A. (now living); Isaac (now living in Iowa; 
has been twice married and has had five children, 
three of whom are now living; he is a member of 
the Presbyterian Church; his wife is an active 
worker in the W. C. T. U. ); John (married and 
has two children; his wife is now deceased, and he 
is now living in his native county, near Library); 
Henry (married and living in the State of Califor- 
nia, where he is engaged in the mining business; 
he enlisted in the Union army, in an infantry reg- 
iment, during the Civil war, and being wounded 
in the battle of Spottsylvania, was discharged; he 
married Miss Mary French, now living, and is con- 
nected with several prominent families in the 
Mouongahela region); Elizabeth (widow of Nelson 
Phillips; she had eight children: William, Sarah, 
Nancy. Estelle, Charles, Maggie, Bell and Jasper, 
of whom Sarah is now dead); Sarah (was twice 
married, first time to James Brown, by which 
union there were three children: George, Lizzie 
and John, the last named being deceased; her 
second husband is Isaac Lindley, by whom she has 
had six children, all yet living except one); Rebec- 
ca (married .some time in the "fifties" to Jesse 
Canady, of Lancaster county, Penn., and one 
daughter was born to them, Ulalia, married and 
yet living; Mr. Canady served a period in the 
Senate of Pennsylvania. Mrs. Rebecca Canady is 
deceased). The father died some time during " the 
seventies,'' a member of Baptist Church. Mrs. 
Dickson, who was a member of the Christian 
Church, died in 1S77. 

To the union of Andrew J. and Julia A. (Dick- 
son) Peese three children have been born, namely: 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



679 



Mason Z., born April 20, 1858; Ida E., born April 
6, 1S60, and John D., born May 3, 1863. Of 
these children, Ida E.was, on January 2, 1881, mar- 
ried to John Rasel, a farmer of Amwell township, 
Washington county, aud to their union two sons 
have been born: Ray and Harry (Mr. Rasel is act- 
ively engaged in the work aud success of district- 
school education). In 1890 John D. was united in 
marriage with Agnes Dunn, who has borne him 
two children: Nellie M. and Julia Agnes. Mr. 
Andrew J. Peese owns and resides on the old 
homestead. In politics he was a Democrat for 
many years, but of late has been identified with 
the Prohibition party. He and his wife are mem- 
bers of the Christian Church. 



HENRY L. STUDA is one of the oldest, 
most successful and highly esteemed farm- 
ers of Cross Creek township. He is a son 
- 1 of Charles and grandson of Louis Studa. 
r The latter ancestor was born in Hanover, 

Germany, in 1757, and was a miller by trade. He 
there married Idolla Sagulf, a daughter of a lead- 
ing attorney, and they died in their native land 
at advanced age, leaving four children, namely: 
Hannah, Henry, Charles and Lena. Of these 
Hannah was born in Hanover in 1787, and iu 1817 
married Christopher Fisher, who was by trade a 
carpenter, of Shunhogen, aud resided there with 
his wife until death removed them at an advanced 
age; their five children were Charles, William, Au- 
gust, Henry and Christopher. Henry, brother of 
Hannah, was born in Hanover in 1789, and mar- 
ried Caroline Henna, daughter of the burgess of 
Shunhogen; he was a miller by trade; his four 
children were Charles, Henry, Millicina and Han- 
nah. Charles, another brother of Hannah, was, 
like Henry, a native of Hanover and a miller by 
trade. He married Millicina Steingreiver, whose 
father was the hotel-keeper of Shunhogen; their 
children were Henry L. and Lena. This Charles 
Studa received a good education, and served sev- 
eral years in the wars of Napoleon. He partici- 
pated in the memorable battle of Waterloo, and 
received a silver medal as an acknowledgment 
of gallant conduct on that occasion. This valua- 
ble relic is yet in the possession of his son Henry 
L. At one time Charles Studa, with others, was 
taken prisoner and sentenced to be shot, but was 
saved by the arrival of Russian soldiers, who capt- 
ured the prison but a few hours previous to the 
time appointed for the execution. After the bat- 
tle of Waterloo, the young soldier decided to seek 
a fortune in the New World. Lena, the youngest 
child of Louis and Idolla Studa, born in 1794, 
married Henry Alburn, a farmer, and bore him 
three children-Henry, Charles and Christopher; 
Louis Studa, his wife and the four children died 
at Shunhogen, each attaining an advanced age. 



Charles, the son of Henry and grandson of Louis 
Studa, was born at Shunhogen in 1S16, was a 
miller by trade, and was married to Millicina Stein- 
greiver, whose father also was a farmer by occu- 
pation. They remain in their native land. Henry, 
the son of Henry and grandson of Louis Studa, 
was born at Shunhogen in 1818, was a farmer by 
occupation, and was married to Luweza Cook, 
whose father also was a farmer; they remain in 
their native land. Millicina, thedaughter of Henry 
and granddaughter of Louis Studa, was born at 
Shunhogen in 1820, and was married February 20, 
1S48, to Henry L. Studa, who was a farmer by oc- 
cupation; soon after their marriage they set sail 
for America, aud landed in Washington county, 
Penn., where they have been residing ever since. 
Hannah, the daughter of Henry and granddaugh- 
ter of Louis Studa, was born at Shunhogen in 1822, 
and was married to William Didritch, who was an 
officer in the military troops; they remain in 
their native laud, having three children, namely: 
Richard, Emma and Menny. 

Henry L., the son of Charles and grandson of 
Louis Studa, was born April 14, 1821, in Hanover. 
His father was a miller by trade, and was the pos- 
sessor of both an oil and a grist mill, which were 
located in Capingburg, Germany; but as a panic 
set in in 1825 and lasted for several years, he and 
several of his neighbors became discouraged, and 
came to the conclusion they would proceed to a 
better country. He had been corresponding with 
an acquaintance of his in Jamaica, who informed 
him of some landlord there who was the possessor 
of a plantation of 2,000 acres, and was desirous of 
having it inhabited by Germans, just for the pur- 
pose of raising ginger and working sugar. So in 
the year 1833 Charles Studa and several of his 
neighbors set sail for Jamaica, where he lived for 
seven years; but as the climate was so much warmer 
than that of his native land they were troubled 
with a great deal of sickness, and lost their daugh- 
ter Lena. In 1840 they set sail for America, 
landing in New York, where they resided for eight 
mouths, and then moved to Washington county, 
Penn., where his son Henry L. supported the fam- 
ily by working by the month and day for six years. 
In 1S47 he returned to his native land to transact 
some business concerning his grandmother's es- 
tate, and, remaining there eight months, was mar- 
ried to Millicina Studa, a full cousin. In 184N he 
returned to America with his young wife, and 
farmed on the shares for nine years. Putting his 
money at interest, he was enabled, in 1856, to pur- 
chase 133 acres, and some time later bought the 
balance of the present farm of 222 acres, the best 
land in Cross Creek township. Mr. and Mrs. Studa 
have four children, namely: John, David, Alfred 
and Albert (twins). Politically Henry L. Studa is 
a stanch worker in the Democratic party. He is a 



CM I 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



member of the German Lutheran Church at Mt. 
Prospect, also supporting the Mount Prospect 
Presbyterian Church in that village, which his chil- 
dren attend. 



DW. MYERS, one of the leading young Re- 
\ publicans of West Bethlehem township, 
I was born October 13, 1846, in that towu- 
ship. He is a grandson of John Myers, 
who came from Germany to America at a very 
early day. and located in West Bethlehem town 
ship, on Daniel's run; there he purchased a farm 
and passed the remainder of his life in agricultural 
pursuits. He married Elizabeth Conkle, and the 
following children were born to them: Mrs. John 
Let.herman, Mrs. Speh, Mrs. Amos Walton. Mrs. 
John Hufford, Mrs. Thornton Young, John, Jacob, 
Henry and Stephen. In his political views Mr. 
Myers was a Whig; he and his family were all 
identified with the Lutheran Church. 

Stephen Myers, father of subject, was born on 
the paternal farm, March 11, 1805. His early 
years were spent at home and in attendance of the 
common schools, where he acquired a good edu- 
cation. After leaving school he followed the 
drover business a few years, and in 1834 was mar- 
ried to Lucia Jenkins, a daughter of Nathaniel 
Jenkins, who lived in West Pike Run township, 
this county. Soon after his marriage Mr. Myers 
began business for himself, and in 1852 moved 
upon the farm of 127 acres which is now the prop- 
erty of his son Wilson. He was the father of five 
children: Mrs. S. C. Bane, Mrs. John Yorty, Eliza- 
beth C, D. W., and Edwin (deceased October 2, 
1845). Mr. Myers was a successful business man, 
and was much interested in all matters pertaining 
to progress in education. He was a Republican, 
and his colleagues evinced their appreciation of 
his worth by electing him to the offices of assessor 
and school director, which positions he held with 
credit for many years. Both he and his family 
were members of the United Presbyterian Church. 
Mr. Myers passed from earth December U, 1875, 
and was followed by his faithful wife September 
17. 1882. 

D. W. Myers, sou of Stephen and Lucia, has 
spent his entire life upon the farm where he now 
resides, having moved there with his parents when 
but six years of age. He secured the foundation 
of a good education at the common schools, after- 
ward attending the Pleasant Valley Academy, 
which was followed by a year at Washington and 
Jefferson College. He has well profited by these 
advantages, and is now a well-read, intelligent man, 
one of the leaders in his county. After his edu- 
cation was completed, Mr. Myers began to work 
upon the home farm. On November 27, 1873, he 
was united in marriage with Elizabeth. daughter of 



J. D. Roberts, of Hillsboro, Washington Co., Peun. 
They have had four children: Nellie, born June 21, 
1875, died September 17. 1875; Leona Irene, 
born February 4, 1877; Albert Emerson, born Feb- 
ruary 21, 1883; and Reno, born October IT,. IS'.tO, 
died December 1, 1890. Mr. Myers is a sturdy 
advocate of Republican principles. He has held 
the office of school director and assistant assessor 
of his township; in 1889 he was elected one of the 
directors of the poor for Washington county, for 
a term of three years, and re-elected in 1892. 
He has always taken an active part in all matters 
of interest to the county, and with his family is a 
member of the U. P. Church of Pigeon Creek, 
being a ruling elder in the same. 




[( LBERT MORROW, a representative of one 
l\ of the most prominent families of Donegal 
1\ township, and a son of Abraham Morrow, 
-* was born August 13, 18(54, on the home 
farm in Donegal township, this county, and 
was reared to agricultural duties, attending, dur- 
ing the winter months of his boyhood, the common 
schools of the neighborhood. On April 16, 1891, 
he was united in marriage with Miss Gertrude 
Burig, daughter of Charles H. Burig, of Donegal 
township. 

Albert and Gertrude (Burig) Morrow are resid- 
ing on a pleasant farm, situated near the home 
place. He is engaged in wool growing, and is 
already one of the most prosperous young farmers 
in the vicinity. In politics he is a member of the 
Republican party. 



THOMAS McGAHEY (deceased) numbered 
among the prominent and progressive 
farmers of North Strabane township, and 
was a member of an old and highly respected 
family. His grandfather, Andrew Mc 
Gahey, was educated for the ministry, but owing 
to a difference in the churches to which his parents 
belonged, one a Covenanter, the other a Seceder, 
he declined to preach, and engaged in teaching. 
He taught the first select school of Braddock 
Fields, and there purchased a farm. He had one 
son and three daughters, all of whom reached 
maturity, viz.: Elizabeth (Mrs. William Powell). 
Mary (Mrs. Culberson), Ann (who was first married 
to Mr. Wilson, and afterward to Mr. Carruthers) 
and Hugh. 

Hugh McGahey was born in the North of [re- 
land, and was of a Scotch -Presbyterian family. 
When a child he came with his parents to America, 
settling in Allegheny county. Penn. Hugh Mc- 
Gahey was a man of refined mind and sterling 
principle, and was a soldier in the war of 1812. 
He was married, in Allegheny county, to Miss 





> 



cByz^^-^ ^a^Uf 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



683 



Margaret Hannah, who was born in that county, 
a daughter of David Hannah, and their union has 
hern blessed with two sons: Thomas (born Feb- 
ruary 1, 1812) and David (born October 17, 1813, 
and died in infancy). Mr. McGahey died some 
years after his return from the war of 1812, and 
was buried in the cemetery at Dr. Herren's Church, 
in Pittsburgh. Several years afterward his widow 
married Robert McElroy, and by this marriage 
had four children, viz.: John (born September 5, 
L82 1, and died unmarried), Sarah (born December 
13, 1826, and married to John Groove), Maria 
(born June 7, 1829, and married to Eli Myers) and 
Robert G. (who was born August 2, 1832, and 
married Elizabeth Donnell). The mother died in 
April, 1833. David Hannah (father of Mrs. Mc- 
Gahey, who was afterward Mrs. McElroy) was a 
prosperous farmer, of Scotch ancestry. He 
settled on a farm near " Braddock Fields," in 
Allegheny county. 

Thomas McGahey, subject of sketch, was born 
near Turtle Creek, Wilkins township, Allegheny 
county, February 1, 1812, a sou of Hugh and 
Margaret (Hannah) McGahey. Mr. McGahey 
married Miss Martha Sample, who was born 
March 27, 1S12, a daughter, of James and Elizabeth 
Wallace Sample. They were both members of the 
Presbyterian Church, and were buried in Oak 
Spring cemetery, Canonsburg. Five children 
were born of their marriage, viz. : Elizabeth Mary 
(of Canonsburg, unmarried), Hugh (who died in 
childhood), James (who died in childhood), Mar- 
garet Anna (living in Canonsburg, unmarried) and 
Thomas McGahey. 

James Sample emigrated from the North of 
Ireland, and after reaching America settled in 
Pennsylvania, when yet a young man. In 1804 he 
was married in Cumberland county, Penn., to 
Elizabeth Wallace, who was born March 19, 1785, 
and was nineteen years of age at the time of her 
marriage. She was a daughter of John and Eliza- 
beth (Eliot) Wallace, of Cumberland county, Penn., 
the former a soldier in the Revolutionary war. 
Immediately after their marriage Mr. and Mrs. 
Sample moved to Pittsburgh, Penn., then called 
" the backwoods " by people in Cumberland county. 
He had money, and located on Coal hill (now Mt. 
Washington), where he engaged in farming. At a 
later date he came to this county, and lived a few 
years in Washington, then moved to Allegheny 
county, and rented a farm where Wilkinsburgh now 
stands. He died on a farm in Versailles township, 
near Turtle Creek. Ten children were born of 
their marriage, viz : John (who died unmarried), 
Elizabeth (Mrs. William Mitchell), James (who 
married Rachel Dougherty), Mary (Mrs. George 
Mitchell), Martha (Mrs. Thomas McGahey), 
William (who married Hannah Dunbar), Adam 
(who died in childhood), Nancy (Mrs. Robert 



Wiley), Samuel (first married to Margaret Jordan, 
and afterward to Eliza Thompson) and Rosanna 
(who died in childhood). 

Thomas McGahey was born January 24, 1854, 
and was educated in the select schools of Wilkins- 
burgh. He came with his parents to North Stra- 
baue township in 1874, and after his father's death 
conducted the farm for his mother and sisters. On 
April 2, 1889, Mr. McGahey married Miss Minnie 
T. Brown; she was born in Fairview, Todd Co., 
Ky., daughter of Milton D. and Sarah A. (Daniel) 
Brown. Her parents were both members of the 
M. E. Church. Her father was raised on a farm, 
taught school, was admitted to the bar, and is now 
city judge in Hopkinsville, Ky. After their mar- 
riage Mr. and Mrs. McGahey came to Canonsburg, 
Penn., where he owns a handsome residence. They 
are members of the M. E. Church of Canonsburg, 
and he is one of the most prosperous men in that 
borough. In politics he is a Republican. One 
child has blessed their union, Arthur F., born 
June 15, 1890. 



Kr\ M. GEE'S SONS. The members of this 
IWy family are of English descent. The pio- 

\\\ neers of the family in America were Moses, 
J\ —* William and Joshua Gee; but from Moses 
v Gee this special branch is descended. He 

emigrated with his brothers and landed at Plym- 
outh, Mass. John, the grandson of Moses, was a 
millwright. He died at Wilkesbarre, Penn., at 
the age of one hundred and five years, and with 
the honor of service in the Revolutionary war. 

Samuel Gee, son of John (who had fifteen chil- 
dren, most of whom settled in Pennsylvania and 
New York), was born and reared in New York 
State, where, when a lad, he learned the mill- 
wright's trade — a trade he followed in New York 
and Pennsylvania. He married Hannah Hopkins 
(a niece of Stephen Hopkins — the tenth signer of 
the Declaration of Independence). They had thir- 
teen children, among whom were John, James, 
Ransom M., Sylvester and Ruth. Samuel settled 
with his wife at Painted Post, Penn., where he con- 
structed the first turbine water-wheel in that sec- 
tion, and where he was known as an uncompromis- 
ing Democrat and Presbyterian. 

Ransom M. Gee was born in 1818, in Elmira, 
N. Y., where he was reared and educated. At the 
age of fourteen years he commenced to learn har- 
ness-making with a brother-in-law at Williamsport r 
Penn., with whom he lived, having left the paternal 
roof at that early age. When eighteen years old 
he moved to Massachusetts, and there learned the 
trade of marble cutter with his brother Johu, and 
when twenty-one years old he opened a shop in 
that line at Elmira, N. Y. , where he remained un- 
til 1847, in which year he went to Waupun, Wis. v 



684 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



and after three years' residence there, he proceeded 
to Allegheny county, where, in West Newton and 
elsewhere he carried on his trade until 1852, when 
he came to Monongahela and opened a shop in the 
first ward, near the present river bridge, and here 
carried on a prosperous marble and granite busi- 
ness until his death, March 27, 1890; he was also 
a contractor for the buildiug of bridges from 1853 
to 1857. He married Mary M. , daughter of Sam- 
uel Gangwere, a native of Pennsylvania, of German 
ancestry, and whose children were Elizabeth, Sarah, 
Mary M. and Samuel. Mr. Gangwere was by 
trade a millwright, in politics a Democrat, in relig- 
ion a Baptist, The children born to Mr. and Mrs. 
Ransom M. Gee were as follows: Oris D. (Mrs. 
William Oliver), Joseph L. (deceased), William R. 
(deceased), William M. , John R. (deceased), Alex- 
ander (deceased), Charles W. , Ada L. and Samuel 
M. The mother died September 11, 1885. Mr. 
Gee was a Democrat, and held various offices of 
trust iu the city of his adoption; was a school di- 
rector, and always took an active interest in every- 
thing tending to the prosperity of his section. He 
was for many years a member of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church, but during the later years of 
his life, of the Protestant Episcopal Church, and 
was a vestryman of St. Paul's. Mrs. Mary M. Gee 
was a Baptist. 

William M. Gee was born in Pennsylvania 
March 18, 1845, and received a liberal education 
in the schools of Monongahela, where his parents 
settled in 1852. He was employed in the river 
traffic as far as New Orleans, and became a licensed 
pilot on the Monongahela river, which he followed 
ten years. On November 10, 1869, he married 
Elizabeth, daughter of Jacob Fiery, of this county, 
and their children were Ransom M., Charles W., 
Mary, Jacob, Alfred D. and Lillie, all now deceased 
except the last named. 

Charles W. Gee was born in Fond du Lac coun- 
ty, Wis.. October 23, 1849, and received his edu- 
cation at the public schools of Monongahela. 
Oq March 9, 1876, he married Rosanna, daughter 
of Jonas Weygandt, of Carroll township, this coun- 
ty, and their children are as follows: Two that 
died in infancy, Desdemona, Theodore P., Charles 
F. , Benjamin F., Sarah, and John R., the latter 
deceased. 

Samuel M. Gee was born September 29, 1856, 
iu Monongahela, his education being received at 
the public schools. On April 11, 1878, he married 
Emma, daughter of Thomas Wilson, and their 
children are William T., Ada L., Nancy D., Zilla 
H. A., Bessie L. and Margaret L. 

Since the death of Ransom M. Gee the firm has 
been known as R. M. Gee's Sons, and they conduct 
the largest works of the kind in the Monongahela 
Valley, carrying a full line of marbles and granites 



besides a complete assortment of iron fence work. 
The brothers are all Democrats and members of 
the Episcopal Church and M. E. Church. 



H/ENRY C. SWART, the subject of this 
notice, was born November 8, 1825, and 
was the fourth child of Philip and Asenah 
- 1 (Walton) Swart. 

He was born in Amwell township on the 
home farm near Amity, and was raised to the life 
of a farmer, receiving his education in the old log 
schoolhouse, with its slab benches for seats. In 
his early manhood he dealt iu stock, mostly hogs 
and horses — driving through on foot to Cumber- 
land, Md. , and shipping thence to Baltimore, Md., 
by railroad. He relates seeing, on one of his trips 
east, a lot of thirty slaves, driven along the Na- 
tional pike to Baltimore market, all chained and 
in charge of two men. On August 26, 1852, he 
married Miss Abigail, daughter of John and Sarah 
(Miller) Day, of Morris township, and they went 
to housekeeping on his father's farm, where they 
resided until he purchased, in 1857, the farm which 
he still owns, one mile south of Amity, formerly 
known as the Patterson farm. To them were born 
two children: John D. and Laura B. ; the sou, 
having married, still remains on the farm; the 
daughter, now married to a Mr. Horn, a lawyer, 
lives at Denver, Colo. On August 22, 1862, Mr. 
Swart enlisted in the Amity company, raised by 
Capt. Silas Parker, which afterward became the 
famous Company D, of the 140th P. V. I. He 
served faithfully, never missing a roll call. He 
participated in the battles of Chancellorsville, 
Gettysburg and Spottsylvania, as well as iu a 
number of lesser battles and skirmishes. On May 
12, 1864, at the battle of Spottsylvania, after hav- 
ing been under fire every day for a week, he re- 
ceived the terrible wound which made him a cripple 
for life. In this same battle Mr. Swart had two 
brothers, John and Amos, the latter killed during 
the fight. His brother, A. J., was wounded in the 
battle of Gettysburg. Thus it will be seen that 
there were four brothers who enlisted and entered 
their country's service, all of whom left their farms 
and comfortable homes in the care of wives and 
children. After Mr. Swart was wounded he lay 
on the field from 4 o'clock a. m. until eveniug, 
when he was taken to a field hospital, and during 
the night was loaded into an army wagon and 
taken, with others, to Fredericksburg, a distance 
of some fourteen or fifteen miles, over a very 
rough road on a fearfully dark night, during which 
his sufferings were intense. To escape falling 
into the hands of the enemy, the trip had to be 
taken. After remaining at Fredericksburg some 
two weeks, the wounded were taken by trans- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



685 



ports and hospital boats to Washington, D. C, 
•where he was placed in Lincoln hospital, and where 
he remained some ten days. He then received a 
leave of absence from the War Department to re- 
port when able at nearest army hospital, and was 
brought home to his family on a hospital stretcher 
in the latter part of June. Although given the 
best attendance, Mr. Swart suffered terrible agony 
for several months, and when only partially able, 
after an absence from hospital of about ten 
months, reported personally to a hospital at Pitts- 
burgh, Penn., the following April. Remaining 
there about a month until his application could be 
acted upon, he received from the War Department 
an honorable discharge, returned to his home and 
family, but will ever bear the marks of suffering, 
and the scars of war. He has never since been 
able to do any physical labor, but successfully 
managed his farm and farm work until the spring 
of 1872, when he retired and moved to Washing- 
ton, Penn. , in order that his children might have 
better educational advantages. 

In 1859 Mr. Swart made a profession of relig- 
ion, and united with the Methodist Protestant 
Church at Amity. For nearly thirty five years he 
has been a zealous, Christian worker, his member- 
ship still remaining with the church at Amity, in 
which he filled several important positions, repre- 
senting it in the Pittsburgh Annual Conference for 
five or six years, and in 1884 was one of the lay 
representatives of the Pittsburgh Conference to the 
General Conference at Baltimore, Md. In early 
manhood he was a Whig, casting his first presiden- 
tial vote in 1848 for Zachary Taylor. Upon the 
organization of the Republican party he united 
with it, and voted for Gen. Fremont in 1 850, in 
which party he continued until 1884, in which year 
he joined the temperance cause, and voted for the 
Prohibition presidential candidate. From his youth 
up he has been a strong advocate of temperance, 
and now, having a political party in the great work 
of temperance, rejoices that he is in the fight, hav- 
ing enlisted under its banner there to remain dur- 
ing the war on the liquor traffic. In addition to 
Mr. Swart' s severe wound in the hip, received at 
Spottsylvania, he received a slight injury on the 
side of the nose which has never healed, and has 
slowly worked its way into the eye until the sight 
of that eye is entirely gone, the other being also 
weakened, so that he is no longer able to read. 

Mr. Swart's father, Philip Swart, was the eld-est 
son in the family of ten children of Jacob and 
Sarah (Evans) Swart. Philip was born in 1797, 
and died in 1876; Asenah, his wife, was born in 
1798, and died in 1870. The ancestry of this nu- 
merous family is traced to Philip Swart, a native of 
Germany. His children were Jacob (before men- 
tioned) and Susan, who married John Philips, of 
Greene county, Penn. Mrs. Abigail (Day) Swart 



was born in 1831, and is still a well-preserved 
woman. Her father, John Day, was born in 1788 
and died in 1871. During the war of 1812, he 
served in a cavalry company. His wife, Sarah 
(Miller) Day, was born in 1794, and died in 1837. 
Henry C. Swart and his amiable wife now live in 
a comfortable home in the suburbs of Washington, 
where they enjoy the fruits of their united labor. 



d| AMES NEELY is a native of Cooley Parish, 
County Tyrone, Ireland, and the eldest child 
) of Charles and Elizabeth (McGinnis) Neely. 
Charles Neely was born in 1782, in County 
Tyrone, Ireland, and in early manhood mar- 
ried Elizabeth, daughter of James McGinnis. She 
was born in 1792. Nine children blessed this mar- 
riage, viz. : James, Catherine (deceased in youth), 
John (deceased in Philadelphia), Ann (unmarried, 
living in Allegheny, Penn.), Elizabeth (wife of 
Robert Pringle, in Mercer county, Penn.), Charles 
(in Allegheny, Penn.), William (a member of the 
U. S. Army for seven years, and of the Seventh 
Infantry U. S. A. during the war. He was twice 
wounded before Richmond, one shot piercing his 
right lung, from the effects of which he died two 
years later), and twins, who died in infancy. The 
father was a linen weaver by trade, following that 
business in connection with farming. In 1845 
they came with two children, William and Eliza- 
beth, to America, and joined those who had pre- 
ceded them to Mercer county, Penn. The father 
passed away in 1856, followed by the mother the 
next year. 

James Neely was born November 11, 1813, and 
learned the linen weaver's trade under the parental 
roof. In 1841 he accompanied an uncle, John 
Neely, to America. They embarked at London- 
derry, Ireland, on the good ship " North America," 
commanded by Capt. William Baker, bound for 
Philadelphia. On landing in America, they pro- 
ceeded to Hanover township, Washington Co., 
Penn., and soon afterward moved to Mercer 
county, Penn., where some relatives were living. 
Here James Neely married Catherine, daughter of 
John Walford, who was of German parentage. 
She was born in May, 1811, in Mercer county, 
Penn., and married Mr. Neely March 10, 1842. 
For a short time the couple lived with Mr. Walford, 
then moved upon a small farm. James Neely 
afterward worked on the Pennsylvania Canal, but 
finally resumed agricultural pursuits, in Mercer 
county, Penn. In 1855 he purchased 180 acres 
of woodland in Sugar Creek township, Venango 
Co., Penn., which he cleared and cultivated. In 
1865 he sold this place, and coming to Hanover 
township, this county, bought 128 acres of land 
for §10,000. This tract is situated one mile west 
of Florence, on the Steubenville & Pittsburgh 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



pike, where he has since resided. Beginning life 
as a poor boy, Mr. Neely has amassed a good prop- 
erty, and has become prominent in farming and 
stock raising. In 1888 he was called to Ireland on 
business, and visited, perhaps for the last time, the 
scenes of his boyhood, returning on the same vessel 
on which he made the outward voyage, the "Alas- 
ka. ' ' Politically Mr. Neely has always been a Deni- 
orat, and in religious faith he and his wife are mem- 
bers of the Presbyterian Church. They have been 
wedded over fifty years, and have reared the fol- 
lowing named children: John W., an oil operator 
of Ohio; Elizabeth, wife of Solomon A. Dow, 
of Oorry, Penn. ; William O, deceased, in 1888, in 
Chattanooga, Tenn. ; James Mc. , deceased in in- 
fancy; James M., a farmer of Hanover township; 
and Catherine J., living at home. 



dfOHN GARRETT, a well-known and prosper- 
ous agriculturist and stock raiser of West 
J Bethlehem township, was born February 16, 
1825, upon the farm adjoining the one where- 
on he now resides. He is a grandson of 
Peter Garrett and son of Nicholas, who was born 
in Maryland in 1779, and there married Mary Ann 
Baumgardner. Thence, about the commencement 
of the present century, they removed to Washing- 
ton county, Penn. The children born to them 
were as follows: Elizabeth, Rachel, Mary Ann, 
Lydia, Catherine, Susan, Sarah, Jacob, Peter, Sam- 
uel, John and William. 

John Garrett received his education in the sub- 
scription schools of the neighborhood, and in early 
boyhood received a thorough training in farm life. 
On April 1, 1852, he was united in marriage with 
Margaret, daughter of John Watson, and by her 
had one child, Franklin Pierce, who assists on the 
farm. The young mother died at his birth, and in 
1854 our subject married Miss Lavina, daughter 
of David Morrow, of North Strabane township, 
thi-. county, by which union there were born eight 
children: four died in infancy; Thomas now resides 
upon a farm adjoining that of his father; Lydia 
and Sadie are now married and living in Ohio; 
Elizabeth lives at the parental home. Mr. Garrett 
owned and operated one of the first threshing ma- 
chines built in the county, and has given almost 
his entire attention to threshing ever since. In 
1869 he, unfortunately, caught his left hand in the 
machine, and it was ground to a pulp, rendering 
amputation necessary. Mr. Garrett is a thorough 
Democrat, and has been elected to many offices of 
trust by his fellow-citizens, who appreciate his 
ability. He now owns a fine farm, consisting of 
260 acres of well-cultivated land; while upon the 
hillsides and meadow browse nearly 200 sheep 
and other stock. 



JP. LAWTHER. The beginnings of this family 
in America post-date the close of the Revo- 
lution by nine years. James Lawther, Sr. , 
born in Ireland, March 15, 1769, married 
Jane Shaw in 1 790, shortly after sailed for 
the young Republic and settled in Virginia, where 
they resided for twenty-one years before removing 
to Pennsylvania (in 1812). Here the pioneer died 
on his farm December 23, 1821. Of their eleven 
children, Alexander Lawther was the ninth in order 
of birth. He was born June 22, 1808, and on May 
8, 1844, married Nancy Smith (born March 7, 
1814), a daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth Smith, 
of Richland county, Ohio. He died March 19, 
1878, leaving a widow, now living. Of the five 
children born to this marriage, Ellen O, born Sep- 
tember 2, 1845, married Robert Cunningham, of 
Jefferson township, April 25, 1889; Mary J., born 
December 10, 1847, died August 7, 1870; J. P. 
Lawther is the subject of this sketch; Thomas B. 
was born August 2, 1852; and James A., born No- 
vember 8, 1854, died October 2, 1863. 

J. P. Lawther was born March 10, 1S50, reared 
to farm pursuits on the paternal acres, and on 
August 24, 1876, married Eliza, daughter of James 
Black, of Hanover township. One daughter was 
born to this marriage: Nancy, who is yet living. 
The mother died March 30, 1888, and was buried 
in Paris cemetery. For his second wife, J. P. Law- 
ther married, February 25, 1890, Amy Price, of 
Orange towuship, Carroll Co., Ohio, who was a 
daughter of Benjamin Price. After his marriage 
they located on the present farm, having since been 
engaged in general farming, stock raising and the 
dairy business. Mr. Lawther is an admirer of fine 
cattle, and has a specially fine lot of Devons on his 
farm. He is a progressive citizen, which the many 
improvements on his farm, such as the new house 
and barn prove. In politics he is a Democrat. 



T|OHN LAWTON (deceased) was a successful 
l I agriculturist and an energetic, useful citizen. 
ffjl His father, Joseph Lawton, was born in 
^^ Rhode Island, and in early life was married 
to Mary Alma, of the same State, who bore him 
the following children: Amy (wife of William Ran- 
kin), Pardon, Samuel, Sarah, Peter, Joanna, Anna 
and John. In 1819 Joseph Lawton and his family 
came to Washington county, Penn., the journey — 
necessarily a tedious one, having to be made with 
os-teams — being accomplished in seven weeks. 
They settled on a farm in Cross Creek township, 
where Joseph Lawton died in 1839. In his polit- 
ical preferences he was an old-school Democrat. 

John Lawton was born June 7, 1816, in Rhode 
Island, and was consequently three years of age 
when the family moved to Pennsylvania. On 
August 6, 1835, he married Margaret Miniken, 






■T/y}yU-ur^2^ 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



689 



daughter of William Miniken, who came from 
England in 1803, settling in Pittsburgh; in 1805 
he married Margaret Powell, and they had chil- 
dren as follows: Mary (Mrs. Barlow Folk), John, 
Nancy (deceased), William, Sarah (wife of Harvey 
Lawton), Hannah, William, Margaret (married to 
John Lawton) and Julia (wife of Joseph Maxwell). 
Mr. Miniken made his first home in the New World 
in Pittsburgh, Penn., where he resided several 
years, and then removed to Washington, this county, 
where he conducted an extensive bakery and con- 
fectionery. He was a leading politician in the 
ranks of the Whig party, and in religious connec- 
tion a zealous member of the Episcopal Church. 
He died in 1827, and in January, 1853, his wife 
was laid beside him. 

John and Margaret (Miniken) Lawton passed the 
earlier portion of their married life in Butler county, 
Penn., afterward settling on the home place in 
Cross Creek township, this county, where they re- 
mained several years. They then moved to West 
Middletown, and some years later proceeded to 
Wisconsin, thence to Minnesota (residing there two 
years), finally returning to the home farm in Cross 
Creek township. Mr. Lawton was a successful 
farmer, and for forty years was a resident of Cross 
Creek township. Politically he was originally a 
Democrat, afterward becoming an active worker in 
the ranks of the Republican party. He died 
January 9, 1882, aged sixty-four years six months, 
and was laid to rest in Brownsville Cemetery, West 
Middletown, Penn. He was a prominent member of 
the Presbyterian Church at Upper Buffalo, of 
which his widow is also a member. 



I M RS. ELIZABETH KING. William King, 

\//\ a son of Thomas, was born in Ireland and 
■i I came with his father to America. He 

I was married in this country to Margaret, 

v a daughter of James McNall, a native of 

Ireland, and the following children were born to 
their union: James, born February 27, 1809; 
Thomas, born October 2, 1810; Eleanor, bom Au- 
gust 25, 1812; William, born January 30, 1815; 
John, born December 6, 1817; Joseph, born Janu- 
ary 26, 1820; Andrew, bora June 16, 1822; Hugh, 
born December 15, 1824; Wells, born April 13, 
1828, and Margaret J., born October 25, 1830; all 
of whom are now deceased except Andrew and 
Margaret J., and their children are scattered 
through different parts of the country. 

William King was born January 30, 1815, in 
Washington county, Penn., and when eleven years 
of age came with the family to his present home 
in Robinson township. Though enjoying but lim- 
ited educational advantages, Mr. King possessed 
much intelligence and business capacity. In 1840 
he was united in marriage with Elizabeth Hooper. 



To them five children were born, namely: Mar- 
garet, Jane (Mrs. Robert Geary), Martha E. (de- 
ceased), William J. and Anna Zetta, all of whom 
are living on the home farm with their widowed 
mother. The father was a stanch member of the 
Democratic party, and in religious faith was a 
member and liberal supporter of the Robinson 
United Presbyterian Church. He died September 
6, 1884, leaving to his family a double inheritance, 
an untarnished name being the first and most im- 
portant. By careful management he had accumu- 
lated a good property, leaving 269 acres of excel- 
lent land, underlaid with a six-foot vein of the best 
coal, which greatly increases the value of the 
property, now considered one of the best estates 
in Robinson township. 

Hugh King, a brother of William, died while on 
the ship " Claremont," during her passage from 
New Orleans to Philadelphia. He was traveling 
for his health at that time. The following state- 
ment was sent home by the captain of the ship: 
" Hugh King died January 5, 1847, on board the 
bark 'Claremont,' on her passage from New Or- 
leans to Philadelphia, in Latitude 25 degrees 42 
minutes North, Longitude 84 degrees 12 minutes 
West. He was a native of Robinson township, 
Washington Co., Penn. Capt. Edward Lamond, 
commander." The following lines by Anna L. 
Lear were written on the death of Hugh King: 

Low in the deep we hud him down! 
Sweet is his sleep, and bright the crown 
The sea shall weave around his head, 
While pearl and amber deck his bed. 

High in the sky the evening star, 
With pitying eye looked from afar — 
The tender moon, through the still night. 
Shed o'er the scene her lambent light. 

His requiem the soft wind wailed 
As far from him our fleet ship sailed, 
While he, no more to wake or weep, 
Unheeding lay, low in the deep. 

No marbled grace o'er him shall rise, 
No human trace tells where he lies. 
Yet He, whose hand holds all the waves, 
Forgets no lonely ocean graves. 

Mrs. Elizabeth Kino, a resident of Robinson 
township, is a daughter of William Hooper, who is 
a son of Philip Hooper, who was of German de- 
scent and a tanner by trade. Philip Hooper came 
to Allegheny county, Penn., when the forests were 
teeming with wild beasts and nomadic Indians, 
naturally jealous of the white man's encroachments 
on their soil. Mr. Hooper sunk vats for his tan- 
nery under the branches of sugar trees, as he could 
not afford to build a shed for them. He was mar- 
ried to Jane Hill, who bore him seven children: 
Philip, Alexander, Samuel, John, William, Eliza- 
beth and Nancy. William Hooper was born on the 
home place in Allegheny county, becoming famil- 
iar from boyhood with the hardships and dangers 



690 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



incident to frontier life. He selected as Lis life 
companion Miss Jane Wright, whose father, James 
Wright, was born in Ireland, and, emigrating to 
this country, settled in Allegheny county, Penn. 
The Indians were often heard moving along the 
creek just below his cabin door, while the listener 
would wait breathlessly until the sound of their 
footsteps was lost in the distance, or if com- 
ing nearer still, then the terrified family would flee 
to a neighboring fort for refuge. To William and 
Jane (Wright) Hooper thirteen children were born, 
of whom the following lived to maturity: James, 
Philip, John, William, Elizabeth, Samuel, Jane 
and Archibald, of whom Elizabeth is the only one 
yet surviving. She was born November 5, 1815, 
on the old Hooper homestead in Allegheny 
county, Penn., where she grew to womanhood, as- 
sisting with the household duties. On December 
28, 18-40, she gave her hand in marriage to Will- 
iam King, a son of William, whose father, Thomas 
King, settled near Washington, this county, at an 
early day. 



THOMAS ALEXANDER BLACK is the only 
male representative of an old Irish family, 
his grandfather, Thomas, having been the 
first of the family to settle in America. 
Thomas Black (the grandfather) was born 
May 12, 1 777, in Ireland, and when a young man was 
married in his native country to Margaret Hunter, 
who was born September 1, 1775. Before leaving 
Ireland, four children were born to this couple: 
William (a resident of Washington county, Iowa), 
born December 25, 1799; Samuel (living in Wash- 
ington county, Ohio), born March 8, 1801; Mary 
Ann (unmarried), born February 14, 1804; and 
James, born March 15, 1807. Thomas Black and. 
his family came to America about 1809, locating in 
Washington county, Penn. In 1811 he settled on 
the home farm in Hanover township, upon which 
his grandson (Thomas A.) is now residing. Mr. 
Black amassed a valuable property, and passed 
away June 21, 1851, followed by his \vife,May29, 
1855. They were buried in Paris cemetery. 
Both were consistent members of the Seceder 
Church. After coming to America the following 
children were added to their family: Marga- 
ret (first married to a Mr. Bell, now widow of 
a Mr. McLaughlin, is living in Omaha, Neb.), born 
July 11, 1810; Grissey (unmarried), born March 
22, 1813; Jane (wife of John McWhirter, Mercer 
county, Penn.), born in February, 1818. Of these 
children Margaret and Grissey are the only ones 
living. 

James Black, son of Thomas, was born in Ire- 
land, and was but a child when his parents came 
to the farm in Hanover township, where his youth 
was passed. On March 18, 1844, he was married 



to Charlotte McWhirter, a lady of Irish parentage, 
who was born January 21, 1819. After his mar- 
riage, James Black located on the old homestead, 
and continued to follow farming during his life, 
with the exception of one year in which he was en- 
gaged in the milling business. He was a success- 
ful farmer and esteemed citizen. Politically he 
was a Whig, then a Republican, and in religious 
faith both he and his wife were members of the U. 
P. Church. He died March 6, 1881, his wife hav- 
ing gone before him to the " Silent Land, " Octo- 
ber 24, 1867, and both are now buried in Paris 
cemetery. Their children were born as follows: 
Samuel, born January 21, 1846, is now a U. P. 
minister of Tarentum, Allegheny Co., Penn.; 
Mary Jane, born August 10, 1847, deceased wife 
of Cyrus G. Arnold; Margaret, born September 
13, 1849, was fatally burned and died November 2, 
1853; Eliza Ann, born October 31, 1851, deceased 
wife of J. P. Lawther; Thomas Alexander, whose 
name opens this sketch; Margaret H, born Octo- 
ber 10, 1856, deceased wife of Lee Arnold; and 
Sarah E., Mrs. J. M. Herron, of Hanover town- 
ship, born March 6, 1859. 

Thomas Alexander Black was born December 
28, 1853, on the old farm in Hanover township, 
which he now owns and resides upon. He at- 
tended the "'Old McCausland School," and assist- 
ed with the farm duties. On July 4, 1881, he 
married Alice E. Cassidy, daughter of Hugh and 
Nancy (McCune) Cassidy, of Hanover township. 
Since his marriage Mr. Black has followed farm- 
ing on the old homestead, and in 1883 took an ex- 
tended tour through the West, visiting several of 
the growing States. He is an admirer of fine cat- 
tle, as the number of thoroughbred Holsteins to be 
found on his farm amply proves. In politics he 
is a Republican, but upholds the principles of the 
Prohibitionists. He and his wife are members of 
the United Presbyterian Church. They have one 
daughter, Beulah O., born January 6, 1883. 




WILLIAM B. LIBBEY, a dentist, born in 
Columbiana county, Ohio, is a son of 
Bennett and Agnes (Lit tell) Libbey, the 
former a native of Vermont, the latter of 
Beaver, Penn. Mathias Libbey, grand- 
father of William B. , was also a native of Vermont, 
where he died. He was the father of three sons 
and one daughter — Bennett, William, Haines and 
Alvira, all now deceased except Haines, who resides 
at Lynn, Mass. 

Bennett Libbey was a machinist, who moved to 
Pittsburgh in youth, where he married Agnes Lit- 
tell, whose father emigrated from Ireland and set- 
tled in the southern part of Beaver county, where 
he married Mary Walker. The couple lived at 
Pittsburgh for a number of years, then moved to 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



691 



Columbiana county, Ohio, where William B. Lib- 
bey was born; five years later, the family returned 
to Beaver county, Penn., where Bennett Libbey 
died December 19, 1856, aged fifty-two years. 
His widow, Agues, died at Pittsburgh, November 
15, 1888, in her eightieth year. Their children 
are: Alice, William B. , John E. and James A., 
all residents of Pittsburgh except William B., who 
lives at Washington, Penn. Bennett Libbey was 
a Presbyterian in religious opiniou. In 1854 or 
1S56 he abandoned the Democratic and united 
with the Republican party. 

William B. Libbey was reared in Beaver county, 
Penn., his education being secured at the common 
schools of the neighborhood, and at Beaver acad- 
emy. For some years he was a traveling salesman 
for a wholesale house, but abandoning commercial 
life commenced the study of dentistry in the office 
of Dr. J. G. Templeton, Pittsburgh, Penn., attend- 
ing also the Dental College at Ann Arbor, Mich., 
and the Pennsylvania Dental College, where he 
graduated. In 1880 he came to Washington, and 
engaged in the active and successful practice of his 
profession. At Poughkeepsie, N. Y., Dr. Libbey 
was united in marriage, April 11, 1882, with Ade- 
laide, daughter of Charles and Phoebe (Lockwood) 
Sutton, of Fairfax C. H. , Va. , whose ances- 
tors were Quakers from Dutchess county, N. Y. 
Mr. Sutton had eight children — Mariana, Alice, 
Josephine, Adelaide, John and Charles (twin 
brothers), Jennie and Ella. To this union two 
children were born, Helen and Florence. The fam- 
ily residence in Washington is on the corner of 
Wade avenue and Wheeling street. In 1863 the 
Doctor enlisted in the one hundred days' service, 
and in 1864 re-enlisted, this time in Company H, 
Fifth P. V. A., was promoted second lieutenant of 
his company, with which he served until the close 
of the war, being mustered out June 30, 1865, at 
Vienna, Virginia. 



di OSEPH S. CULLEY. Among the prosper- 
I ous agriculturists of Hanover township, there 
are few, if any, who have made more prac- 
tical application of scientific principles in 
their vocation than has this progressive 
citizen. He is a native of Washington county, 
Penn., and grandson of Levi Culley. 

Levi Cully was born about 1769, in Maryland, 
and there married Esther Smith, a Marylander, 
who was born about 1775. Levi was a farmer, 
who, about 1800, came to Washington county, 
Penn. The long journey was made in a large 
covered wagon drawn by four horses. When 
crossing the Susquehanna river, a singular experi- 
ence befell them. As the large covered wagon stood 
on the ferry-boat, a strong breeze was blowing, and 
the cover served to catch the wind, the force of 



which drove the boat some distance out of its course, 
causing much trouble in securing a suitable place 
to land, siuce they were unable to reach the usual 
place. This wagon contained the father and 
mother, with their two children, Jesse and Joseph. 
They proceeded on their journey, sleeping on 
their wagon beside the road at night, and finally 
arriving in this county, located near Bulger Station, 
Smith township, where the father rented a farm. 
He was a tenant on different farms several years, 
and by energy and economy eventually accumu- 
lated a small sum, purchased 277 acres of John L. 
Proudfoot, partially lying in Hanover and Smith 
townships. Levi Culley was a cooper, following 
that trade in connection with his farm. He was a 
hard worker, and very successful in his business. 
In politics he was a Democrat, and in religion a 
member of the Cross Roads Presbyterian Church. 
He died in 1818, and his widow, with the assistance 
of her sons, managed the estate which he left, 
until in 1840 she too was laid to rest by the side 
of her husband in the Florence cemetery. Of their 
children, the following is a brief record: Jesse 
was born in Maryland, and when but a small boy 
came to Washington county, Penn., with his par 
ents (he was married to Susan, daughter of 
Elder John Duncan, and settled on a farm in this 
county, where he died in his seventy-second year); 
Joseph, of whom a sketch follows; George was the 
first child born after the family settled here (he 
was married to Jane Fulton, and was a farmer; he 
died in Hanover township, aged seventy-two years); 
Robert was a cabinet maker by trade (his wife was 
Amanda McCond; they settled in Florence, this 
county, where he died August 21, 1848); Siuie 
never married (she died in early womanhood); 
Lydia was married to James Cubbison, a cabinet 
maker (they afterward settled on a farm in Guern- 
sey county, Ohio, and in 1844 moved to a place 
near Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, where she died); Rebecca 
was the wife of William Cole, of Hanover town- 
ship, where she died; Levi learned the tailor's 
trade at Florence, afterward entered into a part- 
nership with Andrew Conn, at Mansfield, Ohio (he 
was married to Mary Ann Butterfoes, and is now 
living on a farm in Morrow county, Ohio); Helen 
married Robert G. Smith, a farmer of Hanover 
township, where she died; and John. 

Joseph Culley, born in Maryland, was brought 
by his parents to Washington county, Penn., in 
infancy. He was reared on the farm, received a 
subscription-school education, and there learned 
the cooper's trade. When his father died, the 
management of the large farm was given to Joseph 
and an older brother, Jesse. In 1825 Joseph 
Culley married Martha Scott, who was born 
December 13, 1796, daughter of a pioneer, Joseph 
Scott. Three children were born to this marriage, 
namely : Maria, widow of John Armor, born June 



692 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



21, 1826, is now living near Murdocksville, Han- 
over township; Elizabeth, deceased wife of James 
Anderson, of Beaver county, born December 21, 
1829; and Joseph S., whose name opens this 
sketch. The parents passed their lives on a por- 
tion of the "Old Scott Tract," near Raccoon 
creek, in the eastern part of Hanover township. 
The father followed his trade, and being a very 
skillful workman could easily set up ten barrels a 
day, besides attending to the general duties of the 
farm. He was an old-time Whig, but united 
with the Republican party upon its organization. 
He possessed the spirit of industry, which seems to 
be a special characteristic of this family, and was 
an influential citizen. He died on the farm, and 
in 1882 was followed by Mrs. Culley. Both were 
conscientious members of the Cross Creek Presby- 
terian Church, and are buried side by side in the 
Florence cemetery. 

Joseph S. Culley was born March 26, 1838, on 
the home farm in Hanover township, where his 
boyhood was passed in attending the old Coventry 
school, and receiving his initiation into the 
mysteries of agriculture. His tastes led him to 
the choice of a rural life, which he has continued 
to pursue on the old home place. On June 
15, 1864, he married Sarah Donaldson. Miss 
Donaldson was born March 31, 1843, in Hanover 
township, and was a daughter of Richard and 
Mary (Bigger) Donaldson. Six children were 
born to Mr. and Mrs. Culley, namely: Edward A., 
now studying for the Presbyterian ministry at the 
Western Theological Seminary, Allegheny, and 
is a graduate of Washington and Jefferson College, 
was born August 8, 1865; Annie M., deceased at 
the age of fourteen years, born September 9, 1867; 
George W., living on the home farm, born Feb- 
ruary 14, 1870; William C, at home, born June 
5, 1873; Andrew D. , born January 8, 1875; Sarah 
M., born October 31, 1878. In 1876 Mr. Culley 
erected his present residence, and to the old farm 
added an adjoining tract known as the "Richmond 
Farm." He now owns 300 acres of fine land. 
His wife died March 12, 1879, and was buried at 
Florence. On March 30, 1880, he married Carrie 
Buchanan, a native of Robinson township, and a 
daughter of John Buchanan. Joseph S. Culley is 
an ardent supporter of the Republican party, with 
which his first vote was cast. He is a member of 
the Presbyterian Church at Florence, of which he 
has been a trustee for several years. 




Samuel Poole was a carpenter and builder. He 
married, in 1842, in Pennsylvania, Margaret 
Blankney, a native of Bedford count)', and seven 
children were born to them, two of whom survive: 
Morgan, a resident of Braddock, Penn., and Arthur 
A. The parents lived in Allegany county, Md., 
until 1850, when they removed to Cumberland, 
Md. , where the father died in 1877, and the mother 
in March, 1857, at the age of forty years. 

Arthur A. Poole had the advantages of a good 
common-school education, after which he clerked 
in a shoe store in Cumberland, Md., until he 
enlisted in September, 1861, in Company H, 
Second Maryland Infantry, and served until the 
close of the war, chiefly in the valley of Virginia. 
After his discharge he learned the jewelry business 
with S. T. Little, in Cumberland, Md., and on 
finishing an apprenticeship, he worked as journey- 
man in various places. In 1875 he opened a 
jewelry store in Cumberland, Md., in partnership 
with P. J. Smith, the style of thefirm being Smith 
& Poole; in 1878 he came to Washington, and 
opened a small store in the same line of trade, now 
one of the finest in the place. By industry and 
careful attention to business, Mr. Poole has met 
with well-merited success. To-day he is one of 
the leading business men of Washington. In 
October, 1871, our subject married Laura V., 
daughter of Capt. R. A. French, of Cumberland, 
Md. Five children were born to them: Arthur 
French (who graduated from Washington and 
Jefferson College in the class of 1891, and is now 
in his father's store), Edith V., Helen May, Her- 
bert C. and Marguerite. Mr. and Mrs. Poole are 
members of the First Presbyterian Church of 
Washington; in politics he is a Republican. 



RTHUR A. POOLE, the popular jeweler 
of Washington, of English ancestry, was 
born in Bedford county, Penn., November 
'.», 1S44. Denton Poole, his grandfather, 
emigrated from England to Maryland, 

where was born, in 1816, Samuel, the father of our 

subject. 




KS. NANCY REED, widow of James 

Reed, is descended from that noble stock 

of Scotch-Presbyterians who, owing to 

religious persecutions, passed over from 

Scotland to the North of Ireland. She 

is a daughter of John and Orpha (Cornwell) Hays, 

both of Chartiers township. 

*The family of Hay (or Hays as they generally spelled 

their na alter making their new home in tin- North of 

Ireland) have prominent place in the history of Scot- 
land. It is said that about the year 980, in the reign of 
Kenneth III., the Danes having invaded Scotland, they 
were encountered by that king near Lancarty, in Perth- 
shire. The Scots at first gave way and tied through a 
narrow pass where they were stopped by a countryman 
of great strength and courage and his two sons, with no 
other weapons than the yokes of their plows. Upbraid- 
ing the fugitives lor their cowardice, he succeeded in ral- 
lying them, and the battle being resumed, the Danes 
were defeated. After the victory was obtained, the old 
peasant, while lying on the ground, wounded and 
fatigued, cried, "Hay, Hay," which word became the 

* Taken from the " Origin and signification of Scottish surnames " 
bj Clifford Stanley Sims. 







A/s^A^^. !yya^/-c 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



695 



surname of his posterity, and the king, as a reward for 
his signal service, gave him as much land in the carse 
of Gowrie as a falcon should flyover before it Bettled; 
and a falcon being accordingly let off flew over an extent 
of ground six miles in length, after called Errol, and 
lighted on a stone, still called " falcon stone." 

$Hay, Earl op Kinnoul. This noble family is a branch 
of the illustrious family of Errol, and is sprung from 
Sir William Hay, ancestor of the house of Leys, who was 
second son of Sir David, and brother-germau of Sir Gil- 
bert Hay of Errol, who flourished in the reign of King- 
Alexander III. From him was lineally descended Sir 
Edmund Hay of Melginch, who made a considerable 
figure in the reign of King James VI. He was father of 
Sir Peter, the father of Sir Patrick, who was in much es- 
timation with King James IV. George, his second son, 
being, by the care of his father, well brought up, was, for 
the improvement of his education, sent to France, where 
he spent some years under the tuition of the learned Ed- 
mund Hay, his uncle; soon after his return, being about 
twenty-one years of age, he was introduced to the court 
of King James VI. by his kinsman, James Hay, Viscount 
Dowcaster and earl of Carlisle, and in a very short time 
raised to be one of the gentlemen of his majesty's bed- 
chamber, and had a gift of the Carthusian priory of 
Perth. He was by the same king preferred to very prom- 
inent positions, among them that of lord high chancellor 
of Scotland, in which post he was continued by Charles 
I., King of Great Britain (for in the meantime the union 
of England and Scotland had been consummated), who 
advanced him to the dignity of Viscount Dupplin, and 
Earl of Klnnoul. The position of chancellor lie held up 
to his death, which occurred December 16, 1634, a period 
of fourteen years. He married Margaret, daughter of 
Sir James Haliburtou of Pitcur, and by her had issue Sir 
Peter, who died unmarried; George, his successor; and 
Lady .Margaret. 

George, second earl, was made captain of the yeomen 
of the guard to Charles I., and one of his privy council, 
but lost most of his estate in pursuit of his loyalty to the 
king. 

William, son of George, third earl, died in 1677, and 
was succeeded by his second son. 

George, fourth earl, who died in Hungary, 1687, with- 
out issue, and was succeeded by his brother. 

William, fifth earl, who, dying a bachelor in 1709, the 
honor descended to Thomas Hay, of Dalhusy, near Perth, 
the next male heir. 

Which Thomas, sixth earl, was the brother and heir of 
George Hay, of Belhusy, son of Peter Hay, of the same 
place, third son of Sir Patrick Ha}", of Melginch, and 
brother of George, first earl of Kinnoul, and so succeed- 
ing, was elected one of the fifteen peers of the third and 
fourth British parliaments. He married Elizabeth, 
daughter of William Drummond, Viscount Strathallan. 
Their youngest son, Col. John Hay, of Cromlich, in 1715 
followed the Pretender from Scotland, who gave him the 
title of Earl of Inverness. 

George Henry (eldest son of Thomas), Viscount Dup- 
plin, in 1711 was created a peer of Great Britain by 
Queen Anne. In 1718 he succeeded his father as seventh 
Earl of Kinnoul. In 1709 he married Abigail Harley, 
youngest daughter of Robert, Earl of Oxford, and l>\ her 
had four sons and six daughters. The sons were Thomas, 
Viscount Dupplin; Robert, who took the name and arms 
of Drummond as heir of entail to his great-grandfather, 
William Drummond, Viscount Strathallan, and was 
elected in 1748 bishop of St. Asaph; in 1761 was elected 
bishop of Salisbury, and same year archbishop of York. 
John was rector of Lincoln; Henry Edward was consul- 
general in Portugal in May, 1754, and plenipotentiary to 
same king, 1762. 

{From a work giving an account of the "Clan Hay." 



Thomas, eighth earl of Kinnoul, was commissioner of 
the revenue in Ireland, afterward commissioner of the 
board of trade in England; was ambassador to the King 
of Portugal, 1759, and was soon afterward appointed 
chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, but resigned all 
his offices in 1762. In 1741 he married Coustantia, daugh- 
ter of John Kirle Ernie, of Whetham, in Wiltshire, 
Esquire; she died 1753 without surviving issue. 

John Hays, a widower, emigrated from Lismore, 
County Londonderry, to America about the ye;ir 
1775, accompanied by four sons, one, John, the 
second eldest, remaining in Ireland. He sett lei 1 
on Plnm run in Washington county, Penn., taking 
up in his own name a tract of land containing 
some 419 acres, which in the patent is called 
"Hayfield." This patent, which had not been 
lifted until April, 1794, covered what was after- 
ward known as the Anderson, Halft and Ramsey 
properties, the old homestead being on the Ander- 
son tract. John Hays, after coming to this country, 
married a second time, and this wife, Jean, died 
September 15, 1795, aged sixty years. John Hays 
departed this life December 26, 1801, aged seventy- 
five years, and was laid beside his wife. He had 
five sons, all born in Ireland as follows: William. 
March 1, 1753; John, April 15, 1756; Robert, 
September 12,1758; James. December 10, 1702; 
and Samuel, February '27. 1776. As the father 
lived in the bounds of Dr. McMillan's church, 
doubtless he was a member of same. Politically 
he was an Old-line Whig. 

William Hays, eldest son of the pioneer John, 
on his arrival in the county from Ireland, took 
possession in his own name of a tract of land 
about one mile further up the Plum run valley, 
containing 441 acres, which he designated in the 
patent "Haywood." Soon afterward (probably 
about the year 1793) he married Jane Henderson 
who bore him children as follows: Jane, born 
November 4, 1794; William, March 26, 1796; 
Nancy, March 25, 1798; John, July 14, 1799; 
Isaac, March 15, 1801, died October 6, 1805; Cath- 
erine, August 29, 1802, died October 24, 1805; 
Robert, May 12, 1804, and Catherine, December 
15, 1805, died September 4, 1806. The father of 
this family died suddenly October 26, 1805, and 
he and a sou and daughter, all dying within a few 
hours of each other, were laid to rest in Miller's 
Run graveyard. The bereaved wife and mother 
subsequently married Henry McAfee. 

John Hays, second son of William, was born in 
Chartiers township. He married, March 29, 1819, 
Miss Orpha Cornwell, and the young couple re- 
mained in Chartiers township until 1860, when he 
came to Canonsburg. The children by this union 
were William, born July 29, 1820, died April 27, 
1881; Nancy, born June 17, 1822, married to 
James Reed, sketch of whom follows; Jane E., 
born September 7, 1824, married to Rev. Mc- 
Farland; Isaac, born April 17, 1827; John Smith, 



696 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



born August 2, 1830; Matilda, born September 29, 
1832, died September 2, 1833, and George Price, 
born February 2. 1838. The mother died Novem- 
ber 2, 1851, in the fifty-fifth year of her age, hav- 
ing been born in 1796. The father subsequently 
married Miss Jane Daily, formerly of Mononga- 
hela City, but then of Pittsburgh". He died July 
31, 1875; his widow is living on the old homestead 
in Canonsburg. He was first a Whig, afterward 
a Republican, and served many years as justice of 
the peace. He was a member and elder of the 
Presbyterian Church at Miller's Run, and at Can- 
onsburg, and was a trustee of Jefferson College. 

James Reed, only son of Mathew Reed, was 
reared and educated on the old home place in 
Cecil township, and December 11, 1845, was mar- 
ried to Isabel Johnston, of Washington county, 
Penn. They had four children, namely: Mathew 
M.. Eliza J., Carr and James I., all of whom died 
young. This wife dying January 21, 1857, Mr. 
Reed married, September 15, 1866, Nancy Hays, 
of Canonsburg, Washington Co., Penn. He re- 
mained on the farm until the spring of 1869, 
when failing health compelled him to give up 
agricultural pursuits, and he removed to Canons- 
burg, where he died December 4, 1890. Like his 
father he was a thorough Presbyterian and lib- 
eral supporter of the church. 




,\ILLIAM H. UNDERWOOD is a descend- 
ant of a family of Quakers of that name 
who came to America with William Penn, 
and made a settlement in what is now 
the State of Pennsylvania. The paternal 
grandfather of William H, a tailor by trade, was 
a resident for a time of Fayette county, this State, 
whence he moved to Monongahela, where he died 
about the year 1843, at the age of seventy-seven 
years. 

George Washington Underwood, father of our 
subject, was born February 22, 1814, at Red Stone, 
Fayette Co., Penn., and was reared to the tailor's 
trade. In Monongahela he married Elizabeth Jay, 
a native of this county, and this union being out- 
Bide of the Quaker faith, his name was dropped 
from the list of Society of Friends, as was then 
the custom. When William H. was seven or eight 
years of age the family returned to Fayette county, 
whence, after a stay of some years, they came, in 
1850, to Washington, where the father followed 
tailoring in partnership with George W. Deiver 
for several years, but is now living retired in Erie 
county, at the age of seventy-seven years; the 
mother was called to her long home in 1856, aged 
forty years. 

William H. Underwood is a native of Washing- 
ton county, born in Monongahela, June 4, 1839, 



and was consequently eleven years old when the 
family came to Washington, the common schools of 
which city he attended in his boyhood and early 
youth. He then commenced clerking in a store in 
the borough, continuing iu that capacity until 
1861, when, in response to Lincoln's call for troops 
he enlisted in Company E, Twelfth P. V. I., which 
was ordered to the vicinity of Baltimore, Md. At 
the end of the three months' term he returned, 
invalided with camp fever. In January of the 
following year he re-enlisted for three years, in 
Company A, One Hundredth P. V. I. (" Round 
Heads"), and participated in the memorable expe- 
dition to South Carolina. His war record in this 
regiment is as follows: Mustered in January 1, 
L862; promoted first sergeant May 12, 1865; mus- 
tered out with the company at Harrisburgh, Penn., 
July 24, 1865. Prior to the expiration of his term 
he veteranized, in East Tennessee. He was twice 
wounded, first November 29, 1863, at the sieg<- of 
Knoxville, Tenn., a minie rifle ball breaking his 
jaw. Declining to go to hospital, he tied his face 
up with his handkerchief, and remained on the 
field. The second wound he received June 2, 
1864, at Cold Harbor, where he was struck by a 
minie ball in the right shoulder, which necessitated 
his going to hospital, where he remained until 
September following. After that he was present 
at the siege of Richmond, etc. At the close of the 
war he returned to Washington, and again took up 
clerking, which he followed four years, at the end 
of which time he bought the news-stand now occu- 
pied by McKay & Co., selling out the same in 
1881. In the meantime, in the fall of 1878. he 
had been elected register of wills, in which office 
he served three years. After selling out his news 
business, he remained in Washington, engaged in 
various occupations, until the spring of 1884, when 
he bought a grocery store, carrying it on alone 
until his appointment in 1890 to the postmaster- 
ship of Washington, a position he has since filled 
with credit to himself and satisfaction to the public. 
At the time of his appointment he sold an interest 
in his grocery business to R. B. Dougherty, the 
firm being now Underwood & Dougherty. On 
April 29, 1869, Mr. Underwood married, in Wash- 
ington, Penn., Miss Emma, daughter of Silas 
Clark, whose family (now almost extinct) came to 
the county at an early day. They were for the 
most part stock dealers, and the village of Clarks- 
ville was named after them. Two children were 
born to Mr. and Mrs. Underwood, viz. : Owen 
Clark (who is a graduate of Washington and Jeffer- 
son College, class of 1891, in classics, and is now 
assisting his father in the postoffice), and Homer 
Krepps. Mr. Underwood is a member of the M. 
E. Church, and of William F. Templeton Tost 
No. 120, G. A. R., Department of Pennsylvania. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



697 



age of 
March, 
of her 



J;OSEPH HOWARTH, of the firm of J. How- 
| arth & Son, of the marble, slate, granite and 
! mantel works, Washington, Peun., was born 
at Barnsley, England, January 14, 1826. 
Joseph Howarth,his grandfather, was a stone cut- 
ter in England, where he died. George Howarth, 
father of our subject, also a native of that " little 
spot,'' there married Ann Walker, an English- 
woman, who bore him the following-named chil- 
dren: Ann Elizabeth, widow of William Day, of 
Allegheny, Penn.; Joseph; John, who died in Eng- 
land; Sarah Auna, who died in infancy in Phila- 
delphia; William James, in the marble business in 
Washington, Penn.; Hannah Mary and Emma 
(both deceased), and Emily Mary, deceased wife of 
George A. Lawman, of Pittsburgh. In 1830 George 
Howarth and his wife came to the United States, 
making their first home in Philadelphia, and moved 
to Pittsburgh in 1833. The father died at Se- 
wickley, Penn., in January, 1876, at the 
seventy-nine years; the mother died in 
1881, at Washington, Penn, in the home 
son Joseph, aged seventy-eight years. 

Joseph Howarth, of whom this biographical 
sketch mainly treats, was brought by his parents to 
this country in 1830. He learned his trade of his 
father at Pittsburgh, and in 1865 came to Wash- 
ington, Penn., where he established his present 
prosperous biisiness. In 1874 he erected the build- 
ing at present occupied as a business stand and 
dwelling, in which one store room is rented for a 
grocery. In 1852 he married, at Pittsburgh, Jane, 
daughter of John Tyler. Nine children blessed 
this union, namely: George, in the marble trade at 
Sacramento, Cal.; Elizabeth A., at home; Joseph-' 
ine, married to Rev. J. E. Irvine, of Altoona, Penn. ; 
William E., in partnership with his father; Bertha 
E., Harry A., Annie W. and Edna Jane, all athome. 
Mary A. died in Allegheny. Mr. Howarth is 
the oldest resident marble cutter in Washington, 
and from a very small beginning has made his own 
success, and won an enviable popularity through 
strict attention to business, earnest perseverance, 
judicious ecouomy and unquestionable integrity in 
all his dealings. Politically he is a Republican, 
and has served as a councilman of the borough of 
Washington. 



* 



MARTIN COULSON. Although this gen- 
tleman has been identified with the history 
of Washington for but a short time, he 
^ has already taken a place among the most 
prominent and valued citizens of the com- 
munity. He was born October 6, 1830, on a farm 
on the National road, situated about oue mile east 
of Brownsville, Fayette Co., Penn., and there 
learned the blacksmith's trade of his father, who 
had followed that vocation all his life. 



At the age of eighteen years Martin Coulson left 
home, and, taking a position on a steamboat, 
was rapidly promoted. For thirty-three years he 
served as engineer on the Mississippi, Ohio and 
Missouri rivers, having run on the Missouri river 
for sixteen years, and during the last seven years 
of his river life he was captain. On March 4, 
1857, he married Violet G., daughter of Capt. 
Joseph Sheplar, a native of Westmoreland county, 
Penn. After marriage Mr. and Mrs. Coulson 
resided in Allegheny until 1888 (where they moved 
in the highest social circles), when he purchased 
his present farm, about two miles west of Monon- 
gabela. He has given especial attention to stock 
raising, and now owns nearly fifty blooded trotting 
horses. The place consists of 260 acres, sur- 
rounded by a good fence of pine and cedar, which 
he had erected, and he also erected the buildings 
on the farm. The dwelling is a handsome modern 
structure, fitted and furnished in a manner afford- 
ing ample evidence of the progressive spirit char- 
acterizing the owner. In politics Mr. Coulson 
votes with the Democratic party. He takes an 
active interest in all public enterprises. His chil- 
dren are Joseph S., Mrs. Margaret E. Adams and 
A. K. , all living with their parents on the home 
place. Mrs. Coulson and her daughters are mem- 
bers of the Methodist Church, and are well-known 
society ladies. 



JOHN WHITE was born December 10, 1814, 
in East Pike Run township, Washington 
J Co., Penn., and is a son of Fisher I. White, 
whose father, Benjamin White, was a native 
of Delaware. The last named was a ship- 
builder by trade, and died in his native State. His 
childreu were Fisher I., James, and Sarah (wife 
of John Mcllvaine). 

Fisher I. White was born in 1773, in Delaware, 
and grew to manhood on the home farm, receiving 
a subscription-school education. In early life he 
was married to Helen Joy, who bore him four 
children, namely: Wesley, Mary, William and 
John, the latter being the only living representa- 
tive. The father was identified with the Whig 
party, and served in many township offices. He 
died April 28, 1858, and not long after was fol- 
lowed by his wife to the grave. Both were mem- 
bers of the M. E. Church. 

John White received an education in the neigh- 
borhood of his birthplace, and October 26, 1 843, 
was married to Maria L. Allen, a native of Allen 
township, this county, born October 28, 1822. 
She is a daughter of Abia Allen, and grand- 
daughter of Joshua Allen, whose father, Joseph, 
was a Quaker of eastern Pennsylvania. The last 
mentioned came here, and bought of William 



698 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Penn a large tract of land near the present 
Fayette City. This tract was called in his honor 
" Allen township." He donated the grounds for 
the Mt. Tabor cemetery, in which three genera- 
tions of the Allen family are now sleeping, his 
wife, Deborah (Hill) Allen, being the first tenant 
of a grave there. Joseph Allen became a wealthy 
farmer. Among his children was a son, Joshua, 
who followed his father's agricultural business, 
and, when a young man, married Elizabeth Mc- 
Crory, who bore him eight children, all of whom 
are deceased except Mrs. Stark. 

Abia Allen, son of Joshua and Elizabeth Allen, 
was born in July, 1799, in Allen township. In 
1821 he was united in marriage with Mary Hough, 
born near Mt. Pleasant, December 22, 1799. 
They were the parents of Charlotta, wife of D. 
Morlin, a resident of Allen township; Barbara, wid- 
ow of Wilson Jackman, of Henry county, 111.; A. 
B., living at Cleveland, Ohio; Maria L., wife of 
John White, and two who are deceased. Mr. Al- 
len was a prominent worker in the Republican 
party, and served in various local offices. He 
was a successful farmer, and died in 1849. In 
1886 his wife was laid by his side. Both were 
members of the Disciple Church. To the union of 
John and Maria L. (Allen) White, three children 
were born: Allen J., a resident of Fallow held 
township; Elliott S., a Methodist clergyman of 
Elizabethtown, Allegheny county, and Frank W., 
living at home. The home place contains 148 
well-cultivated acres, upon which Mr. White car- 
ries on practical farming with signal success. He 
is identified with the Republican party, and in re- 
ligious faith he and his wife are members of the 
Ebenezer M. E. Church. 




^ILLIAM IAMS. Prominent among the 
progressive farmers of West Bethlehem 
township is the gentleman whose name 
— ' introduces this sketch. He is a grand- 
son of John lams, a native of New Jersey, 
who in early manhood removed to this county, 
where he secured a patent for nearly one thousand 
acres of land in West Bethlehem and Amwell 
townships, nearly all of which land is yet in the 
possession of his descendants. His children were: 
John, Mary, Sarah, Nancy, Charity and William, 
all of whom were born in Amwell township, where 
they lived and died respected citizens. 

William lams, son of John the pioneer, was born, 
in 1782, near Martins mill, Amwell township, and 
received a liberal education in the common branches 
of the subscription schools. He married Delilah, 
daughter of Elisha Meek, one of the early settlers of 
Greene county, Penn., and to them were born the 
following named children: Betsey (deceased), Miller 
James, John H. (deceased), Elisha, Thomas, 
Isaac, William, Delilah Johnson, Mrs. Mary Bigler 



(deceased), Abraham (deceased) and Rachel Smith. 
Abraham died in the service of his country at the 
battle of Fair Oaks, while a member of the Eighty- 
fifth P. V. I., serving under Capt. Sellers. Miller 
lams resides in Ritchie county, W. Va., where he 
is a well-known farmer; Delilah Johnson and 
Thomas live in Greene county, Penn. ; Isaac resides 
in Amwell township; Elisha, William and Rachel 
are residents of West Bethlehem township. The 
father of this family was a Christian, and a member 
of the Baptist Church; a brilliant Bible scholar and 
faithful toiler in the service of his Master. He was a 
Democrat of the Old School, but, aside from doing 
his duty at the polls, was not prominently iden- 
tified with politics. His death took place in 1868, 
aged seventy-nine years. His wife died in 1877, 
aged eighty-four years. 

William lams, son of William and Delilah lams, 
was born March 2, 1830, on the old homestead farm 
still retained in his possession. In early manhood 
he learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed 
five years, when he turned his attention to farm- 
ing and stock raising, in which he has been very 
successful. He married February 9, 1854, Eliza, 
a daughter of Zebulon and Catherine Ferrel, a na- 
tive of New Jersey, and an early settler of Wash- 
ington county. They have the following family: 
Sadie F., John H. (deceased), an infant (deceased) 
and Laura A. Mrs. Eliza lams died July 8, 1863, 
and on February 13, 1870, he married Mary, 
daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth Swihart. The 
children born to this union were: Etta R. (de- 
ceased), Lizzie B. (deceased), William J., Mary 
E., Miller A., Clark J., Isaac W., Charlie P. and 
Tris M. Miss Laura A. lams, who married 
Samuel Greenlee, resides in Amwell township, also 
Sadie, married to James Hufford. Mr. lams is a 
remarkably intelligent man, and an active member 
of the Democratic party, who have shown their 
appreciation for him by electing him to town- 
ship offices of trust, which he has filled with credit 
to himself and the satisfaction of his constituents. 
He is a member of the Baptist Church, and an 
ardent believer in the teachings of our Lord. 
The home farm consists of 127 acres of very good 
land, upon which he raises a fine breed of cattle 
and sheep. 

i ILLIAM WOLF is descended from a stal- 
wart German family who in an early day 
made a settlement in Washington county. 
Peter Wolf, great-grandfather of pur sub- 
ject, was born in Germany, and prior to 
the French-Indian war in this country emigrated 
from his home on the banks of the Rhine, to seek 
a new one on the less densely populated American 
continent, where 

A man is a man if he's willing to toil, 

And the poorest may gather the fruits of the soil. 




WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



699 1 



When the Wolf family came to Washington 
county they made their home in the dense forest, 
where roamed the wolf, the deer and the bear, and 
the ofttimes less welcome Indian. Here they lived 
in comparative safety in their little log house, en- 
during all the hardships and privations incident 
to pioneer days, and ere they passed from earth 
were eyewitnesses to very many of the changes that 
brought about the development of civilization in 
their midst. At one time the Indians became so 
hostile that the settlers were compelled to seek 
safety in the nearest blockhouse. Peter Wolf 
bought three farms in this county, one for each of 
his sons, William, John and Jacob. Two sons, 
Peter and Cresley, had moved to Ohio, where all 
trace of them is lost. The father died in this coun- 
ty at a very advanced age, and it may here be men- 
tioned that the family have generally been remark- 
ably long-lived. 

William Wolf, grandfather of William, was born 
in Lancaster county, Penn. In 1775 he came to 
Washington county, and soon afterward enlisted 
in the service of Louis Wetzel, the great Indian- 
hunter, as a spy. For some time he taught in 
country schools. In those days the Indians were 
very hostile, and the only protection the settlers 
had was a blockhouse or fort, situated some dis- 
tance off. William Wolf married Miss Susan 
Ashbaugh, who bore him eight children: Mary, 
Betsey, Susan, William, Peter, John. Simon and 
Christopher, all of whom lived to be over eighty 
years of age, except William who died when sixty 
years old. The mother died some time in the 
early part of the present century, and the father 
afterward remarried in Ohio; he died in 1840, 
aged fourscore years, his second wife surviving 
him. Jacob Wolf, his brother, followed farming 
in Buffalo township, and was also a justice of the 
peace. His home was on the road usually taken 
by travelers, and his house frequently served the 
purposes of an inn. One of his daughters, Sabina, 
was a beautiful girl of a comely figure. In 1780, 
when she was eighteen years of age, Judge Hugh 
H. Brackenridge, of Philadelphia, being enroute, in 
company with several friends, for Wheeling, W. 
Va., stopped at her father's house, to seek a night's 
lodging. Sabina was told to "put the gentle- 
man's horse away," and supposing herself unob- 
served sprang lightly on the horse's back, and 
galloped off to the stable. The Judge, however, 
saw the act, and also observed that on her return 
to the house she cleared the fence with a running 
jump. Brackenridge was so delighted at seeing 
such an agile female, so different from city girls, 
that he passed the entire evening in conversation 
with the fair damsel, and became so infatuated 
w,ith her, that, just as he was about to renew his 
journey the following morning, he asked the "old 
squire" for his daughter's hand in marriage. A 



few days later, on his return trip, the Judge again 
stopped at the house of his lady-love, married her 
in her father's house, and took her with him to 
Philadelphia, where he had her educated in a se- 
lect seminary. Some of her descendants are now 
residents of Washington county, where she died 
some twenty years ago. 

Peter Wolf, father of our subject, was a native 
of this county, having been born in the year 1786, 
in Buffalo township, where he was reared to farm 
life, but subsequently learned the trade of cabinet 
maker with John Wilson, of Washington borough, 
where he followed the business forty years. In. 
1849 he was elected sheriff of the county, serving 
three years, and then retired into private life. In 
1813 he married Miss Sarah McGonigal, a lady of 
Irish parentage, and a native of Carlisle, Penn., 
who had come to Washington, Penn., when about 
thirteen years of age. The children born to them 
were William; Elizabeth, wife of William K. 
Shannon, of South Strabane township; Jane, wife 
of John C. Copeland, of Steubenville; Sarah, wife 
of J. H. Bristow, also of Steubenville, and Simon, 
who died in Washington, Penn. The father died 
in 1865 at the age of eighty years, the mother in 
L846, aged fifty years. 

William Wolf, the subject proper of this sketch, 
was born in the borough of Washington, Penn.. 
June 10, 1815. He was educated at the schools 
of the place, and learned the trade of cabinet 
maker, at which he worked in Washington some 
twenty-eight years. For twenty years he has 
been speculating and dealing in real estate. He 
built the John A. Best store, which he afterward 
sold to Mr. Best. In 1836 Mr. Wolf was married 
in Washington to Lavina, daughter of Joseph 
Hallam; they have had no children. He is a Re- 
publican in politics, and during his father's incum- 
bency as sheriff he served as deputy under him. 
He is a Sir Knight Templar, and at one time was 
a member of the I. O. 0. F. Strictly a temper- 
ance man, Mr. Wolf has not tasted liquor for forty 
years, and has never used tobacco in any form. For 
thirty-four years he has lived at the same home, 
in South Strabane township, just outside the bor- 
ough limits. Mr. Wolf has made his own success 
in life, and has accumulated a comfortable com- 
petence. 



EORGE W. STACEY, proprietor of a hand- 
some glassware and china store in Monon- 
gahela, has become prominently identified 
with the interests of that town during his 
short residence within its limits, and is a 
most valued citizen. 

John Stacey, his father, was born in Cut Lam- 
beth, London, England, and coming to America, 
when a young man, settled in Kentucky and fol- 



700 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



/J 



lowed the trade of a marble cutter. After remain- 
ing some time in that State, he came to Allegheny, 
Penn., where he died in 1858. His wife, Louisa, 
was the daughter of John Larcombe, also a native 
of England, who, before coming to America, mar- 
ried Mary Bird. They located at Burgettstown, 
Penn., but after a time moved to a permanent 
home at a place called Joseph's Mills, W. Va. J 
Their children, eight in number, were born as fol- j 
lows: Louisa (Mrs. Stacey), Charles, Martha, Jane, 
George, Levi, Virginia and Ann. The father was 
a stanch advocate of Democratic principles, and 
in religion was a member of the Protestant Epis 
copal Church. He died at his home in 1879. The 
following named children were born to John and 
Louisa Stacey: George W. , John W-, Louisa and 
Deborah. 

George W. Stacey, the subject of this sketch, 
was born October 15, L849, at Allegheny, Penn., 
where he was reared and educated. At the age 
of eighteen years he began working for a mer- 
chant, with whom he remained three years; then 
he embarked in the trading business, which he 
followed seventeen years in different portions of 
Pennsylvania. In 1890 he opened a glassware 
and china store in Monongahela, which is now one 
of the largest and most complete establishments 
of the kind in the Monongahela Valley. Polit- 
ically he is an active Republican. He was married 
August 9, 1886, to Annie, daughter of John 
Freed, a resident of Beaver Falls, Penn. , to whom 
one son was born. 



Hi ENRY RIDER. Among those hardy fron- 
tiersmen whose energy and patient toil have 
made the dreary wilderness "to blossom as 
the rose," the ancestors of this gentleman 
were prominently associated. His grand- 
parents, Chrystopher and Mary Magdalene Rider, 
were early settlers of Fallowtield township, and of 
the children born to them was a son, named John. 
John Rider was born in 1799, in Fallowtield 
township, this county. He attended the subscrip- 
tion schools in early life, and was afterward mar- 
ried in Washington county, to Hannah Budd, who 
who was born in Westmoreland county in 18l>0. 
They settled on a farm adjoining the home place 
in Fallowtield township, and children were born to 
them as follows: Joseph; Henry; Hannah, wife of 
John Carson of East Pike Run township, and five 
who are deceased. The father was a Whig and 
Republican, having served as justice of peace, also 
filling the office of constable for ten or fifteen 
years. He and his wife were members of the Dis- 
ciple Church, of which he was an elder. He died 
in 1882, aged eighty -three years, followed by the 
mother in 1891. 

Henry Rider was born March 10, 1824, on the 



farm in Fallowtield township. From boyhood he 
was trained to agricultural pursuits, which he has 
continued to follow. In early manhood he was 
married to Eliza, daughter of Solomon and Rebecca 
(Sheplar) Cooper, pioneers of this county, now de- 
ceased. The young couple settled on the home- 
stead in Fallowtield township, where his wife died, 
leaving four children, namely: John, Teagarden, 
Rebecca Ann, and Hannah (who is living in Fallow- 
field township). After the death of his first wife 
(June 5, 1859), Henry Rider was married Sep- 
tember 6, 1861, to Rebecca, daughter of Simon 
and Rebecca (Crawford) Wilson, pioneers of Fal- 
lowtield township, who have both been laid to rest. 
After his marriage, Mr. Rider bought 107 acres 
adjoining the homestead, and now owns 239 acres 
of well-cultivated land, where he carries on a gen- 
eral farming and stock raising business. He takes 
an interest in public questions, votes with the Re- 
publican party, has been prominently identified 
with educational progression, and has served as a 
member of the school board. In religious faith he 
is a member of the Disciple Church. Mrs. Rider 
died in 1880, leaving two children, Henry E.-, a 
widower (living on the home place), and Simon. 




ILLIAM BEALL is a representative of a 
family of Scottish pioneers, who were 
early settlers in Brooke (now Hancock) 
county, W. Va. The first ancestor who 
came to West Virginia was Philip Beall, who was 
born in Maryland, of Scotch parentage. In early 
life he came to Hancock county, W. Va., and took 
up a tomahawk claim of 600 acres. The family 
were often compelled to leave their cabin and flee 
for safety from the Indians, to a fort which the 
pioneers had united in erecting. After selecting 
his land, Mr. Beall began to clear ground to plant 
the amount of corn required by law in order to se- 
cure the tract. In the meantime their supplies 
were brought over the mountains from the East, 
and some years later their salt was all brought 
from the East. Philip Beall and his faithful wife 
lived to a ripe old age, and saw the wild country 
around them dotted first with cabins and then 
more substantial homes. Mr. Beall possessed 
great physical strength, and was of massive propor- 
tions, weighing over two hundred pounds. He 
died in 1805, and his wife survived him only a few 
years, when she was buried in "Three Spring" 
cemetery, Hancock Co., W. Va. Nine children 
were born to these pioneers, seven daughters and 
two sons, of whom William moved to Jefferson 
county, Ohio, where he died. 

Philip Belli, youngest son of Philip, was born in 
1793, in Hancock county, W. Va. He attended 
the rude schools of that time until the death of his 
father, when the care of the farm fell upon him 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



701 



aud his brother William. The former was not yet 
thirteen years of age, but he went bravely to work, 
and, preparing the ground, the boys each planted 
ten acres of corn and oats, using the clumsy im- 
plements which were then provided. Philip re- 
mained on the home farm until after the death of 
his mother, when, the old place being sold, he lived 
for some time with a brother-in-law. In early 
manhood he was married to Mary Gibson, who 
was born in 1800 in Washington county, Penn., a 
daughter of James and Elizabeth (Campbell) Gib- 
son. The following children were born to them: 
Elizabeth (died in early girlhood), Mary Ann (de- 
ceased wife of John Carson, Stark county, Ohio), 
William (whose sketch follows), Rebecca (Mrs. 
James Morrison, of Paris, Penn.), James (living in 
Kansas), Melinda (an unmarried lady, of Salem, 
Ohio), Nancy (deceased) and Philip (of Salem, 
Ohio). The parents began married life in Han- 
over township, this county, and in 1827 came to 
the home farm, where the father passed the re- 
mainder of his active life. He was a popular citi- 
,zen, and in politics was a lifelong Democrat, be- 
ing an enthusiastic supporter of his party. Al- 
though not a church member, Mr. Beall contrib- 
uted liberally to the U. P. Church at Paris, of 
which his wife was a member. He died October 
24, 1860. His wife died September 12, 1849. 
They are buried in the Paris cemetery. 

William Beall, son of Philip and Mary (Gibson) 
Beall, was born December 11, 1826, in Hanover 
township. When a young man he learned the 
blacksmith's trade at Frankfort, Penn., which he 
followed a year and a half. He then sustained an 
injury which necessitated his temporary absence 
from the anvil, and finally compelled him to aban- 
don the business. He returned to the farm, and 
followed rural pursuits until 1852; then joined in 
the California Argonauts, making the trip from St. 
Joseph, Mo., to Placerville (then "Hangtown"), 
Cal., in 104 days. He remained in California six 
years and eight months, returning via Aspinwall, 
Panama City autl New York, and resumed work on 
his father's farm. In the fall of 1S60 he married 
Margaret Ann, born in 1836, in Smith township, a 
daughter of Robert and Mary (Reed) McCready. 
The following children were born to them: Mary 
L. (Mrs. Seward Walker, of Toronto, Ohio), Harry 
E. (a skilled railroad man in Nevada), James A. (a 
farmer of Hanover township), Addie L. (Mrs. Dr. 
Mayo Patterson, of Greensburg, Penn. ), Laura V. 
{wife of Thomas McWright, of Hanover township), 
Dessa L.. William C. and Alvie J., all of whom 
are living at home. After his marriage William 
Beall located on a farm which he had previously 
purchased near Florence, Penn., and when the old 
homestead was sold in 1864, he purchased it, and 
took up his residence there. The old place has 
been greatly improved under his care, and is now 



adorned by a fine residence. He cultivates small 
fruits, aud was formerly interested in the wool bus- 
iness, but now devotes his principal attention to a 
dairy. In politics Mr. Beall is a lifelong Demo- 
crat, taking au active interest in his party. Both 
he and his wife are members of the United Presby- 
terian Church at Paris, and all the family are 
highly esteemed. 



f | AMES BROWN TENAN. A record of the 
substantial citizens of Washington county 
it)] would be incomplete were the names of this 
^^ representative family of Smith township not 
included in the list. They were among the large 
number of pioneers who emigrated from Ireland to 
America during the eighteenth century. 

James Tenan was born in 1758, in County Lon- 
donderry, Ireland, where he was educated. Soon 
after the close of the Revolution the young man 
crossed the ocean to America in a small sailing 
vessel, and in the course of time located in Penn- 
sylvania. He married Jane Brown, near the town 
of Octoraro, Lancaster county, where they re- 
mained until 1785, when they purchased and 
settled upon a small tract of laud in Smith town- 
ship, this county, where the following named chil- 
dren were born: John, Robert, James, William, 
Mary and Moses. Mr. Tenan (who then spelled 
his name Tynan) united with the Democratic 
party. In religion he was an early member of the 
Associate Reformed Church. He died in 1S40, 
having been preceded to the grave by his wife in 
1836. 

James Tenan, son of James and Jane (Brown) 
Tenan, was born in 1796, in Smith township, and 
received his education in the subscription schools 
of the neighborhood. In 1829 he was united in 
marriage with Margaret, daughter of George M. 
McCullough, a native of Lancaster county, Penn. 
Mr. McCullough grew to manhood there, and there 
married Agnes Gibson, to whom the following 
named children were born: Christina (Mrs. James 
Wilson), Agnes (wife of Thomas McCullough), 
Susan, Jane (Mrs. Joseph McNall), Mary (wife of 
James Brown) and Margaret (Mrs. James Tenan). 
Mr. McCullough came to Washington county and 
settled on a 400-acre tract of land in Smith town- 
ship, where his life was passed. He brought a 
few slaves with him to Washington county, where 
they remained until they died. Politically he 
was a Federalist, and in religion a member of the 
Presbyterian Church at Florence, where both he 
and his wife were buried. James and Margaret 
(McCullough) Tenan passed their married life on 
the home place iu Smith township, and to their 
union two sons were born, viz. : George McCul- 
lough and James Brown. The father was liberal 
in his political views, and voted with the Jackson- 



702 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



ian Democrats. In religious faith he was a mem- 
ber and liberal supporter of the Associate Re- 
formed Church until his death, which occurred 
April 1, 1859. 

James Brown Tenan was born September 14, 
1832, the day of the burning of New York City, in 
Smith township, where he received a common- 
school education. On June 5,1860, he married Mary, 
daughter of Jonas Amspoker, of Smith township, 
and to this union one son, Douglas, was born 
(died at the age of three years). On March 21, 
1864, the mother died, and for his second wife 
Mr. Tenan married, at Philadelphia, in October, 
1870, Harriet E., daughter of William H. Bozinan, 
of McConnellsville, Morgan Co. , Ohio. Her par- 
ents are both deceased; the father died in Septem- 
ber, 1860, and the mother died at Athens, Ohio. 
In politics Mr. Tenan is an active Democrat, and 
with the exception of three years, spent at Athens, 
Ohio, has been a resident of Burgettstown ever 
since. He is a member and earnest supporter of 
the United Presbyterian Church at Burgettstown, 
Mrs. Tenan being a member of the M. E. Church. 
On the farm in Smith township, which is situated 
two miles from Burgettstown, are two oil wells, 
with fair prospects for others. Mr. Tenan had 
(on his mother's side) two aunts (McCullough by 
name), who lived to be over ninety years of age. 



AMUEL McCOY (deceased), a pioneer farm- 
er of Chartiers township, is a son of John 
and Lydia McCoy, who came to Pennsylva- 
nia about the time of the Revolution, and 
took out a patent of the land in Chartiers township, 
Washington county, where the widow of Samuel 
McCoy is now living. John and Lydia McCoy re- 
mained on the farm until their death, and reared 
the following children: Elizabeth, born Decem- 
ber 2, 1801; Agues, born September 23, 1803; 
Nancy, born January 19, 1805; Robert (deceased 
September 19, 1819), born January 25, 1808; Neal 
(living in Washington county, Penn.), born Sep- 
tember 16, 1813; John (deceased October 24, 
L889, in this county), born September 13, 1815; 
Samuel, born September 17, 1817; and Lydia 
(Mrs. William McWilliams of Cauonsburg), born 
May 27, 1820. 

.Samuel McCoy, whose name opens this sketch, 
was born on the farm in Chartiers township, this 
county, remaining at home during his boyhood 
and receiving an education at the subscription 
schools of the vicinity. On March 3, 1859, he was 
married at Paris, Penn., to Isabelle Anderson, a 
native of Hancock county, Va., and daughter of 
Alexander and Anne (Anderson) Anderson, both of 
whom were also born in Hancock county. Alex- 
ander Anderson learned the carpenter's trade, 
which he followed, and in I860 moved with his 



family to Washington county, Penn., settling in 
Washington borough. He died a few years later, 
and his widow survived him many years. Their 
children were Isabelle (Mrs. Samuel McCoy), Sally 
(widow of Robert Andrews, living in Prosperity, 
this county), Nancy (Mrs. Joshua Hartman, resid- 
ing in Liverpool, Ohio, wife of John Arnold, both 
deceased), Elizabeth Hattie (living in Washing- 
ton), Minnie (deceased in November, 188'.)), Alfred 
(enlisted in Washington county in the war, and 
was killed at the battle of Gettysburg), William 
(married), a blacksmith in Nebraska, and John, 
who died a few years ago. 

Samuel McCoy passed his married life on the 
place where his widow is now residing, and fol- 
lowed agricultural pursuits. Five children were 
born to his union with Isabelle Anderson, namely: 
Mary, born March 5, 1860; Lydia Ann, born March 
19, 1862 (married on September 9, 1885, to Sam- 
uel Fee); Samuel (deceased October 8, 1866), born 
June 16, 1864; John, born February 24, 1867; 
and Elizabeth, born October 2, 1869. The father 
of this family died October 9, 1871, in Chartiers 
township, at the age of fifty-five years. During 
life he took an interest in political questions, vot- 
ing with the Democratic party, but preferred to 
spend the greater part of his time in home work. 
The old home farm, where Mrs. McCoy is now 
living has been in the possession of the family for 
more than a century, and is a valuable piece of 
property. 



'/ 



V\/If KS ELMIRA REDD is a daughter of 
x//\ John Conrad, and the widow of Thomas 
*! I C. Redd, who was a son of Solomon Redd. 
■* The latter was born in Washington county, 
Penn., and there married to Mary, daughter 
of Squire Scott, also a native of this county. The 
children of Solomon and Mary Redd were as fol- 
lows: Thomas C. (deceased), Samuel, Sarah A. 
I wife of .lame-. Wygant), Margaret (married to Will- 
iam Dicky), Susan (wife of Dr. Riggs), John, Sol- 
omon and Parke (the last named being deceased). 
The father was a farmer, also a boatman on the 
Ohio aDd Monongahela rivers. In politics he 
voted with the Whig and Republican parties, and 
he was a member of the Baptist Church. 

Thomas C. Redd was born April 12, 1822, on the 
home farm in Fallowtield township, Washington 
Co., Penn., and received his education in the sub- 
scription schools of the neighborhood. He then 
worked on the farm, and also went on the river 
with his father to New Orleans. On September 
25, 1851, he was united in marriaee with Elmira 
Conrad, and the following children have been born 
to their union: Marion P., Josephine, Melissa E., 
John H. , S. Ellsworth, William Henry, Marguer- 
ite and Charles F. The parents resided for twenty 





?<2JZcf. 





■SSK * 





WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



711 



linen, towels, etc. Shoemakers would carry their 
tools on their backs from house to house, and 
"shoe the families" for the winter season; in sum- 
mer time they generally went without shoes. 

Henry Moninger, son of John Mouinger, the 
pioneer of the family, was born in 1789 in Shunks- 
town, Md. , and came with the rest to Washington 
county, where he followed farming, and was ex- 
tensively engaged in stock buying, driving cattle 
to Baltimore and Philadelphia. He also dealt 
largely in real estate, and finally purchased a farm 
in Brooke county, W. Va., to which he moved, 
dying there in 1864. He was a member of the 
Disciple Church. In early manhood he was mar- 
ried to Susan Hass, who bore him children as 
follows: John, George, Mary (wife of Isaac lams), 
Henry, Ann (wife of Jackson Closser), Jackson, 
Jacob, Catherine, Sarah (wife of William Gilmore) 
and Elizabeth. The mother of these children died 
June 29, 1841, at the age of fifty years, and some 
time in the following year the father married Mrs. 
Sarah Pettit (nee Hughes), by whom he had three 
children: Robert (deceased), James A. and Emma. 
Politically Mr. Moninger was a Whig, and he took 
an active part in building up the community in 
which he lived. 

Jacob Moninger, subject of sketch, was reared 
on the home place, and received his education at 
the schools of the neighborhood. While yet young 
he was wont to assist his father in driving live 
stock to the Eastern markets, walking the entire 
distance each way. He seems to have inherited 
his father's penchant for real estate dealing, and 
has, probably, owned and improved more farms in 
Washington county than any other resident. On 
February 10, 1846, Mr. Moninger was united in 
marriage with Mary, daughter of Samuel Vance, 
and by her had four children: John, Martha (Mrs. 
John Chambers), Margaret (Mrs. Albert McElree) 
and Samuel. This wife dying July 2, 1856. Mr. 
Moninger on January 28, 1858, married Elizabeth, 
daughter of William Fife, and she bore him seven 
children, named as follows: Morgan, Joseph, 
William, Frank, Harry, George and Charles E. 
Mr. Moninger is a member of the Second Presby- 
terian Church at Washington; in politics he was 
first a Whig, and has, since the formation of the 
party, been a strong Republican. His present 
commodious and elegant residence in South Stra- 
bane township is one of the pleasantest in his sec- 
tion. He was a large stock dealer in Washington 
and adjoining counties, his business running into 
the hundred thousands yearly; but now in his old 
age he is resting quietly on his farm, one mile 
and a half north of Washington. 

[Since the above was prepared for the press, we have 
information of the sudden death, April 1, 1893, from apo- 
plexy, of Mr. Jacob Moninger. — Ed. 




AXWELL WORK. Although this gen- 
tleman has but recently become a citizen 
of Washington county, he is already 
prominently identified with its business, 
political and social interests. He is a son 
of Alexander and Prudence (Rankin) Work (the 
former of whom was a resident of Fayette coun- 
ty, Penn.), and was born December 8, 1856, on 
the home farm in Dunbar township, Fayette 
county. His brother's name is Winfield S., and 
his sister's name is Nancy Jane. His boyhood 
was passed in the various employments usual to 
agricultural life, the monotony of which was varied 
with a few months' attendance at the common 
schools each winter. As he was the eldest son, 
the greater portion of the work fell to his share, 
thus depriving the boy of enjoying even the prim- 
itive educational advantages within his reach. But 
the keen observation of an intelligent mind sup- 
plemented the lack of literary training, and he has 
become one of the most successful business men 
of the county. On January 12, 1S77, he married 
Susan Hair, who was born February 18, 1859, in 
Dunbar township, Fayette Co., Penn., a daughter 
of Daniel and Harriet (Work) Hair. Three chil- 
dren were born to the union of Maxwell and Susan 
(Hair) Work, namely: Maud D., Bessie F. and 
one deceased in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Work 
passed the first thirteen years of married life on a 
farm in Fayette county, Penn., residing there un- 
til 1891, in which year they came to Smith town- 
ship, Washington county, locating in Cherry Val- 
ley, on the Thomas McFarland farm, a well-im- 
proved and valuable tract of land upon which they 
are yet residing. Mr. Work is a very progressive 
farmer, ever ready to assist in all worthy enter- 
prises, and takes an active interest in the success 
of the Republican party, of which he is an active 
member. 



DANIEL WILSON SOWERS, one of West 
\ Bethlehem's most enterprising and repre- 
/ sentative citizens, is a grandson of George 
Sowers, who was born in Maryland about 
the year 1813. While yet a boy the grandfather 
came to West Bethlehem township, Washington 
Co., Penn., thus becoming one of those bold 
pioneer settlers who inaugurated a work which 
their descendants are now carrying on to comple- 
tion — the formation and improvement of Washing- 
ton county. George Sowers was married to a 
daughter of Daniel Gardner, one of the earliest 
settlers of West Bethlehem township. Mr. Sowers 
spent his life as a farmer in that township, and 
died at the advanced age of seventy-eight years. 
Levi Sowers, the only son of George Sowers, 
passed his boyhood in the usual manner of pioneer 



712 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



boys, attending the old log sehoolhouse with its 
great fireplace, slab benches and primitive fur- 
nishings. He married Samantha Enoch, and to 
them were born the following children: Andrew 
J., Warren, Elizabeth J., Daniel Wilson, Cathe- 
rine, MaryO, David Enoch, Madison B. , Aman- 
da, Elmer and George W., all of whom, except 
Mary and Madison, are yet living; David is a 
prominent attorney, and resides in Topeka, Ivans. 
The others are residents of West Bethlehem town- 
ship. 

Daniel Wilson, son of Levi Sowers, was born 
July 30, 1848, in the old stone house, on the farm 
which adjoins his present home, and which is now 
the property of his brother Warren. His educa- 
tion was very good for the period. On May 9, 
1S72, he married Belle Oiler, a daughter of Jona- 
than Oiler, of West Bethlehem township, and 
their children are Thorman Tilden and Maggie 
May, both residing at home with their parents. 
Politically Mr. Sowers is a Democrat, and has 
served in the offices of supervisor and auditor of 
the township where he resides. He is an esteemed 
citizen, respected by all who know him. 



i MrRS. MARGARET A. HARRISON is a 

\gM\ daughter of Andrew Bryce, a native of 
Y( 1 1 Scotland, who was there married to Jane 
^1 Gilchrist. Mr. and Mrs. Bryce settled 
V in Fayette county, Penn., where he fol- 

lowed the trade of miller, conducting the mill 
at Merrittstown for many years. Mrs. Margaret 
A. Harrison had two sons by her former marriage, 
October 14, 1845, to Samuel Edmiston, namely: 
William Alexander, cashier of the Monongahela 
National Bank, Fayette county, Penn. , and James 
M., superintendent of the water- works at Atchison, 
Ivans. On March 2, 1805, Mrs. Margaret A. Ed- 
miston was married to George W. Harrison, son 
James Harrison. 

James Harrison was born in Maryland, where 
he remained until about forty years of age. In 
early manhood he was united in marriage with 
Elizabeth Hedgel, a native of Berkeley county, 
W. Va., who bore him the following children: 
William, George W. , James, Joseph (all born in 
West Virginia), Eliza (deceased), Mrs. Harriet 
Van Gilder (living in Centreville, Washington Co., 
Penn.) and Maria (deceased). In 1817 the family 
moved to Washington county, "Penn., where the 
father was a cropper for several years, then rented 
a farm and finally settled near West Brownsville, 
Penn. He died in 1825, his widow in 1801. In 
politics he was an active member of the Whig 
party. 

George W. Harrison was born in 1812, on the 
eastern shore of Maryland, and when yet a small 
boy came with his parents to Pennsylvania. His 



father died soon afterward, leaving no property, 
and, being the eldest of the family, much of the 
care of his mother and the younger children fell 
upon his youthful shoulders. The child bravely 
accepted the heavy responsibility thus suddenly 
thrust upon him, and continued to bear his share 
of the burden until the younger ones were old 
enough to support themselves. He was then re- 
leased from that duty, but continued to work 
industriously, and carefully saved his earnings un- 
til he had accumulated a sufficient amount with 
which to purchase thirty acres of land in East 
Bethlehem township, this county. After buying 
this place he proceeded to cultivate it to the 
highest extent, and soon sold it at a good profit, 
then went with his brother Joseph to Indiana, 
where they bought a farm which he also sold at 
a good price. The brothers then returning to 
Washington county, Penn., purchased a handsome 
place on the National pike, in East Bethlehem town- 
ship, where they resided together for one year. 
At the expiration of that time George W. sold his 
share to his brother, who is yet living on the place. 
After disposing of this property George W. Har- 
rison bought 123 acres of well-improved, valuable 
land, upon which a handsome brick edifice has 
been erected. Mr. Harrison won his success by 
years of patient toil, and when he had attained 
prosperity was ever ready to lend a helping hand 
to others who were struggling upward. In politics 
he was a valued member of the Republican party, 
but invariably declined the political honors of 
which his friends vainly urged acceptance. The 
latter years of his life were filled with pain, and he 
was laid to rest January 5, 1890, in the beautiful 
"God's acre" adjoining the Taylor M. E. church. 
Since the death of her husband Mrs. Harrison has 
continued to reside in her pleasant home, person- 
ally superintending the work of the farm. Her 
only daughter, Lillian, a cultured young lady, is 
living with her mother, and whose son, George W., 
died in infancy. 




JLLIAM COVENTRY, one of the best 
known and substantial citizens of Han- 
over township, traces his ancestry to 
the "Emerald Isle," from whose shores 
so many of our early pioneers had sailed. 
John Coventry was born in 1750, in County Done- 
gal, Ireland, where he learned the trad* of a weaver^ 
and when a young man was married to Martha 
Brown, who was born in 1754. Some years after 
their marriage this young couple sailed for America. 
After their landing and securing a temporary home 
in eastern Pennsylvania, their household effects 
were moved thence in a churn, and their only child 
was carried by the parents. John Coventry joined 
the Continental army, taking an active part in the 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



713 



struggle for independence, and undergoing the 
terrible sufferings which were the common lot of 
those heroic patriots. Long and difficult marches 
were made, their only food consisting of cold po- 
tatoes. After the war money was almost worth- 
less, and the most common articles sold for fabu- 
lous prices. A little dress which was purchased 
for a son, cost $60 in Continental currency. In 
17N2 John Coventry and family concluded to se- 
cure one of the cheap homes offered to the settlers 
in western Pennsylvania, and packing up their 
few earthly possessions, started on foot to make 
the long and tedious journey across the mountains. 
The hardships which they endured can not be im- 
agined, yet on they toiled, carrying their little son 
Robert, who was at that time about two years of 
age. At last they arrived at Hanover township, 
Washington Co., Penn., and purchasing a small 
piece of land, erected their rude log cabin in the 
midst of the surrounding woods, and there Mr. 
Coventry followed his trade of a weaver in con- 
nection with farming. This cabin was soon sup- 
planted by one more substantial, which is yet 
standing. With true Irish enterprise and indus- 
try John Coventry struggled on, and prosperity 
finally crowned bis patient efforts. When the 
need of a permanent piece of ground for a school- 
house became apparent, he gave the necessary 
amount of land to be used for ninety-nine years, 
and the building which was there erected has ever 
since been known as the "Coventry School." In 
politics he was a Democrat, adhering to the princi- 
ples of his party. He and his wife were members 
of the Seceder Church, which was nearly ten miles 
from their home, and walked the entire distance. 
A church was afterward organized at Burgetts- 
town, to which their membership was then trans- 
ferred. John Coventry died February 5, 1S45, in 
his ninety-fifth year, and was laid to rest by the 
side of the wife who had gone before him April 8, 
1832. Both were buried in the U. P. cemetery at 
Burgettstown, Penn. The following children were 
born to this heroic couple: Robert (deceased in 
Hanover township), William (of whom a sketch 
follows), James, John (a school teacher, who lived 
some time at Steubenville, Ohio, thence moving to 
Philadelphia, Ohio, where some of his descendants 
are yet living), Jane (deceased), Elizabeth (deceased 
wife of William Smiley), and Martha (deceased). 
William Coventry, son of John and Martha 
(Brown) Coventry, was born in 1782, having been 
the first member of the Coventry family who was 
born in Hanover township. He was reared amid 
the usual scenes of pioneer life, attending a few 
months in each year at the subscription schools. 
In 1815 he selected a life companion in the person 
of Rebecca Ramsey, who was born in 1791, a 
daughter of Robert Ramsey, who was born east of 
the mountains and came to Washington county. 



The children of William and Rebecca Coventry 
were as follows: Martha, deceased in Carroll 
county, Ohio, married Thomas Smiley ; Mary, Mrs. 
Hamilton Walker, of Carroll county, Ohio; John, 
a carpenter of New Brighton. Penn.; Robert R., 
deceased farmer of Hanover township; James, a 
citizen of Des Moines, Iowa; Elizabeth, wife of J. 
H. Lawther, Carroll county, Ohio; William, whose 
name opens this sketch; and David, living at East 
Liverpool, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Coventry settled 
on Brush run, two miles from Florence, this 
county, where he successfully followed farming. 
He was fond of reading, and had a practical and 
thorough education. He was a member of the 
Seceder Church, and in politics was a Democrat, 
serving in numerous township offices, taking a 
lively interest in all the political and social ques- 
tions of the day. He died February 26, 1850, 
followed, March 25, 1872, by his wife, who rests 
beside him in the U. P. cemetery at Burgettstown. 
William Coventry was born January 2, 1830, on 
a farm adjoining his present home, and attended 
the rude schools of those days, with their rude 
furnishings; wooden benches, an old, rickety door, 
and a stove which was accustomed to fall down at 
the slightest provocation, to the great delight of 
the weary urchins and the discomfiture of the 
dignified master. On February 18, 1857, William 
Coventry was married to Sarah Spence, who was 
born February 16, 1835, in Beaver county, Penn., 
a daughter of John and Mary (Adams) Spence. 
The young couple located on the farm on Brush 
run, where they are yet living, about two-thirds of 
which Mr. Coventry has cleared, and by incessant 
toil and labor has succeeded in converting it from 
an unbroken forest into a fertile, producing tract 
of land. He thoroughly understands every depart- 
ment and detail of agriculture, having won a 
signal success in this vocation. He votes the 
Democratic ticket, having been called upon to fill 
various offices in Hanover township, which he has 
done with great credit to himself, and to the 
satisfaction of all. Three daughters were born to 
this couple, namely: Rebecca J., Mary Agnes and 
Elizabeth A., all of whom died of diphtheria in 
October, 1864; thus leaving the parents childless, 
but living in the anticipation of a glad reunion on 
the other shore. They are both consistent mem- 
bers of the Frankfort U. P. Church. 



JfOHN C. LOFINK was bom on the Atlantic 
Ocean, May 30, 1844, and arrived at Balti- 
J more, Md., with his mother, Anastasia, her 
four brothers (Joseph Lofink, Louis Lofink, 
Simon Lofink and Frank Lofink) and his 
little sister, Laviua, when he was two weeks old. 
He was baptized in St. John's Church at Balti- 
more, and then was taken to Pittsburgh, where the 



714 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



family lived for some time before their removal to 
Caseyville, Ky. In Pittsburgh the mother married 
George Green, by whom she had two children: 
Francis and Tone. In Kentucky John C. Lofink 
worked for Mr. Bell (the candidate of the Free-Soil 
party), but left that State in 1862 to learn mechan- 
ical engineering at Pittsburgh. Owing to the de- 
pressed condition of this branch of industry at 
that city he went to Monongahela City and found 
work in the coal mines there. 

Mr. Lorink was married June 20, 1864, to Hester 
Burgan, daughter of Peter and Mary Burgan. 
This lady was born at Minersville, Penn. They 
are the parents of twelve children, namely: John, 
Peter, Frank, Joseph, Samuel, James, Mary, Eliza- 
beth, Annabel, Lena, Jane and Catherine. In 
Centennial year James, Jane and Catherine (trip- 
lets) were born. Of this large family there are 
eight children living. The maternal grandfather 
of these children was a centenarian, and the 
grandmother sixty-four years old. Both were of 
French descent. The paternal grandfather is not 
remembered by even the father, but Mrs. Anastasia 
Lofink died when the subject of this sketch was 
only rive years old. The family have resided on 
the Riverview farm in Carroll township for over 
twenty years. Here Mr. Lofink owns forty-five 
acres, devoted to agriculture. On the land is a 
valuable deposit of coal which he has developed. 
He carries on a store here and is the postmaster of 
this section. .The members of the family are 
Catholics. Politically Mr. Lofink votes with the 
Democrats of Pennsylvania for State and National 
officials and legislators. 



fl( DAMS GILLILAND, a highly esteemed 
// \\ c 't' zeri °f Buffalo township, was born June 
lf^\ 6, 1826, in Hopewell township, Washing- 
JJ — i ton Co.. Penn., on the farm of his father, 
where he remained several years after at- 
taining his majority. His father was a native of 
Maryland, and came to Washington county in early 
life, settling on a farm in Hopewell township, 
where for several years he successfully followed 
agricultural pursuits. He died by an accident in 
1831, and his widow and our subject then moved 
to Pleasant Hill, near West Middletown, where the 
latter lived till he was fourteen years old, when he 
lived with Asa Manchester, a wealthy farmer, in 
Independence township, sometimes by the month 
and sometimes bv the year. His mother was born 
in 1787, died February 1, 1869. 

On April 4, 1849, Adams Gilliland was united 
in marriage with Louisa Low, who was born June 
11, 1.N24, in West Virginia, a granddaughter of 
David Low, a rich planter of the same place, and 
a daughter of John Low, who lived in Brooke 
county, Va. , in the days of slavery, and was the 



owner of many slaves. David Low died in 1840, 
and John, his only son, in 1871. Mary Bryson, 
beloved wife of John Low, died January 6, 1860. 
She was born in Indian times, a daughter of John 
Bryson, a native of Ireland, who came to this 
country in early life, and married a French lady 
named Priscilla Lafevers; they settled on a farm 
near Dunsfort, situated on Buffalo creek in Wash- 
ington county. It 1861 Mr. Gilliland removed to 
his present place in Buffalo township. He has 
been industrious and progressive, and all he has is 
the result of his own individual efforts. He re- 
ceived nothing from his father's estate, as there 
were other heirs. In political preferences he is an 
ardent advocate of the principles embodied in the 
platform of the Democratic party, but has never 
been an aspirant for political office. 



J) 



born to Elijah and 

Isaac, Free Gift, 

The father was a 



Mi RS. RACHEL BELL, a well-known and 
highly esteemed lady of Burgettstown, is 
a daughter of Free Gift Crawford, son of 
■* Elijah Crawford, and representative of one 
of the oldest families in Smith township. 
Elijah Crawford was born in eastern Pennsylva- 
nia, and on June 22, 1778, was united in marriage 
with Elizabeth, daughter of Free Gift and Eliza- 
beth Stout. They afterward moved to Smith town- 
ship, Washington Co., Penn., there purchasing 
an unimproved farm, and became the first settlers 
of that locality. The men were obliged to carry 
guns with them to their work to defend themselves 
from the Indians lurking near. Amid these scenes 
the following children were 
Elizabeth Crawford: Joseph, 
Rebecca, Elizabeth and Anna, 
surveyor, and also served under Gen. Washington 
in the Revolutionary war. In politics he was a 
Democrat, and in religion a member of the Pres- 
byterian Church at Florence, this county, where 
he and his wife were buried. 

Free Gift Crawford was born October 22, 1785, 
in eastern Pennsylvania, where his boyhood was 
passed, afterward coming with his parents to 
Washington county. On January 12, 1811, he 
was married to Sarah, daughter of Thomas Cole, 
a native of Maryland. Mr. Cole was married to 
Nancy Hunter, who bore him children as follows: 
Sarah, Abraham, Thomas, William, Rachel, Betsy 
and Nancy. The father was a Democrat in politics, 
and in religion a member of the M. E. Church. 
Mr. and Mrs. Crawford passed their married life 
in Smith township, where he followed farming 
and milling, also teaming over the mountains. The 
mill was first called the "Scott mill'' and then the 
"Burgettstown mill.'' They kept the hotel in 
Burgettstown for thirty years. Free Gift Craw- 
ford was also an extensive dealer in stock. In 
polities he voted with the Democratic party, and 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



in 



he held various township offices; in church relation 
he was connected with the Baptist denomination, 
Mrs. Crawford being a member of the Presbyterian 
Church. «He died in 1854, aged seventy-six years, 
followed in 187*3 by his widow at the age of ninety- 
one years; both are buried in the cemetery at 
Florence, this county. They were the parents of 
five children, viz. : Thomas (deceased), Elijah (de- 
ceased), Sarah (first married to Benjamin F. Wood, 
afterward to John McCartney), Margaret and 
Rachel. Of these Rachel Crawford was married 
August 28, 1861, to George W., son of Samuel 
Bell, proprietor of the Frankfort Springs at that 
time. 

Samuel Bell was born in Washington county, 
and in early life was married to Malvina Sowers, 
also a native of the county. Their children were: 
George W., Mattie, William, Delia (wife of W. K. 
Bailey) and James (deceased). Mr. Bell traveled 
for a wholesale house in Philadelphia until 1SN0, 
when he moved to Clark county. Mo. Tu politics 
he was a Whig, and in religion an active member 
of the M. E. Church, taking a prominent part in 
the Sunday-school and church work. 

George W. Bell was born September 12, 1834, 
in Beallsville, Washington Co., Penn. He was ed- 
ucated at Washington and Jefferson College, and 
after graduating attended Jefferson Medical Col- 
lege, Philadelphia, receiving his degree in 1858. 
He graduated with first honors in a class of 600 
students, and was the valedictorian of the class. 
He read medicine with Dr. Wilson, of Beallsville, 
where he practiced his profession a short time, 
afterward locating permanently in Burgettstown, 
where he practiced for thirty-six years. He won 
an enviable reputation as a skilled physician, and 
enjoyed a lucrative practice. In politics he was a 
stanch Republican, and in religious faith he was a 
member of the U. P. Church at Burgettstown. To 
his marriage with Rachel Crawford was born one 
child, Samuel, who died at the age of two years 
and four months. Dr. Bell was called to rest from 
his labors September 6, 1884, at the age of fifty- 
one years. The remains of the deceased, by his 
own request, made some time prior to his death, 
were taken to Washington, where the body under- 
went the process of cremation, and the sleeping dust 
"was finally placed in the Beallsville cemetery. 

Far away in the land of the pure and the bright, 
la the city of God, with its golden light; 
Oh, there is our home, and we ever shall stand 
'Mid the shining ones of that better land. 

Oh, that beautiful land we are nearing now, 
Where a crown of bright glory encircles each brow; 
Where the tree of life grows on that beautiful shore, 
Where flowers shall freshen to fade no more. 

Oh! beautiful home, oh! beautiful home, 
Where beautiful saints surround the white throne; 
How I long to be there and forever to stand 
'Mid the shining ones of that Better Laud. 



DR. WILLIAM S. DODD, a leading physi- 
\ cian of Charleroi, is a representative of one 
/ of the oldest and most distinguished families 
of Pennsylvania. Their lives were indissolu- 
ble linked with the early history of Washington 
county, with whose progress they were most prom- 
inently identified. 

Rev. Cephas Dodd, M. D. and D. D., son of the 
famous Rev. Thaddeus Dodd, was born October 1 2, 
1779, on Ten-Mile stream, Washington county, Penn. 
Cephas Dodd took a thorough classical course at the 
Canonsburg Academy, then studied theology with 
Rev. John McMillan. In 1801 he began preaching 
in Ohio, and in 1817 came to the church at Ten- 
Mile, Washington county, Penn. He then began to 
study medicine, and being finally led to believe 
that he could do more good as a physician than 
pastor, devoted his later years principally to med- 
ical work. 

Thaddeus Dodd, a son of Cephas, was born 
March 22, 1810, near Amity, Amwell township, 
Washington county, Penn. His early education 
was obtained at the subscription schools, and he 
then took acourse of study at Washington College. 
He afterward attended medical lectures at Jeffer- 
son Medical College, Philadelphia, having pre- 
viously studied with his father. After receiving 
his degree, Dr. Dodd began to practice his profes- 
sion in Millsborough, Washington Co., Penn., 
where he remained about three years, and then 
lived in West Bethlehem township a short time. 
He afterward moved to Amity, and ten years later 
located in Dunuingsville, remaining there four 
years, and finally returning to Amity. On April 
24, 1860, he was united in marriage with Mary 
Stockdale, who was born February 8, 1817, 
daughter of William Stockdale, a native of Greene 
county. The following children were born to the 
union of Thaddeus and Mary Dodd: Hannah, born 
September 16, 1840, deceased February 28, 1847; 
Cephas D., born July 16, 1842, a decorator by 
trade, living in Montgomery, Ala. ; Agnes B. , born 
June 29, 1844, deceased August 12, 1845; William 
S., born June 23, 1846; Sarah E., wife of W. C. 
Sargeant, born February 3, 1848; Thomas D., 
born November 16, 1849, deceased March 17, 1852; 
Norton McGiffin, born June 23, L851, living at 
Charleroi; Alice, born May 15, 1853, wife of J.W. 
Thatcher, of Columbus, Ohio; Ruth, born April 
17, 1855, wife- of J. K. Hazelett, living at New 
Salem, Fayette Co., Penn. ; James D., born March 
10, 1S57, living in La Fayette, Ind., and Mary M., 
bom July 6, 1859, wife of John H. Jewel, of 
Charleroi. The father of this family was a Whig 
and Republican, and in religious faith a member 
and elder of the Presbyterian Church. He died 
August 25, 1877, and Mrs. Dodd was laid by his 
side July 27, 1883. 

Dr. William S. Dodd was born on the farm in 



718 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



West Bethlehem township, Washington Co., Penn., 
and attended the public schools of the neighbor- 
hood. He then began to study medicine in his 
father's office, afterward taking a thorough course 
in the Cincinnati College of Medicine and Surgery, 
from which he graduated in 1878. He began his 
professional life at Amity, having been given his 
father's practice, and remained there until Novem- 
ber, 1889, when he went to Pittsburgh, and in 1890 
came to Charleroi, this county. He was married 
June 9, 1886, to Sarah R. , daughter of J. Wesley 
Chambers, a native of Amwell township, and they 
have had one son, John Wesley Chambers, born 
May 22, 1889. Dr. Dodd has acquired an enviable 
reputation, both as a citizen and physician. He is 
a stanch supporter of the principles embodied in 
the Republican party, and in religion is a member 
and elder of the Presbyterian Church. 




W a i ne's 
"In the 



L. DODD, M. D., of Amwell township, 
traces his ancestry back to Rev. Thad- 
deus Dodd, a man of pioneer fame in that 
township, concerning whom the follow- 
ing excerpt has been taken from Dr. 
'Historical and Farewell Addresses:" 
summer of 1777 Mr. Thaddeus Dodd, of 
Morris, N. J., a licentiate of the Presbytery of 
New York, paid the Ten- Mile people a visit. They 
were extremely anxious that he should settle 
among them. But how was he to be supported? 
Silver and gold they had none; but such as they 
had they freely offered. Mr. Dodd accepted the 
call, for he was a man of kindred spirit. He went 
back to Virginia, was ordained by his Presbytery, 
and brought his family for a permanent residence 
to Ten-Mile, in the autumn of 1779. His position 
was advanced post, the forlorn hope of our 
Western Zion. Long after the members of other 
congregations could go and come in safety, those 
of Ten-Mile were kept in constant terror by the in- 
roads of the savages. Mr. Dodd was confessedly 
the most learned among the ministerial compeers 
<>f the West. He possessed an extraordinary 
mathematical genius. He was an excellent clas- 
sical scholar, and, had time permitted and inclina- 
tion prompted, he might have excelled in the compo- 
sition of poetry. The first classical school west of 
the Alleghanies was established by Rev. Dodd in 
1782, and he was also the first principal of Wash- 
ington Academy (now Washington and Jefferson 
College, Washington, Penn.). Rev. Dodd was a 
great lover of music, he had a delicate ear, and had 
thoroughly mastered the science. He delivered 
sermons and lectures on the science, and in that 
way aroused the interest of the people. Dr. Dodd 
died of pulmonary consumption on the 20th of 
May, 1793, after a ministry of nearly sixteen 
years. Rev. Cephas Dodd, the son of Thaddeus 



Dodd, succeeded his father about ten years after 
his father's death, in the Upper and Lower Ten- 
Mile congregation. He was possessed of a clear, 
strong mind, enriched by manly culture .and v#ried 
learning." Rev. Cephas Dodd also practiced med- 
icine in connection with his ministerial duties. He 
was the great-grandfather of the subject of our 
sketch on his mother's side, and of his lineal de- 
scendants seven have chosen the medical profession. 

Daniel F. Dodd, father of subject, was born 
December 25, 1825. On August 0, 1853, he was 
married to Ruth McFarland, a lineal descendant of 
Maj. Daniel McFarland, of Revolutionary fame, 
through William McFarland, Esq., James and' 
John McFarland. Daniel F. Dodd, who was a 
farmer, died August 20, 1880; his widow is still 
living, and is in her fifty-eighth year. 

Dr. W. L. Dodd was born October 17, 1866, in 
Amwell township, where he has always resided. 
He pursued his literary studies at home under the 
direction of a tutor, and in 1886 attended a course 
of lectures at the College of Physicians and Sur- 
geons, Baltimore; then studied a year with his 
preceptor, Dr. W. S. Dodd, at Amity, this county. 
In 1887 he began a course at the Western Penn- 
sylvania Medical College at Pittsburgh, graduating 
in the spring of 1888, the youngest member in a 
class of forty-five. After leaving school he prac- 
ticed with his preceptor at Amity one year, and 
then, having won a large and lucrative practice, 
bought him out. Descended from eminent patriots, 
sturdy soldiers and intellectual leaders, this intel- 
ligent young physiciau has a bright future opening 
before him. Young in years, but older in experi- 
ence, with the wisdom of a race of brilliant men 
behind him, he can not fail to become one of the 
foremost men in his profession. 




^ILLIAM S. MOORE, an enterprising and 
successful farmer of Independence town- 
ship, is a son of James Moore, whose 
father was born near Dublin, Ireland, 
and when a young man immigrated to America. 
The latter located in Washington county, Penn., 
becoming one of the early settlers, and there 
passed his whole life, enduring all the usual dan- 
gers and hardships incident to pioneer life. He 
married and reared the following children: John, 
James, Joseph, Samuel, Michie (wife of James 
Wilson), Maria (Mrs. David Waugh), Eliza (wife 
of Richard Waugh) and Jane (married to William 
Mayhall), all of whom lived to an adult age. Mr. 
Moore died at a ripe old age, and his widow after- 
ward died in Brooke county, W. Va. 

James Moore was born in Washington county, 
Penn., on his father's farm, and received a pre- 
liminary education at the primitive schools of the 
day. He intended to prepare for the ministry,. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



im 



but the death of his father changed his plans, 
making it impossible for him to finish the course 
■which had been mapped out. However, he at- 
tended the West Liberty (W. Va.) Academy, and 
being an apt and intelligent student, acquired a 
considerable amount of information during the 
short time he remained in the school. After 
abandoning his former hopes he learned the trade 
of a millwright under R. Mayhall, assisting in 
buijding the old " Waugh Mill " of Brooke county, 
W. Va. On April 12, 1827, he was united in mar- 
riage with Nancy Boyd, who was born February 
13, 1806, daughter of James Boyd, of Independ- 
ence township, and the following children were 
born to their union: John, born February 13, 
1828, died March 16, 1889, in Indian Territory, 
and was buried at Coffeyville, Kans. ; James, born 
August 6, 1829, died in infancy, and was buried 
in Lower Buffalo cemetery; David (a farmer of 
Putnam county, 111.), born February 7, 1831; 
Marshall, born January 6, 1833 (living in Inde- 
pendence township); Samuel, born December 28, 
1834 (residing in Independence, Penn.); Mary J., 
born November 7, 1836 (formerly widow of G. M. 
L. Plummer, now Mrs. Stephen Smith, of Florence, 
Penn.); Joseph (farming in Knox county, Ohio), 
born July 26, 1838; Margaret, born December 8, 
1839 (living in Independence township, Penn.); Will- 
iam S. ; Robert, born June 6, 1845 (residing in Can- 
onsburg, Penn.); and Richard (deceased in youth). 
For some time after his marriage Mr. Moore lived 
in Brooke county, W. Va. , at the home of Richard 
Waugh, where he superintended a "fulling-mill." 
In the spring of 1828 he purchased the "John 
Thorn farm" in Independence township, this 
county, upon which he removed, and divided his 
time between farming and performing the work of 
a civil engineer, being very skillful and efficient in 
the latter vocation. He was naturally of a mechan- 
ical turn of mind, and was also a good financier 
and business manager. He was fond of reading, 
and was well informed on general topics. Politically 
he was a Democrat. His death occurred Novem- 
ber 28, 1848, and in the fall of 1892 his remains, 
with those of his son Richard, were removed from 
the old cemetery to the new one at Independence, 
where a monument i^ erected to their memory in 
the center of the four lots owned by William S. 
Moore. The widow of James Moore passed the 
most of her remaining years with her son William. 
She died December 16, 1890, and was buried in 
the new cemetery. 

William S. Moore was born September 8, 1841, 
on the farm which is yet his home. His boyhood 
was passed in attending to the usual farm duties, 
and in obtaining a common-school education, and he 
partially learned the carpenter's trade, but never 
followed it continuously. On August 30, 1876, he 
was married to Martha Ann Murchland, who was 



born March 28, 1851, daughter of John Murch- 
land, of Jefferson township. To Mr. and Mrs. 
Moore have been born children as follows: Lydia 
W., Joseph L., Artie L. and Nancy V., all of whom 
are living with their parents. For several years 
previous to his marriage Mr. Moore lived with his 
mother and sister on the farm which has always 
been his home. In connection with his other 
work, he raises first class stock, being very suc- 
cessful in both vocations. He was one of the pro- 
moters and founders of the beautiful new Inde- 
pendence cemetery, which is a credit to the com- 
munity, much taste having been exercised in its 
arrangement and construction, the grounds being 
arranged with exquisite care and neatness. Polit- 
ically, Mr. Moore favors the Democratic party, but 
votes according to the dictates of his own judg- 
ment, believing that more attention should be given 
to the character and ability of the man than to his 
political views. On February 12, 1892, Mrs. 
Moore passed from earth, and was laid to rest in 
the new cemetery at Independence. She was a 
consistent member of the Presbyterian Church, 
with which denomination Mr. Moore is also united. 



DAVID M. McCARRELL, M. D., a prom- 
inent physician and surgeon of Hickory, 
1 was born November 6, 1833, in Mt. Pleas- 
ant township, Washington Co., Penn., a 
son of Thomas McCarrell, who was a son of Lodo- 
wyck. The latter was born in Ireland, and left 
his native land in early youth, coming to America 
and settling in Mt. Pleasant township, Washing- 
ton Co., Penn., where he was married to Mar- 
tha Leman, a native of this county. At Hickory^ 
in that township, Mr. McCarrell was engaged in 
mercantile work. Some years later he moved to 
Ten-Mile, where he carried on a milling business^ 
but afterward returning to Mt. Pleasant township 
he settled on the farm yet owned by the McCar- 
rell family, and here engaged in agriculture and 
distilling. The following children were born to 
Lodowyck and Martha McCarrell: John (deceased, 
who had settled in Venango county, Penn.), Isa- 
bella (deceased wife of Isaac Hodgens, of Taylors- 
town, this county), Thomas, James (a minister of 
the U. P. Church, of Beaver county, Penn.), Eliza- 
beth (Mrs. John Cockins, who died in 1890, at 
Canonsburg), Andrew (who resided on the old 
homestead in Mt. Pleasant township), and Leman 
(deceased in Taylorstown), all born in Mt. Pleas- 
ant township, and all now deceased. 

Thomas McCarrell was born in Washington 
county, and was married to Esther McNary, a na- 
tive of the same place. They settled on a farm in 
this county, and children were born to them as 
follows: John (formerly a physician and surgeon 
of Wellsville, Ohio, who died in 1891), Martha 
(died January 12, 1893, in this county), Margaret 



720 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



(wife of Joseph Cowden, of Cecil township), and 
James (a physician of Allegheny, Penn.). The 
mother of this family dying, Thomas McCarrell 
was married in June, 1832, to Elizabeth McCon- 
aughey, who bore him the following children: 
David M. (our subject), Leman (a farmer of Mt. 
Pleasant township), Thomas Jefferson (deceased in 
1854), Lodowyck (an attorney of Washington. 
Penn.), Alexander Donnan (a U. P. minister at 
Stewart's Station, Westmoreland Co., Penn.). 
This wife died in 1858, and Thomas McCarrell was 
again married, his third choice being Margaret 
Martin, a native of Canousbnrg, this county. Mr. 
McCarrell was an active member of the Democratic 
party, and served his county as associate judge 
and county commissioner, also as justice of the 
peace for several years. He died October 21, 1872, 
in Mt. Pleasant township; his widow died in 1891 
at Canonsburg, this county. 

Dr. David M. McCarrell was reared on the home 
farm iu Mt. Pleasant township, and educated in 
the schools of Hickory. After his elementary 
studies were completed he entered Jefferson Med- 
ical College, Philadelphia, attending during the 
year 185(3-57. After graduating, Dr. McCarrell 
came immediately to Cross Creek village, this 
county, and began practice. In 1861 he settled 
in Hickory, where he has since been established, 
being the oldest physician in that part of Wash- 
ington county. On December 25, 1862, he was 
united in marriage with Adeline, a daughter of 
John and Elizabeth (Campbell) Cassidy, all natives 
of Cross Creek township. Mr. Cassidy and his 
wife were members of the Presbyterian Church; 
he died iu Jefferson township, his wife having long 
before passed over the river. After his marriage 
to Adeline Cassidy, Dr. McCarrell settled per- 
manently in Hickory, this county. During his 
professional life twelve students have been in- 
ducted into the mysteries of medical science under 
his instruction. Mrs. McCarrell died October 6, 
1888, leaving her husband and the following chil- 
dren to mourn her loss: Lizzie Ora Lulu Blanche 
{deceased at the age of eight months), Mattie 
Leila, David Leander and James Patterson (twins). 
Dr. McCarrell has erected a handsome brick resi- 
dence upon his place, and improved his property 
in many ways. He is a member of the Presbyte 
rian Church at Mt. Prospect, as was his wife; po- 
litically he affiliates with the Democratic party. 



llOHN C. MORGAN, the leading dry goods 
w I merchant of Canonsburg, Penn., was born 
r_l October 28, 1846, in Allegheny county, Penn. 
His father, James Morgan, was born on the 
same farm where his son John C. first saw the light 
of day. John C. Morgan remained on the home 
farm until about twenty years of age, when he 
went to Marshalltown, Iowa, and worked for a rail 



road company. He then returned to Pennsylvania, 
and in the spring of 1881 came to Washington 
county, settling in Canonsburg, where he opened 
a dry-goods store, and has since remained in that 
business. In April, 1886, he was united in mar- 
riage with Miss Clara Wilson, and three children 
have blessed their union, namely: Edith and Edna 
(twins) and Clara. 

Mr. Morgan is not an old resident of Washing- 
ton county, but since his first identification with 
the interests of Canonsburg has been a prominent 
leader in every movement for the general advance- 
ment and upbuilding of his adopted city. The 
beautiful store, which is now the pride of every 
citizen of Canonsburg, was at the time of Mr. 
Morgan's arrival a dilapidated and broken-down 
old structure. With characteristic energy and 
perseverance he remodeled and added to the origi- 
nal building until a complete transformation was 
effected. In 1891 he completed one of the finest 
four-story blocks within the limits of Washington 
county. It is built of pressed brick, and has two 
fronts, nine store rooms, seven offices and two 
lodge rooms. When this building was in process 
of erection, this enterprising citizen saw the press 
ing need of a public hall in Canonsburg, suitable 
for lectures and other entertainments, tending to 
educate and entertain the people, and to keep 
them abreast of the times. To think, with him, 
was to act, and in an incredibly short time after- 
ward his beautiful and commodious opera house 
was erected. This provides a seating capacity of 
500, and is fully equipped with all necessary 
articles, being undoubtedly the superior of any 
similar hall in this county. Mr. Morgan keeps a 
full stock of goods which meet the wants of the 
surrounding community. His store is both beau- 
tiful and expensive, fitted to be an ornament to 
any city. In the very prime of life, surrounded by 
friends and family, John C. Morgan is indeed a 
prosperous man, possessing wonderful business 
capacity, combined with untiring energy. He be- 
lieves iu patronizing home industries, and to this 
end endeavors to supply his customers with a full 
line of modern goods at reasonable prices. It is 
almost needless to add that these endeavors have 
met with hearty approval and earnest co-operation 
from the citizens of Cauonsburg, who appreciate 
the debt they owe toenterprising and public spirited 
men like these. John C. Morgan is a member of 
the First Presbyterian Church, in the western 
part of Canonsburg, and in politics is a Republican. 



THOMAS B. HIXON is a prominent farmer 
of North Strabane township. His paternal 
grandfather was a native of Germany, and 
came to the United States prior to the year 
1790. He fought under Gen. Harrison in 
the war of 1812, and then made a permanent 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



721 



home in Washington county, Penn. , where he re- 
mained until his death, which occurred in 1847, 
his wife passing away in the same year. He was 
a man of quiet tastes and habits, never entering 
public or political life. He reared a family of six 
children, of whom James was the youngest son. 

James Hixon, father of our subject, was born in 
1790, on the farm adjoining the present home of 
his son Thomas B. He grew to manhood on the 
home place, and was then married to Jane Batey, 
who was born in 1809, and she bore him three chil- 
dren, namely: Thomas B., Mary and Lucy (wife 
of H. H. Raney, of Washington county). Mr. 
Hixon was a representative citizen of the county, 
and in religion he and his wife were members of 
the United Presbyterian Church. He died in L881, 
on the farm where he was born, and his widow was 
laid beside him in 1889. 

Thomas B. Hixon was born October 11, IS 10, on 
the old home farm in North Strabane township, 
where he is now living. He passed his boyhood in 
attending to the school and farm duties. In the 
year 1861 he was married to Priscilla J. Horner, 
who was born in 1843, in North Strabane town- 
ship, daughter of Robert and Matilda Horner, 
early pioneers of this county. Mr.- and Mrs. Hixon 
have had the following children: James H, Mary 
A. (wife of George Beebout, of Ohio), Nettie P. 
(married to Thomas Berry, a farmer of Missouri), 
Louis, Scott, Anna, Thomas, George, Howard, 
Charles and Ella. Mr. Hixon has owned and oper- 
ated a public gristmill, and also two portable saw- 
mills, for many years. He has a fine farm of 114 
acres, which he manages with marked success. He 
is a Democrat, and has served the township in the 
capacity of assessor four years, and as school 
director for three terms. He and his wife are 
devoted members of the U. P. Church. 




OBERT S. COOLEY was born September 
IJ 16, 1843, in Hanover township, Beaver 
county, Penn. He was a son of Joseph, 
it - whose father, Robert, was born near Pitts- 
burgh, Penn. Robert Cooley was married 
to Jane Smith, who was born near Saw Mill run, in 
Allegheny county. He was a blacksmith by trade, 
and worked near Pittsburgh for some time, then 
moved to Hanover township, Beaver county, locat- 
ing about two and a half miles east of Frankfort. 
He worked at his trade there, and afterward turned 
his attention to farming, following that pursuit the 
remainder of his active life. His death occurred 
about 1868, having been preceded by his wife in 
1863, and both are now buried in Hopewell ceme- 
tery, Allegheny county. They were the parents of 
the following children: Joseph, Jane, Mary Ann, 
Robert, Francis, Nancy, Elizabeth, Mary, Marga- 
ret, Ellen and William (who died in infancy). The 



children of this family now living are: Francis, 
residing near Abilene, Kans. ; Elizabeth, a maiden 
lady of Beaver county; and Margaret (Mrs. Mc- 
Callister Dunlap), of Beaver count}-. 

Joseph Cooley, son of Robert and Jane Cooley, 
was born in 1816, in Allegheny county, where he 
attended the rate schools. He then served a four 
years' apprenticeship as a carpenter, and worked at 
his trade in various places. In 1838 he was mar- 
ried to Matilda Anderson, who was born in 1818, 
and their children were born as follows: Mary Ann 
(Mrs. Samuel Kiefer, of Beaver county, Penn.), 
Elizabeth J. (wife of John Cool, of Allegheny 
county), Robert S. (whose sketch follows), Letitia 
E. (Mrs. Thomas), Joseph (a farmer of Beaver 
county), Matilda (wife of John Donnell, of Alle- 
gheny county) and Nancy (who died in infancy). 
After his marriage Joseph Cooley located on the 
farm of his father, in Beaver county, and resided 
there the remainder of his life. In politics he was 
a Republican, taking an active interest in the suc- 
cess of his party, and in religion was formerly a 
member of> the Presbyterian Church at Hopewell, 
in Allegheny county, afterward uniting with the 
Frankfort Presbyterian Church. He died in 1881. 

Robert S. Cooley was born September 16, 1843, 
in Beaver county, passing his youth on the farm, 
and being educated in the common schools. On 
October '28, 1874, he was married to Jennie L. 
Gilleland, who was born in 1849, daughter of Will- 
iam Gilleland, of Beaver county. Robert S. and 
Jennie L. (Gilleland) Cooley have had six children, 
viz.: Mary E. , William R. , Harry A., Estella, a 
son deceased in infancy, and Robert C. Mr. and 
Mrs. Cooley began wedded life on the farm in 
Hanover township, Washington county, where they 
yet reside. He has been engaged in general farm- 
ing and stock raising, and is numbered among the 
well-to-do and successful farmers of the commu- 
nity. He is ever ready to assist in any beneficial 
enterprise, and was among the first to aid in the 
establishment of a creamery, which was opened near 
his home some time since. In politics he is a Re- 
publican, and in religion he and his wife are mem- 
bers of the Frankfort Presbyterian Church, in 
which he is a member of the Session. 




RS. NARCISSA V. YANT is the widow 
of James H. Yant, and daughter of New- 
ton and Nancy (Cooper) Vanvoorhis. Isaac 
Vanvoorhis, a well-known farmer of Som- 
erset township, this county, is an uncle of 
Mrs. Yant. 

James H. Yant was a son of Daniel, who was 
born in Chester county, Penn., his parents having 
emigrated from Germany to Pittsburgh. In 1825 
Daniel Yant came to Washington county, Penn., 
and bought a good farm, to which he brought his 



722 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



wife, Sarah Applegate, a native of Allegheny 
■county, Penn. They were the parents of two chil- 
dren: Martha, widow of John Stoud, living in 
Allen township, and James H. The father died on 
the farm in September, 1867. 

James H. Yant was born April 30, 1S27, in Car- 
roll township, Washington Co., Penn., and received 
a subscription-school education. His youth was 
passed in assisting his parents, and he early evinced 
a strong inclination for mechanical pursuits. In 
November, 1852, he selected a life companion, in 
the person of Miss Narcissa Vanvoorhis, who bore 
him the following children: Clarence Linden, James 
Taylor, Lena May (all of whom are deceased); 
Daniel Newton, born December 13, 1857, is super 
inteudent of the iron mills at Allegheny City; Sam- 
uel Linton, living on a farm in Allegheny county, 
born August 28, 1863; Theodore Clinton, a carpen- 
ter, of Washington, Penn., born May 22, 1867; 
Nora Ethel, living at home, born August 24, 1874, 
and Harvey A. , also at home, born January 20, 
1879. Mr. Yant was a hard-working man and an 
excellent manager, having owned 13. r > acres of good 
land. When his health failed, the- sons took 
charge of the place, which they have since con- 
ducted very successfully. Mr. Yant voted with the 
Republican party, and in religion associated with 
the Presbyterian Church. In business circles he 
possessed the thorough confidence of all, and " his 
word was ever considered as good as his bond. " 
He died July 10, 1888, and was buried in the Van- 
voorhis cemetery at Pigeon Creek. Since the 
death of her' husband, Mrs. Yant has rented a por- 
tion of the farm, and resides in the handsome brick 
residence, which is located about two and a half 
miles from Monongahela City. She is a very pop- 
ular, agreeable lad}-, and a valued member of a 
large social circle. 



EORGE H. MILLER, M. D., one of the 

leading physicians of McDonald, in this 
county, was born near Claysville,' Penn., 
April 23, 1846. He is a son of Christopher 
and Sarah J. Miller, who were married in 
1840. To them were born nine children — six sons 
and three daughters. The sons are Leatnon, Cal- 
vin, George H., Charles W., William and John; 
the girls are Mary Jane, Margaret (wife of John 
Holmes) and Frances E. (widow of Bruce Ramage). 
Of the boys, three are dead — Leamou, William and 
John. 

Dr. Miller was born in Donegal township, this 
county. He received his elementary education at 
the common schools, at the Southwestern State 
Normal School, California, and the normal school 
at Millsboro, and after teaching four or five years 
in the different schools of the county commenced 
(he study of medicine, in 1867, with Dr. John 



Kelly, now of Washington, Penn. In the fall of 
1870 he attended medical lectures at Jefferson 
Medical College, Philadelphia. He then con- 
ducted a drug store at Burgettstown until the 
fall of 1872; again attended medical lectures at 
the Miami Medical College, Cincinnati (Ohio), 
from which he graduated in March, 1873, and 
commenced the practice of his profession at Clays- 
ville. After remaining there for eighteen months 
he moved to Midway, Penn., and after staving 
there some four years moved to Imperial, Alle- 
gheny Co., Penn., where he remained for eight 
years. He then moved to McDonald, his present 
location, where he is engaged in the practice of 
his profession, also conducting a drug store. 

On May 30, 1872, the Doctor was united in 
marriage with Frances E. Woodburn, daughter of 
John and Margaret Woodburn, of Burgettstown, 
both of whom are still living — he at the age of 
eighty-two and his wife at the age of eighty-one. 
The following named children were born to this 
union: Lawrence E. (deceased), Anna M. , Will- 
iam M. , George F. and John Stanley. Dr. Mil- 
ler is an attendant of the United Presbyterian 
Church, and in political opinion is a prominent 
member of the Republican party; was one of the 
first members of McDonald council, and also one 
of the first members of its school board. He now 
enjoys a very lucrative practice, and is a popular 
physician. 




he died 
married to 
of eastern 



ILSON S. CAMPBELL. The great-great- 

grandfather of the subject of this sketch 
came from Scotland in the beginning of 
the sixteenth century, and settled in east- 
ern Pennsylvania or New Jersey, where 
The great-grandfather of Wilson S. was 

Hammond about 1775 (a native 

Pennsylvania), and shortly afterward 
they came further west, settling in the northern 
part of Washington county, Penn., near what is 
now Cross Creek village, at a time when the forests 
were abounding in wolves and other wild beasts. 
They had nine children: Graeie, John, James, 
William, David, Charles, George H., Betsey and 
Polly, all of whom lived to be married, and scat- 
tered. Graeie. John, James, William and David 
moved to Belmont county, Ohio; the other four 
married and remained in Pennsylvania. Graeie 
married Benjamin Bay; John married Betsey Lyle; 
James married Peggy Smith; William married 

Smith; David married Ann Ray; Charles 

married Easter Mason; George H. married Eliza- 
beth Ray; Betsey married William Ray; Polly mar- 
ried William Fulton. George H. and Charles re- 
mained on the old homestead, aud died there at 
advanced ages. 

George H. Campbell, grandfather of subject, 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



723 



had eleven children: Jane, married to John Wil- 
son, of Noble county, Ohio; John, married to Eliza 
Moore, of Hickory, Penu. ; Mary, married to John 
Graham, of Knox county, Ohio; William, married 
to Elizabeth Nichols, of Greene county, Penn. ; 
Elizabeth, who died at the age of fifty-eight, un- 
married; Samuel S. (named for Dr. Scott, deceased, 
Mrs. President Harrison's father; was married 
three times: first time to a daughter of Dr. 
Wright, of Ashtabula, Ohio; second time, to Ann 
E. Wallace, of Washington, Penn. ; third time, to 
Mary Law, of Harrison county, Ohio); George W. 
(the father of our subject); Esther I. (unmarried), 
living in Cadiz, Ohio. The others died when 
young. Mason Campbell, son of Charles, now 
lives on the old home place. 

George W. Campbell was born in 1826, in Cross 
Creek township, and was reared to agricultural 
pursuits on the old home farm, attending in his 
boyhood the subscription schools of the vicinity. 
In 1855 he married Miss Charlotte, daughter of 
James and Margaret Wilson, of West Pike Run 
township. After marriage they located on the old 
farm in Cross Creek township, and there remaiued 
till October, 1867, when they moved to Midway, 
Robinson township, and two and one-half years 
later built the hotel in Midway, which they occu- 
pied and carried on till September, 3, 1885, at 
which date the father died very suddenly, aged fif- 
ty-nine years. The family remained at Midway, 
continuing the hotel business, until March, 1890. 
Mr. and Mrs. George W. Campbell were the par- 
ents of five children, as follows: Johnetta Jessie, 
who died at the age of ten months; Wilson S. (our 
subject); Graham S., living at McDonald, this coun- 
ty; Esther Elida, married to W. H. Baldwin, of 
Cadiz, Ohio, and Mary Velma, deceased at the age 
of nine months. 

Wilson S. Campbell was born April 20, 1858, in 
Cross Creek township, Washington Co., Penn.. mi 
the homestead where he was reared to farm life, 
his education being received in the public schools 
of the neighborhood. He removed with his par- 
ents to Midway, and at the age of fifteen com-, 
menced clerking in a general store in that town, in 
which he continued nine years. Then for six 
years he conducted a furniture establishment in 
the same town. On January 5, 1891, he was ap- 
pointed clerk of the commissioners of Washington 
county, and removed into the city of Washington, 
where he is now residing. Under President Ar- 
thur's administration he had been appointed post- 
master at Midway, and served in that office until 
the appointment of a Democratic successor under 
President Cleveland. On September 20, 1882, Mr. 
Campbell was united in marriage with Miss Kate 
E. , daughter of J. J. and Margaret Cleland, of 
Buffalo township, this county, and two children 
were born to them, James St. Clair and Flora 



Elida. Mr. and Mrs. Campbell are members of 
the Second Presbyterian Church at Washington, 
and while at Midway he was a member of the Ses- 
sion, of Raccoon Presbyterian Church. In politics 
he has always been a straight Republican. 



E 



DWARD P. CHERRY. This well-known 
and successful gentleman can boast a 
prouder lineage than lord or lady of royal 
birth, for his ancestors were among the 
first rulers of the New World, and martyrs for the 
future generation, freely giving their lives that 
"the children" might have happier homes and 
the God giving liberties which were denied our 
fathers. Shall the memory of these ancestors, our 
royal peerage, sink into oblivion while we enjoy 
the priceless liberties for which our fathers toiled, 
suffered and died? Small wonder that we are 
eager to obtain and record every incident of those 
noble lives, hoping to thus rear a monument for our 
loved and honored ones, which will live in the 
hearts of our children when we, too, "are gathered 
to our fathers." Among the earliest of early 
pioneers the name of Cherry takes a prominent 
position. 

Thomas and Mary Cherry were born near Bristol, 
England, and emigrated to America in 1770, first 
settling in Frederick county, Md. In 1774 they 
moved to Mt. Pleasant township, Washington Co., 
Penn., where he erected a log cabin. He was a 
spy in the Revolutionary war, and one morning 
was found lying dead by the spring near the cabin, 
scalped by the Indians; his son John was also 
killed by the Indians the following year. In 1774 
Fort Cherry was built on the home farm, contain- 
ing three log buildings, one twenty-five feet square, 
and the smaller ones arranged in a triangular 
manner. This was used some years as the resi- 
dence of the Cherry, McCarty and Rankin families. 
Edward Cherry was born in July, 1776, on the 
home farm in Mt. Pleasant township, this county, 
where his boyhood was passed amid the dangers of 
pioneer life, trebled by the horrors of the 
Revolution. On March 4, 1802, he was united in 
marriage with Rebecca Perrin, who was born in 
1781, in New Jersey, and bore him children, of 
whom the following is recorded: William P., born 
in December, 1803, was reared on the farm, 
receiving a meager subscription-school education, 
but by close application became an expert 
mathematician (he was several times offered the 
chair as professor of mathematics, but would not 
accept it, preferring to remain on the old farm; 
he was actively interested in politics; he died 
April 10, 1890); Eleanor, born March 10, 1805, on 
January 20, 1825, was married to Thomas Stewart, 
a farmer, and resided in Allegheny county, Penn. 
(she passed away February 5, 1872); Nancy, born 



724 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



in November, 1806, on March 12, 1835, gave her 
hand in marriage to Matthew Rankin (they settled 
in Mt. Pleasant township, where she died Decem- 
ber 5, 1855; her husband married again and died 
at Burgettstowu June 13, 1880); Aaron, born 
August 29, 1808, on May 19, 1834, was united in 
marriage with Margaret Ben ward, first settling in 
Mt. Pleasant township, thence moving to Woos- 
ter, Ohio, and afterward returning to Mt. 
Pleasant township where th'ey lived twenty years 
on the farm, then went to Uhrichsville, Ohio, 
where he died September 17, 1875; Maria L., 
born in November, 1810, was never married, aud 
died August 12, 1886; Rebecca, born in Decem- 
ber, 1812, passed her life on the home farm and 
died October S, 1881; Rachel, born iu December, 
1814, was married on October 8, 1840, to James 
Stewart (they settled in Allegheny county, Penn., 
where she died); Sarah, born in 1817, lived with 
her brother, Edward P., until her death, which 
occurred iu December, 1891; Edward P., born 
May 19, 1819, whose sketch is given below; Eliza 
Jane, born in 1821, was married October 8, 1850, 
to William Cherry, Guernsey county, Ohio (they 
first settled on the home farm, and in 1S75 moved 
to near Waco, McLennan Co., Tex., where they 
now reside). 

The father of this large family was a soldier in 
the war of 1812, and in politics was a stanch ad- 
herent of the Whig party. He was a man of 
sterling moral worth and true piety, but a member 
of no church. Mrs. Cherry was a member of the 
Presbyterian Church of Candor, this county. He 
died July 1, 1S54, iu his seventy-eighth year, on 
the farm where his whole life had been passed. 

Edward P. Cherry was boru on the old farm in 
Mt. Pleasant township, on Cherry's run, in Cherry 
valley, which is yet his home. He was educated 
in the subscription schools of the neighborhood, 
and on September 26, 1854, was married to Mary 
Jane Lawton, a native of Cross Creek township, 
this county. She is a granddaughter of Joseph 
and Mary (Alway) Lawton, natives of Rhode Is- 
land, who came to this county in 1824, and settled 
iu Cross Creek township, where he died in 1839, 
his wife passing away in 1841. She is a daughter 
of Pardon Lawton, who was born, in 1798, in 
Rhode Island, and in 1824 he and his parents 
came with a six-ox team over the mountains to 
Washington county, Peun., settling in Cross Creek 
township. In 1826 he was married to Tabitha 
Vincent, daughter of Alexander and Jane Vincent, 
natives of Maryland, who moved to Washington 
county, Penn., settling in Hopewell township, and 
the young people settled permanently in Cross 
Creek township. He was an active politician of 
the Whig party. Mrs. Lawton was a member of 
the Buffalo Presbyterian Church, and both she 
and her husband were conscientious Christians. 



He died January 27, 1876, aud was followed by 
his wife October 25, 1884. Their children were 
born as follows: Joseph (living in West Middle- 
town, Penn., married to Mary Louisa Quest); 
Rosanna (married to Samuel Davidson, Hopewell 
township): Mary Jane, born April 18, 183(1 (mar- 
ried to Edward P. Cherry); Sarah (living in Hope- 
well township, wife of George Leggett); Peter (liv- 
ing iu Cressna Park, Penn., married to Mary 
McCoy); Alexander (living in West Middle town); 
Charles (residing in Washington, Penn. , married 
to Sarah Guiuey); John (enlisted in 1861, at W est 
Middletown, in the Forty-second P. V. I., serving 
till the end of the war, when he went to Monmouth; 
he was married to Matilda Brownlee, and died in 
September, 1S78); James (living in West Middle- 
town, this county); Thomas Vincent (a resident of 
West Middletown) and Margaret Elizabeth (also 
living in West Middletown). 

Mr. Cherry owns a good farm containing 103 
acres, part of which he rents and uses as a pasture. 
It has been in the possession of the Cherry family 
since 1774. and many improvements have been 
made, a good house being erected in 1884. Mr. 
Cherry is fond of hunting and is a skillful marks- 
man. Politically he has long been an active Re- 
publican, having voted for General Harrison, and 
served his party iu various township offices. He 
and his wife are members of the U. P. Church at 
Hickory, this county. [Since the above was writ- 
ten, Mr. Edward P. Cherry died at his home in 
Mt. Pleasant township, December 23, 1892, in his 
seventy-fourth year. 



THE FARLEY FAMILY. The oldest mem- 
ber of the family of this name, of whom 
there is any record, was Joseph Farley, a 
farmer by occupation, a native of County 
Armagh. Ireland, who there married Sarah 
Carr, a resident of the same county, aud reared the 
following children: Joseph, William, Robert, 
James, Samuel, John and Rebecca (Mrs. John 
Kennedy). Mr. Farley was a member of the Pres- 
byterian Church, of which Rev. James Harvey was 
the pastor. 

Joseph Farley was born in 1779, in County Ar- 
magh. Ireland, and received his education iu the 
schools of that country. In early manhood he was 
married to Nancy Lindsey, a resident of the same 
neighborhood, and the children born to them in 
Ireland were: John, Mary (Mrs. Samuel Palmer), 
James, William, Rebecca and Samuel. In 1824 
Mr. Farley and his family embarked at Warrens- 
point, Ireland, for America, and after a voyage of 
five weeks and three days landed at Quebec, Can 
ada, in which city they remained eight weeks, and 
thence traveling slowly by boats and carriages, ar- 
rived at Pittsburgh with but $15 with which to 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



727 



begin a new life. They pushed bravely on, how- 
ever, and finally reached Washington county, 
Penn., where Mr. Farley rented a farm in Char- 
tiers township. Here he remained four years, and 
then moved to South Strabane township, where he 
lived five years, at the end of which *time he re- 
turned to Chartiers township, where he resided 
nineteen years, afterward purchasing a farm in 
South Strabane township, to which he soou added 
the place now occupied by the family, and hither 
he moved. After settling in Washington county, 
two daughters were born to them: Sarah and Nancy 
J. Mr. Farley was another example of what suc- 
cess might be achieved by patient industry, for 
from small beginnings he became a prosperous 
farmer and stock raiser. In politics he was a lead- 
ing Democrat, and in religious faith he was a 
member of and liberal contributor toward the 
United Presbyterian Church at Cross Roads, in 
Chartiers township. In June, 1857, he was laid to 
rest by the side of his wife, who had preceded him 
to the grave in November, 1856. 

James Farley was born in Ireland, March 2, 
1814, and when a small boy came with his father 
to Washington county, Penn., where he imbibed 
the fundamental principles of education in the 
common schools, becoming a good reader, well-in- 
formed on current topics. On August 28, 1851, 
,he was united in marriage with Jane Ross, who 
was born January 12, 1814, daughter of Thomas 
Ross, a native of eastern Pennsylvania; they after- 
ward adopted Rebecca Ann McLaughlin, who re- 
mained with her foster parents till 1877, when she 
was united in marriage with Rev. Lycurgus 
Mechlen, of New Athens, Ohio, and their children 
were James F. , George, Robert D. and Jane Re- 
becca. Mr. Farley was a successful farmer, and 
engaged extensively in the live stock business. He 
was a leading member of the Democratic party. 
On April 14, 1891, he died, and was buried in the 
cemetery at Washington. His widow still lives on 
the farm. 

William Farley (a brother of James) was born 
in May, 1816, in Ireland, and coming with the 
family to America in 1824, received the greater 
part of his education in the common schools of this 
country. He is an eager reader, and an enterpris- 
ing member of the community. In political life he 
is a Democrat, and though never caring to assume 
a prominence in the arena of politics, still he is 
ever ready to advance the cause of his party. 



JfOHN FEE, a successful farmer of Chartiers 
. I township, was born March 10, 1817, in North 
\\\ Strabane township, Washington Co., Penn. 
His ancestors were natives of the Emerald 
Isle, the grandparents, William and Elizabeth Fee, 
having emigrated from Ireland to Maryland, where 



they were married. They afterward came to Can- 
onsburg, Washington county, where William Fee 
died about 1815, being followed by his wife a few 
years later. 

William Fee (father of subject) was born in 
Maryland, coming to Washington county, Penn., 
when about sixteen years of age, and was afterward 
married to Elizabeth Hamilton, a native of North 
Strabane township, this county, and daughter of 
David Hamilton, whose father came to Chartiers 
township when but five years of age. He served 
six months in the Revolutionary war. The father 
of Miss Hamilton was born March 10, L750, near 
Carlisle, Penn., where he was united in marriage 
with Margaret Gardner, and afterward came to 
Washington county, settling in South Strabane 
township, where he followed farming. He died in 
IS 10, his widow in 1848; both were members of 
the Presbyterian Church. 

After his marriage to Elizabeth Hamilton, Will- 
iam Fee lived for some time in North Strabane 
township, this county, moving to a farm in Char- 
tiers township about 1S22, where the following 
children were reared: Harriet (widow of William 
Harsha, of Canonsburg, this county), Elizabeth 
(deceased in 1851), John (subject), David (married 
to Maria McLaughlin, and died in 1852), Samuel 
(deceased October 8, 1849) and William G. (of 
whom mention is made further on). Mr. Fee was 
an active member of the Whig party, serving as 
justice of the peace for many years, and in religion 
a member of the Cross Roads United Presbyterian 
Church. He died November 25, 1861, being fol- 
lowed by his wife on October 28, 1877. 

John Fee was educated in the schools of Char- 
tiers township, and then learned the carpenter's 
trade, which he followed about thirteen years, spend- 
ing six months in Cincinnati in 1843. On Sep 
tember 29, 1847, he was married to Hannah Quinn, 
a native of Washington borough, but reared in 
Chartiers township. She is a daughter of James 
Quinn, who was born in Ireland, and settled in 
Washington county, Penn.,' at an early day. Mrs. 
Fee has one living brother, James Quinn, of Tyner, 
Ohio. The following children have been born to 
John and Hannah Fee: Lida A., John, David 
(married to Eva Pattison, and living at Canons- 
burg, this county), Rebecca (wife of Matthew A. 
Cain, of Chartiers township), Samuel (married to 
Anna McCoy, and living at McCounell's Mill), 
Ellis, Harry (married to Jennie McCarty, and living 
at McCounell's Mill), and William H. (married to 
Julia M. Humphrey, and living in Canonsburg). 
After his marriage John Fee settled on the farm of 
113 acres, where he is now living. This farm is of 
excellent soil, has upon it a considerable amount of 
timber and is underlaid with a vein of No. 1 coal. 

Mr. Fee has served the public several terms as 
school director, and both he and Mrs. Fee are held 



728 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



in high esteem by all who know them. Both are 
faithful and consistent members of Cross Roads 
United Presbyterian Church. Politically Mr. Fee 
is a Republican. 

Mr. Fee's only living brother is Prof. William 
O. Fee, of Cherokee county, Iowa, married to 
Elizabeth Welch. He is a noted educator, and 
has twice held the office of county superintendent 
of schools for Washington county, Penn. He re- 
moved from Canousburg to Iowa in 1878, where 
ne owns a quarter section of land. He is an elder 
in the United Presbyterian Church, of Quimby, 
Iowa. 



T' M. BERRYHILL. Among the progress- 
ive business men of Mt. Pleasant town- 
ship, this gentleman is recognized as one of 
the leading citizens and most successful 
dairy farmers. He is a representative of 
one of the prominent pioneer families of Washing- 
ton county. 

William Berry hill was of Scotch descent, and 
served as captain under Washington throughout 
the Revolution. After that struggle he settled 
near Greencastle, Penn., and followed the black- 
smith's trade some years, afterward purchasing the 
farm where his life was passed. In early manhood 
he was united in marriage with Ruth Steele, who 
was born in Ireland, coming with her parents to 
America when but one year of age. The children 
born to William and Ruth (Steele) Berryhill were 
as follows: Alexander S. , Ruth (Mrs. Noble), Will- 
iam. Samuel, Elias and Isabella (wife of Rev. 
Blackburn). 'Mr. Berryhill was a Federalist in 
politics, taking an active interest in the affairs of 
the county. He and his family were members of 
the Presbyterian Church. 

Alexander Berryhill was born in Lancaster county, 
Penn., and was educated in the schools of the 
neighborhood. In early life he came to Union- 
town, Penn., where he wa,s married to Mary, daugh- 
ter of Moses Linn. After his marriage he moved 
to West Virginia, and conducted a tan yard for 
some time, and then opened a general store at 
West Liberty. He finally sold out, and became 
one of the pioneer boatmen of that vicinity, mak- 
ing trips from West Liberty, to Nashville, Tenn. 
He exchanged the northern produce for cotton, 
sugar, and other articles raised in the Southern 
States. While returning from one trip, he met the 
first steamboat that was ever on the Ohio river, and 
challenged the crew for a race to Short Creek. 
They accepted, and he won the race. In 1830 he 
came to Cross Creek township, this county, where 
he made a permanent home. In politics he was 
formally a Whig, afterward uniting with the Dem- 
ocratic party. He and his wife were members of 
the Presbyterian Church. They were the parents 



of the following children: William, Moses L., Alex- 
ander S., Maria I. (wife of William McKenly), 
James, John, Samuel and Marbha. 

William G. Berryhill (son of Alexander) was 
born in 1IS02, in West Liberty, W. Va., and came 
with his parents to Cross Creek township in an 
early day. On December 8, 1S31, he was united 
in marriage with Maria Marshall, who was born in 
18(>3, in Venango county, Penn., and coming with 
her parents to North Strabane township, there 
grew to womanhood. Mr. Berryhill was a teacher 
of Cross Creek township, and after his marriage 
resided in different parts of the county until 1841, 
when he and his wife moved to Knox county, 111., 
thence to Richland county, Ohio, where they re- 
mained one winter; then located in Knox county, 
Ohio, where he followed his profession in connec- 
tion with farming; in 1848 he returned to Cross 
Creek village, Washington Co., Penn. In politics 
he was an ardent Democrat, and in religion he and 
his wife were members of the Union Church in 
Mount Vernon, Ohio. He died in June, ]N4s, and 
within a fortnight his wife was laid beside him. 
They were the parents of six children, viz.: Alex 
ander (deceased in 1850, a cabinet maker of Mount 
Vernon, Ohio), T. M. (whose name opens this 
sketch), Abner (deceased in 1858, Armstrong 
county, Penn.), Moses Linn (deceased when two 
years of age), Arabella (deceased in Allegheny 
county, Penn.) and James (accidentally killed near 
Burgettstown, Penn.). 

T. M. Berryhill was born September 19, 1834. 
in Cross Creek township, this county, where his 
boyhood was passed, excepting an interval of seven 
years which he spent in Ohio. His early educa- 
tion was obtained in Knox county, Ohio, and in 
1848 returned to Cross Creek village, Penn. On 
March 21, 1801, he married Miss Jane Griffith, a 
native of Mt. Pleasant township, the marriage 
taking place at Hickory, this county. Miss Grif- 
fith was born on the farm which she and her bus 
band have occupied. She is a daughter of Isaac, 
and granddaughter of John and Jane (Martin) Grif- 
fith, natives of Maryland, who settled on the home 
farm in Mt. Pleasant township many years ago, 
he dying April 1, 1825, his widow April 2, 1834 
Isaac Griffith was born, in 1800, on the old home 
farm, and in 1836 was married to Elizabeth Esler, 
who came with her parents to Cecil township when 
a child, locating on Miller's run. Isaac Griffith 
was a farmer, in politics a Whig, afterward be- 
coming a Republican; he and his wife were mem- 
bers of the Mt. Prospect Presbyterian Church. 
She died in 1857, and in 1867 he was laid by her 
side. The children born to this union were as 
follows: Jane (Mrs. T. M. Berryhill), Robert (liv- 
ing in Missouri), John (living in Mt. Pleasant 
township), James (assassinated in August, 1890, 
in Arizona, near Flagstaff), Elizabeth (residing 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



729 



in Hickory, this county), Isaac M. (accidentally shot 
himself in 1884 at Coffeyville, Kans.), Letitia (wife 
of M. J. Liggett, living in Independence township, 
this county), and Harriet Ann (wife of J. S. Lig- 
gett, a resident of Independence township). 

T. M. and Jane (Griffith) Berryhill first settled 
in Hickory, this county, where he followed the 
blacksmith's trade until 1863. He then moved to 
Jefferson county, Ohio, where he bought a farm 
an' I remained until 1S67, when he sold out, and 
returning to Washington county, settled on the 
farm of 16'2 acres which he now owns. He has 
followed dairy farming exclusively for six years, 
milking from twenty to twenty four cows daily, and 
raising enough stock to supply the dairy. He has 
a good house and barn, and is a prosperous citizen, 
in politics voting with the Republican party. Mr. 
and Mrs. Berryhill are members of the U. P. 
Church at Hickory, of which he is a ruling elder. 
Their union has been blessed with the following 
children: Nettie A. (wife of Robert A. Russell. 
Mount Pleasant township), William G. (a medical 
student, married to Delia McCarrell), Blanche B. 
(wife of Harry A. Smith, Mt. Pleasant township), 
Charley M. aud Lulu A. (the latter two yet living 
at home). 



*J 



ing the highest respect and esteem of his neigh- 
bors. In politics he was a stanch Republican; in 
religion he belonged to the Presbyterian Church 
at Claysville, toward which he was a liberal con- 
tributor. 

• To Mr. and Mrs. John Sawhill were born chil 
dren as follows: Anna M. , born February 8, 1S45, 
wife of James McConahey, of Donegal township; 
Mary A., born August 1, 1849, died July 10, 1870; 
Thomas A., born February 3, 1851, now living in 
Concordia, Cloud Co., Kans.; Elizabeth Jane, born 
July 5, 1853, wife of John Post, of East Finley 
township; William F., born October 16, 1855, now 
in Concordia, Kans. ; John E., born October 7, 
1858, residing in Iowa; Eldeu C, born May 30, 
1861, now a Presbyterian minister in Enon, Law 
rence Co., Penn., and three that died in infancy. 



ll JJ RS JANE SAWHILL, widow of John 
\i\ Sawhill, was born in 1824, in Ohio county, 
■( I W. Va. . a daughter of Thomas Pollock. 
* In 1813 she was united in marriage with 
John Sawhill. who was born December 6, 
1812, in East Finley township, Washington Co., 
Penn., where he received a common school educa- 
tion, which he afterward considerably improved by 
reading. Alexander Sawhill, his father, was a na- 
tive of Ireland, whence he came to this country 
with his parents who settled in eastern Pennsyl- 
vania where they died. He was there married to 
Mary Neely, a daughter of native-born Irish par- 
ents, and after the death of his parents the young 
couple came, about the year 1803, to Washington 
county, locating in Buffalo township. Here they 
remained several years, and then moved to take up 
their final residence in East Finley township, near 
the Buffalo township line. Twelve children were 
born to them, of whom John was sixth in order of 
birth. 

After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. John Saw- 
hill settled down to farm life, in East Finley town- 
ship, near Claysville. Some years later he pur- 
chased the Milligan property, situated about one 
mile from Claysville, in East Finley township, and 
near the Donegal township line, where his widow 
still lives. Here he died August 30, 1887. He 
was a successful farmer, aud by industry and good 
management accumulated considerable property. 
He was a prominent man in the community, enjoy- 



D' 



who 



AVID E. McNARY. No family has been 
more prominently identified with, or can 
boast a prouder record among, the heroic 
pioneers of Washington county, than those 
bear the McNary name. The earliest an- 
cestors of the race were natives of Scotland, in 
which country one James McNary was born in 
1711. His boyhood was passed among his native 
hills, but in early manhood he went to Ireland, re- 
maining there a short time. Youth is ever rest- 
less, and, longing for new and wider fields of 
action, the young man emigrated to America in 
L760, where he made a permanent settlement in 
Chanceford township, York Co., Penn. 

Thomas McNary. was born on his father's farm 
in York county, and in 1782 located on a place of 
250 acres on North Strabane township, Washing- 
ton Co., Penn., for which he paid £375 in current 
specie. He was married, and reared a large family 
of children. From 1799 to 1820 he was an elder 
in what is now the Chartiers United Presbyterian 
Church. In personal appearance he was a large, 
fine-looking man. He died in 1820. 

David McNary was born in 1771, in York county, 
Penn., aud came with his parents to Washington 
county when yet a boy. He was reared to man- 
hood on the farm in this county, and was married 
to Miss Jane Edgar, who was born about 1791 in 
Ireland, daughter of Samuel Edgar, a very prom- 
inent man in his day. The following children 
came to their union: Phcebe, born May 28, 1818; 
Thomas J., born January 24, 1820; Samuel, born 
January 22, 1822; Jeanette, born November 29, 
1823; Mary, born February 6, 1826; David E., 
born March 3, 1828; Matthew, born February 21, 
1830; James, born August 17, 1833; and Joseph, 
born January 28, 1836. Of this family are yet 
living: Samuel (who is a very large man, weighing 
330 pounds); Mary (married to John Templeton, a 
farmer of North Strabane township); Joseph (a 



730 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



retired farmer, living in Washington, Penn.), and 
David E. 

David E. McNary was born on the old McNary 
homestead in North Strabane township. He worked 
on the farm in boyhood, mowing hay with an old- 
fashioned scythe, and gathering it with a wooden 
fork cut from a bush. On August 11, 1853, he 
was united in marriage with Elizabeth Ann, 
daughter of Samuel Martin, a well-known citizen 
of Ohartiers township, and the following children 
have blessed their union: Samuel M., born May 
29, 1854; James B.,born July 29, 1856; Adeline, 
born February 15, 1858; Anetta, born May 23, 
I860; Thomas A., bora December 17, 1861; Mary 
B., born November 20, 1865; and Elizabeth E. and 
David C. (twins), born August 20, 1869. Follow- 
ing their marriage Mr. and Mrs. McNary resided 
in North Strabane township until 1S71, when they 
located on their present place in Cross Creek town- 
ship, erecting their handsome residence in 1875. 

Mr. McNary is another practical witness to the 
possibilities which lie before every industrious and 
intelligent young man. Beginning life a poor boy 
with limited education, by honest and hard work, 
strict economy and sturdy integrity he has risen 
step by step, and to-day he occupies a prominent 
and enviable position among the citizens of not 
only Cross Creek township, but of the entire 
county. He now owns 196 acres of fine land, and 
is much interested in stock raising, making a 
specialty of fine-wooled sheep, of which he owns 
between three and four hundred. Politically, Mr. 
McNary has ever been a stanch Republican, serv- 
ing his party as county commissioner during the 
years 1888, '89 and '90. In religious faith he is 
a member and elder of the United Presbyterian 
Church of West Middletown. 



PETER MARTIN, a prominent and enter- 
' prising farmer of Chartiers township, is a 
native of the same, having been born Feb- 
ruary 6, 1823, on his father's farm in this 
county. He is a grandson of Peter Martin, 
who was born in Scotland, and at an early day 
came here and settled in Washington county, Penn., 
where he made a permanent home. His son Sam- 
uel was born on the farm in South Strabane town 
ship, and there grew to manhood. He was mar- 
ried to Jane White, a resident of North Strabane 
township, and the young couple settled, about 1816, 
in Chartiers township, this county, where they 
made a permanent home. The following children 
were born to their union: Mary (Mrs. Robert 
Morgan, who died in 1SSS), Eleanor (deceased 
wife of John Fergus), Peter, Sarah, Jane (married 
to John Morgan, of Chartiers township), and Ann 
Elizabeth (wife of David E. McNary, of Cross 
Creek township). Mr. Martin was a farmer, and 



was always prominently identified with the inter- 
ests of the community. His wife died in 1836, 
and he passed to his last resting place in 1864. 

Peter Martin passed his boyhood on the home 
farm, where, together with the neighboring 
urchins, he attended the country school. On No- 
vember 10, 1859, he was married to Mary A., 
daughter of David and Margaret (Morrison) Wat- 
son. Miss Watson was of Scotch descent, her 
great grandfather, Gavin Morrison, having come 
from Scotland in 1773, with his family of three 
sons. Gavin Morrison died in Washington coun- 
ty in 1782, and the elder sou, James, grandfather 
of Mrs. Martin, settled on the land, it having been 
surveyed for him in 1784. The Morrison family 
trace their lineage to this ancestor, who died in 
1813. David Watson married Margaret Morrison. 
He died many years ago, leaving a family of 
children, among whom was Mary (Mrs. Martin). 
His wife died in 1875, aged eighty years and six- 
teen days. 

After his marriage Peter Martin settled on his 
present home in Chartiers township, a well-culti- 
vated, productive farm of 142 acres, with two good 
gas wells on the place. Mr. and Mrs. Martin have 
had four children: Anna M., Eva Jane (Mrs. 
John R. Jamison, of Chartiers township), Lizzie 
B. , and George C. Mr. Martin has a good grade 
of stock, and is a successful business man. He is 
not an active politician, but casts his ballot, with 
the Republican party. Both Mr. aud Mrs. Martin 
are members of the Cross Roads United Presby- 
terian Church. 



JAMES BUCHANAN MONTGOMERY, a 
prosperous and progressive young farmer,, 
and extensive landowner, of East Finley 
township, is a native of the same, born July 
27, 1856, a sou of Silas and Margaret (Elliott) 
Montgomery. 

Hugh Montgomery, his grandfather, was born 
in Ireland in 1780, and when yet a young man left 
his native land to seek his fortune in the New 
World. He landed in Philadelphia, whence he 
pushed on to Washington county, and October 21, 
ISO:',, he took up 200 acres of land embracing 
what is now the home tract of the Alexander Mont- 
gomery estate, situate about seven miles southeast 
of Claysville; the farm is situated on the head- 
waters of Big Wheeling creek. Here he built a 
log cabin in the midst, of the wilderness, and began 
to clear the land. In 1808 he was united in mar- 
riage with Ruth Enlow, a resident of East Finley 
township, and who was living near the lonely 
young pioneer, to which union were born the fol- 
lowing children: Susanna (Mrs Thornberry), born 
February 20, 1810; Anne (Mrs. Sprowls), born 
November 17, 1811; James, born October 23, IS 13 








?5«W" 



( &i£a^J]'(() " (rnZatrrtt^A/df 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



733 



(moved to Ohio); John, born November 5, 1815 
(settled in East Finley, where he died); Jesse, born 
September 27, 1817 (settled in East Finley); Will- 
iam, born July 23, 1819 (was a resident of Wash- 
ington borough for many years; he kept a store, 
and was justice of the peace twelve years); Re- 
becca (Mrs. Post), born May 24, 1821; Phcebe 
(Mrs. Martin), born November 14, 1828 (lived in 
Ohio); Alexander, born August 6, 1825; Mary 
•(Mrs. Sprowls), born May 13, 1828, and Silas, 
born June 18, 1830. Only one of this family is now 
living, Mary, residing in East Finley township, 
the widow of Simeon Sprowls. Hugh Montgom- 
ery was a farmer all his life, and his success in 
business was but a just reward of his industry and 
economy. In addition to the land which he first 
took up after settling in Pennsylvania, he after- 
ward purchased over 600 acres, and at his death 
he bequeathed 150 acres to each of his six sons; he 
was also an extensive stock dealer. In politics he 
was a lifelong Democrat. He died May 17, 1847, 
aged sixty-seven years, followed by his wife July 
22, same year, aged sixty-one years. 

Silas Montgomery, the youngest child of Hugh 
Montgomery, first saw the light in East Finley 
township, this county, and his boyhood and early 
youth were passed on his father's farm, his educa- 
tion being limited to a few weeks' attendance at 
the old log school -house at Stony Point. On Sep- 
tember 7, 1855, he was married to Margaret, 
daughter of William Elliott, of Morris township. 
By this union two children were born, as follows: 
James Buchanan and Elliott Wilson, the latter 
born October 31, 1857, and died September 15, 
L877. Silas Montgomery died August 27, 1883, 
since when his widow has made her home with her 
son J. B. Silas Montgomery was a successful 
fanner, and at the time of his death owned a con- 
siderable amount of property. In politics he was 
a Democrat, and in religious connection he held to 
the Cumberland Presbyterian doctrine; he was 
one of the founders of the Cumberland Presbyte- 
rian Church at Fairview. 

J. B. Montgomery received a good, practical 
common-school education, and learned farming 
with his father, an occupation he has since suc- 
cessfully followed. On August 22, 1878, he was 
united in marriage with Kate, daughter of Samuel 
Hunt, of West Finley township, and to this union 
were born children as follows: Ross, Silas, Ida, 
Robert, Janettie, Samuel, Lucinda, Rosella 
and Catherine (latter being now deceased). Since 
his father's death, Mr. Montgomery has continued 
to reside on the old home farm, consisting of 333 
acres of well-improved land lying between Bar- 
tholdi and East Finley postoffice, on it being one 
of the finest residences to be seen in the township. 
Mr. Montgomery, in addition t'o his general farm 
interests, is extensively engaged in threshing in 



the season, and has a large sawmill on his property 
which he operates; he also gives particular atten- 
tion to the breeding of Short-horn cattle. In 
politics he is a Democrat. Religiously Mr. Mont- 
gomery belongs to the United Brethren. He has 
always been very charitable, giving to all charities 
and helping the poor. 



THOMAS FERGUS. The Fergus family are 
of Scotch descent, John Fergus, the grand- 
father of Thomas, having been born in Scot- 
land, where he was married. He came with 
his family to America, and settled in Hunt- 
ingdon county, Penn.. where he died. John Fergus 
had three sons: Thomas, John and Samuel. 

Samuel Fergus was born in Huntingdon county, 
Penn., and passed his youth on the home farm, 
receiving his education in the common schools. In 
early manhood he was married to Miss Mary Pax- 
ton, and the following children were born to their 
union: Hugh, Mary (Mrs. Andrew Hart), Mar- 
garet (Mrs. Thomas Maxwell), John, Martha.Thomas, 
Sarah (Mrs. Hugh Fergus), Jane and Nancy. He 
was a member of the Seceder Church at Canons- 
burg, and was an elder for many years. In politics 
he was a Whig. He died April 14, 1853, at the 
age of ninety years, and was followed by his wife 
February 18, 1801, in her ninety-third year. 

Thomas Fergus was born November 2, 1802, on 
the home place in South Strabane township, and 
received his education at the subscription school, 
which was at first held in a log cabin on his 
father's farm. The floor was of ashes, and the 
seats were slabs of wood supported by wooden 
pegs. They had no backs for the weary urchins 
to rest upon, and the chimney consisted of a hole 
in the roof. The fireplace occupied one end of 
the building, and the windows were made by re- 
moving a portion of a log, and covering the space 
with greased paper. The only text-books used 
were the Testament, the United States Speller and 
the Western Calculator. But even with these 
meager opportunities Thomas acquired a fair edu- 
cation. On May 3, 1831, he was united in mar- 
riage with Elizabeth, daughter of John D. Roberts, 
and to their union have been born the following 
children: John D. , Mary, Susan (deceased), Han- 
nah J., Maria, Isabella, Samuel P., Addison R. 
and Sarah M. After his marriage Mr. Fergus 
settled on the farm in South Strabane township 
now owned by Mr. Roberts, and resided there 
seven years, when he removed to his present home. 
He was formerly a Whig, and since the formation 
of the party has been a Republican, being actively 
interested in the political issues of the day. In 
religion he is a prominent member of the United 
Presbyterian Church at Pigeon Creek, to which he 
gives a liberal support. 



734 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



l\ Mi H. BORLAND, a leading stock raiser and 
\/A prominent agriculturist of Cecil town- 

■i I ship, is a son of Cornelius Borland. His 
-^ grandfather, Matthew Borland, was born 
in County Down, Ireland, and about 1790, 
while in early manhood, immigrated to America, 
first locating in Allegheny county, Penn. He 
married Margaret Connor, a native of upper St. 
Clair township, where the young people began 
their married life. In 1829 they moved to South 
Fayette township, Allegheny county, where their 
lives were ended. He was an active participant in 
the Whisky Insurrection. Politically he was a 
Democrat and afterward a Whig, and in religion 
was a member of the Associate Reformed Presby- 
terian Church. He died in 1842, his wife in is:>7. 

Cornelius Borland was born June 10, 1806, on the 
home place in Upper St. Clair township, Allegheny 
county. In June, 1836, he married Rebecca Kelso, 
who was born in 1816, in South Fayette township, 
Allgeheny Co., Penn. The young people first 
located on the old homestead, afterward moved to 
North Fayette township, and in April, 1846, bought 
204 acres of land in Cecil township, upon which 
they settled. This tract was originally patented by 
Edward Cheese, who disposed of his right to Mrs. 
Kerr, who sold it to Arthur Long, who afterward 
sold it to Dr. Riddile, and Mr. Borland finally 
purchased it from the heirs of the last-named 
owner. To Mr. and Mrs. Cornelius Borland the 
following children were born: M. H, Martha M. 
(wife of David Reed, of Smith township), Margaret 
C. (Mrs. Vincent McBride, of Canton township), 
Mar}' E. (wife of James A. Little, of Cecil town- 
ship), Agnes R. (wife of Andrew R. Paxton, of 
Savannah, Ohio), Andrew C. (who married Amanda 
R. Stevenson, is living on the old homestead), and 
John K. (also living on the home farm). The 
father was a colonel in the State militia for seven 
years, and was actively interested in the political 
questions of Allegheny county. He and his wife 
were formerly members of the Associate Reformed 
Church at Robinson's Run, afterward uniting with 
the U. P. Church at Venice, this county. He died 
in 1872, aged sixty-seven years. His widow is yet 
residing on the old home farm. 

M. H. Borland was born August 27, 1837, in 
Upper St. Clair township, Allegheny Co., Penn. 
When nine years of age he came with his parents 
to Cecil township, Washington county, aud there 
received a district-school education. On July 6, 
187"), Mr. Borland was united in marriage with 
Mattie Miller, a native of Canonsburg, this county, 
a daughter of Reed and Martha (Fergus) Miller, 
natives of Washington county, and residents of 
Canonsburg. The father was born in 1S17 and 
died in 1873; the mother died in 1851. 

After marriage, our subject and his wife settled 
on the farm of 157 acres where they are now liv- 



ing, aud which is situated on Miller's run. Mr. 
Borland has made many improvements, and has 
erected a pleasant new residence and other build- 
ings. The proprietors of the Ridgeway Bishop 
Coal Company have bought twenty acres of Mr. 
Borland's farm, which already has railroad facili- 
ties, making it easy of access to Pittsburgh. In 
August. 1862, Mr. Borland enlisted in Compauy 
G, One Hundred aud Twenty-third P. V. I., for a 
term of nine months, and was assigned to the army 
of the Potomac, taking part in the battles of Fred- 
ericksburg and Chancellorsville. He received an 
honorable discharge in May, 1S63, at Harrisburg, 
Penn. , and returned to his farm in Cecil town- 
ship. In politics he votes with the Republican 
party; he has been justice of the peace several 
years; has served in various other positions, and 
was secretary of the school board for ten years. 
Mr. and Mrs. Borland are members of the United 
Presbyterian Church at Venice, this county. They 
have six children: John M. , Agnes R., Matthew 
H, Anna M., Ida M. and Rose E. 



JjOHN G. PAXTON, an enterprising and suc- 
cessful citizen of Chartiers township, is ex- 
| tensively engaged in the dairy business, 
together with farming and stock raising. He 
represents an early pioneer family, being a son of 
Thomas Paxton, whose father, John Paxton, was 
born in York county, Penn. John Paxton came to 
Washington county in 1782, and was married to 
Martha Paxton, a native of York county, who 
crossed the mountains on horseback, coming to 
this county when but a child. She afterward re- 
turned to York county, and carried salt from there 
to Washington county on horseback. After their 
marriage the young couple settled in Chartiers 
township, where both died, leaving several chil- 
dren to perpetuate their memory, viz. : Eliza, 
Thomas, John and Samuel, all dead but Samuel. 
Thomas Paxton was born in 1804, on the home 
place in Chartiers township, and in 1833 was 
united in marriage with Jane Mills, who was born 
in Jefferson county, Ohio, where the wedding took 
place. Her parents were of Scotch-Irish descent, 
and natives of Ohio, the pioneers of the family 
having settled in that State in an early day, and 
there their descendants are yet living. They made a 
permanent home in Chartiers township, this county, 
and reared the followingchildren: John G., George 
Mills (deceased at the age of twenty-six years), 
Samuel (married, aud a farmer of Boone county, 
Iowa), Mattie (deceased in 1884, second wife of H. 
O. McKnight), Isaac N. (married and living in 
Chartiers township), Nancy (Mrs. Thomas McEwen, 
of Chartiers township), Man* (deceased in her 
twenty-third year), Thomas (married and living on 
the old homestead) and Minnie (wife of William 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



735 



Zeb, living near Monongabela City). Of these chil- 
dren, George Mills was educated at Jefferson Col- 
tege, Canonsburg, and afterward took a theological 
course at the United Presbyterian College, Alle- 
gheny City. He then filled part of an appointment 
at Rochester, N. Y., under the jurisdiction of the 
Presbytery, but soon after his return home was 
taken ill and died. Mr. Paxton followed farming in 
this county, and in politics was a Whig, afterward 
uniting with the Republican party. He was a 
member and trustee of the Cross Roads United 
Presbyterian Church. He died in 1887, on the 
old homestead. 

John G. Paxton was born August 18, 1836, on 
the home farm in Chartiers township, where he was 
reared and educated. On January 1, 1863, he was 
united in marriage with Ann Knox Miller, a native 
of Mt. Pleasant township, and daughter of John 
and Margaret Miller. They were natives of this 
county, and of Scotch- Irish ancestry, the grand- 
parents of Mrs. Paxton having emigrated from 
Ireland, and patented a claim which is yet in the 
possession of the family. John Miller was a 
farmer, and in religious faith was first a member 
of the Seceder Church at Hickory, this county, 
then united with the United Presbyterian Church 
at Cross Roads. He died many years ago, and was 
followed by his wife in 1872, both being very old 
at the time of their death. 

In April, 1863, Mr. and Mrs Paxton settled on 
the farm where they are now living, which he has 
improved with a good residence and barns. The 
farm contains 128 acres of well cultivated land. 
In 1876 he began dealing in stock, having been the 
first to introduce Holstein cattle into Washington 
county, Penn. He also dealt in Merino sheep, 
breeding some fine Black-Top. He milks an av- 
erage of twenty cows, shipping forty gallons of 
milk per day, and has been in the dairy business 
since 1873. He has raised registered Yorkshire 
swine, having taken premiums at Detroit (Mich.) 
and other places. Mrs. Paxton died February 22, 
1872, leaving four children, viz.: George Grant 
(living in Chartiers township, and married to Mary 
McNary, daughter of J. C. McNary, of Chartiers 
township), James, Lillie and John Graham (editor 
of the Kent Courier, at Kent, Ohio, employing five 
or six men). In 1873 Mr. Paxton was married to 
Ellen, daughter of William and Martha (Mitchell) 
Cameron, natives of South Strabane township, this 
county. The father was a farmer and died in 1874, 
having been preceded by the mother to the grave. 
Four children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Pax- 
ton, viz.: William, Jennie A.. Emma and Eva 
(deceased in infancy); the last two were twins. In 
politics Mr. Paxton votes the Republican ticket, 
and has frequently held township offices. He and 
his wife are members of the United Presbyterian 
Church at Houstonville, and he has been president 



of the board of trustees until quite recently. He 
ranks among the progressive men and farmers of 
his county. 




( LEXANDER BORLAND is a native of 
A Washington county, Penn., and son of An- 
il drew Borland, who was born in Washington 
^ county. In 1824 he was united in marriage 
with Elizabeth, daughter of Alexander Mc- 
Clure, and eleven children were born to their mar- 
riage, namely : Alexander, Mary, Rebecca, Margaret 
A., Elizabeth, Sarah, Catherine, Andrew, Martha, 
Rachel and James. Of this family, Rebecca, 
Catherine, Martha and Rachel are now deceased. 
The father always followed farming on the old 
j place, with the exception of about six years, and 
died in 1860. The mother passed away April 10, 
1889. 

Alexander Borland, eldest son of Andrew and 
Elizabeth Borland, was born December 10, 1825, 
on the farm in Peters township, Washington Co., 
Penn., where he grew to manhood. On December 
4, 1849, he was married to Margaret Jane, daugh- 
ter of James and Agnes Crawford, who were the 
parents of nine children, namely: William (de- 
ceased), Sarah, Andrew (living on the old homestead 
in Peters township), Tamar, Mary Ann, Agnes, 
Elizabeth, Margaret Jane (Mrs. Borland) and 
Priscilla; of whom Andrew and Margaret are the 
only ones yet living. 

To the union of Alexander and Margaret Jane 
(Crawford) Borland the following children have 
been born: James Crawford, Elizabeth McClure 
(Mrs. Caldwell), Andrew Alexander, Mary Agnes, 
and Elmer Ellsworth (deceased). In 1876 Alex- 
ander Borland purchased his present home of 110 
acres in North Strabane township, all under culti- 
vation. In politics he votes with the Democratic 
party, and has held various positions of trust in 
North Strabane township. He is an elder in the 
U. P. Church. 



DANIEL SWICKARD, a prosperous shoe 
I merchant of Monongabela, born November 
' 26, 1816, in Somerset township, is a son of 
John and grandson of Martin Swickard who 
was born and reared in eastern Pennsylvania. 

Martin Swickard came to this county among the 
earliest settlers, and locating in a log cabin in 
Somerset township, assisted in clearing up and im- 
proving the land. He was twice married. To the 
first union were born the following children: Mat- 
thias, Daniel, Samuel, John, Lucy and Sarah. Mr. 
Swickard always followed farming, and in 1805 
went to Jefferson county, Ohio, where he remained 
until his death. In politics he was a Democrat, 
and in religion a member of the Lutheran Church. 



730 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



John Swickard was born in 1783, in Somerset 
township, Washington Co., Penn., and passed his 
youth on the home place. When a young man he 
married Mary, daughter of John Smith. They con- 
tinued to reside on the home place, where children 
were born as follows: Catherine, John, Samuel, 
Daniel, Mary. Barbara, Susan and Elizabeth. The 
father was a lifelong agriculturist, and a noted 
hunter and sportsman; iu politics he voted with 
the Democratic party. The clothing for his family 
was made from wool carded by hand and woven by 
his wife, who died in 1800 and was buried in the 
Lutheran cemetery, where her husband was buried 
January 9, 1877. The were both members of the 
Lutheran Church. 

Daniel Swickard was educated in the subscrip- 
tion schools of Nottingham township, his text books 
being limited to the Testament and United States 
Speller. In 1840 he was married to Harriet, 
daughter of Abram Leyda, a native of Nottingham 
township, who has borne him the following chil- 
dren : John, married to Malissa Beatty, living in 
Colorado; Mary E., wife of Daniel Berry; Hester 
A., married to Harrison Leyda; Daniel, deceased; 
James L., married to Maria Woodward, of Monou- 
gahela, living at Meadville, Penn.; Alex. Y., mar- 
ried to May C. Coulter, of Venango, Penn. ; and 
David M. , married to Carrie E. Van Kirk, of Am- 
well, now living at Monongahela. Mr. and Mrs. 
Swickard resided on the home place for twenty 
years after their marriage, or until he purchased the 
Leyda Mill in Nottingham township. Conducting 
that enterprise for thirteen years, he continued to 
own (he home place. In 1865 he opened a grocery 
store iu Monongahela City, but live years after- 
ward sold out, purchasing a furniture and undertak- 
ing establishment which he kept for thirteen years. 
At the expiration of that time he opened the shoe 
store where he is now carrying on a profitable busi- 
ness. He is a representative citizen, a stanch snp- 
orter of the Democratic party, and has served in nu- 
merous capacities; in 1855 he was elected county 
commissioner, which office he held three years. In 
religion he is a member of the Presbyterian 
Church. Mrs. Swickard died in 1*72, and Mr. 
Swickard again married, in 1874. M. L. McCurdy, 
of Allegheny county, Penn. , daughter of Daniel 
McCurdy. 



j IrENRY COOK, miner, is a well-known resi 

«— -| dent of Carroll township, and was born 

February 29, 1830. and reared in " Old 

England." His father, George Cook, was 

V a laborer in the old country, and was there 

in a rriod to Annie Humphreys, descended from an 

old and prominent English family. After his 

marriage George Cook went to Australia, his 

family remaining in England. He died in the 



latter place when about twenty-seven years of age, 
leaving a widow and two sons, James and Henry, 
the elder of whom was accidentally killed with a 
hay-knife. The mother is yet living in her njative 
land, and some years ago was married to Richard 
Cottle, to whom she has borne several children. 

Henry Cook remained in Eugland until five 
years of age, when, after the death of his father, 
the family left his birthplace and came to Wales. 
The mother there supported herself and children 
for one year by binding shoes, and Henry entered 
the coal mines, where he remained until nineteen 
years of age. He then returned to Worcester- 
shire, England, and was married October 20, 1857, 
to Mary Ann, daughter of Thomas Hampton, and 
some years later moved to Yorkshire, finally emi- 
grating to America in 1803. He first located at 
Monongahela, Penn., and then sent for his wife, 
who has borne him the following children: Henry 
W., George, Samuel (residing at Monongahela), 
Mary Ann (living in Illinois), Lucy (living at 
home), Anna, Jane, Elizabeth, Maggie, and Amelia 
(deceased). Mr. Cook has carefully saved his 
earnings, which he has invested in a tract of land 
at Riverview, near Monongahela, having also 
erected a neat little home near that city. One of 
his half-brothers is now living in America. In 
politics he is a stanch member of the Republican 
party, and holds an honorable place in the esteem 
of his neighbors, who recognize his sterling worth 
as a man and citizen. 



THOMAS WRIGHT, who in his lifetime was 
one of the best-known and most highly re- 
spected prosperous agriculturists of Buffalo 
township, was a native of the same, born 
February 27, 1810. 
His paternal grandfather, William Wright, a na- 
tive of Ireland, followed the trade of weaver in 
County Monaghan, in that country. He was there 
twice married, and had the following named chil- 
dren: William, Thomas, Robert, John and Samuel. 
In 1785 he came to America, and after a short 
sojourn in Chester county, Penn., settled in Buffalo 
township, this county, where he continued to follow 
his trade. Here he and his wife died. He was a 
member of the Associate Church, and in politics 
was a Whig. 

Samuel Wright, father of subject, was born 
in Ireland iu 1782, and when a young lad came 
with the rest of the family to America. In Buffalo 
township, this county, he commenced farming on a 
place which was then entirely wild, but which he 
and his family, by dint of hard labor, iu course of 
time reduced to a condition of fertility. In about 
the year 1804 he was married to Rachel, daughter 
of Thomas Hill, of Donegal township, but a na- 
tive of Ireland, and their children were Mary 




*■ 











• tafa ■/. ^ /<y//// 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



741 



(Mrs. Thomas Carson), William, Tbomas, Robert, 
Samuel and John, all now deceased except Robert. 
After the death of the mother of these children, 
which occurred February 8, 1817, Mr. Wright 
married Mary Howe, who bore him three children: 
James, Ann (Mrs. Samuel Graham) and Rachel, 
all deceased. The father died January 24, 1849, 
in his sixty-eighth year, the mother December 5, 
1841. 

Thomas Wright, whose name opens this bio- 
graphical memoir, was educated at the subscrip- 
tion schools of the neighborhood of his birthplace, 
and early in life commenced farming. On De- 
cember 13, 1844, he married Miss Sarah, daughter 
of John Carson, a native of eastern Pennsylvania, 
where his father James was also born. The latter 
was there married to Mary Hill, a native of Ire- 
laud, who bore him children as follows: John, 
Isaac, James, Adam, Mattie (wife of Hugh Mehol- 
lin), Betsy (wife of David Carson), Ann (wife of 
Archibald Stewart), and Jane (wife of William 
Brownlee). Mr. Carson was a farmer, and came 
to Buffalo township, this county, in an early day, 
when Indians and wild animals were yet numerous. 
The family were all members of the Seceder 
Church. John Carson, son of the above, and 
father of Mrs. Sarah Wright, in early manhood 
married Sarah Hill, who bore him the following 
named children: May, Rebecca, Rachel, Martha, 
Adam, Jane (wife of James Howe) and Sarah (wife 
of Thomas Wright). The father died in 1840, the 
mother in 1855. They were members of the Se- 
ceder Church at South Buffalo, of which he was 
an elder and liberal supporter, and in politics he 
was a lifelong Whig. 

After marriage Mr. and Mrs. Wright continued 
to reside on the home farm, where were born to 
them three children: Rachel (who died at the age 
of twenty-four years), and two that died in infancy. 
Mr. Wright was called from earth May 31, 1881, 
and his widow is now calmly awaiting the final 
summons. He was a member and liberal sup- 
porter (as is his widow) of South Buffalo United 
Presbyterian Church; politically he was first a 
Whig, and after, on the formation of the party, a 
stanch Republican to the day of his death. Mr. 
Wright was a thoroughly representative, self-made 
man, and has left to posterity the heritage of a 
good name. 



QEORGE DORSEY ranks among the success- 
ful agriculturists and prominent citizens of 
East Pike Run township, and is a member 
of an old and highly respected family. His 
grandfather, Joseph Dorsey, was born near 
Ellicott's Mills, Md., and in 1782 moved to Wash- 
ington county, Penn., where he purchased 1,500 
acres of land, two miles from West Brownsville, 



Penn. He erected a log cabin upon this tract, 
and resided there until 1787, then built a large 
stone house, which is yet standing on the old farm, 
in a good state of preservation. He was the father 
of the following children: Mrs. Dr. Wilson, of 
Steubenville, Ohio; Nancy, Mrs. John De Bois. of 
Ohio; Clarissa, Mrs. W T est, and Betsey, Mrs. 
Daniel Workman, both of whom died in Ohio; 
Matilda, Mrs. William Blair, who died in Ken- 
tucky; Edward G., who married Matilda Bia- 
shears; John D. , who died in Cincinnati, and 
James. 

James Dorsey, father of subject, was born in 1 790, 
on the home farm in Washington county, Penn. 
In early manhood he married Elizabeth Elder, a 
native of Maryland, who was born February 4, 
1800. She came to Pennsylvania when a child 
with her widowed mother — Mrs. Mary Elder, who 
died at the age of eighty-three in Washington 
county, Penn. Mr. and Mrs. Dorsey passed their 
lives on the old homestead (of which he owned 
500 acres), where two sons were born to their 
marriage, viz.: James (who died in 1883, in Alle- 
gheny county) and George. Mr. Dorsey was 
actively identified with the Whig party. He died 
in 1852, and his wife passed away January 27, 
1883, having been connected with the M. E. 
Church for over sixty years. 

George Dorsey was born November 11, 1833, in 
East Bethlehem township, Washington Co., Penn., 
and has given his attention wholly to the vocation 
of agriculture. On June 1, 1854, he selected a 
life companion in the person of Martha Phillips, a 
native of Washington county, Penn., who was 
born August 8, 1836. Her father, Solomon Phil- 
lips, was born December 23, 1793, in this county, 
and on May 23, 1835, married Maria Garrett, who 
was born September 19, 1812, and they were the 
parents of five children, viz. : Martha (Mrs. Dor- 
sey), Jonathan, Rebecca (Mrs. Joseph P. Craw- 
ford, Madison county, Iowa), William (deceased) 
and Ruth (deceased). Mr. Phillips followed 
teaching for many years, and then took up farm- 
ing. He voted with the Whig party. He died in 
1848, followed by his wife in 1883. He was a 
Quaker in religious faith, his wife a member of the 
M. E. Church. George and Martha (Phillips) 
Dorsey reared the following children: Elizabeth 
(Mrs. W. S. Grimes), Cassius A. (who married Hen- 
rietta, daughter of John and Marjory Watkins, of 
East Bethlehem township), Charles I. (who mar- 
ried Anna Watkins), William, Anna, John, Ells- 
worth, and two who died in infancy. Three of 
these children are now living: Elizabeth, Cassius 
A. and Charles I. Mr. Dorsey is a prominent 
worker in the Republican party, and he has 
served in various local offices; and in religious 
faith he is a member of the Taylor M. E. Church, 
having been trustee, steward and Sabbath-school 



742 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



superintendent for several years. He owns 315 
acres of good land on the National pike, where he 
has erected a handsome two-story brick residence, 
and a large frame barn. 



given to his private affairs. He occupies the farm 
together with his sisters Julia A. and Sarah, who 
have always lived at home. Julia A. is a member 
of the llegular Baptist Church. 



DEMAS L. HILL. This gentleman enjoys 
I the distinction of standing among the fore- 
i most of the prosperous farmers of West 
Bethlehem township. 

His grandfather, Joseph Hill, was born in Mary- 
land in 1770. He was educated in the rate schools 
of the day, and became an exceptionally well-read 
man. At the age of eighteen he married Mary 
Jamison, and to them were born: John, David, 
Mrs. Nancy Jamison, Joseph, James J., Mrs. 
Nancy Haviland, Margaret, Thomas and Eli. Mr. 
Hill began life upon the farm adjoining that of D. 
L. Hill on the north. He was originally a Whig, 
later a Republican, and was always an active poli- 
tician. He and his family were members of the 
regular Baptist Church. Mrs. Hill died in 1835, 
her husband following her to the grave in 1852. 

•lames J. Hill was born November 10, 1804, on 
the old home farm, and his younger days were spent 
at school, where he proved himself a good scholar 
and an eager reader. In 1826 he married Cathe- 
rine Lyda, daughter of Benjamin Lyda, of Somer- 
set township, and they had born to them the 
following children: Julia A., Mrs. Catherine Mc- 
Ilvane, George L., Benjamin L., Sarah, DernasL., 
Mi fry (deceased) and David (deceased). James J. 
Hill lived upon the home farm one year, and then 
moved to West Pike Run township, remaining 
there upon a farm of 100 acres, six years, thence 
moved to Pigeon creek, and lived there three years. 
He afterward came to Somerset township, where 
lie resided twenty-one years, both farms being in 
this township. On March 26, 1860, he came to 
the place where his son and daughter now live, and 
there spent the remainder of his life, dying Octo- 
ber 9, 1881. Mr. Hill was an active Republican, 
one of the " wheel horses " of the party, and served 
as inspector and auditor of his township. Mrs. 
Hill, who was a member of the Lutheran Church, 
died in May, 1884. 

Demas L. Hill was born January 8, 1844, in 
Somerset township, Washington Co.,Penn., and 
received his education in the common schools. He 
assisted his father some time after attaining his 
majority; has always followed farming, and has 
been very successful. He is giving especial atten- 
tion to sheep raising, and has some very fine breeds 
on his farm, which consists of eighty-seven acres. 
Mr. Hill was married November 12, 1876, to 
Melissa, daughter of Robert Latta, and they have 
five children: Orpha, Ulysses Grant, Alexander 
Leslie, Huber and Edgar. He is a Republican, 
though not an active politician, his time being all 



El LI TOMBAUGH, an energetic farmer of 
Somerset township, is a son of Matthias 
Tombaugh, who was born December 26, 

— 1792, in Ohio, and in early life was united 
in marriage with Rachel Sphon. who was born 
April 2, 181)7, in this county, and they reared the 
following children: Solomon (living in Washing- 
ton, Penn.), John (a farmer of West Bethlehem 
township, this county), George (an agriculturist 
of Gage county, Neb.), Eli (whose name opens 
this sketch), Isaac (living on the home farm) and 
Jacob (farming in Livingston county, 111.) (twins), 
Adam (a grain dealer in Mulberry Grove, 111.). 
Levina (who was married to Jacob Swagler, and 
died February 25, 1860). Mary (wife of A. J. Hil- 
debrand, died August 10, 1877), and Matthias 
(who was drowned in the Illinois river in attempt- 
ing to rescue a friend from the same fate). The 
father of this family died May 21, 1864. He was 
a member of the German Baptist Church, and in 
politics was a Republican. The mother died at the 
old homestead, May 17, 1892. at the advanced age 
of eighty five years, a member of the German 
Baptist Church. 

Eli Tombaugh was born May 26, 1838, and was 
educated in the country schools near the home 
farm in Somerset township, this county. He en- 
listed in the Civil war in 1864. and after serving 
three months under Capt. H. H. Templeton. was 
honorably discharged. He then returned to rural 
occupations, and on February 21, 1865, was united 
in marriage with Rebecca Wise, who was born in 
1836, a daughter of Joseph and Permelia (Bar- 
nard) Wise, who were the parents of the following 
children: Solomon, Morgan, Mary, Elizabeth, Re- 
becca (Mrs. Eli Tombaugh), Maria, Barbara, Jo- 
seph and Emily (deceased). Both parents are 
dead. The father was a Democrat in politics. 

Mr. and Mrs. Eli Tombaugh had five children, 
namely: Joseph Allen, born January 7, 1 Srsi', ; 
Percy Matthias, born August 15, 1867; Walter 
Scott, born December 24. 1869; Eli Edwin, born 
April 14, 1873; and Cora Josephine, born January 
23, 1876. The mother was a member of the Bap- 
tist Church. She died March 6, 1880, and on 
April 21, 1887, Mr. Tombaugh was married to 
Sarah Smith, who was born January 4, 1850, a 
(laughter of Israel and Hannah Smith. Mr. Tom- 
baugh owns 204 acres of excellent farm land, 
which is kept in a good state of cultivation. He 
takes an active interest in public matters, and 
votes the Republican ticket. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



743 



JjOSEPH SMITH is a son of Ralph Smith, 
whose father, also named Ralph, emigrated 
) from England many years ago, and locat- 
ed permanently in Washington county, 
Penn. His son, Ralph, was born in East 
Pike Run township, Washington Co., Penn., and 
was a slave until twenty eight years of age. When a 
young man he was married to Mrs. Elizabeth H. 
(Shiveley) Hazelbaker, a widow, who bore him 
four children, viz.: Henry (deceased), Joseph, 
James (living in West Pike Run township) and 
Louisa (deceased). Mrs. Smith was also the 
mother of four children by her first marriage, 
namely: Daniel. Abraham, Jacob and Polly, all 
of whom are now deceased. The mother of these 
children died in 1850 and was interred in theQuaker 
cemetery in East Bethlehem township; in 1858 she 
was followed by her husband, who was buried in 
the Baptist cemetery at Washington. 

Joseph Smith was born August 20, 1806, in 
East Pike Run township, Washington Co., Penn., 
and had no opportunity to secure a literary 
training, being obliged to give his whole time to 
farm work. In early life he was united in mar- 
riage with Mary Brown, who was born in 1815, in 
Washington county, Penn. Their children were 
born as follows: Matilda, wife of Jacob Simons, 
a Baptist minister of Monongahela City; Joseph, 
deceased; Henry, a resident of West Bethlehem 
township; Simeon, a farmer of West Bethlehem 
township; William, deceased; John; James; Mary, 
wife of Howard Wallace; Margaret; and George, 
deceased. James now residing in East Beth- 
lehem township, was married to Jennie Maxwell, 
who died May 2, 1892, leaving three children: 
Mabel, Hazel and Eli. She was a member of the 
African M. E. Church. The father of these chil- 
dren is well known in West Pike Run township as 
an honest, industrious citizen. He began life as a 
farm laborer, pushing coal boats during the fall 
and winter, and by strict economy at length saved 
enough to purchase 194 acres of good land. He 
devotes most of his time to the care of this place. 
Mrs. Smith died in 1880, a member of the M. E. 
Church; Mr. Smith is associated with the U. P. 
Church, and in politics he is a Republican. 




OBERT H. HILL, one of the many highly 
esteemed farmer citizens of East Bethle- 
hem township, is a grandson of Stephen 
- Hill, an early settler of that township, 
who married a Miss Welsh, and had by 
her the following named children: George, John 
W., William, Robert, Stephen, Elenor, Mary, 
Margaret and Nancy. Of this family, William 
and Robert are living, the former in the borough 
of Washington, the latter in West Bethlehem 
township. 



John W. Hill, father of Robert H. , was born in 
1800 in West Bethlehem township, Washington Co., 
Penn., and was reared to agricultural pursuits, his 
education being received at the subscription school 
of the vicinity, held in an old log cabin, and the 
copy book used by him is now in the possession of 
our subject. In 1825 he married Susan Hawkins, 
who was born in 1808, a daughter of William and 
Nancy Hawkins, and for a few years the young 
couple continued to reside in West Bethlehem 
township. In 1832 Mr. Hill bought a farm in 
East Bethlehem (where his son, Robert H. , uow 
resides), and here successfully carried on farming 
the rest of his life; he died April 21, 1857, thirty- 
one years after his marriage, and his widow sur- 
vived him thirty-one years, dying in Beallsville, 
Penn., October 6, 1887. The children born to 
them were: William, in East Bethlehem township; 
Robert H. ; George; John, deceased; Joseph, in 
Beallsville; Stephen, living with Robert H.; Mary 
Ann, married to Mr. Bishop, of Claysville, Penn. ; 
Sarah Ellen, wife of Christopher Horton, in Cen- 
treville, Penn. ; Eliza Jane, Mrs. Thomas Sargent, 
in Beallsville; Margaret E. (Mrs. Enloe), in Clays- 
ville, Penn., and two that died in infancy. The 
father was a Republican during the later years of 
his life, in former years a Whig; socially he was 
a F. & A. M., in church matters a Methodist. 

Robert H. Hill was born July 12, 1832, on the 
farm now owned by him in East Bethlehem town- 
ship, and was there reared to the occupation of his 
forefathers, his school training being restricted to 
a few months' attendance, in winter time, at the 
subscription schools of the vicinity. In 1867 he 
married Caroline Keys, who was born in 1836, a 
daughter of Abram Keys, of East Bethlehem town- 
ship, and by this union there has been born one 
child, Cora May. Like his father before him, Mr. 
Hill is a Republican in politics, and in church con- 
nection a Methodist. His fertile and well-kept 
farm comprises 100 acres of prime land, devoted 
to general farming inclusive of stock raising, the. 
breeding of sheep being a specialty with him. His 
comfortable and elegant residence is well situated, 
and provided with all modern improvements. 




RS. DELILA KEYS, widow of Parker 
Keys, was born January 8, 1838, on a 
farm in Greene county, Penn. She is a 
daughter of John Goodwin, a native of 
York, Penn., who came to Greene county 
young man. He followed farming and 
, and was married to Sarah Gordon, who 
bore him the following children: Jackson, Daniel. 
William. Seth, John, Elizabeth (widow of Sylvester 
Rush), Mrs. Jane Webster, Mrs. Mary Richey, 
Mrs. Sarah Shuver, Lucinda (deceased) and 
Delila. Of this family all except our subject are 



744 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



residents of Greene county, Penn. Delila Good- 
win was uaited in marriage, in 1N55, to Parker 
Keys, son of Enoch Keys. 

Parker Keys was born in 1826, on the farm in 
East Bethlehem township, Washington Co., Penn., 
which is now owned by his heirs. He received a 
common-school education, and learned agricultural 
pursuits, which he followed, farming all his life. 
He and his wife were the parents of six children. 
He was a Democrat in his political preferences, but 
voted independently when the occasion in his 
opinion required it. He died February 4, L891, 
at the age of sixty -five years, since which time his 
widow and children have resided on the home farm, 
consisting of ninety-four acres of valuable land. 
She and all her children are devout members of 
the Baptist Church. 



JAMES A. MOUNTS, one of the leading 
representative farmers of Franklin township, 
of which he is a native, was born January 14, 
1845, a son of Richard R. and Margaret 
(Johnson) Mounts. Our subject was educated at 
the schools of the district, the attendance being 
limited to a few weeks during the winter season, 
and the remainder of the year occupied in assist- 
ing on his father's farm, and learning the practi- 
cal lessons of agricultural labor. From earliest 
life he has been accustomed to hard work, and he 
is now the owner of some 280 acres of prime land 
in an excellent state of cultivation. In 1870 Mr. 
Mounts married Martha, daughter of J. W. 
Chambers, and of this union the following named 
children were born: Margaret (Mrs. Brook Ander- 
son), Harriet (Mrs. Mike Buckley), Jennie, Nellie 
and John W. The mother was called from earth 
January 27, 1891, deeply lamented by all who 
knew her. In political life Mr. Mounts has 
always been an active worker in the ranks of the 
Republican party, and in Church matters a liberal 
*<nd earnest supporter of the Presbyterian Church 
at Buffalo. 



d | AMES CASSIDY, a leading citizen and re- 
tired farmer of Burgettstown, was born June 
J 6, 1825, in Jefferson township, Washington 
county, and is of Irish parentage. 
John Cassidy (father of subject) was born in 
1792, in County Donegal, Ireland, where his boy- 
hood was passed. In early life he crossed the 
ocean in a sailing vessel, the voyage occupying 
eleven weeks and two days. He landed at Phila- 
delphia, and for a few years was employed in a 
powder-mil] there. The young pioneer then pro- 
ceeded on foot to Westmoreland county, Penn., 
afterward revisited Philadelphia, and again walked 
to Westmoreland county, where he was married to 



Jane, daughter of James Osburn. In 1816 the 
young couple settled on a farm in Jefferson town- 
ship, this county, near the Virginia line, and re- 
sided there a few years, thence moving to the wild 
tract which has now been transformed by cultiva- 
tion into a pleasant and comfortable home. In 
this wild country, surrounded by savage beasts, 
and yet more savage men, their children were born 
and reared as follows: Margaret (wife of Charles 
Scott), William (deceased), Ann (married to Rob- 
ert M. Smith), James (whose name opens this 
sketch), Robert, Mary J. (Mrs. Charles Scott), 
Catherine E. (married to Frances Magee), and 
Martha E. (wife of Johu Gillespie). Mr. Cassidy 
made several journeys to Philadelphia on horse- 
back, bringing back salt to his home. They raised 
their own flax, and made their clothing from that 
plant and from wool. Grain was cut with a sickle, 
threshed by tramping of horses, and cleaned by a 
sheet and "fanning." Politically John Cassidy 
was a Whig and Republican, and in religion an 
earnest, active member of the Protestant Methodist 
Church. He died in 1870, and was buried at 
Bethel Church in Jefferson township, this county. 
James Cassidy remained on the home farm in 
Jefferson township, during his boyhood, and was 
an irregular student at the school which was held 
in a rude log cabin near his home. On January 
31. 1856, he was united in marriage with Maria, 
daughter of Hugh Cosgrove, and granddanghter 
of Michael Cosgrove, who was born in Ireland, 
and after coming to America was married to Annie 
Campbell, a native of Maryland, who bore him 
four children: William, Margaret, Hugh and 
Hannah. The parents of this family settled in 
Maryland after their marriage, and the father fol- 
lowed farming. He was a Democrat in politics, 
and in religion a member of the Society of 
Friends. Hugh Cosgrove was born April 2, 1784, 
in the State of Maryland, passing his youth on the 
home farm, and also teaching school. He was 
married to Priscilla Jones, who was born March 
15, 1789, daughter of Samuel Jones, of Maryland, 
and she bore him the following children: Eliza A. 
(wife of Rev. Jacob Comstock), William, Thomas, 
Amelia (Mrs. Isaac Everett), Catherine, Maria 
(married to James Cassidy) and Hannah (wife of 
William Thompson). Mr. and Mrs. Cosgrove 
passed the first years of their married life in Mary- 
land, but finally decided to leave their native 
State. The journey was made in a two-horse 
wagon, which contained the emigrants and their 
entire stock of worldly goods. They purchased 
and located upon a farm in Jefferson township, 
Washington county, Penn., where the remainder 
of their lives was passed. Mr. Cosgrove accumu- 
lated a good property after locating in Pennsylva- 
nia. He was a Democrat, serving his township as 
school director, aud in religion supported the 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



74f> 



Methodist Church. Mrs. Priscilla Cosgrove died 
January 17, 1847, and Hugh Cosgrove on March 
4, 1854. Both are buried iu the Eldersville 
cemetery. 

James and Maria (Cosgrove) Cassidy resided on 
the home place in Jefferson township about seven 
years after their marriage. They then moved to 
Monroe township, Carroll Co., Ohio, remaining 
there five years, thence returning to Washington 
county, Penn., located iu Independence township. 
Four and one-half years later Mr. Cassidy bought 
a farm in Cross Creek township, and in 1891 they 
moved to their present home in Burgettstown. 
The following children have been born to their 
marriage: Vista (deceased), Robert C. (married 
to Jennie M., daughter of George W. 
has one daughter, Ora), William J. 
Fannie, daughter of Rev. Tuttle, and 
Herschel), and Oliver J. Politically 
was originally a Whig, uniting with 
lican party at the date of its organization, and has 
served his township as director; he is especially 
interested in educational matters. In religious 
faith he is a member and liberal supporter of the 
Methodist Church. 



Osburn, and 
(married to 
has one son 

Mr. Cassidy 
the Repub- 




to Washington, where he was employed to haul 
freight to Philadelphia and other points east of the 
mountains. Since then he has been engaged in 
various occupations, of late years having passed 
the greater part of his time upon the farm, but is 
now living a retired life with his brother-in-law, 
Robert Stewart, having never married. In politics 
Mr. Provines is a stanch Democrat, and has never 
missed but one election since he came of age. He 
has voted in the States of Ohio, Pennsylvania and 
Maryland. 



I( NDREW PROVINES has passed his eighty - 
|\ seventh birthday, and is now as hale and 
hearty as many a man of twenty years his 
junior. He is a son of William Provines. 
whose father, John, was born and reared 
among the hills of Scotland, where he was married 
and whence a few years later he moved to Ireland. 
William, the son of John Provines, was born in 
Scotland, and came with the family to Ireland 
when a boy. He was there reared to agricultural 
pursuits, and was married to Rebecca Hemphill, a 
native of Ireland. William Provines remained in 
Ireland about ten years after his marriage, where 
his eldest five children were born : Mary. Samuel. 
Andrew, John and Robert. At the end of that 
time, the family came to America, locating in 
Washington county, where children were born as 
follows: Margaret, James, Sarah, Jane and Re- 
becca. 

Andrew Provines, the third child of William 
and Rebecca (Hemphill) Provines, was born August 
11, 1805, in County Tyrone, Ireland, being seven 
years of age when his parents emigrated to Amer- 
ica. They embarked in a sailing vessel named 
" William S. Bradford," and landed in New York, 
thence proceeding to the home farm in Washing- 
ton county, of which our subject still owns a por- 
tion. Here Andrew grew to manhood and assisted 
in the general duties of a farm. At the age of 
eighteen years he began to work for neighboring 
farmers at a salary of $8. per month. He con- 
tinued in this employment several years, then went 




OBERT STEWART. Of the prosperous 
and highly esteemed citizens of Jefferson 
township, none are more universally es- 
teemed or more widely known than the 
gentlemaD whose name introduces this ar- 
ticle. The Stewart family trace their lineage back 
through the generations to one Lord Stewart, a na- 
tive of Scotland, who afterward settled in County 
Tyrone, Ireland, at a place known as Foggy Hill. 
James Stewart, a descendant of the old Scottish 
nobleman just mentioned, was married to Elizabeth 
Hemphill, and with his family sailed from Ireland 
for America on the ship "Doras." Along and 
tedious voyage followed, during which the vessel 
was boarded by a British man-of-war, and all the 
able bodied men of the " Doras," as was custom- 
ary in time of war, were impressed into the navy. 
Among those who were thus obliged to render un- 
willing service to the English Government was a 
son of James Stewart, named Robert, a youth of 
eighteen years. He was taken on board a British 
man-of-war, where he remained several months, 
finally obtaining his release through the efforts of 
his father, who persuaded a young lady to claim 
him as her husband. The ruse succeeded, and the 
young man was liberated, after which he came on to 
America, and first located in Philadelphia, whence 
after a year he joined the family in Smith town- 
ship, Washington Co., Penn., whither they had 
preceded him. In course of time he moved to Mt. 
Pleasant township, where his father died. Here he 
was soon after married to Miss Ann McGough, 
also a native of Ireland, and though history is 
silent concerning the identity of the self-sacrificing 
young lady who freed young Robert from im- 
prisonment, yet romance would fain hope that she 
and his chosen bride were one. However, there is 
no foundation for the supposition, and historians 
are expected to confine their statements to known 
facts. After marriage Robert and Ann (McGough) 
Stewart went to Jefferson township, and they 
reared a family of six children, named John, Eliz- 
abeth (Mrs. Kidd), Sarah, Robert, James and 
Andrew. The father was a Democrat, and a mem- 
ber of the TJ. P. Church. 

Robert Stewart was born May 21, 1824, on the 



746 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



home farm in Jefferson township, this county, 
where lie passed his youth in attending school and 
-assisting with the general farm duties. He married 
Miss Sarah Jane Elliott, who bore him three chil- 
dren: John Elliott (born March 13, 1853), James 
(born November 25, 1855), and Robert (born Feb- 
ruary 26, 1858). The mother died September 25, 
1 858, and for his second wife Mr. Stewart was 
married to Miss Eliza Orr, of Irish descent, who 
died soon afterward, and June 17, 1864, he 
wedded, for his third wife, Miss Rebecca H. , 
daughter of William Frovines, who came from Ire- 
land and settled in Jefferson township, this county. 
Robert Stewart is a popular and prosperous citizen. 
In political opinions he has always voted the Dem- 
ocratic ticket, being a counselor and adviser of that 
party, and in religious faith he gives a hearty sup- 
port to the TJ. P. Church, of which his wife is a 
member. 




ERNARD C. JACKMAN. This well-known 
gentleman is a representative of a pioneer 
family of Washington county. His grand- 
parents, William and Elizabeth (Conley) 
Jaekman, were born in County Cavan, Ireland, 
and emigrated in 1789. They settled on a large 
tract of land in East Pike Run township, Wash- 
ington Co., Penn.; where the following children 
were born and reared: Bernard, William, Mary, 
Eliza, Joshua, John, Margaret, Nancy, and four 
who died in infancy. 

John Jaekman, son of William and Elizabeth 
Jaekman, was born on the farm in East Pike Run 
township, this county, and received a subscription- 
school education. Iu early life he was married to 
Phoebe Taylor, daughter of William and Phoebe 
(Kirkwood) Taylor. Her parents were of Scotch- 
Irish desceut, and after coming to Pennsylvania 
bought 160 acres on the National pike, between 
Beallsville and Brownsville, Penn. Mr. Taylor 
then conducted a tavern for several years, and also 
built the first M. E. Church in that locality, which 
is yet known by his name. The children of this 
family were born as follows: Edward, Sophia, 
William, Isaac (who died in his one hundredth 
year), Phebe, George, Joshua, Ann, John, and 
others who died in infancy. The parents both 
died on the old place, and were buried in the 
cemetery of the Taylor M. E. Church. To the 
union of John and Phebe (Ta}'lor) Jaekman eight 
children were born, namely: Elizabeth, wife of 
Wesley H. Taylor, a resident of Carroll county, 
Ohio; Bernard C , whose name opens this sketch; 
Mary A., Edwin, Caroline, and three who died in 
infancy. The father was a farmer, and for a num- 
ber of years served as local preacher at the Taylor 
M. E. Church, with which his wife was also iden- 
tified. He also erected the first log school house 



in the neighborhood, serving for many years as 
school director, and doing all in his power to pro- 
mote the educational and religious interests of the 
community. He was actively identified with the 
Whig party, and was one of the most influential 
men of his neighborhood. He died in 1861, fol- 
lowed by Mrs. Jaekman in 1878. 

Bernard C. Jaekman was born August 2(5, 1S21. 
in East Pike Run township, Washington Co., 
Penn. He attended the public schools, and in 
1852 was united in marriage with Ruth Lilley, 
who was born in 1829, in East Pike Run township. 
She is a daughter of Ellis and Elizabeth (Phillips) 
Lilley, who were pioneer settlers of this county. 
The children of Mr. and Mrs. Lilley were Solo- 
mon, residing in Alliance, Ohio; Ruth, wife of 
Bernard C. Jaekman; Elizabeth, a resident of 
Ohio; Thomas, deceased; Phebe, living in Ohio, 
and Alica, deceased. Both parents were members 
of the Quaker Church. The father died in 1872. 
Mr. and Mrs. Jaekman reside on the old home- 
stead, consisting of 132 acres of land, upon which 
good buildings and other improvements have beeu 
erected. He votes with the Republican party, and 
has been school director for several years. They 
are the parents of three children, namely: Phebe 
E. (deceased), Hattie M. (wife of John F. Colvin, 
a farmer of East Pike Run township), and Wilbur 
S. , a teacher in the Cook County Normal School at 
Chicago. 

As already stated, Mr. Jackman's grandparents 
were natives of Cavan, Ireland, with the exception 
of the grandmother, Phoebe (Hardman) Taylor, who 
was born in the Scottish Highlands, and came to 
Ireland with her parents (Moxruder Hardman and 
wife) to escape the Cromwellian atrocities. "Sirs. 
Hardman, nee Miss Kirkwood, became owner of 
1,000 acres of land near Dublin. Phoebe Hard- 



man married William Taylor. 
1754, and emigrated in 1789. 
grandparents are as follows: 
eighty-eight years; Elizabeth 
eighty-five years; William Jaekman, 
years, and Phcebe Hardman, his wife, 



He was born in 

The ages of the 

William Jaekman, 

Conley, his wife, 

eighty-six 

ninetv-six 



years. Away back in 1831 William Jaekman pro- 
vided whisky for his harvesters. One of the men 
tasted it too freely, returned to his cabin and 
whipped his wife. On Mr. Jaekman learning of 
this he emptied the whisky on the ground and in- 
troduced temperance in the harvest field, being the 
pioneer of the cause in this section of the State. 



MfATTHEW R. WELCH. In the foremost 
rank of the honored and prosperous citi- 
zens of Smith township is the name of 
II -* this gentleman gladly welcomed. His 
father was Matthew Welch, who was born 
in County Down, Ireland. 






i $b 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



747 



Matthew Welch (the father) was educated in his 
native country, and, at the age of twenty-four 
years, crossed the ocean in a sailing vessel, the 
voyage occupying eight weeks. He landed in 
New York, proceeding thence to Lancaster county, 
Perm. After residing in that county for about 
four years in 1797 he was united in marriage with 
Elizabeth, daughter of William Reed. The young 
couple resided in Lancaster county three years af- 
ter their marriage, and in 1802 moved to Wash 
ington county, Penn., the journey being made in 
an emigrant wagon containing their household 
goods and provisions, drawn by four horses. 
They were three weeks on the road, and finally 
settled until spring on a small place in Smith 
township, this county. They bought a place two 
miles distant, and immediately began to make im- 
provements upon it, afterward raising a large 
amount of stock. In politics Matthew Welch was 
a Whig, and in religion a member of the Seceder 
Church, at Burgettstown, to which he gave a 
hearty support. He died in 1851, and in 1873 his 
widow was laid beside him in the United Presby- 
terian cemetery at Burgettstown. The children 
born to this marriage were:/KTsal)ella (wife of 
William Galbraith),?»Mary (married to William 
Canipbell^'&ane (wife of James McNary)rNancy 
(Mrs. Mark Stephensou)/'Elizabeth (wife of Robert 
McBurney))<Margaret (Mrs. Thomas McCoikle), 
J* Rachel (married to R. K. Scott), Julia Xffwife of 
James Vincent), HanuaLf^Xmarried to Matthew 
Welch), and Matthew R.Vkif this family Mrs. 
Robert McBurney, Mrs. Thomas McCorkle, Mrs. 
James Vincent, Mrs. Matthew Welch and Matthew 
R. Welch are yet living. 

Matthew R. Welch was born December 19, 1826, 
on the home farm, in Smith township, where his 
boyhood was passed in working on the farm and 
attending school three months each year. The 
schoolhouse was built of logs and furnished with 
slab seats and writing desks, an ordinary quill pen 
being used for the practice. On October 17, 1850, 
he was united in marriage with Mary, daughter of 
John and granddaughter of John White. John 
White, the grandfather, was born and reared in 
eastern Pennsylvania, where he was married to 
Ann Bonar. They made a permanent home in 
Chartiers township, near Cook's Station, where he 
purchased a large tract of land. Their children 
were James, Nancy (wife of Alexander McElroy), 
Ann (married to John Anderson), Mary (Mrs. John 
McCall), Sarah (wife of William Stewart), Will- 
iam, John, Ebenezer, Samuel, Jane, David, Mat- 
thew, and Margaret, who married John Malone. 
The father was a Whig. He was a member of 
the Associate Reformed Church. 

John White was born in 1786, near Canonsburg, 
Chartiers township, and in early life began to 
haul goods over the mountains, having carried 



ammunition for the Government during the war 
of 1812. In 1814 he was united in marriage with 
Mary, daughter of John May, of Cecil township, 
this county, who bore him the following children: 
Ann (Mrs. John Scott), Phoebe (wife of John Far- 
rar), Julia, Jane, John, James, Mary (wife of Mat- 
thew R. Welch), Nancy (married to John Reed), 
Alexander and Samuel. Of these children, Julia, 
Jane, John and Alexander are deceased. In 1814 
Mr. and Mrs. White located on Raccoon creek, in 
Smith township. Selling out in 1850, they 
bought a farm iu Allegheny county, Penn. , where 
they resided eight months. Thence they moved 
to Belmont county, Ohio, and lived there two years, 
finally returning to Canonsburg, where he died. 
Politically Mr. White was a Whig and Republican, 
and held many township offices. In church re- 
lations he was a member and elder of the Asso- 
ciate Reformed Church. 

Matthew R. and Mary (White) Welch first set- 
tled on the home place, in Smith township, but 
in 1889 moved to Burgettstown, where they are 
yet living. Five children have been born to them: 
Elizabeth M. (wife of M. L. Cook), Anna M. (Mrs. 
J. L. Malcolm), John W. (married to M. A. Daugh- 
erty), Jennie (Mrs. Robert Russell) and Julia B. 
(wife of J. C. Morrow). Mr. Welch has been a 
Republican iu politics, and has held various town- 
ship offices; he has ever been especially interested 
in the progress of educational matters. He is a 
member of the U. P. Church, and of the Session; 
formerly he was a member of the Associate Church 
of Burgettstown. 



¥- 



OBERT D. WYLIE, a well-known repre- 
sentative, native born citizen of South Stra- 
bane township, is descended from rugged 
^ Scotch ancestry, of whom the first to come 
to this country were three brothers — two 
settling in eastern Pennsylvania, the third, the 
great-great-grandfather of the subject of this 
sketch, taking up his abode in the western part of 
the State. 

David Wylie, father of Robert D., was born, in 
1799, near Wheeling, W. Va., where he was reared 
and educated. When a young man he came to this 
county, and for a time made his home in the 
borough of Washington, with Hugh Wylie, his 
uncle, at that time a leading citizen of the county. 
Hugh Wylie was postmaster at Washington, his 
nephew, David, being his assistant, and served 
during three administrations, the office during that 
period being important as a distributing one for 
Pittsburgh and all points west. In 1828 David 
Wylie married Eunice, daughter of David Hanna, 
of Columbiana county, Ohio, and they then settled 
on the place where David Wylie passed the re- 
mainder of his days. By this union there was 



748 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



one child, Eunice H. (Mrs. E. M. Mansley), de- 
ceased. This wife dying, Mr. Wylie married, 
June 1, 1831, for his second helpmate, Harriet 
Belle, daughter of Gen. Robert Simison, of Colum- 
biana county, Ohio, who had been a Revolution- 
ary soldier under Washington, and was afterward 
sent west, during the latter's administration, to 
survey the State of Ohio, at which time he took up 
a large tract of land in what is now Columbiana 
county. He commanded, as brigadier-general, a 
division of the army detailed to keep the Indians 
in check, and, while on a forced march, was seized 
with a fever from which he died. He was a native 
of Oumberlaud county, Penn., where he married 
Margaret Sanderson. They had seven children as 
follows: Elizabeth* who became the wife of Robert 
Leonard, of Hancock county, Ohio); Jane (wife of 
William Blanchard, of Lawrence county, Penn.); 
Margaret (wife of Robert Filson, in Columbiana 
county, Ohio); Martha (wife of James Scott, in 
Jack-urn county. Iowa); Ann, unmarried; Harriet 
Belle (wife of David Wylie) and Samuel S. By 
this marriage Mr. Wylie had a family of ten chil- 
dren, of whom the following is a brief record: 
Tappan W. died March 1, 1871; Hugh H. died in 
1834; Simison R., living at home; Edmund B., in 
Jackson county, Iowa; Robert D. , our subject, of 
whom special mention is made further on; William 
S., Catherine I. and James S. (triplets), all de- 
ceased; Rev. Samuel S.aud David Austin. Of these, 
Tappan W. attended Washington College three 
years, and married Nancy, daughter of Ebenezer 
McLean, of Washington county, Penn. He was a 
soldier in the Civil war, serving in the army of the 
Potomac; he was killed in 1871 by the explosion 
of a boiler; Simison R. attended Washington 
College two years, after which he engaged in farm- 
ing on the home farm in South Strabane township, 
where he still resides: he is still unmarried. Ed- 
mund B. attended Washington College two years 
and was married, in 1869, to Lizzie McConnell. a 
native of Beaver county, Penn., and their children 
are Robert B., Clyde K. , Scott and Harry B. 
Edmund B. enlisted in August, 1S62, and served 
throughout the entire war with Sherman, being at 
his post of duty without intermission. Since 1865 
he has resided in Jackson county, Iowa, where he 
owns and manages a large and profitable farm. 
Samuel S. graduated from Washington and Jeffer- 
son College in 1866, studied theology for two 
years at the Western Theological Seminary, Alle- 
gheny, Penn., and one year in Edinburgh, Scot- 
land (he settled at Middle Springs, Cumberland 
Co.. Penn. , as pastor of the Presbyterian Church 
at that place, in 187'.!, where he now resides, hav- 
ing had but one charge in the ministry. While a 
student at college he enlisted inKnapp'sBatteryand 
served his country in guarding Washington, D. C, 
for six months. On November 9, 1873, he was mar- 



ried to Jane M. McCune, of Cumberland county, 
Penn., and his children are Hattie M., Eva and Sam- 
uel S.). David Wylie, the father of this family, died 
April 13, 1879, the mother August 25, 1883. Mr. 
Wylie commenced with 100 acres of wild land, 
which he vastly improved and greatly added to. 
In politics he was a Whig, afterward a Republican, 
and was one of the leading men in his party; in 
religion he was a member for many years of the 
Presbyterian Church in Chartiers township. 

Robert D. Wylie, whose name opens this sketch, 
was born August 23, 1840, on the farm where he 
now resides; and in the same house, and was here 
reared. His primary education was received in 
the schools of the district. In 1857 he entered 
Washington (Penn.) Union School, attending that 
school for two years. In 1859 he was enrolled in 
the senior prep, class of Washington College, 
and went without interruption until he grad- 
uated in September, 1863, being graded fifth in 
his class. Soon after graduation he undertook to 
fill the different positions of tutor of ancient 
languages and professor pro tern, of mathematics 
in the same institution. In 1868 he gave up teach- 
ing as a profession. During that year he was 
entered as a law student in Washington bar, read- 
ing with Alex. Wilson; but owing to continued ill 
health, at the urgent solicitation of his parents he 
reluctantly gave up a profession and concluded to 
try farming. Since 1869 he has been actively 
engaged in farming on the farm where he now 
resides. On June 14, 1882, he was married to 
Margaret E. Walker, youngest daughter of Jona- 
than Walker, of Butler county, Penn. They have 
two living children: Walker M. and Leila M. McK. 
Wylie. R. D. Wylie is a member of the Presby- 
terian Church, and Mrs. Wylie is a member of the 
Lutheran church. 



^r 5 ^ OBERT WRIGHT, a representative native- 
L»^ born citizen of the county, is one of the 
C V, most prominent and influential agricultur- 
al) -^ ists of Buffalo township, standing well with 
v his neighbors, respected far and wide for 

his many good qualities of head and heart; one 
who has prospered in those things that make even 
the humblest life well worth living. 

Mr. Wright was born March 8, 1812, in Buffalo 
township, where he received his education at the 
subscription schools of his boyhood days, which 
was supplemented by considerable home study and 

1 close reading. His paternal grandfather, William 
Wright, a native of Ireland, followed the trade of 
weaver in County Monaghan, in that country. He 

] was there twice married, and had the following 
named children: William, Thomas, Robert, John 
and Samuel. In 1785 he came to America, and 
after a short sojourn iu Chester county, Penn., set- 



WASHINGTON CO UN TY. 



751 



tied in Buffalo township, this county, where he 
continued to follow his trade. Here he and his 
wife died. He was a member of the Associate 
Church, and in politics was a Whig. 

Samuel Wright, father of subject, was born in 
Ireland in 17S2, and when a young lad came with 
the rest of the family to America. In Buffalo 
township, this county, he commenced farming on 
a place which was then entirely wild, but which he 
and his family by dint of hard labor in course of 
time reduced to a condition of fertility. About 
1804 he was married to Rachel, daughter of 
Thomas Hill, of Donegal township, but a native of 
Ireland, and their children were Mary (Mrs 
Thomas Carson), William, Thomas. Robert, Sam- 
uel and John, all deceased except Robert. After 
t he death of the mother of these children, which 
occurred February 8, 1817, Mr. Wright married 
Mary Howe, who bore him three children: James, 
Aim {Mrs. Samuel Graham) and Rachel (all de- 
ceased). The father died January 24, L849, in his 
sixty-eighth year; the mother December 5, is 11. 

Robert Wright, whose name opens this sketch, 
in 1847 married Susanna, daughter of Samuel 
Neely, and one child, Robert N. (now a prosper- 
ous farmer in Donegal township), was born to 
them. The mother died in 1850, and June 18, 
1857, Mr. Wright married Margaret L. , daughter 
of Robert McNeal, of Claysville, this county, by 
which union there are two children: Mary (wife of 
Isaac Grimes) and John S., born October 14, 1865, 
now conducting the home farm (he was married 
September 30, 1890, to Miss Lou B. Crawford). 
After his first marriage, Robert Wright continued 
to live for some thirty years on the home place, the 
dwelling being an old log cabin, and then erected 
his present commodious residence, which is well 
situated, and admirably equipped with all modern 
improvements. The farm he cleared up and im- 
proved with his own hands. He and his worthy 
wife were originally connected with the Associate 
Church, but of late years they have been members 
of the United Presbyterian Church at South Buf- 
falo, he being one of its most influential support- 
ers, and a trustee of same. Mr. Wright has al- 
ways taken an active part in politics, lirst as a 
Whig, then as a member of the Liberty party, and 
of late years as a Republican; aud while taking an 
active interest in all movements for the good of 
the country, he has invariably avoided public pre- 
ferments. By hard, honest work, judicious econ- 
omy and sound judgment, he has secured a com- 
petence, being now one of the most extensive and 
prosperous farmers in his section. [Since the 
above was written, Mr. Wright died December '27, 
L892. 

Robert McNeal, father of Mrs. Wright, was 
born February 3, 1789, and learned the trade of 
blacksmith. His parents came from Scotland at 



an early day, settling near Pittsburgh, Penn. 
Robert McNeal married Polly Long, and to them 
was born one child: Jane L. On January 4, 1825, 
he married Isabella Bonar, a native of Donegal 
township, Washington county, born December 26, 
1797, and to them were born the following chil- 
dren: John H, who died May 3, 1859; James 
B., who enlisted in the war of 1801-05, and died 
in hospital September 4, 1804, from the effects of 
a wound received in the battle of Jonesborough; 
Nelson R., who served through the Civil war, 
and now resides in Donegal township; Margaret 
L. (Mrs. Robert Wright); Sarah F. , deceased at 
the age of eight years. Mr. and Mrs. McNeal 
located in Claysville, Penn., where he followed his 
trade many years. He died November 28, 1863, 
his wife having preceded him across the River 
July S, 1855. 



T'HOMAS STOCKTON is a representative of 
one of the oldest families of Franklin town- 
ship. Thomas Stockton, the ancestor of the 
family in Pennsylvania, was a native of Vir- 
ginia, and at an early age came to Cham- 
bersburgh, Franklin Co., Penn. He was formany 
years; i member and elder in the Presbyterian Church. 
He died May 31, 1795, aged eighty-six years, of 
whooping-cough, at the house of his son-in law, 
William Waddell, in Mercersburgh, Penn. (William 
Waddell was a brother of Rev. James Waddell, of 
Virginia, whose daughter, Jeanette, was married 
to Rev. Archibald Alexander, D. D.). Mr. Stock- 
ton reared the following children: Thomas, John, 
David, Robert, Elizabeth (Mrs. Waddell), Isabella 
(Mrs. Neilson), .Mary (Mrs. Bard), and Margaret 
(Mrs. Johnston). 

Robert Stockton was born October 19, 1737, in 
eastern Pennsylvania, near Chambersburgh, and on 
December 22, 1761, he was married to Mary Mc- 
Kennie. Mr. Stockton served in the Revolution- 
ary war, taking part in the battles of Trenton and 
Monmouth. He moved to Washington county in 
1782, and in the following July purchased a farm 
of Peter Jolly, which was named in the survey 
"Beaver Dam." It is situated* three aud a half 
miles west of Washington borough, in Franklin 
township, and is still in the possession of the fam- 
ily. To Mr. and Mrs. Robert (McKennie) Stock- 
ton were born the following children: Thomas, 
Col. Robert, Margaret (wife of Col. John Cotton, of 
Meadville, Penn.), Frances (Mrs. Charles Stewart), 
Jane (wife of Rev. John Brice), John (married to 
Margaret McCombs), Rev. Joseph (married to Esther 
Clark) and Elizabeth (wife of Rev. James Cun- 
ningham, of Ohio). Col. John Cotton and Col. 
Robert Stockton were both elders of the Presbyte- 
rian Church at Meadville, Penn. 

Thomas Stockton inherited the old Stockton 



752 



WASHINGTON COUNT F. 



place together with his brother John, who after- 
ward died, when Thomas purchased the remainder 
of the farm. He was united in marriage with Miss 
Sarah Graham, and the children born to them were 
as follows: Robert, Thomas, John, Mary and Sarah. 
Mr. Stockton was a Whig in politics, and in relig- 
ious belief was for many years a member of the 
First Presbyterian Church of Washington, in which 
he was an elder. 

Robert Stockton, son of Thomas and Sarah (Gra- 
ham) Stockton, passed his youth on the home 
farm, and was united in marriage with Rebecca, 
daughter of John and Sarah Wilson. To their 
union were born children as follows: Thomas V., 
John Wilson, Emma O'Ella (Mrs. C. C. Cozad) 
and Maggie (Mrs. A. R. Gayhort). Mr. Stockton 
was a leading member of the Presbyterian Church 
al Washington. In politics he was a Whig and 
Republican. He died in October, 1864, aged sixty- 
si veu years. 

Thomas V. Stockton, son of Robert and Rebecca 
(Wilson) Stockton, is unmarried, and has managed 
the home farm since the death of his father. He 
is an enterprising young citizen of Franklin town- 
ship, anil a member of the Republican part}'. 

Dr. John Wilson Stockton graduated in the sci- 
entific department of Washington and Jefferson 
College in 1868; he graduated from the Eclectic 
Medical College, Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1877. He 
was married August 8, 1890, to Romayne Wade 
McKown, of Allegheny county. He is located ai 
present at Washington, Penn., where he is engaged 
in the practice of his chosen profession. 



DANIEL B. MOWRY was born November 17, 
1 1827, in Allegheny county, Penn., near 
/ Pittsburgh. His father, also named Daniel, 
was born in 1783, and was married to Jane, 
daughter of William Wylie, of Washington county, 
of the lineage of David Wylie, being a full cousin, 
and the children born to this union were Margaret, 
wife of Edward Wood, now living in Philadelphia; 
William, who was killed in Custer's raid at Little 
Big Horn; John, a physician, who graduated from 
Philadelphia Medical College; Peter, deceased; 
Daniel B.; Robert G. ; George W., deceased. 
Daniel Mowrj', Sr., the father of these children, 
died in 1862; the mother, Jane Mowry, in 1874. 
In politics he was an Old line Whig, and in religion 
a member of the Covenanter Church. Mr. Mowry 
was a life resident of Pittsburgh, Penn., where he 
was for a time clerk of the courts, and, afterward, 
tipstaff. 

Daniel B. Mowry, the subject of this biograph- 
ical memoir, though born in Pittsburgh, lived with 
his grandfather Wylie during most of his minority, 
following the vocation of farming. He was united 
in marriage with Mary A., daughter of Major 



William Wilson, and the children born to them 
were William W., a major in the Pennsylvania 
Militia, and a resident of Washington, this county; 
John died in infancy; Charles E., in Pittsburgh; 
Lottie (Mrs. Herbert Wilson, of Nebraska); Harry; 
Mary A. and Sarah, of Washington county. The 
mother passed from earth August 27, 1890. In 
1861, during the war of the Rebellion, Mr. Mowry 
enlisted in Company A, One Hundredth P. V. I., 
better known as the Round Heads, and served 
throughout the entire struggle. In politics he is 
a stanch Republican, by occupation a farmer. 



'r^J T. JACKMAN is of Teutonic ancestry, his 
^V grandparents, William and Barbara (Shively) 
Jackman, having been natives of the country 
of the Rhine. They emigrated from Ger- 
many before their marriage, which ceremony took 
place in a fort on the Monongahela river, in West- 
moreland county, Penn. In 1788 William Jack- 
man took out a patent for 368 acres of land called 
"Hobson's choice," in Washington county. He 
paid the Indians, for their right, $15, a gun, and a 
blanket. He made a permanent home on this 
tract, where seven children were born to him, all 
now deceased. The parents were members of the 
Baptist Church. 

Simeon Jackman, son of William and Barbara 
(Shively) Jackman, was born, in 1795, in East Pike 
Run township, Washington Co., Penn., and there 
attended the subscription schools. In 1819 he was 
married to Mary Dunlevy, who was born in 1800, 
in East Pike Run township, and the young couple 
settled permanently on 100 acres of the original 
tract (above mentioned) in Allen township. He 
afterward bought 100 acres from his brother Cyrus, 
paying him $10 per acre. The following children 
were born to them : one deceased in infancy ; Jo- 
seph Wilson, of Henry county, 111.; Anthony D., 
a resident of El Dorado, Butler Co., Kans. ; Me- 
lissa, wife of George Morton, a Presbyterian min- 
ister of Indiana county, Penn.; Elizabeth, wife of 
James Wilson, of McLean county. 111.; Mary, mar- 
ried to John Steele, of Fayette county, Penn. 
Harriet, wife of George Hill, of McLean county, 
111.; William H., living in Wayne county, Ohio; S. 
T., whose name opens this sketch; Isaac K., living 
in Los Angeles, Gal., and Sarah D., wife of Will 
iam Dunlevy, of Butler county, Kans. Of these 
children Mary, William H., S. T. , and Isaac K. 
are yet living. The father was a Republican, and 
served for many years as justice of the peace; was 
also captain in the State Militia. He died in 1881, 
having been preceded by his wife in 1873. Both 
were members of the Presbyterian Church. 

S. T. Jackman, the only living representative of 
his family in Washington county, was born Octo- 
ber 23, 1835, in Allen township, Washington Co., 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



753 



Y""Y OBERT C. HOLMES, a successful and 

h*C well-known farmer of Cross Creek town- 

|| V ship, is a son of James Holmes, whose 

1) — * father died in Ireland, the land of his 

V birth. 

James Holmes emigrated from his native coun- 
try in 1837, and remained in New York two years 
after landing on American soil. He then lived 
four years in Westmoreland county, Penn., after- 
ward renting a place in Cross Creek township, 
Washington Co., Penn., and purchasing the home 
farm just before the Civil war. His wife was for- 
merly a Miss Margaret Thompson, to whom be was 
wedded in 1836. Children were born to -their 
union as follows: Jane, Thomas, John, James, 
Robert C, William, Thompson B. and Joseph D., 
all of whom were born after the parents had set- 
tled in America. The father followed general 
farming and sheep raising, owning a good fertile 
farm of 144 acres. In politics he affiliated with 
the Democratic party, to whose interest he was ever 
keenly active, supporting its principles with en- 
thusiastic ardor, and holding various offices of 
honor and trust in Cross Creek township, which he 



Penn. He received his earlier education in the 
subscription schools of the neighborhood, and then 
took the sophomore year at Washington College. 
In 1862 he enlisted at Pittsburgh, Penn., in Com- 
pany F, Eighteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, for 
three years or during the war, and was afterward 
promoted to the rank of first lieutenant of Com- 
pany E, in the same regiment. He served in the 
battles of Gettysburg, Wilderness, also in the Shen- 
andoah Valley and the Seven Days' fight before 
Richmond. In 1865 he received an honorable dis- 
charge at Cumberland, Md., and returned to the 
home farm in Allen township, Washington county. 
On May 20, 1868, he was married to Florence J., 
daughter of Azariah and Sarah A. (Murphy) Crow, 
pioneers of Washington county, now living in How- 
ell county, Mo. 

Mr. Jackman yet owns ninety five acres of the I 
original patent. In politics he votes with the Re- 
publican party, and served as a member of the 
sch' ml board, assessor and road commissioner of | 
Allen township. Since the Howe cemetery has 
been established Mr. Jackman has served as treas- 
urer and trustee, and is also a trustee of the Eben- 
ezer M. E. Church, of which he and his wife are 
members. Their children have been born as fol- 
lows: Nora Elsie, wife of William Steele, a grocer 
of West Belle Vernon; Leslie T. ; H. Roscoe; Ruby 
C; Mary S.; A. Parker; J. Riley (deceased at the 
age of six years) and Morton Hanson (deceased 
when seventeen months old). In 1891 Mr. and 
Mrs. Jackman moved to their present home in 
West Belle Vernon. 



filled to the satisfaction of all. In religious faith 
he was an active member of the United Presbyte- 
rian Church at West Middletown, Penn., to which 
he gave a hearty and liberal support. He died in 
1869. Of the children born to James and Mar- 
garet (Thompson) Holmes, William was married 
to Miss Emma Neely, a native of Donegal town- 
ship, Washington Co., Penn., and the following 
children have blessed their union: Robert, Jane 
M., Grover C, Joseph, James and Mary, all of 
whom are living with their parents on the old home 
farm. 

Robert C. Holmes, the fourth or fifth child of 
James and Margaret Holmes, was born in 1844. 
His boyhood and youth were passed in the arduous 
duties of farm life, and attending the district 
schools of the neighborhood. When his father 
died, Robert took entire charge of the business, 
which he is now managing with marked success, 
and caring for his aged mother, who lives with her 
son, awaiting the summons which will unite her 
again with those loved ones who have '"passed over 
the river home." 

Mrs. Margaret (Thompson) Holmes was born in 
Ireland in 1819. In IS Ml her parents came to the 
United States and settled in Chartiers township, 
Washington county, following their children. 
Mrs. Holmes was the first of the Thompson fam- 
ily to emigrate, the other children followed her 
example, and the parents ultimately decided to set- 
tle in the New World. Of the eight children who 
came hither, five are living. The mother of Mrs. 
Holmes died in Cross Creek township in 1879, 
aged eighty-seven years. 



: HOMAS A. HINDMAN, a highly esteemed 
and prosperous citizen of Cross Creek vil- 
lage, Washington Co., Penn., is a son of 
William Hiudman, and grandson of Samuel 
Hindman. The latter was born near Can- 
onsburg, in Chartiers township, this county, and 
was reared to agricultural pursuits, which he fol- 
lowed through life. When a young man he left 
Washington county and made a permanent home 
in Brooke county, W. Va. He was united in mar- 
riage with Miss Catherine Davis, a native of east- 
ern Ohio, and nine children were born to their 
union, namely: Polly, William, Rebecca, Eliza, 
Samuel, James, Margaret Ann (Mrs. Barber, of 
Knox county, Ohio), Harriet (Mrs. Murchland, of 
Colliers Station) and Evan D. (also living at Col- 
liers Station). 

William Hindman (the second child of Samuel 
and Catherine Hindman) was born in 1812, in 
Brooke county, W. Va. , growing to manhood on 
the home farm. He received a common -school 
education, which was supplemented by the reading 
of good books. He was married to Elizabeth Mc- 



754 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Cullougb, a lady of Scotch-Irish descent, and the 
following children were born to them: Andrew (a 
blacksmith living near Colliers Station, this 
county), Catherine (deceased in childhood), Samuel 
(farming in this county), Thomas A. (subject of 
this sketch), Charles (died when quite young), 
Jane (living in Dennison, Ohio), Mary (also a resi- 
dent of Dennison, Ohio), Eliza (deceased), Evan (a 
farmer of Cross Creek township, Va.), an unnamed 
infant (deceased), Rebecca, William (died when 
eight years of age), and George, all living near 
Colliers Station. The father of this family pos- 
sessed a remarkable memory, and was consid- 
ered one of the most intelligent men of the com- 
munity. He was a man of generous impulses 
and warm sympathies', never allowing any person 
to leave his door hungry, or refusing aid to worthy 
objects of charity. 

Thomas A. Hindman was born January 23, 1S40, 
in Brooke county, W. Va., where he worked on the 
farm during his boyhood. At the age of eighteen 
years he learned the blacksmith's trade with his 
brother Andrew, then worked as a journeyman, 
traveling over several States, and finally, in 1865, 
settled in Cross Creek village, this county, where 
he opened a blacksmith shop. In 180S he sold 
out. and returning to Brooke county, W. Va. , 
worked two years for his brother Andrew. At the 
end of that time he returned to Cross Creek village, 
and purchasing his old shop, has since remained 
in the place. On November 8, 1871, he was united 
in marriage with Miss Hannah Stephenson, 
daughter of Mark Stephenson, of Smith township, 
this county. Three children have been born to 
their union: Delia May, Audley Oliver and Nettie 
Pearl. Delia M. and Audley O. have attended 
the Cross Creek Academy for several years, the 
latter now being a student of the Northwestern 
University at Ada, Ohio. Mr. Hindman began life 
with no assistance from home, and by industry 
and perseverance is now one of the best and most 
successful workmen, owning one of the finest black- 
smith shops in Washington county. In politics he 
is a stanch Democrat, and in religion a member of 
the Presbyterian Church of Cross Creek village. 



Catherine (wife of L. Culbertson), Caroline (mar- 
ried to William Hamilton) and Maggie (Mrs. F. 
Irwin). The father died in 1886; the mother is 
yet living. 

James H. Barkley was born May 12, 1850, in 
Washington county, where his youth was passed. 
He worked in a sawmill for three years for Maj. 
James Gaston, and on March 10, 188l>, made choice 
of a life companion in the person of Patience B. 
Hamilton, a native of this county, and daughter of 
James K. Hamilton. The latter was born in IMS, in 
Peters township, Washington county, and received 
a classical education. During his earlier years he 
followed the profession of school-teaching, and lie 
iug solely dependent upon his daily earnings for a 
livelihood, he was obliged to practice strict econ- 
omy. In 1846 James R. Hamilton was married 
to Miss Patience Morrison, a native of this county, 
and having managed to save a small amount of his 
salary, the young man bought a little farm in Not- 
tingham township, this county, upon which he and 
his bride began their wedded life. They were 
poor in worldly goods, but rich in the possession 
of health and love. Fortune soon began to smile 
on the brave young couple, who met her frowns 
with such cheery faces, and as years passed on 
children came to brighten the little home as fol- 
lows: Patience B. (Mrs. Barkley), William H. L., 
Charles James Reed, John H G., Joseph G. P., 
Elizabeth Ann, Margaret Elnora and Mary Jane. 
Of these the three latter are deceased. At the 
time of his death, James R. Hamilton owned 300 
acres of land. 

James H. and Patience B. (Hamilton) Barkley 
have had five children, namely: Reed, Lee (de- 
ceased), Earl, Mary and Ralph. After their mar- 
riage Mr. and Mrs. Barkley settled on the home 
place, where they have since resided, and upon which 
he raises a variety of good stock. Politically he 
is a firm believer in the principles advanced by the 
Republican party, and in religion he and his 
familv are all members of the Methodist Church. 



JAMES H. BAHKLEY, a well-known stock 
raiser of Nottingham township, is a native of 
i the same. His father, James N. Barkley, 
was born in 1814, in this county, and when yet 
a liov learned tire shoemaker's trade, which he fol- 
lowed for one year, then bought the home farm, 
containing fifty-seven acres in Nottingham town 
ship. On October 25, 1837. he was united in 
marriage with Sarah Caster, who was born in L816, 
in Allegheny county, Penn., and their children were 
bom as follows: Robert, James, Thomas, Frank, 



PATRICK RODGERS. Prominent among 
' the most respected and the wealthiest citizens 
of Donegal township is found this well- 
known retired agriculturist. 
He is a son of Francis Rodgers, a native 
of County Donegal, Ireland, who when a young 
man came to America, and to Washington county, 
Penn., making a settlement in Donegal township, 
about one mile northwest of where is now Coon 
Island postoffice, and where Franklin Rodgers. his 
grandson, is at present living. Here he hewed for 
himself a home out of the unbroken primeval 
forest, and naturally then began to look around 
him for a suitable helpmate. Her he was fort 




at^yuoA ULscvZajesi^ 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



757 



unate to find in the person of Elizabeth Hupp, a 
member of one of the oldest families of the county 
and first settlers of Donegal township. To their 
marriage were born children as follows: John, 
who was a farmer in Washington county, and died 
at the age of forty-five years; Patrick, the subject 
of this memoir; Rosanna, wife of Joseph Cox; 
Nancy, wife of Samuel Cox; Isabel, married to 
Jacob Stoolfire; Margaret, wife of Thomas Davis; 
Mary, married to George Liuville; Sarah, wife of 
Isaac Deeds; and Elizabeth, wife of Thomas Davis, 
all now deceased except Patrick. The parents died 
on the old home farm, the father in 1829, and the 
mother in 18 — . When Francis Rodgers came to 
America he was but a poor boy, and his success in 
life was due to the characteristic thrift, energy and 
good management of himself and his faithful wife. 
Iu his political life Mr. Rodgers was a lifelong 
Democrat, a useful, reliable man iu his party. 

Patrick Rodgers was born in February, 1808, in 
Donegal township, this county, where, on his father's 
farm, he was well trained to the manifold duties 
pertaining to agricultural pursuits, while his edu- 
cation was secured at the subscription schools of 
his day. At the early age of sixteen the care of a 
large farm fell on him, thus putting an end to his 
opportunities of attending school any longer; but 
the manner in which his extensive and trying 
duties were performed gave evidence of ideas far 
beyond his years, and promises of a brilliant 
future before him in his state of life. 

Mr. Rodgers has been twice married, first time 
to Harriet, a daughter of Jerry Linville, of Done- 
gal township, to which union there were born chil- 
dren as follows: Johnson, who died at the age of 
twenty-eight years, and Franklin, a farmer iu Don- 
egal township. The mother of these children dying 
in 1846, Mr. Rodgers afterward married Jane, 
daughter of Robert and Eleanor (Mitchell) Me- 
haft'ey, of Donegal township, and she bore him 
the following named children: Elizabeth, now the 
wife of J. O. Scott, of Washington, Penn. ; Mary, 
at home with her parents, and Emma, now the 
wife of Avery Counselman, of Brooke county, W. 
Va. After his first marriage Mr. Rodgers con- 
tinued on the home farm, engaged in general 
agriculture and stock raising, until 1870, when he 
removed to the old Cracraft farm, situated near 
Dunsfort, in Donegal township, on Buffalo creek, 
where he has since resided, now several years 
retired, the farm being operated by others. This 
property he had purchased some years before. In 
his political affiliations Mr. Rodgers is a stanch 
Republican, formerly a Whig, and has held nu- 
merous township offices pressed upon him by appre- 
ciative friends. In religious sentiment he is a 
member of and liberal contributor toward the 
Dutch Fork Disciple Church. 




„ OBERT M. PATTERSON is a prominent 
citizen of Cross Creek township, and a son 
of Samuel, whose father was Gen. Thomas 
Patterson. Thomas Patterson was of Irish 
descent, his grandfather having been born 
in Ireland in 1708, and immigrating to America in 
1728, settled in Pennsylvania, where his son Will- 
iam was born in 1733. William was first married 
to Rosanna Scott, and reared a family of five chil- 
dren, among whom was Thomas. His first wife 
died in 1769, and iu April of the following year 
William was married to Elizabeth Brown, who 
bore him ten children. 

Gen. Thomas Patterson, the grandfather of our 
subject, was born October 1, 1764, in Lancaster 
county, Penn., aud came to Washington county 
with his parents, at the age of fifteen years. In 
1795 he was united iu marriage with Elizabeth 
Finley, of Westmoreland county, Penn. Of the 
twelve children born to their union the following 
lived to an adult age: William, James, Samuel, 
Mary, John, Thomas, Finley, Elizabeth, Moses 
and Rosanna. Gen. Patterson was a wealthy ag- 
riculturist, and actively interested in politics, hav- 
ing represented Washington county in the United 
States Congress for several years. He passed 
away November 17, 1841. 

Samuel Patterson was born March 27, 1800, in 
what is now known as the " Mill Property " in Cross 
Creek township, this county. He was reared on 
the home farm, and, when a young man, took 
charge of the mill for a few years. In 1825 he came 
to the place now occupied by Robert M. Patterson, 
and passed the rest of his life in agricultural pur- 
suits, making a specialty of raising fine-wooled 
sheep. He was married to Miss Anna McClave, 
daughter of the late Stewart McClave, who emi- 
grated from Ireland at an early day and settled in 
the northern part of Jefferson county, Ohio, where 
his descendants are yet living. Samuel and Anna 
(McClave) Patterson were the parents of the follow- 
ing children: Thomas, Lydia, Eliza, Stewart, Rob- 
ert M., Eleanor, Mary A., Harriet, Julia, Emily, 
Franklin (the latter three being deceased in in- 
fancy), Rosanna, Silas C. and Adeline (deceased at 
the age of nine years). 

Robert M. Patterson was born June 19, 1829, 
in the house where he is now living, which was 
erected by his great-grandfather in 1794. It is a 
stone structure with massive walls, two and a half 
feet through; the interior being divided by board 
partitions into several rooms which are finished in 
the best manner known to the workmen of those 
days. In this house Robert M. Patterson grew to 
manhood, obtaining his knowledge of farming from 
the instruction of his father. On October 15, 
1868, he was united in marriage with Miss Lydia Ann 
McClave, daughter of Samuel McClave. She has 



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nn enterprising loyal citizen He bae been a 
Bepubliea the organization <>f that p 

pi 01 to which be was a Whig and » strong <mti 
shivery man, a "conductoi on the underground 
railroad," bating frequently aided in securing tbe 
i- oape 'if bound boated to the fi i 

i' In. 



*T-\ ECHAED BAWL1S I HOM . ■ ; 
\^>/ b citizen o( Moi i 

\ nomas, oati re 

I of Wales, born in tbe 'eai 1800 .wan 

sea, in Glamorganshire John Thou 
fathei died when b ut a small bo - . and bi i 

widowed mother, inspired by bet 

iible cbaoce, immigrated to 
America In L819 Landing at Philadelphia, tbey 
i.i to Indiana county, Penn , 
ted, and the support of tbe mother f'-n 
upon thi Jobs tb< fathei of 

ject, bad learned the trade of a weaver in bis 

"il in id. 
if rt, and was enabled 

to make it pay bim wll. At h. 
copied I. time in obtaining an education 

and in fitting bimsel f for ' 

..I l v I-, prepare himself foi I 
/lit scbool at 
among rs, at Mo Va. 

II. :n prea* I, be 'I' 

If tbe i lif" Among tbe 

different plaei rbieh he preached were '■'' 

If'-r r. lebem Buff ( !i eek and othei 

places in that section OnOctobei 2't 1824 

-Mr. 'I ■: I !' Ightei 'if 

William Roberts, fho va a native of Wales, and 
althy merchant and prominent man of Cam 
bria county, Peon I Pot a short time tbi 
Indiana count] , where Mi I 
Later they removed to Payette county, near 
and after vard to Tori i • 
mi Ireland Here he rema 

when bo removed to Mohonj 
W< iia. 

To tbe anion of John Thomas and Jane Bob 
> i" children were born as follows William B 
Decembei I l, 1825 Elizabi th Oetobei 9, 
i h Jam Mi rob "> I 9 ''■> John P , January I";, 
! James Estep 11, 1884; 

fa I I i -.•: i ii.ii rii I Eliza October 

10, I8.';'.t; Am.... A Jodson, June 29, 

tlrach and Martha December 7, 1843 

I i ., wife 'J James Vand ' 

if', nun, Pens ; John I' and William I:, lire in 

ana county, ;i "'i are prominent coal opei 
AnnuA Jodson Thi I March 12, 1843; J 

I as a memhei <>f tbe 'I velftb Begiment, I' V 
I 'luring tbe late war, and died in tl 



i . ' ii wrist, ..,,f<- ',f William Met 

linn. '■'■li <">'• 

Martha were twins; Hhadri 
gardi mai 

i ied to Boyd I .in"! of 

i , Elizabeth died Jose 

II,. .'.rn Jflfi 

I I , I ■ : i . . I I ' ' ' 

| i .-,1 educa 

Hon, and made bis borne with bi ■ until be 

a in- left i, '.me to 
battle with tbe world • rn account 

" with 

J (II, 'I I,'. I ■.: ■ 

made bis home vith Lemuel N John, of Morion 
galia eonnty, W. Va . , when be returned I 

n tbe erection of a house foi I 
and took a piece ol uncleared land l>">K in M 

tnty, neat '- 

A fl'-r .i few 

I 
I be was 
an "i 

im<i a family every comfort bis mod* 

would allow i 

On June 6, If 69 B 
l: 'I bomas married Snub Hi. 
31, 1849, a da 

B Blachly. i there b born 

! Whitfield, born leptembet 

VI, and Mabel G I 

I , Mi Thorn 
farm* 

farm and tbe nniforn grade of bis stoeh 

attest I be formei 

but ■ " Probib mem 

' lumberland Pi ' 

West I P 

ii,.- Upper Ten Mile Pi Pi i 

perity. 



J 



ffOHN H. HILL 

ville •' '•'■ 

Octobi 
tin- borne farm His 
of tbe Emei 

!' . 'of 

which hi 
•A tbeit d< 

tbeii log cabin bona 

i 
ivere a ami rot 

skirm copper i 

An Indian lay in ambn "■ r 

tain spring, and took '■■"■ry opp a 



760 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



the unsuspecting pioneer who chanced to come 
near, but "he was finally killed. Of the children in 
this family little is known, but one son was born 
while the parents were crossing the ocean to 
America. This son grew to manhood, married 
and settled on the home farm in West Bethlehem 
township, and reared a family of children, three of 
whom were Joseph, John and William. The father 
was a Federalist in politics, and in religion was a 
member of the Baptist Church. 

John Hill (grandfather of subject) was born 
November 10, 1785, in West Bethlehem township, 
Washington Co., Penu., and passed his youth 
on the home farm. He was united in marriage 
with Nancy Sargeaut, who was born December 25, 
L789, and they had four children, namely: Jane, 
Sarah (Mrs. Joseph Grable), William and James 
S. Mr. Hill was a Whig in politics. In religions 
connection he was a member of the Baptist Church, 
and one of the founders of that Society in Wash- 
ington county. 

James S. Hill was born June 13, 1811 , on the 
home farm in West Bethlehem township, this 
county, where he received his early education. On 
July 24, 1834, he was united in marriage with 
Elizabeth Yohe, of German descent, and the fol- 
lowing children were born to their union: Nancy 
(Mrs. Solomon Addleman), John H. , Thomas T. 
and William H. Politically Mr. Hill was formerly 
a Whig, and since the formation of the Repub- 
lican party has been actively connected with it. 

John H. Hill passed his early years on the home 
farm, and received a common-school education. 
On June 16, 1859, he was married to Elizabeth 
\\ ygandt, of Carroll township, this county, and 
they have had four children, namely: Frank (mar- 
ried to Artie Enlow), Ella J. (Mrs. Jacob Shoe- 
maker!, Nannie (deceased wife of E. Shivers, died 
May 14, 1890), and_ Albert. G. Mrs. Elizabeth Hill 
died August 31, 1875, and on January 0, 1870, 
Mr. Hill was married to Sarah McElwee.dauwhter 
of John McElwee, whose father, Samuel McElwee, 
was born November 25. 1791, in Lancaster county, 
Penn., and on January 10, 1811, was united in 
marriage with Ruth Ann Edwards, who was born 
January 8, 1793, and she bore him children as 
follows: John. Samuel and Lavina (Mrs. Robert 
Simmons). Mr. McElwee was a Methodist Episco- 
pal minister, and traveled on the Philadelphia 
Conference, following his calling throughout life. 
In political opinion he was a Whig. 

John McElwee passed his early youth in Chester 
county, Penn., and when a young man came to 
^ ashington county, where he drove stage on the 
National pike until the Hemptield (now theB. & O.) 
B It., was established, when he served as a rail- 
road agent until 1879. On February 28, 1840, 
he was married to Susan, daughter of Walter No- 
ble, of Bradford county, Penn., and the young 



people made a permanent home in Claysville, this 
county. Their children are Sarah (Mrs. John H. 
Hill), Ruth A. (deceased) and Celia J. (deceased). 
Mr. McElwee was formerly a Whig, and after the 
organization of the party became a Republican. 
He was an active and enterprising citizen. He 
and his family were members of the M. E. Church. 
Mr. McElwee* died January 29, 18S0, and was fol- 
lowed by his wife November 3, l^ s t. 

In March, 1862, Mr. Hill enlisted in Company 
B, Twenty second Pennsylvania Cavalry, known 
as the ''Ringgold Cavalry." He was sent to the army 
of the Potomac, and appointed first clerk to Gen. 
Emery, of the regular army. He was afterward ap- 
pointed chief clerk in the muster office, which posi- 
tion he tilled until the close of the war. After his 
return home, Mr. Hill located in Valley Inn, then 
went to Kammerer, thence to Monongahela City, 
where he remained seven years, during which 
time he was elected high const able over three other 
aspirants for that office, receiving all the votes 
cast except thirty-sis. Afterward he was engaged 
in the general commission business at Wheeling, 
W. Va. In 1884 he came to his present home in 
Claysville, Washington county, and engaged in 
the grocery business. In 1889, he was appointed 
postmaster at Claysville, and abandoned the gro- 
cery. Mr. Hill is a charter member of Patterson 
Jobes Post, G. A. R., at Claysville, and is now 
serving his third term as post commander. He 
has been a member of the I. O. O. F. for twenty 
three years, and is now D. D. G. P. of Washing- 
ton county. He was also a charter memher of the 
A. O. TJ. W. of Monongahela City, Penn., and is 
now a member of the Grand Encampment of 
Pennsylvania, also a representative to the Grand 
Encampment of the I. O. O. F. and the G. A. R. 




ILLIAM SNODGRASS WHITE, retired 

agriculturist, is one of the highly respected 
citizens of Washington county. His 
grandfather, William White, came at an 
early date to this county, and was mar- 
ried here. He died in 1822, in Canonsburg, and 
hi6 wife followed him in 1827. They had three 
children: one son, John, and two daughters. 

John White, father of our subject, grew to man- 
hood in Canonsburg, and after attending the 
elementary schools of his native town, entered 
Jefferson College, where he graduated in 1804. 
He next began studying law at Steubenville, where 
he was admitted to the bar. Later he returned to 
Washington county, where he married Agnes Park, 
daughter of John Park, of Cecil township; he took 
up his residence in Washington, and acted as 
prothonotary one year. Abandoning the law about 
this time, he commenced the study of medicine at 




4cs$fc& 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



763 



Thompsoaville, Peters township, under the tuition 
of Dr. Robert Thompson. He resided in Cecil 
township, and taught school while he studied 
medicine. After taking his diploma, he commenced 
the practice of his new profession, and in Novem- 
ber, 1815, located about one and one-half miles east 
of Hickory, where he practiced. In the following 
April he moved to Hickory, where he continued to 
follow his profession up to the time of his death, 
which occurred in July, 1853, he beine; then sixty- 
seven years of age. His wife followed him to the 
grave August 19, 1866, in her seventy-seventh 
sear. In religion they were Presbyterians, and in 
politics he was a Whig. 

William Snodgrass White was born December 
12, 1812, in Cecil township, Washington county, 
and was three years old when his parents moved 
to Hickory. He received his education in the 
common schools and an academy. From 1835 to 
1841 he conducted a general store in Hickory, ami 
then moved on a farm on which he remained until 
the spring of 1872, at which time he came to 
Canonsburg. On March 31, 1S39, he married Miss 
Jane, daughter of Archibald Stewart, of Chartiers 
township, and of this union were born the follow- 
ing children: John Stewart (who died in April, 
1880; he had served in the war of the Rebellion), 
Agnes Ann (widow of John M. Miller, who died in 
May, 1888), Margaret Jane (Mrs. R. H. Black, 
of Canonsburg), W. Vance (of Canonsburg), 
Rebecca Jane (who died in 1845), Archibald Park 
(who died April 19, 1859, at the age of twelve 
years), Jenette (living with her father), Howard 
(in Ohio) and Matilda K. D. (living at home). 
Mrs. White died at Canonsburg. August 21, 1N.S1, 
at the age of sixty years. In 1856 Mr. White was 
a member of the old Know-Nothing party, but 
since the formation of the Republican party he 
enrolled under their banner. He has frequently 
declined to accept positions of honor and trust. 
The position of associate judge was offered him, 
but even that he found it necessary for various 
causes to refuse. For forty years he has been a 
consistent member of the Presbyterian Church. 
His farm, containing 300 acres, lies about half a 
mile north of Hickory, and in addition he has 
ninety acres on which there is a coal mine, located 
near Hickory. Mr. White has retired from active 
life, and his home is cared for by his dutiful and 
affectionate daughters. Both his paternal and 
maternal ancestors were of Scotch-Presbyterian 
descent, from the North of Ireland. 



ILLIAM M. HUTCHISON, a prominent 
citizen of West Finley township, is a son 
of Thomas, whose father, James Hutch- 
ison, emigrated from Scotland in 1785, 
and settled in Washington county, Peun., 
on a portion of the farm now owned by William 




M. Hutchison. He erected a home in the wilder- 
ness, but was obliged to leave it, as the Indians 
were hostile and very numerous. Five years later 
he returned to his pioneer home, bringing with him 
a bride, Mrs. Elizabeth Scott, nee Miss Elizabeth 
Law. They began married life on the farm where 
they passed their remaining days. The following 
children were born to them: Matthew, born July 
5, 1792; Margaret, born August 5, 1794; Eliza- 
beth, born October 3, 1796; Thomas, born Janu- 
ary 28, 1799; Catherine, born June 27, 180], and 
Nancy, born July 20, 1803. Of these children. 
Margaret, Thomas and Nancy lived to be over four 
score years of age. 

Thomas Hutchison passed his earlier years on 
his father's farm in East Finley township, Wash- 
ington Co., Penu., and assisted in the agricultural 
duties. In the year 1824 he was united in mar- 
riage with Elizabeth McClelland, after which 
event he bought out the heirs of the home place, 
and settled upon it. To the above union were born 
children as follows; .lane, born November 20, 
1825; James, born June 7, L828; William M., 
born December 17, 1830; Margaret L., born May 
19, 1836; Mary E., born April 30. 1840; and Cath- 
erine, born April 2, is 13. The mother of these 
children died March 30, 1^41, and Mr. Hutchison 
remained single for three years, caring for his fam- 
ily as best he could. Iu the year 1847, he was 
married to Isabella McMillian. In 1875 Mr. and 
Mrs. Hutchison moved to Independence township, 
this county, where lie died November 24, 18S4; 
his widow is still residing on the place. Mr. 
Hutchison was an elder in the U. P. Church at Dog- 
wood Grove for over forty years. 

William M. Hutchison was born on a part of the 
farm in East Finley township, Washington Co., 
Penn. He still resides on part of the farm in West 
Finley township and passed his youth at home. 
On March 26, 1857, he was united iu marriage with 
Miss Sarah G. Gilniore. and began married life in 
his present home. They have had four children: 
John G., born February 17, 1858, an attorney at 
Emporia, Kans., who married Lelia A. McKee, 
December 11, 18S4, to whom a son, Curtis McKee, 
was born November 12, 1890; Thomas A., born 
September 9, 1859, married Zillah E. Giles, Sep- 
tember 27, 1888, to whom two sons were born — 
William Henry, September 12, 1889, and Giles 
Virgil, September 14, 1891; James A., born De- 
cember 6, 1861, married Ada V. Sutherland, to 
whom one son, Harry Sutherland, was born June 
30, 1892, and Eva May Hutchison, born Septem I ler 
8, 1864. Mrs. Sarah (Gilmore) Hutchison died 
March 14, 1890. Mr. Hutchison started in life 
with no financial assistance, and the additional dis- 
advantage of poor health. But his strong will and 
invincible determination overcame even these for- 
midable obstacles. He now has a good farm of 125 



\ 



764 



ir.l.s7//.\(,/'OA cot \ I ) . 



aores, apoD whioli are oomfortable dwellings, and 
he has given to all of his ohildren 1 1 mt invaluable 
inheritance a good eduoation. lie is ;i member 
of the United Presbyterian Church at Glaysville, 
tin . • . • 1 1 1 1 1 \ ; lii-> son John is an elder <>f a United 
Presbyterian Church in Kansas, and another son, 
James, is an elder of the same ohuroh in Dogwood 
Grove, East ETinley township, this oounty. In 
politics, Mr. Butch ison was Formerly a W 1 1 i ^ . and 
since the organisation ol the party, lias been a 
Republican, tie has held Be vera] important town 
ship offices, and is highly esteemed by all who 
have tln> pleasure of his acquaintance. 



JOHN M". SON 1 A I.N. one of the well to do 
and substantial oitizens of East Einley town 
ship, was born in Cross Creek township, 
April '.'7. 1841, a sou of John and Eleanor 
(Sprowls) Ealy, both Datives of the Bame township. 
John Ealy, Ins paternal grandfather, was a aative 
of Schuylkill oounty, Penn., where be married and 
reared a family of ohildren, some of whom and his 
wife he brought with him when he moved to 
Washington oounty. He settled here, near where 
i- now Easl Finley postoffioe, not far from the 
headwaters of Wheeling oreek, in East Einley 
township, and here died, as did also his wife. 
Their oldest son, George, was born in 177:!. in 
jrlkill oouuty, Penn., and name to Washing 
■ i : 1 1 1 _\ wuh his parents, as above related. His 
boyhood days were passed upon his father's farm 
and in attending, during a tow months in winter 
time, the subscription schools of his distriot; bul 
perhaps the most lasting of his lessons worn those 
of praotioal experience in iudustry, economy and 
perse veranoe, which have all along been marked 
traits in the character of the Ealy family in Wash 
ington oounty. George Ealy was a farmer all liis 
He was married to Christina Ealy, who was 
born in L 780, and to this union worn born the follow 
ing named ohildren; John, Polly, Henry, George, 
Michael, Martin, Man and Christina, of whom l>nt 
two survive, viz.: Michael, In iugin Highlaud oounty, 
Ohio, and Christina (widow of Silas Sprowls), in 
Bast Finlej township, this oounty. The father of 
those ohildren died Juno 10, I860, the mother ha\ 
i 1 1 i_r passed away in IS 10 

John Ealy, father of subject, was born in I 
Finley township, in 1803, and at the sohools of the 
neighborhood seoured a Bomewhat limited eduoa- 
tion, the better part of his time being oooupied in 
work ou liis father's farm In ISol he was mar- 
ried to Eleanor, daughter of John sprowls. of 
East ETiuley township, and she bore him ohildren 
as follows: Nancy. Jane, John \ I ewis, David, 
George W. and Silas, all of whom attained adult 
age, but there are only two now living: John N. 



and George W. The father was called from earth 

November l, 1857, the mother September 0, 1886 

John N. Ealy reoeived a substantia] common- 

Bohool eduoation, learned agriculture of his father, 

at w hose death he came into possession of I lie home 

place, and has since resided there, engaged in 
genera] agrioulture, including the breeding of 

blooded Btook, The farm is situated about half a 

mile south of Baal ETinley postoffioe, and is highly 
improved. Mr. Ealy is a member of the United 
Brethren Churob, of which he has served as 
trustee; in politics he is a lifelong Republican 

and one of the advisers and counsellors of his 
partv. He has never married. 

George W. Ealy, the other surviving son of 
John Ealy, was born July B, 1847, in Cross Creek 
township, this county, and received a good com 
nioii school education. He came to East l'mle\ 
township when young, learned farming under Ins 
father's preceptorahip, and his entire life has been 
devoted to agricultural pursuits. On Deoember 
17, 1872, he was married to L. V. Carroll, daugh 
tor of William and Elisabeth (Seeman) Carroll, of 
[rish ancestry, and the ohildren of this union are 
Mary E., born October 26, L878; William II.. 
loll, born August :!, 1876, and John Hamilton, 
horn August I 1. INSO. all living at home with 
their parents, Mr. and Mrs George W. Ealy are 
members of the United Brethren Church at Fair 
mount, and in politics he is a stanch Kepuhliean. 



D\\ IP si'MNV. The family, of which the 
subject of this memoir is a prominent mom 
her, have long been residents of Pennsyl- 
vania, Isaac Sumny, father of David, tirst 
saw the light July 5, 1776, the da} after the old 

Libert} Bell had proclaimed the birth of our infant 
nation. He was horn in Westmoreland county, 
Penn., and in 1708 was united in marriage with 
Mary Turney (who was also horn in 1776), 
lime children were horn to their union, of whom 
three sons are J el Living. The father followed the 
pollers' trade all his life. 

David Sumny, the fifth son of Isaac and x 
(Turnej ) Sumny, was horn June 6, 1808, in \\ est 
moreland county, Penn., and learned the potters' 
trade of Ids father, following thai business for 
thirty years, In 1880 he plighted vows at the 
marriage altar with Nancy Hand, a native of this 
countv . w ho was horn in L808. Eleven children 
have blessed this union, all of whom are living m 
their native State, the family home circle having 
never yel been broken by the touch of the Silent 
Messenger. The children are as follows: W tlliamsou, 
JuliaA, (wife of Isaao Wolf), Maria (Mrs 3 G 

■ b.th (Mrs Devre), Mrs. Mary Young, John 
I served three years in the war. and returned 
home uninjured'), Pavid H. (in the service three- 



WASHINGTON COl ^ 1 1 



785 



years, having < -mcm | mm I any injury), [saao, Daniel, 
Benjamin I'', and Nanoy fsabelle (Mrs. Gilmore). 

These ohildren are all married, and, with but 

exception, are living in Washington oountj The 
sons are farmers, and are all engaged in thai vooa 
linn in connection with the various trades whioh 
they have mastered. Some years ago the rather 

abandi d his trade and bought a mail (arm In 

Nottingham township, this oounty, consisting of 
forty acres, whioh is kepi in an exoellenl Btate of 
cultivation. II" has always been a worker in the 
Democratic party, having oasi a vote for Gen. 
Jackson, 1 1 > - lias Berved the township as school 
director. Mr. Sumny and bis entire family, with a 
few exceptions, are members * ■ f the Presbyterian 
( Ihuroh. 

Williamson Sumny, boh of David and Nanoj 
(Hand) Sumny, was born April 29, 1827, on the 
old plaoe in this county, there reoeiving his early 
education. On April 16, 1850, be aeleoted, as a 
life partner, Miss Sarah Swiokard, also a native 
of this oounty, and they have had five children, 
two of whom are yei Living, namely: John S., who 
mail icd Melissa Sprowls, of this oounty, and Ann 
Eliza, wife of William Dusk, residing in this ooun 
ty, Mr. Sumny lias followed the oarpenter's trade 
Binoe 1845, also beings millwright, and owns twenty 

acres of land in this county. lie lias tilled various 

offloes in Nottingham township, and in Churoh re 

latum is connected with the .Methodist dcnoliiina 
t ion. Two of his brothers were soldiers in I he war 
of i he Rebellion: David and John 'I'. They enlisted 
In Company G, One Hundred and Fortieth Reg- 

i t P. V. I., partioipal ing in the battle of Gettys 

burg and all other engagements under Gen. Hancook 
They l >« >t ) ■ remai I until the close of the war, 

when, John's health failing, he returned home, and 

afterward went West, becoming a pioneer settler 

On September 28, L892, a reunion of tl leven 

ohildren, husbands and wives, was held at the old 
homestead, numbering twenty one. There were 
present thirty one grandohildren and twenty greal 
grandohildren, numbering seventy two present, or 

the whole connection, Micro , are living ninety two 

children, grandchildren and greal grandchildren. 



/ US. SARAH E. GILLESPIE, a represenl 

alive of one of the best and most pop 

iil.-n families of Washington comity, is a 
daughter of John Gillespie, whose father 
(also named John) emigrated with his fain 
from Ireland at an early dale, and settled in 

Gferson township, Washington Co., P i. The 

wife of this John Gillespie was formerly Mary 
Derriokson, and six children were born to their 
union, namely: William, Nathaniel, John, Mary, 
Sally and Elizabeth, all deceased excepting Eliza 

and John. 




John Gillespie (fathei Of BUbjeot) was horn, in 

the year 1810, in Washington county, ami pa ed 
his early life on the home farm in Jefferson town 
hip In L888 he was married to Nanoj Leggett, 
a native of Washington oounty, and they settled 
on 1 1 id homestead, where the following ohildren 

were bom to them A) ii i \ Ann (deceased), Saiah 

E. Wesley, and Hosier (deoeased), 

Saiah E, Gillespie (the SUbjeol proper of 

sketch) was born May I, 1842, in Jefferson town 

ship, this county, and assisted in the household 

duties of the home. A i the age of eighteen years 
b] ntered Pleasant Hill Seminary, whioh she 

attended fifteen months, and was then married to 

W J Gillespie, her second cousin ami son of \\ dl 

iam M. K. Gillespie. Their children wore James 

W., John, Charles 0., Nannie M., Minnie 0., V 

B . , Winifred and Ella Nora a.fter (heir mat 
riage Mr, and Mrs. Gillespie moved to his father's 

farm, ami tenderly cared for the old gentleman 
until Ins death. Mr. (iillespie then tOOU charge 
Of the farm, and DOUghl out the interest of the 
other heirs. In politics he was a stanch Repub 

lioan, bul being of b retiring disposition would 

accept no political office, preferring to devote his 

time to personal business lie was a comuslonl 

member of the Methodisl Episcopal Churoh of 
Bethel, Since Mr. Gillespie's death, his widow 

has Kept II bildren together, all of whom live on 

the old homestead. The farm consists of 284 
acres of highly cultivated and fertile land, well 
stooked w it h all neoes ary arl ides. 



4 



li ■ PS ELIZABETH GARDNER, an esti 

\i/| niahle and respecled lady of Jefferson 

■i I township, is a daughter of John and 
' grandchild of Caleb Merriman, who were 
natives of the Slate of Maryland, She 
was born October 8, 1881, in what, is now West 
Virginia, and assisted ber mother in the household 

duties ol the faun In hoi early youth. She was 

united In marriage March 15, L855,wil h David Gard 

ner, who was bom January 29, IS'-!7, in I he house 

where Mrs Gard net is now living. It was then 
Known as a public tavern, and was kepi b) 

David's father, wl aine from Maryland in 1814, 

an. I on l>'el.ruar\ 10, 1820, was married to Nancy 

I ). van, Bis father then erected the tavern for 

the aooomi lation of travelers going from Pitts 

burgh to Steubenville, and also engaged in farm 

ing, To David and Nancy (Donovan! (ianlnoi 

fourli •hihlren were horn, of whom lint ten 

lived to maturity, namely; Kli/.a, John, David, 

James, George M. , William, Rachel, Ann, Marian 

and Mary. Mr. ( ia rdner died Sepl endier 'J, 1845. 

David Gardner was horn on the home farm 

which came into his possession after the death 
of his father. He lived at home during his early 



im 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



manhood, and after his marriage to Miss Merriman 
continued to reside on the home place, where the 
following children were born: Laura A., born 
December 15, 1855; George S., born September 
25, 1857; Howard, born March 25,1860; Nancy 
K .born March 18, 1862; Henry, born July 11, 
1864; John, born September 2S," 1866; David P., 
born January 11, 1869; Chapline B., born Feb- 
ruary 12, L871; and Thomas P., born April 26, 
1873. Mr. Gardner was an industrious man, 
a good neighbor and an enterprising citizen. He 
was a member and liberal supporter of the Dis- 
ciple Church; in politics he was an ardent Demo- 
crat, and served many years as justice of the 
peace. He died May 15, 1878, and was buried in 
the cemetery at Eldersville. He gave all his 
children a good education, and at the time of his 
death owned a good farm of 184 acres. 



"T^X INGLAND. The Emerald Isle has con- 
Lvy ■ tributed largely to the intellect, and, conse- 
r\\ c l ueu tly, the social and material develop- 
JJ -^ ment, of America. Many of the brightest 
v minds and most successful business men 

which the United States has produced have 
emigrated from, or were descendants of natives 
of Ireland. Among the latter will be found the 
name of Ringland. The following is copied from 
a letter written by Gol. Thomas Ringland at Grand- 
view, 111., in 1860; 

As respects the Ringland branch, there is a tradition iu 
our family that our common ancestor came to Ireland 
from Hanover, in the army of King William III., in the 
latter pari <>r the seventeenth century, previous to the la 
mous battle of the Boyne, in which William was victo 
rious. After the war our ancestor settled iu the North of 
Ireland, and all of the name of Ringland that I ever knew 
spiling from that ancestor. My grandfather, whose name 
«;i- (ieorge, died when my father was an infant, and my 
grandmother again married another Hugh Ringland, and 
a Her the death of the latter she lived with my fattier un- 
til her death. My father, William Ringland, had one 
brother and one sister, both older than himself, and both 
living when we bit the country in 1795. My mother, 
Prudence (Bailie), was born of an old and respectable 
Scotch-Irish Presbyterian family. Both her parents were 
members of the Presbyterian Church, in the parish of 
Bellee, County Down, Ireland, and was herself a member 
Of the Presbyterian Church lor s. mil' years before her 
death, February <!. 1*24, at her home in Morris township, 
Washington Co., Penn., aged sixty-three years. 

William Ringland and wife, formerly Prudence 
Bailie, parents of the above-named Thomas Ring- 
land, with six children — George, Margaret, Mary, 
Thomas, William (first James and first Nancy 
having died in infancy in Ireland) and second 
•lames — emigrated from Ireland to America, and 
settled in the summer of 1795 in Morris township, 
Washington Co., Penn., on the middle fork of 
Ten-Mile creek. After their arrival in America 
they had children: second Nancy, Catharine, 



Robert (who died an infant), Eliza and Jane, in 
all thirteen children. William Ringland, Sr. , died 
September 9, 1827. 

George Ringland, first son of William, had four 
children: Thomas, Margaret, Rebecca and Ma- 
tilda. Thomas settled in Natchez, Miss., became 
wealthy, and died many years ago. Margaret 
married Harvey Bane, whose family are very much 
| scattered. Rebecca married William McKenna, a 
merchant of Hillsboro, Washington Co., Penn.; 
had one son, George R. ; lost sight of. Matilda 
married Cephas Bane, lived in Streator, 111., and 
both died there a few years ago, leaving a consid- 
erable family. 

Thomas Ringland, second son of William, mar- 
ried Anna McCollum in 1813; had six sons: Will- 
iam, John Newton, Samuel, George, Benjamin 
Anderson and Alexander Hamilton, and three 
daughters: Mary, Nancy and Anna. Of these 
William married Christian Bane in 1836; had four 
daughters: Elizabeth, Anna Eliza. Clarissa and 
Emily; died in 1843. Of these Elizabeth married 
Col. W. A. Lowe, colonel of. the Seventy-ninth Illi- 
nois Regiment, who died at Newman, 111., iu 
1869; had one son, George W. Lowe, who is single 
in Kansas, 111. Anna Eliza died in infancy. Clar- 
issa married Henry Chambers, of Coles county, 
111., has several children. Emily married Thomas 
Lawhead, and lives near Kansas, 111.; no children 
.^-living. Nancy Ringland, daughter of Thomas, 
died at Kansas, 111., in February, 1884. Dr. 
George Ringland, son of Thomas, married Mar- 
garet Rea, of Greene county, Penn. ; has had three 
sons and three daughters: John Thomas, William 
Franklin, Rea Crawford, Hannah, Mary and Mar- 
garet. Of these John Thomas died in his six- 
teenth year, at Kansas, 111.; William Franklin, a 
Presbyterian minister, has had charge at Pana, 
111., and Hastings, Neb.; is president of Hastings 
(Neb.) College; in 1881 married Anna C. McCorkle, 
at Crawfordsville, Iud. ; has three sons: Paul 
Franklin, George Lyle and William. Rea C. 
married Josephine Hampshire, of Decatur, 111., 
where he now lives; has had three sons, one living. 
Hannah married John Skinner, at Newman, 111., 
and died soon after. Mary and Margaret, single, 
live at home with their mother at Kansas, 111. Dr. 
George Ringland died at Kansas, 111., iu 1891. 

John Newton Ringland married Patty Clark; 
had one child, and both mother and child died; he 
afterward married Jane Weir, and had three sons 
and one daughter: E. Bernard, Adam Weir, 
Thomas and Annie Mary. Of these, Dr. E. B. 
Ringland has a water cure establishment at Ham- 
ilton, 111., op] losite Keokuk, Iowa; has been mar- 
ried three times; child by second wife living. Rev. 
Adam Weir Ringland, Presbyterian minister, has 
had charges at Dubuque, Iowa, Tuscola and Beu- 
lah, 111., and Duluth, Minn.; has recently been 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



767 



called to the presidency of a theological school in 
same State; was married to Lena Patten, of Mt. 
Pleasant, Iowa, in 1873; has young son and 
daughter living. Thomas married Anna Nixon, 
lives in Iowa and has some children. Annie Mary 
is unmarried, living at Hamilton, 111., with Dr. E. 
B. and his mother. John Newton Riugland died 
in Lee county, Iowa, in 1851. 

Samuel Ringland, son of Thomas, died unmar- 
ried at Dudley, 111., November 8, 1874. Benjamin 
Anderson Ringland, son of Thomas, is living at 
Oakland, 111. ; married Mary Smith, of Grandview, 
111., has four sous and four daughters. Alexander 
Hamilton Ringland, son of Thomas, is living 
in Chicago, 111., married to Ellen Wallace; have 
three children living: Allie, Ralph anil Bertha. 
AAnna Ringland, daughter of Thomas, married 
Stephen Post, of Washington county, Perm. ; hail 
two sons, one living, Hamilton B. Post, married to 
Miss Lindley, and they have two sons. Mary 
Ringland, daughter of Thomas, married Jacob 
Biaden in 1838; she died in 1840; had one son, 
James, and three daughters; Elizabeth Ann, 
Martha and Isabel. Of these, Elizabeth Ann died 
in infancy. Martha married a Mr. Bergen, and 
had two sons and one daughter, her husband hav- 
ing died, she married J. B. Weir, of Washington 
county, Penn. , in 1886, and they live in Washing- 
ton, Penn. Isabel married James S. Hewitt, 
of Dudley, 111. , has two sons and one daughter. 
Jacob Braden died at Dudley, 111., February 4, 
1893, aged eighty-one years. 

Col. Thomas Ringland, son of William, came to 
America with his father and family in 171)"), and 
settled in Morris township, Washington Co., 
Penn., where he continued to reside until 1857, 
when he moved to Grandview, Edgar Co., 111. 
During the war of 1812 the Colonel volunteered 
his services as a private' soldier, and was afterward 
promoted to major for gallant conduct, and re- 
ceived an honorable discharge. By a life of up- 
rightness the Colonel so endeared himself to the 
people of his adopted county, that in 1825 he was 
nominated and elected to a seat in the House of 
Representatives, and again in 1826 and 1827; and 
such was the fidelity and ability with which he 
discharged the duties of the office, that in 1828 he 
was elected to the Senate from the District then 
composed of the counties of Washington and 
Greene, and was re elected and served with the 
entire approbation of the people until 1834. As 
an evidence of the high appreciation of his worth 
and integrity, his brother senators elected him to 
the honorable and responsible position of Speaker 
of that body, the duties of which he discharged 
with a courtesy and impartiality unsurpassed. In 
politics Col. Ringland was all his life an earnest, 
unswerving Democrat. He sustained the pure 
patriot, gallant soldier and eminent statesman, 



Gen. Jackson, throughout his eventful administra- 
tion. During the struggle of that great and good 
man with the Bank of the United States, while 
others faltered and many yielded to the seductive 
influences of that corporation, Col. Ringland stood 
firm. He was a member of the Presbyterian 
Church for some years before his death, which oc 
curred January 7, 1869, at Grandview, 111., when 
he was aged eighty-six years. 

William Ringland, third son of William, in 
1826 married Mary Bane, of north fork of Teh- 
Mile creek, Washington county, Penn. Had four 
children: two sons — Isaac B. and Henry W. — and 
two daughters — Harriet and Mary V. All moved 
to Marshall county, Iowa, about 1S."i6. Of these 
children, Isaac B. married, in 1857, Mary A. 
Evans, of Marshall county, Iowa; had two sons 
and three daughters: William, Harvey. Emma, 
Mary Eva and Margaret. Of these William died 
in infancy. Harvey is at school in Minnesota, 
studying pharmacy. Emma married H. F. Will- 
son, in 1878, lives in Wayne, Neb. ; have had two 
children, one living, Homer. Mary Eva married 
C. E. Smith in 1881; live in Conectionville, Iowa; 
no children. Margaret married R. E. K. Mellor 
in 1.SS3; live in Wayne, Neb.; have four children 
— William, Mabel, Mary and Zoa. Henry W., 
second son of William and Mary (Bane), died un- 
married in Council Bluffs, Iowa, in 1867, aged 
thirty-five yearsjburied in cemetery at Boone, Iowa. 
Harriet L., first daughter of William and Mary 
(Bane), married Samuel Munnell in I860; had five 
children; four died in infancy, one living: Mary 
R. Munnell, who is attending school in Chicago, 
111. Harriet L. died in 1871, aged forty-one 
years. Mary V., second daughter of William and 
Mary (Bane), in 1859 married D. M. Moninger, a 
successful farmer and stock raiser of Marshall 
county, Iowa, where they now reside; had four 
sons and one daughter: William R., John H., 
Frank B., Harry W. , and Anna M. ; of these, 
William, in 1887, married Mary H. Kellogg, of 
Grinnell, Iowa; have one daughter, Margaret ; live 
in Marshall county, Iowa. John H. and Frank 
B. were drowned in the Iowa river near their home, 
in 1887. Anna M. , a handsome little girl, died 
at the home of her grandfather, John Moninger, 
in Washington county, Penn., in 1870, aged three 
years. Harry W. lives at home with his parents, 
unmarried. 

Maj. James Ringland, fourth son of William,^ 
was born in County Down, Ireland, in June, 1791, ^ 
came to this country with the family in the sum- 
mer "of 1795; June 26, 1828, married Sarah, 
daughter of James Stockdale, who also emigrated 
from Ireland about the same time. On being 
duly elected and returned, he was commissioned 
major of the " First Battalion of the Washington 
and Greene Vanguards '' (a regiment of volunteers 



768 



WASHINGTON COU\ FY. 



of the militia of the Commonwealth of Pennsyl- 
vania), by the Governor on August 3, following. 
for the term of seven years. Major Ringland 

joi I the Lower Ten Mile Presbyterian Church 

about 1830, of which he was a faithful member 
until his death, which occurred May 12, 1871, 
when he was aged eighty years. Sarah Ringland, 
wife of Major James, was horn near Zollarsville, 
Washington Co., Perm., in 1796; joined the Pres- 
byterian Church at Amity in L830, and died Octo- 
bei 31, 1878. 

William Ringland. son of James, left Washing- 
ton county in September, ISiiii, located in Marshall 
county, L>wa, for a number of years. Then set 
tied in Boone, Iowa, about 1866, where he now 
lives; owns a warehouse and lumber yard in Boone; 
was married to Miss Delia M. Swaine June 9, 
1870; have had eight children: one died in infancy ; 
•lames. Edmund Alleman, Guy Jay, Josiah Allen, 
Cady Stockdale, Annie Mary and Elsie Sarah, who 
are all at home with parents. George S. Ring- 
Ian I. son of James, went west in the fall of 1855; 
spon! about one year in southern Iowa; then set- 
led in Fort Dodge, Webster Co., Iowa, where he re 
mained until the commencement of the Civil war. 
In lSti'2 he assisted in organizing a volunteer 
cavalry company, which joined the Eleventh Penn- 
sylvania Cavalry Keginient under Col. Harlin, in 
which he served for three years in eastern Vir- 
ginia and North Carolina, during which service he 
was promoted to the captaincy of his company. 
After the close of the war, in 1865, he returned to 
Fort Dodge; about 1868 was married to Miss Anna 
A., daughter of Woolsey Wells, of Fort Dodge, 
for many years an attorney there; has one child. 
Jennie, now taking a course in Wellesloy (Mass.) 
College. Captain Ringland is now engaged in 
the manufacture of plaster of paris and in banking. 
Matliew B., son of James, unmarried, remained at 
the old home all his life; dint November 23, I SS 1 . 
Elizabeth J., only daughter of James, married II. 
H. Conger, in November, 1863; now lives adjoining 
her birthplace; has three children: George R. (who 
married Mies Emma Casy in September, 1890), H. 
Hershel and Omar ]). Of these Dr. George R. 
Conger is now located at Taylorstown. Washington 
i'o., Penn., in the practice of medicine. II. Her- 
shel and Omar D. live tit home with their parents. 
Josiah, youngest child of James, now owns and 
lives on the farm which his gran lfather. William 
Ringland, bought of William Clutter, August 25, 
1795, the same summer they came to America. 
lias Edwin and Eva Young living in the house 
with him; though unmarried, still has hope that 

Cupid may yet i ie his way, and tarry with 

him through bis remaining years. 

Margaret Ringland, first daughter of William, 
married William Ferguson, and had one son, 
Henry, who married Nancy Young, and had a large 



family; moved to Clark county. Ind. Nancy Ring- 
land, second daughter of William, married Moses 
Braddock, and removed to Hancock county, Ind., 
near Greenfield. Catherine Ringland, third daugh- 
ter of William, married James Andrew; moved to 
Morrow county, Ohio, where James Andrew died; 
the widow and children returned to Pennsylvania; 
they had seven children: George, Hindman, Thomas 
R., Eliza Ann, Prudence, .Mary and Sarah. Of 
these, George Andrew died before he became of 
age. Hindman married Ann Mintou in 1855, and 
had eight children: James E., Lee H, M. W., 

Bell (who died when a child), Inez P., Floret 

Annie M. and Osee B. Hindman Andrew died Feb 
ruary HI, 1884, near Lindley's Mills. Washington 
Co., Penn. Thomas Andrew went West about 
L855, .and married there; now lives in Spring Hill, 
Iowa; has three sous and two daughters living. 
Eliza Ann married Ira Andrew, and has one son and 
two daughters living. Eliza Ann Andrew died the 
day her brother Hindman lay a corpse. Mary and 
Sarah went West about 1857. Mary married Mr. 
Bataw, in Illinois; now live with a daughter in In- 
dianapolis, Ind. ; have two daughters living. Sarah 
died unmarried. Jane Ringland, fourth daughter 
of William, married John Bane about 1830; had 
.seven children: George, Mary, Thomas, Margaret, 
Addison, Ann and Nancy. Of these, George mar- 
ried twice and had a large family; names of wives 
and children not known. Thomas married Susan 
Collins, of Charleston, 111.; no children. Mary 
married Mr. Enlow, who died leaving two small 
children, son and daughter; she still lives, a widow. 
at Stockton, Coles Co., 111. Margaret married Mr. 
Nuby; had some family; she died some years ago. 
Anna married John McKinley; she is a widow with 
four children, two boys and two girls. Nancy 
married Mr. Ball. Addison married; name of 
wife unknown. Mary Ringland, fifth daughter of 
William; unmarried; lived with her brother James; 
died May 25, 1829. Elizabeth Ringland, sixth 
daughter of William; unmarried; quite handsome; 
died February 6, 1825, aged twentj four years. 



WILLIAM WHERRY. Among the public- 
spirited and successful citizens of Sum 
erset township, the gentleman whose name 
opens this biography takes a prominent 
position. He was born July '2. 1815, and 
is a son of John, and grandson of James and Sarah 
(McConel) Wherry. The grandparents were na- 
tives of Chester county. Penn.. and after their 
marriage settled on 400 acres of land in Washing- 
ton county, where a family of eleven children were 
reared. The grandfather died in March, 1807, on 
the home farm, and was followed to the grave by 
his widow in the same year. 

John Wherrv. the second child of James Wherry, 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



TtSU 



vas born in 1770, on the farm in Washington 
:ouuty, and attended the subscription schools of 
In- neighborhood. He followed farming and stock 
aising. and in early life was wedded to Elizabeth 
iVelch, who bore him the following named children : 
William, Mary, James, John, Eli, Stephen, Ellen, 
Elizabeth and' Margaret. Of this family, William 
md Mary are the only living members. The father 
vas a Whig, and, in religion, he and his wife were 
nembers of the Baptist Church, lie, lied in 1831, 
wing followed by his widow in 1866, in her 
eightieth year. 

William Wherry passed his early years on the 
lome farm, where his grandparents had also passe, I 
he greater part of their lives. He has always 
ived on the place of his birth, and having never 
narried, his maiden sister Mary has managed the 
Household affairs, and been a companion to him 
(ince the death of their mother. Mr. Wherry owns 
iOO acres of land, all in one farm, which is highly 
cultivated. Last year he shipped 10,000 pounds 
if wool, in which product he deals extensively. 
He is a Republican. 




RS. NANCY GILLESPIE, a cultured and 

highly-esteemed lady of Jefferson town 
ship, this county, was born* October 3, 
L815, near West Middletown, Hopewell 
township, Washington county. She is a 
daughter of Abraham Leggelt, whose father, Snt 
ton Leggett, was born in Maryland, and in early 
life was united in marriage with Hannah Green, a 
native of the same State, who bore him the following 
named children: Benjamin, John, Sutton, Jesse, 
Elijah, Ellen, Mrs. Pervard, Abraham and Nathan. 
In 1794 the family moved to Pennsylvania, locat- 
ing in Washington county, near West Middletown. 
Abraham Leggett was born in 1787, in Mary- 
land, ami was about seven years of age when his 
fat her moved to Pennsylvania. He was reared to 
agricultural lib-, and educated in the schools of 
the period. When a young man he married Miss 
Nancy Dempster, and six children were born to 
their union: Lemuel, Sutton, Jesse, Nancy, El- 
len, and an infant, unnamed. 

Nancy Leggett was born on the home farm near 
West Middletown, Penn., and grew to woman- 
hood, assisting in the household duties and attend 
iug school in the neighborhood. In L 838 she be 
came the wife of John Gillespie, and a few years 
later happy voices called her "mother," little feet, 
pattered through the house, for her home was 
brightened with four little ones, called by the fol- 
lowing names: Wesley A., Sarah Ellen, Mary 
Ann and Hester Ann. The two last named have 
been laid to rest, and on May 19, 1885, the hus- 
band ami father passed away, leaving his widow to 
the comfort of her two remaining children. Mr. 



and Mrs. Gillespie started in life together with lit- 
tle of this world's goods, but industry and pa 
tience have accomplished much. A beautiful 
home, surrounded b\ 200 acres of fertile land, 
gives ample evidence of the prosperity of the fam 
ily. Mr. Gillespie was a stanch member of (he 
Republican party. Mrs. Gillespie is a member of 

the Methodist Episcopal Church at Independence, 
this county. 



IiOSEPH HENDERSON, a worthy represents 
I tive of one of the oldest families of Wash 
t i ington county, and one of its best Known and 
^^ most highly respected citizens, was born 
June 3, 1N17, in Chartiers township, Wash 
ingtou Co., Penu., a son of William Henderson, a 
native of eastern Pennsylvania. 

William Henderson married a Miss Patterson, 
and had children as follows: Samuel, burn Janu 
an 29, 1784; John, born November 18, L785; 
William, born January 10, L788; Martha, born 
June :',it, L789; Hugh, bom April 2, L791; 

Thomas, born March 22, li'JIi; James, limn I )e 

cember L8, 1794; Nancy, bom in March, 1798, and 
Elizabeth, born August 28, L801. The mother of 
this family dying, Mr. Henderson married, for his 

second wife, Mrs, Elay (Seffrey) Kain, widow of 
Jacob Kain, by whom she had children as follows: 
Jacob, born in October, 17U7; Agnes, born August 
13, L799;John, bom May 31, 1801; Sarah, bom 
August 1, L803, and Mary, born June 22, 1805. 
To the marriage of William Henderson with Mrs. 
Elay Kain. there came a family of live children, 
viz.: Matthew, bom June 2b, 1810; Kalv, born 
May 31, 1812; David P., born November <J, 1M I; 
Joseph, bom June 3, 1817, and Jennie, born Jan 
nary 15, L822. In July, 1 S 12, the father was 
called from earth, and was interred in t he cemetery 
at North Church. Buffalo township. In politics 

he was an active Whig, and in religion a member 
of the Seceder Church. From the time of his 
coming to Washington county he wjis a resident of 
Chartiers township, where he successfully carried 
on farming and coopering. Mrs. Elay Henderson 
died in L865. 

Joseph Henderson, whose name opens this 
sketch, passed his early life in his native township, 
where he received his education. On October 12, 
1841, he was united in marriage with Rebecca, 
daughter of James Laird, by whom he had one 
son, James L.,a sketch of whom follows. This 
wife dying May 12, 1853, Mr. Henderson married 
in May, 1859, Anna B., daughter of James Stewart, 
of Chartiers township. Our subject is a member 
of the United Presbyterian Church at Washington, 
and since 1871 has been an elder and office-holder 
in the church at Cross Roads. He is now living 
retired in Washington. 



770 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



• I niES L. Henderson, son of Joseph and Re- 
becca (Laird) Henderson, is a native of Washing- 
ton county, born in Chartiera township, March 6, 
1S44. His boyhood was passed on the home 
place until he was seventeen years old, when he en 
listed in August, 1861, in Company B, First 
Virginia Cavalry, serving with distinction under 
Gens. Shields and Sheridan. When the regiment 
was mustered out he returned home, and entered 
Duff's Business College, from which he was gradu- 
ated with high honors. On December 15, 1866, 
he was married to S. Jennie, daughter of John and 
Sarah (Harsha) Shaw, and the children burn to this 
union are: Joseph B. , Sarah R., Frank T. , Janus 
L., and Earnest G. Mr. Henderson is extensively 
engaged in stock dealing and raising, and is one 
of the best known importers of sheep and cattle in 
his section"; he owns one of the finest herds of 
cattle ever introduced into the county, one which 
he has collected regardless of labor and expense. 
In his political predilections he has always sup- 
ported the Republican party, but close application 
to business has prevented his accepting political 
preferments. He has taken au active interest in 
educational matters, both in Chartiers and Canton 
townships, and is now serving his fourth term as 
school director. Mr. Henderson and his family 
are members of the United Presbyterian Church 
at Washington. 



d'|OHN GOURLEY, a retired agriculturist, 
■ having his residence in the borough of Clays- 
I ville, comes of stalwart Scotch-Irish ancestry, 
noted for their indomitable perseverance, 
sound judgment and characteristic probity. His 
grandfather, Robert Gourley, a native of the Em- 
erald Isle, at an early day came to the United 
States, where he married, and reared a family con- 
sisting of the following named children: Thomas, 
James, Robert, Mary I Mis. James Jones), Nancy 
(Mrs. Thomas Dunn) and Mrs. Duulap. 

Of these, Robert was born near Greensburg, 
Peum, in 1800, where and in Donegal township, 
this county, his boyhood was passed. He lived on 
a farm in the latter township, which property came 
to be known as the " Gourley homestead. " Here 
he was married to Margaret Roney, who bore him 
the following named nine children: Alexander, 
Susanna and Robert (all deceased), Ann Eliza, 
John, Thomas, Sarah J. (wife of Rev. N. L. 
Laferty), Catherine (Mrs. James Feather) and 
James. The father successfully carried on farm- 
ing operations in Donegal township) until 1859, in 
which year he moved to Warren county, 111., where 
he died, July 29, 1883, and the mother in Febru- 
ary, 1NS4. They were members of the Presbj 
terian Church, and in his political predilections 
Mr. Gourley was a wide awake Democrat. 



John Gourley, the subject proper of this bio- 
graphical sketch, was born January 17, 18^4. in 
Donegal township, Washington Co., Penu.. and 
there received his education as well as early lessons 
in farm work. At the age of eighteen years he 
went to Warren county, 111., where he followed 
farming until 1862, and then removed to Done- 
gal township, this county, and has here since re- 
sided. He lived on his farm until 1865, when he 
removed with his family to Claysville, where he 
has since resided, and where he owns one of the 
most handsome residences of the village. On 
March 13, I860, lie was married to Mary J., 
daughter of John Marshall, a member of one of 
the oldest families in Buffalo township, and the 
children by this union were Adele (wife of George 
M. Gray) and Mary (now deceased). The family 
are members and strong supporters of the Presby- 
terian Church at Claysville, and are much respect- 
ed and esteemed. Politically Mr. Gourley was a 
Democrat till 1880. since when he has voted the 
Prohibition ticket, and he is recognized as a pro- 
gressive, honorable and loyal citizen. 



THOMAS MILLER, a retired agriculturist 
ami one of the oldest and most highly re- 
spected citizens of Canonsburg. was born 
October 15, 1815, in Mt. Pleasant town- 
ship, this county. Andrew Miller, his father, 
came from Ireland to America in 1812, bringing 
his wife, his parents (Thomas and Sarah Miller I. 
and their children — Andrew. Thomas, Sarah, Mar- 
garet and Mary. These children all settled in 
Mt. Pleasant township, where many of their de- 
scendants are now living. Andrew Miller was mar- 
ried, in Ireland, to Sarah Steele, a sister of Rev. 
James Steele, who for many years was a Presby- 
terian minister at Strabane, Ireland, where his 
son, Frederic Steele, attorney at law, now lives. 
After his arrival in Mt. Pleasant township Andrew 
Miller commenced farming, an occupation he con- 
tinued many years, and then, some fort} 7 years 
ago, moved to Chartiers township, where he died 
in 1853. at the age of seventy years. After 
his death, his widow lived with her daughter in 
Mt. Pleasant township, dying there in 1856 at a 
very advanced age. Andrew Miller was a prom- 
inent Democrat in his day. and held various of- 
fices of trust in his township and county, such as 
director of the poor. He was a member of the old 
Associate Church. Of their marriage four chil- 
dren were bom. viz.: James (who was an attorney 
in Wooster, Ohio, and died in 1S44), Thomas (our 
subject), Andrew (who died in Allegheny county, 
Penn. ). and Jane (widow of Andrew Russell, re 
siding in Chartiers township, with her daughter 
Mrs. Homer Wilson). 

Thomas Miller received the rudiments of his 







r-atss^^. 





0-l^LM^ff <..'/£ ts£tA^~ 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



773 



education in au old log school-house on Chartiers 
creek, and his first day's attendance was indelibly 
fixed on his memory by his being an eye-witness 
to the singular freak of a snake climbing up the 
wall of the house. He had a thorough, practical 
training in all the departments of agriculture, which 
was his life vocation, and in 1875 retired from act- 
ive labor. . On May 17, 1843, Mr. Miller married 
Annie, daughter of David Reed, of Cecil township, 
Washington county, and the following named chil- 
dren were born of their union: Andrew S. (who 
served in the Union army in the defense of his 
country, and is now au attorney in Pittsburgh), 
David R. (a United Presbyterian minister in East 
Palestine, Ohio), J. Martin and John C. (both on 
the farm in Chartiers township), Almira (wife of 
Rev. W. T. McConnell, of Des Moines, Iowa), and 
Sarah Jane (Mrs. W. H. S. Ritchie, of West Point, 
Ky.). Mrs. Miller died in March, 1858, and No- 
vember 20, 18*50. our subject married Elizabeth, 
daughter of James Linn, who was born in South 
Strabane township, this county. No children were 
born to this union. In 1875 Mr. Miller built the 
elegant house in Canonsburg, into which he and 
his faithful wife moved the same year, and in which 
they now live, calmly awaiting the summons that 
shall call them from earth. They are lifelong 
members of the U. P. Church, in which he has 
been an elder for about forty-five years. Polit- 
ically Mr. Miller was originally a. Democrat, but 
left the ranks of that party on the slavery issue, 
and united with the old Whig party; he first voted 
for Martin Van Buren, then for William Henry 
Harrison. He was a delegate from Canonsburg at 
the first National Convention of the Republican 
party, held in Pittsburgh in 1856. In 1884, with 
a sense of duty to his fellow-men and to his God, 
he enlisted under the Prohibition banner. Al- 
though earnest and most conscientious in his polit- 
ical associations Mr. Miller has, nevertheless, con- 
sistently refused office. At the first Republican 
county convention he declined to become the nom- 
inee of his party for the State Legislature. He 
was a delegate to the Congressional Convention 
that nominated Hon. T. M. T. McKennan to fill 
the vacancy in Congress through the death of Hon. 
Joseph Lawrence, in 1842. Mr. Miller's old farm 
in Chartiers township, comprising 250 acres of 
highly improved land, is now owned and worked 
by his sons, J. Martin and John C. Miller. 

J. Martin Miller, son of Thomas Miller, was 
born November 27, 1848, on the farm above men- 
tioned. He grew to manhood under the parental 
roof, and was educated in the schools of Cnartiers 
township, then taking the freshman and sophomore 
years at Washington and Jefferson College. In 
1875 he was united in marriage with Mary B. 
Stewart, a native of St. Clairsville, Belmont Co., 
Ohio, and daughter of John Stewart, who was 



born in Pennsylvania, and when a young man 
moved to Belmont county, Ohio. In 1832 he was 
married to Ann Bell, a native of the same county, 
and they settled on a farm in Ohio, where their 
children were born and reared. He was rulino- 
elder for sixty years in the U. P. Church at St. 
Clairsville, Ohio. He died in February 1892, aged 
eighty-seven years, and the faithful wife was laid 
to rest beside him three week,s later, having passed 
through eighty years of life. The Stewart family 
are of Scotch origin, and trace their ancestry to 
Robert Bruce, of historic fame. They first settled 
in Pennsylvania, afterward moving to Ohio. 

After his marriage to Mary B. Stewart. Mr. 
Miller bought the old homestead, consisting of 150 
acres of land. He has since carried on general 
farming, including the raising of Holstein cattle 
and Delaine Merino sheep. Mr. and Mrs. Miller 
have had six children, viz.: Anna Bell, born No- 
vember 7, 1875, died at the age of eight years;. 
Stewart, born July 3, 1877; Lena Alice, born 
August 16, 1879; Karl Martin, born September 6, 
1882; Edna Bruce, born December 11, 1886, and 
Mary Bell, born June 29, 1892. J. Martin Miller 
is a Republican, and in religious connection he 
and his wife are members of the Chartiers U. P. 
Church, Rev. W. B. Smiley, pastor, of which he 
was elected ruling elder in 1886. 



land. 



J, AMES T. PATTERSON, a leading citizen of 
Burgettstown, was born April 9, 1851, a son 
J of John Patterson. His grandfather, James 
Patterson, was born in County Down, Ireland, 
receiving his early education in his native 
At the age of fourteen years he came with 
his parents to Washington county, Penn., and 
settled in Canton township, on the farm now owned 
by John McClay, erecting their cabin home in the 
wild new country. At the age of twenty-six years. 
James Patterson was married to Mary Miller, a 
native of Chartiers township, and after their mar- 
riage the young couple settled on the farm in Hope- 
well township, now owned by Lemon Patterson (a 
grandson). Politically, James Patterson was first 
a Federalist, then a Whig, and next au active 
worker with the Abolitionists. He was among the 
earliest members of the Seceder Church at North 
Buffalo, his parents being also members of that 
denomination. He was a member of and elder in the 
church for fifty years, holding that office at the 
time of the coalition of the Seceder and Union 
Churches. He was successful in business matters, 
having made his own way in the world. He died 
in 1868, in his ninety-second year, and was buried 
by the side of his wife in North Buffalo Cemetery. 
They were the parents of the following children: 
Alexander, Thomas, Margaret (Mrs. Samuel Leper), 
Elizabeth (wife of James Richmond), Jane (mar- 



774 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



ried to James Armstrong), James, David, Mary 
(Mrs. Taggart), John and Martha. 

John Patterson, son of James and Mary (Miller) 
Patterson, was born on the home farm in Hope- 
well township, this county, receiving his train- 
ing in a school which was held in the upper story 
of a log spring house. He was married in Feb- 
ruary, 1850, to Jane, daughter of Thomas McClel- 
lan, and they continued to reside on the old place 
until his death. John Patterson was a Whig and 
an Abolitionist, afterward becoming a Republican, 
being an active politician, and much interested in 
school matters, having served as director for years. 
He was formerly a member of the Seceder Church, 
and afterward united with the U. P. Church at 
North Buffalo, contributing liberally to the support 
of that denomination. Mrs. Patterson is yet living, 
making her home with her son Lemon. The re- 
mains of Mr. Patterson were interred in the ceme- 
tery at North Buffalo. 

James T. Patterson received a common-school 
education in Hopewell township, and afterward 
attended Pleasant Hill Academy. He then studied 
medicine, but other matters taking his attention his 
medical course was never completed. On Septem- 
ber 28, L876, he was united in marriage with Jen- 
nie E. Witherspoon, daughter of John Witherspoon 
of Smith township, and the following children 
have blessed their union: Lenora, Lizzie Myrtle, 
Jennie Estelle, James Witherspoon and Emma 
Margaret (twins, deceased at the age of rive 
months). After his marriage James T. Patterson 
settled on a farm in Hopewell township, remaining 
there six years. He opened an insurance office in 
Burgettstown, where he conducts lire and life insur- 
ance, and also deals in real estate. He and his 
family are members of the United Presbyterian 
Church, in which he has been a ruling elder for 
thirteen years. In politics he is a leading member 
of the Republican party, having tilled several town- 
ship and borough offices, and is actively interested 
in all political questions. He was appointed 
notary public by Gov. Beaver, holding that office 
four years, and reappointed by Gov. Robert E. Pat- 
tismi in 1 ^' ,: '>. 



I OHN PRESLEY PROUDFIT, an energetic 
young farmer of Smith township, is a great- 
fr grandson of David Proudfit, a native of Scot- 
^^ land, who came to America and located in 
York county, Penn., where his son, John, was born 
January 28, 1775. In 1802 John Proudrit came 
to Washington county, Penn., locating in Hanover 
township. On April 9, 1809, he was united in 
marriage with Elizabeth Lyle, a native of Cross 
Creek (then Hopewell) township, born March 24, 
1793, a daughter of John and Elizabeth (Hays) 
Lyle. Some time after their marriage John and 



Elizabeth (Lyle) Proudfit returned to York county, 
Penn., as the father of John was growing old and 
feeble and needed the care of his children. The 
young people remained on the home farm until the 
death of the father, which occurred in 1820, and 
then John and his family again moved to Washing- 
ton county, settling one mile west of Burgettstown, 
where he passed the remainder of hia life. The 
trips across the mountains were full of dangers 
and accompanied with many inconveniences. On 
one occasion Mr. and Mrs. Proudfit rode 300 
miles on horseback to visit relatives in York 
county, Penn., the wife carrying a young baby in 
her arms, and many hardships were endured on 
the journey. The following children were born to 
these pioneers: David (deceased September 19, 
1813), born August 13, 1810; John L. (deceased), 
born September 3, IN 12; James K. (deceased Feb- 
ruary 25, 181*')), born April 21, 1815; Eliza J. 
(Mrs. Arthur Campbell, of Smith township), born 
January 2, 1817; Agnes (deceased August 15, 
L824),born June 17, IS 19; Robert F„, born Decern 
ber 23, 1821; Cinderella (wife of Jacob Proudfit. re- 
Bides in Ashland county, Ohio), born September L6, 
1824; William, bom May 10, 1828; Andrew, born 
March 20, 1831; and Eleanor (Mrs. Thomas Ship 
ley, of Hanover township), born August 29, 1833. 
Robert F. Proudfit was born in York county, 
Penn., coming with his parents to Washington 
county, when about four years of age. The family 
located one mile and a half west of Burgettstown, 
where Robert F. grew to manhood, working on the 
farm and receiving such education as could then 
be secured in the country schools. On January 
15, L849, he was married to Sarah E. Porter, who 
was born August 9, 1823, in the eastern part of 
the county, near Monongahela City. She was a 
daughter of Williarn Porter, who kept a hotel 
along the National pike, two miles from Monon- 
gahela City. Two children were born to this 
union, namely: Margaret E. (Mrs. W. J. Mc- 
Nary, of Smith township), and John P. (subject of 
our sketch). Mr. and Mrs. Proudfit lived near 
Bavington, Smith township, for several years after 
their marriage. His father died in 1849 and he 
then moved upon the home place. When a lad of 
fifteen years, Mr. Proudfit received an injury from 
which he never fully recovered, and during his later 
years spent much time in travel, hoping to improve. 
|>li\ sically. In 1870 he took a trip to Europe, and 
the benefit received from the journey, though en- 
couraging, was but temporary. In 1876 he visited 
the western States, and the trip seemed to imparl 
new strength, but, as before, the improvement was 
not permanent, and August 13, 1887, he passed 
away. He was an energetic and industrious man, 
leaving considerable property, and in polities was 
a lifelong Democrat. He was formerly connected 
with the Presbyterian Church, but not long before 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



775 



his death joined the U. P. Church. His widow 
has continued to reside on the home farm, which 
is owned by her only son, with whom she makes 
her home. 

John P. Proudfit was born May 5, 1858, on the 
home farm near Burgettstown where he has al- 
ways resided. He received a common-school edu- 
cation, and on September 3, 1879, was married to 
Carrie I. Russell, who was born April 2">, 185S, 
daughter of Alexander Russell, a native of Char- 
tiers township, who settled in Muskingum county. 
Ohm. To John P. and Carrie I. Proudfit four 
children have been born, namely: Ethel S., born 
August 20, 1880; Alexander R.,*born May ■'>, 1NS8; 
AunieM.,born February 24, 1880; and Robert F., 
born March 15, 1888. Mr. Proudfit has had 
charge of the home farm since coming of age, and 
is a successful and progressive agriculturist. In 
politics he has always been a Democrat, and in re- 
ligion he and his wife are members of the U. P. 
Church at Burgettstown. 




ATTHEW WELCH (deceased) was one of 
the most prominent and highly esteemed 
citizens of Smith township. He was a son 
,of John Welch, who was born in 1782, in 
County Down, Ireland, and when ten 
years of age came with some older brothers to 
America. They located in Lancaster county, Penn., 
where he was reared to manhood, and married to 
Jane McClelland, a native of that county. After 
marriage this couple came to Washington county, 
locating in the eastern part of Smith township; 
afterward moved to Harrison county, Ohio, where 
their children were born, as follows: Mary (mar- 
ried to Abraham Barger, of Harrison county, Ohio), 
Elizabeth (Mrs. Samuel Osburn, of Harrison county, 
Ohio), Ann (deceased wife of Matthew Siemens, of 
Harrison county, Ohio). Samuel (living in Wash- 
ington county, Iowa), John (a resident of Union- 
port, Jefferson Co., Ohio), Matthew (subject of our 
sketch), Jane (deceased wife of John McCullough), 
David (a resident of Harrison county, Ohio), James 
and William (both in Harrison county). Mr. Welch 
possessed characteristic spirit of energy and enter- 
prise, and beginning life a poor boy, he became a 
successful business man. In politics he was first a 
Whig, afterward a Republican. He and his wife 
were earnest members of the Presbyterian Church. 
They both died in 1872, and are buried side by 
side in the Ridge Church cemetery, Archer town- 
ship, Harrison Co., Ohio. 

Matthew Welch was born March 27, 1825, in 
Archer township, Harrison Co., Ohio, and remained 
on the home farm during boyhood, receiving a 
common-school education. In early life he took a 
trip west, but being seized with ague, did not 
remain, but returned east, settling in Washington 



county, Penn. On December 18, 1856, he was 
married to Hannah M. Welch, who was born Sep 
teuiber 19, 1823. in Smith township, this county, 
daughter of Matthew Welch. Mr. and Mrs. Welch 
first made their home in this county, in Cross Creek 
township, then moved to Robinson township, and 
in 1872 came to Smith township, locating about 
one mile and a half south of Burgettstown, where 
Mr. Welch died April 23, 1890. Since the death 
of her husband, Mrs. Welch has continued to 
reside on the farm, which is well improved and 
adorned with an elegant residence. Mr. Welch 
was a Republican, and was often called upon to 
fill offices of honor and trust in his township. He 
was a member of the IT. P. Church, of which his 
widow is also a member. Their children were 
John M., Lizzie B., Matthew R. (deceased in 
childhood) and J. Vincent, all those living being 
still at home, the two sons having charge of the 
farm, which they manage with admirable success. 




( LBERT D. SCOTT, a representative busi- 
ly ness man and leading grocer of Mononga- 
l\ hela, is of Irish ancestry. His grandfather. 



James Scott, was born in Ireland, where he 
followed farming, and came to America 
when about twenty-five years of age. He and his 
wife (who was formerly a Miss Scott, and a native 
of Scotland) first settled on a farm in Maryland, 
and in 1800 came to Pennsylvania, locating on a 
wild tract of land in Carroll township, Washington 
county. They afterward moved to Millsborough. 
same county, where they died, leaving the follow 
ing children; JohD, Alexander, William, Joseph, 
James, Robert, Elmer, Nancy and Rebecca. 

John Scott, son of James, was born in 1798, in 
Elkton, Md., and in 1800 was brought by his par- 
ents in a pack-saddle to Washington county, Penn. 
He received his early education in the schools of 
Washington county, then learned the shoemaker's 
trade. In early manhood he was married to Miss 
Hannah Davis, of Ohio, and children as follows 
were born unto them: John Davis, Mary Jane. 
James Alexander, Lucinda, Hannah Louisa, Nan- 
cy Ann, Albert D., Amanda, Rebecca and Cas 
sandra. For his second wife he was married to 
Mary Hazelett, but she bore him no children. 
After his marriage Mr. Scott followed teaming 
from Baltimore, often using six-horse teams, and 
also worked at his trade, proving an enterprising 
man. In his political opinion he voted with the 
Democratic party; in religious faith he was a mem- 
ber of the Presbyterian Church. He died in 1890. 
Albert D. Scott was born April 4, 1845, on the 
home place in Washington county, where his school 
days were passed. In 1867 he began business for 
himself with D. H. Williams in the butchering 
line, which he continued to follow for ten years, 



76 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



and in 1868 opened the grocery establishment 
which he has since conducted at Monongahela, 
having won success by untiring industry. On De- 
cember 15, 1869, he married Rebecca, daughter of 
Upton Ammon, a resident of Monongahela, Penn. , 
and they have five children, namely: Anna, Mary, 
Tracy, Judson and John. 



.If AMES THOMPSON (deceased) was born 
March 30, 1814, at Evansville, Ind. His 
V Jj father, John Thompson, was a native of Ire- 
^^ land, and was married to Ann Lazalier, of 
English birth. John and Ann Thompson 
had three sons who were left orphans at an early 
age, then being taken charge of by an uncle, James 
Thompson. He gave them an education and trade, 
James choosing the tanner's trade and his brothers 
selecting the saddler's business. James served his 
apprenticeship, then, deciding to follow agriculture, 
engaged in that calling. He was offered a position 
in a mercantile business, but refused it, and with 
some assistance from his uncle, began to farm. 
He was married February 29, 1K48, to Mary A. 
Provines, who was born December 31, 1817, near 
Burgettstown, Penn., and received a limited edu- 
cation in the subscription schools, walking three 
miles to secure her literary advantages. She was 
the daughter of Charles and Sarah (McCon- 
nell) Provines, both of Irish parentage. Her ma- 
ternal grandparents came to Pennsylvania during 
the Revolutionary period. Mr. Provines died when 
Mary A. was but nine years of age, and when she 
had attained the age of womanhood, her mother 
sold the home farm, removing to West Middle- 
town, where the daughter was married. Her 
grandparents were Thomas and Martha MeConnell. 
After his marriage, James Thompson settled in 
Cross Creek township, near West Middletown. He 
then purchased the adjoining farm in Hopewell 
township, where he remained until his death, 
which occurred August 5, 1879, he leaving four chil- 
dren: John L., James Franklin, William W. and 
Dorcas A. Mr. Thompson was a successful busi- 
ness man, and owned two large and fertile farms. 
He was prominent in local affairs, but accepted no 
public offices, although a zealous supporter of the 
Republican party, fie was a regular attendant of 
the United Presbyterian. Church, serving many 
years as a trustee, although never formally uniting 
with the congregation. After the death of her 
husband, Mrs. Thompson continued to reside on 
the old homestead which nestles among the hills 
near West Middletowu. In the year 1891 she 
erected a handsome house of modern design in 
West Middletown, where she and her daughter are 
now residing. Among the family records preserved 
by Mrs. Thompson, there is a faded and worn scrap 
of paper, upon which is written, in her father's 



hand, the following lines, given as an indication 
of his character, for Charles Proviues was ever as 
ready to avow his faith in the Creator, as to name 
his home: 

Charles Provines is my name, 

Irelaud is my nation; 

Onega is my dwelling place. 

And God is my salvation. 

Two of the sons of Mrs. Thompson are married: 
John L. selected as a life companion Miss Adeline 
McNary, of Cross Creek township, and they are 
living on the old homestead. James Franklin is 
married to Lucy L. Denny, of West Middletown, 
and is living in Independence township. They 
have three children: James D., Harold and Mary. 
The Thompson family are identified with the United 
Presbyterian Church, and are descended from an- 
cestors who were God-fearing men and women. 



lyT/OBLE FAMILY. About the year L80] 

yJ| William Noble, who was a weaver, a trade 

\\ he followed for many years in his native 

J - 1 land, Ireland. Bet sail with his family for 
America, the voyage across the Atlantic 
occupying fourteen weeks. They landed at New 
York, and from there proceeded to Shippensburgh, 
Penn., where they remained two years, and then 
came westward to this county, arriving about the 
year 1810. William Noble settled on a rented 
farm in Buffalo township, where he engaged in 
agriculture until 1822, in which year he moved to 
Stark county, Ohio, where he and his sons, Robert, 
John and James, purchased a farm near the town 
of Massillon, which property was entirely unim- 
proved, but was by the industry and care of the 
family ere long converted into a fine fertile piece 
of land. Here he died in 1845. He reared a 
family of five children, viz.: John, James, Will- 
iam, Robert and Elizabeth (wife of James John- 
son). Mr. Noble was a member of the Presby- 
terian Church, and for thirteen years was an elder 
of the same in Ohio; politically he was a Demo- 
crat, at all times taking an active interest in the 
affairs of the party. 

William Noble, son of this veteran pioneer, was 
born in County Tyrone, Ireland, in 1793, and 
when eight years of age came with his parents to 
the United States, and to Buffalo township, thisr 
county, where during the rest of his life he suc- 
cessfully followed farming, also worked at his trade, 
that of a weaver. He was married to Rachel 
Spencer, whose father was a native of Florida, and 
the children that came to this union were Sarah 
(wife of George Miller), James, Robert, Eliza, 
Henry O, Nancy A. (wife of Daniel McPherson), 
Samuel A. and William. The father passed from 
earth in 1867, the mother following him to the 
grave in 1884, and both repose in the cemetery at 







&, 



A 



*1 




>v 





&t^i^l~&4? 




WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



779 



Claysville. They were devout members and liberal 
supporters of the Presbyterian Church at Upper 
Buffalo, aud he was a warm friend of education 
and a zealous advocate of all public enterprises 
tending to the promotion of good in the commu- 
nity. A member of the Democratic party, he was 
an active worker and fearless partisan. 

James Noble, one of the oldest and most re- 
spected citizens of Buffalo township, was born 
August 13, 1816, in Donegal township, Washing- 
ton Co., Peun., a son of William and Rachel 
(Spencer) Noble. He received his education at 
the primitive schools of his boyhood days, and at 
the age of thirteen years commenced to work on 
the farm of Isaac Hodgens, with whom he re- 
mained some twenty-two years, his wages being 
for first year $6 per month, increasing year by year 
until he was in receipt of $20 per month. In 
August, 1839, Mr. Noble was married to Maria, 
daughter of George Mealy, and one child was born 
to this union, Mary, now the wife of John Brown, 
of Donegal township. The mother of this child 
dying in 1841, Mr. Noble married, August 14, 1849, 
Rebecca, daughter of George Ritchey,of Donegal 
township, and the children born to this marriage 
are Rachel (wife of T. B. Craig), Hester J. (wife 
of Franklin Bebout), Amanda, Nettie (wife of W. 
F. Crothers), Clara, Blanche and James. Mr. 
Noble has passed his entire life in Buffalo and Don- 
egal townships, twenty-three years in the latter, 
having, in 1870, come to his present fine home 
where he has 425 acres of well-improved land. In 
politics he is a Democrat, and has always taken an 
active interest in the affairs of the party in both 
the townships he has been a resident of, and has 
held various positions of trust. He and his wife 
are members and prominent supporters of the 
United Presbyterian Church at Taylorstown. 

Robert Noble, another worthy representative of 
this prominent family, is also a native of Washing- 
ton county, born in Buffalo township, April 4, 1819, 
a son of William and Rachel (Spencer) Noble. He 
received his education in the subscription schools 
of the locality in which he was born, and was 
reared to the arduous and manifold duties of farm 
life. On September 2, 1842, he was married to 
Rachel, daughter of John McKean, aud the chil- 
dren born to this union are: William R. (a farmer 
in Buffalo township), Margaret J. (Mrs. John H. 
Van Kirk), aud John W. and Wishart S. (both 
farmers of Buffalo township). The mother of this 
family dying May 5, 1855, Mr. Noble in 1856 
married Mary Graham, who was called from earth 
in 1887, and our subject afterward, in February, 
1889, was united in wedlock with Jane, daughter 
of John Zink, of Brooke county, W. Va. Up to the 
year 1885 he carried on farming operations in Buf- 
falo township, and then came to the borough of 
Claysville, where he has since lived a retired life. 



The family are members of the United Presbyterian 
Church at Claysville. In his political preferences 
Mr. Noble has always voted the Democratic ticket, 
and he has held various township offices with much 
credit to himself, and the perfect satisfaction of his 
constituents. He is the owner of 550 acres of fine 
farming land in Buffalo township, and has always 
been regarded as an enterprising and progressive 
man, commanding the respect of all. 

[Since the above was prepared for the press, word has 
been received of the death of Mr. Robert Noble, Febru- 
ary 22, 1893.— Ed. 

Henet Clay Noble, a well-known representative 
citizen of Buffalo township, is a native of the same, 
having been born November 14, 1825, a son of 
William and Rachel (Spencer) Noble. His educa- 
tion was received in the subscription schools of the 
neighborhood, which, however, owing to his many 
duties on the farm he was unable to attend with 
any degree of regularity. His first " book " was 
a common shingle, on which were chalked the let- 
ters of the alphabet, and from this our youthful 
hero and his classmates (who were similarly pro- 
vided) had to learn their "A,B,C's." This, it may 
well be imagined, became the source of no small 
amusement to, and a great deal of ridicule from, 
the boys of the more advanced classes, who teased 
these juniors unmercifully and unceasingly, so 
much so that, after school was dismissed, they 
took their shingles to the corner of the school-house 
and broke them into splinters, for which they were 
duly punished at home. Many were the hardships 
the early student had to contend with; but it was 
such hardships that produced brain and brawn in 
the community from which have evolved some of 
the very best men in our land. On June 21, 1854, 
Mr. Noble was married to Rachel C, daughter of 
Thomas Carson, of Buffalo township, and the chil- 
dren born to this union were: Thomas G. (living at 
home) and William L. (married June 13, 1878, to 
Miss Bertha R., daughter of William Mitchell, of 
Washington county, Penn. , by which union there 
has been born one child, Mary H. ; Mr. Noble died 
March 19, 1885). Henry Clay Noble has passed 
his entire life in Buffalo township, with the excep- 
tion of ten years before his marriage and ten years 
after, during which period he was a resident of 
Donegal township. He is a typical self-made man, 
and is justly proud of his success, which he secured 
by hard work, judicious economy and enterprise. 
His farm of 208 acres is finely situated and well 
improved. He is an attendant and liberal sup- 
porter of the Presbyterian Church at Claysville, 
and in his political preferences is an active Demo- 
crat; he has frequently been urged to accept office, 
and has at various times been elected a justice of 
the peace, but has invariably either refused to 
accept or declined to serve. Physically, Mr. Noble 
is a large, strong man, well-preserved for his 



780 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



years, with the promise of a long life before 
him. 

Samuel A. Noble, the next youngest son of 
William and Rachel (Spencer) Noble, was born 
October 14, 1827, in Donegal township, Washing- 
ton Co., Penn., where he was carefully reared to 
the arduous duties of farm life, attending in the 
winter months the schools of the neighborhood. 
Being a diligent student and an apt scholar, Mr. 
Noble soon fitted himself for the position of teacher, 
which he filled with marked ability during several 
winters, in his township. He remained on the 
home farm until his marriage, and then took up 
his residence on Dutch fork of Buffalo creek, in 
the same township, where he followed agricultural 
pursuits. For a couple of years his family lived 
in West Alexander, during which time he contin- 
ued farm work, and in 1N73 he moved to what was 
known as the " George Stoolfire farm " in the same 
township, which he now owns and lives on; it is 
situated two and one half miles north of West 
Alexander, and is a highly improved piece of prop- 
erty. On September 3, 1851, Mr. Noble was 
united in marriage with Catherine B. Shaler, who 
was born August 31, 1831, in Donegal township, 
this county, a daughter of William Shaler, of that 
township, and the following children have come to 
bless their union: Clara (who was twice married, 
first time to W. O. Ralston, and after his decease 
to Joseph Wetzel, of Granville, Licking Co., Ohio), 
Luther and Flora (both deceased when young), 
and Harry (living with his parents, and working 
on his father's farm). Mr. Noble is now one of 
the largest landowners in this township, the result 
of hard work, good management and sound finan- 
ciering. His farm is kept in excellent order, neat 
and trim, and well-merited success has repaid his 
labors, and he is extensively engaged in the wool 
business, keeping over one thousand sheep. He is 
a prominent member of the Democratic party, and 
he and his wife are substantial members of the 
Dutch Fork Disciple Church. 

William R. Noble, one of the most popular and 
best known farmers and stock raisers of Buffalo 
township, was born July 2, 1844, on the old home- 
stead (originally the Carson farm) in Buffalo town- 
ship, Washington Co., Penn., a son of Robert and 
Rachel (McKean) Noble. His education was secured 
at the common schools of his district, which he has 
supplemented with much reading and general ob- 
servation, aud to-day he is one of the best informed 
men in his section. At the age of twenty-two he 
married Rachel, daughter of George Miller, of 
Donegal township, by which union there is one 
child, Laura B., now a highly accomplished young 
lady, attending the academy at Washington, this 
county. This wife dying December 16, 1872, Mr. 
Noble married, August 31, 1876, Miss Emma, 
daughter of David Clark, of Buffalo township. 



After his first marriage Mr. Noble settled on the 
farm where the family now reside, and which he 
has greatly improved, having added many new 
commodious buildings, thereby making it one of 
the finest country seats in Buffalo township. It is 
situated near the western boundary line of the 
township, and comprises 175 acres of the choicest 
land. Here Mr. Noble's chief occupation consists 
in overseeing the work on the farm, and the raising 
and selling of live stock, in which he does a large 
business. He is an extensive breeder of Spanish 
sheep and Shorthorn cattle. Politically, Mr. Noble 
is a Democrat, and a leading adviser in his party. 
Mrs. Noble is a very highly esteemed lady, well- 
known and generally admired for her sterling 
qualities. 

John \V. Noble, the next youngest son of Rob- 
ert and Rachel (McKean) Noble, was born July 
26, 1850, in Buffalo township, this county, on 
the old farm that has been in the possession 
of the family ever since it was patented. He 
was educated in the common schools of his 
district, and early in life evinced an aptitude 
for business, which, judiciously applied, has 
brought him well-merited success. On November 
14, 1877, he was united in marriage with Miss 
Anna M. Jamison, of Donegal township, aud two 
children have been born to them — Robert Andrew 
and Lester Floyd. Mr. Noble and his family at- 
tend the services of the United Presbyterian 
Church at Taylorstown, toward the support of 
which he gives liberally of his means. He is a 
stanch member of the Democratic party, always 
taking an active part in its councils. He is a lead- 
ing man in his section, enjoying the respect aud 
esteem of all as an honest, upright, loyal citizen. 

Wishart Stevenson Noble, youngest son of 
Robert and Rachel (McKean) Noble, was born 
July 20, 1854, in Buffalo township, this county, 
on the old home farm. His boyhood was passed 
in attending the common schools in winter time, 
and in assisting in the work of the farm during the 
summer months. Until the age of twenty-two he 
remained at the parental home, and then, having 
married, moved to his present farm in the same 
township, where he has since been engaged in gen- 
eral farming and stock raising (with the exception 
of one year he was engaged in the hardware busi- 
ness, in Finleyville, this county), and in all his 
enterprises he has been eminently successful. On 
August 17, 1876, Mr. Noble was married to Flora 
Bebout, who bore him children as follows: Jennie 
Bell, born March 25, 1878; Daztmease Burnell, 
born September 6, 1880; Susie B., born June 24, 
L888, and Edna, born June 9, 1891, all yet living. 
Mrs. Noble and other members of the family are 
members of the Presbyterian Church. Politically 
Mr. Noble is a Democrat, and has tilled with much 
credit several offices of trust in his township. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



783 



JOHN S. NOBLE is a grandson of William 
Noble, who was born in Woodside, Scotland, 
and there received a superior education. In 
the year 1805, William Noble immigrated to 
America, abandoning a large estate to seek 
a fortune in the New World. After arriving in the 
United States, he finally settled in Lancaster 
county, Penn., on a tract of land, lie married 
Elizabeth Howe, and had a family. He was a 
soldier in the war of 1812, and in that contest gave 
his life for his adopted country. 

William C, a son of William and Elizabeth 
(Howe) Noble, was born in America, May 2, 1789, 
and in early manhood was united in marriage with 
Elizabeth, daughter of John Scott, an early settler 
of Washington county. The following children 
were born to them: John S., born November 22, 
1833; Elizabeth, born March 30, 1836; Wlliam H, 
born July 19, 1837; and James S. (deceased), horn 
March 1 1, 1839. The father died April 20, 1859. 

John S. Noble (the subject of this sketch) was 
born on the old homestead in Buffalo township, and 
received a good education in the common schools. 
When the Civil war broke out, he enlisted in Com- 
pany B, First West Virginia Cavalry, ('apt. Forbes 
commanding. He was taken sick while in the 
service, and lost his health. Mr. Noble has been 
a Republican in his political preferences. A sister 
now makes her home with him. She is a devout 
Christian lady, and has been a member of the 
United Presbyterian Church at Claysville, this coun- 
ty, since she was twenty-two years of age. 



tive 

Sr., 



of 
his 



L Ml RS. MARTHA MEHAFFEY, widow of 

x//\ Mitchell Mehaffey, was born June 20, 

■il 1818, in Buffalo township, Washington 

j -* Co., Penn., and is a daughter of Charles 

McRoberts, Jr., who was also a na- 

Buffalo township. Charles McUoberts, 

father, was born in Scotland, and there 

married Mary Herron, shortly after which they 

emigrated to America, making a settlement in 

Washington county, Penn., where he patented a 

large tract of land. At this early period of the 

county's history, Indians and wild animals roamed 

the forests where are now peaceful valleys and 

fertile farms. Here this sturdy Scotch pioneer set 

to work and cleared a portion of the land, whereon 

he erected a saw and grist mill, which, despite 

the incursions and menaces of the Redmen, he 

conducted for many years. He departed for the 

"Better Land" in 1785, leaving a widow and seven 

children: James, William, John, Samuel, Charles, 

Charlotte and Mary, all now deceased 

Of this family, Charles, the father -of the sub- 
ject proper of these lines, was born June 1, 1773, 
in Buffalo township, where he received his educa- 
tion in the primitive schools of the period. In 



early manhood he taught for several years in the 
schools of Taylorstown and also several terms near 
Claysville. At the age of about forty years he 
married Mary, daughter of William Donaldson, a 
resident of Pennsylvania, east of the mountains. 
and the children born to this union were twin 
daughters — Martha (Mrs. Mehaffey) and Elizabeth 
(Mrs. Grimes, mother of A. J. and W. C. Grimes,, 
farmers in Buffalo township). The father died 
May 29, 1857, aged eighty four years, and the 
mother on October 1, 1855, aged seventy-nine 
years. They were honored and respected citizens, 
and devout Christians, members of the North Buf- 
falo United Presbyterian Church. 

Martha McRoberts was born June 20, IMS. She 
passed her girlhood on her father's farm, and re 
Ceived her education at the subscription schools of 
the neighborhood. On January 21, 1839, she was 
united in wedlock with Mitchell Mehaffey, of 
Donegal township, Washington county. His par- 
ents were natives of Ireland, who hail emigrated 
to this country and made a settlement in Wash 
ington county, Penn. , in an early day. where he 
was born December 29, 1814. To this union were 
born children as follows: Ellen (Mrs. McGuffiD ), died 
August 3, 1891; Samuel, residing in Washington, 
Penn., and Robert, John, Charles Madison, Will 
iam A., Mary J. and Martha, all yet living on the 
old homestead. Mr. Mehaffey departed this life 
April 22, 1884. He was a sincere Christian and 
a consistent member of the Presbyterian Church; 
in politics he was a prominent Democrat, and had 
filled with much credit many offices of trust and 
responsibility in his township. Mrs. Martha Me- 
haffey is a lady of much intelligence and refine- 
ment, and possessed of remarkable memory for one 
of her years. She is a devout member of the 
Presbyterian Church, as are the entire family ; and 
she is now calmly awaiting with Christian resig- 
nation the summons that shall call her to the River 
of Life. Her sons are highly respected citizens, 
and thoroughly practical farmers and stock 
raisers. 




ILBERT ENGLE is a son-in-law of 
Henry Moninger, who was born in Ha- 
gerstown, Md. , in 1790, and coming to 
Washington county at the age of twenty 
years, finally located near the Lutheran settlement 
on the place now known as the " Mike Moninger " 
farm, which he afterward bought. Henry Mon- 
iuger's education was received in the subscription 
schools of his day, and he was considered a well- 
informed man, one possessed of an unusual amount 
of good judgment. He was united in marriage 
with a Miss Hess, of Amity, this county, and the 
following named children blessed their union: 
John, born 1810; George, 1812; Mary, 1814; 



784 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Henry, 1816; Andrew J., 1818; Susanna, 1820; 
Jacob, 1822; Catherine 1825; Sarah, 1827; and 
Elizabeth, 1832; one child died in infancy. The 
children of his second marriage, with Miss Sarah 
Hughes, of Washington county, were Robert M. , 
born in 1844, died young; James A., in 1848, 
and Emma O, in 1850. One child died in in- 
fancy unnamed. Mr. Moninger was engaged in 
buying and selling land, farming and stock drov- 
ing. He was remarkably energetic and perse- 
vering, as was evinced in the fact that when 
Beventy-five years of age he moved with his 
family to Brooke county, W. Va. , and there pur- 
chased 600 acres of land, upon which he died in 
1864. He was originally a Whig, and afterward 
a Republican, and though always willing to give 
any possible aid to his party, was no office seeker. 
In religious connection he was an honored member 
of the Disciple Church at Lone Pine. 

Mrs. Emma C. (Moninger) Engle was born in 
Char tiers township, and remained with the family 
in West Virgiuia and Washington county, Penn. 
She attended school at Washington, Lone Pine 
and at Pleasant Hill Seminary. She prepared for 
the vocation of a teacher, but having met with an 
accident in 1868 was compelled to abandon that 
profession. Like her sister, Elizabeth, who was a 
graduate of Olome Institute, Canonsburg, Mrs. 
Engle was a close student and is an excellent 
scholar. In April, 1891, she became the wife of 
Wilbert Engle, a prominent young citizen of Lone 
Pine. Amwell township. Wilbert Engle was born 
in Washington county, where he has always re- 
sided. He is a son of William and Catherine 
Engle, and was educated in the common schools. 
Mrs. Engle. is an eager reader of current literature, 
for from 1868 to 1888, during the period of her 
lameness, she read many of the standard works 
and much of all that was good in modern publica- 
tions. Mr. Engle farms during the summer and 
mines coal during the winter. Both are devout 
members of the Church of Christ at Lone Pine. 
Mrs. Engle and her brother James are the only 
representatives of this large family, who have re- 
sided at home within the period covered by her 
memory, and both are living at Lone Pine. 



[ [\ WILLIAM M. PHILIPS is a son of Jo- 
siah, whose father, David, was the leading 
pioneer preacher of Peters township. 
Rev. David Philips was born in 1742, in 
Wales, and emigrating many years ago, 
lirst settled in Chester county, Penn., where he 
was married to Miss Mary Thomas. The young 
couple then came to Washington county and took 
up 100 acres of land on the boundary line of Wash- 
ington and Allegheny counties, for which a patent 
was secured March 4, 17b>6. Prior to locating in 



Peters township David Philips had been a captain, 
in the Revolutionary war, and in religious connec- 
tion was a member of the Great Valley Baptist 
Church. After settling in Washington county he 
served forty years as pastor of the Peters Creek 
Baptist Church, the land upon which the church is 
now standing having formerly been a portion of 
liis property. The following children were born to 
this couple: Mary, Benjamin, John, Joseph, 
Joseph 2d, Thomas, Josiah, David, David 2d, Mar- 
tha and Rachel (twins), Sarah aud Isaac. During 
the Civil war a full company of the descendants of 
Rev. David Philips took an active part in the con- 
test, and nearly one thousand of his descendants 
are yet living. 

Josiah Philips, son of David and Mary (Thomas) 
Philips, was born April 14, 1770, in Chester 
county, Penn., and in 1779 came with his parents 
to the old homestead near Library, Washington 
county. He grew to manhood on the old place, 
and was wedded to Sarah Bell, who bore him the 
following children: David, Mary, John, Joseph, 
Isaac, Robert, Elizabeth, Sarah, Nancy and Josiah. 
The mother died, and for his second wife Josiah 
Philips married Mary, daughter of John and 
Jane Boyer, and widow of Richard Blackmore. 
They had four children, namely: Margaret, Rich- 
ard (deceased), William M. and James B. 

William M. Philips, whose name introduces this 
biography, was born April 11, 1826, on the home- 
stead in Peters township, Washington Co., Penn. 
He remained on the farm during boyhood, and in 
early life learned the cabinetmaker's trade, follow- 
ing that business for the five years following 1853, 
On August 18, 1853, he married Miss Mary E. 
Riggs, of Peters township, who was born June 3, 
1835. To them were born the following children: 
Edward B., Lloyd S. , Hettie L., Anna C., Norman 
W., Roland J. and Harry W. The farm, which he 
has occupied since 1858, contains sixty-five well- 
cultivated acres, all improvements having been 
made by the present owner. He has always voted 
with the Republican or Prohibition party, and in 
religious faith is a member (with all his family) of 
and deacon in the Christian Church. Mrs. Marv 
E. Philips died July 17, 1892. 

Edward Riggs was a man " ever foremost of his 
comrades'' in all matters of social, religious, edu- 
cational and political reform. A stanch advocate 
of Abolition in its most unpopular days, with 
Edward Campbell and Edward Anderson — the 
"Three Edwards'' — comprised for many years 
the whole of the Abolition party in Peters township. 
He was one of the leading spirits in forming the 
Peters Creek Christian Church. He was born 
July 2, 1802, married Hettie Newmeyer, of Fay- 
ette county, Penn., January 1, 1826, and to tin in 
eleven children were born, of whom the late Mrs. 
Philips was one. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



785 



J| AMES THEODORE DAY. Among the early 
settlers of Washington county, who helped 
J to reclaim its fertile lands from the dense 
primeval forests, was Luther Day. He was 
descended from a hardy English family, who, in 
early colonial days had settled in New Jersey. 
Locating in Morris township about ITSi, he mar- 
ried Mary Van Kirk, and reared a family of seven 
children, as follows: William V. , Daniel. Priscilla, 
Lavina, Arvida, Maria and Artemus; of whom 
Daniel, Priscilla and Arvida are still living, being 
residents of Morris township. Luther Day 
devoted his whole life to farming and was success- 
fid. He died in 1874. His eldest son, William 
V. Day, was born July 12, 1812, and on Decem- 
ber 5, 1834, was married to Sarah Patterson, a 
native of Morris township, born November 17, 1812. 
To them were born seven children: Alanson R., 
born October, 1835, married Lydia M. Cort, and at 
present resides in Carroll township, Washington 
county; James Theodore, whose sketch follows; 
Almus L., born May 2, 1840, and died February 
28, 1845; Sarah L., born December 9, 1842, 
married Joseph Andrew, and resides in Boulder 
county, Colo.; Mary E. , born August 1, 1845, 
was married September 21, 1873, to Oresta Vail, 
and died April 2, 1880; William Howard, born 
February 19, 1848, was married September 10, 
1876, to Mary E. Rowley, of Texas, where they 
now reside; Ida P., born February 28, 1854, mar- 
ried October 13, 1875, to W. J. Fleniken, now de- 
ceased. The father died May 2, 1883, and the 
mother in 1887. Luther Day was a great reader — 
possessed a wonderful memory, and was a ready 
.speaker. His height was five feet and ten inches, 
and his weight 170 pounds. 

James Theodore Day, born March 7, 1837, was 
reared on his father's farm, and trained to a good 
practical knowledge of farm work. His early 
mental training was received in the neighborhood 
schools, from which he obtained an ordinary busi- 
ness education. In beginning business life, he 
started as a farmer, in which he has since success- 
fully continued. He entered the Federal army 
August 12, 1861, as a member of the Twenty- 
Second Cavalry Regiment, of Pennsylvania Volun- 
teers. He rendered gallant service until Septem- 
ber, 1863, when he was honorably discharged on 
account of disability, resulting from a serious 
wound received in making a charge near Moore- 
held, W. Va. One year later he returned to his 
home in Washington county, and on May 24, 1866, 
was married to Elizabeth Horton, a daughter of 
Thomas Horton, of East Bethlehem township. 
To them five children have been born, viz. : Maria 
S., torn July 9, 1869; Annie M., born October 19, 
1871; Lizzie Bell, born June 15, 1874; Margaret 
Elnora, born May 2, 1880, and died January 9, 
1882; Mabel Ida, born November 17, 1881. The 



daughters that have attained a requisite age are 
teaching school, and preparing themselves for a 
high class of educational work. Mr. Da/ gives 
his exclusive attention to the management of his 
excellent farm, located at the west end of Sparta, 
and which has in turn been owned by grandfather, 
father and son. In politics Mr. Day is a Repub- 
lican. Both he and his wife are members of the 
Cumberland Presbyterian Church at Old Concord. 



It Mi RS. MARTHA STILLWAGEN is a daugh- 
v/l ter of Joseph Miller, whose father, Chris- 
XII topher Miller, emigrated from Germany to 
^ this country and settled on Dutch Fork 
v creek, Buffalo township, Washington Co., 

Penn., where his son Joseph was born (supposed 
in 1804) and reared. Joseph Miller passed his 
early years on the home farm, and was afterward 
united in marriage with Miss Sally Cellars, of 
Washington county, Penn. He settled on a farm 
near Claysville, this county, and followed agricult- 
ural pursuits all his life. The following children 
were born to them: Valentine, John, Thomas, Mary, 
Martha, Joseph, Cellars, James, and an unnamed 
infant. Mr. Miller was a generous, kiud-heaiH'd 
man, and enjoyed a deserved popularity among his 
neighbors. He was a stanch member of the Whig 
party, but not an active politician. 

Martha Miller was born April 19, 1830, and was 
the fifth child in the order of birth. She was 
reared on the home farm, and assisted with the 
household duties until her marriage to Charles 
Stillwagen (who was born January 19, 1819), which 
event occurred on February 14, 1850. The young 
couple began their married life in Donegal town- 
ship, Washington county, and afterward re- 
moved to the present home of the family in West 
Finley township. Fifteen children have been born 
to them (but ten of whom are now living), viz. : 
George J., Andrew J., Charles, Mary E., Martha 
J., Annie,. Vanissie, Joseph, Michael, Clarissa, 
Caroline, Eliza B., Thomas, John and William. 
Mr. Stillwagen was a stanch Democrat, and held 
several important offices. He was always indus- 
trious, and owned over two hundred acres of fine 
land at the time of his death, which occurred De- 
cember 4, 1886. In religion he was a member of 
the Catholic Church. 



IfSAAC HODGENS, a progressive and popular 
young farmer citizen of Buffalo township, is 
a native of the same, born March 27. 1858, on 
the farm where he yet resides. He is a son 
of Thomas and Margaret (Wilson) Hodgens, the 
latter of whom was a daughter of William Wilson, 
late of Buffalo township. 

Thomas Hodgens was a native of the same town- 



786 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 




ship, whither his parents had come in an early day, 
and here he was born June 29, 1826, and reared 
to the many and varied arduous duties of farm life. 
His winter months were to a considerable extent 
devoted to attending the neighboring subscription | 
schools, and improving what he may there have 
learned by study at home, acquiring in course of 
time, by earnest application to his books, a good, 
useful education. While yet a young man, Mr. 
Hodgens was married to Margaret Wilson, who was 
born in Taylorstown, January 5, 1829, and the 
young couple then took up their residence on the 
farm now occupied by R. W. Crothers, from which, 
after a few years, they moved to the place that is 
at present the home of our subject and his brother. 
This farm was totally unimproved, and was brought 
to its present state of cultivation by the assiduous 
labor, industry and perseverance of Thomas Hodg- 
ens. the buildings thereon having been erected by 
him and his family. The children born to Thomas 
and Margaret (Wilson) Hodgens were: William 
and Ella (both deceased), James W. , Isaac and 
Clara. On May 8, 1*62, the father passed from 
earth, and was followed to the grave by the mother 
April 13, 1869. They were constant attendants 
and liberal supporters of the Presbyterian Church 
at Claysville, and enterprising citizens, earning a 
reputation of which the family are justly proud. 
Mr. Hodgens was a stanch and loyal Democrat, 
and, although rarely accepting political prefer- 
ment, was ever a zealous worker for the party's 
cause. 

Isaac Hodgens received his education at the 
common schools of the district, and was reared in 
the practical lessons of farm life — lessons more val- 
uable to him in his sphere of life than all the 
classic lore of Athens and Rome. On October 27, 
1881, he was married to Caroline V., daughter of 
Abraham and Margaret (Wright) Hair, of Done- 
gal township, and the children born to this union 
are Harry and William. The family attend the 
services of the Presbyterian Church at Claysville; 
in politics Mr. Hodgens is an active Democrat, and 
has served his township in various position-- of 
trust and responsibility, now holding the office of 
school director. He is a well-known and valuable 
citizen, prominent in all undertakings conducive to 
the prosperity of the township and county. 



\ILLIAM A. GABBY, an enterprising citi- 
zen of Washington borough, comes of 
Scottish ancestry. His grandfather, James 
Gabby, emigrated from Scotland with two 
brothers, John and William, to Maryland, thence 
moving to Washington county in the year 1 7^7, 
and, locating on the farm in Franklin township 
which is now the home of his heirs, became one of 
the pioneer settlers of this county. He was united 



in marriage with Miss Jean Gabby, who bore him 
children as follows: William, Joseph, Mary, Ann, 
Jane, Margaret and Emma. 

Washington county was then almost an unbroken 
wilderness, inhabited principally by tierce savages, 
who often wreaked their fury on the daring pioneers 
who presumed to invade their domain. One night 
they attacked the house of Mr. Gabby and burned 
it to the ground, the family, who had barely time 
to escape with their lives, saving nothing but a 
Bible and a rifle. James Gabby was originally a 
Federalist, and then a Whig. In religious faith 
he was a member of the Covenanter Church. 

William Gabby (father of subject) was born 
September 14, 1803, on the home farm in Franklin 
township, this county, and in 1829 was married to 
Margaret, daughter of John and Mary McClellan. 
The following children were born to this union: 
.Mary (.Mrs. .lames G. Allison), James F., Margaret 
A. (Mrs. Jonathan Allison) and Jane (Mis. Ezra 
Cavey) (twins). William A., Frank M. and Ellen 
(twins). Hugh A., Robert R., John and Joseph. 
After his marriage Mr. Gabby settled on the farm 
where his son (William A.) now resides, and re- 
mained there thirty-three years; then removed to 
another part of the farm, now owned by J. P. 
Sayers, where he died May 21, 1883. He was an 
ardent member of the early Republican party. Iu 
religious faith he united in youth with the TJ. P. 
Church, and formerly attended the churches both 
at North and South Buffalo. He was one of the 
organizers of that denomination at Washington 
borough, and served as one of the first elders in the 
church, tilling that position until his death. 

William A. Gabby was born January 8, 1840. on 
the old home farm in Frankliu township, and there 
passed his early life, attending school and Washing- 
ton College. He then entered the war of the Re- 
bellion, enlisting August 28, 1861, in Company A, 
One Hundredth P. V. I., and was sent to South 
Carolina under T. W. Sherman, against Beaufort 
Island, and under Burnside to Kentucky and Ten- 
nessee; theuce marching under Grant he took part 
in the siege of Knoxville. Mr. Gabby then reen- 
listed December 28, 1863, for three years more, 
and was sent to the army of the Potomac. During 
the war he took part iu the following engagements: 
Fort Wagner, Second Bull Run. Chantilly. South 
Mountain. Antietam, Fredericksburg, Vicksburg, 
evacuation of Jackson, siege of Knoxville, Wilder- 
ness, Spottsylvania, North Anna, Cold Harbor, 
Petersburg and the mine explosion which occurred 
there. During one battle a bullet struck Mr. Gab 
by's canteen, but he escaped any injury, and was 
one of the participants in the grand review at 
Washington. He was discharged from the service 
July 26, 1865. 

On November 22, 1870, Mr. Gabby was united 
in marriage with Edith, daughter of Henry H. and 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



787 



Phoebe (Mintor) Wilson, of Washington county, 
Penn., and, locating on the farm which is yet his 
home, reared the following named children: Harry 
W. , John, Helen, Mary and Margaret. Mr. Gabby 
is a leading citizen, noted for his industry and enter- 
prise. In politics he is a Republican; in religion 
he has been a member of the United Presbyterian 
Church at Washington for many years. 



w 



VILSON and JOSEPH ARNOLD, members 
of the prosperous and well-known firm 
of Arnold Bros. , stock dealers in Chartiers 
township, are sons of John and Elizabeth 
(McMillen) Arnold, and are representatives of oue 
of the earliest and most prominent pioneer fami- 
lies of Washington county. 

Henry Arnold, a native of Germany, immigrated 
to America prior to the Revolution, and settled in 
eastern Pennsylvania, taking an active part in the 
conflict. After the close of the war he was mar- 
ried to Sarah Taylor, and moved upon a farm in 
Washington county, Penn., where his life was 
passed. He died at the age of ninety-nine years, 
and was buried with the honors of war, his aged 
wife surviving him about two years. 

John Arnold, son of the pioneer Henry Arnold, 
was born, in 1790, in Washington county, Penn., 
and received his education at the so-called sub- 
scription schools of the day, in the meantime be- 
ing reared to agricultural pursuits. In 1815 he 
married Elizabeth McMillen. who was born Sep- 
tember 15, 1797, in eastern Pennsylvania. She 
was a daughter of Robert and Sarah McMillen, 
who were of Scotch-Irish descent and settled in 
Chartiers township in 1803. Mr. and Mrs. Arnold 
settled on a farm in Chartiers township, where he- 
died in 1842. He was a member of the Associate 
Reformed Church at Cross Roads, and in politics 
affiliated with the Whig party. Mrs. Arnold passed 
away iu May, 1879, leaving a large family of 
children, of whom the following is a brief record: 
Levi, born in 1816, was married in 1837 to Miss 
Jane Donaldson, of Canonsburg, this county, and 
ten children were born to them, five of whom are 
yet living, namely: Mary (wife of Dr. Clark, of 
Pittsburgh, Penn.), John (married to a Miss Smith, 
of Canonsburg), Ettie, Simon and Sadie, the latter 
four living in Canonsburg (the father died in 1880, 
and his widow is yet living). Simon, born in Sep- 
tember, 1817, was married in 1861, to Josephine 
McMillen, of Cambridge, Ohio (he entered the serv- 
ice in 1862 in the One Hundred andFortieth P. V. I., 
and was killed July 2, 1863, at the battle of Gettys- 
burg; his wife died a few weeks before). Robert, 
born April 21, 1820, was married, about 1845, to 
Rachel Morrow, a native of this county (he was a 
blacksmith, also conducted a grocery in Washing- 
ton and Pittsburgh; ho died in this county, April 



26, 1886, leaving a widow and five sons, namely: 
Henry H. , living in Chartiers township; J. M. , 
Robert and James S. , all three married and resi- 
dents of Pittsburgh; and William Simon, a wid- 
ower, in Pittsburgh). Henry, born on February 22, 
1822, died in 1844. Nancy Jane, born April 17, 
L824, was married to Thomas Wallace, and settled 
in Knox county, Ohio, where two daughters were 
born to her: Elizabeth (Mrs. Dr. Hanna) and Jen- 
nie (wife of James L. Lindsey, living in Columbi- 
ana county, Ohio, but born in Washington county), 
the mother died in October, 1883. John, born 
March 14, 1826, was married to Mary Ann Ander- 
son, a native of Virginia, who came to Washington 
county, Penn., in an early day (after his marriage 
John settled in Chartiers township, but in 1862 
left home and enlisted in Company B, One Hun- 
dred and Fortieth P. V. I. ; he fought in the army 
of the Potomac, taking part in all the engagements 
of that division, and after the close of the war re- 
turned home to find that his wife had passed away 
in 1864, while he was in the service; he was acci- 
dentally killed in 1869, in Washington; he left 
five children, viz. : John Logan, born October 
4, 1853, died December 25, 1881 ; Anna (wife of 
William White, of Chartiers township), born in 
1855; George, living in Chartiers township, born 
December 28, 1857; William, living in Chartiers 
township, born in 1859, and Elizabeth, born April 
26, 1861, her home being with Arnold Bros., Char- 
tiers). Sarah, born in March, 1828, married to 
William Harsha, who first settled in Ohio, then in 
McLean county, 111., where he died in 1872, leav- 
ing a widow and the following children: William 
H. (married and living in Missouri), Maggie, Liz- 
zie, Jennie, Hattie, Simon, Samuel Farley, Wilson, 
Joseph and James. Elizabeth, born February 
12, 1831, wife of Samuel Farley (she died in Feb- 
ruary, 1864, leaving three children: James, living 
at Bosfon, Penn. ; Samuel, married to Anna Mani- 
fodd, and Elizabeth, deceased June 14, 1890, wife 
of John Manifodd). Esther Ann. born January 2( •, 
1833, wife of D. M. Stewart, of Cross Creek town- 
ship. Wilson and Joseph. 

Wilson Arnold was born July 27, 1836, on the 
home farm in Chartiers township, and received his 
education at the common schools of the neighbor- 
hood. After leaving school he began business as 
a farmer and stock raiser, which he and his 
brother Joseph have followed with signal success. 
The home farm consists of 240 acres of well- culti- 
vated land, upon which they raise large numbers 
of sheep and cattle. Politically Mr. Arnold is an 
active Democrat, and he is a member of the United 
Presbyterian Church at Houstonville. 

Joseph Aenold was born March 28, 1838, in 
Chartiers township, Washington Co., Penn., on 
the home place, where he grew to manhood. On 
June 1, 1864, he was married to Maria Stewart, of 



788 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Cross Creek township, this county, who bore him 
three children, namely: J. F. (living in Chartiers 
township), born April 6, 1866; Sadie, born Novem- 
ber 29, 1867, drowned February 10, 1880; and 
Simon, born July 29, 1870. The mother of these 
children died December 26, 1872, and on April 29, 
1875, Mr. Arnold married Miss Mary L. Black, of 
Canonsburg, this county, born October 2, 1817. 
She is a daughter of John E. Black, who was born, 
in lS14,in Allegheny county, Penn., and in 1840 was 
united in marriage with Alice Hanson, a native of 
Cecil township, this county, born in 1818. After 
their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Black settled in 
Canonsburg, this county, where he became a prom- 
inent and successful merchant. He was treasurer 
of Washington and Jefferson College for some 
time, and during his later years carried on a bank- 
ing business at Canonsburg. He voted with the 
Republican party, and in religious faith was a 
member and ruling elder of the Associate Reformed 
Church in Canonsburg. He died in December 
1868; his widow is yet living in the town. 

Joseph and Mary (Black) Arnold began married 
life on the farm where he is yet living, which he 
and his brother, Wilsou, had conducted for several 
years prior to the marriage of Joseph, doing a 
profitable business in sheep raising. Mr. and Mrs. 
Arnold have had the following children: Kate, 
born June 11, 1878; Joseph, born August 21, 
1882, died at the age of three weeks; one deceased 
in infancy; James, born July 21, 1884, and 
Joseph J., born December 9, 1885. In politics 
Mr. Arnold is an active member of the Democratic- 
party. He and his wife are members of the 
United Presbyterian Church at Houstonville. 



he purchased first the half and later the entire in- 
terest in his present drug store in the borough. Mr. 
McMillan is a registered pharmacist (1887). and 
his store is equipped with everything essential to a 
first-class prescription establishment and general 
drug business. In 1879 our subject was united in 
marriage with Miss Kate E. Jones, daughter of 
William McK. Jones, a farmer of the county, of 
Somerset township, now of Monongahela City. 
Three children have blessed this union, viz. : Bes- 
sie Ula, Ariel Vivene and John Adrian, all at home. 
The family are members of the M. E. Church. Mr. 
McMillan is a member of the F. & A. M. ; in pol- 
itics he is a Democrat. 



JOHN K. McMILLAN was bom December 10, 
1 S 5'J, in Fallowfield township, Washington 
Co., Penn., a sou of Robert McMillan, a 
native of this county, whose father was a 
farmer by occupation. Robert was married to 
Elizabeth Bennett, and nine children were born to 
them, of whom the following is a brief record: 
Leauder is deceased; Harvey lives in Pittsburgh: 
Mary is the wife of Jacob Gibson, of Fallowfield 
township; Amanda is the deceased wife of Smith 
Carson, who also lives in Fallowfield; Anna Louisa 
died in infancy; Cynthia, Robert, Jr., and Jennie 
H. reside at home; John K. is the subject of this 
memoir. The mother died in 1867. 

John K. McMillan was reared on his father's 
farm, and received his elementary education in the 
common schools of his native township, which was 
supplemented with a course at the Southwestern 
State Normal School, California, Penn., and at 
Duff's Business College. Pittsburgh, class of 1877- 
78. He then came to Washington, and for a time 
carried on an insurance business. In 1881 



I 



JOHN MEHAFFEY, the largest landholder 
in Donegal township, and one of the most 
extensive in Washington county, is descended 
from a vigorous Scotch-Irish race, noted for 
their honesty, industry, energy and loyalty. 
Robert Mehaffey, a native of Ireland, born in 
1772 in County Tyrone, set sail about the year 
1800 for the Western Hemisphere, landing at New 
York after a lengthy voyage. From "Gotham" 
he proceeded to Lancaster county, Penn., where 
for some time he rented and worked a farm. Here 
in 1801 he married Eleanor Mitchell, who bore 
him the following named eight children: James, 
Joseph, Robert, Mitchell, Jane, John, Ellen and 
Lizzie, all of whom lived to an adult age except 
Lizzie, who died in infancy, and two are yet living, 
viz. : Jane (wife of Patrick Rodgers, of Donegal 
township) and John. About the year 1816 Robert 
Mehaffey moved from Lancaster to this county, 
where he leased the McDowell farm in Buffalo 
township, along the National pike, and here re- 
mained some years, after which he came to Done- 
gal township, settling on a farm about four miles 
northwest of Claysville. Here he followed agri- 
cultural pursuits during the remainder of his busy 
life, dying July 22, 1824, aged fifty-two years; his 
widow continued to live on this farm (it being op- 
erated by her sons) until her death, which occurred 
September 9, 1846, when she was sixty- six ye;irs old. 
John Mehaffey is a native of the county, as has 
already been intimated, having been born January 
11, 1821, in Douegal township, his education, 
which owing to circumstances was very limited, 
being obtained at the public schools of his locality. 
He was but three years old when his father died, 
so, his widowed mother requiring all the assistance 
on the farm she could muster, he began very early 
in life to work about the place, " doing chore-," 
etc. But it was a sound, practical training that 
proved of invaluable service to him in after life — 
an education that brought him wealth that no clas- 
sic lore of ancient Rome or Athens could ever help 
him to, as a tiller of the soil. Farming has been 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



791 



his life-work from boyhood, and fortune has smiled 
upon his labors. By good management, sound 
judgment, indefatigable perseverance and wonder- 
ful sagacity he has accumulated possessions, until 
he is now the owner of over 1,000 acres of prime 
farm land, on which he has many tenants, and 
whereon browse his sheep, numbering in the hun- 
dreds, for Mr. Mehaffey, in addition to general 
farming, is extensively engaged in wool growing. 
He himself now does little or no real active farm 
work, as the management of his vast estate, to- 
gether with his other business affairs, occupies 
about all his time. 

On March 31, 1859, Mr. Mehaffey was married 
to Sarah Jane Barr, who was born in Buffalo 
township, this county, March 6, 1834, a daughter 
of Robert Barr; she died September 4, 1804, leav- 
ing one child, Eleanor, an accomplished and re- 
fined young lady, still living with her father. His 
second wife, whom he wedded November --. I Mill. 
was Elizabeth Sawhill, also a native of Buffalo 
township, born November 29, 1830, who bore him 
one son, William J., a promising young man. Mr. 
Mehaffey, after his marriage with Miss Barr, lived 
in various parts of his native township up to 1870, 
in which year he located on his present piece of 
well-improved land lying four miles northwest of 
Claysville, and here he has since made his home. 
His residence, which he erected himself, stands on 
an elevated part of the grounds, and commands a 
fine view of the surrounding country. Prior to his 
first marriage he had followed farming on the old 
homestead, the ptlace of his birth. 

Mr. and Mrs. Mehaffey are consistent members 
of the Presbyterian Church at Claysville, and they 
are known and respected, far and wide, for their 
philanthropy and many charitable acts. In his 
political associations our subject was first a Whig, 
and since the organization of the party has been 
an equally zealous Republican. He believes in 
protection for American industries and workmen. 
Much of his attention has been devoted to the wool 
industry, which he believes to be dependent upon 
a protective tariff. Mr. Mehaffey is a man of pro- 
nounced views, genial and quiet and pleasant in 
his manner; and though now somewhat advanced 
in years, he is still hale and active. He and his 
family enjoy the respect and esteem of a wide cir- 
cle of friends and acquaintances. 




O. STEVENSON. The first ancestor of 
this gentleman, of whom we have authen- 
tic record, was Richard Stevenson, of 
Berkeley county, Va. (uowW. Va.), where 
he was born and Seared. 
Richard Stevenson was married in early man- 
hood to Mrs Onora Crawford (widow of Hugh 
Crawford, an old Indian trader, by whom she had 



two sons, William and Valentine). William Craw- 
ford was colonel of the Fifth Virginia Regulars, 
commissioned in 1781. The circumstances of his 
death, which occurred June 11, 1782, in Sandusky, 
Ohio, are recorded in nearly every U. S. history. 
He was burned at the stake by Indians (who had 
captured him) for the evident purpose of wreaking 
vengeance on their victim in return for the historic 
massacre at Gnadenhutten, Tuscarawas Co., Ohio, 
many Indians having been there slaughtered by 
the whites. At the time of his capture Col. Craw- 
ford was conducting a campaign against the 
Wyandotts and Moravian tribes. To the union of 
Richard and Onora (Crawford) Stevenson children 
were born as follows: John, Hugh, Richard, 
James, Marcus and one daughter. Mrs. Steven- 
son possessed great physical strength, and was a 
kind and affectionate mother; she died in 1776. 
Gen. George Washington was a frequent visitor at 
this home, often taking part in athletic contests 
with the sons. The early friendship ripened with 
the passing years, and when Gen. AYashington rose 
to prominence in military life, James Stevenson 
was yet his dearest friend and constant companion. 
James Stevenson, son of Richard, was born and 
reared on his father's farm in Berkeley county (W. 
Va.), where he was united in marriage with Rachel 
McKeever; their children were Moses, William, 
Mary, Theodosia, James and Sarah. In 1781 Mr. 
Stevenson concluded to take advantage of the 
cheap lands then open in western Pennsylvania. 
He was then in the prime of life, and a splendid 
specimen of physical manhood. In company with 
a negro slave named Fortune (who had been the 
property of George Washington, from whom Mr. 
Stevenson purchased him), he started on foot on a 
journey of exploration, leaving his family at home, 
not wishing them to undergo the perils of such a 
hazardous expedition. The two men arrived safely 
in Washington county, Penn., and Mr. Stevenson 
took up a "tomahawk claim" of 500 acres of 
choice land, four miles southeast of Burgetts- 
town, Smith township. A humble cabin was 
soon erected, some rude improvements made, and 
a crop of corn planted. The negro previously 
mentioned was then left to manage the place, and 
Mr. Stevenson then returned to West Virginia, the 
negro subsisting on game and roots during his ab- 
sence. The entire family were located in their 
pioneer home, which was afterward supplanted by 
a larger log cabin. Mrs. Stevenson died Decem- 
ber 14, 1789, and for his second wife Mr. Steven- 
son married Martha Barr, the following children 
being born to their union: Benjamin, Richard, 
Joseph, Achsah and John. The land increased in 
value as civilization progressed, and at the time of 
his death Mr. Stevenson was a wealthy man. He 
died in 1813, being followed by his wife in 1810. 
William Stevenson, born January 24, 1771, was a 



792 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



son of James and Rachel (McKeevers) Stevenson, 
and the grandfather of W. 0. Stevenson. He 
was married to Margaret Crawford, and they 
reared a family of ten children. Their father 
diedMaroh 1. 1851, their mother May 11, 1819. 
Oliver Stevenson, their son, was born in 1801 in 
Smith township, on his father's farm, and received 
his elementary education at the country schools. 
On January 12, 1826, he was united in marriage 
with Sarah Curry, who was born in 18(13. daughter 
of Itobert Curry, a cooper by trade, and a native 
of Scotland. He immigrated to Pennsylvania, 
locating in Allegheny county, near the present 
site of Allegheny, and was often obliged to flee to 
a neighboring blockhouse from the Indians. The 
children of Oliver and Sarah Stevenson were as 
follows: Margaret A., born January 15, 1827 (wife 
of J. B. Haines, a prominent wholesale merchant 
of Pittsburgh, Penn.); Isabel M.,born June 5, 1829 
(died at the age of twenty-one years); W. O., born 
May 5, 1832; R. T. C, bom August 15, 183'.). a 
citizen of Burgettstown, Penn.; Sarah Juliet, born 
August 15, 18-43 (died in youth); and Oliver M. , 
born December 5, 1S4S, died in infancy. Mr. and 
Mrs. Stevenson first settled on a farm in Smith 
township, and afterward moved to the farm where 
the remainder of their lives was passed. At the 
time of his death Oliver Stevenson was quite an ex- 
tensive landowner. In politics he was much inter- 
ested in the success of the Democratic party, with 
which he was connected. He died in 1854, his 
widow on June IS, 1885, aged eighty-three years. 
W. O. Stevenson was born on the home farm 
in Smith township, where he is now living. On 
March 2, 1869, he was married to Ophelia Ann 
Walker, who was born September 21, 1S47, in 
Jefferson township, this county, daughter of Sam 
uel and Elizabeth (Jerome) Walker. They have 
had three children, namely: Sarah L. (deceased in 
infancy), Maggie B. (at home), and Nellie Ophelia. 
Mr. and Mrs. Steveuson have always lived on the 
home farm, which consists of 160 acres of valuable 
land, lying four miles south of Burgettstown. He 
has successfully followed agricultural pursuits; in 
politics he is a lifelong Democrat. 



IfOHN B. WEIR. In the galaxy of names of 
1 the influential citizens of Washington bor- 
t | ough, that of John B. Weir ranks with the 
^^ first. He is a descendant of Scotch-Irish an- 
cestors, to which two races many of the most 
intelligent and enterprising citizens are proud to 
trace their lineage. In the latter part of the 
eighteenth century three brothers first landed on 
American soil, whose descendants are numbered 
among the leading families of the Eastern States: 
Adam, William and Samuel Weir (with his wife) 
crossed the ocean together, and soon after their 



arrival in the United States settled near the head of 
Chartiers creek. The families of Adam and Will- 
iam in after years pushed farther westward, their 
descendants being scattered throughout Ipwa and 
the neighboring States. 

Samuel Weir, the grandfather of John B., made 
a permanent settlement on a farm in Washington 
county, Penn., where he followed agricultural pur- 
suits and distilling, the latter industry being then 
a common occupation; and not many years ago one 
could count, from a neighboring hill on his pioneer 
farm, the smoke from fifteen distilleries, all in 
operation. Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Weir were the 
parents of the following children: Joseph, Adam, 
Thomas, Polly (married to Thomas Axtell, of this 
county, and leaving descendants in Solsberry, 
Ind. ), Jane (deceased wife of John Buck, a stage 
driver on the National road, who settled in Ohio, 
where her descendants are living). Rachel Ide- 
ceased), Sarah (widow of Charles Rettig, in Am- 
well township) and Mrs. Deaver (of Hillsborough, 
this, county). Samuel Weir was a Democrat in 
politics. He died many years ago, and his widow 
afterward married George Ivingland. She died in 
the year 1847, at an advanced age. 

Joseph Weir, a son of Samuel, was born in 
Franklin township, on the farm now owned by 
Stephen Post. He was married to Jemima 
Squires, a native of Morris township. (The Squireses 
were among the pioneer settlers of Franklin town- 
ship, now scattered, some of the members having 
moved to Ohio). The young couple settled on the 
farm in Franklin 'township which is still in the 
possession of their descendants. Their children 
were as follows: Samuel C. (died at the age of 
sixty-one years, leaving two sons, who are residents 
of this county), William L. (died at the age of 
thirty-three), Elizabeth (Mrs. Post), Jane, George 
and Joseph (all three died in infancy) and 
John B. (subject of this sketch). The mother of 
these children died in 1842, at the age of forty- 
two years, and in 1844 Mr. Weir married Mrs. 
Phcebe Hanna, of Carrollton, Ohio, to whom two 
children were born, namely: Morris (living near 
Washington) and Margaret (wife of John M. Day, 
of Franklin township). Mr. Weir was an active 
member of the Democratic party. He served one 
term as director of the poor, ami filled various 
township offices. He was school director for many 
years, also supervisor, and was twice elected jus- 
tice of the peace. He was familiarly known as 
"Uncle Joe" among his friends, being a genial and 
popular man. He followed farming, but devoted 

his attention to raising si \>. being so fond of 

these animals that he would neither kill one nor 
eat its flesh. He shipped the wool one year to 
Lowell, Mass., and received the highest price paid 
for fleeces in the entire county. Joseph Weir 
was a regular attendant and supporter of the 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



793 



Cumberland Presbyterian Church. He was a man 
of strong convictions, one who never swerved from 
anv duty which lay before him, and a perfect speci- 
men of physical manhood. Though far advanced 
in years, his death was an unexpected blow to 
all. He was salting the sheep one morning, and, 
failing to return to the house, was found dead in 
the pasture. The medical authorities gave a ver- 
dict of heart failure, but his son John is of the 
opinion that the old gentleman, being crip] >led by 
sciatica, tripped in the deep grass over the salt 
pail, and could not regain his breath. Joseph 
Weir died in 1867, at the age of seventy-one 
years, being followed by his widow in 1881. 

John B. Weir was born in 1837, in Franklin 
(then Morris) township, and received his early 
education in the common schools. He attended 
Waynesburg College, and finally graduated at 
Duff's Business College, at Pittsburgh. He after- 
ward taught a term of school, later going to Van- 
Buren, where he sold goods for his uncle (Adam 
Weir), and in the summer of 1865 began business 
for himself. In this he continued three years, 
then finding his health failing, retired to a farm in 
Morris township, this county, where he remained 
fifteen years. In 1804 he married Miss Julia Bane, 
granddaughter of Benjamin Lindley, a pioneer 
settler of Washington county. To them four 
children were born: Mary J. (wife of W. E. 
Baldwin, of Franklin township), Ida M. (studying 
for a professional nurse, at the Homoeopathic 
Hospital, Pittsburgh, Penn.), Chester and Annie 
(living with their parents). The mother died in 
January, 1886, and in 1887 Mr. Weir married 
Mrs. Mattie Burgan, daughter of Jacob Braden, of, 
Edgar county, 111., and widow of Langdon Bur- 
gan, by whom she had two children: James (a 
telegraph operator at Terre Haute, Ind. ) and 
Mollie (wife of Rev. W. F. Schrontz, of New 
York). No children have been born to Mr. Weir's 
last marriage. Fifteen years after settling on the 
farm in Morris township, the house of John B. 
Weir was burned. He then sold the farm, and 
moved to his present home in Washington 
borough, where he is living a retired life. His 
early years were actively employed, as a general 
farmer, giving attention to the breeding of heavy 
draft horses, having been the first to introduce the 
registered heavy draft horse brought into Wash- 
ington county in the year 1879. In politics he is 
a Democrat. The position of road commissioner 
in Morris township was filled by him for nine 
years, and he served as a constable and assessor 
several years. His business career has been most 
successful, and during the period of active life he 
settled many estates, and collected the county 
school and road taxes. He has been a member of 
the Church for twenty-five years, and is now a 



member of the Second Presbyterian Church of 
Washington. Mr. Weir is one of the most hon- 
ored citizens of Washington. 




ILLIAM ARMSTRONG, one of the oldest 
') native-born, prosperous agriculturists of 

the county, is a grandson of the veteran 

pioneer, James Armstrong. 

James Armstrong came from eastern 
Pennsylvania, the locality of his birth, to Wash- 
ington county, Penn. , several years prior to the 
close of the last century. He served as a soldier 
in the Revolution. Some time before coming here 
he had married Margaret Martin, and they with 
some of their children made the trip westward 
over the mountains, experiencing in their long and 
hazardous journey not a few hardships. They set- 
tled in Donegal township about one and one-half 
miles south of West Alexander, and erected a log 
cabin and set to work to make a clearing in the 
then unbroken forest, converting it into what is 
now a fertile and beautiful farm. Here they toiled 
from year to year, surrounded by the innumerable 
dangers incident to pioneer days, until finally 
called to their long home, the grandmother dying 
in 1838, the grandfather in 1849. The children 
born to them were as follows: Hugh (of whom 
special mention will presently be made), Mary 
(who died at the age of seventy-five years), John 
(who died in Darke county, Ohio, where he was 
an early settler), James and Joseph (both of whom 
died in Donegal township), David (who was a mil- 
ler and farmer, at Triadelphia, W. Ya., and who 
died at the age of seventy-three years), Margaret 
(married to Robert Stewart, and now deceased), 
Martin (a farmer of West Finley township, now 
deceased), Samuel (who died in Donegal township, 
leaving several children), and William (who died 
in childhood). 

Hugh Armstrong was born in eastern Pennsyl- 
vania, and came with his parents to Washington 
county as above stated. He learned blacksmith - 
ing, a trade he followed for some time, and then 
began farming, which he carried on during the 
rest of his life. In 1816 he was married to Jane 
McCoy, a native of Finley township (since divided 
into East and West Finley townships), and to this 
union were born children as follows: Margaret, 
William, James (who moved to Missouri and there 
died), Isabella (Mrs. John M. Oldham, now living 
in Jefferson City, Mo.), John (who died in West 
Union, Marshall Co., W. Va. ), Thomas, Martin 
and Jane (all three deceased when aged thirteen, 
four and three years, respectively), and David 
(who was a farmer in West Finley township, and 
died in February, 1892). The mother of this 
family dying in 1847, Mr. Armstrong married, for 



794 



WASHING TON CO UN T Y. 



his second wife, Elizabeth McCoy, who died in 
L 850, without issue. After his first marriage Mr. 
Armstrong made a settlement in the northwest 
• corner of West Fiuley township, near the West 
Virginia line, where he carried on farming. He 
was called from earth in 1854, having lived a life of 
honest industry which brought him 'well-merited 
success. He was an elder in the Presbyterian 
Church, and, in politics, was tirst a Whig, after- 
ward a Republican, and served for many years as 
a justice of the peace. 

William Armstrong, whose nameappears at the 
opening of this sketch, was born December 9, 
1819, in what is now West Finley township, 
Washington Co., Penn., where he was reared to 
agricultural pursuits on his father's farm, his edu- 
cation being received at the subscription schools 
of the locality. In 1851 he was married to Mary 
M. Oldham, who was born in 1828, in Ohio 
county, W. Va., a daughter of Samuel and Rebecca 
(Wylie) Oldham, of that county, and to this union 
the following named children were born: Jennie 
(now wife of John C. Hamilton, of Donegal town- 
ship), a son that died in infancy (unnamed). Lina 
(Mrs. W. F. Whitham). Milton B. (a farmer in 
Donegal township), Lizzie B. and William W. 
(both at home), Frank E. (who graduated from 
Washington and Jefferson College, and afterward 
attended the Western Theological Seminary at 
Allegheny, and the Union Seminary at New York; 
he is now a Presbyterian minister at Evanston, 
Wyo.), Celestine (a school teacher, living at home), 
Samuel O. (a farmer in West Finley township) 
and Irene M. (a college graduate, now teach- 
ing school, her home being with her parents). 
Mr. Armstrong in his younger days taught school, 
and after his marriage commenced agricultural 
pursuits on the old home farm in West Finley 
township, remaining there until 186(3, in which 
year he came to Donegal township, settling on his 
present farm, situated about one and one-half 
miles south of West Alexander, and on which he 
has erected a neat and commodious residence. He 
and his wife are devout members of the Presby 
terian Church at West Alexander; in his political 
preferences he is a lifelong Republican, and has 
served his township as school director for several 
years. The family are highly respected in the com- 
munity, and are all well-to-do, Mr. Armstrong him- 
self having made his life-work an eminent success. 



HOMAS H. BRUCE, an enterprising citizen 
of Buffalo township is a son of Henry, 
and grandson of George Bruce, who was 
born in Scone, Perthshire, Scotland, and 
never left the country of his birth. George 
Bruce followed the vocation of a weaver, and dur- 
ing the latter part of his life had charge of the 



Forestry in his native heath. His wife was for- 
merly Helen Norwell, who bore him the follow- 
ing children, all of whom are now deceased: 
Robert, Agnes, Janet, Lillie, David, Margaret and 
Henry. Of these children, Robert and Henry im- 
migrated to America. Robert located in Pitts- 
burgh, Penn., and subsequently became president 
of the Western University of Pennsylvania. His 
descendants are now living In Pittsburgh. 

Henry Bruce was born in 1788, in the parish of 
Scone, Scotland, and there grew to manhood, re- 
ceiving a common-school education, and learning 
the weaver'-s trade. He (as previously stated) 
afterward sailed to America, and rirst landed 'in 
New York, but immediately pushed westward, 
making a permanent location near Taylorstown, 
Buffalo township, Washington Co., Penn. He 
was then married to Elizabeth, daughter of Thomas 
Brownlee, and to them were born children as fol- 
lows: Henry (deceased in youth), Lizzie and Helen 
(both of whom grew to womanhood, but are now 
deceased), and Thomas H. Soon after his mar- 
riage, Mr. Bruce located on the farm now owned 
by his son, which is situated in Buffalo township, 
on the National pike, cultivated the land and also 
conducted a store. On his arrival in Washington 
county, Henry Bruce had scarcely any capital, and 
his later success was due wholly to his own efforts. 
He was an active and consistent member of the 1". 
P. Church, to which he gave a liberal support. 
In political life he was a follower of the Free Soil 
party while it existed, and afterward became a 
Republican. He departed this life in 1862, his re- 
mains being interred in Washington cemetery, 
His widow followed him in 18S7. 



JOHN R. LEONARD, one of the best known 
i and most prominent citizens of the borough 
rjl of Washington, is a native of the county, 
^^ having been born in Morris township, De- 
cember 7, 1821. He is of Teutonic descent, his 
great-grandfather, John Leonard, having come 
from Germany to America many years ago. John 
Leonard, grandfather of John R. , was born in 
Ohio, where he married Nancy Huffman, of Wash- 
ington county, Penn., anil one of their sons, John, 
became the father of John R. Leonard, the subjeci 
of this sketch. Grandfather Leonard died in Ohio. 

John Leonard, son of John and Nancy (Huffman) 
Leonard, was born in Washington county, Penn., 
where he was reared and educated. He settled in 
Monis township, and here married Rebecca, a 
daughter of John Robertson, of same township. 
and ten children were born to them, as follows: 
Jesse, killed at Chattanooga, Tenn., during the 
war of the Rebellion; John R. ; Ann, deceased wile 
of Jackson Delong; Abigail, married to Je9se De- 
long, and died in Ohio; Elizabeth, deceased wife 







r 




■it 



y<?¥£?z <^?X^c^ ■aotHL/ 



\ 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



797 



of Conrad Maloy; Emeline, who died at the age of 
four years; Benjamin F. and James W. , both in 
Noble county, Ohio; Sarah, wife of Aaron Deloug, 
in Portage county, Ohio; and Margaret, widow of 
James E. Ray, of Greene county, Penn. After 
marriage Mr. and Mrs. Leonard remained in Mor- 
ris township a year or two. and then moved to Ohio, 
where they died, the mother in 1871, at the age of 
seventy-three years, and the father in 1872, aged 
seventy-seven years; he had been a soldier in the 
war of 1812. 

John It. Leonard, whose name opens this memoir, 
was but an infant when his parents moved to Ohio, 
where, in Warren and Trumbull counties he learned 
the trade of a carpenter, at which he worked some 
fortv -sis years. On July 5, 1845, he returned to 
Washington county, Penn., and settled on a farm 
in Morris township, which he operated, at the same 
time carrying on his trade. He built many of the 
best houses in that and East Finley townships, be- 
sides some in Greene county, on the boundary line. 
On January 22, 1846, Mr. Leonard married Miss 
Matilda, daughter of Stacy Farabee, of Morris 
township, and two children were born to them, 
both of whom died in childhood, the one at the age 
of tive years, and the other at the age of six months. 
Mrs. Leonard was called from earth June 3, 1891, 
and March 16, 1892, Mr. Leonard was united in 
wedlock with Mrs. Henrietta Farabee, widow of 
Benjamin Farabee (deceased in November, 1884), 
by whom she had three children, as follows: Laura 
Belle, who was twice married, first to Simeon 
Clarke, and after his death to William Chambers; 
John Franklin and Homer. Mrs. Leonard was 
born in Allegany county, Md., a daughter of 
Aaron and Rachel (Coleman) Hixenbaugh. She 
is a member of the Methodist Protestant Church. 

On September 22, 1809, Mr. Leonard came to 
Washington borough, taking up his residence in 
the house where he is yet living, and which he had 
built. Here he continued at his trade until his 
final retirement, doing a great deal of contract 
work, besides building some eight houses for him- 
self in various parts of the borough. In 1847 he 
joined the M. E. Church, Mt. Zion, but a few 
years ago he identified himself with the Methodist 
Protestant Church, of which he is now trustee, 
class-leader, assistant superintendent of Sunday- 
school, and a teacher of the Bible class. At the time 
of his joining Mt. Zion Church, there were forty- 
five members, and when he visited it last winter he 
found he was the only one living of those forty-five. 
Politically he is a lifelong Democrat. Mr. Leonard 
is a typical self-made man, having risen by sheer 
industry, perseverance and economy, from compar- 
ative poverty to a condition of enviable affluence, 
and is highly respected in the community in which 
he lives, now enjoying the income of his hard- 
earned competence. 

38 




ILLIAM ALLISON CONKLIN. The 

history of the development of any new 
country affords interesting illustrations 
of zeal and rigid determination, so essen- 
tial to the successful prosecution of a difficult 
undertaking. 

Of this Captain John Conklin, one of the old 
pioneers of Washington county, presents a striking 
example, and his numerous descendants of the 
present day possess the same characteristics in no 
small degree. Capt. John Conklin was born in 
Morris county, N. J., September 30, 1703. In 
1784 he married Elizabeth Mills, a native of the 
same county, who was born March 29, 1760. In 
November, 1790. with his wife and three daughters, 
he started for Washington county. It is hard to 
realize the difficulties of that journey by wagon. 
The route was a very hilly one, the grading steep, 
rendering it necessary to make frequent stops in 
ascending a hill, in order that the team might rest. 
These rests necessitated the services of " a blocker " 
to follow the wagon, and place a block behind a 
wheel when a stop was made. This duty devolved 
upon Mrs. Conklin. In many instances, to render 
this assistance she left the youngest child at the foot 
of the hill, and the wagon having reached the sum- 
mit, she would return and carry the child. Arriv- 
ing at the glades in the mountains, they were com- 
pelled to stop three or four mouths on account of 
Mrs. Conklin' s illness. Then, renewing their 
journey, with their four children, on horseback, 
and leaving all behind except what clothing they 
could carry on two horses, they arrived in Wash- 
ington county in May or June, 1791. Capt. Conk- 
lin purchased 440 acres of land, near Sparta, on 
the south fork of the north branch of Ten-Mile 
creek, the present property of W. A. Conklin. 
Here he devoted his energy to the improvement of 
the place, which was made to yield a good income. 
Capt. Conklin died July 12, 1824, having given to 
the country a family of twelve children — eight 
daughters and four sons — all of whom married, 
forming twelve families of eighty- four children; 
sixty-six of the grandchildren married, all but 
about seven having families, some very large ones. 
The eldest son, John, grew up, always having 
close friends. He married, in 1820, Jane Andrew, 
a quiet, kind and loving wife and mother. Two 
years after he moved west to a quarter section of 
laud, given to him by his mother, on the west 
bank of Little Darby creek, now opposite West Jef- 
ferson, Madison Co. , Ohio. Here he lived until 
his death, October 26, 1873. He reared a family, 
and lived to see four out of seven children married 
well. John was a great hunter, and was soon 
known for hundreds of miles around by that class 
of people through the wilderness of central Ohio. 
All strangers or friends were so cordially wel- 
comed by him that they soon were his loving 



798 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



friends. As soon as his visitors rested, John 
would order his best team and rig, suitable for 
the occasion, and rations for each, and off they 
would go, until all parties were satisfied. 

Two years after her husband's death, Mrs. 
(Jonkliu married Caleb Lindley. Mr. Lindley lived 
about ten years, and the widow returned to the old 
homestead, and lived with her son William, hardly 
knowing what sickness was, until she died sud- 
denly August 1(3, 1852. 

William Gonklin, born July 4, 1810, was the 
youngest of this family of twelve children. He 
remained with his father until the latter's death. 
Then, being fourteen years of age, he was bound 
to John Griffith to learn the shoemaker's trade. 
Having served his term, he worked as a journey- 
man shoemaker at different places in Ohio, until 
1835, when he returned and settled on his farm in 
Washington county, where he dwelt until his 
death, June 25, 1880 (he died within a few feet 
of the log cabin where he was born), in a brick 
mansion, built in 1862. He was a farmer. As a 
justice of the pease, for ten years he filled the office 
with credit to himself and satisfaction to the 
people. On March 2, 1838, he married Catherine, 
born May 16, 1818, a daughter of Jacob and Abi- 
gail Ross, of Greene county. Jacob was one of 
the prominent drovers of the time and section. 
Jacob Ross' parents, John and Elizabeth Ross, 
were the first owners of the tract of land on Ruff's 
creek, near Jefferson, Greene county. John died 
in 1813, and was buried on the farm, there being 
no graveyard. He owned slaves, and frequently 
had serious trouble with the Indians. Jacob Ross, 
her father, donated the land for the first grave- 
yard, and lot 'for the first church (Baptist) that 
was built in that section of the country. It still 
stands, enclosed with the old stone wall. Timothy 
and Rachel Ross settled on a tract four miles west. 
(John and Timothy were no relation, but of the 
same name). On this farm the Indians found a 
man and his two sons clearing a lot for corn. 
They shot and scalped two of them, one son escap- 
ing to the fort. This was the last murder by the 
Indians in that section. Timothy Ross died on 
one of his farms, near Shinstown, Monongalia 
Co.. W. Va., aged eighty-five years. Mr. Ross 
was one of the first Campbellites in this part of 
tin' country. He often rode his big sorrel horse, 
"Mose," to Bethany, Brooke Co., W. Va., to hear 
Elder Alexander Campbell preach. Elizabeth Ross 
died at the home of her son William, in Ohio, in 
1834, aged almost one hundred years. Jacob Ross 
died in 1856. Abigail Ross, Catharine's mother, 
died July 2, 1881. With remarkable eyesight 
and strength, she was out overseeing her farms in 
Richhill township, Greene Co., up to a few days 
before her death. 

To William and Catharine Conklin nine chil- 



dren were born: Phebe Jane, born December 2, 
1838, married, April 2, 1868, to Cephas Meek (he 
died on his farm on Ruff's creek in Greene Co. , 
leaving a widow and one son); William Allison is 
the subject proper of this sketch; Benjamin Frank- 
lin, born September 12, 1841, taught school for sev- 
eral terms, read medicine, attended Jefferson Med- 
ical College, Philadelphia, and the following winter 
graduated from the Western Reserve Medical 
College, Cleveland (he settled in Fayette City, 
Penn., and in 1871 married Millie J. Kelley, of 
Salem, Ohio. He was the father of one child, now 
the wife of Guy W. Boudinot, of Cleveland, Ohio. 
He practiced medicine until his death, January 18, 
1873. He was one of the most prominent and 
successful physicians in the Monongahela Valley). 
Thomas H. Benton, born May 25, 1844, died June 
1, 1845; Cinderella, born March 27, 1847, married 
Noah D. Sowers, February 17, 1881, and resides 
in Vermilion county, 111. ; Gleason P., born March 
29, 1849, married, January 1, 1879, to Victorine 
Wilson, daughter of James Wilson, of Franklin 
township (they reside near West Union, Greene 
Co., and are the parents of six children); one who 
died in infancy; Ophelia Belle, born February (>, 
1853, married, in 1875, to Ross McClain (they reside 
in Greene county. She is the mother of seven 
children, all living); Catharine Ivagenia, born 
July 4, 1856, married March 7, 1888, to George E. 
Mann (they reside in Vermilion county, 111. She 
is the mother of one child, Chloe); RossM., born 
August 4, 1861, received a common-school educa- 
tion, attended college a number of terms, and 
graduated at Duff's Commercial College, Pitts- 
burgh (he went to McPherson, Kans., in 1884, 
where he taught school four years, and married 
Madeline Burwell, of McPherson, May 28, 1888. 
Shortly after they moved to Oregon, where he lias 
been principal of the Roseburg College ever since, 
and in which his wife is an instructor). 

William Allison Conklin, born March 28, 1840, 
received a common-school education, and taught a 
number of terms. He attended a commercial 
college, and then chose a farmer's life. He has 
always been a hard worker, and is possessed of 
more than ordinary intellect and culture. A 
genial disposition, which is only found in those 
who are temperate, characterizes him. He never 
uses strong drinks or tobacco; never has been 
known to swear an oath under the most trying 
circumstances; has always been kind to the poor, 
true to his word and firm for his rights. His 
widowed mother, kind, gentle and affectionate, 
lives with him on the old place, which has been 
handed down from father to son for three gener- 
ations. He has been a member of the M. E. 
Church for over twenty years, and has served as 
superintendent of Sunday-school, steward and trus- 
tee. He is a Democrat, who seeks not office, but is 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



799 



always found working for the man best fitted for 
the office. No one rejoiced more heartily than he 
did over the results of the elections of November 
8, 1892. 




WILLIAM W. JACKMAN, one of the old- 
est citizens of East Pike Run township, 
is a native of the same, having been born 
December 10, 1814. He is a son of Will- 
iam Jackman, whose father was Robert 
Jackman, a native of Ireland. 

Robert Jackman came, when a young man, to 
America with three brothers, and located in Wash 
ington county. ■ In March, 1784, he obtained from 
the Pennsylvania land office a warrant for the 
land now the sites of the towns of California and 
Coal Centre, on the waters of Pike run. These 
tracts were surveyed and enrolled in Patent Book 
No. 15, page 255. The tract on the east side of 
the creek was called "Allybar," and that- on 
the west side, "Ararat." Robert married Sarah 
Whittiker, and afterward Ann Dixon. Of his nine 
children, two were born to the first wife and seven 
to the last wife. They are named as follows: 
Robert (born May 16, 1772), Henry (born August 
7, 1774, married Sarah Sphar), Ruth (born May 
7, 1779, married William Gregg), Sarah (born May 
15, 1781, married Joseph Nealan), Samuel (born 
February 8, 1784), William (born January 4, 
1780, married Nancy Steele), Dixon (born April 
5, 1789, married Elizabeth Phillips), John (born 
January 5, 1792, married Miss Stockdale), James 
A. (born September 1, 1794). Many members of 
this family finally settled in Indiana, Illinois and 
Iowa. The father died in Washington county, and 
was buried in the cemetery at California. 

William Jackman was married to a daughter of 
William Steele, and she bore him one son, Will- 
iam. For his second wife Mr. Jackman selected 
Ann Wilkins, a native of Washington county, and 
they had two children: Ann (wife of William 
Reeder) and William W. The father followed 
farming all his life until drowned in the Mononga- 
hela river. 

William W. Jackman received a limited educa- 
tion in the subscription schools of the home neigh- 
borhood, then at the juvenile age of twelve years 
began life for himself. He worked at various oc- 
cupations, and at the age of eighteen took a boat- 
load of coal down the river to Maysville, Ky.; con- 
tinued in that business for several years, also act- 
ing as pilot for boats to Louisville, Ky. In 1839 
he was married to Ruth, daughter of William Mor 
gan, one child having been born to their union, 
Louisa, wife of Alexander Carlisle. The mother 
died a short time after the birth of this daughter. 
For his second wife William W. Jackman married 
Eliza Jane, daughter of William Miller, a resident 



of Greene county. To this union nine children 
were born as follows: Leroy, Dora, Arabella, 
Lena (deceased wife of Charles Minehart), Albert, 
William E., Calvin, Santford and Louis S. Of 
these, Leroy, William E. and Louis S. are living. 
After laying out the town of California, and before 
the lots were sold, William W. Jackman joined the 
advance army of "Argonauts" from "the States" 
in " '49" for the Sacramento Valley, Cal., for which 
the Pennsylvania town was named. In 1849 Mr. 
Jackman, in company with Job Johnson, Abraui 
Fry, George Hornback, Samuel Ashmade and John 
Woods, purchased 311 acres in East Pike Run 
township, laid out the town of California, and di- 
vided the upland tract among themselves, the 
share of Mr. Jackman being fifty acres. He has 
been a Whig and Abolitionist in politics, and is 
deeply interested in educational progress, having 
been a prime mover in the Southwestern State 
Normal School at California, to which he has con- 
tributed largely. 



AMUEL GEORGE is descended from an 
early pioneer family of Hibernian ancestry. 
Robert and Christiana George were natives 
of Ireland, where they were married, and 
soon afterward immigrated to America. In 1 772 
they settled on a farm in Mt. Pleasant township, 
this county, where he died many years ago. His 
widow survived him twenty years, making her 
home with her son John George, of Washington 
county. Penn. 

David George was born on the home place in Mt. 
Pleasant township. In early life he was married 
to Nancy Scott, who bore him children as follows: 
Betsey (deceased), Christy (deceased), Margaret 
(wife of John Roney), Nancy (deceased in 1888, 
wife of William Connor), Robert and Mary (twins), 
the former living in Allegheny, Penn., and Samuel 
(of whom a sketch follows). Mr. and Mrs. George 
were members of the Reformed Presbyterian 
Church in Chartiers township for many years. He 
died February 7, 1856, and his wife in 1857. 

Samuel George was born September 19, 1828, 
on the home farm in Mt. Pleasant township, re- 
ceiving his education in the district schools of the 
neighborhood. On December 24, 1866, he was 
united in marriage with Christiana, a native of Mt. 
Pleasant township, daughter of John and Jane 
(Slater) George, who were of Irish descent, and 
natives of Allegheny county, Penn., moving to Mt, 
Pleasant township, Washington county, in an early 
day. Her father died in Beaver Falls some years 
ago; her mother is yet living in Beaver Falls. 

Samuel and Christiana George settled on the 
farm where they now reside, containing 190 acres 
of excellent land. Their children are Jennie 
Slater, Annette Mary, John D. , Harrison, Lizzie, 



800 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Emma, Maggie M. and Willie L. In religious 
faith Mr. and Mrs. George are members of the 
Iteformed Presbyterian Church. 



JAMES M. CHANEY, a prosperous and well- 
known farmer, is a native of Donegal town- 
J ship, Washington Co., Penn. , and a son of 
James Chaney, whose father Abraham was 
born in Maryland, and married in his native 
State. The last named came to Washington 
county in the latter part of the eighteenth century, 
and located in Donegal township, where his family 
was reared. 

James Chaney was born on his father's farm in 
1806, and passed his boyhood in the usual farm 
duties, receiving a very meager education. He be- 
gan life at an early age, and had many hardships 
to contend with. He made rails for George Wilson, 
of West Alexander, receiving for his work '25 cents 
per hundred, which he was expected to spend at 
the store of his employer. He could get a yard of 
muslin for 25 cents, or was obliged to make 300 
rails to buy goods enough for one shirt. On 
March 25, 1831, Mr. Chaney was married to Su- 
sanna McMillan, who was born in 1805, daughter 
of John McMillan. They had the following family: 
Thornton, born December 20, 1831 (deceased 
August 1, 1880); Mary, born August 9, 1833; 
George W., born November 15, 1835 (living in 
West Alexander, Penn.); James M. , born Novem- 
ber 6, 1837; Sarah, born October 12, 1839 (de- 
ceased in 1879); John, born January 18, 1842 
(deceased in youth); and Barnet B., born March 
1, 1844 (a farmer of Donegal township). For some 
time after his marriage Mr. Chaney resided on a 
farm about two miles south of West Alexander, 
Donegal township. He afterward moved to Coon 
Island, same township, where he resided several 
years, and in 1853 purchased and moved to a farm 
about two miles north of West Alexander, where 
he lived and worked on the farm until his death. 
Mr. Chaney's success in life was wholly due to his 
own efforts. In politics he was formerly a Whig, 
and afterward a Republican. He and his wife 
were members of the Presbyterian Church at W T est 
Alexander. He died in February, 1879, having 
been preceded by his wife in 1874. 

James M. Chaney was born in Coon Island, this 
county, aud passed his early years on the home 
farm, receiving a common-school education. On 
October 13, 1862, he enlisted in Company H, 
Fourteenth Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry, and 
served till the close of the war. He took part in 
the engagements at White Sulphur Springs, Va. , 
Beverly, W. Va., Droop Mountain, Fisher's Hill, 
Cedar Creek, and numerous other minor conflicts. 
On June 5, 1865, he was honorably discharged, 
and coming home worked on his father's farm. 



On February 6, 1868, he was united in marriage 
with Pamelia, daughter of Andrew and Pamelia 
(Gilfillan) Alexander, also of Donegal township, 
and seven children were born to them: Fannie 
(wife of John Gibson, a wholesale grocer of 
Wheeling, W. Va.), Jennie (wife of Prof. John M. 
Oliver), Andrew M., James, Susanna, John H. and 
Maggie Grace, all living at home. After his mar- 
riage Mr. Chaney first located a quarter of a mile 
east of West Alexander. In 1874 he purchased 
the "Joseph Alexander" farm, situated about 
three and a half miles north of West Alexander, 
in Donegal township. He is engaged in farming 
on this place, and deals largely in stock. Polit- 
ically he is a Republican, and though he has been ' 
elected to numerous township offices, he is not a 
politician. Mr. Chaney is an enterprising and 
progressive farmer. In religious connection he 
and his wife are both members of the Presbyterian 
Church. 



t Y^ATHANIEL NEELY. In the first rank of 

VI. the intelligent and prominent farmer cit.i- 

\\ zens of Washington county stands the Bub 

J - 1 ject of this sketch. 

His grandfather, Robert Neely, was born 
in Ireland, where he learned the trade of weaver. 
He married Susan Rutherford, a native of his own 
county, and together they immigrated to the United 
States, coming to Lancaster county, Penn., where 
he engaged at farming and worked at his trade. 
Here for some years they remained, and then, in 
1800, removed to this county, taking up their resi- 
dence in Canton township, on the farm now occu- 
pied by the David McClay family, whence after a 
time they moved to Buffalo township, and finally 
settled on a farm, their first home being a log cabin, 
where they passed the rest of their busy and hon- 
orable lives. The children born to them were: 
Elizabeth (Mrs. Andrew Herron), Samuel, Mary 
(Mrs. John Jamison), and John. The father died 
in 1804, the mother ten years later. They were 
members of the North Buffalo Church (Seceders). 
of which Mr. Neely was one of the organizers, and 
in politics he was a Federalist. 

Samuel Neely, father of subject, was born in 
Lancaster county, Penn., in 1793, where his early 
boyhood was passed, and when seven years old he 
was brought by his parents to this county, where 
he received his school training. At the age of 
twenty -three he married Sarah, daughter of Na- 
thaniel McDowell, and the young couple resided on 
the Neely homestead, in Buffalo township, until 
1S43, in which year our subject purchased the 
farm now occupied by James Noble, and moved 
thereon. Here he died in 1862, the father of nine 
children: Susanna (Mrs. Robert Wright), Nathaniel 
(our subject), Robert, John, Samuel, James and 




i//adfaz444£s£< c/y^JL&s^ 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



803 



David, all of whom are deceased, the latter dying 
of measles; Sarah J. (Mrs. David McConahey), 
and Leman. Politically Samuel Neely was a 
Whig, taking an active interest in the party's 
affairs. At an early age he united with the North 
Buffalo (Seceders) Church, of which he was an 
elder for years, and assisted materially in the erec- 
tion of the present church building. 

Nathaniel Neely, whose name opens this sketch, 
was born in Buffalo township, Washington Co., 
Penn., July 16, 1822, and being the eldest boy in 
his father's family had a large share of farm work 
to perform. His education was received at the 
subscription schools of the locality, but being 
quick and apt he learned more in the practical 
school of life, and to-day he is recognized as one 
of the best-informed men in the township. On 
December 5, 1850, Mr. Neely was united in mar- 
riage with Mary C, daughter of James Irwin, of 
Canton township, this county, and their children 
are Susan (wife of James McCabe), James L., and 
Nannie (wife of Martin Rolston). The mother of 
these children dying September 7, 1862, in her 
thirty- sixth year, Mr. Neely, for his second wife, 
married, October 4, 1864, Rose W. , daughter of 
Samuel and Hannah (Way) Graham, of Buffalo 
township, by which union there is one child, Vena 
M. Samuel Graham was an early pioneer of Buf- 
falo township, coming there from Ireland about the 
year 1800. He died March 23, 1850, in his eight- 
ieth year; his wife passing from earth November 
17, 1869, in her seventy-fifth year. 

The family are members of the U. P. Church at 
Taylorstown. Mr. Neely having been one of the 
members that helped to organize the church; he 
was elected one of the elders, in which he served 
for some time and then resigned. He has given 
liberally of his means toward the support of 
churches. Politically he was originally a Whig, 
and since the formation of the party he has been a 
solid Republican. He has served as assessor of 
his township with marked ability and characteristic 
prudence. Mr. Neely is a typical self-made man, 
enterprising and prosperous, and a leading, up- 
right citizen, descended from au old honored fam- 
ily. His highly improved and well-kept farm now 
comprises 200 acres of prime land. 



DONALDSON, JACOB M. and ROBERT S. 
Among the leading families of Washington 
' county, none are more worthy of prominent 
mention in the pages of this Biographical 
Record than that of the gentlemen whose names 
open this sketch. 

Jacob Donaldson, their grandfather, was born in 
1763, in Ireland, and came to America in early 
manhood, locating in Washington county, Penn. 
He married a Miss McKinney, and first settled on 



a farm in Hopewell township, thence moving to the 
farm in Mt. Pleasant township, which is yet owned 
by his descendants. He was a member of the Se- 
ceder Church at Hickory, this county, afterward 
uniting with the U. P. Society. In April, 1850, he 
moved to the village of Hickory, where he died in 
August of the same year, having been long pre- 
ceded by his wife, who had borne him the follow- 
ing children: William (who settled in Somerset 
township, this county, where he died), James (who 
settled in Hopewell township, and died in Clays- 
ville), Richard (a tailor, of Hickory, who afterward 
bought a farm and was killed by a falling limb 
while on his way home from Noblestown), Andrew 
(who resided in Mt. Pleasant township, where he 
died), Isaac (of whom further mention is made), 
Margaret (who died in Hickory), and Mary (de- 
ceased wife of James Ackleson, of Hanover town- 
ship). 

Isaac Donaldson was born July 4, 1805, in Hope- 
well township, this county, where his boyhood was 
passed. On January 31, 1828, he was united in 
marriage with Sarah Maxwell, who was born Feb- 
ruary 18, 1808, in Hopewell township. The young 
couple resided on a farm in Mt. Pleasant township 
several years (the farm where William Donaldson 
now lives), and about 1838 moved to the farm now 
owned by their sou Jacob M. , where the remainder 
of their lives was passed. The father was a prom- 
inent farmer, and in politics voted the Democratic 
ticket, giving that party his cordial and hearty 
support. In church relations he was formerly a 
member of the Seceder Church at North Buffalo, 
later transferred his membership to the United 
Presbyterian Church, of West Middletown, and 
afterward united with the Associate Reformed 
Church at Patterson's Mills. He died November 
13, 1882, and was followed by his wife August 19, 
1883, in her seventy-fifth year. They were buried 
in the cemetery at North Buffalo, and left three 
children, all now living, to mourn their loss, viz. : 
Jacob M., Robert S. and Hannah J. (wife of David 
Davidson, Hopewell township). 

Jacob M. Donaldson was born June 5, 1829, in 
Mt. Pleasant township, this county, and was reared 
and educated on the farm adjoining his present 
home. In 1862 he was united in marriage with 
Miss Mary Elizabeth Pry, a native of Cross Creek 
township, who was reared in Hopewell township, a 
daughter of John and Hester Ann (Forester) Pry. 
Mr. Pry was born August 10, 1811, in the "Old 
Dominion," and in early manhood came to Wash- 
ington county, Penn., and settled in Hopewell 
township, where, in June, 1838, he married Hester 
Ann Forester, born June 2, 1817, in Maryland. 
She was a daughter of George William and Eliza- 
beth (Clark) Forester, natives of Maryland, of 
English descent, who moved to Washington county, 
Penn., about 1817, settling in Buffalo village, 



804 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Hopewell township. Mr. Forester was a school 
teacher, which profession he followed for many 
years, and in religion was a member of the Old 
Presbyterian Church. He died in Mt. Pleasant 
township, having been preceded by his wife many 
years. 

Mr. and Mrs. Pry located on a farm in Cross 
Creek township, and in 1853 moved to Hopewell 
township, thence to Canton township, and finally 
settled in Burgettstown, Smith township. He died 
April 12, 1882, his wife having died October 7, 
1868. Their children were as follows: J. Conrad 
(a soldier in the Civil war, who afterward married 
Minnie Aiken, at Prairie dn Sac, Wis., and lives in 
Montecito, Cal.), Mary Elizabeth (Mrs. Donaldson), 
George William (deceased in infancy), James D. 
(enlisted at Washington and served till the close of 
the war; he married Mary Bigelow, and lives in 
Minnesota), John Henry (who died May 8, 1885, 
was married to Mary Boley, of Allegheny), Samuel 
Clark (married to Emma Root, of Minnesota, lives 
in Prairie du Sac, Wis.) and Catherine Rowena 
(deceased December 11, 1885, in Burgettstown, 
Penn. , wife of Edward B. Evans). 

Nine children have blessed the union of Mr. and 
Mrs. Jacob M. Donaldson, viz. : Ina Hester (who 
was married in 18S0 to Dr. McClure, of Alpha, 
Greene Co., Ohio, and has five children: Roy Don- 
aldson, Robert Templeton, Carl Ralston, James 
Albert and Mary Etta); Willard Brady (who was 
married September 11, 1888, to Jennie F. Jack 
son, a native of Mt. Pleasant township; he grad- 
uated from the Western Pennsylvania Medical 
College with the class of '89, and located at Mid- 
way, this county, where he is now successfully fol- 
lowing his profession as physician and surgeon. 
They have had two children; one deceased at the 
age of six months, and Mary L.); Leoline (who 
was married June 5, 1890, to Rev. D. T. McCal- 
mont, a U. P. minister of Butler county, Penn., 
and has one child, Howard Donaldson); Minnie 
Etta; Edmund I.; John P.; James C. ; Robert 
Lester and Percy J. M. 

Mr. and Mrs. Donaldson since their marriage 
have lived on the farm in Mt. Pleasant township, 
containing 230 acres of good land, a portion of the 
old homestead. Politically he is an enthusiastic 
Democrat; is actively interested in educational 
matters, and has been a member of the school 
board. He and his wife are members of the Pres- 
byterian Church at Mt. Prospect. 

Robert S. Donaldson was born June 16, 1831, 
on the home place in Mt. Pleasant township, this 
county, where he was reared to manhood, and 
received an education in the district schools. On 
May 14, 1857, he was united in marriage with Ra- 
chel V. Walker, daughter of John Norris and Ann 
(Vance) Walker, of Cross Creek township, and na- 
tives of Jefferson and Smith townships, respect- 



ively. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Walker 
settled in Cross Creek township, this county, where 
he died in February, 1882, aged seventy-six, 
having been preceded by his wife in 1870. Both 
were members of the Presbyterian Church at Cross 
Creek village. 

Mr. and Mrs. Donaldson began wedded life on 
the farm in Mt. Pleasant township, where he is yet 
living. Mrs. Donaldson died May 26, 1871. She 
was the mother of six children, viz.: Frank W., 
who was married November 8, 1883, to Annie, 
daughter of James Taggart, and has three chil- 
dren: Earl, Mabel V. and James T. ; Flora M., 
who was married in November, 1880, to James M. 
Dinsmore, and has four children: Grace W. , 
Mary J., Robert Edwin and William Lloyd; Anna 
V., who was married December 25, 1884, to Dr. 
Hugh Hanna, a graduate of Jefferson Medical In- 
stitute, class of '92, and has two children: Eva and 
Hugh; Sarah M., who was married in October, 
1887, to John M. Thompson, a farmer of Buffalo 
township, this county; Charley I. (at home); and 
Harry N. , a dentist of Bellevue, Ohio. 

After the death of his first wife, Mr. Donaldson 
was married June 25, 1873, to Hettie J. Byers, a 
native of Donegal township, this county, and 
daughter of Thomas Byers. Her grandfather, 
Thomas Byers, was born September 7, 1757, in 
Ireland, and came to this country in early life. 
On September 18, 1783, he was united in marriage 
with Margaret Shannon, of Scotch descent, and 
settled on a farm in Finley township. The chil- 
dren of this couple were as follows: Samuel, born 
July 10, 1784 (lived in Ohio); John, born July 22, 
1786 (a physician of Piqua, Ohio); Sarah, born 
March 25, 1788 (wife of Dr. Wiley, of Ripley, 
Ohio); Thomas, who enlisted in the war of 1812; 
Jane, born April 3, 1792 (wife of David Stewart, 
of Ohio county, W. Va.); Margaret, born Febru- 
ary 7, 1794 (Mrs. John McDonald, of Donegal 
township); Ann, born June 20, 1797 (wife of An- 
drew Yates, of Ohio county, W. Va.); James, born 
June 20, 1799 (lived in Noble county, Ohio); 
Nancy, born February 21, 1802 (married to John 
Brice, of Belmont county, Ohio); Rachel, born 
June 22, 1804 (Mrs. Hugh Wilson, of Ohio); and 
William, born March 13, 1809 (resided in Butler 
county, Penn.). 

Thomas Byers, father of Mrs. Donaldson, was 
born April 22, 1790, in East Finley township, this 
county, where his boyhood was passed. On April 
12, 1813, he was married to Margaret Hamilton, 
who was born May 9, 1794, in Canton township, 
this county. After marriage the young people re- 
sided in Donegal township till 1851, when they 
moved to Washington, where Mr. Byers died Sep- 
tember 8, 1863. He lost a limb in early life, but 
the sad accident made him none the less a useful 
and energetic citizen. He was an ardent advocate 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



805- 



of temperance, and held many township offices. 
He and his wife were members of the Presbyterian 
Church, and he was superintendent of the Sabbath- 
school for years. They were the parents of the 
following children: R. H. (a Presbyterian minis- 
ter of Houston, Tex.), Thomas (who died Decem- 
ber 25, 1870, an attorney of Fairfield, Iowa), Mary 
R. (wife of James Todd, of Ohio county. W. Va.), 
Margaret S. (deceased October 11, 1887, married 
to Benjamin Oldham, of Dallas, W. Va.), John C. 
(an attorney of Stockton, Cal.), Samuel (deceased 
February 22, 1872, in Marshall county, 111.), Alex- 
ander R. (a physician and surgeon of Pike county, 
Ind.), Hettie J. (Mrs. Robert S. Donaldson) and 
Sarah J. (deceased April 11, 1852). 

Mr. and Mrs. Donaldson have continued to re- 
side on the farm in Mt. Pleasant township, upon 
which he has made many improvements; in 1860 
he erected a comfortable brick residence, and has 
also put up other buildings. The farm contains 
235 acres of good laud, which is cultivated to the 
highest degree. Mr. Donaldson votes the Demo- 
cratic ticket, and in religious faith he and his wife 
are members of the Presbyterian Church at Buf- 
falo, of which he is a trustee. 



CALVIN L. MILLER, a prominent and suc- 
cessful farmer of Donegal township, is of 
Irish descent. The first member of the 
family to locate in Washington county was 
Christopher Miller, who was born and married east 
of the Alleghany mountains. In 1782 he and his 
family made the perilous journey across the mount- 
ains, and entered Washington county, locating about 
three miles north of Claysville, near the headwaters 
of Buck run. Here he secured a "tomahawk claim " 
of 400 acres, upon which he erected his cabin 
home, and began to clear the forest. The Indians 
were still troublesome, and made frequent raids 
through that part of the country* and for defense 
against their common foe, Christopher Miller, to- 
gether with his few and distant neighbors, erected 
a blockhouse, to which they were several times 
compelled to flee for safety. Mr. Miller was a 
pioneer of Donegal township, and passed the re- 
mainder of his life in that neighborhood. He was 
twice married, but the names of his wives are un- 
known. His children were William, John, Chris- 
topher, Jacob, Sarah, Mary and Margaret, all of 
whom passed their lives in Washington county. 
The four sons located on portions of the 400 acre 
tract, which land was equally divided among 
them. 

John Miller was born in 1780, east of the Alle- 
ghany mountains, and when yet a child came with 
his parents to Washington 4 county. In 1802 he 
was married to Margaret Guy, who was born 
March 15, 1776, near Fredericktown, Md. , and 



afterward came to Washington county with her 
parents, John and Elizabeth Guy. To the union 
of John and Margaret (Guy) Miller were born the 
following children: William, born July 17, 1803 
(lived and died in Washington county); John, 
born January 1, 1805 (deceased in Washington 
county); Elizabeth, born January 11, 1S07 (died 
unmarried in Washington county); Susanna, born 
February 23, 1809 (deceased wife of William Mc- 
Kay, of Washington, Penn.); Christopher (father 
of our subject), and George B., born December 10, 
1812 (deceased in Washington county). Mr. 
Miller's share of the original 400 acres whicn 
his father had owned was 100 acres. He lived and 
farmed upon this tract until his death, which oc- 
curred July 8, 1814. His sons then carried on the 
farm, upon which his widow continued to reside 
until her death, which took place May 26, 1847. 

Christopher Miller, now a hale and hearty old 
gentleman, of Donegal township, was born Feb- 
ruary 14, 1811, and passed his boyhood days on 
the home farm with his widowed mother. He was 
obliged to assist with the farm work, and was thus 
deprived of a good education, but managed by 
close application to make the most of his meager op- 
portunities. On May 21, 1840, he was united in 
marriage with Sarah J. Knight (who was born No- 
vember 21, 1823), daughter of Charles Knight, of 
Washington county, and their children were as fol- 
lows: Leamon (deceased), born February 10, 184] ; 
Calvin L. (subject of this sketch); Mary J., born 
July 19, 1844 (unmarried, and living at home); 
George H., bora April 23, 1846 (a physician at 
McDonald, Penn.); Charles W., born March 15, 
1848 (living near Coon Island, Penn.); Margaret 
C, born September 12, 1849 (Mrs. John Holmes, 
of Donegal township); Frances E. , born February 
18, 1851 (widow of Bruce Ramage, residing with 
her father); William B. (deceased), born August 
28, 1854; and JohnB. (deceased), born September 
1, 1857. After his marriage Mr. Miller located 
on a part of the " tomahawk claim," which was 
Srst secured by his grandfather, and is his present 
home. He has always been a farmer, and although 
now well advanced in years has never been sick 
but once in his life, and that was in early youth. 
In political life he was formerly a Whig, and when 
the party was formed, became a Republican. His 
wife died in 1884, and his daughter has lived with 
him since that time. 

Calvin L. Miller was born August 18, 1843, in 
Donegal township, this county, on the headwaters 
of Buck run. He attended the common schools, 
and worked on his father's farm until twenty years 
of age, when he worked one season for Adam Car- 
son, and having pleased his employer by his energy 
and steady habits, he remained with Mr. Carson 
eight years. In 1873 he was married to Margaret 
Taylor (who was born December 29, 1853), daugh- 



sdfi 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



ter of Thomas and Susan (Darlington) Taylor, of 
West Finley township, this county, and they had 
rive children: Christopher W., Carrie E., Jessie 
Belle, John L. and George Lawrence. For some 
time after his marriage Mr. Miller resided on the 
" Graham Farm," located about two miles north of 
Claysville, this county. He then moved to West 
Finley township, and in 1886 located on his present 
home, situated about one mile north of Claysville, 
in Donegal township, on a part of the old Gourley 
farm. He has erected a fine house, barn and out- 
buildings, which have greatly enhanced the value 
of his property. Politically he has always been a 
Republican. Mrs. Miller is a member of the Cum- 
berland Presbyterian Church at Windy Gap. 



JjOSEPH PATTERSON is a son of Richard 
I Patterson, whose father, John Patterson, 
| came in 1806 with his parents from Ireland 
and first settled in Delaware. Eight years 
later John Patterson came to Allegheny 
county, Penn. He was married to Miss Mary 
Miller, also a native of the Emerald Isle, who bore 
him eight children, viz. : Robert, James, Moses, 
Richard, three that died in infancy, and John, all 
now dead. 

Richard Patterson was born March 2, 1800, in 
Ireland, and came to Allegheny county with his 
father. On June 21, 1832, he was married to Miss 
Mary Moss, who was born February 28, 1800, a 
daughter of John Moss, of Washington county, 
Penn. In 1834 Richard Patterson came to the 
home farm in Peters township; Washington Co., 
Penn. He was a member and elder of the Pres- 
byterian Church until 1854, when he joined the 
United Presbyterian Church, in which he shortly 
afterward served as elder. Four children were 
born to his first marriage: Elizabeth J., Joseph, 
John and James R. The mother of this family 
died in 1847, and in 1840 the father was married 
to Miss Margaret Ross, a daughter of George Ross, 
and she died in 1 ST) 4. In 1857 he was united in 
marriage with Miss Jane MoMurray, a daughter of 
James McMurray, of Allegheny county, Penn., and 
to this union were born two children, viz. : Mary 
B. (who was married to R. M. Patterson, a promi- 
nent minister of Armstrong county, Penn.), and 
Richard M., who died in infancy. Richard Patter- 
son died April 17, 1891, having been preceded by 
his wife, Jane (McMurrav) Patterson, September 

9, 1888. 

Joseph Patterson, sou of Richard and Mary 
(Moss) Patterson, was born September 28, 1835, 
on the farm in Peters township, Washington Co., 
Penn., where he is now living. He was there 
reared to manhood and on May 15, 1862, was 
married to Miss Jane W. Douglass, daughter of 
Thomas Douglass, of Allegheny county, Penn. 



To them have been born seven children, namely: 
Thomas J., Mary J., Alice M., Richard M., Caro- 
line, Edwin (deceased in infancy) and James W. 
After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Patterson came 
immediately to the home place, where they have 
since resided. He has been a stanch Republican, 
and has held the office of school director. He is a 
member and has been a trustee of the United 
Presbyterian Church of Peters Creek. The Pat- 
terson family have 144 acres of excellent land in 
their possession. 



ALEM FLACK. Among the early pioneers 
of Washington county was John Flack, who 
came from Lancaster, Penn. , to Washington, 
where, in 1784, he purchased a town lot, be- 
ing one of the first lot owners in the town. In 
17^N he removed to Buffalo township, and here he 
purchased a farm on which he erected the first 
frame house in that section of the county. He 
married Jane Gault, a native of Canonsburg, 
Washington county, and to them were born chil- 
dren as follows: James, John, Samuel, David, and 
Mary. The mother of these children died on the 
homestead in Buffalo township December 1 1. 1823, 
in her sixty third year. 

John Flack was known among the early pioneers 
of Buffalo township, and after his location there, 
continued to reside on his farm until his death, 
which occurred in 1832. The homestead has ever 
since remained in the possession of the family, and 
there may be found members of the fifth gen- 
eration. 

Samuel Flack, third child of John and Jane 
(Gault) Flack, was born April 12, 1791, on the old 
homestead in Buffalo township. During his early 
manhood he went to Ohio, and there married 
Sarah Brown, by which union there were four chil- 
dren, viz.: Salem, Mary Jane, Elizabeth A., and 
Luther B. (who graduated at Washington College, 
and died soon after graduating). They resided in 
Wayne county, Ohio, until 1827, in which year 
they removed to Washington county, Penn., set 
tling on a farm in Buffalo township, where they 
resided during the remainder of their lives. Sam- 
uel Flack was a man of much force of character, 
and determination, and was prominent among his 
fellows in the pioneer days. During the Black 
Hawk war, in response to a call for troops, he vol- 
unteered his services, enlisting with a company at 
Taylorstown. They proceeded to \\ eirich's tavern, 
a well-known landmark of the early days, and 
there went into camp for the night. The follow- 
ing morning they received notice that they were 
not required, whereupon they reluctantly returned 
tot heir homes. Samuel Flack was a quiet, unassmn 
ingman in his way, and while never seeking public 
position was always conspicuous by reason of the 







J<JaJ^^ zc£l*JL- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



809 



active part he took in all public movements. He 
died in Buffalo township in 1850 in his sixty-sixth 
year, honored and respected by all. His widow 
survived him until 1873, when she, too, was called 
to a higher and better home. 

Salem Flack, the immediate subject of this 
sketch, was born May 19, 1824, in Wayne county, 
Ohio, by the historic waters of the Killbuck. He 
was but three years of age when his parents re- 
moved to Buffalo township, this county, and set- 
tled near Taylorstown. Here our subject was 
reared to manhood, a part of his literary education 
being secured at the old log schoolhouseand part at 
the brick one, of the neighborhood, while his more 
practical training was received under the able pre 
ceptorship of his father, on the home farm, lessons 
being there given that have been invaluable to him 
in his life work. On the death of his father Mr. 
Flack purchased the interests of the other heirs, 
and has since remained on the home farm, where 
he has continued to follow agricultural pursuits, 
including stock raising and other kindred interests. 

In February, 1864, he was united in marriage 
with Margaret A., daughter of Aaron Farrar, and 
to them have been born the following named chil 
■dren: Samuel L. (assisting his father in the man- 
agement of the farm), Sarah Virginia (who died at 
the age of eighteen), John A. (married to Elizabeth 
Ashbrook), and Jennie A., both living at home 
with and assisting their parents. The eutire fam- 
ily are members of the Presbyterian Church, and 
in politics Mr. Flack is a stanch though not active 
Republican. His farm, which is one of the finest 
in the county, and is situated about four miles 
from the borough of Washington, contains 290 
acres of choice land, whereon stand a handsome 
pleasant residence and commodious out-houses, all 
of which, together with the general surroundings, 
bespeak enterprise, judicious management, pros- 
perity and contentment. 

The Farrar family in Washington county are de- 
scended from James Farrar, who resided, at the 
beginning of the Revolutionary war, in Hunterdon 
county, N. J. , where he and his eldest son, James, 
worked as blacksmiths for the American arm)' dor- 
its operations in that State. Two sons, John and 
Peter, were soldiers in Washington's army, and 
were both killed at the battle of Long Island. In 
the year 1785 Andrew Farrar, with his wife Mar- 
garet (Moore), a lady of Scotch-Irish parentage, 
crossed the mountains to western Pennsylvania, 
and settled in Mt. Pleasant township, Washington 
county, where he died November 5, 1832. He 
reared a family of seven sons and three daughters, 
the ninth child in the family being a son, Aaron, 
who became the father of Mrs. Flack. He mar- 
ried Jane Griffith, a native of Washington county, 
Penn. , born in 1812. They purchased a farm in 
Mt. Pleasant township, and resided thereon until 



1845, when they came to Buffalo township, and 
purchased a farm from Robert Dinsmore, near 
Taylorstown, now owned by David Haggerty. 
They had resided there but a year, when death en- 
tered the home, calling the father and husband to 
his long home. He passed away January 0, 1846, 
in his thirty-sixth year, at peace with all the world, 
a consistent member of the Presbyterian Church. 
Their union had been blessed with rive children, as 
follows: Margaret A. (Mrs. Salem Flack); Jennie 
M., married, November 1, 1S60, to Milton B. Curry, 
of Amweli township, Washington county; John (i., 
married to Caroline Kerr, and resided in West 
Virginia until his death (he served in the war of 
the Rebellion, was with Sherman on his march to 
the sea, was taken prisoner, and paroled and ex- 
changed); Mary E. (Mrs. James Hodgens). and 
Harriet N. (who died at the age of two years). In 
1848 Mrs. Jane Griffith Farrar was united in mar- 
riage with David Haggerty, and to them were born 
three daughters: Sarah Josephine (now Mrs. Sam 
uel Thompson), Lettitia M. (married to Frank 
Moore), and Annie V. (at home with her father). 
The mother passed away July 4, 1872. 



:HE FULTON FAMILY. John Fulton was 
born in May, 1810, in Philadelphia, Penu., 
and after receiving a limited education, 
learned the carpenter's trade, which he fol- 
lowed in Washington county, Penn. On 
January 12, 1832, he was married to Miss Hannah 
McMillan, who was born March 3, 1815, in this 
county, in the dwelling now occupied by James C. 
Fulton. Miss McMillan was a granddaughter of 
John McMillan, D. D. , who settled on the same farm 
in 1775. Although beginning life as a poor boy, 
John Fulton, by dint of honest effort and careful 
economy, became a prosperous citizen. He pur 
chased 160 acres in North Strabane township, this 
county, to which many improvements have since 
been made. He and his wife were devoted mem- 
bers of the United Presbyterian Church at Canons- 
burg. He died October 18, 1869, followed Sep- 
tember 14, 1891, by his wife whohad borne him nine 
children, viz.: Samuel (deceased) Joseph R., 
William, Mary Elizabeth (Mrs. Pry, now living in 
Brooke county, W. Va.), Thomas K., Robert D., 
John, Catherine Isabel (residing on the old home- 
stead with her brother R. D. Fulton) and James C. 
Robert D. Fulton, son of John and Hannah 
Fulton, was born April 8, 1846, and reared on the 
old place in North Strabane township, this county, 
receiving a common school education. On Novem- 
ber 23, 1881, he was married to Aggie M., daugh- 
ter of James and Rachel, (Hamilton) Rath, and to 
this union were born a son and a daughter, namely: 
James R. and Maggie J. The mother died May 
7, 1886. She was a member of the United Presby- 



810 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



terian Church, with which the father is also identi- 
fied. He is a member of the Democratic party, 
and is now serving as supervisor of roads in his 
district. 

John Fulton, seventh child of John and Hannah 
Fulton, was born April 29, 1849, on the old home- 
stead in North Strabane township. On October 
11, IN16, he was united in marriage with Miss 
Sallie C. Crawford, who has borne him four chil- 
dren, namely: Chatham Crawford, Dora Martha, 
Samuel Reed and Alexander Clyde. Mr. Fulton 
is actively interested in the educational interests 
of the community, and is now serving as school 
trustee. Iu politics he is a Democrat, and in 
religion he and his wife are members of the United 
Presbyterian Church at Canonsburg. 

James C. Fulton, youngest son of John and 
Hannah Fulton, was born February 8, 1857, ou 
the old homestead in North Strabane township. 
He attended the country schools of the neighbor- 
hood, and has since remained upon his birthplace. 
On October 28, 1886, he was united in marriage 
with Etta V., daughter of Isaac and Isabel (Lewis) 
Walker. Three children have blessed this union, 
namely: Thomas O, Mabel H. and Elsie Anetta. 
Both parents are members of the United Pres- 
byterian Church at Cauonsburg, and in polit- 
ical opinion the father is a Democrat. The old 
homestead contains 295 acres in North Strabane 
township; since the death of John Fulton it has 
been under the management of the three sons 
above mentioned, Robert D. , John and James C. 



CLINTON L. MILLER, a progressive citizen 
of Donegal township, is a son of William 
and a grandson of Frederick Miller. Little 
is known of the latter' s parents save that 
they were of German birth, and among the earliest 
settlers of Donegal township, Washington Co., 
Penn. There their son Frederick was born in an old 
blockhouse where the parents resided for safety 
from the Indians. Frederick Miller grew to man- 
hood amid the surroundings of pioneer life, and 
was married to Elizabeth Miller, also a member of 
an old family, but no relation to her husband's 
people. Among the children born to their union 
was the father of our subject. 

William Miller was born March 4, 1809, on the 
farm in Donegal township, this county, and 
passed his boyhood days on the home place, attend- 
ing the rude schools of the period. On January 
1, 1852, he was united in marriage with Catherine 
Clemens, who was born November 19, 1824, 
daughter of Nicholas Clemens, of Donegal town- 
ship, and to their union were born the following 
.children: Lehman (deceased in infancy), Clinton 
L., Luther G. (deceased iu infancy), Ermina L. 
(Mrs. Joseph Miller, of Donegal township) and 



Florence V. (Mrs. James Castner, of Independence 
township). After his marriage Mr. Miller located 
on the Dutch fork of Buffalo creek, about two and 
a half miles north of Coon Island, where he made 
a permanent home. He was a successful farmer, 
and in politics was a nfemher of the Democratic 
party. He died in 1880, since which time his 
widow has resided on the home farm, now man- 
aged by her son, Clinton L. 

Clinton L. Miller was born December 16, 1854, 
on the home farm near Coon Island, where he is 
now living, which has remained in the possession 
of the Miller family since it was first patented. 
Clinton L. received a common-school education, 
and has always been a farmer, in which vocation 
he is very successful. He is in a fair way to be- 
come one of the wealthiest men of Donegal town- 
ship. Politically he is a member of the Demo- 
cratic party. 



GHARLES H. BURIG, a prosperous and 
highly respected agriculturist of Donegal 
township, is a native of Germany. His 
father, Charles W. Burig, was born in July, 
1797, in the town of Brunswick, Germany, and 
attended the public schools of the place until four- 
teen years of age. He then learned the trade of 
miller, which he followed for forty years. In 1827 
he was married to Fredericka Ide, who was born 
in 1807, also in Germany, and to their union were 
born four children: Sophia (widow of Frederick 
Miller, living in Triadelphia, Ohio Co. , W. Va. ), 
Caroline (deceased wife of August Miller), Amelia 
(Mrs. Henry Snyder, of Moundsville, W. Va.) and 
Charles H. In 1848 Mr. Burig set sail from Bre- 
men for America, but as war was then raging 
between Prussia and Denmark, but few vessels 
were sailing from German ports, and the emigrants 
were obliged to come over in an English packet. 
They were sixty days on the ocean, but finally 
landed safely in New York. Thence they went by 
boat up the Hudson river to Albany; by railroad 
to Buffalo, N. Y.; by Lake Erie steamer to Erie, 
Penn ; from Erie to Beaver by canal, from Beaver 
down the Ohio river to Wheeling. Mr. Burig 
located on Peters run, in Ohio county, \X. Va., 
where he followed milling and farmiug until 1860, 
when, on account of age and failing health, he- 
retired. During the last years of his life Mr. 
Burig lived at the home of his daughter, Mrs. 
Miller, in Wheeling, W. Va., and there died in- 
1S75, having been preceded by his wife in 1866. 

Charles H. Burig was born December 21, is:',s, 
at Fursteuberg, Duchy of Brunswick, Germany, 
and came to America with his parents. He received 
his education at the common schools, at the same 
time, in his boyhood and early youth, assisting his- 
father in the mill work, and the duties of the farm. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



811 



On September 4, 1862, he was united in marriage 
with Catherine Helfenbien, who was born February 
27, 1843, in Marburg, Hessen Cassel, Germany, 
and was but six years of age when her parents 
immigrated to America, settling in Ohio county, 
W. Va. Mr. and Mrs. Charles Burig had the 
following children: William (a farmer of West 
Finley township), Amelia (Mrs. Armour J. Roney, 
of West Finley township), George (also of West 
Finley township), A. Elmer (living with his par- 
ents), Gertrude (Mrs. Albert Morrow, of Donegal 
township) and Charlton L. (living at home). After 
his marriage Mr. Burig farmed for some time in 
Ohio county, W. Va., and in 1865 settled in Done- 
gal township, Washington Co., Penn., locating on 
the old " De France farm," lying a short distance 
from the mouth of Dutch fork of Buffalo creek. 
He was engaged in milling for twenty years: but 
in 1885 he abandoned this business to devote his 
entire attention to farming. In political life Mr. 
Burig was a Democrat until 1880, when he united 
with the Republican party. He has recently 
erected an elegant residence which is equal to any 
in the vicinity. 



dfAMES H. SUPLER. The Supler family are 
identified with the early settlement and im- 
| provement of Washington county, and the first 
pioneer of that name, of whom there is any 
authentic record, was John Supler, the great- 
grandfather of our subject. He was born about 
1757, in eastern Pennsylvania, and was there mar- 
ried to Rachel Kirk, who was born August 13, 
1767. In company with his wife and a sister of 
Mr. Supler's, the young conple made the rough 
and tedious journey over the mountains. They 
filially located in Donegal township, about three 
miles southeast of West Alexander, where in the 
midst of an unbroken wilderness they erected their 
log cabin home. The following children were 
born to them: Susanna, born December 21, 1783; 
Rachel, born February 18, 1785; Margaret, born 
March 17, 1787; John, born January 25, 1790; 
Sarah, born May 6, 1792: Ann, born January 30, 
1795; and Edward, born February 18, 1804; all of 
whom lived to an adult age, and are now deceased. 
The father of this family died June 14, 1835, after 
many years of toil and care, and the mother fol- 
lowed him August 28, 1850. 

John Supler was born on the pioneer farm in 
Donegal township, this county, and shared all the 
hardships incident to pioneer life. In later years 
he was united in marriage with Margaret Sargent, 
a member of an old family of Washington county, 
and the children born to them were as follows: 
Thomas, John, Isaac, William. Henry, Elizabeth, 
Sarah Ann, Margaret, Rachel, Mary and Jane. 
Of this family those now living are Rachel, Eliza- 



beth, Sarah Ann and Isaac. Mr. Supler passed 
his life farming on the old home place, and died 
April 28, 1871. His widow died in 1881. 

Thomas Supler was born February 23, 1814, on 
the farm in Donegal township, this county, and 
was the eldest son of his parents. He received a 
common-school education, and was trained to agri- 
cultural pursuits by his father. In 1838 he was 
married to Margaret Hill, who was born August 
19, 1813, and their children were: Nancy Jane, 
born January 8, 1840; John H, born January 6, 
1842; Joseph G., born November 4, 1843; Alexan 
der D., born March 21. 1847; Henry H., bom 
January 26, 1849; and James H., the only child 
now living. After his marriage Thomas Supler 
located in Greene county, Penn., where he re- 
mained some time, then moved near Beallsville, 
West Bethlehem township, Washington county. 
He afterward purchased and moved upon the 
old home farm of the Suplers in Donegal township, 
this county. In 1876 he moved to West Alexan- 
der, same township, where his wife died May 5, 
1883, and October 20, 1884, he was united in mar- 
riage with Mrs. Caroline (Rogers) Mounts, widow 
of James Mounts. After his marriage to Caroline 
Mounts, Thomas Supler located in Claysville, April 
1, 1885, where he died February 15, 1886. Polit- 
ically he was a Republican, and in religion was a 
member of the M. E. Church. His widow is still 
living. 

James H. Supler was born March 18, 1850, near 
Beallsville, West Bethlehem township, this county, 
and came with his parents to Donegal township. 
He received a common-school education, and as- 
sisted his father in the farm work. On December 
29, 1875, he was married to Elizabeth Bryans, 
who was born April 3, 1855, at Port Stanley, 
Ontario, Canada, daughter of William and Marga- 
ret (Bamford) Bryans. They have four children, 
namely: William H., Bessie M., Minnie M. and 
James W., all of whom are living with their par- 
ents. Mr. Supler located on the home farm, 
where he is now living, and which has been in the 
possession of the family four generations. He is 
engaged in general farming, and also operates a 
threshing machine in the summer season. Polit- 
ically he is a Republican, and he is an energetic 
and prosperous young man. 



QEORGE W. RITCHEY, a skillful black 
smith and well-known citizen of West Alex- 
ander, was born December 10, 1827, in 
Donegal township, Washington Co., Penn. 
He is a son of John and grandson of George 
Ritchey, who was born and grew to manhood in 
Ireland. George Ritchey was married in his 
native country, and some time afterward came to 



812 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



America, locating in Buffalo township, Washing- 
ton county, near Taylorstown. They remained 
there several years, and then came to Donegal 
township, where Mr. Ritchey purchased the home 
farm. He had a family of twenty-one children. 
In politics he was a Democrat, and in religious 
■connection a member of the U. B. Church of Done- 
gal township. 

John Ritchey was born in Donegal township, 
Washington Co., Peun. , and there received his 
early education at the primitivesubscription schools. 
He was united in marriage with Elizabeth Fowler, 
a resident of Washington county, and their chil- 
dren were: Margaret J. (deceased wife of George 
Karnes), Elizabeth M. (first married to John Miller, 
now the wife of Thomas Phillips), George W. (our 
subject), David, William T. (deceased minister of 
the U. B. Church) and John. After his marriage 
Mr. Ritchey made his permanent home in Done- 
gal township. He was a public-spirited man, in- 
terested in all progressive movements, and an act- 
ive worker in the Democratic party; in relig- 
ion he was a member of the U. B. Church of 
Donegal township. He died in 1861, and was fol- 
lowed by his widow in 180(5. The remains of both 
rest in the V. B. Church cemetery. 

George W. Ritchey received his early education 
and passed his boyhood in Donegal township. At 
the age of eighteen years he was apprenticed to 
Lewis Hallom, of Washington borough, to learn 
the blacksmith's trade. He remained there two 
years, anil then entered the employ of John Mor- 
row, with whom he worked four years, when he 
established a shop at Taylorstown. Mr. Ritchey 
conducted the blacksmith business at that place 
for eight and a half years, and then entered the 
employ of William McCoy, in West Alexander, re- 
maining with him until 1862, when he enlisted in 
Company C, "Ringgold Cavalry," serving until the 
close of the struggle. After the war he worked at 
his trade in West Alexander until 1871, when he 
settled in Buffalo village, which was his home 
thirteen years, but finally came to West Alexander 
where he has since remained. On April 5, 1848, 
he was united in marriage with Mary, daughter 
of James Mitchell, of Bentleyville, Washington 
county, and their union has been blessed with the 
following children : Winfield S. , Lena (Mrs. Robert 
Martin), Thomas, A. E., Mary (Mrs. George Tim- 
rnons), William and Lester G. Of this family, 
Thomas, A. E. and William are deceased. Mr. 
Ritchey has always been a progressive man, and 
has taken au active part in the development of the 
community. Politically he is an earnest Repub- 
lican, and while residing in Hopewell township, 
served three terms as justice of the peace. He is 
a substantial member of the Presbyterian Church 
at West Alexander. 



QEORGE BLACK. Chief among the well- 
known farmers and breeders of fine Black- 
Top Merino sheep ranks George Black, who 
resides on his farm adjoining Canonsbnrg. 
James and Elizabeth (Horner) Black, 
grandparents of our subject, came from the Cum- 
berland Valley in company with William Horner, 
making the trip across the mountains in a wagon 
drawn by four horses. James Black owned a farm 
in Cumberland county, but was not satisfied with 
the settlement of his father's estate, and after sell- 
ing his farm moved to the wilds of Washington 
county, known at that time as "the backwoods." 
He first settled on the land in North Strabane 
township now owned by the Samuel McNary heirs; 
from there moved to Peters township, and for a 
time lived near Bethany Church on Miners run, 
Allegheny county, Penn. His wife died in Peters 
township, April 10, 1834, at the age of sixty years, 
and he passed away at the residence of his son in- 
law, Daniel Hickman, in Peters township, Novem- 
ber 6, 1842, aged seventy-two. Both are buried 
in the Chartiers cemetery, North Strabane town- 
ship. The children born of their union were: 
Margaret S., born July 22, 1796 (she was married, 
in 1818, to James Hare, who bought a farm near 
Claysville, where they both died); Nancy, born 
March 1, 1798, and married, in 1825, to James 
Lyons (she and her husband died on their farm 
near Industry, Beaver Co., Penn.); Elizabeth, born 
May 31, 1800 (she married Thomas Cotuer in 1826, 
and moved to Carroll county, Ohio); William, born 
June 22, 1S02 (married Eleanor Manifold); Sallie, 
born in October, 1804 (married Daniel Hickman, 
and settled in Stark county, Ohio); Richard, born 
in December, 1806 (he married Jane Speer; he was 
a carpenter and resided in Allegheny City, where 
he died); Robert, born January 9, 1809 (first mar 
ried Sadie Rankin, and afterward Elizabeth Mani- 
fold; he made his home on a farm near Beck's 
Mills, North Strabane township); James, born May 
25, 1812 (married Nancy Gilmore, on March 27, 
IS 11; he settled in Bridgeville, Allegheny Co., 
Penn.); and Rebecca, born February 14, 1816 
(married March 2, 1843, to Robert Johnston). To 
each of these marriages were born children. Will- 
iam Horner, brother-in-law of James Black, owned 
three farms near Beck's Mills, in North Strabane 
township. He was a member of Chartiers Presby 
fcerian Church, and died February 23, 1860, aged 
eighty-two. 

William Black, father of subject, was born June 
22, 1802, in Washington county, a son of James 
and Elizabeth (Horner) Black. He married Miss 
Eleanor Manifold, a native of York county, Penn. , 
who came with her parents across the mount 
ains when twelve years of age. After their mar- 
riage Mr. and Mrs. Black settled on the farm in 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



813 



North Strabaoe township now owned by our sub- 
ject, where they both died. William Black was a 
man of pure principle and of more than ordinary 
intelligence. He and his wife were members of the 
Presbyterian Church, and he was an elder in the 
Chartiers Church for a number of years. Six sons 
and four daughters were born of their union, viz. : 
Margaret (wife of Rev. William Grimes, of Bel 
mont county, Ohio), Ann (who died at the age of 
twelve years), Mary (wife of Rev. James S. Ban - , 
of Sealkote, northern India, where he is a mission- 
ary of the United Presbyterian Church), Elizabeth 
(who married Joseph Willison of this count}', now 
deceased), William (who married Mary Bebout, 
and resides in North Strabane township), Benja- 
min (who enlisted in the Fortieth Regiment, P. V. 
I., as a sergeant, and was killed at Gettysburg; he 
was unmarried), James L. (who enlisted in the 
Tenth Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteers; he was 
admitted to the bar, located in Pittsburgh, and at 
present is an attorney at law in Lumpkin county, 
Ga. ), George (our subject), Richard (who married 
Flora White, and lives on a farm in North Stra- 
bane township), and Robert (who married Margaret 
White, and owns a marble and granite yard in 
Canonsburg). 

George Black was born December 3, 1843, in 
Chartiers township, Washington Co., Penn., a son 
of William and Eleanor (Manifold) Black. He at- 
tended the common schools of Canonsburg, learned 
farming with his father, and upon the latter' s 
death came into possession of the old homestead 
farm. This laud was purchased of James Murray, 
who had bought it from the old Jefferson College 
trustees. On January 26, 1871, Mr. Black was 
married to Miss Jane E., a daughter of Samuel 
and Margaret (Templeton) McNary, born on her 
father's farm. Mr. and Mrs. Black are members 
of the First Presbyterian Church of Canonsburg, 
of which they are liberal supporters. Two sons 
and one daughter have blessed their marriage, 
viz.: Samuel O. , Benjamin M. and Jeanette. In 
September, 1862, Mr. Black enlisted in the Eight- 
eenth Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteers, and was 
stationed at Hagerstown, Md., but after a few 
weeks his services were no longer needed, and he 
was sent home. Our subject is a representative 
and progressive farmer, unassuming, but practical 
and reliable. He is one of the few agriculturists 
who realize that successful farming recpiires more 
study, concentration of mind and executive ability 
than any profession. Mr. Black is one of the or- 
ganizers of the Black-Top Merino Sheep Breeders 
Association of Washington county, and was treas- 
urer of this association two years. Politically, he 
works with the Republican party. He enjoys the 
confidence and respect of all who know him, and 
is universally considered an upright and honorable 
gentleman. 



| AMES 

taker, 



C. MATTHEWS, farmer and under- 
taker, is a resident of North Strabane town- 
ft J ) ship, of which he is a native, born July 20, 
^^ 1843. James Matthews, his grandfather, 
was born February 17, 1785, in Ireland, and 
in a very early day immigrated to America, set- 
tling in Washington county, Penn., where he fol- 
lowed farming the rest of his life, dying February 
18, 1853; in politics he was a typical old-school 
Democrat. 

James Matthews, father of James C. , was also 
a prominent agriculturist of Washington county, 
where he was born. He was here married, in 1836, 
to Sarah Crawford, who was born February 6, I 8 1 5, 
by whom he had a family of ten children, all of 
whom grew to maturity, viz.: Nancy J., wife of 
Matthew Ross, a farmer of Washington count v; 
Tamar M. , wife of John B. Milholland, of Pitts- 
burgh. Penn.; James C, subject of sketch; Eliza- 
beth, wife of William Caldwell, a farmer in Al- 
legheny county, Penn. ; Leonard, a farmer, of 
Columbiana county, Ohio; Andrew, proprietor of 
grocery store, Canonsburg, Penn. ; Levi, proprietor 
of a furniture store at Beaver Falls, Penn. ; Sarah 
M., wife of J. H. McMurray, a farmer in Peters 
township, this county; Chatham G., a grocery mer- 
chant in Allegheny county, Penn. ; and Martha A., 
now deceased. The father died December 30, 1885, 
the mother having some years preceded him to the 
grave. They were both active members of the 
United Presbyterian Church. 

James C. Matthews was educated at the dis- 
trict schools of his native township, and was reared 
from boyhood to the Arcadian pursuits of the farm. 
On November 4, 1869, he was married to Miss 
Belle M. Thomas, a native of North Strabane 
township, born May 17, 1848, a daughter of Liver- 
ton and Mary A. (Glandon) Thomas, the former of 
whom was born in North Strabane township, May 
12, 1808, the latter in Maryland, October 2, 1S13, 
and moved with her parents to Harrison county, 
Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Liverton Thomas were mar- 
ried in 1834, in Ohio, and shortly afterward set- 
tled in North Strabane township, Washington Co., 
Penn. They reared a family of nine children, 
eight of whom are yet living, viz. : Edmund, a 
farmer in Saline county, Neb.; William, a farmer 
in Chase county, Neb. ; James M. , a merchant 
in the village of Thomas, Washington Co., 
Penn. ; Rhoda L. , wife of John Hodgens, in Des- 
Moines county, Iowa; Liverton G., a physician in 
Philadelphia, Penn.; Belle M. , wife of James C. 
Matthews; A. J., a farmer of North Strabane 
township, and Ida M. , wife of William Kittle, of 
Rush eounty, Kans. (Caleb F. died in infancy). 
The father of this family is at present living with 
his daughter, Mrs. John Hodgens, at Middletown, 
Des Moines Co., Iowa; he is a member of the 
Presbyterian Church, and in politics a stanch 



814 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Democrat; his wife passed away December 10, 
1873. 

To Mr. and Mrs. James C. Matthews have been 
born six children — three sons and three daughters 
— as follows: Thomas C, born August 12, 1870 
(he is a mechanical draughtsman in Barberton, 
Ohio); James F., born September 10, 1S73 (en- 
gaged in the photography business); Ernest 
W., born November 17, 1875; Sarah E. and 
Mary A. (twins), born July 27, 1880, and Lena 
M., born May 16, 1883. Mr. and Mrs. Matthews 
are members of the U. P. Church, in which he has 
been an elder for the past fifteen years, and is 
superintendent of the Sabbath-school of Mount 
Prospect Church. He is a solid Democrat in his 
political preferences, and February 15, 1892, was 
elected township assessor. In his farming opera- 
tions he has been eminently successful, and since 
1875 has conducted an undertaking establishment 
in the village of Thomas. 



I[ RA M. BUTLER is of Welsh descent, his grand- 
father, Benjamin Butler, having been a native 
of Wales. The latter ancestor, a Quaker in 
religious faith, in 1776 accompanied his 
parents to America. The Butler family settled in 
Lancaster county, Penn., and there secured 1,000 
acres of land, part of which was in Chester county. 
Benjamin Butler was married in this country, and 
reared his family on the farm, but finally deciding 
to move to Ohio, sold the place, and purchased 
farms for the children. In 1805 sixteen persons 
began the journey to Ohio, with a two-horse team 
and carriage, arriving at Monongahela City on the 
evening of October 7, 1805. The following morn- 
ing Mr. Butler was suddenly stricken with apo- 
plexy and died that day. The other members of 
the family fell sick with malaria, which a 
quack doctor of the neighborhood pronounced 
yellow fever. These misfortunes compelled the 
family to remain in Washington county for some 
time, and they finally abandoned the idea of pro- 
ceeding farther. The mother resided with her son 
Ira R. until her death. She left the following 
children: Jonathan, a wagon and plow maker; 
Abner, a cabinet maker; Noble; Eunice; Isaac; 
Benjamin; Joel; Joseph and Ira R.,of whom the 
younger sons were carpenters with the exception 
of Ira R. 

Ira It. Butler was born November 15, 1792, in 
Lancaster county, Penn., and in 1805 came with 
the family to Washington county. After his ar- 
rival in this county he attended school for two 
years, then learned the saddlery business. His 
health failing, he abandoned this pursuit by the 
advice of a physician, and in 1S14 engaged as cap- 
tain of a freight vessel on Lake Erie. He followed 
this vocation three years, then returned to Monon- 



gahela City and became captain of "The Eagle," 
a passenger boat on the river, remaining in that 
position two years, at the end of which time he 
bought a farm near Monongahela City, meanwhile 
working in the boatyard for Robert Beebe. On 
June 4, 1822, Ira R. Butler was married to Mary 

A. Boyd, a resident of Washington county, and 
their children were as follows: Benjamin, William, 
Samuel M., Ira R., Eunice J. (wife of C. Z. Kcech- 
lin), Mary E. (married to Richard Pratt), Eliza- 
beth (wife of James Blythe), Emmeline (wife of 
Dr. R. S. H. Keys; she was the widow of Maj. S. 

B. Howe, of the First W. Va. Cavalry, who had 
served during the entire Civil war without receiv- 
ing a wound. On April 8, 1865, the night before 
the surrender of Lee, he was shot and killed by a 
rebel sharpshooter at Appomattox), Sarah (mar- 
ried to Charles Fry), and Ira M. In 1839 Mr. 
Butler sold his property, and in 1840 purchased 
the "John Stockdale farm,'' where he died July 
18, 1884, his wife having gone before September 
7, 1874. He was a leading member of both the 
Whig and Republican parties, and served for 
twenty-five years as justice of the peace. In re- 
ligion he was actively identified with the M. E. 
Church. 

Ira M. Butler was born January 22, 1843, on 
the home farm in Carroll township, Washington 
Co. , Penn. He received a common-school educa- 
tion, and on May 17, 1874, brought his bride, 
Nancy J. Frederick, to the home place. She is a 
native of West Pike Run towuship, this county, 
and daughter of Joseph Frederick. In 1880 the 
young couple moved to Elizabeth, Penn., where 
they resided until 1883, then returned to the home 
place and managed the farm until 1885. He 
afterward engaged in the livery business at Mo- 
nongahela City, which he continued to follow two 
and a half years, then worked on the railroad for 
two years. In 1889 he opened a feed store which 
he has since conducted. Politically he is a Repub- 
lican, but votes independently in local matters. 
He is a member of the M. E. Church. 



Jl( DAM AUOHENDOBLER was born August 
l\ 14, 1823, near the city of Nuremberg, 
^\ Bavaria, Germany, where his parents passed 
-^ their lives. His mother died when he was 
eleven years old, leaving one child. Adam 
Aughendobler remained at the home of his uncle 
after the death of his parents, and there learned 
the weaver's trade, also assisting on the farm. In 
1852 he embarked on a vessel bound for America, 
and after a voyage of seven weeks landed at Balti- 
more, Md. He then came to Washington county, 
Penn., and worked on a farm for Major Millinger, 
also for James Stockdale. On May 4, 1853. he 
was united in marriage with Mrs. Lizzie Zeh, a 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



815 



lady of German parentage, and the widow of 
J. B. Zeb, by whom she had one child — John 
B. Zeb, born in Germauy. She was married to 
Mr. Zeb in the Fatherland, where he died. She 
came to America in the same vessel as Adam 
Aughendobler, to whom she was married, as just 
related, and in 1865 they came to Monongahela, 
where the family have since resided. Mr. Augh- 
endobler is an active member of the Republican 
party, has served as councilman, and for twenty- 
eight years has been superintendent of the ceme- 
tery, which position he now holds. In religious faith 
he is identified with the Lutheran Church, which 
he has served as elder. To Mr. and Mrs. Aughen- 
dobler have been born the following children: 
Maria (Mrs. Levi Friend) and Bessie (Mrs. William 
Woodward), (twins), Jane (wife of James Dickey), 
Maggie (Mrs. Hoffman), Anna (wife of John Staib), 
George (deceased) and John L. 



JiOHN A. FRAZEE, who belongs to one of 
the oldest and most prominent families of 
) Amwell township, is a native of the same, 
bora May 28, 1834. His grandfather, Col. 
David Frazee, was the son of David Frazee\ 
who moved from New Jersey in about 17S0, locat- 
ing in Amwell township, this county, where he 
died in June, 1789. 

Col. David Frazee was born about 1782 in Am- 
well township, and afterward removed to West Beth- 
lehem township. The father dying when David 
was a boy of seven years, the family were soon sep- 
arated, and his early life was passed in West Beth- 
lehem, where he purchased what was afterward 
known as the" Frazee Homestead," on Brush run, 
a tributary of North Ten-Mile creek. He was 
married to Catherine Sutton, daughter of Andrew 
Sutton, and their children were David, Andrew 
and Sallie (who married Peter Miller), all now de- 
ceased. The father passed from earth in 1850. 
Col. Frazee was one of the leading men of the 
time, and was often asked to decide matters of 
difference by arbitration. At one time he and his 
son David owned 1,000 acres in the two townships 
— Amwell and West Bethlehem. In politics he was 
a Whig, and though by no means an office seeker, 
he worked earnestly for the interests of his party. 
He was a member and one of the founders of the 
Disciple Church at Lone Pine. 

David Frazee, son of Col. David Frazee, was 
born in 1812, and came with his parents to West 
Bethlehem township. He received a limited edu- 
cation in the common schools, but became a well- 
read, intelligent man. He was united in marriage 
with Amy Cooper, of Amwell township, daughter 
of Moses and Christine Cooper, and to this union 
were born two children: Mrs. Sarah Curry and 
John A. Politically Mr. Frazee was first a Whig 
and afterward a Republican; in religious faith he 



was an earnest member of the Disciple Church at 
Lone Pine, in which he was an elder for many 
years. Mrs. Frazee died in 188-1, and was fol- 
lowed by her husband March 29, 1888, when in 
his seventy-sixth year. 

John A. Frazee received his primary education 
at the common schools, attended Pleasant Valley 
Academy for two years, and also spent one term at 
Washington and Jefferson College. He remained 
at home until October 23, 1859, when he was 
united in marriage with Maria Woodruff, daughter 
of Joshua and Priscilla Woodruff, of Knox comity, 
Ohio. Mrs. Frazee has the following brothers 
and sisters all living in Ohio: Mrs. Benjamin Bell, 
residing near Martinsburgh; Morgan, a resident of 
Licking county; Mrs. Amanda Murdick, living in 
Newark, and L. M. Woodruff, a resident of Utica. 
The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Frazee were 
Calvin, born August 25, 1860; John Hamlin, born 
March 21, 1862 (died February 25, 1864); Mrs. 
Priscilla Paul, born January 20, 1864, residing in 
Washington; Allison J., born January 14, 1866; 
William W. , bom January 15, 1868; Eddie, born 
November 19, 1870 (deceased December 26, 1884); 
Ida M., born September 19, 1S72; Olive, born 
August 17, 1874; Isa, born November 4, 1876; 
Odessa, born November 22, 1878; and Angeline, 
born September 24, 1880, deceased January 11, 
1885. Mr. Frazee has been a very successful farm- 
er, and now owns 473 acres of as good land as 
can be found in his township. In politics he has 
always been a Republican, and he is much inter- 
ested in public matters. In religious faith he is 
a member of the Disciple Church at Lone Pine. 



d 



1766, 



¥ OHN W. FERGUSON, one of the wide-awake, 
enterprising and prosperous merchants of 
Smith township, is a representative of an old 
pioneer family who trace their genealogy from 
one John Ferguson, who was bom July 5, 
in County Down, Ireland, and was reared to 
agricultural pursuits. In 1793 the good ship 
" Wilmington " (commanded by Capt. James Jeff- 
ries, with John Magee as first mate) sailed for 
America. Among the passengers bound for the 
New World were John Ferguson and a neighbor 
family by the name of Warnock. They lauded at 
Philadelphia, where the friends parted, the War- 
nocks remaining in that city, while young Fergu- 
son went further west. He invested his small 
savings in a peddler's pack, and with this meager 
provision for the future started on his lonely 
journey of exploration. But among the members 
of the Warnock family was a daughter Jane, born 
October 23, 1772, in County Down, Ireland, to 
whom he had plighted his troth, promising to 
return and claim his bride when success should 
reward his efforts. He journeyed along the Ohio 
and Mississippi rivers, trading on the way. From 



816 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Pittsburgh, Perm., he made a trip to New Orleans, 
walking the entire distance on the return journey. 
He made various other expeditions, finally realiz- 
ing enough money to enable him to fulfill his long- 
cherished plans, and return to his love in Phila- 
delphia, who was patiently awaiting his arrival. 
In 1795 they were made one, and immediately 
went to Washington county, Penn., locating as 
tenants on part of a tract of 1,000 acres in Smith 
township, near the Hanover township line, which 
had been patented by Capt. Daniel Bavington. 
The young couple began life in their frontier 
home, enduring many inconveniences and dan- 
gers, and, as was then necessary, he was often 
obliged to cross the mountains to get salt and 
provisions. On one of these occasions the young 
wife was left alone in the cabin, and the wolves 
(which were at that time very numerous) sur- 
rounded it. Unable to keep them outside, the 
helpless woman fled to the garret, leaving the 
lower room to the mercy of the brutes, thus escap- 
ing with her life. Some years after this, John 
Ferguson purchased the land on which he resided, 
and later an adjoining tract, where the rest of his 
life was passed. He was a representative citizen, 
possessing good judgment; in politics he was a 
Democrat, and was often sought for advice on ques- 
tions of moment, while his wife was no less a val- 
ued member of the community. She was a famous 
nurse, being more successful with her patients 
than the majority of physicians, and both Mr. and 
Mrs. Ferguson were members of the old Seceder 
Church. Their children were Elizabeth (wife of 
James Smith), born July 7, 1798, who died in 
1871, in Beaver county, Penn. ; Anne, born Decem- 
ber 17, 1801 (deceased in 1819); Mary, born Sep- 
tember 5, 1805 (was fatally burned in an accident, 
dying November 4. 1887, unmarried); and John, 
born December 14, 1 807. The father died Feb- 
ruary 22. 1842, and November 24, 1850, the wife 
and mother passed away. 

John Ferguson was born on the home farm in 
Smith township, near' Bavington, being reared to 
agricultural pursuits, and receiving a country- 
school education. On October 23, 1851, he was 
married to Martha C. Kryster, who was born Jan- 
uary 25, 1S25, in Stark county, Ohio, the cere- 
mony taking place at North Springfield, Summit 
Co., Ohio. She was a daughter of Isaac and 
Frances (Fraker) Kryster, the former a member of 
an aristocratic family of Philadelphia, Penn., the 
latter born near Greensburgh, Westmoreland Co., 
Penn. They were early settlers of Stark county, 
Ohio, and parents of seven sons and six daughters. 

John and Martha C. (Kryster) Ferguson settled 
on the home farm in Smith township, and four 
children were born to them, viz.: Jennie A. (wife of 
William Beal, a farmer of Beaver county, Penn.), 
Isaac C. (an agriculturist of Smith township), 



John \Y. (whose name opens this sketch) and May 
F. (wife of F. B. Stewart). Mr. Ferguson was an 
eager reader, a practical scholar, and one of the 
most influential citizens of the community. In 
early life he gave some attention to dentistry, but 
never learned it as a profession. In politics he 
was a Democrat, and served as justice of the peace 
under the old constitution (which elected for life 
or good behavior), also serving .two terms after tin' 
present laws were introduced, filling the position 
in all for twenty- one years. Being a very careful 
business man, he was often called on to transact 
important affairs for others, and among the estates 
which he settled were the Garrett Van Ennnan, 
the Calvert, the Free Crafford, the Samuel Clokey, 
the James Brimner, the Samuel Neil and the James 
Stephenson estates, and was also associated with 
Squire Pollock in settling up the extensive Baving- 
ton estate. He held various township offices, was 
school director for eighteen years, serving as presi- 
dent of the board, and acted as guardiau for many 
children and minors. In religion Mr. and Mrs. 
Ferguson were members of the U. P. Church at 
Burgettstown, of which he was an elder over thirty 
years, and was also a member of the building com- 
mittee when the second building was erected. 
His useful life closed January 31, 1882, and Mrs. 
Ferguson resided on the farm some time after his 
death, but afterward removed to Bavington, this 
county, where she is now living with her children, 
May and John W., enjoying the affection and re- 
spect of all who know her. 

John W. Ferguson was born January 1, 1858, on 
the old place in Smith township, where he passed 
his youth working on the farm and attending the 
schools of the vicinity. He resided with his par 
ents until twenty-eight years of age, then began 
clerking for John McBride, a merchant of Baving- 
ton, and two years later became a partner. In 
1892 he purchased the entire business, which has 
virtually been under his control for several years, 
Mr. McBride having devoted his attention princi- 
pally to other interests. Mr. Ferguson is a pro- 
gressive and thoroughly competent merchant, and 
enjoys a large custom. In politics he has for sev 
eral years been a leading figure in the Democratic 
party, and has held various township offices with 
credit to himself. Of late he has been obliged to 
partially retire from political life, to meet the in- 
creasing pressure of his growing business. In re- 
ligion he is a member of the U. P. Church at 
Robinson. 

| AMES HODGENS. The family, of which 
this gentleman is a worthy member, is one of 
fr I the earliest to make a settlement in Buffalo 
^^ township, and one of the most highly re- 
spected and esteemed in the county. 

Thomas Hodgeus, grandfather of the subject 




%k 



J^t£<Z>7>C-£^ ^O 5 ^*^- 



-^i>L<f 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



819 



proper of this biographical memoir, was a native 
of County Armagh, Ireland, whence, in the spring 
of 1807, he emigrated with his family to America. 
After a brief sojourn in Philadelphia they came to 
Washington, this county, and in the spring of 
1808 Mr. Hodgens purchased a farm in Buffalo 
township, near the village of Taylorstown, on which 
they settled. Here Grandfather Hodgens ended 
his pioneer life, dying in 1821, at the age of sixty- 
five years, his wife following him to the grave sev- 
eral years later. In his native land Thomas Hod- 
gens has been, in religious faith, a strict Seceder, 
but after coming to this county, for reasons sound 
and just, no doubt, he associated himself with the 
Christian (or Disciple) Church, dying an earnest 
and devout member thereof, after having taken an 
active interest in the establishment and welfare of 
that Society in his township. 

Of the four children comprising the family of 
Thomas Hodgens, a son, by name Isaac, was born 
in 1794, in County Armagh, Ireland, where he re- 
ceived an excellent educational training under the 
preceptorship of Alexander Campbell, who after- 
ward came to this country, and established, at 
Bethany, W. Va. , an academy, now known as 
Bethany College, where Isaac Hodgens (who had 
immigrated with his parents) completed his edu- 
cation. During their voyage across the Atlantic, 
the vessel on which were the Hodgens family was 
boarded by a Britisli man-of war (probably for the 
purpose of impressing some of the able-bodied 
sailors of the merchant ship into the regular navy, 
as was the custom in those days in time of war — 
for Great Britain was then at war with France), 
and by some means Isaac became separated from 
the rest of the family, and was carried off by the 
warship. Later, however, he was placed on board 
the American ship "Martha," and ultimately re- 
stored to his parents. In Buffalo township he 
passed the rest of his active life, engaged in agri- 
cultural pursuits, and distinguished himself among 
his fellows as a man of unimpeachable character, 
a great reader, deep thinker and possessed of much 
knowledge. He was a zealous Democrat, and a 
personal friend of Andrew Jackson. So popular 
was he, and in such high esteem was he held by 
the community in which he lived, that he held 
every position of honor and trust in his township 
that could be conferred upon him by the people. 
He served as associate judge of the courts, also as 
county commissioner, and in the militia of his 
early times he took an active and conspicuous part, 
rising to the exalted rank of major-general. 

In 1822 Isaac Hodgens married Isabella McCar- 
rell, daughter of Ludawick and Martha (Lemon) 
McCarrell, the former of whom came from Ireland 
to Washington county, Penn.,in 1790, the latter 
being a native of the county; they were the parents 
of a large family. After marriage Mr. and Mrs. 



Hodgens resided on the old homestead in Buffalo 
township till 1835, when they moved into Taylors- 
town; but after one year's residence there they pur- 
chased a farm (now occupied by R. W. Crothers) 
adjoining the village, and here they passed their 
declining years, the father dying February 24, 
I860, the mother in June, 1872. They were the 
parents of eleven children, of whom five yet sur- 
vive, viz.: James. Martha (Mrs. Vance), Isaac (in 
Kansas City). William L. (a farmer in Iowa) and 
Robert A. (in Washington county, Pennsylvania). 

James Hodgens, whose name opens this sketch, 
is the fourth child of Isaac and Isabella (McCar- 
rt'll i Hodgens, and was born September 19, 1829, 
on the old original homestead in Buffalo town- 
ship. His rudimentary education he received at 
the public schools of the neighborhood of his boy- 
hood home, afterward completing his literary 
training at Jefferson College; and in all his studies, 
from the child's primer up, he proved an apt and 
dijigent scholar, remarkably cpiick and intelligent 
— such a one as the philosopher might have had in 
his mind's eye when he penned the immortal axiom: 
"The boy is father to the man." At college he 
found a favorite study in mathematics, in connec- 
tion with which he learned civil engineering, of 
which science he made himself master: and in after 
life he practiced surveying, in connection with 
farming and stock raising, for forty years. Mr. 
Hodgens remained on the old homestead up to the 
time of his father's death, and then took charge of 
his present farm in the same township, comprising 
250 acres of prime land. In addition to his home 
interests he owns property in Iowa and elsewhere. 
He is a prominent member and supporter of the U. 
P. Church at Taylorstown, and in his political 
preferences is an active and influential Democrat. 
He has served as justice of the peace and in other 
township offices of trust. 

On December 24, 1863, James Hodgens was 
united in marriage with Mary E. Farrar, a native 
of Washington county, Penn. , and a member of an 
old representative family, of whom special mention 
will presently be made. Nine children were born 
to Mr. and Mrs. Hodgens, and of them six are yet 
living, viz. : Thomas Milton (cashier of the State 
Savings Bank, in Butte City, Mont.), Ella Maude, 
Isaac Walter, James Oscar, Albert McClees and 
Ralph Morrow. 

The Faebar family in Washington county are 
descended from James Farrar, who at the com- 
mencement of the Revolutionary war resided in 
Hunterdon county, N. J., where he and his eldest 
son, James, did blacksmith's work for the Ameri- 
can army during its operations in that State. Two 
other sons — John and Peter — were soldiers in Wash- 
ington's army, and were both killed at the battle 
of Long Island. In 1775 Andrew Farrar (an- 
other son of the original James Farrar), together 



820 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



with bis wife, Margaret (Moore) Farrar, a lady of 
Irish parentage, crossed the Alleghany mountains 
into western Pennsylvania and settled in Mt. 
Pleasant township, this county, where he died 
November 5, 1832, the father of a large family — 
seven of them being sons, all of whom he reared to 
maturity. 

Aaron Farrar, who was tbe eighth child, married 
Jane Griffith, a native of Washington county, born 
in 1812, and five children came by this union, to 
wit: Margaret A., Jennie M. , John G. (deceased), 
Mary E. (Mrs. James Hodgens) and Harriet N. 
(deceased at the age of two years). Mr. and Mrs. 
Aaron Farrar resided in Mt. Pleasant township un- 
til 1845, and then moved to Buffalo township, 
where he purchased a farm near Taylorstowu. A 
year after settling on this farm Mr. Farrar was 
summoned to his long home January 6, 1845, pass- 
ing away in the thirty-sixth year of his age, at 
peace with all the world. For years he had been 
a constant and earnest member of the Presbyterian 
Church, and his life was one of exemplary piety. 




JLLIAM S. LEE is a great-grandson of 
Robert Lee, a native of Ireland, who im- 
migrated to America, and settled in Cross 
Creek township, Washington Co., Penn. 
His son Hugh was the grandfather of our 
subject. 

John Lee, father of William S., was born on the 
home farm in Cross Creek township, this county, 
and in early life was united in marriage with Mary 
Anu Walker, who bore him two daughters. He 
afterward married Jane Ann Scott, who was born 
October 3, 1817, near Washington, Penn. She 
wa-- a daughter of Samuel Scott, whose father, 
Josiah Scott, a native of Scotland, came to this 
country, where he ended his days. He was mar- 
ried to Jane Noble, who bore him eight children: 
four sons — Samuel, John, Hugh and Alexander — 
and four daughters. Samuel Scott was born about 
1779, near Washington borough, and remained on 
the home farm during his boyhood. He was mar- 
ried to Miss Mary Ann, daughter of William 
Wiley, of this county, and the following children 
were born to them: William W. , Josiah N., Jane 
Ann and Samuel G. (a prominent farmer of this 
county). 

After his marriage to Jane Ann Scott, John Lee 
settled on the home farm in Cross Creek township, 
this county, where the following children were 
born, the names and dates <>f birth being given: 
William S., October IS, 1838; Eliza A., June 13, 
1841; Mary M., March 25, 1843; Hannah J., 
March 20, 1846; John O.. August 2, 1847; Samuel 
W.. January 14, 1850; Hugh, December 25, 1N51; 
Alice, January 26, 1853; Lucy, July 19, 1856. 
The father died April 23, 1856. He was a success- 



ful business man, and owned 310 acres of land at 
the time of his death, which property is now in 
the possession of his heirs, who occupy it. He 
was one of the most active politicians in the Whig 
party; in religion he was a member of the Pres 
byterian Church, holding the office of trustee, and 
working for the Master in many ways. 

William S. Lee passed his early life on the 
home place. On December 31, 1863, he was 
united in marriage with Mary E., daughter of 
Thomas P. Vance, whose father, William Vance, 
born in 1776, was reared in Washington county, 
where he received a necessarily limited education, 
as schools were few, and at best afforded but 
meager opportunities. He was first married to 
Rachel Patterson, a resident of Cross Creek town 
ship, who bore him six children. She died, and a 
few years afterward he selected a second wife in 
the person of Hannah Patterson, a member of an 
old family of Cross Creek township, and to this 
union, also, there were born six children. William 
Vance always lived in Cross Creek township, and 
was one of the representative men of the day. He 
died in 1S56. He was a Whig in politics, and in 
religion a member of the Presbyterian Church. 

Thomas P. Vance, son of William and Hannah 
(Patterson) Vance, was born July 15, 1819. He 
was reared on the pioneer farm, experiencing the 
privations of early frontiersmen, and received his 
education at the subscription schools. In early 
manhood Thomas P. Vance was united in marriage 
with Mary, daughter of George and Mary (Mar- 
quis) Newell, of Ohio, whose children were Hugh, 
Jane, Marquis, Margaret, David, Mary W.. Ann, 
Sarah, Elanore, Joseph, Bentley, and Elzania. Mr. 
Newell was a Democrat, and in Church connection 
was a member of and elder in the Presbyterian 
Church. Mr. and Mrs. Thomas P. Vance settled 
on a farm in Cross Creek township, this county, 
where he passed his life in agricultural pursuits. 
He paid much attention to stock raising, making a 
specialty of blooded stock. He was formerly a 
Whig, and upon the organization of the party, be- 
came a Republican. In religion he was a member 
of the Presbyterian Church at Cross Creek. On 
May 31, 1891, he was laid to rest in Cross Creek 
cemetery, leaving bis wife and two children, W. 
W. (who married Miss J. A. Porter, of Cross 
Creek, and is now a successful merchant of Bur- 
gettstown), and Mary E. (Mrs. W. S. Lee). 

William S. and Mary E. (Vance) Lee began 
married life on the home farm in Jefferson town- 
ship, this county, and six years afterward moved 
to Burgettstown, where they have since resided. 
They have two children: H. May (wife of \Y. F. 
Scott) and Thomas V. (who was married June :l. 
1891, to Miss Willa Carnahan, of Burgettstown). 
William S. Lee carried on a livery business for 
five years after removing to Burgettstown, but. has 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



s-j] 



since been giving bis exclusive attention to under- 
taking. He is now identified with the U. P. 
Church. He is a leading citizen and an active 
member of the Republican party, and has been a 
councilman of Burgettstown for three years. 



JL. AUGHENDOBLEK, proprietor of meat 
market, Monongahela, is a native of the 
I county, born in Carroll township, July 17, 
1856, a son of Adam Aughendobler. He 
had very early in life to commence working 
for a living, and as a consequence had but little 
opportunity to attend school. He was first em- 
ployed by Robert Van Voorhis, a farmer of Monon- 
gahela, with whom he remained one year; then 
entered the employ of W. C. Shaw, a gardener who 
resided at Pine Creek, Allegheny county, and, after 
three years' engagement with him, clerked for 
William Kennan, of Monongahela, some years. 
He also worked for George Kern, in Monongahela, 
in meat shop twelve years. In 1885 Mr. Aughen- 
dobler opened his present meat market and butch- 
ering business, in which, by close attention to 
the wants of his customers, by care in furnishing the 
choicest meats, and by his well-known urbanity of 
manner and honorable dealing, he has earned a 
well-merited success. 

On June 8, 1878, our subject was married to 
Margaret E., daughter of William Brooks, of Mo- 
nongahela, and the children born to this union are 
Maude, Adam, Bessie, Leonard and Donald, all liv- 
ing. Mr. Aughendobler is a straight Democrat, 
and has held the office of councilman in Monon- 
gahela two years; he has also served on the 
school board, having been recently reelected for his 
second term. He and his wife are members of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church. 



V\ Ai RS ' MARY KEYS - John Ke }' s (deceased) 

\//\ was one of the most respected citizens and 
*i I prominent business men of Smith town- 

J ship. He was a son of James and a grand- 

son of James Keys, who was born and 
reared in Cumberland county, Penn., and was there 
married to a native of the same county, who bore 
him one son James. Soon after the birth of this 
son, the father died (about 1777), and his widow 
was then married to Robert Watson. Her son 
James lived with them, and in 1794 accompanied 
the family to Washington county, where they lo- 
cated on Chartiers creek. 

In 1800 James Keys was united in marriage 
with Jane McClelland, who was born in 1779, a 
daughter of James McClelland, a native of Ire- 
land, who, in an early day settled in the locality of 



Miller's Run. To the union of James and Jane 
Keys children were born as follows: Martha (mar- 
ried to William McBride, of Robinson township, 
this county), Jane (wife of John McBurney, of Mt. 
Pleasant township), John, James (a retired farmer 
of Steubenville, Ohio), William (a farmer of Kan- 
sas, deceased), Joseph (residing in Smith town- 
ship) and Ezra (a grocer of Leavenworth, Kans). 
After his marriage to Jane McClelland, James 
Keys moved to Trumbull county, Ohio (then a 
vast wilderness), remaining there but a short time, 
and then coming to Smith township, this county, 
located on a farm in Cherry Valley. In 1822 he 
represented Washington county in the Legislature, 
serving five years, and then returned to his farm. 
He was a brilliant and intellectual man, a leader 
in every undertaking for the public good. He was 
a Whig in politics, and in religious connection he 
and his wife were members of the Seceder Church, 
in which he was an elder. His wife died in 1838, 
and, after a useful aud successful life, he was laid 
by her side in 1854. 

John Keys was born June IS, 1808, in Smith 
township, this county, his boyhood being passed 
on his father's farm. The children of those days 
had but limited educational advantages, but John 
Keys eagerly availed himself of such aB were 
within his reach. In 1832 he was united in mar- 
riage with Ann May, who was born in 1808, 
daughter of John May, of Cecil township, this 
county. To this union were born the following 
children: Jane, James M. (a farmer who lives in 
Jefferson county, Ohio), and Phebe (wife of 
Matthew Galbraith) and Annie B. (wife of John 
McCalmont), both deceased. The mother died in 
1846, and January 23, 1849, he was married to 
Mary Shillito, who was born January 6, 1822, in 
Harrison couuty, Ohio, daughter of John Shillito, 
the latter a native of Beaver couuty, Penn. He 
was married to Jane Biggert, afterward moved to 
Harrison county, Ohio, and finally located in Wash- 
ington county, Penn. John and Mary Keys had 
the following children: Agnes E., Maggie M., 
Albert.M. (an energetic young farmer of Smith town- 
ship), and Clara (widow of T. P. Weaver) and John 
(deceased at the age of nineteen years) (twins). 
Mr. and Mrs. Keys began wedded life on a place 
in Smith township, and in 1869 settled on the farm 
where his widow is now living, situated about one 
mile south of Raccoon Station. In politics Mr. 
Keys was originally an Old-line Whig, and after- 
ward became a Republican. He was connected 
with the U. P. Church, being an elder therein for 
several years, and contributing liberally to its 
support. He died in May, 1883. His widow is also 
a member of the U. P. Church, and enjoys the re- 
spect of all who know her. She is living on the 
farm, which is managed by her son, A. M. 



822 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



JOHN G. McCORMICK, a progressive agri- 
culturist of Somerset township, is the eldest 
child of John McCormick, and a grandson 
of John McCormick, who was born in 1762, 
in Ireland, and came to America in 1783. 
He located in Washington county, Penu., where, in 
1812, he was married to Elizabeth Figley, who was 
born in 1772, and she bore him three children: 
Margaret, Jacob and John. The father followed 
farming all his life, and died in his adopted country 
July 17, 1828, his wife passing away in 1863. 

John McCormick, a son of John and Elizabeth 
(Figley) McCormick. was born June 1, 1815, and 
received his education in the schools of the period. 
In 1838 he was married to Juliana Grable, who 
was born August 15, 1815, and they had rive chil- 
dren, namely: John G., Mary (wife of H. B. 
Leyda, a farmer of Somerset township), Salome, 
Albert J. (living in Bentleyville), and Elizabeth 
(deceased). The father of this family was a Dem- 
ocrat in politics. He died May 8, 1887, having 
been preceded to the grave bv his wife Mav 19, 
1 845. 

John G. McCormick was born June 11, 1839, on 
the home farm in Somerset township, this county, 
receiving a common-school education. Ou Decern - 
, ber 21, 1869, he was united in marriage with Susau 
Dickerson, who was born November 19, 1847, in 
Harrison county, Ohio. She is a daughter of 
Joshua Dickerson, who was horn in 1804, in Penn- 
sylvania, and in 1828 was married to Belijah Laf- 
ferty, who bore him nine children, namely: Samuel, 
Edward, Margaret (wife of David B. Wallace, a 
farmer of Harrison county, Ohio), Jane (married to 
Robert Moore, also farming in Harrison county, 
Ohio), Susan (wife of John G. McCormick), Mary, 
Louisa, Joshua and Sarah (the four last named being 
deceased ). Joshua Dickerson followed farming, and 
in polities was a Democrat. He died October 6, 
1^72, and the mother was laid by his side August 
11. 1887. Both were members of the Presbyterian 
Church. 

Mr. and Mrs. McCormick have had one daugh- 
ter, Juliana, born June 16, 1871. Mr. McCormick 
is a practical farmer, and deals extensively in stock, 
which he ships from Chicago. He votes with the 
Democratic party, but takes little part in active 
politics, preferring to spend his time in the cultiva- 
tion of his well -improved farm. He is one of the 
most enterprising citizens of Somerset township, 
ever ready to aid all progressive movements. 



AMUEL ALEXANDER MARKS was born 
October lu, 1849, in Wellsburg, W. Va., and 
attended the schools of that city during his 
boyhood. He learned furniture finishing 
and undertaking, a business he followed in his native 
town until 1886. He then removed to West Mid- 



dletown, where he has since been engaged in an 
undertaking and house furnishing establishment. 



was united in marriage 
only daughter of John 
was born in 1811, in 
a child came with his 
Washington county, 



On March 25, 1886, he 
with Elizabeth Caroline, 
Sampson. Mr. Sampson 
Pennsylvania, and when 
parents to Cannonsburg 

where his boyhood was passed. He rceived as 
good an education as was obtainable, and then 
learned cabinet making. In 1834 lie was married 
to Sarah McCauley, of Washington county, and 
removed from Canonsburg to West Middletown. He 
immediately opened a modest establishment in 
undertaking and cabinet making, and by upright 
dealing combined with perseverance, his trade soon 
increased. He enlarged his factory, employing a 
number of young men, many of whom there learned 
the trade. John Sampson acquired a wide reputa- 
tion as a manufacturer and undertaker, his custom 
in the latter department extending many miles in 
all directions. During his active business career 
of over fifty years, Mr. Sampson carried over five 
thousand persons to their last resting place, and 
in all that time he was never late at a funeral. He 
was a man of unusual intelligence and rare judg- 
ment, always interested in the welfare of the com- 
munity, in which he was an unassuming but earn- 
est worker. Politically he was a firm believer in 
the principles of the Democratic party, but was 
never a politican; however, he served three years 
as director of the poor. In religious connection 
he was a consistent member of the Upper Buffalo 
Presbyterian Church, in which he served many 
years as a member of the board of trust. Although 
his home was four miles from church, his pew was 
never vacant on the Sabbath day, unless he was 
called upon to perform the necessary duties of his 
vocation. His wife was laid to rest February 20, 
1881. and to her memory no fitter or more tender 
tribute can be given than the testimony of her rel- 
atives and friends: "She was a true Christian wife 
ami mother.'' Mr. Sampson died February 3, 
1886, and was laid to rest by the side of his wife. 
The life of this well-known and valued citizen is 
comprised in the simple sentence: " He was a gi >od 
man and a just," and such lives, we can not doubt, 
reap their merited reward. 



f | AMES M. K. REED. Among the leading 
citizens of Cross Creek township none are 
If"!] more prominently identified with the inter 
" — ests of the community than the above-named 
gentleman. 

Joseph Reed, the first of the family of whom 
mention is made, was born November 27, 1733, in 
Ireland, whence he emigrated to America prior to 
the year 1763. He first located in Lancaster 
county, Penn., and in 1763 moved to York county, 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



825 



same State. On January 23, 1765, he was united 
in marriage with Jeanette Brotherton, who was 
born December 3, 1745, in Ireland, and when two 
years of age was brought by her parents to America. 
To this marriage children were born as follows: 
James, June 7, 1766; Nicholas, April 17, 1768; Ag- 
nes, May 8, 1770; Margaret, October 8, 1772; Jean- 
ette, May 1, 1776; Esther, December 24, 1780; 
Joseph, May 6, 1784; Ann, December 16, 1787, 
and William, April 18, 1790. Of these, Agnes 
married her relative, Joseph Reed (who had been 
in the Continental army during the Revolution), 
and they came in 1789 to Washington county, 
where they continued to reside; they are buried in 
Cross Creek graveyard; their children afterward 
removed to Armstrong county, Penu. James mar- 
ried his second cousin, Elizabeth Reed, removed to 
Washington county about 1798, and settled on 
200 acres of Col. Reed's 359-acre tract; they 
reared a family of six children: Joseph, married 
to Jane Beatty, settled in Richland county, Ohio, 
and raised a family; William, married to Rosan- 
nah, daughter of Robert and Sarah (Rea) Lyle, 
settled in Ashland county, Ohio (they are the par- 
ents of Hon. Joseph R. Reed, now chief justice 
of U. S. Court of Laud Claims); James, married 
to Margaret Glass, died near Washington, Penn. , 
leaviDg children; John, married, and moved to 
Hardin county, Ky., and has three daughters; Jane 
died unmarried; Mary married Joseph Lyle (now 
deceased), and resides with her son, James Reed 
Lyle, near Hickory, Washington Co., Penn. Mar- 
garet married James McNary, came to Washing- 
ton county and settled on part of Col. Reed's 359- 
acre tract. She raised a family of three sons and 
three daughters, all of whom married and left de- 
scendants. Many of her descendants still live in 
this county. She died May 25, 1866. and is buried 
in Hickory graveyard. The other sons and daugh- 
ters of Col.. Reed remained in York county, where 
many of their descendants still reside. 

In 1780 Joseph Reed received of Col. Marshall a 
farm consisting of 190 acres seventy- five perches 
and allowances, making over 200 acres, patented 
as "Pensacola," in Cross Creek township, Washing- 
ton county. This was given in payment for mov- 
ing the household effects of Rev. Joseph Smith 
from York county to Washington county, Penn., 
and the wagon used is said to have been the first 
driven west of Washington. He then bought 359 
additional acres of Col. Marshall, which is now a 
part of the McNary tract, owned by John L. 
Thompson & Bro., but did not move from his old 
home. Mr. Reed was a miller and farmer. He 
was a member of the Legislature of Pennsylvania 
in 1780, having presented the Act leading to the 
liberation of the slaves in Pennsylvania, and was a 
member of the Continental Congress in 1787 and 



1788. He held the commission of colonel in the 
American army during the war of the Revolution, 
and acted for some time in the capacity of quarter- 
master. He died October 19, 1804, at the age of 
seventy one, and is buried in Chanceford grave- 
yard, York county, Penn. His widow came to 
Washington county after his death, and died Jan- 
uary 27, 1838; she is buried in Cross Creek grave- 
yard. She and her young sons, James and Nich- 
olas, operated the mill duriug the absence of her 
husband in the army. 

Nicholas Reed was born at Reed's Mill, in York 
county, Penn, and in early life was married to 
Elizabeth, daughter of James Fulton, of same 
county. In IT'.lT the young people settled on the 
farm in Cross Creek township, Washington county, 
which had been bought of Col. James Marshall. 
It was then all heavily timbered woods. Nicholas 
erected a log cabin where the house of J. C. Reed 
is now standing, which in 1867 replaced the first. 
Nicholas Reed passed away in 1854, leaving the 
following children: Joseph, who settled in Rich- 
land county, Ohio; James, who died September 
22, 1823, in Huron county, Ohio; William; Hugh, 
who settled in Richland county, Ohio; Samuel, in 
Marion county, Ohio; John, in Wabash county, 
Ind. ; Robert, who died unmarried; Jane, who died 
unmarried; and Eliza, married to James Wilson, 
and has one daughter, Mrs. Eliza J. Burns, near 
Claysville, Penn. 

William Reed was born February 10, 1801, in 
Cross Creek township, Washington Co., Penn., and 
in early life learned the trade of a cabinet maker. 
In 1828 he was united in marriage with Isabella, 
daughter of Robert and Isabella (McKenzie) 
Curry, and they then made their first home in 
Cross Creek village. In 1836 they came to his 
father's farm in this county, whence in 1840 they 
went to Allegheny county, finally returning to 
Washington county in 1844. In 1855, by pur- 
chase, he became owner of his father's farm in 
"Pensacola." In 1859 he deeded 103 acres of 
his farm to his son, James M. K. Reed, in consider- 
ation of $4,000, and the remainder was left to 
John C. Reed, who is residing on the old home- 
stead. To William and Isabella (Curry) Reed 
were born children as follows: Eliza J., June 14, 
1829, died October 25, 1890, unmarried; James 
M. K, September 5, 1831; Isabella M., January 
16, 1836, married Eli Marquis, and died Decem- 
ber 28, 1865, leaving one daughter, Flora M. 
Pyles, of Orange county, Cal. ; and John O, March 
6, 1838, residing on the old homestead. The 
father of these children died in February, 1877, 
the mother October 1, 1849. William Reed was 
much honored in his community, taking an active 
interest in the general welfare of the county, and 
holding various positions of trust and honor in his 



826 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



township. He was a member of the Presbyterian 
Church, and a trustee of the same. 

J. M. K. Reed received a liberal common-school 
education, and at the age of twenty years began 
teaching a district school. In the spring of 1852 
he entered Pittsburgh Commercial College, from 
which he graduated. During the following summer 
he studied privately under the instruction of 
Robert Curry, Ph. D., principal of Canonsburg 
union schools, and then again taught school, con- 
tinuing until 1860, during the winter months. 
One summer he taught with Dr. Curry in Wist 
Manchester (now a part of Allegheny), and one 
summer was professor of penmanship in the New 
Brighton Female Seminary, established by Dr. 
Curry. 

On October 28, 1858, Mr. Reed married Miss 
Mary P. Tucker, who was born in Merrimack 
county, N. H., a daughter of David and Clarissa 
Tucker, who in 1849 removed to Richland county, 
Ohio. John Tucker, grandfather of Mrs. Reed, 
came from Scotland to New Hampshire, and he was 
a son of Ezra, who was a son of Jacob. David 
Tucker was a prominent man in New Hampshire, 
was a justice of the peace, and prior to his mar- 
riage he went to Ohio, where he entered land, to 
which he afterward finally moved- Mrs. Reed, 
before marriage, taught several terms in common 
schools of Ohio. After marriage Mr. and Mrs. 
Reed settled on their present farm in Cross Creek 
township, their first residence thereon being a log 
house built in 1826 by an uncle, Hugh Reed, and 
which is still standing. In 1879 our subject 
erected the present fine house, and in 1889 his 
commodious barn. The children born to Mr. and 
Mrs. J. M. K. Reed were as follows: Clara Bell, 
born August 29, 1859 (a teacher in the public 
schools of Imperial, Allegheny Co., Penn.); Irene 
Jane, born January 24, 1861 (married June 2, 
1887, to John H. Chapman, and they now reside 
in Hanover township, Washington county); Clinton 
May, born May 1, 1864, died June 1, 1866; 
Alice Mary, born May 14, 1867 (a teacher); 
Mabel Blanche, born November 30, 1870; Alma 
Livonia, born June 12, 1874; and James Winlield, 
born January 30, 1878. The parents are members 
of the Cross Creek Presbyterian Church (in which 
Mr. Reed has been trustee several years; he was 
formerly member of the U. P. Church at Patter- 
son's Mills). Politically he is a Democrat, and has 
served as school director, auditor, supervisor, and 
he is now serving his fourth term (of five years 
each) as justice of the peace. He is one of the 
original incorporators, stockholders and directors 
of the Cross Creek Cemetery Association, and, 
being their secretary, largely assisted in laying 
out and starting their beautiful cemetery at Cross 
Creek village. 



r~\ OBERT GILLIS TAYLOR. Among the 

l^/y prominent agriculturists of East Bethlehem 

\f\^ township, the above named gentleman 

I) — occupies a leading place. He traces his 

v lineage back through the years to one 

Beriah Taylor, who was born in England, and, 

emigrating to America, settled in New Jersey. 

He was there married to Keziah Gaskill, who bore 

him eleven children, of whom Beriah is named; 

the parents died at a good old age. 

Beriah Taylor, son of Beriah and Keziah Taylor, 
was born June 18, 1785, and served in the war of 
1812. He learned the blacksmith's trade, and was 
married to Elizabeth Short, who was born Feb- 
ruary 8, 1786, in Virginia. She was a daughter 
of John Short, a native of Scotland, who, having 
been forbidden to leave his native land, concealed 
himself in the hull of an American-bound vessel 
until well out at sea. He setth-d in Virginia, and 
there was united in marriage with Alsie Craven, a 
native of Germany, who was then residing in 
Loudoun county, Va. John and Alsie Short reared 
a family of ten children, and died at an advanced 
age. To the marriage of Beriah and Elizabeth 
(Short) Taylor twelve children were born. The 
father died at the age of eighty-eight years. 

Caleb Taylor, son of Beriah and Elizabeth 
Tayor, was born April 15, 1811, and learned the 
wugon-maker's trade. He was married to Mary 
Gillis, daughter of Robert, and granddaughter of 
John Gillis, who was a native of Ireland. The 
grandfather was married in Old Erin to Mary 
Martin, and she bore him two sons, viz.: Robert 
and Samuel. These children came to America, 
locating in Huntingdon county, Penn. , where 
Robert Gillis was married, in October, 1814, to Agnes 
Porter, who was born June 20, 1787, and was a 
daughter of James and Sarah Porter. Robert and 
Agnes Gillis settled in Washington county, Penn., 
where their daughter Mary (who became the wife 
of Caleb Taylor) was born. Caleb and Mary Taylor 
were the parents of thirteen children, four of whom 
are yet living. The parents passed their lives in 
Washington county, where their father died 
August 3, 1870, followed by the mother July 30, 

I SMI. 

Robert Gillis Taylor was born December 1 3, 
1834, in Washington county, Penn., and attended 
the country schools of the locality of his birth. On 
September 30, 1861, he answered the call of his 
troubled country, and served thirteen months 
under Col. Joshua B. Howell, of Uniontown, Penn., 
as second lieutenant, in Company E, Eighty-Fifth 
P. V. I., but being attacked with partial paralysis 
he was obliged to resign his commission. After 
regaining his health Mr. Taylor was for two years 
receiving clerk for the A. V. R. R. at Pittsburgh, 
Penn., then became first clerk on one of the 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



827 



packets belonging to the Pittsburgh, Brownsville 
& Geneva Packet Company. In 1886 Gov. 
Pattison appointed him to fill the vacancy caused 
by the death of Moses McKeag, late commissioner 
of the Cumberland Road. Mr. Taylor is now 
engaged in agricultural pursuits on his farm, which 
is located four miles from West Brownsville, in 
East Bethlehem township. He is a loyal member 
of the Democratic party, and in 1887 was elected 
county commissioner of Washington county, 
having received 5,705 votes, which was next to the 
highest number on his ticket. Our subject was 
twice married: first, November 7, 1807, to Mary 
Ann, daughter of Nathan and Jane Tannehill, and 
three sons were born of this union: John William. 
August 28, 1869; Nathan T., April 4, 1872, died 
February 23, 1876, and James Robert, November 
29, 1875. The mother of these children dying 
August 21, 1876, Mr. Taylor married, on October 
27,1878, Ellen W., daughter of Zephaniah and 
Aun W. Crawford. The sons of Mr. Taylor are 
attending school, John William studying for the 
ministry. 




\ILLIAM DENNISTON sailed from Ireland 
in 177-1, and a short time after landing in 
America he enlisted as a soldier in the 
war of the Revolution. After peace was 
declared he settled in Chester county, 
Penn., and afterward married Elizabeth Wilson, 
daughter of an early pioneer. A few years later 
they moved to Allegheuy county, same State, and 
settled on Chartiers creek, on the old Neville farm, 
so famous as the scene of the Whisky Insurrection. 
Their family consisted of the following children: 
Nancy Abbie, Mary, Thomas, Sarah, Samuel, 
Joseph and William. In the year 1827 three of 
tlir sons — Samuel, Joseph and William — purchased 
the Jacob Long farm in Peters township, Washing- 
ton Co., Penn., whither they moved with their 
parents. The father died in 1842, the mother in 
1846, and both are buried in the cemetery at Cen- 
tre Church. 

Samuel Denniston was born February 27, 1796, 
in Allegheny county, and April 21, 1836, was mar- 
ried to Elizabeth, daughter of William Caldwell. 
They lived on the farm near Thompsonville until 
April 1, 1839, when they bought the William James 
farm in Union township, same county. Here he 
conducted an extensive farming business, giving 
his attention chiefly to that of sheep and cattle 
raising. In 1S50 he erected all necessary build- 
ings. In 1851 the mother died leaving the follow- 
ing children: William, John W. (deceased), Mary 
J., Elizabeth, Thomas and Sarah A. (deceased). On 
March 17, 1853, Mr. Denniston married Elizabeth 
Applegate, and two children were the result of this 
marriage: James A. and Rachel N. (both de- 



ceased). In politics he was a strong advocate of 
the principles embodied in the Republican party.' 
In religion he held to the faith of his father who 
was a rigid Presbyterian. He died September 7, 
1879, and was buried in Mingo cemetery, Union 
township. 

William Denniston, son of Samuel and Elizabeth 
(Caldwell) Denniston, was born February 11, 1838, 
near Thompsonville, Peters township. On August 
19, 1861, he, with many other brave boys of Union 
township, in answer to their country's call, enlisted 
in Company I, First Pennsylvania Reserve Caval- 
ry, under Col. George D. Bayard. After return- 
ing home he remained on the farm until 1870, when 
he spent a year in the West. The father died in 
1879. William and his brother Thomas have 
managed the farm, giving their attention princi- 
pally to stock raising. 

Thomas Denniston was born May, 19, 1847. On 
August 14, 1884, he was married to Marian V., 
daughter of Isaac Lytle, Esq., of Gastonville. 
They, with their two children, Lawrence and Helen, 
live at the old home. 




ILLIAM COULTER, a wealthy and lead- 

1/ ing citizen of Monongahela, was born No- 
vember 11, 1817, in western Pennsylva- 
nia. His father, James Coulter, was 
born in Ireland, and when but six years 
of age came with his parents to America. They 
first located in western Pennsylvania, then came to 
Williamsport (now Monongahela), Washington Co. , 
Penn. When a young man James Coulter was 
married to a Miss Blakney, who lived but a short 
time, and his second choice was Nancy Nichols, 
who resided near Pittsburgh, Penn. She bore him 
children as follows: Raphael B. (deceased), Will- 
iam, James (deceased), and Robert. The father 
was a Whig and Republican in politics, and in re- 
ligious faith a member of the Presbyterian Church. 
He passed the remainder of his life in Mononga- 
hela, and was killed while hauling a load of fodder, 
having been thrown from a wagon, whereby his leg 
was broken above the ankle. He died in 1823, 
from the effects of the injury, at the age of sixty- 
nine years, and was followed to the grave by his 
wife in 1843. 

William Coulter came to Monongahela in 1817, 
and received his education in one of the earliest 
subscription schools, which he attended during the 
winter season only. At the age of fourteen years 
he began working in a brickyard, where he re- 
mained three years. He then learned and com- 
pleted the carpenter and millwright trades, to 
which most of his time has since been devoted, 
having taken contracts in different portions of 
Washington county. In February, 1840, he mar- 
ried Rebecca, daughter of James Collins, of 



828 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Monongahela. She died in 1856, leaving eight chil- 
dren, all now deceased. For his second wife Will- 
iam Coulter was married June 25, 1857, to Forbes, 
a daughter of William Stoekdale, of Carroll town- 
ship, this county. Her father was born in County 
Down, Ireland, where he grew to manhood and 
was married to Jane Manown; they came to Amer- 
ica in 1811, and first settled on a farm in Alle- 
gheny county, Penn., afterward locating in Wash- 
ington county, same State. He followed fanning 
all his life, and in politics he was a Whig. Will- 
iam Stoekdale died in 1851, in Washington county, 
Penn., having been preceded by his wife in 1834; 
who had borne him children as follows: Sarah, 
John, Rachel. Richard, Margaret, James, William, 
Eliza J., Forbes (Mrs. Coulter) and Robert, To 
the union of William and Forbes (Stoekdale) Coul- 
ter the following children have been born: Sarah, 
William, Ella, Carrie, P. Sheridan and Robert, 
all living except William and Robert, Mr, Will- 
iam Coulter has been the architect of his own 
fortune, and has ever made the interests of the 
community identical with his own. In politics he 
was originally a Whig, and now votes with the 
Republican party, and he has served as a mem- 
ber of the council and school board. 



THE SAMPSON FAMILY, who are among 
the most influential and wealthy citizens of 
Carroll township, were originally natives of 
Westmoreland county, Penn., where Will- 
iam Sampson was burn in 1765. He was 
married in that State to Mary-Nill (who bore him 
four children), and some time after his marriage 
the family came to Washington county, where the 
father died in 1815. 

James Sampson, son of William and Mary 
Sampson, was born February 5, 1S06, just above 
Webster, on the Monongahela river, in Westmore- 
land county, Penn. He came with his parents to 
Washington county in 1810, and in 1840 was mar- 
ried to Mary Grant, a native of the last named 
county. She bore him seven children, of whom are 
named William T., Harvey J. and John G. The 
mother died in 1888. James Sampson has carried 
on a distillery for twenty years in connection with 
farming, and now owns 1,250 acres of land. He 
was president of the People's Bank of Mononga- 
helaCity for twenty two years, and is one of the 
leading citizens of Washington county. 

Harvey J. Sampson was born April 21, 1850, in 
Carroll township, Washington Co., Penn., and was 
reared to agricultural pursuits. On February 17, 
1876, hi' married Miss Jennie P. Yorty, a native of 
Westmoreland county, Penn., and daughter of 
John and Nancy (Brewer) Yorty, prominent citi- 
zens of Carroll township, now deceased. Harvey 
J. and Jennie B. Sampson are the parents of the 



following children: Bertie O., born June 17, 18/7; 
Grace L., born September 19, 1879; James E., 
born April 11, 1881; Ada E., born August 4, 1885; 
Frank H., born February 20, 1ISS8, and Ethel J., 
born September 8, 1890. Mr. Sampson is a very 
progressive and enterprising citizen, and, polit- 
ically, affiliates with the Republican party. He 
owns 276 acres of land in Carroll township, and 
breeds some of the best trotting horses in Wash- 
ington county. 



PEV. WILLIAM R. M'KEE. the earnest 
and well-known pastor of the United Pres- 
byterian Congregation of Robinson, traces 
^ his lineage back to one Joseph M'Kee, a 
native of the North of Ireland, who immi- 
grated to this country near the close of the last 
century, and located on a farm in Jefferson county, 
Ohio. His wife was a Miss Ramsey, of that county, 
and to them were born nine sons and two daughters. 
Two of their sous are still living: Joseph (a min- 
ister in Los Angeles, Cal.), and Ralston (a farmer 
near Mansfield, Ohio). Mr. M'Kee was a promi- 
nent citizen of eastern Ohio, being called to serve 
as a member of the first Legislature of the State of 
Ohio, and as associate judge of Jefferson county 
for a number of years. He was also a ruling elder 
in the Associate Presbyterian Congregation of 
Mount Pleasant, Ohio, for many years. He died 
af the advanced age of ninety-five. 

James M'Kee, the father of the subject of this 
sketch, was born February 6, 1800, and reared on 
the home farm in Jefferson county. When a young 
man he followed the profession of teaching for 
some time. He was able to take a class in arith- 
metic as far as through the "Single rule of three,*' 
corresponding to the first case of proportion in 
modern text books. This was as far as classes in 
common schools were usually taken in arithmetic 
in those days. On February 27, 1821, he was 
married to Miss Susanna Ramsey, who bore him 
one daughter, Jane. The mother died April 18, 
1822, and for his second wife Mr. M'Kee married 
Miss Martha Humphry, who was born November 
3, 1791, in Ohio county, W. Va. She was a 
daughter of Robert Humphry, a soldier of the 
Revolutionary war, and among the many engage- 
ments in which he participated are mentioned: 
Bunker Hill, Brandywine and Germantown, 
Shortly after the close of the war he was married, 
and the young couple settled in what was then the 
wilds of Virginia, within the bounds of what is now 
known as Ohio county, W. Va., but near to the Penn- 
sylvania line. They were many times compelled to 
flee from their home to the fort, for safety from the 
Indians, the last time when the infant daughter Mar- 
tha was three weeks old. Mr. Humphry laid out the 
village of West Alexander, Penn., on one of his 






•'1 




/2-^^ 



^--^C-o- £--£, / 




f- 



5fcu 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



831 



farms, calling it. for bis wife, whose maiden name 
was Jane Alexander. Five children were born to 
the union of James and Martha M'Kee, viz. : Rob- 
ert and John (who both died in boyhood), Joseph 
(a physician of Denver,Colo.), James A. (for twenty - 
seveu years pastor of the TJ. P. Congregation of 
Wheeling, five miles south of Claysville in this 
county, now of Emporia, Kans. ) and William R. 
The father and mother both died in Washington, 
Iowa, the former August 1, 1873, the latter March 
17. 1866. 

William R. M'Kee was born in Ohio county, 
W. Va., September 13, 1832. His father's fanihy 
removed to Ohio, settling when he was seven years 
old on a farm near Wooster, Wayne county. Here 
they lived until he was sixteen, and then removed 
to Harrison county, Ohio, near to New Athens, the 
seat of Franklin College, from which institution 
he graduated September 8, 1854. After spending 
one year in teaching he commenced the study of 
medicine, but, before completingthe course, aban- 
doned it, and entered the United Presbyterian 
Theological Seminary of Xenia, Ohio, where he 
graduated in the spring of 1859, and was licensed 
to preach the Gospel April 19, 1859, by the U. P. 
Presbytery of Wheeling, inthecity of Wheeling, 
W. Va. During his miuistry of thirty-three years 
he has had but two -charges, both substantial 
country congregations. His first settlement was 
in the congregation of West Hebron, Washington 
Co., N. Y. , where he was ordained and installed, 
September 19, 1860. Here he remained until the 
fall of 1867. On April 30, 1863, he was united in 
marriage with Miss Frances Lytle, of Xenia, Ohio. 
Her father was born and reared in Mifflin, Penn. 
On April 15. 1821, he married Miss Fannie Smart, 
of Huntington, Penn., a granddaughter of Rev. 
John Smart, who came to this country from Scot- 
land in 1701. and a sister of Revs. J. P. and John 
G. Smart, well-known ministers of the U. P. 
Church. To them were born John S. (long a 
wholesale dry-goods merchant of Dayton, Ohio), 
David and James P. (boot and shoe merchants of 
Cincinnati, Ohio), Robert (of the Second National 
Bank, Xenia, Ohio), Rachel Mary, J. Smith, Mar- 
garet Jane (deceased), and Frances. When 
Frances was six years old the family removed to 
Ohio, settling on a farm in Greene county; after- 
ward they located in Xenia, where she graduated 
from the Union Female Seminary, an institution 
conducted for several years under the superintend- 
ence of Mrs. Hannah, of Washington, Penn. To 
Mr. and Mrs. M'Kee have been born three daugh- 
ters: Martha Luella, Etta Lytle (Mrs. D. J. Mc- 
Cabe, Coraopolis, Penn.) and Emma Jane (de- 
ceased). 

On October 18, 1869, Mr. M'Kee was installed 
pastor of Robinson Congregation, by the Presby- 
tery of Frankfort. Here he has remained to the 



present time, February, 1893, a period of twenty- 
three and one-half years, being, we believe, the 
longest present existing pastorate, with one excep- 
tion, in all those parts of Pennsylvania and Wesl 
Virginia bounded by the Pan Handle Railroad and 
the Ohio river. This charge has been no sinecure. 
Being almost ten miles long from north to south and 
seven miles wide from east to west it has given him 
almost, incessant labor, and yet he believes that few 
pastors have found fields of labor affording them 
a higher degree of pleasure than has he. In this 
field he has met with a good degree of success. 
While no great revivals have marked their career, 
yet there has been a steady growth in numbers and 
efficiency. Although situated entirely in the 
country, and in a community where almost all the 
families are in connection with some church, with 
but little emigration into it. but subject to the 
usual depletion by death, emigration from it. and 
especially that drain of our young men to the cities, 
which is telling so fearfully on all of our country 
churches, it has increased in membership from 1 10 
to 200. Never in. all these years has there been a 
deeper sympathy or more cordial feeling than ex- 
ists between this pastor and his people to-day, 
and never has his work, and theirs with him, been 
more efficient for good than it is to-day. It is 
\ pleasant to close this sketch with such a record, 
and we but echo the wish of especially the Chris- 
tian people of this county, that the days of one so 
long and favorably known among us may yet be 
many, and that his last days may be his best days, 
both in usefulness and in happiness. 



< 



Mi RS. JOANNA BOONE is a daughter of 
Samuel K. Weirich, now a resident, of 
Washington borough, and the widow of 
— ' James M. Boone, to whom she was united 
in marriage April 23, 1863. 
James M. Boone (deceased) was born March 29, 
L829, in Washington county, Perm., a sou of James 
M. and Margaret (Miller) Boone, who were of Irish 
descent. He passed his youth on the farm, where 
he received a good education. He inherited and 
also acquired habits of sobriety and industry, to 
which much of his success in life was due. After 
his marriage to Miss Weirich. he lived in Canton 
township, Washington county, until 1871, when 
he removed to the place in Buffalo township, which 
is situated on the line of the B. & O. R. R., 
Chartiers Station. Mr. and Mrs. Boone had the 
following children: Mattie, Edwin, Susie, Anna, 
Emma (wife of David Moore) and Maggie (who is 
married to Robert W. Davis, of Canton township, 
Washington county, son of Dr. R. W. Davis). 
The unmarried children are living on the home 
farm with their mother. James M. Boone was 
esteemed by all who knew him, being a devout 



832 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Christian man, benevolent, almost to a fault. He 
believed that an abundance of worldly goods is in- 
trusted to some men by the Creator for the purpose 
of doing good, and that "he that giveth to the 
poor, lendeth to the Lord"' — a Bible precept to 
which he strictly adhered. The truth of a com- 
panion saying: "Cast thy bread upon the waters, 
and after many days it shall return to thee," was 
forcibly illustrated in the life of Mr. Boone. He 
had an abundance of property which was acquired 
by industry and enterprise, and the advancement 
of the Master's cause was ever uppermost in his 
mind. His earnest efforts in the church will long 
be remembered. Some men are practically dead 
even while existing, and others, though their 
" tenement of clay " has crumbled to its primitive 
dust, yet live in the lives and hearts of others, ex- 
erting a powerful influence for good. We do not 
exaggerate the simple truth when we affirm that 
•James M. Boone was a good example of the latter 
class, and none can estimate the good inculcated 
by his life on both the present and future of W;ish 
ington county. He passed away December 23, 
1891, after a protracted illness of three months. 




S. THOMPSON, a prominent farmer of 
Mt. Pleasant township, is a son of Allen 
Thompson, who was a son of Allen Thomp- 
son, a native of eastern Pennsylvania, 
who, when a young mau, came to Washington county. 
About the year 1812 Allen Thompson (1) was 
married to Martha Lindsay, and. settling on the 
farm in Mt. Pleasant township adjoining the pres- 
ent home of W. S. Thompson, passed his life in 
the county. His wife died in 1871. 

Allen Thompson, son of the pioneer Allen, was 
born in February, 1824, on the home farm in Mt. 
Pleasant township, where he remained during his 
boyhood. In 1848 he was united in marriage with 
Mary Jane Griffith, who was born in June, 1827, 
in Chartiers towrfehip, a daughter of Samuel and 
Elizabeth (Boone) Griffith. Samuel Griffith was 
born in Maryland, and when a boy came with his 
parents to Buffalo township, this county. He was 
married in Chartiers township to Elizabeth Boone, 
a native of Delaware, and settled in Chartiers town- 
ship, this county, where he died in 1869 at the 
age of seventy years. In 1888 his wife was laid 
to rest by his side. They were both members of 
Miller's Run Presbyterian Church. In 1849 Al- 
len Thompson and his young wife came to Mt. 
Pleasant township, settling in 1852 on the home 
farm, which was then owned by one Guthrie. Three 
children were born to this couple: Nancy M. (mar- 
ried to James Kerr, of Chartiers township, this 
county), W. S. (subject of this sketch) and Martha 
Elizabeth (wife of Hamilton Crawford, of North 
Strabane township). The father followed carpen- 



tering and farming in Mt. Pleasant township, 
afterward moving to Cecil township, this county, 
where he died in 1853. He was a member of 
Miller's Run Presbyterian Church. In 1872 his 
widow (who is yet living) was married to William 
Havs (a native of Chartiers township), who died 
in April, 1881. 

W. S. Thompson was born February 22, 1851, 
in Mt. Pleasant township, this eounty, and was 
educated in the McNary's district school in Char- 
tiers township. In 1878 he was married to Mat- 
tie Henry, a native of Cecil township, and daugh- 
ter of Samuel and Martha (McConnell) Henry, 
also natives of Cecil township, this county, who 
died many years ago. After his marriage W. S. 
Thompson remained in Chartiers township until 
ISSit, when he bought eighty-two acres of land in 
Mt. Pleasant township, where he has since resided; 
he has made many improvements, and erected a 
good house and barn upon the farm. His wife 
died in 1883, leaving two children to mourn her 
death: Lizzie M. and Mattie Henry. In 1885 Mr. 
Thompson was united in marriage with Belle Bar- 
nett, a native of Chartiers township, daughter of 
Ephraim Barnett. The latter was born and reared 
in Chartiers township, this county, and was mar- 
ried to Sarah Willard, a native of Cecil township, 
this county. They lived in Chartiers township, 
where Ephraim Barnett died in 1876; his widow 
is yet living on the homestead. 

W. S. and Belle (Barnett) Thompson have had 
one child, Boyd Barnett. Mr. Thompson is a 
Republican, but casts his ballot for the l^est man, 
regardless of party preferences. In religious con- 
nection he and his wife are members of Miller's 
Run Presbyterian Church, in which he is a ruling 
elder. 



TEPHEN D. MILLER, a well-known citi- 
zen of Aniwell township, is a son of Joseph 
Miller, whose father emigrated from Ire- 
land, and located in Greene county, Penn., 
where Joseph was born February 1, 1791. 

Joseph Miller learned the carpenter's trade, 
cabinet making and undertaking, and in the course 
of his wide experience in the latter vocation was 
called on to bury the remains of Rev. Solomon 
Spauiding, who wrote the romance entitled "Man- 
uscript Found,'' on which, it is claimed, the "Book 
of Mormon'' was founded. In the war of 1812 
Joseph Miller became a member of Capt. William 
Patterson's military company, and was sent to 
Black Rock, on the Niagara river. He saw no 
active service, but remained there with his com- 
pany until they were ordered into winter quarters, 
when the volunteers returned home on furlough, 
and Mr. Miller's company traveled on foot through 
southern New York to Amwell township, Washing- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



833 



ton county. It was a toilsome and adventurous 
journey, over several feet of crusted snow, at times 
guided only by a narrow Indftn trail, traveling 
twenty-eight miles, one day, with no human 
habitation in sight. Joseph and a comrade were 
obliged to carry, besides their own burdens, an- 
other brother who was sick; but they finally arrived 
home the day before Christmas, after having been 
thirteen days on the route. On March 4, 1813, 
Joseph Miller was married to Parmelia Harris, of 
Amwell township, Washington county, and then 
began work on the farm in the same township, 
which is now owned by George Swart, in 1M6 mov- 
ing to the farm now owned by A. J. Swart. Joseph 
and Parmelia Miller had the following named 
children: Nehemiah, Mulvina (deceased), William 
(deceased), John F., Benjamin (deceased), Tunis 
and Stephen D. Mr. Miller owned a farm of 
forty-two acres near the village of Ten-Mile, in 
Amwell township, and was considered a good busi- 
ness man. In politics he was formerely an Old- 
line Whig, afterward becoming a Republican. He 
was an elder in the Cumberland Presbyterian 
Church, of which he and his wife were members 
for many years. Mrs. Miller died in 1862, and 
Mr. Miller followed her, April 12, 1885, in his 
ninety-fifth year. 

Stephen D. Miller was born August 29, 1833, 
in Morris township, Washington Co., Penn., and 
acquired but a meager education in the public 
schools of the neighborhood, which, however, he 
made a good practical use of. On August 11, 
1853, he was united in marriage with Elizabeth 
Baldwin, of Amwell township, and their children 
were as follows: John F., born December 11, 1854, 
died January 11, 1855; William, born March 28, 
1860, was killed June 29, 1870; Emma Frances, 
born March 20, 1864; Phcebe Jane, born Decem- 
ber 25, 1865; John B. , born January 1, 1870; and 
Thomas and Elizabeth (twins), born October 10, 
1872. The mother of this family dying October 
22, 1872, Mr. Miller married, April 30, 1873, 
Sarah McCracken, who bore him the following 
children: Herbert McCracken, born February 18, 
1874; Clark H, born November 16, 1875; Effie Z., 
born December 20, 1 877 ; Myrtie Iona, born April 
24, 1879, and Melville D., born March 2, 1882. 

After his first marriage Mr. Miller began work in 
a sawmill, disposing of which he worked the Evans 
farm three years, and in 1867 purchased the farm 
of eighty-five acres where he has since resided, en- 
gaged in general agriculture, and also following the 
undertaking business; by industry and good man- 
agement he has been most successful. In politics 
he has been a Republican ever since the formation 
of the party, having voted for John C. Fremont, 
the first candidate in that party for President. 
He has been treasurer of the school board twelve 



years, and is now road commissioner. Mr. Miller 
and the greater part of the family are members of 
the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. 



place 



AMUEL C. IMHOFF, one of the young and 
energetic farmers of Canton township, was 
born August 16, 1863, upon the farm where 
he still resides, and which was also the birth- 
of his father. Very little is known of the 
grandfather of our subject, except that he was a 
native of eastern Pennsylvania, and died in middle 
life, leaving the following children: George, 
William,. Henry, Samuel and two daughters. 
Samuel Imhoff was born December 30, 1816, and 
although receiving but a limited education, he pos- 
sessed a strong mind which easily grasped the 
knotty problems of life, and came from each con- 
test fresh and vigorous, ready for another battle. 
In early manhood he went to California, and re- 
mained there six years. He was married to Mary 
J. Stewart, a resident of Canton township, and she 
bore him only one child. Samuel C. Mr. Imhoff 
was originally a Whig, later becoming an active 
worker in the Republican ranks; in religious faith 
he was a member of the Presbyterian Church. He 
died in December, 1874, and was followed by his 
wife March 22, 1881. They both rest in the Upper 
Buffalo cemetery. 

Samuel C. Imhoff attended the common schools 
of the neighborhood during his minority, and 
when old enough assumed the management of the 
farm, upon which he has always lived. On Jan- 
uary 28, 1886, he married Emma J., daughter of 
James Smiley, of Cross Creek township, and they 
have two children: Mary S., born November 21, 
1886, and James O, bora May 19, 1889. He is 
an energetic supporter of the Republican party, 
and, with his family, is a member of the United 
Presbyterian Church of North Buffalo. 




H. WINGET (deceased) was a native of 
Washington, Washington Co., Penn., born 
November 24, 1818. His father, Moses 
Wiuget, removed in an early day from New 
Jersey to Washington county, Penn. , where he 
purchased land and reared a large family, giving 
them such educational advantages as the neighbor- 
ing schools afforded. Reared under these auspices, 
young Mr. Winget began life as a farmer, which 
vocation he followed during the whole of his life. 
By dint of energy and economy he had amassed a 
comfortable fortune at the time of his death. 

He was married February 28, 1838, to Miss 
Matilda, a daughter of William Garrett, who 
moved from Maryland in the early days to Har- 
rison county, Ohio, and thence to Lancaster, Ohio, 



'- 






834 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



where ilrs. Winget was born. To the union of B. 
H. and Matilda Winget were born twelve children, 
seven of whom are living, as follows: Caroline M. , 
Theodore, Mary E., Osborne, Florella A., Steven 
and Clara. Mr. Winget died in 1878, and Mrs. 
Winget and the family still reside on the farm, 
which is located just outside of Sparta, in Morris 
township. 



Pli W. MILLER. Among the representative 

/ \\ and prosperous agriculturists of Chartiers 
lf^\ township, A. W. Miller is prominently 
J —^ identified. His grandfather, Andrew Miller, 
was born and reared in Ireland, where he 
was married to Sarah Steele, and came to America 
about 1800. He first located on the road from 
Hickory to Canonsburg, on a farm in Mt. Pleasant 
township, and then moved to a place one mile and 
a half northwest of Hickory, this county, afterward 
settling on the farm on the north fork of Chartiers 
creek, which is now occupied by our subject. Their 
children were James, Thomas, Andrew and Jane. 

James Miller was born in 1812, in Mt. Pleasant 
township, this county, and was reared on the home 
farm. He attended Jefferson College, and after 
graduating read law in Washington with Hon. 
Isaac Leet, being admitted to the bar in 1840. In 
the same year he was united in marriage with Mary 
Watson, who was born in 1820, in Canonsburg, 
daughter of John Watson, a native of Pennsylva- 
nia. After his marriage Mr. Miller moved to 
Wooster, Ohio, there following his profession, and 
taking an active part in the politics of Wayne 
county, Ohio. He was a member of the Seceder 
Church, afterward uniting with the United Presby- 
terian Church. After his death, which occurred 
in 1S44, Mrs. Miller returned to Mt. Pleasant 
township, this county, then moved to Houstonville, 
where she is now residing. She is the mother of 
two children: A. W., and Mary E. (wife of A. T. 
Haft, of Houstonville). 

A. W. Miller was born September 27, 1841, in 
Wooster, Wayne Co., Ohio, and was the eldest of 
his father's family. He was brought to this county 
when but a child, reared in Mt. Pleasant and Char- 
tiers townships, and received a subscription school 
education. On November 25, 1861, he was united 
in marriage with Allie A., daughter of Levi and 
Margaret (McClellan) Griffith. Mr. Griffith was 
a carpenter and builder, who located near Canons- 
burg after his marriage, and there followed his 
trade for many years. He died in 1886 in Canons- 
burg, where his widow is yet living. 

Mr. and Mrs. Miller settled on the old farm 
where his grandfather located in 1848, and the 
following children have blessed their union: George 
B. (married, and in the boot and shoe business at 
Mansfield, Allegheny Co., Penu. ), Ida (wife of 



Samuel Morgan, of Chartiers township), Minnie, 
Andrew (a merchant of Pittsburgh, Penn.), James 
(a boot and shoe merchant at Kensington, Alle- 
gheny Co., Penn.), Edward, Clarence and Alvin, 
the last three named living at home. The home 
farm consists of 177 acres of good land, which is 
well improved, and is adorned with a fine brick 
resideuce and good outbuildings. Mr. Miller 
devotes a considerable portion of his time to raisiug 
a fine grade of stock. He is actively interested in 
politics, voting with the Democratic party, as did 
his fathers before him. He has served as super- 
visor of Chartiers township, as a member of the 
school board, and has always been interested in 
school matters. He ami his wife are members of 
the United Presbyterian Church at Houstonville, of 
which he is a trustee. 



AMUEL SMITH, one of the leading citizens 
of Canonsburg, is a son of Christopher 
Smith, who was born, reared and educated 
in Washington county. In early manhood 
he was united in marriage with Sarah, daughter of 
Reuben Hull, a native of this county. The follow- 
ing children were born to this marriage: Andrew, 
William, Robert, John, Richard, Samuel, May 
bury, J. P., Elizabeth (wife of George Shields)and 
Lydia (Mrs. George Buchanan). The father of 
this family was a farmer and stock raiser; he had 
purchased an unimproved farm in Smith township, 
where he always resided. He was a Whig, and in 
religions faith was connected with the Raccoon 
Presbyterian Church from the time of its first 
organization. He died in 1814, and was buried by 
the side of his wife in the Raccoon cemetery. 

Samuel Smith was born in March, 1812, on the 
home farm in Smith township, this county, and 
attended the log cabin subscription school of the 
vicinity. In 1828 he went to Guernsey county. 
Ohio, becoming the apprentice of Samuel Lawrence, 
a tanner, with whom he remained four and one half 
years. At the expiration of that time he returned 
to Pennsylvania, and opened a tannery in Canons- 
burg, which he has since conducted. In 1835 he 
was united in marriage with Mary, daughter of 
John McCoy. North Strabane township, this 
county, and she dying July 20, 1855, he was mar- 
ried October 3, 1856, to Mary, daughter of Stewart 
Goshorn, and she bore him children as follows: 
Tryphenia I Mrs. B. C. Arnold). Samuel C. Mr-. 
Joseph Carter, Mary (wife of Alvin Forsythe), 
George Y. and Sadie. The mother of these chil- 
dren died February 4, 1865, and on December 10, 
1S7:'>, Mr. Smith was married to Ella Hanna, and 
after her death to Sarah J., daughter of Daniel 
Gault. 

Politically Mr. Smith was a Whig, and has been 
a Republican since the organization of the latter 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



835 



party, and has taken an active part in local offices, 
especially those pertaining to school and borough 
interests. In religion he has for many years been 
a member of the U. P. Church at Canonsburg, and 
was also a member of the Session. He is a suc- 
cessful business man and prominent citizen. 




ILLIAM LOUGEAY GASTON. Among 
tin' citizens of Union township, whose 
names »are indissolubly associated with 
its history and general progress, is this 
well-known gentleman. His early an<:< is 
tors were natives of France, whence one Samuel 
Gaston emigrated to this country many years ago. 
He located in Washington county, Peun., on a tract 
of 350 acres, where his life was passed, he dying at 
about eighty years of age; he was buried in Mingo 
cemetery. He was twice married, and reared a 
large family of children. He was a member of 
the Presbyterian Church. 

William Gastou, son of Samuel Gaston, was born 
in 1808, in Gastonville. Union township. Washing- 
ton county, and attended school in the log school- 
house of the period. He was married to a Miss 
Morrison, who bore him two children, and died in 
1834. Mr. Gaston was a member of the I. O. O. 
F., and in politics voted with the Democratic 
party; in religious faith he was a Presbyterian. 
He gave his children a good education. He was a 
generous, kind-hearted, fine-looking man, and a 
friend to every one alike. He died in 18S4. 

Maj. James M. Gaston, son of William Gaston, 
was born in 1832, in Gastonville, Washington 
county. He attended the common schools, and 
then entered Washington and Jefferson College. 
In early life he married Matilda Ensell, of Pitts- 
burgh, Penn., a daughter of Edward Eusell, who 
was of English descent. Mr. and Mrs. Gaston 
resided in Lawrence county, Penn., for a short 
time after their marriage. He was a farmer by 
occupation, and during the latter part of his life 
was a sawyer and lumberman. Their children 
were as follows: Mary P., living in Gastonville; 
Ida S., wife of John McChain; Haddie B. ; Ed- 
ward, deceased in infancy, and William Lougeay. 
The father entered the Civil war as a volunteer, 
and served three years in the First Pennsylvania 
Cavalry; he was wounded three times, once at the 
battle of Gettysburg, and being taken sick while 
in the service, returned home to Washington 
county. Politically he was a Democrat, and in 
religion a member of the Methodist Church. He 
died September 8, 1885, in his fifty-sixth year. 

William Lougeay Gaston was born April 15, 
1861, in Gastonville, Penn. He received his edu- 
cation in the common schools of his native village, 
and attended Duff's Commercial College, Pitts- 



burgh. Beginning life without capital, Mr. Gas- 
ton has secured a snug property, having sue 
fully engaged in the lumber, sawmill and farming 
businesses, and is now conducting a butchery. In 
political opinion he is a Democrat. On Septem- 
ber 10, 1885, he was united in marriage with 
Emma, daughter of Frank P. Scott, M. D., of 
Monongahela, and she has borne him two children: 
Myrnaand Scott. Mr. and Mrs. Gaston are mem- 
bers of the Presbyterian Church. For ten years 
he resided at Gastonville. At present he is a resi- 
dent of Fiuleyville. 



AMUEL PROVINES was born in 1803, iu 
County Tyrone. Ireland. In about 1S12 
his parents, William and Rebecca (Hemp- 
hill) Provines, came fco America with their 
family of five children — Mary, Samuel. Andrew, 
John and Robert — landing at Philadelphia, where 
they remained some time, and then came farther 
west. Having but a limited supply of money, 
their manner of traveling was in the most econom- 
ical fashion, several members of the family walk- 
ing a considerable part of the distance. In about 
L813 they came to Washington county, Penn., first 
locating in Cherry Valley, where other children 
were born, viz.: Margaret, James, Sarah, Jane 
and Rebecca; later they removed to Jefferson 
township. 

Samuel Provines was reared to manhood on the 
farm of his father, receiving but limited opportu- 
nities for an education. In 1836 he was married 
to Isabella Gracey, a native of Cross Creek town- 
ship, this county, and daughter of John Gracey. 
To the union of Samuel and Isabella Provines 
children were born as follows: John (who now 
has charge of the home farm, together with his 
brother Andrew), William (a carpenter, of Denni- 
son, Ohio). James (a carpenter), Rebecca (living 
at home), Andrew (also at home), Margaret (living 
on the old place), Samuel (a carpenter, of Wells- 
burg, W. Va. ), Henry (deceased in early manhood) 
and Harper H. (a carpenter, of Wilmerding, Alle- 
gheny county). After his marriage, Samuel Pro- 
vines settled in Hanover township, on the farm 
which he had purchased before his marriage, and 
at the time it was nearly all covered with woods, 
which he cleared away. Although beginning life 
with comparatively nothing, he accumulated a 
good property. In politics he was a lifelong 
Democrat, and an ardent supporter of that party. 
He was called from the scene of his labors in 1877, 
and was followed to the grave by his wife in 1885; 
their remains rest in Burgettstown United Presby- 
terian Cemetery. They were both consistent mem- 
bers of the United Presbyterian Church. 



836 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



l\ Mi ORGAN L. DUNN, farmer, was born on 

\f,\- Ruff creek, Morgan township, Greene 
■ill Co., Penn., a son of Joseph and Jane 

J -* Dunn. His paternal grandfather, Isaac 
v Dunn, was born in eastern Virginia, and 

his boyhood days were passed in the place of his 
birth; but in early manhood he removed to Wash- 
ington county, Penn., which then included the ter- 
ritory that is now Greene county. He settled on 
Castile run, near the dividing line between Wash- 
ington and Greene counties, and here he lived and 
died. When he first came to Washington county 
he was offered land, now one of the finest farms in 
Greene county, in exchange for a horse. He was 
one of the pioneers of Washington county, and 
was respected and esteemed by all who knew 
him, for his integrity, enterprise and thrift. He 
was a soldier in the Revolutionary war, and his 
gallantry and bravery are already historical. Mr. 
Dunn's long life was one of hardship and toil. 
Labor was to him more a pleasure than a neces- 
sity, 80 accustomed had he become to it. He made 
many trips to Winchester, Va., trading farm prod- 
uce for salt, which was "racked" across the mount- 
ains in pack saddles, made of crooked roots and 
limbs of trees. His method of life, however, did 
not seem to affect his health, for he was one of the 
best preserved meu recorded within these pages. 
At the age of ninety-two years he bound wheat, 
and kept up with two cradles. He died at the ad- 
vanced age of ninety-seven. 

Joseph Dunn, the father of subject, was born in 
Greene county, Penn. In his early days he at- 
tended the subscription schools, but the principal 
part of his education was received under his 
father's personal supervision in learning the suc- 
cessful management of a farm. He married Jane, 
a daughter of James Martin, who emigrated from 
New Jersey to Washington county in its early days, 
the trip being made overland and in wagons. 
During the journey they passed many great tract 
of beautiful land, which might have become theirs 
for the asking; but they continued their journey 
toward the glorious West, the land of which they 
had heard so much, but had never seen. Accord 
ing to rumor, this land, which was called "Red I 
St one," was a veritable paradise; and they were 
immeasurably disappointed and disheartened to 
find, instead of this imaginary "Eden," nothing 
but dense woods. Reluctantly they went to work, 
clearing off the land on which they had Located. 
As there was no clearance in which to place the 
timber and underbrush cut down, they were obliged 
to burn great stretches of giant oaks. DuriDg the 
closing part of Mr. Martin's life he was obliged, 
for several years, to sleep in his chair, being un- 
able to rest in the natural position. The family of 
Joseph and Jane Dunn consisted of the following 
children: Washington, James M. (he went to Cali- 



fornia during the first gold excitement, and is liv- 
ing in that State to-day with his family), Morgan 
L., Joseph (a prominent merchant of Millsborough, 
East Bethlehem township), William (who, after 
serving in the Civil war under Capt. Crea, died 
soon after his return home, of disease contracted 
in the service; his widow, who survives him, re- 
ceives a pension secured her by the untiring efforts 
of our subject), John and Ann, both of whom were 
never married (they live in Washington township, 
Greene Co., Penn., John being fhere engaged in 
the nursery business). 

Morgan L. Dunn was born in 1824, and his boj 
hood was spent in much the same manner as that 
of his father. The little education he received 
was obtained at the subscription schools, almost 
the only kind the period afforded. At the break- 
ing out of the war of the Rebellion Mr. Dunn 
raised over $3,000 by subscription for substitutes 
in Washington and Greene counties. He has been 
married three times: his first wife was Phoebe 
Ann, a daughter of Mr. Taylor, whose father was 
a drummer in the Revolutionary war; to this union 
were born five children: Jane, Mary, George W.. 
Dorcas and Phoebe A. Jane is the wife of Milton 
Bigler, a Baptist minister, and resides in West 
Bethlehem township, this county; George W. lives 
in West Bethlehem township (he was married to 
Maria Hoover June 15, 1876, and three children 
have been born to them, viz.: Winston, Sherman 
and Elsie); Mary is the wife of George Hufford, 
and resides in Ten Mile, Washington count \ . 
Phcebe A. married Addison Swihart, and they re- 
side in Washington township, Greene Co., Penn. 
(none of the three married daughters had any T child- 
ren born to them). Mr. Dunn's second wife was 
Eliza Corwin, a daughter of William Corwin and a 
granddaughter of Stephen Corwin, prominent resi- 
dents of Washington county. This wife bore him 
the following children: William, a resident of 
Lone Pine, Amwell township, married Cora Gray, 
and two children have been born to them: Rerie 
and Murral; Flora, the wife of James Huffman, 
residing in Washington (they have three children: 
Frank. Willie and Lulu); Walter, a prominent farm- 
er of West Bethlehem township, married Maggie 
Yoders, and they had two children: one that died 
in infancyvmnd Myrtle, still living; Richard, who 
lives in Easn^jiberty, married Nannie Huffman, 
daughter of George Huffman, and Loualin, whore- 
sides at home with his father. The departure of 
Mrs. Dunn from this life was mourned not only by 
her husband and children, but by her numerous 
friends. Mr. Dunn married for his third wife 
Emma Curry, a daughter of Philip Curry, and to 
this union have been born two children: Arthur 
Extell and Earl Guy. 

Mr. Dunn is one of the best-known and most 
successful agriculturists in West Bethlehem town- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



837 



ship. He is also extensively engaged in stock 
raising — coach and Clydesdale horses and Merino 
sheep being his specialties. Politically he is a 
stanch Democrat. When a young man he was 
possessed of a splendid physique. He thought 
nothing of making 200 rails in one day, mow- 
ing three acres with a scythe or cradling 200 
dozen of wheat. 



JlOHN F. NICHOLSON, a leading jeweler of 
1 Monongahela, is descended from Irish ances- 
1 try. His grandfather, James Nicholson, was 
born in Ireland, and, immigrating to America 
in about 1790, settled in Union township, Wash- 
ington Co., Penn., locating in 1795 on his farm on 
Mingo creek. The land in that region was wild 
and covered with forests, but the hardy pioneer 
persevered until the dreary wilderness was trans- 
formed into a comfortable homestead. The chil- 
dren of this family were as follows: John, William 
McKendrie, James, Asa, Sarah (wife of Andrew 
Pierce), Mary, Jennie (wife of Matthew Murdy), 
Nancy (wife of James McAllister) and Elizabeth 
(wife of William Tidball). The father was a mem- 
ber of the M. E. Church, and in politics voted with 
the Whig party. For many years in those early 
days his home was the Methodist preaching place, 
services being held there every two weeks, on 
Saturdays, by Rev. Asa Shinn, who was succeeded 
in that work by Rev. George S. Holmes. 

William McKendrie Nicholson was born April 
21, 1820, on the home farm in Union township, 
Washington Co. , Penn. He attended the subscrip- 
tion and public schools, proved an eager reader 
and close student, and was trained from boyhood 
to agricultural pursuits, which he followed through- 
out life. He was married to Rachel, daughter of 
Samuel Morrison, of Nottingham township, and 
their children were: William Alvin, Arilinda J. (wife 
of E. J. McClure), John Fletcher, Violet A. 
(wife of Samuel McMillan), Flora B. (deceased), 
Sarah Adalaide, Clara Lucina (wife of George 
Kahl) and Laura Pricilla. Mr. Nicholson con- 
ducted a general store at Ginger Hill from 1844 
to 1840; then followed farming, but in 1887 re 
tired from active life. He has been an enthusi- 
astic leader in politics, has voted with the Whig 
and Republican parties, and has taken a special 
interest in school matters. In religion he is a 
member of the M. E. Church. Mrs. Rachel Nich- 
olson died in 1880. 

John Fletcher Nicholson was born April 21, 
1851, in Union township, Washington Co., Penn., 
and received a common-school education. In 
1872 he came to Monongahela, and opened the 
jewelry and music store, which he has since con- 
ducted. In 1877 he was united in marriage with 
Miss Sue E. Wilson, and their children are: 



Alverda, Jessie Rebecca, John Fletcher, James 
Bloomfield, Marjorie Ann and Louis McKendrie. 
Mr. Nicholson is a shrewd, honest business man, 
and enjoys a large and constantly increasing 
custom. He is an active member of the Repub- 
lican party, and has served two terms as treasurer 
of Monongahela, also as Congressional and Sena- 
torial conferre, as well as in various other offices. 
He was elected mayor at the February election and 
was duly sworn in to serve as mayor for one year 
from April 3, 1893. Mr. Nicholson shows his 
identification with the people of the city in their 
social and moral interests, by his church ami so 
ciety relations. He has been secretary of the 
Royal Arcanum Council for twelve years, is past 
master by service in the Masonic Lodge of this 
city, and is also a Royal Arch Mason. He is past 
grand in Nucleus Lodge of Odd Fellows, and was 
D. D. G. M for Washington county for three 
years. He is an Encampment member, and was 
D. G. P. for three years; he is a member of the 
American Mechanics, is deputy State councillor 
now, and a past chief in the order of the Golden 
Eagle. In this way he contributes largely to the 
social Orders, giving them part of his time and 
ability, and always for good. He is a member of 
the Methodist Episcopal Church, and is at present 
secretary of the Sabbath-school, which position 
he has acceptably filled for some time. 



H. HOUSTON, a leading dentist of Monon- 
gahela, is a grandson of Isaac Houston, who 
was a son of James Houston, who was born 
in this country of Scotch-Irish parents. 
He came with his family to Washington county, 
Penn., many years ago, and located in Buffalo 
township, where he died. 

Isaac Houston was born and reared on the home 
place in Buffalo township. He learned the trade 
of bricklayer and mason, which he followed most 
of his life. Politically he voted with the Demo- 
cratic party, and in religion he was a zealous mem- 
ber of the Presbyterian Church at East Buffalo. 
He was married to Nancy Ashbrook, who bore him 
ten children, among whom was a son James; the 
father died at the age of sixty-two years. 

James Houston, son of Isaac, was born Novem- 
ber 11, 1825, in Buffalo township, Washington 
Co. , Penn., where he learned his father's trade, 
and followed same for several years. In 1860 he 
moved to Washington borough, Penn., and is now 
doing a prosperous business. , He erected the 
First Presbyterian and United Presbyterian 
churches in that city, also built the brick work for 
the town hall. By unremitting effort he has 
achieved success. He has served the Democratic 
fmrty as a member of the council, and in other 
offices. In religion he is a member of the Third 



838 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Presbyterian Church. On March 22, 1855, James 
Houston was united in marriage with Martha, 
daughter of John Ramsey, and she has borne him 
four children: S. H., Flora M., and two who died 
when young. 

S. H. Houston was born May 3, 1860, in Wash- 
ington, Penn., and graduated from the high school 
of his native city. In 1877 he entered Washing- 
ton and Jefferson College, graduating in 1882 
with the degree of A. B. In 1884 he attended the 
dental department, of the University of Michigan, 
and the following year went to the Baltimore 
Dental College, from which he graduated in 1886. 
He then settled in Monongahela, where he has 
since practiced his profession. On September 29, 
1887, S. H. Houston was united in marriage with 
Margaret G. , daughter of William Power. They 
have three children: James Power, Rebecca 
Ramsey and Ada Florence. In 1S90 Dr. Houston 
was elected mayor of Monongahela City, and was 
re-elected in 1892. He is an ardent and valued 
member of the Republican party. 




J. ANDERSON, a prosperous farmer of 
Union township, is a grandson of John An- 
derson, who came from Ireland in 1771, 
and first settled in Beaver county, Penn. ' 
He was compelled to leave that section on 
account of the Indians, and prior to 1788, he hav- 
ing paid tax in that year, came to the place in 
Washington county, Penn., where his descendants 
are yet living. While living in Ireland he was 
married to Miss Elizabeth Bigger, who came with 
them to America. The descendants of Thomas 
Bigger, brother of Miss Elizabeth Bigger, now re- 
side in Robinson township, Washington county. 
To John and Elizabeth Anderson five children 
were born, viz. : James, Benjamin, Matthew, 
Martha and John, all born in Pennsylvania, except 
James, who was born in Ireland. In September, 
1786, he bought the farm on which the subject of 
this sketch now resides. 

John Anderson, the youngest son of John and 
Elizabeth, was born June ">, 1789, on the farm in 
Union township, Washington county, in a cabin 
which stood on the site now occupied by the house 
of W. J. Anderson. John Anderson was reared 
to farm life, and remained at home until 1843, 
when he was married to Miss Elizabeth Scott, a 
native of West Virginia, residing near East Liver- 
pool, Ohio, and they then settled on the home 
farm in Washington county. Penn., where he died 
June 3, 1868, followed by his wife, April 20, 1S73. 
The father was a stanch, " High-Tariff" Repub- 
lican. They had six children, viz. : W. J., two 
died in infancy, James G. (dead), Martha E. (mar* 
ried to J. C. Borland, of Peters township, now a 



grocer in Sewickley, Penn.), and Ada Y., who is 
living with her brother. W. J. 

W. J. Anderson was born January 22, 1*44. on 
the farm in Union township. Washington county. 
On December 21, 1876, he was married to Agnes, 
daughter of Thomas Kiddoo, and granddaughter of 
James Kiddoo, a native of England. The family 
are now residents of Allegheny county, Penn. Af- 
ter their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Anderson came 
to their present home, where he has been success- 
fully engaged in general farming. In politics he 
is a Republican, having held a number of town- 
ship offices, and in religion is a member of the 
Peters CreekUnited Presbyterian Church, in which 
he is also trustee. They conduct a small dairy in 
connection with the farm, and for twenty years 
have sold butter to W. J. Caskey & Co., Pitts- 
burgh. The home place contains eighty four 
acres of excellent land. Mr. and Mrs. Anderson 
had one child that died in infancy. 



HOMAS F. HILTON, a prominent and 
wealthy resident of Claysville, was born 
September 26, 183~>, in Chartiers township, 
Washington Co., Penn., and is descended 
T 7 of rugged ancestry, of the "Land of the 
mountain and the flood," that "Caledonia, stern 
and wild," immortalized so beautifully in verse 
and song by Scott and Burns. His grandfather, 
a native of Scotland, had four sons and one daugh- 
ter — William, Robert, Thomas, George and 
Margaret — all born in Scotland, and with his 
family immigrated to the United States, making a 
settlement in Chartiers and Buffalo townships, 
this county. 

George Hilton, father of Thomas F., was mar- 
ried in Scotland to a native of the same part, and 
they had children as follows: John, Robert, Mary, 
Jane, Sarah A., Isabelle, George James and 
Thomas F., all natives of Washington county. 
Mr. Hilton came with his father's family to this 
county, and here followed the trade of miller, which 
In- had learned in his native land. He died in 
1837, a member of the Presbyterian Church, and 
in politics a Whig; his wife was called to her long 
home in 1835. 

The early life of Thomas F. Hilton was passed at 
the home of Joseph Donahey, a resident of Buffalo 
township, and his education was received at the 
common schools of the district. On May 21, 1874, 
he was married to Sevena, a daughter of Benjamin 
Bartilson. of Hopewell township, and the results 
of this union were live children: Sadie, George, 
Mary, Benjamin and Roland (the latter being 
deceased). After marriage Mr. Hilton settled on 
a farm in Buffalo township, and here remained 
until 1NS9, when he moved into Claysville, and built 





&. 



/?/? 





#?</ 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



841 



his present residence, one of the finest in the 
borough. The family are all members of the 
Presbyterian Church at Claysville; in politics Mr. 
Hilton is a stanch Republican, and an active 
worker in the party: 



EILLA M. GREGG. The Gregg family were 
among the earliest settlers of East Pike 
Run township. Henry Gregg, Sr. , came 
— from Ireland to Pennsylvania, took up be- 
tween 300 and 400 acres of public land, and also 
purchased a tract from the Indians. He then sent 
for his brothers, John and William, and sister, 
Peggy. He was a bachelor, but raised many chil- 
dren to manhood and womanhood; he served as 
justice of the peace for many years. Margaret 
Gregg married Jacob Springer, who also came from 
Ireland, and her brother Henry gave her the farm 
on which Eli Williams now lives. The same Henry 
Gregg gave the farm (on which Mrs. Ann Hugans 
now lives) to his brother William, and a farm to 
his brother John, on the State Road between Pitts- 
burgh and Brownsville, where the " Black Horse" 
tavern stood, now owned by E. Richard. 

Ella M. Gregg's paternal great-grandfather, 
William Gregg, had five sous and one daughter, 
namely: Margaret, who married William Crow; 
Henry, who married Jane Dowler; John, who mar- 
ried Nancy Gregg; Andrew, who married Dorcas 
Nichols; William, who married Ruth Jackmau, and 
Robert, who married Ann Robison; they were all 
born in Ireland. Henry and Jane Dowler' s chil- 
dren were: Henry, Thomas, John, Robert, Seth, 
Israel and Edward. William Gregg had three 
sons — Robert (who married Mary West), Henry 
(who died in manhood) and Andrew (married to 
Mary Ann Hugans — and four daughters — Mary 
Ann (married to Jonathan West), Jemima (married 
to Robert Jackman), Sarah (married to Col. Frie) 
and Peggy (married to Henry Sphar). Henry 
Gregg has two sons living: William and John. 
John Gregg married Sadie Price. His brothers 
were: William and Henry (deceased). Henry and 
Nellie Gregg's children were: Jane, Ala, Nancy, 
Sarah and Emily. Andrew Gregg had three 
daughters and one son. Polly, when thirteen 
years old, married Andrew Moore, and gave birth 
to a sou in her fourteenth year. She subsequently 
married John Reeves, and by him had three chil- 
dren, Katy, Dacious and Jesse. Old Henry Gregg 
died on the farm now owned by Alexander Devaul. 
It was left to our subject's mother, but some one 
stole the will. The children of Robert and Ann 
(Robison) Gregg (grandparents of Ella M. Gregg) 
were: John R., William, Mary, Jane, Andrew, 
Ann, Harriet Matilda, all now deceased except 
Jane, Andrew and Ann. John R. married Sarah 
G. Wallace; William never married, and died ten 

40 



years ago; Andrew married Mary Ann Ailes. and 
had no issue; Jane married Daniel Williams, and 
had eight children (she resides in Ohio, and has 
ten great-grandchildren; of her children — John R. 
married Mary Peppers (he is a merchant in Coal 
Centre); Robert, (unmarried) resides in Coal Centre; 
Amanda married Caspar Williams, who resides on 
his farm near Brownsville; Ann married a farmer 
and lives in Ohio; Elizabeth married a Mr. Mill- 
horn; Eliza married an Ohio merchant; Keziah is 
unmarried); Ann married Thomas Hugans. a farmer, 
.and had two children: Sarah Jane (deceased), and 
Will (a bachelor, living on the old Hugans farm); 
Sarah Jane, married to Jehu West, and had one 
daughter, Deborah West. Mrs. Ann (Robison) 
Gregg's father settled in East Pike Run township 
in 1793, and was there married. He kept a tavern 
on the National pike for many years. Robert 
Gregg was actively identified with the Democratic 
party, and his wife was a member of the M. E. 
Church. He died May 19, 1872, aged ninety-two 
years, having been preceded by Mrs. Gregg in, 
1870. 

John R. Gregg, son of Robert and Ann (Robi- 
son) Gregg, was born April 5, 1810, in East Pike 
Run township, where he was reared and educated, 
then taught several terms of school in his native 
township; at one time he taught thirteen mouths 
without any vacation. On November 29, 1832, he- 
married Sarah G. Wallace, a native of this county, 
born May 1, 1812, and the young couple resided 
in East Pike Run township for a short time after 
their marriage. They then conducted a hotel for 
several years at Coal Centre, and Mr. Gregg after- 
ward engaged in mercantile business; he also 
served many years as postmaster. Politically he 
was identified with the Democratic party. He died 
April 17, 1885, in his seventy-fifth year. Mrs. 
Gregg was a member of the M. E. Church at Coal 
Centre. She died June 5, 1871, aged fifty-nine 
years, and left four children, namely: Ella M. ; 
Ann Jane, wife of L. W. Morgan, merchant, of 
California, Penn.; William Henry, living in Coal 
Centre, and married to Mary Lambert, and Mary 
E. , a member of the M. E. Church in Coal Centre, 
who died January 11, 1875. William Henry Gregg 
served four years during the Civil war as sergeant 
in Company I, First West Virginia Cavalry. Of 
his five children, John R., Lusetta Jane and Eliz- 
abeth M. are living. Ann Jane Gregg married 
L. W. Morgan, and of their seven children, Peto 
W. is cashier of the Pennsylvania Railroad Com- 
pany at Erwin depot; Albeit T. is principal of the 
Derry schools; Elizabeth is teacher in the Normal 
School at California, Penn. Ella M. Gregg, 
daughter of John R. and Sarah Gregg, repre- 
sents five generations of her family who have 
resided in the Monongahela Valley. In 1886 she- 
bought a lot in Stockdale, and having erected a 



842 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



pleasant residence, has since made her home in the 
village. She owns a farm of 133 acres in Allen 
township, which was the Crow farm bought by her 
father She has in her possession a thimble that 
was used by "old Uncle Heury," who did his own 
sewing, patching and knitting. 

John Gregg, brother of Henry, and sou of one 
of the immigrants from Ireland, had three daugh- 
ters — Nancy, Sarah and Eleanor — and two sons, 
who died of consumption. Eleanor (who died in 
1813) married William Wallace, who served with 
the Maryland troops in the war of 1812, and at its. 
close settled in Washington county. (Sarah G. 
Wallace, who married John R. Gregg, a son of 
Robert, was a daughter of William and Eleanor 
Wallace). John Gregg, Sr. . married after the 
death of his first wife, and to this second marriage 
three sons — Audrew, Robert and Jacob — and four 
daughters were born. One daughter married Rich- 
ard Hugans, and has one son, Jacob Hngans, liv- 
ing in California, Penn. ; another daughter married 
William Hanuon. Robert married Ala Hugans; 
Andrew married Peggy Hugans; Jacob married 
Nannie Hanua. Jacob Gregg has three daughters 
living — Jemima, Jane and Elizabeth — and one son, 
Henry Gregg, of Greene county, Penn. Nancy, 
Sarah and Eleanor were children to John, by first 
wife. Nancy married John Gregg, Sr. ; Sarah 
married John Greer, and Eleanor (as told above) 
married William Wallace. John and Nancy Gregg 
had four sons. James, Audrew, Henry, John, 
Mary, Nela, Sarah, Nancy and Elizabeth are all 
dead. John's daughter, Lila, lives on the old 
home that came from the old Henry estate. She 
is the widow of Luther Axtell. Edward Gregg 
has two daughters living: Malinda West, of Cali- 
fornia, and Mary J. Baker, of Centreville. Malin- 
da West had five daughters: Emma, married to H. 
Louis; Myrtle, married to Frank Craven; Dora, 
married to John Beazell; Mary, married to Ember- 
son Reade, and Kate, unmarried. John Gregg's 
widow is living. Edith (Woodward) Gregg has 
one son, William H. , a merchant in Coal Centre 
(married to Jane Forsythe, and has one son, Ed- 
gar, living in Pittsburgh), and another son, Thomas 
(married to a Miss Cooper, and living in West Vir- 
ginia). 

JOSEPH MOORE CURRY, one of the leading 
business men of Union township, is a native 
i if Allegheny county, Penn. He is a grand- 
son of Moses Curry, who was born in eastern 
Maryland, and was there married to Miss 
Sarah Moore. Their children were Samuel, David, 
Moses, Robert, John, Ezekiel, Joseph and Hiram. 
Joseph Gurry was born in 1778, in Chester coun- 
ty, Penn., and was educated as a physician. In 
1804, in company with the progenitors of many 
of the old families of Washington and Allegheny 



counties, such astheFinleys, Campbells, HindmanB, 
McClellans, etc., he came to western Pennsyl- 
vania, and purchased a large tract of land near 
Pittsburgh, at what is now Curry Station, Baltimore 
& Ohio Railroad. Here for a period of sixty years 
Dr. Curry carried on an extensive medical prac- 
tice, covering a circuit of many miles. He also 
conducted large farming operations, together with 
other industries, such as gristmills, sawmills, dis- 
tilleries, etc., located on his property. Soon after 
coming to this place he was married to Jane, 
daughter of John Finley. She bore him the fol- 
lowing children: John F., Joseph M. (mentioned 
below), Sarah (wife of Samuel Happer), Margaret 
(Mrs. Richard Storer), Mary J. (wife of Dr John- 
son). Susan (married to Robert Foster), Isabelle 
(Mrs. Robert Hutchinson), and William E. The 
father voted with the Democratic party, and in re- 
ligions faith was a member and elder of the Associ- 
ate Reformed Church. Dr. Curry died in 1862. 
His wife survived him fifteen years, dying in 1875 
at the age of eighty -four years. 

Joseph Moore Curry, whose name introduces 
this biography, was born July 24, 1813, on the 
place in Allegheny county, Penn. He, also, was edu- 
cated for the medical profession, but abandoned 
that career for a mercantile life. He embarked in 
the dry-goods business in Pittsburgh, in 1834, in 
company with H. B. Green, forming the house of 
Curry & Green, situated on Market street. In 1841 
this became Chadwick & Curry, and continued for 
a number of years. In 1839 he established a gen- 
eral store and supply depot at the sign of the " Roe- 
Galley" (now the town of Finley ville), a post sta- 
tion, fourteen miles out from Pittsburgh, on the 
Pittsburgh and Brownsville stage road. The goods 
with which this famous old establishment was 
stocked, comprising every known commodity, were 
transported by canal boat and conestoga wagon 
direct from the East, in immense cargoes 
four times a year. Great quantities of country 
produce of every kind — butter, eggs, lard, tallow, 
wool, fruit, vegetables, grain, cheese, beeswax, vin- 
egar, etc., were taken in exchange for supplies, and 
shipped to Pittsburgh every morning by wagon. A 
glance over the books and records of this old estab- 
lishment is a revelation of the wonderful variety 
and immense quantity of merchandise carried by 
these old country stores. 

In 1845 the subject of this sketch was married 
to Mary J., daughter of Robert Campbell. In 
1852 he purchased a tract of land one mile below 
Finleyville, from J. S. Gaston, and there built a 
huge store, mansion house, a number of tenant 
houses and shops, thus founding the town of Cur- 
ryville, which he afterward had changed to Gaston- 
ville. in honor of the original landholder. He 
removed to his new place in 1854, where he has 
since resided, continuing in active business until 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



843 



five years ago, when he retired from active busi- 
ness, being succeeded by his son George A., in 
1889. He was bereaved of his beloved wife, De- 
cember 14, 1870, who left the following children: 
Joseph Roland, William Hindman, Edward Camp 
bell, George A., Frank Morgan, Mary J., Lilly B. 
and Robert Charles. 

Politically Mr. Curry has always supported 
the Democratic party, and in religion is a rneniber 
of the Presbyterian church at Mingo. He has al- 
ways been a public-spirited citizen, contributing 
liberally toward all worthy objects. 




¥ OHN A. MoKEAN, M. D., a physician of Wash- 
ington, Washington county, of which he is a 
*M native, was born July 14, 1846, in the 
^^ borough of Washington, a son of Thomas and 
Fannie J. (Snodgrass) McKean, of whom 
special mention will be found elsewhere. Dr. 
McKean is, to » great extent, a self-made man, 
having learned the trade of tobacconist in his early 
years, and at which he continued to work during his 
spare time while attending college and also while 
pursuing his professional studies. His education 
was received at the public schools of the place, and 
Washington and Jefferson College. In 1867 he 
commenced the study of medicine with Dr. Thomas 
McKennan; then during the winter of 1868-69 he 
attended lectures at the University of Ann Arbor, 
Mich. , and, in the winter of 1869-70? lectures at 
the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, 
graduating in the spring of 1870. In the fall of 
that year he moved to Independence, a village in 
the western part of Washington county, where he 
commenced the practice of his profession, and here 
continued until June, 1871, when he returned to 
Washington, and has ever since been in successful 
practice in the borough and surrounding country. 

In October, 1876, Dr. McKean was united in 
marriage with Jennie B., daughter of Capt. John 
C. McCoy, now residing in Allegheny county. 
Three children came of this union, viz. : Fannie S. 
and John C, both at home with their father, and 
Harry M. , who died at the age of nine years. The 
mother of these children was called from earth in 
1882, and in 1886 Dr. McKean married Mrs. Sarah 
J. Zedeker, widow of B. B. Zedeker, formerly of 
South Strabane township; she had one daughter 
by her first husband. The Doctor is a mem- 
ber of and elder in the Third Presbyterian 
Church of Washington. In his political prefer- 
ences he is a Republican, and serves as a member 
of the school board of South Strabane township. 
His home in South Strabane township is situated 
on East Maiden street, with his office at No. 162 
South Main street. Dr. McKean has made a fair 
success of his chosen profession. For four years 
he was the physician attending the County Farm 
and the Jail. 



J. McNARY is the representative of one 
of the oldest pioneer families of Washing- 
*f[ ton county, whose descendants are very 
numerous, and are numbered among the 
most energetic and prominent citizens of the 
county. James McNary, the earliest ancestor of 
whom we have a record, was a native of the High- 
lauds of Scotland, born about the year 1711. It 
is supposed that he went to Ireland, and before 
1760 emigrated thence to America with his family, 
consisting of a wife, four sons and one daughter. 
During 1760 he bought a tract of land in York 
county, Penn. He died at the home of his sou, 
David, in Hanover township, Washington county, 
same State, in 1796. 

John McNary, great-grandfather of our subject, 
was born and reared in Scotland. He married 
Esther Boyle, a native of Ireland, who bore him 
children as follows: Elizabeth, wife of William 
Douglass; Mary, wife of James McCoy; James; 
Margaret, wife of James Martin; Malcom; Esther, 
wife of Thomas Irving; Agnes, wife of William 
Pollock; John; Thomas; Alexander; Margaret; 
Jane, married to James Marshall; and Janet, wife 
of Robert McKibben. The parents of this family 
came, with such children as had been born to 
them, to York county, Penn., some time prior to 
the Revolutionary war, and in 1801 the father 
visited North Strabane township, this county, 
where he purchased the farm now in the posses- 
sion of his grandson, James S. After returning 
to his home in York county, he died in 1802, 
and the family subsequently removed to the farm 
he had purchased. Of these children, James 
McNary was the grandfather of W. J. He mar- 
ried and reared a family of children, of whom 
Joseph McNary was one. 

Joseph McNary was born in 1802, in Cross 
Creek township, this county, and received a 
meager education in the country schools of the 
period. He learned and followed the carpentry 
trade. He was married to Jane, daughter of 
William Rea, of Cross Creek township, this 
county, and the children born to this union were 
Margaret (deceased), Esther I. (unmarried, living 
in Burgettstown, Penn.), Jane R. (first married to 
James McNary, now the wife of Samuel Cowen, of 
Elizabethtown, Ky.), Rhoda (Mrs. Robert Withe- 
i row, of Murdocksville, Penn.), Nancy A. (deceased 
| wife of Eli Marquis), Sarah A. (deceased), Mary 
E. (Mrs. J. W. Bailey), Harriet A. (wife of John 
Witherow, of Beaver county, Penn.), Julia 
(strangled with a grain of corn), Joseph R. (a 
farmer of Smith township), W. J. (whose name 
opens these lines) and an infant daughter (de- 
ceased). Mr. and Mrs. McNary lived in Cross 
Creek township one year after their marriage, 
then located one mile west of Burgettstown, Smith 
! township, where the remainder of his life was 



844 



WASHINGTON COUNT?. 



passed. Beginning life with no capital, he man- 
aged his affairs so successfully that at the time of 
his death his personal property was valued at 
over $20,000. He and his wife were members of 
the U. P. Church at Burgettstown, in which he 
served as an elder a long time. In politics he was 
always a Democrat, and had been chosen to till 
niany township offices. He died in 1874. 

W. J. Mc Nary was born December 1, 1850, on 
the farm adjoining his present home in Smith 
township, this county, where his early life was 
passed. On December 25, 1879, he was married 
to Maggie E. Proudfit, who was born August 15, 
1855, daughter of R. F. and Sarah E. (Porter) 
Proudtit, of Smith township, and two daughters 
have been born to their union: Sarah J. and 
Esther R., both yet living at home. Mr. and 
Mrs. McNary began wedded life half a mile west 
of Burgettstown, this county, on a part of the old 
home place, where he has since resided and made 
many improvements. He is a very energetic and 
" hustling" young farmer, always ready to assist 
any worthy enterprise. Politically he is an active 
worker in the Democratic party, and has held 
various township offices with satisfaction to his 
constituents. He and his wife are members of the 
United Presbyterian Church at Burgettstown. 



AMUEL T. MARTIN, a representative citi- 
zen and practical farmer of North Strabane 
township, was born in Washington county 
on the home farm. His ancestors were na- 
tives of York county, Penn. Toward the begin- 
ning of the eighteenth century, Peter Martin moved 
with his wife and family to Washington county, 
Penn., settling on the farm which is now occupied 
by his descendants. He died at the age of eighty 
years, having reared a family of seven children. 
James Martin, a son of this early settler, was 
born in 1792, in York county, Penn., and came 
with his parents to this county when a boy. In 

1821 he was married to Mary White, who bore him 
children as follows: Peter B. , born February 4, 

1822 (deceased); Samuel T., born January 24, 
1824; James, born December 12, 1826; John 
White (a merchant of Canonsburg, this county), 
born January 11, 1828; Matthew, born December 
7, 1829; Mary Jane (deceased), born September 
21, 1832; Ebenezer Henderson (drowned in the 
Potomac river), born June 21, 1834; Ann Eliza- 
beth (deceased), bora November 2, 1837; Eliza- 
beth Margaret, born October 10, 1S39; William 
Henry, born September 4, 1842, and Thomas Jef- 
ferson, born Angust 28, 1847. Mr. Martin con- 

. tinued to improve his farm in connection with 
managing a sawmill, during his active business 
life. He was formerly a Whig, then a Republican, 
and held several political offices. In religion he 



first united with the Seceder Church, then joined 
the United Presbyterians. He died in 18S7, hav- 
ing been preceded by his wife in 1878. 

Samuel T. Martin received a subscription and 
district-school education, and November 6. 1856, 
was united in marriage with Sarah Herron, who 
was born in 1827, in this county, daughter of 
James Herron, a pioneer settler of Washington 
county. Mrs. Martin died July 17, 1885, leaviug 
the following children to mourn her death: Lizzie 
M. (wife of William S. Whiteley), William, Sarah 
and Charles E. The mother was a member of the 
United Presbyterian Church, with which Mr. 
Martin is also connected. He is a liberal con- 
tributor to all public enterprises of the county, 
and a most successful agriculturist. He has an 
excellent dairy, milking fourteen Holstein cows, 
and shipping daily an average of twenty-five gal- 
lons of milk to Pittsburgh, Penn. His farm con- 
sists of 120 acres of fertile, well-eVltivated land. 



d/ D. McNARY. Among the representatives 
of old families in Washington county the 
subject of this memoir stands prominent. 
He is a son of David McNary, who in 1782 
came from York county, Penn., to Washing- 
ton county, making a settlement in North Strabane 
township. 

Thomas McNary, grandfather of subject, was a 
son of James McNary, who, some time prior to 
1760, emigrated from Scotland to this country, and 
located in York county, Penn., afterward, in 1787, 
oettling in Hanover township, Washington county. 
Thomas McNary was elected elder in the Chartiers 
Church in about the year 1799, and continued to 
serve in that capacity until his death in 1820. 

David McNary, father of subject, was born in 
1771, in (it is believed) York county, Penn., and 
about the year 1795 located in North Strabane 
township, where he purchased a farm of 320 acres, 
on which he continued to reside until his death. 
In 1816 he was married to Jane Edgar, daughter 
of Samuel Edgar, and born in County Down, 
Ireland, coming to this country with her father in 
1794; for six years they lived in New York City, 
and then came to Washington county, Penn. To 
David and Jane McNary were born children as 
follows: Phoebe, born in 1818, married James Beal, 
of West Virginia, and removed to Licking county, 
Ohio, where she died, leaving six children — two 
sons and four daughters; Thomas, born in 1820, 
died in early manhood; Samuel, born in 1822, 
died in 1892, leaving eleven children — five sons 
and six daughters (for fifteen years he was an 
elder in Chartiers U. P. Church); Jeanetta. born 
in 1824, died in early womanhood; Mary, born in 
1826, married John Templeton, and has four 
sons, living in North Strabane township; David 



"WW 





£ %L t^tUsij, 



WASHINGTON CO UN TY. 



847 



E., born iu 1828, is living in Cross Creek township, 
and has three sons and three daughters (for twelve 
years he was an elder iu West Middletown United 
Presbyterian Church); Matthew, born in 1830. 
died in the State of California in 1852; James R., 
born in 1833, died in 1891, leaving four daughters 
(for ten years he was an elder in Chartiers U. P. 
Church), and Joseph D., subject of sketch. The 
father of this family died in 1847, the mother in 
1868. 

J. D. McNary was born January 28, 1836, on the 
home place in North Strabane township, Washing- 
ton Co., Penn., where he was reared to agricultural 
pursuits, attending, during a few weeks in winter 
time, the common schools in the neighborhood. 
After this primary instruction, he entered Jeffer- 
son College, at Canonsburg, where he remained 
until his sophomore year. On April 1, 1857, he 
removed to South Strabane township, since when 
he has successfully followed agricultural pursuits 
on the farm on which he now resides. On Feb- 
ruary 5, 1857, Mr. McNary was united in marriage 
with Mary W., daughter of John Caldwell, of 
West Virginia, and the children born to this union 
were Lizzie J. (deceased), Lou J., Mattie E., 
Clara V. (Mrs. Rowley Cook), John R., Thomas 
H. and Mary J. The family are members of the 
United Presbyterian Church at Washington, of 
which Mr. McNary has been an elder since 1864. 
In politics he has always been a Republican, an 
active worker in the party, and an influential 
counselor. For the past eighteen years he has 
served as school director, and in all things he has 
proven himself a progressive and loyal citizen. 



TEMPLETON BROTHERS. David Temple- 
ton was born in 1800, in Washington county, 
Penn., where his life was passed in agri- 
cultural pursuits. On February 20, 1823, 
he was married to Miss Margaret Martin, 
who bore him the following named children: 
Margaret, John, Samuel and James, the two latter 
being deceased. The mother died May 25, 1833, 
and on February 20, 1834, David Templetou was 
again married, his second choice being Jane Mc- 
Nary, and their children were born as follows: 
Matthew, born January 27, 1836; Thomas, born 
March 21, 1838; David, born June 6, 1840; Ann 
(deceased wife of John White Anderson), born 
January 26, 1844; Joseph, born April 26, 1846, 
and William H. (deceased), born December 7, 1851. 
The father of this family was a devoted Christian, 
and both he and his wife were untiring Bible 
students. With but one exception the family 
worship at the U. P. Church. He died June 28, 
1867, and the old homestead is now owned by 
his sons, Matthew, David and Joseph Templeton. 
Of these three sons David Templeton is married to 



Nannie C. Horner, who has borne him four 
children. 

Joseph Templetou wedded Miss Katie Spear, 
and they have two children. 

Matthew Templeton has never married. On 
September 16, 1861, he enlisted in Company A, 
Eighty-Fifth Pennsylvania Regiment, command- 
ed by Capt. H. J. Van Kirk. He served three 
years and two months, was in the Peninsular 
Campaign, and fought at the battle of Fair Oaks. 
Immediately after the engagement at Fair Oaks, 
Matthew Templeton was seized with a fever, and 
was sent for treatment to the hospital at Philadel- 
phia. On recovering he joined his regiment in 
North Carolina, taking part in the engagements of 
Yorktown, Williamsburg and Fort Wagner. At 
the last-mentioned place he was slightly wounded 
iu the hip by a ball which killed a comrade at his 
side. He received an honorable discharge Novem- 
ber 22, 1864, and returned to the old home where 
he is yet living. 



Q 



EORGE VALENTINE, who in his lifetime 

was one of the representative, well-to-do citi- 

( zens of Donegal township, Washington Co., 

ll Penn., was a native of the county, born in 

^ Washington, November 22, 1822. 

His father, John Valentine, was born in June, 
1794, also in Washington. On May 11, 1818, he 
married Catherine May, daughter of George May 
(she was born March 20, 1800, in Bedford county, 
Penn., and died August 21, 1831), and she bore 
him the following named children: Julia A. 
(wife of Templeton Lucas, of West Alexander), 
George, John, Elizabeth M. (deceased wife of Joel 
Truesdell, of West Alexander), Daniel and Charles. 
Mr. Valentine, Sr., continued to live in Washing- 
ton, Peun., for sometime after his marriage, but 
afterward kept hotel in Claysville, and subsequent- 
ly bought a farm and public house one-half mile 
east of West Alexander, on the "National pike," 
where the family were noted for their hospitality 
and good entertainment, and where he lived until 
his death May 14, 1808. He was a member of the 
Presbyterian Church of West Alexander, and in 
political persuasion was an Old-line Whig. His 
second marriage, to Mrs. Elizabeth Mehaffey, of 
Sn'iii'iset county, Penn., was on December 28, 
1839; she died July 14, 1867. 

George Valentine received his primary education 
in the common school, which was supplemented 
with a course of study at Dr. McClusky's academy, 
in West Alexander, and an attendance for a short 
time at Washington College, Penn. He was a 
skillful and prosperous farmer, in addition to 
which he dealt in wool, grain and many kinds of 
produce as well as stock. In politics he was a 
Republican, a prominent leader in the party; was 



848 



WA SHIN G TON CO UN T Y. 



a member of the Presbyterian Church of West 
Alexander for many years. He was a liberal man, 
and a progressive citizen, a warm-hearted friend of 
education, and for years was a trustee of West 
Alexander Academy. He passed most of his life 
on the farm owned formerly by his father, after- 
ward by himself, dying November 5, 1881. As 
husband, father, friend, he was one of the most 
genial, loving and kind, always cheerful, with a 
smile for all; in tenderness almost feminine, but 
firm and unwavering in principle and convictions 
of duty. On October 7, 1852, Mr. Valentine mar- 
ried Louise Bayha, of Wheeling, W. Va. , who 
bore him one son, Louis B. , who still lives in the 
old homestead, and is in the mercantile business in 
West Alexander. On September 27, 1883, he 
married Laura B. Anderson, of West Alexander, 
and they are the parents of three bright boys: 
George A. , John B. and Charles T. The death of 
his first wife occurred on February 19, 1854, and 
March 16, 1859, Mr. Valentine married Anna B., 
daughter of Andrew Yates, a native of Ohio 
county, W. Va. , a lifelong farmer. Mr. Yates 
married May 25, 1820, Anne Byers, of near Clays- 
ville, Penn., by whom he had the following chil- 
dren: Mary F. (wife of Thomas Ralston), Thomas, 
Byers T. , William, Margaret S., one daughter 
deceased in infancy, Andrew and Anna B. (twins), 
and Jane S. These parents were of Scotch-Irish 
descent, and could trace their ancestry back for 
many generations as a strictly religious people, 
many of them office bearers in the Church. Mr. 
Yates held the office of ruling elder in the Presby- 
terian Church for the space of half a century, and 
was for years justice of the peace, under the old 
constitution of Virginia. He was born July 16, 
1795, and died on the farm, where he had lived 
over fifty years, December 19, 1876, in the eighty- 
second year of his age; his widow was born June 
25, 1797, and died August 27, 1887, in the ninety- 
first year of her age. The children all died young 
and unmarried, except the two daughters alreadj' 
named, and Byers T., who married Margaret 
Purcell, of West Liberty, W. Va. (she died March, 
1889, and her husband February 16, 1892). 

Anna B., widow of George Valentine, was mar- 
ried February 18, 1892, to Rev. J. S. Gilmor, of 
Congers, N. Y., also a native of West Virginia, his 
childhood's home, and that of many of his relatives, 
being in the immediate vicinity of West Alexander, 
Pennsylvania. 



J/OHN FLACK. The Flack family have for 
many years been identified with the iuter- 
I ests of Washington county. About 1800 one 
Robert Flack sailed from County Monaghan, 
Ireland, and on arriving in America first 
located in Chester county, Penn. He then moved 



to Westmoreland county, same State, but in 1820 
made a permanent location on the forks of Char- 
tiers creek, Peter9 township, Washington county. 
He was married in his native land to a native of 
County Monaghan, Ireland, Miss Mary Douglass, 
who bore him the following children: James, Alex- 
ander, Mary, John, Nancy, Robert, Jane, Margaret, 
Eliza and Sarah, all of whom are now deceased. 

Alexander Flack, son of Robert Flack, was born 
about 1794, in County Monaghan, Ireland, and 
coming with his parents to America, was reared in 
Chester and Westmoreland counties. He began 
life as a teamster, and in 1835 opened a store at 
Bower Hill, Washington county. -He conducted 
this business ten years, then bought the home farm 
in Peters township. When a young man he was 
married to Mary Porter, a native of this county, 
who died not long after their marriage. For his 
second wife Alexander Flack was married to Lillie 
Ann McAlister, of Peters township, a daughter of 
John McAlister, who, with his father, Archibald 
McAlister, emigrated from County Antrim, Ireland, 
about 180(1, and settled first in Chester county, 
Penn., and in 1802 removed with his parents to 
Washington county. John McAlister was married to 
Isabelle McAllister, a resident of County Antrim, 
Ireland, who bore him seven children, namely: 
Archie, Nancy, Mary, Lillie Ann, John, Hannah, and 
James, all of whom are now deceased. Lillie Ann 
McAlister was reared to womanhood in Peters 
township. To the union of Alexander and Lillie 
Flack one son was born, John. The father was 
an active member of the Democratic party, and 
held nearly every office in Peters township. He 
died in 1857. 

John Flack was born May 27, 1839, in Bower 
Hill, Washington county, Penn. He began a 
course at Jefferson College, but, being called home 
by the death of his father, took charge of the old 
place. On November 20, 1865, he was united in 
marriage with Hester B., daughter of Albert Hol- 
bert, a native of Franklin township, Washington 
county. She died in 1882, leaving the following 
children : Bertha A. , John A. , Florence W., William 
L., Minnie B. , and Bessie L. , the last-named of 
whom is now attending school at Bower Hill. On 
March 3, 1885, John Flack was united in marriage 
with Virginia M. Ruth, whose father, John Ruth, 
was a native of New Jersey, and learned the car- 
penter's trade. He was married to Miss Mar- 
garet Barr, of Washington county, Penn.. who 
bore him one daughter, Virginia M. (Mrs. Flack). 
Mr. and Mrs. Ruth died at Bethany, W. Va. , of 
cholera, and were buried in the same grave. The 
orphan daughter was reared to womanhood by Miss 
Jane Hardy, of Bower Hill, where she resided 
until her marriage to John Flack. 

To the union of John and Virginia M. Flack 
four children have been born, namelv: Walter H, 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



849 



Wallace R., Allan M., and Margaret Lillian. 
After bis first marriage Mr. Flack resided on a 
farm in this county until 1869, when he moved to 
Iowa. In 1871 he returned to the home farm, and 
in 1884 opened a store at Bower Hill, this county. 
Since 1880 he has lived on the farm which is now 
his home. He is a Democrat in politics, and has 
held various local offices. In religious faith he is 
a member of the United Presbyterian Church. 




C. GRIMES is a son of William Grimes, 
whose father was born in eastern Penn- 
sylvania, and on attaining majority set- 
tled in Donegal township, Washington 
county, where he married Miss Mary 
Gregg, and reared a family of nine children. 
William Grimes was born in 1818, on the home 
farm in Donegal township, ibis county, and after- 
ward moved to Ohio, where he lived twenty years. 
He then returned to Pennsylvania, and settled on 
the farm in Buffalo township, which is now the 
home of his son Andrew. In 1843 William Grimes 
was married to Elizabeth, daughter of Charles 
McCroberts, of Washington county, Penn. They 
reared a family of nine children, as follows: Will- 
iam C, Mary (wife of Samuel Woodburn), J. 
Thomas, Lawson, Lizzie M., David A., Sallie J., 
Andrew J., and Nannie B. (wife of J. A. Lind- 
say), all living but Lizzie M. Mr. Grimes died 
in' 1881. 

W. C. Grimes was born February 22, 1844, on 
his father's farm in Ohio. Ho attended the com- 
mon schools, and when fourteen years of ago re- 
turned to Pennsylvania with his father. In 1807 
he was united in marriage with Sarah E., daughter 
of James Allison, of Irish descent. They have 
had the following children: Andrew J., Lizzie M. , 
Nannie B., William C, Lena B. , Sadie L. , Ollie 
L., Alice H. , an infant, and Birdella (the latter 
two of whom, with Nannie, are deceased). Mr. 
Grimes farms extensively, and is also engaged in 
stock raising. His farm consists of 165 acres of 
good land, lying on Buffalo creek, in the northern 
part of Buffalo township, this county. In politics 
he is a stanch Democrat, but not a politician. His 
wife is a member of the United Presbyterian 
Church at Taylorstown, Washington county. 



Li 



EMAN CARSON, a prominent stock raiser 
and agriculturist of Buffalo township, of 
which he is a native, was born March 26, 
1849, on the farm where he now resides, 
which is one of the most productive in the town- 
ship. Isaac Carson, his grandfather, was born 
and married in eastern Pennsylvania, whence he 
came to this county. He was one of the earliest 
settlers of Buffalo township, and a prosperous 



farmer. His children were as follows: James, 
born April 17, 1798; Thomas, born September 30, 
1800; Adam, born June 20, 1803; Mary (Mrs. 
William Bell), born Februarv 14, 1806; Rebecca 
(Mrs. William Ely), born May 18, 1808; Ann (Mrs. 
William Wright), born April 15, 1810; Margaret 
(Mrs. Albough), born May 27, 1812; Isaac, born 
July 22, 1815; Samuel, born January 25, 1819, 
and Jane, born May 2, 1821. The parents of this 
family lie buried side by side in North Buffalo 
cemetery; they were members of the Seceder 
Church, and in politics he was a Democrat. 

Thomas Carson, father of subject, was married 
in 1829 to Mary Wright, daughter of Samuel 
Wright. The children by this union are Rachel 
(Mrs. H. C. Noble), Isaac, Samuel W. and Leman. 
After his marriage Mr. Carson continued to reside 
on the home place, where he carried on farming 
and stock raising, and where he and his wife passed 
the remainder of their busy lives, the father dying 
January 15, 1865, and the mother January 5, 
1S86; they were consistent members of the United 
Presbyterian Church, and in politics Mr. Carson 
was an ardent Democrat. 

Leman Carson received his education at the 
schools of his native township, and was reared to 
agricultural pursuits under the preceptorship of 
his father. On August 3, 1887, he was married to 
Maggie Gillespie, of Buffalo township, and one 
child, Willie, has blessed their union. Mr. Car- 
son is successfully engaged in general farming, in- 
cluding stock raising, and is well and favorably 
known in the community in which he lives. HiH 
political preferences are Democratic, and he is an 
active party man. 




OBERT E. WEIR was born May 10, 1S50, 
in West Bethlehem township, Washington 
Co., Penn., a grandson of James Weir, who 
located in Somerset township, this county, 
at an early day, and engaged in agricult- 
ure. He had the following family of children: 
Samuel, Joseph, Thomas (who died in 1863), Re- 
becca (Mrs. Robinson), Mary (Mrs. Roberts) and 
Lavina (Mrs. Marshall). In politics he was a Re- 
publican, and in religious belief he was a member 
of the Presbyterian Church. 

Col. Samuel Weir, son of James, was born April 
3, 1800, in West Bethlehem township, Washington 
county, and made his home there many years, re- 
ceiving a common-school education. In 1825 he 
was united in marriage with Ellen Weir, of Som- 
erset township, a daughter of Thomas and Nancy 
Weir, and the children born to this union were 
James, Thomas, Samuel, Joseph, Robert E., Nancy 
(deceased), Mary, Sarah Ellen, Martha and Susan. 
Mr. Weir carried on farming several years, and 
also operated the gristmill known as " Weir's 



850 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Mills." He was a colonel iu the milita for several 
years. Mr. Weir was a Republican since the for- 
mation of the party, and with his family was for 
many years a faithful and earnest member of the 
Baptist Church. Mrs. Weir died in 1885, and on 
June 5, 1892, he too passed away, aged ninety-two 
years. He was buried in the cemetery of the Bap- 
tist Church at Pigeon Creek. 

Robert E. Weir has passed his whole life on the 
old farm in West Bethlehem township, and in his 
boyhood received a limited education in the com- 
mon schools. On July 3, 1879, he was married to 
Elnora Kahl, daughter of Jonathan and Sarah 
Kahl, of Amwell township, Washington county, 
whose children with George, Eliza (Mrs. Arnold), 
Catherine (Mrs. Simpson), Clara (Mrs. Bedillion), 
Flora (Mrs. Post), Sadie (Mrs. Horn), Ida (Mrs. 
Snee) and Elnora (Mrs. Weir). Immediately after 
his marriage Mr. Weir began business for himself, 
and first located on the Hazlett farm near ' ' Pan- 
cake" or "Laboratory," in Amwell township, 
Washington county, where he remained three 
years, afterward residing on the National pike 
thirteen years. Since that time he has resided at 
his present home, which is brightened by a son and 
daughter — Ellsworth, born October 13, 1881, and 
Pearl, born November 23, 1883. Mr. Weir is one 
of the thrifty farmers and good business men of 
Amwell township, his well-cultivated farm com- 
prising 103 acres of excellent land. In politics he 
has always been a stanch Republican. Mrs. Weir 
is a member of the Christian Church at Lone Pine. 



1 



B. BOYLE. Prominently identified with 
the enterprising and successful citizens of 
North Strabane township is the gentleman 
above named. He is a son of William 
Boyle, who was born in 1794, iu Allegheny county, 
Penn., and there learned the carpenter's trade. In 
1823 he came to Washington county, and pur- 
chased the farm in North Strabane township now 
occupied by his son. When a young man William 
Boyle was united in marriage with Elizabeth Wei 
ler, a native of Washington county, Penn., born in 
1800, and eight sons were born to their union, 
namely: Daniel (deceased), Hugh (residing in 
Washington, Penn.), J. W. (living in Oklahoma), 
William (a citizen of Iowa), E. B. (whose name 
introduces this biography), Andrew Jackson (res- 
idence unknown), Benjamin Franklin (of Lawrence 
county, Penn.), and James G. (living in Pitts 
burgh). The mothor of this family died in 1861, 
followed by the father in 1865, and they were 
buried in the private cemetery on the old Weller 
homestead. Both were earnest members of the 
Presbyterian Church. 

E. ii. Boyle was born October 22, 1826, on the 
old farm iu North Strabane township, Washington 



Co. , Penn., and received all the literary training 
which could be imparted by the pedagogue of the 
country school. On October 28, 1852, he was 
united in marriage with Elizabeth, daughter of 
Col. Moses and Nancy Linn. To the union of E. 
B. and Elizabeth Boyle the following children have 
been born: Agnes J., Lizzie W., Clara B. (Mrs. 
R. J. Wallace, has one son, E. B. F.), Nettie (1. 
(wife of Charles Wilkinson, Lawrence county, 
Penn., has two sons, Lawrence B. and Earnest), 
Anna (Mrs. E. G. Walker, has one son, Fred), 
William F., Blanche L., John Grant, H. A. and 
Mamie. Of this family the three eldest daughters 
have taught school, and all are regular attendants 
and ardent supporters of the Presbyterian Church. 
In political opinion Mr. Boyle votes according to 
the ability of the candidate, regardless of part; 
preferences. Luring his father's lifetime, our sub- 
ject purchased one-half of the home farm, which 
contains 175 acres, and after the death of his 
father he purchased the remainder from his 
brothers, B. F. and A. J. Boyle. His principal 
attention is devoted to the general care of his farm 
and the breeding of Jersey cattle. The home place, 
on which ho resides, is improved to the highest 
point of cultivation. 




lORK, MAJ. GEORGE T. and SAMUEL 

C. History may be properly regarded as 
the biography of a few earnest, toiling, 
self-reliant men, who were courageous 
enough to stand by their convictions, possessing 
the requisite patience and energy to reach the 
goal for which they were striving. The lives 
of such men are worthy of record, and the name of 
Work is justly numbered among the progressive 
citizens of Washington county, who, overcoming 
all obstacles, have achieved a deserved success. 

George Work was born and reared iu County 
Londonderry, Ireland. He followed the occupa- 
tion of a weaver. On*March 3, 1780, he was united 
in wedlock with Martha Dunlap, also a native of 
"Old Erin," and two children came to their 
union: Alexander, born February 11, 1781; and 
Jane, born May 9, 1783. A few years after their 
birth the father decided to seek a home in the 
New World, and on July 24, 1789, he and his 
family boarded the brig "Keziah," at London- 
derry, Ireland. After a stormy voyage of eight 
weeks, they landed at Wilmington, Del. (one child, 
a son, was born and died at sea). In 1795 they 
pushed farther westward in search of a cheap 
home, the long, tedious journey being made by 
wagon, the family finally arriving in Hopewell 
township, Washington Co., Penn. They Located 
first on the Sam Davis farm, but soon afterward 
moved to the log cabin near Buffalo, and on May 
24, 1802, they purchased the farm now known as 





< -" * 




e 



\ 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



853 



the Work farm. He became a successful farmer. 
Three children were bora after they arrived in 
America: Mary, November 8, 1790; James, Sep- 
tember 12, 1792, and John D., November 14. 1794. 
The parents both died in this county, and their 
remains are lying in the Buffalo cemetery. 

James Work was born in Wilmington, Del., and 
when three years old was brought by his parents 
to the farm in Hopewell township, this county, it 
being then a dense forest. He received a meager 
education in the subscription schools, and followed 
agricultural pursuits during his early youth. On 
February 7, 1822, he married Grizzilla, daughter 
of Robert Tweed, by his first wife, Elizabeth 
Wylie, daughter of Adam Wvlie, and sister of Adam 
Wylie, M. D., and Andrew Wylie, D. D. By this 
union were born two children: Elizabeth Grizzilla, 
December 20, 1823 (who became the wife of 
Robert Denny, and died in Morrow county, Ohio), 
and George Tweed, born April 7, 1825. The 
mother of these children was called to her rest 
January 27, 1827, and July 3, 1828, James Work 
was married to Margaret Caldwell, a lady of 
Scotch descent, and the following children were 
the result of their union: Martha L., born June 1, 
1829, died August 19, 1832; Agnes A., born 
November 17, 1831, wife of Robert S. Caldwell; 
Sarah J., born October 14, 1832, wife of William 
Denny, of Hervey county, Kans."; Mary B. , born 
May 8, 1834, died August 14, 1834; Clarissa E., 
born November 8, 1835, died August 29, 1840; 
Samuel O, born July 16, 1838, married to Anna 
Donahey; Maria I., born August 11, 1840, married 
to William Morrow, October 1, 1889, and died 
Jauuary 8, 1892; Margaret Emma, born October 
26, 1842, wife of Joseph Rankin; Sophia M. A., 
born March 6, 1846, wife of William Smiley. 
James Work, the father, died September 26, 1868; 
his second wife, Margaret (Caldwell), died in De- 
cember, 1885. 

George Tweed Work received a common school 
education, and assisted his father on the farm 
until he was twenty-six years of age, excepting two 
winters in which he taught school in Harrison 
county, Ohio, and also occasionally working at the 
carpenter's trade. He then engaged in the lumber 
business, putting up the first steam sawmill in the 
vicinity. Excepting during the war he followed 
that business until 1889, since when he has given 
his time to farming. On September 19; 1850, he 
married Catharine Denny, daughter of Robert 
Denny, of Chartiers township, Washington Co., 
Penn., and their children were James Alexander, 
born August 1, 1851;Lydia Jane, born January 
13, 1854, died by drowning June 29, 1854; Mar- 
garet Eliza, born February' 15, 1856; John Dun- 
lap, born August 17, 1858, died January 30, 1878; 
Grizzilla Mary, born February 13, 1861, became 
the wife of William Patterson May 11, 1882, and 



died December 28, 1886, leaving two sons, George 
W. and John Vance Patterson; Emma K., born 
October 8, 1867; George Rankin, born October 7, 
1870. Of these, James A. married Laura B. 
Logan January 28, 1880, and is now (1893) 
engaged in a lumber business in Sussex county, 
Virginia. 

When the Civil war began, and soon after the 
firing of Fort Sumter, George T. Work, acting 
for a number of volunteers, offered a company of 
cavalry to Gov. Curtin, but was refused for reason 
that no cavalry were needed at that time. Soon 
after the first battle of Bull Run the same company 
elected W. W. McNulty captain, and again offer- 
ing their service were accepted and ordered into 
camp. On the way there Mr. Work was appointed 
orderly sergeant, and on the final organization of 
the company became second lieutenant; soon after, 
the captaiu having resigned to accept pro- 
motion, he became first lieutenant, and in Novem- 
ber following became captain. The compauy 
meanwhile being attached to the First P. V. O, 
by order of Maj.-Gen. Stoneman, chief of cavalry, 
army of the Potomac, as captain of Company I, 
First P. V. C, he commanded a squadron at the 
battle of Drainesville, and participated in other 
minor engagements; was under Gen. McDowell 
in his movement to the Rappahannock, until his 
regiment was ordered to join Gen. Fremont in the 
Shenandoah Valley, and was with his column in 
advance at Mt. Jackson, having participated, in all 
the marches and skirmishes of his regiment up to 
that time. Here he was prostrated by malarial 
fever, and sent by Surgeon D. Stanton to Douglass 
Hospital, Washington City, June 5, 1862. Having, 
by advice of the hospital surgeon, tendered his 
resignation, he was discharged for disability July 
25, 1862. On his way home he called on Gov. 
Curtin, and received authority to recruit two com- 
panies of cavalry, or more if he could get the men. 
As soon as able to ride, he began recruiting, and 
uniting his efforts with Capt. John Keys succeeded 
in enlisting two cavalry companies, besides send- 
ing many men to infantry and artillery regiments, 
and was again mustered into the D. S. cavalry 
service as captain of Company C, Ringgold Battal- 
ion, September 6, 1862. By the addition of other 
companies this battlion was raised to a full regi- 
ment in February, 1863, and Capt. Work was 
commissioned first major Twenty-second P. V. C, 
in which rank he served till the close of the war, 
participating in all the marches, scouts, and 
battles of the Shenandoah Valley campaign, until 
he was wounded near Harrisonburg, September 
27, 1863. His immediate command was the 
extreme right of the line in each of the general 
movements of the Union forces in 1864, in the 
Valley. At his own request he was mustered out 
in July, 1865, by reason of close of the war, and 



854 



WASHINGTON CO UN T V. 



in August following took an agency as superintend- 
ent of an oil company operating in West Virginia. 
This enterprise proved disastrous to the company, 
and especially to their agent, whose sanguine 
temperament led him to rashly put all he was 
worth, aud more, into it. Much broken in health, 
he returned home, and again took up the business 
of lumbering and milling, which he diligently fol- 
lowed when able until 1S76, when he received the 
Republican nomination for sheriff, and was elected, 
his term commencing January 1, 1877, and euding 
January 1, 1880. This term was noted for the 
serious disturbances among the mines of the 
Monongahela river, and on the Panhandle Rail- 
road. The sheriff's prompt action in arresting 
those charged with riot, and at the same time 
organizing such a posse comitatus as he thought 
necessary to preserve the peace and enforce his 
authority, had the desired affect; and what at 
times assumed most threatening proportions passed 
off without serious conflict, and the prompt (though 
mild) sentences imposed by the courts preserved 
Washington county from any serious trouble from 
♦ bat source since. For his conduct of this affair, 
the sheriff received the thanks of the best citizens 
regardless of party, also the compliments of Gov. 
Hoyt. But what gave him even more pleasure than 
this was the presentation to him by the miners and 
their friends of a very handsome cane, suitably in- 
scribed, and presented at a public meeting of the 
citizens of California and vicinity. This cane is 
still one of his most cherished possessions. The 
history of this affair demonstrates the possibility of 
a sheriff effectually quelling riot and preserving 
the peace, by the prompt use of the power given 
him by the laws, without using any military force 
other than the " power of the county," at all times 
subject to his control for that purpose. Although 
retired from the more arduous duties of agricult- 
ural life, Maj. Work yet supervises ^he cultivation 
of his large farm. He possesses some literary 
gifts, which he sometimes exercises in correspond- 
ence for various papers. 

Maj. Work, now nearing the close of life, 
desires us to conclude this sketch by tendering to 
his many comrades of the G. A. R. and all others, 
his most sincere thanks for the many words and 
acts of kindness received at their hands, and asks 
their kind remembrance in the future. 

Samuel C. Work was born in Hopewell town- 
ship, on the same farm where he is now living, and 
received a common-school education. On August 
13, 1861, he enlisted in Company I, First Penn- 
sylvania Cavalry, and being assigned to the army 
of the Potomac took part in most of the engage- 
ments participated in by that division of the army; 
was wounded August 14, 1864, six days after the 
expiration of his term of service, while in command 
of a squadron, and he received an honorable dis- 



Harrv A., March 
L872; Nellie A., 
April 25. L879; 



charge September 9, 1864. He then returned to 
Washington county, and on February 8, 1865, 
was united in marriage with Sarah A., daughter of 
W. R. Donahey, of Buffalo township, of whose 
family a sketch follows. The children born to 
Mr. and Mrs. Work were as follows: James E. , 
born June 16, 1866; William D., January 15, 
1868; Luretta M., May 27, 1869; 
16, 1871; Ora P., October 12, 
March 2, 1875; Harvey B. S. R., 
Samuel C, May 10, 1881; George R. , November 
11, 1884; and John Calvin, November 24. 1SS6. 
Of these children, Harry A. died May 16, 1872, 
and James E., June 19, 1892, leaving a daughter, 
Mary Elvalena (he was married November 20, 
1890, to Miss Mattie Stewart, of Canton township, 
daughter of William Stewart). 

Mr. and Mrs. Work have always resided on the 
home farm, a valuable and well improved piece 
of property. He has followed farming and stock 
raising with marked success, and is one of the fore- 
most breeders of Spanish Merino sheep of the De- 
laine type. He is an enterprising and progres- 
sive agriculturist, ever ready to adopt modern 
methods, provided they are conducive to the best 
results. Mr. Work is one of the most ardent sup- 
porters of education in both Church and State; and 
to his perseverance and energy there now stands 
the Buffalo Academy, it being the third academy 
erected in this part of Hopewell township. Po- 
litically he is an enthusiastic supporter of the doc- 
trines embodied in the Republican platform, be- 
ing a counselor of that party, and has held several 
township offices. He and his wife anil five of the 
elder children are members of the Presbyterian 
Church at Buffalo village, under the pastorate of 
Rev. T. A. Anderson. 

Donahey Family. This is one of the first fami- 
lies to settle in Washington county. Joseph Do- 
nahey aud Mary, his wife, with their children — 
Jane, William, Samuel and Mary — emigrated from 
Omagh, in County Tyrone, Ireland, May 23, 1790, 
arriving in America August 24, same year. 
They settled near Taylorstown, in Buffalo town- 
ship, on the place now owned by Jacob White, 
which is known as one of the best oil farms in the 
Taylorstown oil field. Two other children were 
born to them in Washington county, named Joseph 
aud Margaret. 

Samuel Donahey was born in May, 17S7. and 
emigrated with his parents from Ireland. He was 
married to Anna Reed, daughter of William Reed, 
and they located on what is now known as the 
James and Isaac Hodgens farm. In 1840 he was 
ordained as a ruling elder in Buffalo Presbyterian 
Church. He died suddenly iu his own yard De- 
cember 25, 1 840. To them were born six children, 
viz. : Joseph, married to Mary A. Lowry, of Hope- 
well township (he resided near Buffalo, and was a 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



855 



leader of the music in the Buffalo Presbyterian 
Church. In April, 1879, he and his family moved 
to Adair, Iowa, where he served as a ruling elder 
in the Presbyterian Church the rest of his life. 
He died August 27, 1890, a man of a quiet dispo- 
sition, a kind husband and father and a devout 
Christian); William R., born January 14, 1816; 
Margaret, who married Rev. James Smith; Mary, 
widow of Vincent Blayney, still resides on the 
Blayney homestead near Taylorstown; Jane, mar- 
ried to Rev. Marshal, and Sarah A., married to 
Rev. James Shields, now a resident of Allegheny, 
William R. Donahey was married in Decem- 
ber, 1843, to Mary Ely, daughter of Marten Ely, 
an elder in East Buffalo Church. He located on 
what is known as the William Donahey farm, two 
miles south of Taylorstown. Pour children were 
born to them: Sarah A., born September 9, 1844, 
was married to S. C. Work; Samuel, born Decem- 
ber 15, 1845, who now resides with his mother in 
Buffalo village; Martin L., born September 22, 
1847, was married to Frances E. Fergus, of Can- 
onsburg, Penn., November 2, 1872 (he was licensed 
by the Presbytery of Washington, and is now pas- 
tor of the Presbyterian Church of Napoleon, Ohio); 
Joseph A., born February 6, 1850, married Lizzie 
H. McCleese, of Taylorstown, July 13, 1870, and is 
now pastor of the Capitol Avenue Presbyterian 
Church of Denver, Colo. William Donahey was 
ordained an elder in Buffalo Presbyterian Church 
in 1853, and served until his death, August 14, 
1884. Much of his time and means were spent in 
behalf of his fellow-men. In his youthful days he 
taught school, which he took great delight in, as it 
opened many ways for usefulness in after years. 
He took special delight in the Sabbath-school, and 
was for many years elected superintendent of Buf- 
falo Sabbath-school. Mr. Donahey was a devout 
and earnest follower of Christ, honoring God in 
his household, and was extremely conscientious and 
faithful as a ruling elder. 



' 



M[ RS. ANN TAYLOR is the widow of Max- 
well H. Taylor, who was a son of Joshua, 
and grandson of William and Phrebe 
■* (Heardman) Taylor. The lalter couple 
emigrated from Ireland in 1788, and com- 
ing to America located in Washington county, 
Penn., near Taylor's church, where their last days 
were passed. The father died in 1841, followed 
by his widow in 1855. Joshua Taylor, son of 
William and Phoebe, was born in County Cavan, 
Ireland, where he married Jane Quinn, a country- 
woman, and immigrated to Pennsylvania. In 
1829 they settled on a farm in Washington county, 
and five children were born to them, of whom but 
one is now living, Sophia, widow of William Stew- 



art, The father died July 3, 1851, followed by 
his widow December 23, 1886. 

Maxwell H. Taylor was born July 3, 1833, in 
Washington county, Penn., and passed his whole 
life on the home farm in East Bethlehem town- 
ship. On June 28, 1866, he was united in mar- 
riage with Ann, daughter of William O, and 
granddaughter of Isaac C. Wolf. The latter was 
a native of Virginia, and there married Susanna 
Dehaven, who bore him four children, viz.: Will- 
iam C. , Joseph, Elizabeth and Rachel A. The 
father voted with the Democratic party, and in relig- 
ious faith was a member of the M. E. Church. 
Mrs. Wolf died January 19, 1846, and he was laid 
to rest Julv 27, 1870. 

William" C. Wolf was born July 22, 1820, in 
Virginia, and came with his parents to Washing- 
ton county, Penn., in 1829, receiving his education 
in the subscription schools, and following agri- 
cultural pursuits. On July 1, 1841, he selected a 
life companion in the person of Melinda J. Small- 
wood, who was born June 2, 1823, in Washington 
county, where they settled, and he followed teach- 
ing and cabinet making. In political opinion he 
was a Democrat, and in religious connection a 
member of the M. E. Church. His children were 
Alfred D., who enlisted in Company I, Second 
Regiment, Virginia Infantry, and served three 
years; Susanna, wife of James K. Ward; Joseph, 
who enlisted in Company D, Seventy- ninth Regi- 
ment P. V. I.; Ann, wife of Maxwell Taylor; 
Henry W,; Sarah N. ; Abram, and Isaac C. Mr. 
Wolf died March 4, 1855, and was followed to the 
grave by his wife April 9, 1874. The father was 
a Democrat. 

Maxwell H. and Ann (Wolf) Taylor had four 
children, namely: Melinda J., wife of Luciau H. 
Patterson; Felicia H. ; Phoebe A., and one who is 
deceased. Mr. Taylor was a successful farmer, and 
in politics was actively identified with the Repub- 
lican party. He died September 25, 1876, and 
his widow is yet residing on the well-improved 
farm of seventy-three acres. She is a member of 
the Taylor M. E. Church. 



FIi LEXANDER S. HAYS is a cousin of the 
// 1\ other representatives of that name who are 
fh\\ mentioned in this volume as residents of 
Jl -* Smith township, this county. His grand- 
v father, Moses Hays, was the youngest son 

of a large family born to David Hays, of New 
Jersey, whose sons were Thomas, David, Joseph, 
William, James and Moses. 

Moses Hays was born in the State of New 
Jersey, and after partially learning the blacksmith's 
trade, he was drafted at the age of nineteen into 
Continental army, together with five of his broth- 
ers. He followed his trade till the close of the war, 



856 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



and during the contest his brother John received 
a wound, which was the cause of his death. In 
1783 Moses was married to Jemima Patterson, a 
native of New Jersey. Soon after the close of the 
Revolutionary war, Moses, with his wife and 
brothers, went west, settling on 1,000 acres of land 
about three miles southeast of Burgettstown, this 
county, on Raccoon creek. The brothers divided this 
land, and Moses made a permanent home upon his 
share, where the following children were born and 
reared: Thomas (moved to Jackson county, Ohio, 
where he died), born October 5, 1784; Edith (wife 
of David Hayes, of Ohio), born February 27, 1780; 
John (deceased, near Mooreiieid, Harrison Co., 
Ohio), born February 3, 1789; William (killed by 
accident), born April 7, 1791; James (deceased 
in Allegheny county, Perm.), born June 11, 1793: 
Alexander, born November 11, 1795; Mary (de- 
ceased in youth), born December 25, 1797; Eleanor 
(deceased wife of James Todd, of Allegheny coun- 
ty), born November 15, 1799; Joseph (deceased 
on the home farm), born February 15, 1801; David 
(deceased farmer of Smith township, married to 
Martha Fulton), born May 7, 1803; and Ann (de- 
ceased in youth), born June 23, 1805. Moses 
Hays possessed a remarkably retentive memory, 
easily recalling incidents of the war fifty years 
after the conflict. Anything once seen or heard 
he never forgot, and easily brought it to mind 
whenever the subject arose. He was a prominent 
and successful farmer, and in religion was a mem- 
ber of the Raccoon Church during the ministry of 
Rev. Moses Allen, who was a personal friend of 
Moses Hays. The latter passed away in 1836, 
being followed in a few days by his wife. 

Joseph Hays was" born February 15, 1801, on 
the old home place, situated on Raccoon creek, 
about two and a half miles east of Burgettstown, 
Smith township. He attended the county schools 
near the home farm, receiving but a meager educa- 
tion, then learned the blacksmith's trade of his 
father, which he followed until about twenty-live 
years of age. He then worked as a miller, and 
having a natural taste for mechanical work he 
easily learned different trades, also followed drov- 
ing. In 1842 he was united in marriage with 
Eleanor Kerr, who was born about 1812, in Cross 
Creek township, this county, daughter of William 
and Eleanor (Lyle) Kerr. The children born to 
this union were: Elizabeth L. (living at home), 
Mary E. (deceased in early womanhood), Alex- 
ander S. (subject of our sketch), William Kerr (a 
farmer of Allegheny county, Penn.), and Eleanor 
J. diving with her brother Alexander on the home 
farm). Joseph and Eleanor (Kerr) Hays settled 
on the home farm after their marriage, where he 
followed farming and stock raising with marked 
success. He always voted with the Democratic 
party, and in religion he and his wife were mem- 



bers of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Hays died 
February 6, 1882, having been preceded by his 
wife September 30, 1871. 

Alexander S. Hays was born October 8, 1849, on 
the home farm, where he is now living, and re- 
received a common-school education, at the same 
time assisting his father to cultivate the soil. 
After the death of the latter, Alexander S. Hays 
purchased the '' Old Home Farm," where his an- 
cestors had located over one hundred years ago, 
and has since improved and cultivated the old 
place. He raises first-class stock, making a spe- 
cialty of fine horses, for which he possesses a strong 
admiration. He is a very progressive farmer, con- 
stantly making some new improvement, or illustrat- 
ing some new idea, and in 1891 he erected a hand- 
some new residence. Politically he is a prominent 
member of the Democratic party, having frequently 
served in township offices and given valuable as- 
sistance to the party in various ways. In religion 
he is a member of the Presbyterian Church. He 
has never married. 



n M RS. SARAH BELLE MORRIS was born 
l\/| in 1856, in Fallowtield township, Wash- 

I ■! I ington Co. , Penn. , a daughter of Joseph 

II -^ and Charlotte (Carson) Rider, both of 
v whom were born in 1822, also in Fallow- 
field township. Her father was reared from boy- 
hood to agricultural pursuits, and has been a 
practical, industrious farmer. Her parents are yet 
residing on the old homestead, at the age of 
seventy years, and two daughters have blessed 
their wedded life, viz. : Hannah E., wife of Lewis 
Carson, a farmer of West Pike Run township, and 
Sarah Belle, widow of Emery Morris. 

Emery Morris was born in 1855, on the old 
home place in Fallowtield township, Washington 
Co., Penn., a son of Jonathan and Elizabeth (Hill) 
Morris, both of whom are natives of Washington 
county, Penn. Elizabeth Morris is deceased; but 
Jonathan now resides on the farm in Fallowtield 
township, where the children were born, as follows: 
Isaac, living in Carroll township, Washington 
county; Emma J., wife of Henry Heanon, a farmer 
of West Pike Run township, and Emery, deceased. 
The last named attended the schools of the home 
neighborhood, and his life was passed in agricult- 
ural pursuits. He was married in 1876 to Sarah 
Belle Rider, and died March 15, 1890, deeply 
mourned by the many friends who knew and ap- 
preciated his worth. In politics he was actively 
identified with the Republican party, and was 
ever zealous in matters of public interest. Since 
the death of her husband, Mrs. Morris has con- 
tinued to reside on the farm, consisting of 104 
acres, on which are two good gas wells, each yield- 
ing an annual income of $500. Five children 



1 1 'A S II I X G TOX CO UN T Y. 



857 



have been bora to Mr. and Mrs. Morris, two of 
whom died in infancy; those now living are: Flor- 
ence, born in 1879; Eugene, born in 1885, and 
Noretta, born in 1888. 



AMU EL ORES WELL, one of the oldest, 
most intelligent and highly respected 
farmers of Jefferson township, Washington 
Co., Perm., is a grandson of James Cres- 
well, who came from Fort Deposit, Md. ; settled in 
Washington county about the year 1790; removed 
to Brooke county, W. Va., about 1800; was married 
to Miss Mary Johnston, a native of Lancaster 
county, Penn., and was engaged in agricultural 
pursuits. Their union was blessed with nine chil- 
dren, namely: Robert, John, Samuel, Margaret, 
Jane, Mary, Elizabeth, Catherine and James, all 
of whom died, leaving numerous descendants, who 
are scattered from the Atlantic to the Pacific 
oceans. 

Robert, the eldest son of James and Mary (John- 
ston) Creswell, was born December 23, 1780, and 
came to Washington county with his father in 
early life. Robert was reared on the farm, but 
turned his attention to milling soon after becoming 
of age, and built for himself a mill, now known as 
Ryland's Mill, Brooke Co., W. Va., which he 
operated for many years. He was united in mar- 
riage about 1808, with Miss Mary McCarrell, 
whose father, Thomas McCarrell, came from Ire- 
land at an early date, and took part in the Revoki-' 
tionary war, serving until the close of the conflict. 
To this union were born seven children, viz. : James, 
Eleanor, Thomas, Samuel, Robert J., Mary and 
Jane, of whom but two are living: James and 
Samuel. 

Samuel Creswell was born February 22, 1815, 
in Brooke county, Va. , and attended the common 
schools of that section. He afterward became a 
millwright, in which business he was successful, 
having built his first sawmill when but fourteen 
years of age. This mill is still in operation, and 
is known as the " Ryland's Mill." Among the many 
witnesses to the skill and ingenuity' of Mr. Cres- 
well are the old Wilson Mill, near West Middle- 
town; the McBain Mill in Columbiana county, 
Ohio, and the old mill now known as the " Kidd 
Mill," which Mr. Creswell built, and operated for a 
number of years. He afterward came to the farm 
where he has since continuously resided. He was 
married February 2, 1837, to Mary Cunningham, a 
native of Washington county, born April 25, 1820, 
a daughter of John Cunningham, who came from 
Ireland at an early date. She died August 9, 1890. 
She was the mother of four children, viz. : Su- 
sanna, married February 7, 1861, to William Han- 
lin (deceased) (she first settled in Washington 
county, but now resides at Richmond, Ohio. She 



has had eight children: Samuel (deceased), Rachel 
J., Grace M., M. D. , George A., Marie E., John 
D., and William F., deceased); Mary Eleanor (de- 
ceased), Rachel Jane and Emma F. Mr. Cress- 
well has been a stanch Democrat, and one of the 
counselors of hie party. He has 186 acres of fine 
land, and a comfortable home. In religion he 'has 
always been a consistent member of the Meth- 
odist Protestant Church. His daughter, Emma 
F., has been a photographer for several years, and 
has in her possession quite a number of historical 
photographs, the product of her own work. 




ENOPHON COOKE is a representative 
farmer, and is a descendant of an old time- 
honored family of Smith township. He is 
a great-grandson of James Cooke. James 
(the great-grandfather) was a native of 
Lancaster county, Penn. , where, in 1752, he was 
united in marriage with a native of the same coun- 
ty, who bore him the following children: James, 
born August 11, 1758; Dorcas, born October 12, 
1764; John, born December 29, 1766; David, born 
August 16, 1769; and Margaret, born February 
28, 1773. Little is known of this family, save that 
the father followed agricultural pursuits in Lan- 
caster county, Penn., and the three sons moved to 
Washington county soon after the Revolutionary 
war. James Cooke was reared to manhood in his na- 
tive county, and served as a commissioned officer in 
the Revolution, and about 1785 came to Washing- 
ton county. He purchased a tract of 649 acres in 
Smith township, situated about three and one-half 
miles south of Burgettstown, where he erected 
a rude cabin, and began to cultivate the virgin 
soil. On April 17, 1788, he was married to Hetty 
Galbraith, of Lancaster county, Penn., where 
Mary A. was born May 20, 1793. In 1795 the 
mother died, and Mary A., the only child then liv- 
ing, was taken to Lancaster county, Penn., by her 
mother's relatives, and was married to a Mr. Car- 
penter, of Lancaster, where her descendants still 
reside. On May 10, 1797, Mr. Cooke made choice 
of a second wife in the person of Martha McCombs, 
of Washington county, and to this union were born 
the following children: David, born March 28, 
1798; Julia A. (wife of JameB McDonald, a farmer 
of Washington county), born December 17, 1799; 
Samuel (deceased on the old homestead in 1879), 
born April 22, 1803; Jane (wife of Joseph Vance), 
born August 6, 1806; Dorcas (consort of Moses 
Lyle), born May 18, 1809; Oliver P. (a farmer of 
Smith township), born October 23, US14; and Ma- 
tilda (married to David Gault of Cross Creek town- 
ship), born May, 1817, all now deceased. James 
Cooke passed all his married life on the farm in 
Smith township, which eventually became one of 
the most valuable places of the neighborhood. 
David Cooke, the eldest son in the above named 



858 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



family, was born and reared on the home farm, and 
was united in marriage with Agnes B. Ritchey. 
She was born in 1808, in Harrison county, Ohio, 
afterward coming with her parents, Mr. aud Mrs. 
Charles Ritchey, to Washington county. Mrs. 
Ritchey was a member of the well-known Mc Will- 
iams family of Washington county. To the union 
of David and Agnes (Ritchey) Cooke children were 
born as follows: John (a carpenter, of Faducah. 
Ky., afterward enlisting in Company A, One Hun- 
dredth Regiment, the "Round Heads," serving 
until honorably discharged on account of physical 
disability), Xenophon (of whom further mention is 
made), Jane A. (Mrs. W. K. Lyle, of Washington, 
Penn. ), Martha J. (deceased wife of Rev. Alexan- 
der White, all. P. minister, of Washington county), 
Silas (a Presbyterian minister, of Nebraska, also a 
member of Company K, One Hundred and For 
tieth P. V. I., wounded in the battle of the Wil- 
derness), Marietta (wife of Prof. S. C. Farrar, 
of Allegheny, Peun.) and Oliver R. (a law- 
yer of the Pittsburgh bar). Although enjoying 
but meager educational advantages in early life, 
Mr. Cooke succeeded by close and earnest study 
in becoming a scholarly man, equal to many of his 
more favored neighbors. He read Greek and 
Latin, was a fine mathematician (becoming a 
prominent civil engineer), all of which he secured 
by close application after attaining the age of ma- 
turity. In his example the lesson is obvious to 
those yet in the prime of life who bemoan the lack 
or neglect of early education. ' ' Never too late to 
learn " is a trite maxim, but one whose truth is evi- 
dent in all cases where people have had the cour- 
age and perseverance to devote time (otherwise 
spent in a less profitable manner) to the acquire- 
ment of needed knowledge. Politically Mr. Cooke 
was formerly a Whig, afterward uniting with the 
Republican party, and served in several offices. He 
was a member and liberal supporter of the Pres- 
byterian Church in Cross Creek township. He 
died December 24, 1857; his widow is now resid- 
ing in Allegheny, Penn. 

Xenophon Cooke was born November 29, 1835, 
on the farm in Smith township where he is yet re- 
siding. On September 23, 1863, he was united in 
marriage with Jane Galbraith, who was born Oc- 
tober 20, 1835, daughter of William and Isabella 
(Welch) Galbraith, of Smith township, and two chil- 
dren have blessed this union: David M. (deceased 
at the age of twenty-two years) and Bella (an ac- 
complished young lady, living at home). After 
his marriage Xenophon Cooke settled on the home 
farm, aud has since followed agricultural pursuits. 
He is a very influential man, and in politics votes 
the Republican ticket, having been elected to dif- 
ferent offices, and was chosen a justice of the peace, 
but declined to serve. He and his wife are mem- 
bers of the U. P. Church at Burgettstown. 



AMUEL McCLAY, who is a son of David 
and Margaret (McElroy) McClay, was born 
February 25, 1853, upon the old farm in 
Canton township, Washington Co., Penn., 
where he passed his boyhood days and received 
his tirst lessons in the fundamental principles of 
success. He received a common-school education, 
and was early inducted into the mysteries of 
agricultural life. On March 4, 1873, he was 
united in marriage with Miss Sarah, a daughter of 
Joseph Wolf, who was one of the pioneer settlers 
of the county. The young wife lived but a short 
time after marriage, dying July 28, 1879, and on 
November 30, 1882, Mr. McClay married Miss 
Isabella, a daughter of John Fergus, whose father, 
Hugh Fergus, was born in Chartiers township, 
where he passed his early years, and ; on attaining 
the age of maturity, wedded Miss Nancy McClain. 
To them were born: Sarah (deceased wife of James 
Stewart), John (now living in Olathe, Kans. ), 
Mary (deceased wife of William Boone), Thomas 
(deceased), Agnes (Mrs. Matthew Miller). Martha 
(Mrs. Reed Miller), aud Hugh (deceased). Hugh 
Fergus was a self-made man, and always followed 
agricultural pursuits. He was a Whig, but held no 
political offices, and in religious views was formerly 
a Seceder, but afterward united with the United 
Presbyterian Church, and was a ruling elder. 
His son, John Fergus, was born in May, 1822, 
and beginning life for himself at an early age, 
became a most progressive aud energetic citizen. 
'He was married in March, 1844, to Miss Ellen, 
daughter of Samuel Martin, and then settled on a 
farm where he remained many years. Like his 
father, he was a member of the U. P. Church, and 
in politics was a Whig. 

After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. McClay 
settled upon the old home farm where they now 
reside. The children born to them are: Ora B., 
Eben M., Esther A. and Ellen Blanche. Mr. McClay 
is active in the rauks of the Republican party, and, 
like his ancestors, is a member of the Disciple 
Church. 



N- B. BUCKINGHAM was born August 3, 
1845, in Somerset township, this county, 
where he is now known as a successful and 
Jj -^ industrious farmer. He is a son of Igna- 
v tius Buckingham, who was born in 1817, in 

East Bethlehem township, this county, and being 
reared to agriculture, followed that vocation all 
his life. In early manhood he was united in mar- 
riage with Martha Baker, who was born in 1820. 
in East Bethlehem township, this county. Five 
children were born to this union, of whom three 
are yet living: Susan I. (wife of Henry Reade), 
Phoebe E. (unmarried) and N. B. (subject of this 
sketch). The father was a public-spirited man, 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



859 



holding various township offices. He died in 1885, 
and the mother is now living with her daughter, 
Susan I. 

N. B. Buckingham was reared on the home 
farm, receiving a district school education. In 
1872 he was married to Miss Nancy B. Camp, who 
was born February 25, 1843, in Washington 
county, Penn. She is a daughter of Peter (who 
was born in 1804) and Rosanna (Smiley) Camp 
(who was born November 9, 1805). Their chil- 
dren were born as follows: Owen. Mary, Phoebe 
(who married William Martin, of Greene county, 
Penn.), Emma (unmarried), William H. (a farmer 
of Somerset township), Matilda (wife of David G. 
Bonner), Nancy B. (Mrs. N. B. Buckingham), 
David G. , Maria (deceased) and Joseph (deceased). 
The father died in 1870, and in 1882 his wife was 
laid beside him. Both were members of the M. 
E. Church. To the union of N. B. and Nancy B. 
(Camp) Buckingham three children have been 
born: Walter H., born June 19, 1871; Frank R., 
bom in 1875; and Edwin C, born in 1879. Mr. 
Buckingham is a practical agriculturist, owning 
136 acres of fine, well-improved laud. He is a 
public-spirited citizen, interested in all progres- 
sive movements. He and his wife are members of 
the M. E. Church, of which he is a steward. 



El W. McCONNELL, a prosperous and intelli- 
gent young farmer of Independence town- 
ship, is a son of William and grandson of 
— George McConnell, a pioneer settler of 
Ashland county, Ohio. William McConnell re- 
ceived a limited common-school education, and' 
then left home and ran on the Ohio river from 
Pittsburgh to New Orleans. While on a visit to 
relatives in West Middletown, Washington Co., 
Penn., he met the lady who afterward became his 
wife, Martha Ann Culbertson (who was born Oc- 
tober 24, 1816, in Independence (then Hopewell) 
township, daughter of John Culbertson). Mr. 
Culbertson was born February 13, 1786, near 
Chambersburg, Penn., and was married to Martha 
Adams (who was born east of the mountains No- 
vember 10, 1777), daughter of David Adams, who 
was among the early settlers of Washington 
county, and an old river man. He made the re- 
turn trip from New Orleans on foot or horseback, 
subsisting meanwhile on corn dodgers. It was 
necessary to sleep out of doors, as the country was 
unsettled, and their dreams were often interrupted 
by the war-whoop of the savage or the scream of 
some wild animal. Mr. Culbertson was a resident 
of Independence township, where his daughter, 
Martha Ann, was born. Mr. and Mrs. William 
McConnell had the following children: Jane, John 
(both deceased in youth), E. W., Margaret (Mrs. 
Joseph Ralston, of Independence township), Annie 



M. (deceased in youth) and William (a farmer). 
After his marriage Mr. McConnell located on the 
old Culbertson farm, lying about two miles 
southeast of Independence, where he resided until 
his death. He also owned the place now known 
as the "McConnell Homestead," and was a pros- 
perous farmer. Politically he was a Democrat, 
and filled many offices of trust. His widow, a 
most estimable lady, is now living on the home 
farm, and is a consistent member of the Lower 
Buffalo Presbyterian Church, with which her de- 
ceased husband was also connected. 

E. W. McConnell was born August 2, 1849, on 
the place in Independence township, which was 
made a part of the homestead before the death of 
his father. His boyhood was passed in farm work, 
and receiving a common-school education, which 
was in supplemented by a partial course at Mount 
Union College, in Stark county, Ohio. He then 
taught school for some time in Elizabethtown, Ky., 
and afterward returned to his birthplace, where he 
has since resided. On October 6, 1881, he was 
united in marriage with Annie Gourley (who was 
born in 1862, in Brooke county, W. Va. ), daugh- 
ter of James Gourley, a native of that place; and 
to their union have been born children as follows: 
James G., Annie M. .Willard W.,and William Cul- 
bertson, an infant son. Mr. McConnell erected a 
pleasant residence on the home farm adjoining the 
original tract owned by his father, and engaged in 
farming. He is one of the progressive men in his 
vocation; in politics he has been a Democrat, but 
at present is independent of any party connection. 
Both he and his wife are members of the Lower 
Buffalo Presbyterian Church. 




ILLIAM A. SMILEY. There are men in 
all communities whose influence is felt 
rather than seen; whose lives and char 
acters, like the deep undercurrent of a 
mighty stream, have deeper, greater and weightier 
effects in moulding their surroundings and shap- 
ing the course of events, than others who in out- 
ward appearances may have an important showing 
in the affairs of the community. Among those 
quiet, earnest men, whose depth of character and 
firm uprightness of principles excite the admiration 
of those who know them, is William A. Smiley, 
who comes of a long line of honored ancestors. 

William A. Smiley was born April 22, 1848, in 
Hopewell township, this county. His father, 
Caldwell Smiley, was a son of William Smiley, 
who was of Scotch ancestry, and came to America 
at a very early day. He was one of the first 
elders of Upper Buffalo Presbyteriau Church, and 
with Robert Caldwell, in 1779 selected the site 
for the church. Prior to coming to Washington 
county, he had lived in York county, Penn. The 



sen 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



personal appearance of Mr. William Smiley is thus 
described ill "Old Redstone:" "He was a Scotch- 
man oT strong mind, very shrewd, and extremely 
pious. His manners were somewhat blunt, and 
he had an integrity and honesty about him which 
would not allow him to connive at anything he 
thought to be wrong. He disliked everything 
which in any way set aside the claims of religion, 
and did Dot give it its proper place in the business 

of life or tl DJoymenl of the social circle." It 

is related of Mr. Smiley that where at one time 
the church of Upper Buffalo had been unable for 
some years to pay the salary of Rev. James Smith, 
he volunteered to make the trip to New Orleans 
with a boat load of flour. Although sixty-four 
years of age, he made the trip successfully, and 
from the proceeds of the sale of the flour paid the 
church debt He died November 21, L813, aged 
eighty-two years. William Smiley was the father 
of seven children, their names and dates of births 
being as follows: Margaret, in January, 1796; 
William, October 30, 1797; John, November 22j 
17 ( .IU; Robert, October 10, L801; James, November 
II, 1803; Samuel. November 28, 1805, and ('aid 
well, August 5, 1807. After a long career of use- 
fulness, Mr. Smiley passed away at the age of 
eighty-two years. 

Caldwell Smiley, youngest son of William, was 
reared in Hopewell township, this county, and. 
after receiving a fair English education in the com- 
mon schools, engaged in farming. He was first 
married to a Miss Tweed, and after her death was 
united in marriage with Martha Smiley, daughter 
of Samuel Smiley, who bore him one son, William 
A Caldwell Smiley wielded a strong influence in 
the community in which he lived. In politics he 
was a Whig prior to the formation of the Repub 
licans, after which he became a strict adherent of 
the principles of that party. He possessed gnat 
determination and industry, and accumulated a 
handsome competence, the result of his own 
efforts. 

After the death of his mother, which occurred 
May 6, IMS, William A. Smiley was taken into 
the family of his uncle, where he remained, at- 
tending school, until eighteen years of age, when 
the failing health of his father obliged him to re- 
turn ami take charge of the home farm. On Octo- 
ber 1 . 1875, he was married to Miss Linnie A. Work, 
daughter of James and Margaret (Caldwell) Work, 
of Hopewell township, residing near Buffalo vil- 
lage. After his father's death. Mr. Smiley pur- 
chased the farm upon which he is DOW residing, 
containing I OS acres. He gives special attention 
lo the raising of sheep, hogs, horses ami cattle, ami 
the usual farm products. The children born to 
William A. and Linnie A. (Work) Smiley are: 
James O, Austin Vincent, William A., Viola M., 
Harold H, Elsie Belle, and one child deceased in 



infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Smiley are members and 
regular attendants of church and Sabbath-school 
of the Upper Buffalo Presbyterian Church. 



LYSANDER PATTERSON, a well-known 
surveyor in Washington county, Penn., was 
S born March 19, 1820, on the farm in Cross 
Creek township where he is yet living. He 
is a grandson of Thomas Patterson, and a son of 
William and Margaret (Lyle) Patterson, the latter 
of whom was a daughter of Hon. Aaron Lyle. 
Lysander Patterson attended the English Depart- 
ment of Washington College, under the tuition of 
Hon. John L. Gow, and also enjoyed the advan- 
tage of private lessons from the renowned mat he 
matician, Prof. John Armstrong, who was then 
teaching in Franklin College, New Athens, Ohio. 
After leaving school he returned to farming and 
surveying. • 

On March 27, 1845, Mr. Patterson was united in 
marriage with Elizabeth M., daughter of David 
Wallace, of Allegheny county, Penn. Mr. Patter- 
son owns ninety four acres of the old homestead, 
where his father first made a settlement. He is a 
stanch Democrat, and has served for many years 
as township auditor and justice of the peace. 



JOHN BAVINGTON McBRIDE was born on 
the farm on which he now resides in North 
) Strabane township, Washington Co., Penn., 
March 15, 1837. 

He received a good primary and more ad- 
vanced education at the common schools of his 
district, supplemented by an extended course of 
study at Jefferson College, then located at Canons- 
burg, this county. Indeed it may be truly said of 
him that he has been a life student, a diligent and 
thoughtful reader of selected books that furnished 
the best food for the mind, keeping himself posted 
in the current literature of the times, a close ob- 
server of men and things, and thus trained he has 
always been ready to take a leading part in all ques- 
tions and enterprises of interest to the community . 
In his political predilections he is a leading Dem- 
ocrat and a strong advocate of "clean politics.'' 
He has held with characteristic ability various 
township oflices. Without solicitation mi his part 
he was nominated for the Legislature in 1869, and 
again in 1890. In both contests he led his col- 
leagues, and although in a strongly Republican 
district, was defeated in both contests by less than 
11)0 votes. He was one of the corporators of and 
is a stockholder in the "Oak Spring Cemetery 
Company," located near Canonsburg, Penn. Mr. 
McBride has been twice appointed, by Gov. Patti- 
son, a member of the board of managers of Mor- 
gan/.a Reform school, and takes a special interest 








/^ % /S^L 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



si;:; 



in the commoQ schools in his community, having 
been for many years identified with their manage- 
ment, believing this to be the children's golden op- 
portunity. He is a zealous worker for their suc- 
cess, and in touch with such methods and appli- 
ances as will elevate and ennoble the schools. 

Mr. McBride's aucestral history is an interesting 
one. The great-grandparents of the present gener- 
ation of the most numerous family of Washington 
county McBrides were natives of near Belfast, 
County Antrim, Ireland, where they lived and 
died. The great-grandfather's name was Nathan- 
iel McBride and the great-grandmother's maiden 
name was Hamilton. The grandfather's name 
was James McBride, and the grandmother's maiden 
name was Sarah Sprowls; both were natives of 
"Ireland but were married in this country. Na- 
thaniel and some other brothers never came to this 
country. James McBride, when twenty-three 
years of age, came to America with his brothers, 
Isaac and Samuel, about 1772, and settled first on 
what was afterward taken up and known as the 
"' Washington lands " on Miller's run, Washington 
Co., Penn. Soon after their settlement here, Gen. 
Washington, at the suggestion of his agent, Capt. 
William Crawford, had a survey made of these 
lands, and on July 5, 1775, a military patent 
was issued to Washington for 2,813 acres, from 
Lord Dunmore, Governor-general of Virginia. 
In the meantime they, with other settlers, made im- 
provements on said lauds, believing, as Col. George 
Croghan, an Indian agent, told them, that Wash- 
ington had no right there and advised them to re- 
main. Washington's journal shows that on Sep- 
tember, 19, 1784, "he came to the settlement," 
but having learned that they were a religious 
people deferred his visit until " Monday, Septem- 
ber 20, went early this morning to view the land 
and to receive the final determination of those who 
lived upon it." . . . " Having obtained a pilot 
near the land, I went first to the plantation of Samuel 
McBride, who has about five acres of meadow and 
thirty acres of arable land under good fencing, a 
logged dwelling house with a puncheon roof and 
stable or small barn of the same kind. The land 
rather hilly but good, chiefly white oak. . . . Next 
James McBride's three or four acres of meadow, 
twenty eight acres of arable land, pretty good 
fencing, land rather broken but good, white and 
black oak timber mixed, a dwelling house and 
barn — of middling size — with puncheon roofs." 
His journal further shows that they with Thomas 
Biggert and nine others were ejected from their 
improved lauds in 1785. Samuel McBride and 
family, with his brother Isaac, a bachelor, went 
to Mahoning in eastern Ohio. James McBride, 
with Thomas Biggert and several others of those 
ejected, settled in what is now Robinson township, 
Washington Co. , Penn. These sturdy pioneer set- 



tlers felt that they were not justly treated by Gen. 
Washington, believing that they were entitled to 
their lands by improvement of them according to 
the custom of the country. Ejected from these 
homes which they had literally hewed out of the 
forest, defeated but not disheartened, they again 
entered the forest to carve out for themselves new 
homes. James McBride selected 240 acres, and in 
1785 secured a patent under the name of " Pump- 
ton " from the receiver-general's offices of Penn- 
sylvania, which pateut contained this unique clause: 
" Reserving only the fifth part of all gold and silver 
for the use of the commonwealth, to be delivered at 
the pit's month free of all charges. " This tract was 
owned successively by his sons, William and Alex- 
ander, and is now owned by his grandson, John C. 
McBride. Another grandson, William, now owns 
and lives upon a part of the " Washington lands " 
in Mt. Pleasant township. It is said that the Mc- 
Bride settlements were on the land now owned by 
Luther Morgan in said township. 

Mr. McBride's family was one of the three that 
first formed the organization of the Associate Pres- 
byterian Church of Clinton, Rev. William Wilson,, 
pastor. James McBride died October 0, 1827, 
aged eighty-four years, his wife died March 6, 
1838, aged eighty-one years, and both are buried 
in the Clinton Church cemetery. They had an 
issue of ten sons, as follows: Nathaniel, died in 
1860, aged eighty-two years; Francis, James and 
John were at their deaths aged fifty-nine, sixty- 
nine, and eighty-eight years, respectively; Mat- 
thew Hamilton, born in 1787, died March 12, 
1871, aged eighty-four years; Samuel died in 1877,. 
aged eighty-seven years; Isaac died aged eighty- 
three years; David died aged seventy-two vears; 
William, born 1797, died October 22, 1878," aged 
eighty one years; Alex., born in 1800, died Novem- 
ber 20, 1885, aged eighty-five years. By the help 
and industry of this large family of boys Mr. 
McBride accumulated a large estate, about eleven 
hundred acres of land, which he divided among 
his children. 

Matthew H. McBride was born in Robinson 
township, Washington Co., Penn., and received as 
liberal an education as the schools of his day af- 
forded. For a time he taught the district Bchool, 
and worked on the farm. He was by his father's 
will made one of the executors of the estate. He 
was married March 12, 1834, to Mary Bavington^ 
daughter of Capt. John and Ruth (McKiunon) 
Bavington, one of the pioneer families of Smith 
township. 

Captain John Bavington was born February 2, 
1750, and was married to Ruth McKinnon about 
the year 1785. On February 22. 1780, he took 
out a patent called "Mill Town," containing 404 
acres near the east branch of Raccoon creek. 
Soon after this he built a grist-and saw-mill,. 



864 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



which did the grinding and sawing for many miles 
around. He built a cabin on the hillside about a 
quarter of a mile east of the village of Bavington. 
Later he built a house on the part of the farm near 
the village of Bavington, where he lived until his 
death, which occurred June 23, 1810, under the 
following sad circumstances: He was on his way to 
Steubenville with a four-horse load of Hour, and 
when crossing the Ohio river at Kelly's Ferry, 
near the mouth of Harman's creek, the stamping 
of the horses Loosened the planks of the bottom of 
the boat, letting in the water till it sank, and 
both Capt. Bavington and the ferryman were 
drowned. Capt. Bavington's body was recovered, 
brought home and buried in the Cross Roads 
(now Florence) cemetery. He left a widow and 
five sons: Daniel, Charles, Henry, John and Thomas. 

His widow and eldest son, Daniel, were ad- 
ministrators of the estate, and the property was 
divided. Daniel obtained the homestead and 
mill property; later he sold the mill property to 
James Clark, Sr., and went to Illinois. Charles 
purchased mill property near Mnrdocksville, lived 
therefor a time, and then migrated to Ohio. Henry 
lived and died comparatively young at the home- 
stead. John received his portion of the estate in 
money, and went to Oregon. Thomas received the 
east portion of the farm now owned by D. Stewart 
McBride, and which was rated as one of the best 
farms in that part of the county. During the 
palmy days of the "Steubenville Pike," Thomas 
kept a public house for many years, it being about 
midway between Pittsbugh and Steubenville; there 
being quite a traffic between the-*e two places 
made it a good place for the accommodation of the 
public. He was a good and public-spirited citizen. 
In IS,")."), when the Pittsburgh & Steubenville Rail- 
road was first projected, he took an active part in 
securing it, and was a liberal subscriber to its 
stock, although the road was not located near 
li is farm. He lived upon this farm until his death, 
which occurred about the year 1803. Hischildren 
nearly all died during their minority; only one 
daughter. Eliza, now is living. 

Capt. Bavington had live daughters: Nancy 
married Matthew Hartford, a millwright who built 
the Bavington mill; Elizabeth married Charles B. 
Patterson, and they settled near Bavington, where 
both died; Sarah married a Mr. Backhouse, who 
owned a farm eight miles below Pittsburgh, now 
owned by the " Pennsylvania Insane Asylum" at 
Dismont (here she was killed August 27, 1851, by 
a passing train on the Pittsburgh & Ft. Wayne 
Railroad i; Catherine married J. Burns, and lived 
and died near Clinton, Allegheny Co., Penn. ; Mary 
married Matthew H. McBride, March 12, 1834, 
and settled in North Strabane township. The 
Bavington family is now entirely extinct in Smith 
township. 



To Matthew H. and Mary (Bavington) McBride 
were born three children, viz.: James Hamilton 
(who died October 23, 1862, from wounds received 
while in the service of the State that year), John 
Bavington (our subject), and Samuel Bruce (who 
graduated at Jefferson College in 1861, and who 
at the call of his country then enlisted in Company 
O (Capt. Frazer), One Hundred and Fortieth 
Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers: he was se- 
verely wounded at Fredericksburg, and was subse- 
quently discharged on account of this disability; 
as soon as his health permitted, he resumed his 
theological studies, and was licensed to preach by 
Chartiers U. P. Presbytery; he now resides near 
Sewickley, Allegheny Co., Penn.). In 1824 Mr. 
McBride and his brother, David, bought the home- 
stead in North Strabane township, which they 
jointly held until November 3, 1835, when Mat- 
thew bought David's interest in the farm. This 
farm is located in what is known as the "Rich 
Hill section," three miles south of Canonsburg, 
and one mile from Johnson's Station, C. V. R. R. 
Immediately after buying David's interest, Mr. 
McBride with his wife permanently located on the 
farm, bringiug up their children to manhood. 
Here the parents died, Matthew H. McBride, Sep- 
tember 12, 1871, aged eighty-four years, his wife 
February 12, 1873, aged seventy-six years. They 
were members of the Associate (now United Pres- 
bj'terian) Congregation of Chartiers, where the 
venerable Dr. James Ramsey, so long ministered. 
Mr. McBride was an old-school Democrat, but 
never made himself prominent in politics. In 
educational matters, however, and in every other 
question claiming the earnest consideration of 
thinking men, he took a deep interest, and he 
served as school trustee in his township for many 
years. He was a progressive farmer and successful 
stock raiser. 

After his parents' death, J. B. McBride ob- 
tained full control of the farm, and on May 1, 
1873, he was married to Alice, daughter of Maj. 
James S. Scott, of Washington county, Penn. An 
interesting family of sis children have come to 
brighten their home, as follows: James Scott, 
John Bavington, Charles Cubbage, Samuel Bruce, 
Mary Alice and George Wallace. The mother of 
these children dying November 17, 1884, Mr. Mc 
Bride wedded on June 28, 18X7, Frances Emma 
Jones, of Canonsburg, Penn., whose parents were 
Ephraim Jones, of Jones Ferry, Pittsburgh, and 
Mary E. Rambo, of Covington, Ky. By this union 
there is no issue. The family are members of and 
liberal contributors toward the Chartiers TJ. P. 
congregation, Canonsburg, Penn. , and enjoy the 
respect and esteem of the entire community. Mr. 
McBride is extensively engaged in general agricult- 
ure and stock raising. He is noted as a thorough 
and successful farmer in a region celebrated for 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



865 



its good farms and its model farmers. Like his 
father, he has devoted much of his income to the 
improvement and adornment of his farm, and as a 
result he has now one of the most desirable and 
best improved farms in this section of Washing- 
ton county. In all his undertakings he has met 
with well-merited success, a success due to his per- 
severance, sound judgment and progressive enter- 
prise. 



JENNIE A. MORGAN. From time immemo- 
rial it has been the custom of all nations to 
extol, in story and in song, the valor of those 
who have performed gallant deeds in time of 
war, but it. has been left to civilized nations to 
commemorate that truer manliness, that nobler 
courage, which enables men to live uprightly and 
deal justly, seeking no preferment or approval save 
that of God and their own consciences. In heat 
of battle, men long trained in the grim trade of 
war, without forethought oft achieved most daring 
deeds. Shall the soldier hero receive a greater 
tribute of respect than one who silently, uncom- 
plainingly takes up his burden and tights back the 
thousand adverse fates that se6k to block his path- 
way to success ? Shall we wreathe the laurel and 
rear the beautiful arch for the one, and bury the 
memories of the other in the tomb that enshrines 
his mortal dust? Civilized — Christianized human- 
ity cries out against it. The deeds of a good man 
should live after him, and in these days of wide 
dissemination of thought, the transmission of the 
story from father to son is inadequate. Perpetu- 
ate his deeds, and thus perpetuate his influence. 
The pioneers of Washington county possessed such 
noble characteristics that not one whit of their 
lives' record should be lost. The old resideuts of 
Washington county look back over a long and uni- 
formly prosperous period, which is attributed to 
the mode of life of the people. No county in the 
State has been more favored, and no county in the 
State can exhibit better public institutions than 
this; and this condition of affairs can be traced to 
the efforts of the people who first settled the 
county, founded and fostered its religious and edu- 
cational institutions, and directed its political ca- 
reer. It has been said that the pioneers of Wash- 
ington county were a God-loving people, whose 
first thought upon entering the wilderness was to 
erect an altar to His worship, and from whose cab- 
ins rose at morn and eve the voice of praise, 
thanksgiving and appeal. Such were the founders 
of Washington county, and such were the ances- 
tors of the subject of this sketch. 

Miss Jennie A. Morgan's (of West Middletown, 
Penn.) maternal grandfather, William Greer, came 
to America when western Pennsylvania was still a 
wilderness. William Greer was born and reared 



in Ireland. Emigrating about the time he became 
of age, he settled in Lancaster county, Penn., 
where he was afterward married to Jane Graham. 
About the year 1S05, William Greer and family (a 
child having been born in Lancaster county) pushed 
westward into Washington county, locating near 
Noblestown, where they remained until 1836. They 
then removed to Hopewell township, and in 1845 
settled in West Middletown, where he died in \S'\'2. 
William Greer is described as a man of medium 
height, and of delicate rather than robust form. 
His constitution being shattered by the effects of 
fever and ague, he was an invalid for many years, 
but was cheerful and patient, having a kind dis- 
position and a pleasant word for all. He was very 
modest in demeanor, and withheld himself from 
publicity, but was very active in promoting Church 
matters, holding membership in the Grove United 
Presbyterian Church. He was a man of unusual 
intelligence, and an insatiable searcher for infor- 
mation. Being for many years unable to work, he 
found his chief diversion in books, and his solace, 
and comfort in his family and Church. Five chil- 
dren were born to William and Jane (Graham) 
Greer: Margaret (married James Maxwell, and 
resided in Hopewell township until her death in 
1870); Jane (lived in West Middletown until her 
death, which occurred in 1890); Elizabeth (men- 
tioned below); John (left home and died when a 
young man), and Mary (wife of James France, of 
West Middletown, where she died in 1866). Of 
these children, Elizabeth Greer was born Febru- 
ary 5, 1810, on the home place, and in 1832 was 
married to Billingsley Morgan, a native of Alle- 
gheny county, Pennsylvania. ' 

Billingsley Morgan was born in 181 1. He was 
a son of Hugh Morgan, who came with his parents 
to western Pennsylvania, settling on the old Mor- 
gan tract about twelve miles below Pittsburgh, 
when the county was very new, and secured their 
land by "tomahawk right." The times were un- 
settled, and the Indians very hostile, the settlers 
having to take refuge in the forts and blockhouses 
to escape being massacred. Billingsley received a 
common-school education, and after his marriage, 
in 1833, opened a shoe store in West Middletown, 
Penn., where he remained until his death in March, 
1836. He left two daughters — Jane A. (the subject 
of this sketch) and Margaret (deceased at the age 
of three years). At the time of his death Mr. Mor- 
gan was too young to have obtained great promi- 
nence in his community, yet he was regarded as a 
young man of extraordinary promise, and enjoyed 
the esteem of those with whom he was associated, 
possessing a bright, cheerful disposition, and fight- 
ing the adversities of life with smiles. He was a 
member of the Presbyterian Church. Mrs. Morgan 
was a member of the United Presbyterian Church 
at West Middletown. She was left alone to care 



806 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



for and educate her children while yet very young, 
but she performed every duty toward them, and at 
the same time her influence was felt in every de- 
partment of church work. Her devotion and piety 
were remarkable, and she was ever ready to assist 
in every plan for forwarding the course of moral- 
ity. She passed away August 14, 1872, her death 
being a severe blow to the entire community, and 
it was said of her that " a true Christian woman 
had gone home." 

The ladies of the Greer family have all been 
noted for their piety, and Miss Jane Greer (an 
aunt of our subject) was no exception to the rule. 
Having no family depending upon her she adopted 
the sick, suffering and distressed; wherever snch 
were to be found, Miss Jane Greer appeared, nurs- 
ing the sick, comforting the distressed and serving 
her Master as best she could. Her labors were 
not for glory or gain, but " she saw her duty and 
performed it and counted it naught." Miss 
Jennie A. Morgan, like the other members of her 
• family, is a devoted member of the Church, and 
none of the precepts and examples of the others 
have been lost on her. Though frail in form and 
an invalid during much of the time, her influence 
is felt in the community, and while prevented by 
her infirmity from following the philanthropic 
example of other members of her family to the 
same extent, she " hath done what she could/' and 
none could do more. She is a member of the 
Grove United Presbyterian Church, and, following 
the rule long established in her family, contributes 
the tenth part of her income to the support of 
church work, in addition thereto responding liber- 
ally to appeals for other worthy projects. Miss 
Morgan resides in West Middletown, Penu., where 
she has a pleasant home, and is much esteemed. 



¥|OHN SPHAR, The Sphar family have been 
identified with the history of Washington 
\(1] county for many years. Mattern Sphar was 
born in Switzerland, and, in company with 
two brothers and one sister, emigrated to America 
at the age of seventeen years, about the year 1760. 
He first settled in Williamsburgh, Va. , and 
on April 21, 1767, took the oath of allegiance 
under Queen Anne. He was there married to 
Margaret Shively. and in 1780 came to Washing- 
ton county, Penn.,and purchased of one Colonel 
Cooke 200 acres, on the Monongahela river, in 
what is now Washington county. He took an 
active part in the Whiskey Insurrection, and was a 
soldier in the war of 1812. He died about the 
year 1822, leaving three children: John, Mattern 
(who moved to Adams county, Ohio, thence to 
Indiana), and Henry (lived in this county). 

John Sphar was born in 1777, in Loudoun county, 
Va., and when but three years of age came 



with his parents to Washington county, Penn. He 
received a subscription-school education in Allen 
township, and when a young man was married to 
Susanna Redd, a native of Washington county, and 
reared the following children : Mary, wife of John 
Shively, in Guernsey county, Ohio; Jacob, was first 
married to Susan Wood, who died, and he was 
then married to Charlotte Wilson; Elizabeth, wife 
of Joseph Dunlevy; Daniel, married to Mary 
Speer, and lived in Kentucky; Ann, wife of Will 
iam Spah, of Indiana; Barbara, wife of William 
Hollingshead: Mattern, married to Margaret Coyle, 
of Ohio; Sarah, widow of Joseph Beazell, in Allen 
township; Rachel, married to Robert Gailey. of 
Clarion county, Penn. ; John, married to Lucy Ann 
Scott, and Henry. Of this family three are living, 
Sarah, John and Henry. The father voted with 
the Whig and Republican parties, and served as 
supervisor of the township. He and his wife were 
members of the Baptist Church. He died in 1856, 
having been preceded by his wife in 1852. 

John Sphar was born February 26, 1817, on the 
old place in Allen township, Washington county, 
Penn. In 1839 he was united in marriage with 
Lucy Ann Scott, a daughter of Parker and Sarah 
(Carson) Scott, all* of whom were natives of Fal- 
lowfield township. Her parents had twelve daugh- 
ters, of whom Mrs. Sphar is the only one yet living. 
Mr. Sphar owns seventy -five acres of the old home- 
stead, where he has followed general farming. He 
cast a vote for William Henry Harrison, and since 
the organization of the Republican party has been 
an earnest supporter of that faction; he has served 
as a member of the school board and also as super- 
visor. He is no less interested in religious than 
in political movements, having been licensed as an 
exhorter and class leader in the Ebenezer M. E. 
Church, with which his wife is also identified. The 
children of this influential family are as follows: 
Sarah, wife of William Rogers, of Fallowfield 
township; Parker S. ; Henry, married to a Miss 
McElhaney, of Armstrong county, Penu. ; James, 
deceased in his twenty-sixth year; John E. ; Ann, 
widow of Ephraim McKee; Gertrude, married to J. 
H. Redd, and Wesley, deceased at the age of nine- 
teen years. 



JOHN M. BERRY, a leading and influential 
farmer and stock dealer of North Strabane 
township, is a native of Washington county, 
Penn., born January 14, 1839. He is a de- 
scendant of John Berry, a native of Ireland, 
who immigrated to America, settling in pioneer 
days in Mt. Pleasant township, this county, where 
in about the year 1796 he purchased 251 acres of 
land. Here he passed the remainder of his days. 
He left two sons — John and William Gilmore — of 
whom John remained on the original tract, and 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



869 



followed agricultural pursuits, in which he was re- 
markably successful. 

William Gilmore Berry was boru in Colerain town- 
ship, Lancaster Co., Penn., December 2, 1781. In 
the spring of 1795 or 1796 he came with his father, 
John Berry, to Mt. Pleasant township, Washington 
Co., Penn., and when able to do for himself he moved 
to Venice, Cecil township, where he purchased a 
farm and mill property, afterward buying and set- 
tling on a farm in North Strabane township. In 
1804 he married Jane, daughter of Matthew Mc- 
Connell, and they had boru to them eight children: 
John, Mary, Elizabeth, Jane, William. Prudence, 
Matthew and James. About 1850 Mr. Berry re- 
tired from active work and took up bis residence in 
Canonsburg, where he died October 26, 1866; his 
wife died February 25, 1848, and they are both 
buried in the Canonsburg U. P. Church cemetery, 
they having been members of that church. 

John Berry, son of William G. and Jane (Mc- 
Connell) Berry, was born August 1 , 1 N< )5, near 
Venice, Cecil township, Washington Co. , Penn. On 
December 1, 1829, he married Jane, daughter of 
John Eagleton, a native of Ireland, and to them 
were born six children: Jane (married to Ebenezer 
Carson), Rachel (married to Robert Herron), Will- 
iam, John M. , David W. and Carson M. After 
marriage Mr. Berry resided for seventeen years on 
the Watson farm in Cecil township; then moved to 
and lived in Canonsburg for three years, after 
which he returned to Cecil township, remaining 
three years. He then, in 1853, came to North 
Strabane township, having purchased the "Am- 
sterdam" farm from the Pees brothers, where he 
passed the remainder of his life, with the excep- 
tion of five years he lived in the borough of Wash- 
ington. During the earlier period of his life he 
was a member of the Associate Reformed Church 
of Robinson's Run, then of Canonsburg, afterward 
joining the United Presbyterian Church, in which 
he was a member of the Session fifteen years, and 
after coming to North Strabane township he con- 
nected himself with the U. P. Church at Pigeon 
Creek. In his political preferences he was first a 
Whig, then a Republican with strong Abolition 
sentiments, and he held various offices of trust in 
his township. He died in June, 1881, and is 
interred in the TJ. P. cemetery of Pigeon Creek; 
his wife departed this life in January, 1844, and 
she is interred at Miller's Run. 

John M. Berry, the subject proper of these lines, 
passed his youth in the township of his birth, at- 
tending the common schools of the district, and 
learning practical lessons in agriculture on the 
home farm. In 1853 he came to North Strabane 
township with his father where he has since 
resided, with the exception of the time he was 
serving his country in the Civil war. In August, 



1862, he enlisted in Company G, One Hundred and 
Fortieth P. V. I., and followed the fortunes of his 
regiment until the battle of Spottsylvania, where 
he was wounded in the left shoulder. They were 
fighting in what was called the "Bloody Angle," 
and our subject was one of the first, if not the first, 
to get inside the rebel redoubt; he was on the 
right of the foremost company which led that 
famous charge. The company numbered twenty- 
one men, and nearly half of them were killed or 
wounded. Mr. Berry, after spending, in all, six 
months in hospital, recovered from his wound and 
proceeded to Washington, D. C. , where he re- 
mained on duty till the close of the war, being 
mustered out June 28, 1865. He then returned 
home and settled down to the vocation of peace on 
his farm in North Strabane township, where he 
carries on general agriculture and is extensively 
engaged in stock raising, but he is best known to 
the public as a successful breeder and exhibitor of 
"Bhick-Top Merino Sheep," for which he has a 
large sale all over the United States. 

On December 22, 1870, Mr. Berry married Mary 
J., daughter of Samuel L. Weir, of Somerset town- 
ship, this county, and the children born to this 
union were Samuel C. (deceased), Minnie J., John 
L. W. and William E. Mr. and Mrs. Berry are 
prominent members of the U. P. Church at Pigeon 
Creek, in which he is an elder. In politics he is a 
Republican, and has faithfully served his township 
in various official capacities. In 1885 he was 
elected justice of the peace, and again elected in 
1890, which office he fills with emiuent ability. Mr. 
Berry has been successful and prosperous in his 
many business interests, and is the owner of a 
highly improved farm of 178 acres, well adapted to 
stock raising. In 1890 he erected one of the hand- 
somest and most commodious residences to be 
found in Washington county, finished throughout 
with natural woods, and equipped with all the 
latest improvements in plumbing, having hard and 
soft, hot and cold water in both first and second 
stories. 

David W. Bebry, sou of John and Jane (Eagle- 
ton) Berry, and brother of John M. , was born in 
Cecil township, Washington Co., Penn., in April 
1841. He passed his youth in the township of 
his birth, and in 1853 moved with his father to 
North Strabane township. He attended the com- 
mon schools of the district, and afterward entered 
Jefferson College, at Canonsburg, where he pros- 
ecuted his studies with success until the close of 
the sophomore year, when, along with his brother, 
John M., he enlisted in Company G, One Hundred 
and Fortieth P. V. I. He followed the fortunes of 
his regiment, participating in all of its battles up 
to that of Cold Harbor, where, on June 2, 1864, he 
was mortally wounded, dying in the hospital at 



NTH 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Alexandria, Va., on July 4, 18(34; his remains are 
interred in the cemetery of the U. P. Church at 
Pigeon Creek, Washington county, he having been 
a member of that Church. 



f OHN P. WOOD, in his lifetime one of the 
. I leading citizens of Burgettstovra, came of 
^J English ancestry. His grandfather, Peter 
Wood, was born and reared in the mother 
country, where he married, and reared a large 
family. They crossed the ocean and settled in 
Philadelphia, Penn. , where the grandfather en- 
gaged in the wholesale dry-goods business. Some 
time later the family moved to Bucks county, 
same State, where they resided several years. He 
was a Quaker prior to his marriage, but, having 
made choice of a Baptist wife, was on that account 
dismissed from the Society. He died in Philadel- 
phia. 

Ingham Wood was born on the home farm in 
Bucks county, Penn., where his boyhood was 
passed. In early life he spent three years as an 
apprentice in the pottery business, continuing in 
that vocation the rest of his life. He was married 
in Lancaster county, Penn., to Catherine Hoffman, 
who bore him the following children: Ingham B. 
(who was a graduate at West Point, and a lieuten- 
ant at Fort Snelling, dying at Baton Rouge), 
Ann E. (Mrs. William B. Whitehill, of Salt Lake 
City, Utah), Margaret (wife of James Phillips, of 
St. Louis, Mo.), John P. (of whom special mention 
is made further on), William, Benjamin F., Har- 
riet (married to Dr. Donnan), and Jackson. In 
1834 the father moved from Lancaster county, to 
Peoria, 111., and thence proceeded to St. Louis, 
Mo. ; but his wife dying, he afterward returned to 
Lancaster county. He died at Cedar Rapids, Iowa. 

John P. Wood was born November 27, 1815, in 
Lancaster county, and passed his boyhood in the 
town of Lancaster. At the age of seventeen years 
he began to learn the pottery trade, serving a full 
apprenticeship with his father. When twenty-one 
years of age he came to Burgettstown, purchased 
a pottery establishment of Robert Brown, con- 
ducted that business for sixteen years, then sold 
out and bought the farm upon which he resided 
until March, 1877. On January 2, 1839, he was 
united in marriage with Esther M. , daughter of 
Thomas Miller, iand grandchild of Samuel Miller, 
the latter of whom was a native of Ireland, and 
was married in that country to Miss McNinch. 
They came to America, and resided iu Cecil 
county, Md., until 1795, thence moving to Mt. 
Pleasant township, Washington Co., Penn., where 
he purchased a large tract of land. Both were 
members of the Seceder Church, and their chil- 
dren were Thomas, John, Samuel, Jane, Margaret, 
Mary and Sarah. 



Thomas Miller was born July 15, 17S8, in Cecil 
county, Md., where he grew to manhood, and on 
July 10, 1809, was united in marriage with Eliz- 
abeth, daughter of Richard Simpson. The young 
couple immediately moved to Washington county, 
making their unique bridal trip on horseback, and 
resided in Mt. Pleasant township until 1810, when 
they purchased a hotel in Burgettstown, Penn. 
Five children were born to their marriage, viz.: 
Anna M. , Elizabeth, Samuel, John and Esther M. 
Mr. Miller was a drover in early life, buying and 
selling cattle, and driving them over the mountains 
to the eastern markets. He was captain in the 
militia during the war of 1812, and assisted in the 
defense at Lake Erie. He kept the first postoffice 
in Burgettstown, Penn. He was a member of the 
Seceder Church, and in politics voted the Demo- 
cratic ticket. He died September 3, 1819, his 
widow in 1871. 

John P. Wood passed suddenly away, June 27, 
1892, his death being unexpected to all. He was 
the architect of his own fortune, and was his own 
success. He took an active part in politics, voting 
the Democratic ticket, and at the time of his de- 
mise was serving his third term as justice of the 
peace. He was a member of the U. P. Church, 
and one of the building committee who superin- 
tended the erection of the present house of wor- 
ship in Burgettstown. 




OBERT MEHAFFEY (deceased) was an 
example of the success which may be won 
by frugality and industry, coupled with 
business sagacity. His father, Robert Me- 
haffey, was a native of Ireland, who emi- 
, in early life, to America, where he was 
married to Eleanor Mitchell, of Scotch- Irish par- 
entage. Their children were: James, Joseph. 
Robert (the subject of this sketch), Mitchell, Jaue, 
John and Eleanor. 

Robert Mehaffey was born December 4, 1810, 
in Donegal township. His boyhood was passed 
near his birthplace. His education was limited to 
two or three months' attendance each year at a log 
schoolhouse provided with rude wooden benches, 
a puncheon Uoor, and in the absence of a door a 
sheet coveredHthe vacancy. When Robert was 
thirteen years oPage, their home was darkened by 
a sudden calamity. It was in the harvest field, and 
the father had just completed a stack of hay. and 
was sliding to the ground, when a wooden fork 
which had been placed, prongs upward, against 
its side, penetrated his bowels. He was carried 
to the shade of a tree, and in a few hours the 
strong man, in the prime of life, was dead. The 
mother, left with seven children, the youngest but 
a little over one year old, on a small farm, man- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



871 



aged not only to exist, but to live well, and there 
her children acquired those sterling principles and 
practical knowledge which formed the basis of 
most successful business lives. 

As the years rolled on the family dispersed. 
James purchased and removed to a farm a few miles 
distant, where he resided until his death, March 16, 
1858. Joseph, being of a more roving disposition 
than his brothers, "pitched his tent" southward, 
making his home near Vicksburg, Miss. After an 
absence of twenty-one years he returned, purchased 
land near the old homestead, and continued to reside 
there until his death, May 22. 1891. Mitchell and 
Jane married. The mother died in 1840; the sister, 
Eleanor, a few years later; and Robert ami John 
were left alone on the home farm. They needed not 
the admonition which Joseph gave his brethren, 
"See that ye fall not out by the way," for in all 
their daily intercourse and business transactions 
they never had a dispute as to " which should be 
the greater." On June 22, 1858, Robert married 
Mary McCoy, daughter of Kenneth and Jane 
(Brownlee) McCoy. To them three children were 
born: Jennie E. (wife of Rev. \Y. R. Jamison, a 
U. P. minister of Frankfort, Beaver county), Jo- 
seph B. (one of the leading and progressive 
farmers of Independence township, living on the 
home farm of which he has charge) and Lizzie M. 
(residing with her mother and brother). In 1864, 
Mr. Mehaffey removed to Independence township, 
having purchased the "Jackson Spriggs'' farm, 
situated two miles northeast of Dunsfort, where 
he resided the remainder of his life. In politics 
he was a stanch Republican, and in religion a 
valued member of the U. P. Church of Mt. Hope. 
At the time of his death, August 17, 1890, Mr. 
Mehaffey owned 864 acres of unusually good farm 
laud, besides a comfortable income. Though he 
almost reached four-score years, yet the infirmities 
of age sat lightly upon him. His cheerful dispo- 
sition and equable temper made him seem younger 
than he was. Diffident and retiring in disposition, 
his many excellencies were more appreciated in the 
home circle, and by those who were his neighbors, 
than by the noisy world around. 



JOHN McCABE, who ranks among the oldest 
and most prosperous citizens' of Peters town- 
ship, is a sou of Joseph E. McCabe, whose 
father, William McCabe, born and reared in 
Ireland, came to the United States about 17JS3 and 
settled in North Strabane township, Washington 
Co. He followed carpentry, and erected many of 
the buildings in that locality. His eight children 
were James, William, Samuel, John, Robert, 
Joseph E., a daughter (name unknown), and 
Martha, all of whom have passed away, leaving 



many descendants. He was an elder in the Hill 
Presbyterian Church. 

Joseph I*. McCabe, son of William, was born in 
February, 1790, in North Strabane township. His 
youth was passed in rural pursuits, and he then 
carried on a distillery for several years. Wheu a 
young man, he married Margaret Fife, born in 
L790, a daughter of John Fife, a resident of 
Allegheny county, Penn., and to them the follow- 
ing children were born: Eliza, John, William, Isa- 
belle, Mary, Thompson and Lavinia. Of these Eliza 
and William are deceased, while the others are 
living in different parts of the United States. 
After his marriage he settled on a farm in Alle- 
gheny county, and carried on a distillery. After 
his children were born, the father abandoned the 
distillery business, and followed carpentry for 
some time. He finally settled on a farm, and in 
1818 had one of the finest places in Allegheny 
county; but owing to a sudden financial depres 
sion, he was eventually compelled to give up his- 
home. He was a colonel in the State militia, and 
for almost half a century commanded a battalion 
in the county as well as in Pittsburgh. He was- 
possessed of excellent business qualifications, was 
one of the best educated agriculturists then living 
in that locality, an excellent justice of the peace 
and one of the most capable militia officers of the- 
State. He died February 5, 1870, his wife having 
preceded him to the grave, July 29, 1831. In 
church connection they were members of the Pres- 
byterian Church; in politics he was a Democrat. 

John McCabe, the subject proper of this sketch, 
was born August 16, 1814, in Allegheny county, 
Penn., and at the age of seventeen years, began 
work by the month for neighboring farmers. On 
February 9, 1837, he married Sarah, daughter of 
Robert Thompson, of Peters township, and after 
their marriage the young couple remained in Alle- 
gheny county for two years, then removed to their 
present farm in Peters township, Washington 
Co., Penn., containing 225 acres of good land. 
Their children are Robert (a farmer, now living in 
Canonsburg), Joseph (an agriculturist, of Peters 
township), and Catharine and John (both deceased). 
Mrs. McCabe was laid to rest September 14, 1879, 
and since then her husband has continued to reside 
on the old place, keeping a family in the house to 
care for the property. He has made a specialty of 
sheep raising, and given much attention to general 
farming. Politically, Mr. McCabe is an enthusi- 
astic Democrat, and he served as supervisor of his 
township. In matters of religion he is a member 
of the Centre Presbyterian Church, which he has 
served as trustee. Though almost eighty years 
old, he retains much of the strength which marked 
his younger days, and can hitch up his horse and 
ride where he pleases, without the aid of hostler 
or driver. 



iu' 



WASIIIAGTON CGI XT) 



THE HESLEP FAMILY. Robert B. Hes- 
lc|> (deceased) was a grandson of Thomas 
Heslep. who was a prominent fanner of 
Coatsville, Chester Co., Penn. Desiring to 
own more land, and knowing of the grand 
resources which the Monongahela Valley afforded, 
In- concluded to looate there. He brought with 
him his two sons, and purchased a tractof land on 
tin- Monongahela river in 1792. Remaining with 
his two suns a short time, he returned to his home 
In Chester county, ami there died at a ripe old 
age. He served through the Revolution, and had 
acquired a good estate. 

John Heslep, a sun of Thomas, was born at 
Coatsville, in Chester county, and was among the 
early settlers of Washington county. Arriving at 
manhood he married .Miss Polly Grant, an accom- 
plished and well to do farmer's daughter of New 
Jersey. The following children were born to this 
marriage: John 1). Heslep, at one time a student of 
the Western University of Pittsburgh, afterward 
read law with Judge Hampden, of Pittsburgh, was 
admitted to the bar; he formed a law partnership 
with a Mr. Sliker, and the firm was known as 
'Slik,.,- & Heslep," of Pittsburgh. He died, a 
bachelor, in 1S7N. 

Thomas Heslep is a well-known school teacher 
of Washington county, and a member of the 
Pigeon Creek Presbyterian Church. 

George T. Heslepis a popular major in theState 
militia. He raised two sous who served through 
the Civil war, fighting for the grand old Hag of the 
1 uion. 

Hubert B. Heslep, the youngest son, was born 
April 19, 1819, in Carroll township, and there 
passed the days of his boyhood. At eighteen 
yens of age he was commissioned captain of a 
company in the State militia, and held that posi 
tiou up to 1849. On November 29, 1849, he mar- 
ried .Miss Margaret, a daughter of Ezekial Job, an 
early Jersey settler and well-to-do farmer of Eliza- 
beth township, Allegheny Co., Penn.. whose peo 
pie were among the early explorers ami active 
Revolutionary soldiers of this country. The chil- 
dren born to them are as follows: Thomas McK. f 
a prominent member of the Good Templars, and 
among the leading workers for local option in Car- 
roll township in 1N7L!; -lames Heslep, a farmer; 
I). Grant Heslep (deceased); W. R. Heslep, who 
entered the Sr. Prep, class of Washington 
and .Jefferson College in September, 1887, and 
remained in that college for four terms. N'ot 
satisfied with the system of teaching, he removed 
to Waynesburg College in January, 1889, and 
graduated in the classical course with the class of 
1891. He was a member of the Philomat hean 
Literary Society of the college, and is now an 
honorary member. He was twice chosen a candi- 
date to represent the society as orator for the 



Interstate Oratorical Contest, but never served. 
lb- decided upon the law for a profession, and regis- 
tered with the well known lawyer. John H. Mur- 
doch, of Washington, Penn., ami is there pursuing 
his studies. Noah John Heslep was the youngest 
son of Robert I!. Heslep. He died in January, 
1892. He was a fair scholar, ;i natural genius in 
the mechanical line, and was highly respected and 
loved by the people and family. He was noted for 
his veracity and business integrity, as well as for 
his high moral character, but a kinder Father took 

him to His everlasting ho at the age of twenty 

one years; Harriet P. Heslep, the only daughter. 
is a member of the Webster M. E. Church, and 
remains with her aged mother, leading a useful 
and happy life. The one hundredth anniversary 
of their location in Carroll township was cele- 
brated by the Heslep family in June, 1892. Mr. 
Heslep was an industrious, economical man. and 
accumulated a good property. Politically he voted 
with the Republican party, also taking an active 
interest in all religious work. He died October '1, 
1S7*_', and his widow is now residing on the home 
place, in the old house which was elected in 1801. 
The farm, which is now carried on by the sons. 
consists of Hitl acres, and includes a lovely grove 
often used for picnic purposes, and is known as 
Heslep's Grove. 



AXTON FAMILY. The beautiful "Erne- 
aid Isle'* has contributed largely to the pop 
niatiou of Hanover township, and among 
those of her sons who sought a home in 
America, many years ago, was David Saxton. 

He was born about 1775, in Ireland, and when a 
young man came to America, remaining some years 
in eastern Pennsylvania, and in 1796 came to 
Washington county, Perm., locating in what is 
now Hanover township, about two and one-half 
miles northeast of Florence, near the old site of 
Fort Dillo. Here he purchased and moved upon 
forty acres of land, and in 1S0O was married to 
Elizabeth Moore, widow of Samuel Moore twith 
whom he got forty acres more), an early settler 
and very extensive landholder of that locality. 
The children of David and Elizabeth Saxton were as 
follows: Samuel, James (who resided fur some time 
on the old farm in Hanover township, finally dis 
posing of it to his brother Samuel, then moved to 
Missouri, locating near California), Harriet (wife 
of William Burns, and a resident of Hanover town- 
ship), Nancy (Mrs. John Saxton, living in Cumber- 
land county, Penn.) and Mary (married to Collins 
Kimmell, of Hanover township). Of this family 
Nancy is the only one yet living. The parents 
passed their lives on the pioneer farm, in a rude 
log cabin, which stood for several years afterward. 
He was a farmer, also carrying on a distillery, a 




>£ 




WASHING TON COUNTY. 



875 



common practice among the early settlers. At 
that time wild animals were yet numerous in the 
country, and his son James once killed a deer not 
far from home. In politics the father was a Whig. 
He and his wife both died at an advanced age, and 
they were buried side by side in Frankfort cem- 
etery. She was an exemplary Christian woman, 
and a member of the Frankfort Presbyterian 
Church. 

Samuel Saxton, son of David and Elizabeth 
(Moore) Saxton, was born July 27, 1801, on the 
old farm, and, being the oldest son, a great deal of 
work fell to his share. He was thus deprived of 
even such meager educational facilities as were 
then afforded, having but little opportunity to 
attend school. When but eighteen years of age 
he and his father made an agreement by which he 
was to have the use of the home farm for ten years. 
He at once began to work at whatever would yield 
him an income, and, in addition to his farm inter- 
ests, looked after the hauling of coal to certain 
sections where that article was scarce, realizing a 
considerable profit from this source. In the fruit 
season he carried the produce of vines and orchard 
to Ohio, Canton, New Philadelphia, and other 
places; then, on his return, bought oats and hauled 
them to Pittsburgh, where they were sold at a good 
price. He was an excellent judge of horses, which 
knowledge was instrumental in making some good 
purchases and excellent sales. He was equal to, 
if not the best reinsman in Hanover township at 
that time, and on several occasions accomplished 
feats with six-horse teams, pronounced impossible 
by other skilled drivers. He always possessed some 
good specimen of the equine variety, often keeping 
them for sale. By using economy, he continued to 
prosper, owning over 400 acres of land, paying 
$11 per acre for the tirBt 100 acres, upon which he 
erected a substantial brick residence, where he re- 
sided during his natural life time. He was an Old- 
line Whig till 1864, then became a Democrat, sup- 
porting that party the rest of his life. When the 
law of Pennsylvania required the militia to muster, 
he was captain of a company. On October 15, 
1833, he was married to Jane Dougherty, who was 
born August 3, 1801, a daughter of James Dough- 
erty, a merchant of Washington, Penn., who was 
atone time elected recorder of Washington county, 
and whose children became illustrious citizens. To 
the union of Samuel and Jane Saxton children 
were born as follows: James D. , Samuel S. and 
Margaret. The father died June 14, 1875, followed 
by his wife February 3, 1883, and they now lie side 
by side in the Florence cemetery. Both were mem- 
bers of the Presbyterian Church at Florence, this 
county. 

Samuel S. Saxton was born June 26, 1838, on 
fhe old farm in Hanover township, this county. 



He first attended the common schools, supplement 
ing this training by a course at the Paris Academy 
and then at Florence. After leaving school he 
taught in Beaver, Allegheny and Washington coun- 
ties; then became a traveling representative (as a 
collector) of Hosteter & Smith, of Pittsburgh, 
Penn., the extensive manufacturers of patent med- 
icines, his territory being through Illinois. On 
September 30, 1875, he married Maggie J. Melviu, 
who was born August 17, 1846, daughter of John 
and Mary (Moore) Melvin. The children of this 
marriage are: Samuel Lawrence and Silas Warren, 
both of whom are improving their educational ad- 
vantages. Mr. Saxton has always lived on the 
place of his birth, and has given his attention prin- 
cipally to buying and selling stock, also super- 
vising the farm work; being apt in driving success- 
ful bargains, and dealing honestly and fairly in 
all business transactions, he has been crowned with 
honor and financial success. He is a most inter- 
esting companion, a jovial and intelligent conversa- 
tionalist. 

In politics his sympathies are with the 
Democratic party, to which his support is usually 
given, but he always votes according to the ability 
of the candidates. Mrs. Saxton, a pleasant lady, is 
a member of Cross Roads Presbyterian Church. 
As a wife and mother she has no superior, always 
kind and generous to all with whom she comes in 
contact. Their beautiful home lacks no comfort, 
and is situated in a charming spot. 

James D. Saxton was born January 21, 1835, 
in Hanover township, this county, on a farm ad- 
joining his present home. He attended the coun- 
try schools of his neighborhood, and passed his 
youth working on his father's farm. On August 
22, 1861, he married Mary Applegate. a daughter 
of Isaac Applegate and Margaret Proudtit, the 
latter of whom was a daughter of James Proudtit, 
who was a justice of the peace thirty years, and a 
ruling elder in the Florence Presbyterian Church 
for nearly fifty years; he died over thirty-five years 
ago, at the age of ninety six. James D. and Mary 
Saxton are the parents of the following children: 
George M. O, Florence P., Addie May, Samuel 
J. and Elmer Wylie, all yet living at home except- 
ing George M. C. , who is residing in Hanover 
township. 

After his marriage Mr. Saxton resided with his 
parents for six years, then came to his present well- 
improved farm, where his grandfather had located 
nearly one hundred years ago. He followed gen- 
eral farming and stock raising until quite recently, 
and is now partially retired from active life, the 
sons performing the laborious part of the work 
under his direction. Mr. Saxton is one of the 
substantial Democrats of Hanover township, and 
has held several local offices. 



876 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 




L. HENRY is a son of Joseph Henry. The 
latter was born in 1811, in Washington coun- 
ty, Perm., and attended school in the home 
neighborhood. In 1833 he was united in 
marriage with Margaret Orr, also a native 
of Washington county, Penn. They passed their 
lives on the home farm, where seven children were 
born to their marriage, of whom two are now de- 
ceased. He served the township in various ways, 
and died in 1889, his wife passing away in the 
same year. She was also born in 1811. 

A. L. Henry was born in 1849, in Nottingham 
township, where his school days were passed. He 
spent one year in Allegheny county, Penn. , and on 
October 28, 1891, was married to a Miss Craw- 
ford. She is a daughter of Benjamin Crawford, an 
old and prosperous farmer of this county, who died 
several years ago. Mr. Henry has been engaged 
in the piano and organ business for years, and is 
still in the same business. J. A. and M. W., and 
also a sister, M. A. Henry, reside on their tine farm 
of 165 acres. 




NDREW B. DONALDSON. No man has 
been more closely identified with the best in- 
terests of Hanover township than this well- 
known gentleman, who is a lineal descend- 
ant of William Donaldson. 

William Donaldson was born in Ireland, where 
he was a farmer, and was married to Mary Mitchell. 
He emigrated to America, and located in Hanover 
township at a very early date, settling on the same 
farm where Andrew B. is now living, there passing 
the remainder of his life. He was among the lead- 
ing pioneers of his time, respected by all who knew 
him. His death occurred February 17, 1843, aged 
eighty three, and on June 30, 1855, in the eighty- 
third year of her age, his wife was laid by his side 
in the Robinson Church cemetery, they having been 
consistent members of that church, in which he 
was also a ruling elder. The children of his 
family were Richard, John (who followed the Ohio 
river, and passed his later years in the South), 
Margaret, Jane (who was first married to Thomas 
Gormley, then to Jacob George), Susan (wife of 
Robert McClarren, of Finley township, Allegheny 
county), and Mary (who was never married). 

Richard Donaldsou was born in 1801, in Hanover 
township, where his life was passed. In 1842 he 
married Mary A. Bigger, who was born in 1822. 
She is a daughter of Andrew Bigger, an early 
settler in Robinson township. To the union of 
Richard and Mary Donaldson the following chil- 
dren were born: Sarah (deceased wife of J. S. 
Culley), born March 31, 1843; William, born May 
8, 1845; Mary E. (Mrs. J. 1). Sett, of Hanover 
township), born March 19. 1848, and Andrew B., 
born October 1, 1851. The parents always lived 



on the home farm, where his life was devoted to 
agriculture and stock raising. In politics he was 
a VVhig and then a Republican. They were both 
members of the U. P. Church of Robinson, to 
which he was a liberal contributor. Richard Don- 
aldson died November 4, 1867, having been pre- 
ceded by his wife, who died March 11, 1859, aged 
thirty-seven years. Their remains were interred 
in the Robinson cemetery. 

Andrew B. Donaldson, whose name opens this 
sketch, was born on the old home farm which has 
been in the possession of their family for nearly 
100 years. After the death of his parents he as- 
sumed charge of the old place where he still re- 
sides, and upon which he has erected a new res- 
idence and barn, and made other improvements. 
Mr. Donaldson has been a prosperous agricultur- 
ist, but for several years has rented his place. 
Politically he has always been a Republican, tak- 
ing an interest in the success of his party. In 
religion he is a member of Robinson U. P. Church. 
He has never married. 




OBERT COULTER, one of the representa- 
tive farmers of Carroll township, is a son 
of James Coulter, who was born in Ireland. 
When but six years of age, James came 
with his parents to America, and they tirst 
located in eastern Pennsylvania, and then came to 
Williamsport (now Monongahela). When a young 
man he married Miss Blakney, who lived but a 
short time, and his second choice was Nancy 
Nichols, who resided near Pittsburgh, Penn. She 
bore him children as follows: Rachel B. (deceased), 
William (now living in Monongahela), James 
(deceased), and Robert. The father was a Whig 
and Republican in politics, and in religious faith a 
member of the Presbyterian Church. He passed 
the remainder of his life in Monongahela, and 
was injured while hauling a load of fodder, having 
been thrown from a wagon, and breaking his leg 
above the ankle. He died in 1823, from the effects 
of the injury, at the age of sixty-nine years, fol- 
lowed by his wife in 1843. 

Robert Coulter was born February 18, 1822, in 
Monongahela, Penn., and there learned the car- 
penter's trade. He was a poor boy, but by con- 
stant industry succeeded in accumulating properly 
in a few years. He followed his trade for eleven 
years, and during that time was married, in June, 
1N42, to Miss Eliza Keeuan. who was a daughterof 
Samuel Keenan. and granddaughter of James Kee- 
nan. Mrs. Coulter died leaving the following chil- 
dren, none of whom are living: James, Samuel K.. 
Raphael, Robert, and William K. Robert Coulter 
married Miss Mary Jane McCain, of Mononga- 
hela, January 4, 1855, and to them twelve chil- 
dren were born. Those yet living are named as 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



877 



follows: Edward R., Joseph H. , Charles H., 
Rowland C. . Eliza May, and Dora F. , all of whom 
are residing with their parents. 

Alter making several very profitable invest- 
ments in coal land, Robert Coulter bought 202 
acres of fine land in Carroll township, where he is 
now living. Many improvements have been made 
upon this farm since the present owner purchased 
it, and his eminent success is due to no other 
human aid than his own. He suffered a terrible 
misfortune in the loss of one limb and injury to 
the other. His right leg was amputated ju3t 
below the knee to prevent mortification, and the 
left leg was broken. It is now as useful as before 
the accident, while an artificial limb takes the 
place of that which was amputated. He was 
formerly a Whig, and has been a Republican since 
the organization of that party. In religious faith 
he is a member of the M. E. Church. 



f'OHN H. STAIB. This gentleman, a prosper- 
ous grocer of Monongahela, comes of Ger- 
t( ' man parentage. His grandfather, J. Michael 
^^ Staib, was born, reared, and married in Ger- 
many, where his three children were born as 
follows: Lewis, John and Fredericka. In 1847 
the family emigrated to America, locating on a 
farm in Butler county, Penn., where the father 
continued to follow agricultural pursuits until his 
death. In political opinion he was a Democrat, 
and in religious faith a member of the Lutheran 
Church. 

Lewis Staib was born in Germany, and there re- 
ceived a thorough education. He remained at home 
some years after his arrival in this country, and 
then entered the employ of Peter Graff, who was 
the proprietor of an extensive iron establishment. 
Lewis Staib remained in this business about ten 
years; then came to Mingo, Penn., and conducted 
a general store in company with William A. Rodg- 
ers. In 1864 he embarked in the coal producing 
business, and managed the Victory Coal Works 
until 1S73, being also interested in the Harlem 
Works. He then opened the Rea Coal Works in 
Westmoreland county, and finally established the 
works at Catsburg, which he conducted until 1889, 
in which year he retired from active life. He was 
an ardent member of the Republican party, and in 
religion was associated with the Lutheran Church. 
When a young man Lewis Staib married Martha 
Jane, daughter of David Aultman, a resident of 
Armstrong county, Penn., and to them children 
were born as follows: Mary, "wife of Adam Kiel; 
Josephine; Mattie, married to M. S. Warne; John 
H. ; Alberta, wife of F. M. Warne; Anna B., mar- 
ried to R. M. Gee; Alice; Lewis, and Fred W. 

John H. Staib was born October 3, 1862, in 
Carroll township, this county, receiving a common- 
school education. Some time after leaving school 



he clerked for John Van Voorhis; then worked for 
T. J. Wood, and on October 27, 1891, opened his 
present business in Monongahela. On June 28, 
1885, he married Anna, a native of that city, and 
a daughter of Adam Aughendobler. 

Adam Aughendobler was born August 14, 1823, 
near Nuremberg, Bavaria. His mother died there 
when he was eleven years of age, leaving but the one 
child. Adam Aughendobler remained at the home 
of his uncle in Bavaria after the death of his par- 
ents, and there learned the weaver's trade, and 
assisted on the farm. In 1852 he sailed for America, 
and after a voyage of seven weeks lauded at Balti- 
more, Md. He then came to Washington, Penn., 
and worked on a farm for Major Millinger and 
James Stockdale. On May 4, 1853, he married 
Lizzie Zeh, who is of German parentage, and 
in 1865 they came to Monongahela, where the 
family have since resided. He is an active mem- 
ber of the Republican party, has served as council- 
man, and for twenty-eight years has been super- 
intendent of the cemetery. He is identified with 
the Lutheran Church, which he has served as elder. 
Mr. and Mrs. Aughendobler are the parents of the 
following children: Maria (Mrs. Levi Friend) and 
Bessie (Mrs. William Woodward) (who are twins), 
Jane (wife of James Dickey), Maggie (Mrs. Hoff- 
man), Anna (Mrs. Staib), George (deceased) and 
John L. 

John H. and Anna (Aughendobler) Staib are the 
parents of two sons, Lewis and Harold. Mr. Staib 
, carries a full line of groceries and produce, and is 
a very successful business man. In politics he is 
a supporter of the Republican party, andiu relig- 
ion a member of the Lutheran Church. 



rii C. McKEAN, one of the leading young 
|/\\ business men of Charleroi, was born in 
fr^\ Robinson township, Allegheny Co., Penn. 
Jl = He received a public school education, then 
v took a course at Duff's Business College, at 

Pittsburgh, Penn. , and after graduating there, de- 
voted his attention chiefly to agriculture and 
horticulture. When the town of Charleroi was 
organized in 1890, he opened a real estate and in- 
surance office, in company with James K. Clarke. 
They conduct an extensive insurance business, and 
also deal largely in real estate, being the sole 
agents for the Charleroi Land Company. Mr. Mc- 
Kean owned about twenty acres of the original 
plat of Charleroi, and erected the first building in 
the town. The village has one of the largest and 
most complete glass factories in the county, be- 
sides other important industries. Mr. McKean is 
a pushing young business man, a thorough " hus- 
tler," allowing no favorable opportunity to pass for 
the advancement of Charleroi. He is a stanch 
advocate of the policy of the Republican party. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



THOMAS ARMITAGE. England has given 
to this country a host of substantial, pro- 
gressive and law-abiding citizens, and among 
the number is the gentleman whose name 
opens this biographical memoir. 
He was born May 8, 1844, to George and Mary 
Armitage, who died in England, his brothers and 
sisters being William (deceased), Joseph (in York- 
shire, England), Sarah (deceased) and Hannah 
(wife of P. C. Reniers, of Pittsburgh). 

In 18(54 Thomas Armitage came to America, 
locating first in Pittsburgh, where he worked at the 
marble cutter's trade for ten years. In 1870 he 
came to Washington, this county, and opened out 
for himself a general marble, stone-cutting and 
mantel business; and notwithstanding that he had to 
compete with old-established firms, he succeeded, 
by close attention to business and upright dealings 
with his patrons, in gaining a well-earned popu- 
larity, and a large patronage. His workmanship 
is of the best, and his works find conspicuous place 
in the most prominent yards in the country within 
a radius of twenty-five miles. His place of busi- 
ness is at 305 South Main street. Mr. Armitage 
married Miss Margaret Shaffer, of Pittsburgh, 
July 7, 1870. Her parents, John and Louisa 
Shaffer, are residents of Ohio. No children have 
been born to this union. 

Ever since coming to Washington Mr. Armitage 
has taken an active interest, in the affairs of the 
borough, and his energy and enterprise have not 
been excelled by any of the older or wealthier men 
residents. He was among the first to assist in the 
development of the oil industry in and around 
Washington, and was interested in the pioneer well 
known as the " Gantz Well,'' situated near the 
Chartiers railroad depot, being one of the direct- 
ors of same. His property on South Main street 
he bought and materially improved, and has done 
much toward beautifying that portion of the bor- 
ough. He was one of the founders, and is at pres- 
ent one of the directors, of the Washington Glass 
Works. It maybe said that no enterprise tending 
to the advancement of the city has been established 
or proposed without his prompt, and willing assist- 
ance. Politically our subject is a Democrat, and 
he is a member of the borough council. Of the 
Second Presbyterian Church, of Washington, lie 
and his wife have been members for sixteen years. 
He is now one of the school directors of the city. 



Bethlehem township, where be died in 1831, fol- 
lowed by his wife in 1838. 

To the union of Nathan and Sarah (Linton) 
Cleaver one daughter was born, Martha, wife of 
William H. Mitchell. Mr. Cleaver was a promi- 
nent citizen and prosperous farmer. He voted 
with the Republican party, and served one term 
as county commissioner. He died June Tl. 1887, 
at his home in Monongahela, to which city he 
removed from his farm after his second marriage, in 
1 888, with Mrs. E. C. Leonard. He was laid to rest 
in the old Friends' burying ground at Westland 
beside his first wife, who died in 1873. and near 
the site of the Friends' meeting-house where they 
were publicly united in marriage under the Friends' 
ceremonial, fifty-five years before. Both died in 
the Quaker faith. 



IV If ATHAN CLEAVER, born in York county, 
1^1 Penn., in 1801, was married, March 1, 1832, 
^1 to Sarah Linton, a daughter of Mahlon 
II -" Linton, who was born east of the mount- 
v ains, in 1776. He married Ann Hilles in 

1803, and after their marriage they came to Wash- 
ington county, Penn., locating on a farm in East 



If AMES A. STEPHENSON traces his ancestry 

to an old and prosperous family of Berkeley 

fr | county, Va. (now W. Va. ), where Richard 

^^ Stephenson, the first of his ancestry of whom 

we have any authentic record, was born and 

reared. 

Richard Stephenson married Mrs. Onora Craw- 
ford. She was the widow of Hugh Crawford (an 
old Indian trader), and bore him two sons, William 
and Valentine. William Crawford was colonel of 
the Fifth Virginia Regulars, having been commis- 
sioned in 1781. The circumstances of his death 
(which event occurred June 11, 1782, at Sandusky, 
Ohio), are recorded in nearly every U. S. history. 
He was burned at the stake by Indians who had 
captured him, for the evident purpose of wreaking 
vengeance on their victim, in return for the his- 
toric massacre at Gnadenhutten, Tuscarawas Co., 
Ohio, many Indians being there slaughtered by 
the whites. At the time of his capture Col. Craw- 
ford was conducting a campaign against the Wyan- 
dot ts, and Senecas and other tribes who were 
associated with the British and Moravians. To 
the union of Richard and Onora (Crawford) Ste- 
phenson children were born as follows: John, 
Hugh, Richard, James, Marcus and one daughter. 
Mrs. Stephenson possessed great physical strength, 
and was a kind and affectionate mother. She died 
in 1776. Gen. George Washington was a fre- 
(juent visitor in this home, often taking part in 
athletic contests with the sons. The early friend 
ship ripened with the passing years, and when 
General Washington rose to prominence in mili- 
tary life, James Stephenson was yet his dearest 
friend and constant, companion. 

James Stephenson, son of Richard, was born in 
Berkeley county (W. Va.), where he married 
Rachel McKee^ers. Their children were Moses, 
William, Mary, Theodosia, James and Sarah. In 
17S1 Mr. Stephenson concluded to take advantage 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



879 



of the cheap lands then open in western Pennsyl- 
vania. He was then in the prime of life, and a 
splendid specimen of physical manhood. In com- 
pany with a negro slave, named Fortune, he started 
on foot on a journey of exploration, leaving his 
family at home, not wishing them to undergo the 
perils of such a hazardous expedition. The two 
men arrived safely in Washington county, Penn., 
and Mr. Stephenson took up a '' tomahawk claim ' ' 
of 500 acres of choice laud, four miles southeast of 
Burgettstowu. A humble cabin was soon erected, 
some rude improvements made, and a crop of corn 
planted. The negro previously mentioned was 
then left to manage the place. He was originally 
the property of George Washington, from whom 
James Stephenson purchased him. The latter 
then returned to West Virginia, the negro subsist 
ing on game and roots during his absence. The 
entire family were soon located in their pioneer 
home, which was afterward supplanted by a larger 
log cabin. The wife and mother died December 
14, 1789, and for his second wife Mr. Stephenson 
was married to Martha Barr, the following children 
being born to their union: Benjamin, Richard, 
Joseph, Achsah and John. The land increased in 
value as civilization progressed, and at the time of 
his death Mr. Stephenson was a wealthy man. He 
died in 1813, being followed by his wife in 1816. 
The comforts and luxuries of our modern days are 
largely due to the patient effort and brave courage 
of these early pioneers. 

James Stephenson, a son of James and Rachel 
Stephenson, was born August 5, 1784, passing his 
boyhood among the exciting and dangerous scenes 
of frontier life. He received a very limited edu- 
cation in the subscription schools, much of his 
time being employed in hunting, and the old 
"flint lock" which he used was instrumental in 
bringing down a large amount of game. He was 
a volunteer in the war of 1812, enlisting at Hick- 
ory, Penn., and serving until the close of the war. 
In 1827 he was united in marriage with Emeline 
Honeywell. She was born in 1808 in New York 
State, and at the age of fourteen years came to 
Washington county, Penn., with her parents, Israel 
and Judith (Spicer) Honeywell. James and Em- 
eline Stephenson were the parents of Rachel (de- 
ceased wife of Christopher Matchett, of Robinson 
township), Sylvester (deceased when four years of 
age), Sylvester (deceased in infancy), Elmira (liv- 
ing on the home place), James A. (subject of this 
sketch) and Amanda (wife of J. J. Campbell, liv- 
ing in Hardin county, Ky.). Mr. and Mrs. Ste- 
phenson resided on the home farm some time after 
their marriage, then moved to the place now occu- 
pied by James A., where the father followed farm- 
ing and stock raising with marked success. He 
died June 7, 1852, his wife passing away May 20, 



1883, and was buried by the side of her husband in 
Prospect cemetery. 

James A. Stephenson was born June 22, 1837, 
on the home farm in Smith township, which he 
now owns and occupies. He received a meager 
common-school education, afterward learning the 
carpenter's trade, which he followed some time, 
but has devoted the greater part of his life to agri- 
cultural pursuits with the exception of seven years 
passed at Candor, this county. He was formerly 
a well-known hunter, and to-day keeps, as a relic of 
the exciting adventures of boyhood, a rifle-ball, with 
which, when but ten years of age, he killed his 
first fox. He also retains in his possession the old 
hoe which was used by the negro slave Fortune 
over a hundred years ago, when working for James 
Stephenson, the grandfather. Mr. Stephenson 
takes great delight in the preservation of old relics 
and curiosities, being assisted in the gratification 
of this taste by many contributions from friends. 
Although owning and residing upon a valuable 
farm, he has never taken an active part in the ag- 
ricultural work, which is done by his tenants or 
croppers or crofters. He invented a superior bee- 
hive, and can duplicate almost any article which he 
once examines. In politics his sympathy and in- 
fluence are given to the Democratic party, al- 
though he is not a strict partisan. 



d(OHN WHERRY, JR., is one of the most 
I widely-known and popular agriculturists of 
) West Bethlehem township. His grandfather, 
John Wherry, was born in Somerset township, 
where his father had secured a patent for 
nearly 500 acres of land, in what was known as 
the "tomahawk improvement.'' Here his boy- 
hood was spent, and his education, which was 
very good for the time, was received in the old 
subscription school, a considerable distance from 
his home. After a long and successful career, he 
died about the beginning of the present century. 
John W. Wherry, the father of our subject, was 
born in Somerset township. His education was 
like that of his father, but the schools were then 
public or "common." He married Catherine, a 
daughter of George Weaver, of West Pike Run 
township, after which they remained upon the 
farm about twelve years, then removed to West 
Bethlehem township. To them were born the fol- 
lowing named children: Amy, John, Jr., William, 
Elizabeth, Eleanor, George W., Eli, Mary and 
James; all of whom are living in Washington 
county, excepting Elizabeth, who died in 1887. 

The subject of this sketch was born October 29, 
1843, in Somerset township, and his boyhood was 
principally employed in assisting his father in the 
care of the farm. After the family removed to 



SMI 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



West Bethlehem township, he attended the school 
known as " Wherry's School-house," situated on 
his father's farm. In 1867 he married Elizabeth 
Bigler, daughter of Henry Bigler, of West Bethle- 
hem township, after which he moved to the farm 
he now owns, and where the following children 
have been born to them: Elizabeth, Mary, Will- 
iam, Ida and Charles, all of whom, with the ex- 
ception of Elizabeth, who died in 1877, are living 
at home with their parents. In 1890 Mr. Wherry 
built one of the finest houses in this section. When 
he took possession there was scarcely a building 
or fence upon the place, whereas it is now one of the 
best improved farms in West Bethlehem township. 
Its strong and neat board fences and elegant 
buildings bestow upon it an air of thrift and pros- 
perity. Mr. Wherry is a Republican, and although 
he is no office seeker has been elected to many 
positions of trust. He was a soldier in Company 
G, One Hundred and Tenth P. V. I. , but escaped 
in battle, only to meet with injury thirty years 
later. In November, 1892, while hauling logs, he 
got his arm broken, which left it crooked and help- 
less for a time. He is a member of the Ten Mile 
Baptist Church (of which he is deacon), as are also 
his wife and children. Mrs. Wherry is a lady 
commanding the esteem and regard of all who 
know her. The entire family are intelligent and 
industrous citizens. 



CORNELIUS WEYGANDT was born in Ger- 
many, whence so many of our strong intel- 
lectual people trace their ancestry. Phys- 
ical and mental development go hand in 
hand in the country of the Rhine, making some of 
the grandest specimens of symmetrical humanity 
fcbe world has ever seen. In early manhood Cor- 
nelius Weygandt left his native land and came to 
America, locating in the then wilderness of Penn- 
sylvania. Here was the pioneer cabin erected, 
the hardships of frontier life endured, and finally 
a little town arose destined to become a mighty city. 
Amid these early scenes Cornelius Weygandt 
passed the remainder of his life, becoming identi- 
fied with the history of the country. He lived to 
an advanced age, and reared a large family of 
children, among whom was a son who bore his 
father's name. 

Cornelius Weygandt {'2) was born in Northamp- 
ton county, Penn., and received a very limited 
education. During the earlier part of his life he 
learned and followed the cooper trade, afterward 
purchasing 300 acres of land in Carroll township, 
Washington Co., Penn. One hundred years ago 
he erected buildings on that part of the land which 
is now owned by the subject of this sketch, and 
there passed the remainder of his life. He married 
Barbara Stacker, who bore him many children, 'and 



both parents died on the old home place many 
years ago. 

Cornelius Weygandt (3) was born on the home- 
stead in Carroll township, and received a subscrip- 
tion school education. He always followed agri- 
cultural pursuits on the old home place, and in 
early life was married to Rosanua Bonniwitz, a na- 
tive of Fayette county, Penn. They had seven 
children, of whom but three are living. In poli- 
tics he voted with the Democratic party, and served 
as school director and auditor of the township. In 
religion he was a member of the Lutheran Church. 
He died in 1858, being followed by his wife five 
years later. 

Cornelius Weygandt (4), the subject proper of 
this sketch, was born May 5, 1832, in the house 
where he is yet living on the ancestral acres in 
Carroll township. He attended the log cabin 
school of the neighborhood, and has passed his life 
on the old place, now owning 115 acres of land. 
In political opinion he is a Democrat, and in relig- 
ious faith a member of the Lutheran Church. He 
has never married, and though somewhat enfeebled 
by hard work, is yet a vigorous man for his age. 
His nephew Jesse has charge of the place. 



KP\\ OBERT KNOX, who is prominently identi- 
L/' tied with the insurance business in the bor- 

r\\ ou g u °f Washington, is a native of the 
\\ -^ county, having been born in Buffalo town- 
V ship, February 19, 1858. 

John Knox, his grandfather, came from Ireland 
to this county about the year 1808, bringing with 
him his young wife, and settled on a farm in Buf- 
falo township, where they both died. Their eldest 
child was born on the Atlantic ocean while they 
were on their way to America, and is now living in 
Texas, at the age of nearly ninety years. The 
grandmother died some years before the grand- 
father, who passed away when eighty-four years 
old. They were the parents of eight children, live 
of whom are living, viz.: William, in Buffalo town- 
ship; John, in Claysville; Margaret, wife of George 
Smith, in Buffalo township; Thomas, in Kansas; 
and Jenny, relict of Dr. Milliken. 

Robert Knox, Sr., was born in Buffalo township, 
and for many years was a tailor in Taylorstown. 
11'- purchased a farm in the township, which lie 
curried on in connection with his trade. In L845 
he married Anne, daughter of James Irwin, of 
Canton township, and three children came to bless 
their home, viz.: John, now in Taylorstown; J. 
Irwin, living on the old farm; and Robert, our 
subject. The father was called to his long home 
in July, 1SS9, when seventy years of age. He 
was a stanch Democrat. In religion he was a 
member of the U. P. Church of North Buffalo. 

Robert Knox, whose name opens this sketch, 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



881 



received his education at the common schools of his 
native township, and when a young man taught 
school during the winter mouths while he worked 
on the farm in summer time. For ten years he 
taught in Chartiers, Canton and Buffalo townships 
and four terms in Taylorstown. In April, L886, 
he opened out a general store, in partnership with 
his brother John, at Taylorstown, but sold out in 
March, 1S91. In November, 1890, he came to 
Washington borough, where he has since been 
successfully engaged in the insurance business. 
He and his brother, J. Irwin, still retain control of 
the old farm property in Buffalo township, on 
which are located twenty four oil wells. He mar- 
ried, January 17, 1889, Miss Ella B. , daughter of 
James Wilson, of Taylorstown, and two children, 
named Robert James and Russel VY.. have come to 
brighten their home. Politically, Mr. Knox is a 
Democrat, and has served as assessor of Buffalo 
township, also as clerk of elections several times. 
In his religious connections he is a member of the 
First United Presbyterian Church of Washington. 



J 



OHN SLATER, manufacturer and wholesale 
dealer iu cigars, is a prosperous and promi- 
nent citizen of Washington. He is a native 
of the borough, born June 11, 1858, a son of 
Theodore Slater, who was born January 22, 1821, 
in the city of Treves (Trier), Rhenish Prussia, and 
who, in the year 1846, came, in company with his 
brother. Matthias, to America, located at Pitts- 
burgh, Penn., and thence, some time later, pro- 
ceeded to Louisville, Ky. On July 19, 1847, the 
war with Mexico being in progress, he enlisted, 
although not yet an American citizen, in Company 
K (Capt. Gardner), First U. S. Infantry, and 
served under Gen. Wintield Scott during the re- 
mainder of the campaign, including the capture of 
the City of Mexico. On July 23, 1848, he was 
honorably discharged, and returned to Pittsburgh, 
whence, after a short time, he moved to Greene 
county, and embarked, iu partnership with two of 
his brothers-in law, in the manufacture of shoes, 
carrying on also a grocery and provision store. 

Theodore Slater revisited his old home by the 
Rhine in 1851, where he married Miss Apolonia, 
daughter of Matthias Weis. Her father died in 
Germany in 1884, at the age of eighty- four years. 
Iu May, 1851, Mr. Slater returned with his bride, 
and finally settled in Washington, this county, 
where they made their first home on the corner of 
Main and Maiden streets, now the site of Acheson's 
grocery store. He commenced in the boot and 
shoe business on his own account. Later they 
lived where now stands G. W. Roberts' drug store. 
In 1866 they were burned out, losing everything, 
including their furniture and clothing. In the 
following year they moved to Main street, where 



Mr. Slater established a trade in tobacco and the 
manufacture of cigars, etc., and here passed the 
remainder of his days, dying May 14, 1879, at the 
age of fifty-eight years. He was an ardent Demo- 
crat, but not ambitious for office, though he was 
nominated by his party for commissioner, and also 
assistant burgess, to which latter position he was 
duly elected. He was a member of the Catholic 
Church, and a strong supporter of educational 
measures. His widow is still living at the old 
home in Washington, the mother of four children: 
John, who died in childhood; Mary L. , known as 
Sister Mary Xavier, of the Order of The Visitation 
in the convent at Mt. Chantel. near Wheeling, W. 
Va. , of which she has been a member for some 
fourteen years; John, of whom special mention will 
be presently made; and Annie, who died at the 
age of nineteen years. Annie was an extensive 
reader, and possessed a fine intellect. Her power 
of memorizing was almost phenomenal. When in 
her eighteenth year, she participated in a prize 
literary contest in the East, the subject of her 
essay being: " What Catholics have done for 
America." She had the honor of carrying off the 
second prize, notwithstanding the fact that she had 
to contend against many older competitors; truly 
an honor of which the family feel justly proud. 

John Slater received his rudimentary education 
at the common schools of Washington borough, 
which was supplemented by a t wo-j ear's course at 
St. Vincent College, Latrobe, Westmoreland county. 
Returning to his home, he worked at his trade of 
cigar making uuder his father, at whose death he 
succeeded to the business, and has since continued 
to carry it on. The industry includes the general 
manufacture of several brands of cigars, and job- 
bing in all kinds of plug and smoking tobacco. 
Under Mr. Slater's management the business has 
become the most extensive of the kind in the 
county. The factory, which is in size 100x22 feet, 
two and three stories iu height, gives employment 
to a large number of hands. On August 25, 1886, 
Mr. Slater was married to Regina, daughter of 
Michael Stillwagen, of Claysville. This marriage 
was blessed by three children, viz. : John Joseph, 
Charles Francis and Edward Theodore. In politics 
Mr. Slater is an ardent Democrat, and in religion 
a consistent Catholic. 



JLLIAM McCREREY is one of the most 
successful business men, and deservedly 
popular citizens of Buffalo township. He 
was born June 30, 1838, in Marshall 
W. Va., and passed his boyhood in the 
usual uneventful manner of farmer boys. He 
afterward worked at the carpenter's trade. On De- 
cember 27, 1864, he was united in marriage with 
Kate, daughter of William Litle, of Buffalo town- 




882 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



ship, and the following children were born to them: 
Virginia Lee, Alexander H., William Litle, Emily, 
Mary Ann and Bessie Bell, all of whom are living 
at home. Mr. McCrerey began life with practi- 
cally nothing, his success being due solely to his 
own energy and management. When his father 
died, he inherited a portion of the estate, but in- 
stead of using it himself, allowed a brother, Thomas 
(who had remained on the old homestead, and 
cared for the father in his declining years), to use 
and occupy the entire portion until sufficiently 
remunerated for his years of self-denial. When 
Mr. Litle (Ids father in-law) died, William McCre- 
rey bought of the heirs the entire farm of 190 
acres, which is now his home. It is a pleasant 
place, well-improved, and having an air of enter- 
prise, thrift and comfort surrounding it. In poli- 
tics he is a Democrat, and has served five consecu- 
tive terms as school director. In addition to gen- 
eral farming, Mr. McCrerey is an extensive wool- 
grower, and breeder of Black-Top sheep, now own- 
ing nearly two hundred and fifty of that breed. 
He commands the respect and friendship of a large 
circle of acquaintances. His wife is a devoted 
member of the Methodist Church, and is widely 
known for her good deeds. 



THOMAS B. CRAIG was born in Buffalo 
township, this county, June 6, 1840. He 
came of a talented Scotch-Irish family, one of 
the most influential and successful in the 
county — a parentage that exercised no lit- 
tle influence in laying the foundation of modern 
government and religion. This has made Wash- 
ington county widely known, in State and Nation; 
has given her sons no little pride in saying "I had 
from Washington county." His parents were 
Hugh and Hannah (Henderson) Craig. His father, 
though a farmer, was needed in official position, 
and served his township and county, and finally 
the State Legislature, to the entire satisfaction of 
his constituents. 

Thomas B. Craig is the youngest of eight chil- 
dren, among whom were Rev. Dr. Hugh K. Craig, 
who ranked high in the pulpit, and was president 
for a time of Monongahela College. Hon. John 
H. Craig, another brother, distinguished himself 
for his scholarly attainments at college, and is 
widely known in Iowa as a platform orator. Hon. 
A. K. Craig, who served his party in Congress, and 
a sketch of whose life is found in this volume, was 
also a brother. Thomas B. Craig was raised on 
the old Craig farm near Claysville, where he im- 
bibed those principles that gave to bis character 
tiic> elements necessary for complete success. He 
always held his own with the brightest pupils at 
Science Hill School, among whom was the Hon. 



S. J. McCarrel, now a member of the State Senate 
of Pennsylvania. 

Scarcely having attained his majority, the Civil 
war broke out, and fired with zeal for the cause of 
right, as it appeared to him, enlisted in August, 
1862, in Company B, "Ringgold Cavalry'' Bat- 
talion, serving in it for some two years, at which 
time the battalion was reorganized into a regi- 
ment, known as the Twenty-second P. V. C. He 
served in Company C, of this regiment, until the 
close of the war. He was a member of the corps 
under General Sheridan in his " famous raid"' in the 
Shenandoah Valley, and took part in the engage- 
ments, the most important of which were the bat 
ties of Winchester (the scene of "Sheridan's 
Ride," immortalized by Buchanan), Fisher's Hill 
and Cedar Creek. After the war Mr. Craig en- 
tered into partnership with L. C. Truesdell in 
general mercantile business at Claysville, which 
continued for fouryears. He then embarked alone, 
conducting a general store in which he has since 
been very successful, and for many years has been 
recognized by the public as the leading merchant 
of Claysville. In 1871 Mr. Craig married Rachel, 
daughter of James Noble, of Buffalo township, one 
of the most successful farmers of the county. To 
them were born four children, James, who is as- 
sisting his father in the mercantile business; 
Homer, a student in Washington and Jefferson 
College, McWilliams and Clarence, who are at- 
tending the public schools at Claysville. 

Mr. Craig has always been a strong Democrat, 
and has taken an active interest in politics; and the 
Democratic party owes a great deal to his zeal and 
fidelity for its success, and especially for its late 
success, in having a Democratic representation in 
the Twenty-fourth Congressional District of Penn- 
sylvania, of which this county is a part. A late 
writer in speaking of Mr. Craig says: " Among the 
well-known and enterprising business men of Clays- 
ville, none occupy a more prominent position, or 
are more worthy of confidence and respect, than 
the subject of this sketch. " Mr. Craig has been and 
is at present a member of the City Council, and 
has been frequently a member of the school board, 
besides holding other offices of trust. He and his 
family are members of the Presbyterian Church, 
the church of his boyhood, to which he has given 
his liberal support and work. 



JOSEPH REED. In the front ranks of pros- 
perous agriculturists and prominent citizens 
of Cecil township, we find the name of this 
gentlemau. His great-great grandparents 
were of Scotch-Irish parentage. His great- 
grandfather, David Reed, was born on the ocean 
when his parents and two brothers were coming to 
America in the early part of the eighteenth century, 





G&^L^ 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



885 



or about 1700 to 1715. One brother settled in 
Kentucky and- one in Carolina. The father, 
mother and David settled in Lancaster county, 
Penn. David was married to Miss Caldwell, 
daughter of Capt. Caldwell, who commanded a 
company called "The Blue Hen's Chickens " dur- 
ing the Revolutionary war. Capt. Caldwell lived 
on an island in the Susquehanna river. The chil- 
dren of this union were, in the order of age: Mol- 
lie, married to Peter Clark; Nancy, married to 
James Clark (lived near Harrisburg, Penn. Peter 
and James Clark were not related); Jane, married 
to Matthew Atcheson, of Hickory, Penn. ; Rebecca, 
married to Humphrey Atcheson, brother of Mat- 
thew; Lydia, married to Samuel McBride, of Ma- 
honing county, Ohio; John, married to Anna 
Atcheson, sister of Matthew and Humphrey, and 
David, married to Margaret May. 

(The grandparents of the subject of this sketch). 
Col. Crogau offered John and David very flattering 
inducements to come from Lancaster county and 
settle in what is now Mt. Pleasant township, Wash- 
ington Co., Penn., which were accepted by the two 
young men, who came here in 1777, and settled on 
what afterward proved to be "The Washington 
Land," in Mt. Pleasant township. In the autumn 
of 1777 David returned to Lancaster county, and 
married Miss Margaret May, daughter of Alex 
May, in the spring of 1778. They soon came to 
their new farm, where they lived for several years. 
On September 20, 1784, Gen. George Washington, 
then traveling through this section, came and 
dined with Mr. David Reed. During the day Gen. 
Washington claimed that he owned the title to the 
land on which Mr. Reed lived, which he afterward 
proved, and that Col. Crogan did not have a title 
to the property, and had unlawfully placed the 
Messrs. Reed and others thereon. Gen. Washing 
ton would not allow the settlers any rights nor any 
compensation for the improvements. Finally he 
made the following offer, a transcript of which is 
taken from the journal of Gen. Washington, in 
Washington, D. C. : 

September 20, 1784, dined at David Reed's, after which 
Mr. Jamea Scott and Squire Reed i ><■•_:.- i i i in enquire 
whether 1 would pari with the Land, and upon what terms; 
adding that, though tin > did not conceive they could lie 
dispossessed, yet, to avoid contention, they would buy if 
my terms were moderate. I told them 1 had no inclination 
to sell; however, alter hearing a great deal of their hard- 
ships, their religious principles which had brought them 
together as a society of Ceceders, and unwillingness to 
separate or remove, 1 told them I would make them a 
last offer, and this was— The whole trad at 25 -.hillings 
"per acre. The money to be paid in three annual pay- 
ments with interest— or to become tenants upon leases of 
099 years, at the annual rental of 10 pounds per (' per an- 
num, etc. 

The above goes on to say that the settlers decided 
to stand suit, and abide by the issue of the law. 
In the December term of court, 1784, ejectment 



suits were entered, and as the rights of Gen. Wash- 
ington by the Virginia patents were well authenti- 
cated, the settlers did not make a claim of priority 
of title. The suit was decided against the settlers, 
who, of course, had to move elsewhere or become 
tenants of the land they had previously thought 
was their own. John Reed purchased another 
farm in Cecil township, now owned by Mrs. John 
Cubbage. He died there April 14, 1817, aged sev- 
enty-three years. David Reed, about the year 
1 788, also purchased 300 acres of land in Cecil town- 
ship from Thomas Waller, which had been taken 
up by him previous to 1780, for which he gave one 
horse, one pair blankets and 13 pounds sterling. 
A warrant of acceptance was issued to David Reed 
by the board of Property, March 2, 1790, and 
patent granted April 21, 1813. He moved to this 
farm after the contest for the Washington lands 
was decided against him, and lived there until he 
died, September 30, 1824, aged seventy-seven 
years, leaving his wife, who died November 19, 
L840, aged eighty-two years. David in his young- 
er days underwent many hardships in clearing his 
property, and from the treachery of the Indians. 
He was a noted Indian fighter, and was at the«In- 
dian massacre at Yellow creek, Ohio. But bright- 
er years were ahead of him, for financial prosperity 
finally crowned his efforts. He wasone of the elders 
in Chartiers Associate Reformed (now U. P.) Church 
at Canonsburg, Penn. Thev had five sons and one 
daughter. The older son, Alexander, was married 
to Martha Anderson; the second son, David, mar- 
ried Euphemia Paxton; Mary ("Polly'') became 
the wife of George Murray ; John, the third son, 
married Jane May, and lived in Mt. Pleasant town- 
ship; James, born April 10, 1793, married Jane 
Ann Allison (He was for many years a jeweler of 
Washington, Penn., but afterward moved to Pitts- 
burgh, and founded the present jewelry house of 
J. R. Reed & Co. He died June 5, 1878); Joseph, 
the youngest son, was born April 30, 1796, and al- 
ways lived on the homestead of his father. 

On October 18, 1821, Joseph Reed (just men- 
tioned) was married to Elizabeth Alexander, who 
died May 1, 1822, without issue. For his second 
wife Mr. Reed married Anna, daughter of Rev. 
Daniel McLean, of Jamestown, Penn. Of this union 
there were four children: (1) Margaret, born Feb- 
ruary 20, 1825, died August 29, 1882, was married 
to Robert Henderson (They had four children: 
Anna, deceased; Mary Martha, who is the wife of 
William Grounds; Joseph Reed Henderson, who 
married Elizabeth Martin, and Mina, who became 
the wife of Linus Welsh). (2) Mary, born Novem- 
ber 13, 1826, died August 20, 1881, was the 
wife of John Nesbit, of Chartiers township. (3) 
David, born January 1, 1829, was twice married; 
his first wife was Vashti Elder (deceased), of West 
Virginia; to his second wife, Amelia Forbes, he 



886 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



had two children: Ernest and Ellis Anderson; 
David was a leading physician of Cedar Rapids, 
Iowa, and died there March 21, 1869. (4) Jane 
Ann, born December 28, 1830, is the wife of John 
B. May, of Venice, Penn. ; their two children died 
in infancy. Anna, the mother of these children, 
having died August 3, 1831, Mr. Reed was after- 
ward married to Martha Anderson, who was born 
October 2, 1816, a' daughter of Matthew Anderson, 
of Chartiers township; she died October 2, 1882, 
about three years before Mr. Reed's decease. 
Eight children were born to them, as follows: 
(1) Elizabeth, born August 1, 1833, is the wife of 
David White, of Canonsburg, Penn. ; they had two 
children: Joseph Reed, and Elva (deceased). (2) 
John, born November 10, 1835; he was a minister 
in the U. P. Church, and died in Indiana, Septem- 
ber 21, 1863. (3) Matthew Anderson, born Janu- 
ary 26, 1838, resides in Allegheny, Penn. ; he was 
married in 1862 to Anna Mary, daughter of Henry 
Donnell, of Cecil township; their three children 
are Harry French, Clara Mary and Anna Martha. 
(4) Thomas Alexander, born March 20, 1840, mar- 
ried Martha Gladden; they now live in Pasadena, 
Cah (5) Joseph, born April 30, 1843, married 
Ella C. Cubbage, daughter of John and Mary 
( Hutchison) Cubbage, who were natives of Alle- 
gheny county, Penn., and Guernsey county, Ohio, 
respectively; three children brighten this home, 
Lettie Myrtle, Joseph Houston and Ethel. (6) 
George Murray, boruUuly 22, 1848, is a minister 
in the TJ. P. Church of Newville, Cumberland Co., 
Penn.; he married Lizzie Kinner, of New Wilming- 
ton, Penn., and four children have blessed their 
union; George Kinner, Gertrude, Chloe and Paul 
Mehard. (7) Julia A., born June 9, 1850, wife of 
Alouzo Hemphill, of Houstonville, Penn. ; they 
have two children: Helen and John. (8) Campbell 
Ledlie, born June 29, 1853, was married to Annie 
D. Cowden, deceased; they had two daughters, 
Margaret Alberta and Martha Maud, also oue son, 
Ralph Rockwood, deceased. Mr. Reed afterward 
married Jennie M. Patterson. They have one 
daughter, Katharine Pauline. He resides in Cecil 
township. 

Joseph Reed, the father of the above, was a 
gentleman of the old school. His tine personal 
appearance alone commanded respect everywhere. 
For honesty of principle, goodness and charity, Mr. 
Reed had no superiors, and his home was always 
characterized by generous hospitality. He always 
lived on the homestead of his father. He was for 
many years justice of the peace; and it can be said 
of him that during all these years he had only two 
hearings before him, as he always used his influence 
to get an amicable settlement between the parties, 
rather than have a trial. Many other important 
positions of local trust were held by him. In his 
younger days he was a noted violinist, which ait he 



kept in practice until a short time before his 
death. Those who knew him placed a high esti- 
mate upon his judgment, and esteemed him for his 
uprightness, and the impress of his character was 
left upon all who met him. He was ordained an 
elder in Chartiers U. P. Church, February 1 5, 
1854, but a few years later severed his connections 
with this church, and afterward attended the U. 
P. Church at Venice, which was much nearer his 
home. He retired from active business many years 
before his death. His memory never became im- 
paired, and his faculties for conversing even during 
the latter years of his life were remarkably clear. 
He died October 4, 1885, in his ninetieth year. 

Joseph Reed, the subject proper of this sketch, 
was born April 30, 1843, on the farm in Cecil 
township where he is still living. His education 
was received in the public schools of the neighbor- 
hood, and July 11, 1883, he was united in mar- 
riage with Ella C. Cubbage. Since their marriage 
our subject and wife have resided on the old home- 
stead, which contains 206 acres of well -cultivated 
land. Three children have blessed this home. 
Mr. Reed makes a specialty of raising a high grade 
of sheep. In politics he votes the Republican 
ticket, and he is serving his second term as justice 
of the peace. 



J JOHN CUBBAGE was a native of Allegheny 
I county, Penn., born January 12, 1812, in 
I what is now the town of Mansfield. George 
Cubbage, his father, who was a native of Ire- 
land, and a butcher by trade, came to America at 
an early day, settling in Allegheny county, Penn., 
on a farm on which the present town of Mansfield 
now stands. He married Nancy Caldwell, who 
bore him the following children: Hannah (Mrs. 
Henry Cowan), John, Abbie (Mrs. Hugh Graham), 
Martha, Sarah (Mrs. Jacob Doolittle), Nancy 
(Mrs. Robert Small) and William. The father 
died in 1853, the mother on May 2, 1883, in her 
ninety fourth year; they were members of the 
Presbyterian Church. 

John Cubbage was reared and educated in Mans- 
field, Allegheny county, and when of suitable age 
entered the employ of a Mr. Fahnestock, a drug- 
gist, and also studied medicine for some years. In 
18 — he was united in marriage with Eliza J. 
Ewing, and the}' had two children : George A. and 
James S. This wife dying in 18 — , Mr. Cubbage 
married, for his second, Mary Hutchison, by which 
union there were six children, viz.: Sarah M.,* 
Hannah P. (Mrs. Theodore McCloy), Nancy J., 
Sarah A., Ella C. (Mrs. Joseph Reed) and Lyda 
J. (Mrs. John Harper). The mother of this family 
departed this life December 16, 1863, and our sub- 
ject afterward married Ann J. Holland, who bore 
him three children: Aun M. (Mrs. William Small), 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Martha J. (Mrs. George Lenning) and Enretia M. 
(Mrs. Harry McKeown). John Cabbage died 
August 4, 1880. Mr. Cubbage in religious faith 
was a Covenanter. He was a farmer by occupation 
after 1865, the year in which he came to Cecil 
township, this county. 




ILLIAM H. MORRISON, a prosperous 
manufacturer of Monongahela, is de- 
scended from a well-kuown family who 
emigrated from Ireland. James Morri- 
son, the earliest ancestor of our subject 
to settle in Pennsylvania, was born in County Lon- 
donderry, Ireland, and there grew to manhood. 
Some time after his marriage he came to America 
and located in Chester county, Penn. In 1773, 
accompanied by their two sons, John and Henry, 
Mr. and Mrs. Morrison moved to Nottingham town 
ship, Washington county, where both parents died. 
Henry Morrison was born in 1752, in New Lon- 
don, Chester Co., Penn., and was there reared and 
educated. He then came with his parents to Not- 
tingham township, where he was married to Pa- 
tience Sayers, who bore him the following chil- 
dren: William, John, James, Henry, Elizabeth 
(wife of William Donaldson), Patience (married to 
John Gaston), Sarah (wife of William Gault), 
Susan (wife of William Gaston), and others who 
died in infancy. Mr. Morrison served as lieuten- 
ant in the Revolution, and parsed his later years 
on the home farm, a tract of 400 acres in Notting- 
ham township. He was au active member of the 
Democratic party, and in religion a member of 
Mingo Presbyterian Church. He died at the age 
of eighty-two years. 

John Morrison, son of Henry and Patience 
(Sayers) Morrison, was born July 2, 1792, on the 
home place in Nottingham township, received a 
subscription school education, and passed his en- 
tire life on the homestead, where he followed farm- 
ing and stock raising. Politically he was a Whig 
and Republican, held various township offices, and 
was an ardent supporter of the school bill of 1837, 
doing all in his power to advance the interests of 
the public schools. He married Mary, daughter 
of Daniel Huston, a native of Nottingham town- 
ship, November 27, 1817, and their children were 
William H, Joel, Daniel, John, Mary C. (wife of 
Dr. Barnett), Patience (married to John Giffin) 
and Elizabeth J. (wife of Robert McAllister). 
The mother was called home in 1845, and in 1870 
the father was laid to rest by her side in Mingo 
cemetery. 

William H. Morrison was born December 19, 
1819, on the old homestead in Nottingham town- 
ship, and attended the schools of the vicinity. On 
May 20, 1879, he married Susan B., daughter of 
Joseph B. Abell. Mr. Abell was a native of New 



Jersey, who settled in Philadelphia and there mar- 
ried Jane A. Lambert, whose children were: John 
L. , Joseph Edward, Susan B. (Mrs. Morrison), 
Jane and Anna E. In 1870 Mr. Abell and his 
family came to Washington county, where they 
made a permanent home. He was a cooper by 
trade, and in politics voted with the Democratic 
party. He was a member of the Presbyterian 
Church. W. H. Morrison came to Monongahela 
in 1876, where he has been engaged in manufact- 
uring enterprises. He has for several years served 
a prosperous firm as secretary and treasurer, and 
the company, being largely interested in coal works, 
has some of the largest plants for coal hauling in 
the country. Mr. Morrison is actively identified 
with the interests of the Republican party, and in 
religious faith is a member of and elder in the 
Presbyterian Church at Monongahela. He has 
one son, William A. 



D ; 



AVID HAGERTY, a well-known agricult- 
urist of the county, but now retired from 
active labor, having his residence in the 
borough of Washington, was born in 1822 
in Canton township, three miles from Washington. 
Joseph Hagerty, his father, came from Ireland 
and married Mrs. Hannah Blair Fleming, a widow, 
whose first husband, who was a merchant, died in 
New York State. Mr. and Mrs. Hagerty came to 
Washington county in 1812, just as the war of 
that period had broken out, and the Indians were 
very hostile. Some of them were encamped on 
the farm on which Mr. Hagerty had settled, and 
on which two former settlers had been taken pris- 
oners. The nearest fort was at Taylorstown. Mr. 
and Mrs. Hagerty were the parents of children, as 
follows: John, Joseph, Robert, Blair and William, 
all deceased; Joseph and David (twins), of whom 
Joseph is living in Kansas, and David is our sub- 
ject; Nancy, deceased wife of James Van Kirk; 
Mary, deceased wife of Samuel Wilkey; Betsey, 
deceased, unmarried; and one that died at the age 
of three years. The father died in 1825, at the 
age of sixty years; the mother passed away in 
1850, at the home of her son, David, when aged 
ninety-three years. 

David Hagerty, whose name opens this sketch, 
helped, when a boy, to clear the farm which he 
now owns. The subscription school which he at- 
tended, three miles from his home, was a primitive 
structure, 24x40 feet in area, made of cut logs, 
the windows being simply greased paper pasted 
over openings in the wall. The benches were made 
of split logs without backs. The only books then 
used were the United States Speller, the English 
Reader, the Western Calculator and the Bible. 
Our subject attended school three months in the 
year. Mr. Hagerty was married to Mrs. Jennie 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Griffith Farrer, of Buffalo township, this county, 
who died iu 1873, leaving daughters, viz.: Sarah 
Josephine (wife of Samuel Thompson, of Holton, 
Kans.), Letitia M. (wife of Francis Moore, of Buf- 
falo township) and Anna Virginia (living with her 
father). The old home farm of Mr. Hagerty is 
where the sons of Joshua Russell were taken cap- 
tive by the Indians. They were traced as far as 
the Ohio river, where their pursuers found that the 
boys had escaped while the Indians slept. On the 
farm there are nineteen oil-producing wells. In 
1890 Mr. Hagerty came to Washington to live re- 
t i red the rest of his days. Politically he is a 
Democrat, and has held several offices. 



T^HE McCLURG FAMILY. This well- 
known family of Hanover township are of 
Irish ancestry, and trace their genealogy to 
one Robert McOlurg, who was born about 
the middle of the eighteenth century in 
County Tyrone, Ireland. When a young man he 
was married in his native country, and in June, 
1773, the young people came to America. 

They made a temporary location in the eastern 
States, and some years later came to Hanover town- 
ship, locating on King's creek. They occupied 
the primitive log cabin so common in those early 
days, and this one stood for many years afterward. 
Here Robert McOlurg and his wife passed the re- 
mainder of their lives, and died at a ripe old age, 
having endured the hardships and struggles com- 
mon to those perilous days, to which no pen can 
do full justice. Husband and wife were laid to 
rest in the Paris cemetery. Both were members 
of the Seceder Church. Their children were born 
as follows: Jane, Anna (wife of David Andrews, 
Jefferson county, Ohio) and John. 

John McOlurg was born January 3, 1774, on 
the home farm in Hanover township. He attended 
the rate schools of his time, receiving but a meager 
education, and, when a young man, learned the 
trade of a shoemaker. In August, 1823, he was 
married to Nancy Herron, who was born in 1800, 
a daughter of John and Nancy (Galliher) Herron. 
John Herron came from Ireland about the time 
that Robert McClurg left that country, first locat- 
ing in Maryland, but later in Washington county. 
The following children were born to John and 
Nancy McClurg: Jane, Nancy, Anna, Sarah A., 
Mary J., Robert W., John J., William and David A., 
all of whom are living. The father was a prosperous 
man, and followed farming in connection with his 
trade. He remained on the old place all his life, 
and died there March 10, 1838, after two or three 
years' suffering from consumption. He was laid 
to rest in the Paris cemetery. His widow survived 
until January 10, 1883, when she was laid to rest 



by the side of her husband. He was a hearty 
supporter of the Democratic party, and both par- 
ents were zealous members of the Seceder Church, 
which eventually became the United Presbyterian 
Church. Of their children Jane, Anna, Sarah A. 
and Mary J. are yet unmarried, and live on the 
home farm with their brothers Robert W. and 
John J., who have been farming the place since 
the death of the father. William is a blacksmith, 
and is working at his trade on the home farm. 
David A. is a merchant of Beaver Falls, and Nancy 
is now Mrs. Joseph Lyons, of Hanover township. 




EV. W. B. SMILEY. John Smiley was 
born in 1730, in Ireland, to which country 
his grandfather had fled from Scotland 
about 1612 for religious freedom. With 
his father John came to this country when 
quite young. About 17">8 he married Ann Houton 
Stewart, and they lived in Dauphin county, Penn. , 
where ten children — six sons and four daughters — 
were born to them. The family belonged to what 
is known as the "Seceder" Church, one of the 
" straitest sects;" and because Thomas, the 
eldest son, turned Baptist, he became as a stranger 
to the rest of the family, and so remained behind 
when the father and mother and other nine chil- 
dren crossed the mountains and located in Mt. 
Pleasant township, Washington Co., Penn., in 
L785. Thomas, however, became renowned as a 
Baptist missionary in the early history of Penn- 
sylvania. He died in 1S32 at the age of seventy- 
three, leaving a large posterity, and his monument 
stands in White Deer cemetery, iu Lycoming 
county, Perm., where he had organized a church 
in 1808. John Smiley, the pioneer of the family, 
died in 1811 in the eighty -first year of his age, 
and Ann, his wife, passed away in 181-1, aged 
seventy-five years. The sons who came west with 
them were: James (who died in 1N44, aged eighty 
two years), Robert (who died in 1853), John (who 
died in 1818, aged fifty-eight years, leaving no 
descendants), Samuel (who died in 1806, and 
whoso family afterward moved west, and their de 
scendants are now living in Illinois and Iowa) and 
William (who died iu 1866, iu the eighty-eighth 
year of his age). The only descendants of James 
Smiley now living are two grandsons, -lames A. 
and Leander, the former of whom now lives on hi-- 
grandfather's farm in Mt. Pleasant township. 
Robert has one son living, .lames (1. , who is a farm- 
er living on the " Middletown Road." Robert's 
other children were John, who died in 1877; Jane 
(Gabby by marriage), who died in 1842, leaving 
three children; Anne (Coulter by marriage), who 
died in L882, leaving one son, Nathaniel; Thomas, 
who died in 1885, leaving two daughters and one 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



891 



son, who live ou a part of their great-grandfather's 
farm; Margaret (Thompson by marriage), who died 

in 1890; Sarah (Thompson by marriage), who died 
in 1865, leaving descendants in northern Pennsyl- 
vania; Mary, who died in 1858, and three that 
died in infancy. John had no children, and Sam- 
uel's family moved to the West. When William 
married he located in Robinson township and 
raised eleven children — nine sons and two daugh- 
ters. William and his wife on their wedding day 
weighed just 400 pounds, he weighing 198 pounds 
and she 202 pounds, and the aggregate height of 
the nine sons was fifty-five feet. "There were 
giants in those days.'' But these nine sons have 
only left four sons, now alive, to carry the name 
down to future generations. The older ones all 
left the county, and all but one the State. John, 
the oldest, locating in Beaver county, Penn. The 
one next the youngest died just after he had fin- 
ished his education for the ministry. David, the 
youngest, inherited his father's farm, but after- 
ward sold it and located near Burgettstown, where 
he lived until 1890, when he moved to Coraopolis, 
Penn. The farm is now occupied by two of his 
children, the oldest, Martha J. (now Mrs. W. F. 
Purdy), and the youngest, John N. Both these 
have families, the former a daughter and a son 
living, and a daughter and a son dead; the latter 
has two boys and two girls, all living. 

The second son, William Brownlee, very early 
in life manifested a strong inclination for study, 
and when six years of age memorized and recited 
without missing a single word the " shorter cate- 
chism of the Westminster divines." .He received 
his English education in the public schools of 
Burgettstown, which he completed in the spring 
of 1873, at sixteen years of age. During the win- 
ter of 1874-75 he taught school in Kobinson town- 
ship, having spent eighteen months in the mean- 
time on the farm with his father. In the fall of 
1875 he commenced the study of the classics in 
Jefferson Academy, Canonsburg, Penn., and in the 
autumn of 187G entered the sophomore class in 
Westminster College, from which he graduated in 
1879 at the head of his class. Together with J. 
S. Garvin, his intimate friend and room mate at 
college, more than a year was spent as joint prin- 
cipal of McKeesport Academy and Normal School. 
He entered the Theological Seminary in Septem- 
ber, 1880, having studied privately a year under 
Rev. James Kelso, of McKeesport, and graduated 
in 1882. The following is taken from the Bur 
gettstown Call : " W. B. Smiley has just com- 
pleted the course at TJ. P. Theological Seminary, 
Allegheny City, with the highest grade in a class 
of eleven. We believe he is the first young man 
that has been raised, educated and licensed to 
preach within the bounds of Burgettstown IT. P. 
Congregation. The young gentleman has fine 



abilities, and is, no doubt, entering upon a career of 
great usefulness.'' 

Rev. Smiley was married June 7, 1882, to Miss 
Maggie D. Fergus, a daughter of Thomas Fergus, 
of Elizabeth, Penn., and in publishing an account 
of the wedding, among other things the McKees- 
port Times said: "The bride-elect was most hand 
somely dressed, though richer than robes of silk 
is the tender grace of youth and maidenly worth 
with which she was adorned. The happy groom 
was our former fellow citizen, Prof. W. B. Smiley, 
who is held in such high esteem by all who know 
him here, for his Christian character and intellect- 
ual attainments." Three bright children have 
blessed this marriage — one daughter and two sons. 
Mr. Smiley was licensed to preach by the Presby- 
tery of Allegheny on April 4, 1882, and by the 
1st of July had the opportunity of three settle- 
ments — West Newton (Penn.), Washington (Iowa) 
and Chartiers Congregation, Canonsburg (Penn.). 
The latter he decided to accept, and on August 1 
entered upon his duties as pastor of one of the 
oldest and most substantial congregations in the 
Church. He preached his tenth anniversary ser- 
mon on the first Sabbath of August, 1892, in which 
it was stated that -IS I persons had been received 
into membership in the congregation during the 
ten years of his pastorate, or an average of one for 
every two sermons preached. A large congrega- 
tion of the most intelligent people wait regularly 
upon his ministry, and manifest in "very way their 
loyalty and devotion to him as their pastor. He 
was recently urged to take charge of an important 
station in the West, but the ties' by which he and 
his people were bound together were so strong that 
the thought of separation could not be entertained. 
Just recently the people have greatly beautified 
and enlarged the seating capacity of their church 
building, and they have now a very inviting place 
in which to worship. 

DESCENDANTS OF JOHN AND ANN SMILEY: 
— Thomas, a Baptist preacher who remained in 
the eastern part of the State. James — descend- 
ants: James A. and Leander. 

Robert — children: James G. (has four children 
— three living and one dead — all daughters); John, 
who died in 1877; Jane (Gabby, by marriage), who 
died in 1842, leaving three children; Anne (Coulter, 
by marriage), who died in 1882, leaving one son, 
Nathaniel; Thomas, who died in 1885, leaving two 
daughters and one son, who live on a part of their 
great-grandfather's farm; Margaret (Thompson, 
by marriage), who died in 1890; Sarah (Thompson, 
by marriage), who died in 1805, leaving descend- 
ants in northern Pennsylvania; Mary, who died in 
1858, and three that died in infancy. 

John, who had no family. 

Samuel, whose family moved west. 

William — children (1) John, who had no chil- 



892 



WASIIlXdTOX COUNTY. 



dren, and died in Burgettstown, Penn. , after spend- 
ing most of his life in Beaver county, Penn. ; (2) 
Margaret, who married John Witherspoon, and 
moved to West Virginia (she has two sons living); 
(3) Thomas, still living in Ohio (has no children); 
III Ann, who married Matthew Bailey, lived all 
her life near the old homestead in Robinson town- 
ship, and left eight children; (">) William, who 
left one daughter, living in Ohio; (<i) Robert, who 
left two sons and one daughter in Iowa; (7) Eben- 
ezer, who lives in New Lisbon, Ohio (has no chil- 
dren, but one grandson); (8) James, who left one 
daughter; (9) Samuel, living in Bloomtield, Ohio 
(has no children); (10) Archibald, who died upon 
entering the ministry; (11) David, who had three 
children: (1) Martha J. Purdy (has two children 
living: Maggie Belle and Brownlee Smiley, and 
buried two: Lizzie Lena, and an infant unnamed); 
(2) John N., who has four children, all living: 
Eva Leona, Earl Brownlee, Lena Florence and 
Charles Raymond; (3) William Brownlee, who has 
three children, all living: Olive Bell, Thomas Fer- 
gus and Howard Brownlee. 

The four daughters of John and Ann Smiley 
married, respectively, Robert Thome, Archibald 

Brownlee, Atchison (who moved to Ohio), and 

Stewart (who moved to the northern part of 

Pennsylvania). 

Through all the different generations there has 
been manifest in the Smiley family that integrity 
of character and devotion to religious principles 
which characterized their forefathers. There has 
not been one of the descendants of John and Ann 
Smiley, so far as known, that has been a dishonor 
to the family name. When John Smiley first set- 
tled in Washington county, he became identified 
with what is now known as the North Buffalo TJ. P. 
Church, then known as the Associate (or Seceder) 
Church, and to this faith his descendants remained 
true, bein<,' characterized, with scarcely an excep- 
tion, as faithful and earnest Christian men and 
women, and a great many of them holding office in 
the church. They have not aspired much after po- 
litical honors, and not many of them have turned 
aside from the pursuits of their father — agricult- 
ure — but sterling worth of character has been a 
feature prominently marked in the family history. 
An ensign, in the form of a chevron, with an armed 
arm (on which is a wreath) as a crest, and bearing 
the motto: "vibibus virtus" (meaning "valor in 
arms," or "virtue with power"), was conferred 
upon the ancestors of the Smiley family in Ireland, 
probably in the seventeenth century, and was con- 
firmed by the Crown through Sir William Betham, 
Knight, Deputy of Ulster King of Arms, in 1815, 
and duly recorded. The occasion of its being con- 
firmed was probably some special act of valor or 
bravery manifested in defense of the Crown. 



CHARLTON M. LIGGETT is a prosperous 
\<iiing merchant of Independence, Penn., 
and a son of David A., whose father, Thorn - 
as Liggett, came from Scotland with a 
brother, and after landing in America, remained a 
short time in Baltimore, Md. They made a per- 
manent settlement in Washington county, Penn., 
where Thomas was united in marriage with Par- 
melia Dempster. The young people settled in 
Independence township, where the following chil- 
dren were born and reared: Joshua, Elizabeth 
(deceased), James (deceased), Harriet (widow of 
Labau Headington), Robert, Mary Ann (deceased 
widow of John Hemphill), William, Thomas, Da- 
vid A., and Anderson. Mr. Liggett was a man of 
perfect physical proportions, and was noted for 
his firm character and strict integrity. He died 
January 29, 1801, his widow on September 17, 1882, 
David A. Liggett was born September 1, 1831, 
on his father's farm in Independence township, 
and received his early education in the country 
schools, afterward taking a course at the West 
Alexander (Penn.) Academy, which is now aban- 
doned, but at that time was a popular and flourish- 
ing institution. After leaving school he followed 
the mercantile business in Independence, this 
county, for thirty years; then became a traveling 
salesman, visiting the principal cities and towns 
of western Pennsylvania, eastern Ohio and West 
Virginia. This business afforded him an excellent 
knowledge of that portion of the country, with 
which he became very familiar during sixteen 
years of life as a commercial traveler. On August 
10, 1852, he*was united in marriage with Esther 
Armstrong, who was born January 15, 1832, 
daughter of James Armstrong, of Hopewell town- 
ship. The children born to them are Charlton 
M., Emma J. (Mrs. J. T. Raybuck, of Omaha, 
Neb.), Ella L. (wife of Rev. John Buckey, an M. 
E. minister of Holbrook, Mass.), Annie F. (wife of 
Rev. A. H. McKee, an M. E. minister of Hamilton, 
Ind.), Nettie S. (married to Rev. J. C. Burnworth, 
an M. E. minister of Newton, Greene Co., Penn.), 
Carrie A. (Mrs. William Kinnaman, wife of a 
farmer of Cass county, Ind.), Lizzie Bertha (living 
at home), Orie W. (a traveling salesman) and 
Grace E. (living with her parents). This family 
are among the leaders of the community, as are the 
other representatives of the name. Politically Mr. 
Liggett has always been a Democrat. 

Charlton M. Liggett was born May 18, 1853, 
at McConnell's Mill, near Canonsburg, Penn. 
During his boyhood his parents moved to the vil- 
lage of Independence, where he attended the com- 
mon schools, and assisted hie father as clerk in the 
store. He afterward took a position with the 
wholesale grocery house of J. A. Miller, of Wheel- 
ing, W. Va., with whom he remained two years. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Sill! 



He then accepted a similar situation at an increased 
salary with Nicholas Schultz, of the same city, 
where he remained about the same length of time. 
The experience thus gained had given him much 
valuable information concerning mercantile life, 
and also made him acquainted with the leading 
merchants of eastern Ohio, western Pennsylvania 
and West Virginia, advantages which he was not 
slow to appreciate, After leaving the employ of 
Mr. Schultz, he engaged in the manufacture of 
cigars, being the proprietor of a factory in Steu- 
ben ville, Ohio. In the year 1877 he sold this 
business, and returning to Washington county 
again entered mercantile life, in which he is now 
engaged. On May 6, 1880, he was married to 
Clara A., daughter of W. A. Smith, a resident of 
Brooke county, W. Va. The children of Mr. and 
Mrs. Charles Liggett were Mabel O, Harry H., 
Sheldon S. (deceased), Merwyin, Roscoe, Esther 
and Paul W. " Charley," as Mr. Liggett is 
familiarly tailed by his many friends, is a very 
popular and prosperous merchant. Politically he 
is a Democrat, and although that party is in the 
minority in his neighborhood, he has held vatic ms 
offices of trust, to which he has been elected by 
admiring friends, regardless of party connection. 
The efficient manner in which he has discharged 
such duties is evidence of the good judgment of 
those who elected him to the positions. 




^ILLIAM B. WINTER, a young and 
prosperous farmer of Donegal township, 
is a native of the same, born February 1, 
1854, on the farm of his father, David B. 
Winter. His great-grandfather, Chris- 
topher Winter, was born in Rhine Pfalz, Germany, 
and immigrated to America, locating in Donegal 
township, Washington Co., Penn. A log cabin 
home was soon erected in the wilderness, and he 
was united in marriage with Catherine Schaeffer, 
living near Washington, Penn. The Indians were 
then numerous and very hostile, and oftentimes 
compelled the adventurous pioneer to flee for life, 
while the savages ruthlessly burned or plundered 
the desolated homes. But, nothing daunted, these 
"pale-faced" heroes of the forest struggled on, 
and established their home in the face of innumer- 
able dangers and obstacles. Mr. and Mrs. Winter 
died on their pioneer farm, leaving their children 
to finish the work so bravely begun. 

David Winter was born on the home farm in 
Donegal township, Washington Co., Penn., and 
worked on his father's farm, attending the sub- 
scription schools during the winter months. He 
was married to Elizabeth, daughter of Perry Mc- 
Coy, also of Donegal township, and the following 
children were born to them: David B., and Eliza 
beth Margaret (deceased wife of Alexander Wyeth). 



After his marriage Mr. Winter built a residence 
near that of his father, and farmed successfully. 
In politics he was a Democrat. He and his wife 
were buried near the scene of their labors. 

David B. Winter was born November 1, 1823, in 
the old house, which is but a short distance from 
his present comfortable home. He passed his 
youth attending the common schools and assisting 
in the farm duties. In 1846 he was united in 
marriage with Mary Jane, daughter of William 
Bryson, of Donegal township, this county, and to 
them were born children as follows: Elizabeth, 
Hannah (deceased), David A., William B. , Joseph, 
Nancy, Alice, Mary (deceased), and John F. (de- 
ceased in infancy)- Mrs. Winter died, and in the 
year 1866 Mr. Wiuter was married to Sarah, 
daughter of William Milligan, of East Finley 
township, this county, and they have two children: 
George K. and Eudora, both of whom are residing 
with their parents. Some years after his marriage 
Mr. Winter removed from the home farm, and 
erected a handsome residence on an adjoining 
piece of land, which is his present home. He has 
always been a successful farmer, and in political 
life was a Democrat until the year 1860, when he 
voted for Lincoln, and has since been an enthusi- 
astic worker in the Republican party. He con- 
tributes regularly to the Dutch Fork Baptist 
Church, of which he and his wife are members. 

William B. Winter worked on his father's farm 
and attended the common schools during his 
minority. On December 15, 1881, he was married 
to Barbara Clemens, who was born June 6, 1856, 
daughter of George and Margaret Jane (Crow) 
Clemens. They have had three children, namely: 
Elizabeth W. J. , Selina C. and Ethel Mary W. 
During the first years of his married life Mr. Win- 
ter lived on some rented property, and followed 
farming. In 1886 he purchased a farm which ad- 
joins that of the birthplace of himself, his father 
and grandfather. Mr. Winter is a modern scien- 
tific farmer, and also gives considerable attention 
to wool growing. Politically he is a Democrat, 
and well informed in the current questions of the 
day. He and his wife are members of the U. B. 
Church, in which he is both steward and trustee. 



Fl( LEXANDER J. CULBERTSON, one of the 
l/l\ leading dentists of Washington, was born 
fpT in Westmoreland county, Penn., a son of 
J — > Alexander and Amanda (Giffen) Culbert- 
i son, natives of the same county. The father 

died in Greensburg, Penn., in March, 1871; the 
mother is yet living. The family are of Scotch- 
Irish extraction, and the grandfather, Alexander 
Culbertson, came to this country from the North 
of Ireland at an early day. 

Alexander J. Culbertson, the subject proper of 






SIM 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



these Hues, passed bis boyhood and youth iu 
Greensburg, Penn., and there commenced t lie 
study of dentistry. In the spring of 188"' he came 
to Washington, this county, and having just grad- 
uated from Pennsylvania Dental College, in Phila- 
delphia, he opened out for the practice of his pro 
fession in the building where he is now thoroughly 
established. In June, 1891, Dr. Culbertson mar- 
ried Etta M. , daughter of Col. J. P>. Ruple, and 
same year he finished his elegant home on Wade 
avenue, where they now reside. Dr. and Mrs. 
Culbertson are members of the first Presbyterian 
Church; in politics he is a Republican. 



*~~\, OBEHT C. OSBURN, a leading and emi- 
LL«^ nently prosperous merchant of Eldersville, 
i \\ l ;>eun -' was born in 1842 iu Robinson town- 
JJ -^ ship, this county. The pioneers of the 
v family resided in Westmoreland county, 

same State. His grandfather, James Osburn, 
was born in Ireland, and married to a Miss Cutch- 
eon, of the same part of that country. Emigrat- 
ing to America, they, settling in Washington coun- 
ty, Penn., reared a large family. Some of their 
numerous descendants remained in Westmoreland 
count)', while others settled in Johnstown, Penn., 
and among those who perished in the dreadful 
flood were Squire Fisher, his wife (a cousin of 
Robert C. Osburn) and six children. James Os- 
burn died in Westmoreland county. 

James Osburn was born in Ireland, being nine 
years of age when his parents settled in Westmore- 
land county, Penn. He was reared on the farm, 
and continued to follow agriculture most of his 
life; also worked at the milling business for a time 
in Jefferson township, this county. In early man- 
hood he was married to Martha McKennett, of 
Robinson township, this county. Her father, 
Adam McKennett, was born iu Ireland, and, immi- 
grating to America, first settled in Fayette county, 
Penn., thence coming to Cecil township, this 
county, locating on what is now called Miller's 
run. Remaining there but a short time, he finally 
bought a place in Robinson township, now known 
as the old Adam McKennett farm, occupied by his 
descendants. He was married to Rebecca John- 
ston. To James Osburn four children were born: 
One deceased in infancy, James J. (living in Rob- 
inson township), George W. (a resident of Bur 
gettstown, Penn.), and Robert C. The fat her .lied 
in 1843, iu his forty-second year, and his wife 
mourned her loss until the age of eighty-two years, 
when she was called to her rest, passing away in 
1885. 

Robert C. Osburn lived on the home place until 
eighteen years of age, and received a good com- 
mon-school and academic education. He then 
taught live terms of school, afterward taking a 



course at Duff's Mercantile College, Pittsburgh, 
Penn. He graduated in 1864, after which he 
opened a general store in Eldersville, Penn. At 
that time goods were yet sold at war prices, and 
even a small store required a large amount' of 
money. To illustrate the marked contrast between 
the prices then and those of the present day, we 
give a few examples: Prints now selling at 7 and 
8 cents a yard, then brought from 45 to 50 cents; 
muslin now worth 8 or 9 cents a yard, then sold at 
7"' or 80 cents; all-wool flannel cost $1 per 
yard, which is now procured at about one-third of 
that "price; kerosene was 8< I cents a gallon; sugar 
25 cents a pound, and coffee so expensive that rye, 
chicory, burnt crusts, etc., were used by everyone 
as a substitute. 

In 186S Robert C. Osburn was married to Mary, 
daughter of James 1'. Robertson, of Eldersville, 
Penn. She died in 1877, and he was afterward 
married to Hannah M. , daughter of W. W. Knight, 
of Jefferson township, this county. This wife 
died in 18S2, and Mr. Osburn's third choice was 
made in the person of Hattie M., daughter of Cy- 
rus McConnell, of Hanover township, this county. 
Mr. Osburn's business has steadily increased, and 
he is now the proprietor of a large store replete 
with a complete and varied stock of dry goods, gro- 
ceries and hardware. When he began business at 
Eldersville he was obliged to haul goods eight 
miles from Steubenville to his store; but no ob- 
stacles daunted his energetic spirit, and his life 
success has been made in the town where he had 
made so humble a beginning twenty-eight years 
ago. In 1871 the large and comfortable dwelling 
was erected which is now his home and place of 
business. In politics Mr. Osburn is a Republican, 
an active worker in the party, and has tilled vari- 
ous township offices. 



PKKSSLY LEECH. Men of business ca- 
pacity and intellectual force need no formal 
introduction in a work of this character, for 
their names are indelibly printed in the 
minds and hearts of the surrounding com- 
munity, whose interests they are continually plan- 
ning to advance. In the foremost rank of the best 
citizens of this county, the name of Leech has 
ever been identified and interwoven with its earli- 
est history. 

James Leech (the grandfather of subject) was 
born in County Down, Ireland, and there married 
Jane Reynolds. Three children were born to 
them: John, Thomas and William. Having de- 
cided to try life in the New World, the grand- 
lather, in company with his family and a brother 
named Robert, sailed from Ireland in 1774. They 
landed at Philadelphia, where the brothers sepa- 
rated, Robert going south, eventually settling in 





A^J^jZw 




WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



897 



South Carolina, while .James and his family pushed 
farther west, first locating in Northampton county, 
Penu. In August, 1775, they came to Smith 
township, Washington county, and in the unbroken 
wilderness erected their one-room log cabin home, 
which compared very favorably with the houses of 
the other early settlers. With his firearms as 
constant companions. James Leech began the her- 
culean task of transforming the unsightly forest 
into a fertile farm. Eight years passed away be- 
fore civilization had rendered the little home com- 
paratively safe from attacks of the Indians, and in 
the meantime the settlers were often forced to flee 
to the neighboring blockhouse for protection, which 
blockhouse stood on the old Leech farm. Un- 
daunted by the toil and privations of this life, 
James Leech found time and strength to take part 
in the national struggle of his adopted country. 
Her cause was his, her liberties dearer to his heart 
than life, and with the beginning of the Revolu- 
tion he enlisted in a company organized by ('apt. 
Joseph Erwin, afterward incorporated under Col. 
Samuel Miles' Pennsylvania RiHe Regiment. This 
division finally became a part of the Thirteenth 
Pennsylvania, then of the Second Pennsylvania, 
and on January 1, 177s, having served his time, 
he was discharged from the service at Valley 
Forge. He was paid in "Continental money," 
which was worthless, and part of it is still in the 
possession of the family. He then returned to the 
farm in Washington county, where he died in De- 
cember, 1823, having been preceded by his wife 
in 1812. The children who were born after the 
family had settled in Pennsylvania were as follows: 
James, Robert, Samuel, Margaret (wife of John 
Cunningham) and Jane (unmarried), all of whom 
lived to an adult age. 

James Leech, son of the old pioneer James, was 
born September 17, 1775, in Northampton county, 
Penn. His youth was passed on the home farm, 
and he received a subscription-school education. 
Early evincing a taste for mechanical work, lie 
learned the trade of millwright. He bought a 
farm where the old fort stands, and had a saw and 
grist mill, to which latter wheat was brought on 
horseback. In 1803 he was united in marriage 
with Elizabeth Wishart, who was born in 1782, in 
Franklin county, Penn., and came with her parents 
to Washington county when thirteen years of age. 
James and Elizabeth Leech were the parents of 
the following children: James, Jane (wife of James 
McKeen, of Greene county, Penn.. both deceased), 
Nancy (Mrs. James McGhee, of Tama county, 
Iowa, both deceased), John, Robert, David, Thomas, 
Elizabeth (living with her brother Joseph), Joseph 
P., Mary (wife of A. Phillis, of Smith township) 
and Pressly. Of these children there are yet liv- 
ing: Elizabeth, Joseph P. and Pressly. After his 



marriage James Leech settled on a farm in Smith 
township. In 1812 he entered the war of that 
period, serving under Harrison throughout the 
campaign. In politics he was a Whig, first a 
Jackson man; but changed on the bank question, 
and took a very active part in the campaign pre- 
ceding the election of President Harrison. He 
was an enthusiastic admirer of his older leader, and 
did all in his power to secure the election of the 
sturdy, fearless veteran. In 1818 Mr. Leech was ap- 
pointed a justice of the peace, tilling that office twen- 
ty-two years, dining which time his rulings were 
invariably sustained by the higher courts. He and 
hte wife were members of the Seceder Church ami 
then of the Union Church, to which he contrib- 
uted liberally, having given the land for a church 
at Mt. Vernon before the project was abandoned, 
owing to disorganization. He was a ruling elder 
in the Seceder Church and of the Associate 
Union Church during his life. The old church 
.stands. He was called to his long home June 27, 
l s "'2, and June J, 18(37, his wife was laid to rest 
beside him. 

Pressly Leech (son of James and Elizabeth 
Leech) was born October 20, 1832, on the home 
farm in Smith township, where his boyhood was 
passed. His early education was received at the 
country schools, after which he was a student at 
Washington and Jefferson College for one year, 
being then obliged to leave school on account of 
an attack of inflammatory rheumatism. Return- 
ing to the farm, and upon regaining his health, he 
taught from 1854 to 1857 in Smith township, also 
followed agricultural pursuits. On January 8, 
L857, he was united in marriage with Susan R. 
Marshall, who was born in 1S35, in Queen Anne's 
county, Md., daughter of Stewart and Maria 
(Tittle) Marshall. Stewart Marshall was born in 
Cross Creek township, a son of William Marshall, 
who came from Ireland to America when twelve 
years old, and died in Cross Creek township. 
Stewart Marshall, who was a stone mason, was 
married in Baltimore to Maria Little, and by her 
had four children: Elizabeth, in Midway; Louisa, 
widow of John Robertson, of Cross Creek village; 
Susan R., Mrs. Pressly Leech, and Sarah, wife of 
John Barnes, living in Jefferson county, Iowa. 
Mr. Marshall died in Iowa, his wife in Maryland. 
Mrs. Leech spent, her girlhood in Baltimore, and 
after coming to Pennsylvania taught school for a 
t ime in Cross Creek township prior to her marriage. 
The children of Pressly and Susan R. (Marshall) 
Leech are Lizzie Wishart (living at home), Susan 
L. (wife of William Mcllvaine, of Mount Pleasant 
township), James P. (a farmer of Smith township, 
living on the old Grandfather Leech farm), Robert 
V. (deceased in youth), John C. (residing with his 
parents), Linda E. (a graduate of California 



898 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



(Penn.) College, now teaching school in Mt. 
Pleasant township), J. Gibson and Ernest A. (liv- 
ing at home). 

Mr. and Mrs. Leech began married life on the 
old Leech homestead, where they resided until 
1867. He then purchased some land adjoining 
the old place, to which he has continued to add, 
now owning almost two hundred acres of choice 
land. A few years ago he erected one of the finest 
country residences in Smith township, including 
many conveniences which can be found in no other 
farm-house of the neighborhood. The dwelling is 
elegantly furnished and very commodious, while 
the barn— a substantial structure 10x60 feet, with 
wing 28x80 feet — was built in 1892, and is one of 
the finest in the township. In 1891 Mr. Leech 
erected an aermotor, which pumps water, shells 
corn, grinds chop feed for his own use, as well as 
thousands of bushels per annum for his neighbors. 
The first steam thresher used in the township was 
owned by a company of which Mr. Leech was a 
member. The first sewing machine (a " Wheeler 
& Wilson ") in the vicinity was owned by the fam- 
ily, and was a curiosity in its day. His farm is 
situated about five miles from Burgettstown, on 
what is called the "Contention tract," the Vance, 
Campbell and Stevenson families all at one time 
advancing claims to it, but which finally became 
the "Campbell farm." 

In politics he was formerly a Whig, and upon 
the organization of the party became a Republican, 
but has always limited his political interests to the 
ballot, preferring to spend his time in other ways. 
He and his wife are members of the Mt. Pros- 
pect Presbyterian Church, of which he is a deacon. 



JlOHN GARDNER, Sk., one of the pioneer 
I settlers of this county, was born in 1757, 
] and died September 10, 1821. He came 
from Wales to America about the middle of 
the eighteenth century, settling on the banks of 
the Potomac river, near Mt. Vernon, the home 
of Washington, and was familiar with the patriot. 
In his early days he came to Washington county 
(between 1770 and 1774), married Elizabeth Clark 
(in 1783), daughter of James Clark, and moved to 
the farm, then known as Greathouse Castle, where 
they both died. They were buried in Cross Creek 
graveyard, where a marble monument, eight feet 
high, marks their resting place, and bears their 
names. 

Elizabeth Clark, born in 1748, died October 1, 
1853, was left by herself one day before her mar- 
riage, busy at her loom, while her father, James 
Clark, Alexander Leeper, a brother inlaw Samuel 
Leeper, 'and others went to the Leeper farm to 
build some fence; and John Yeaman went to a 
garden, about one and one-half miles off, to get 



some parsnips for dinner. The latter, on his re- 
turn, stopped at a spring to get a drink of water, 
and was sitting on a log resting, when the Indians 
rushed on him, and killed and scalped him. The 
same day, before they killed Yeaman, they came 
on James Robinson and his son, where they were 
fixing or preparing ground to plant potatoes. 
The boy got on the horse, but the father missed 
his jump and fell, and the Indians killed and 
scalped him. The boy made home in safety. 
The Indians came along where Miss Clark was 
weaving. She, seeing them, got up in the loft of 
the loom-shop, and covered herself with flaxtow. 
They came in and took some meat from the pot 
that was boiling on the fire, cut some of the web 
off the loom and left. She expected to be burnt 
alive, but they did not know she was there. When 
the men came for dinner, she told the tale, and 
they went to hunt up Yeaman, but found him as 
described. They started in pursuit of the Indians 
as soon as they could get help, aDd traced them 
to the Ohio river, near Mingo bottom, in time to 
see them climb the bank on the other side. Know- 
ing there was a large force at Mingo, they re- 
turned home, and next day they buried Mr. Yeaman 
near where he was killed, under a gum tree on 
the farm now owned by George Criss' heirs, one 
and one-half miles west of Eldersville, where there 
were several persons buried from 1770 to 1775. 
Those were the last deaths at the hands of the 
Indians in these parts. The whites had a fort 
on the Richard Wells farm; but had not been 
troubled much with Indians for sometime, so were 
not on the lookout, and they had just come from 
the fort a short time before. The grant of land 
to John Greathouse, made by the Commonwealth 
of Pennsylvania, comprised 289 acres on Harmon 
run. It was surveyed March 7, 1775, and Septem- 
ber 15, 1784, and deeded to Greathouse July 7, 
1786, with other lands amounting to 4(111 acres. 

The children boru to John and Elizabeth (Clark) 
Gardner were William, born August 7. 1784; 
Sarah, January 7, 1786; Margaret, July 26, 1785; 
Lvdia, March 27, 1790; Rachel, November 25, 
1792; John, October 2, 1794; James. May 29,1796; 
David, March 28, 1798; Samuel, May 15, 1801. 
All have passed away except •lames, who is living 
with his son, Levi, in Hancock county, W. Va. , 
where he has seventeen oil-producing wells on his 
farm of 300 acres in the Turkey Foot oil region. 
David Gardner, born March 23, 17 ( .»S, married 
Nancy Donovan in 1819, and to this union the fol 
lowing named children were born: Eliza, born 
November 22. 1820 (married G. Swearingen); John, 
October 1, 1S22 (married Parmelia Gardner, Au- 
gust. 20, 1846); David (married Lizzie Merryman, 
of Brooke county); Thomas (died in youth); James 
(married Mary Sanders, of Brooke county, Va.); 
George (married Mrs. Lizzie Robinson, of Steuben- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



899 



ville, Ohio); Rezin (died in early youth); William 
(married Carity Hendricks, of Brooke county, 
Va. ); Rachel (married Reason Walker, of Wash 
ington county, Penn.): Anne (married W. B. 
Morrow, of Brooke county, Va. . now of Seliua, 
Kans.); Martin (married Lizzie Sanders, of this 
county); Mary (married D. F. Patterson, of Pat- 
terson's Mills, Penn., now a prominent lawyer of 
Pittsburgh, Penn.). Thomas Donovan, Sr. , came 
from Baltimore, Md., with his family in 1812, and 
settled on the farm now occupied by his son, 
Thomas, now a man over ninety years old. The 
pioneer of the name in this county was born Sep- 
tember 10, 17 — . On August 3, 1787, he married 
Anne Cole, born November 7, 1765, and their 
children were Honor, born May 26, 1788, married 
Thomas Wheeler; John, born June 8, 1790, died 
January 5, 1N34; Abram (1), born November 26, 
1792, died November 26, 1795; Sarah, born March 
11, 1795; Harriet, born March 17, 1797; Ellen, 
born March 11, 1799; Nancy, born December Hi. 
1800, married David Gardner in 1819; Thomas, 
born February 14, 1803; Abram (2), born May 3, 
1805; Cornelius, born September 20, 1807; Ruth, 
born March 26, 1810; and Selina, born February 
9, 1813. All are numbered with the dead, except 
Thomas Donovan, named above. 

Samuel Gardner, born May 15, ISO 1 , married 
Ruth Sharp, in 1826. Their children were Per- 
melia, born November 8. 1S27; Clarissa, Novem- 
ber 17, 1829; Edward M., January 7, 1832; Jane, 
July 14, 1834; John F., December 27, 1836; Levi 
S., May 23, 1839; Samuel Scott, June 27, 1842; 
James H, April 13, 1845, aud David Reeves. April 
13, 1845. The father of this family died April 1, 
1877, leaving to the heirs a tract of 600 acres con- 
nected with the home farm. John Gardner, born 
October 1; 1822, married Permelia Gardner, 
August 20, 1846. She is the eldest daughter of 
Samuel Gardner, named above. The children of 
this marriage are D. S. Gardner, born July 9, 1847; 
Edward Morgan, born June 16, 1849, died January 
23, 1854; Thomas D., born October 14, 1850, died 
March 21, 1S76; Marion F., born October 23, 1852; 
Emma, born April 29, 1855; Ruth Ella, born De- 
cember 7, 1858; Reason Walker, born November 
19, 1861; Freeman Sharp, born September 14, 
1864; Lucy Etta, born July 3, 1866; Nancy Cora 
Austa, born January 21, 1869, and Robert C, 
born November 12, 1872. 

John Gardner, Sr., was a Presbyterian: Eliza 
beth, his wife, united with the Disciple Church, 
founded by Alexander Campbell, of Bethany, Va., 
and commonly called Campbellites, now known as 
the Christian Church, and was a faithful member, 
and regular at all convenient meetings until she 
lost her sight. Being blind for many years, but 
very industrious, she was nearly always knitting, 
and could shape a very nice stocking, knowing 



when she would drop a stitch. Their son, William, 
married Patty Wilcoxou, and settled near Lisbon, 
Ohio; afterward settled on a farm near Holliday's 
Cove, Va. Their children were John, Samuel, 
Robert, William, Betsy, Verlinda and Margaret. 
Sarah married Arch Freshwater, their children 
being John, Arch, William, David, Fanny and 
Betsy. Margaret married John Hindman, of 
Brooke county, Va., settled on a farm on the road 
from Washington (Penn.) to Steubenville (Ohio), 
but exchanged that for other land and mill prop- 
erty at Holliday's Cove, where they ended their 
days. Their children were Betty, John (represent- 
ative to Richmond, who was killed by the cars 
while walking on the track in sight of his house 
a few years ago), James, William, Samuel, Frank, 
Cyrus, Harriet, Margaret and Mary, nearly all 
devout Christians. Lydia married David Cham- 
bers, settled at Cadiz, Ohio, kept a hotel for many 
years, went on a farm and died, leaving John, 
David, Nancy and Rachel. Rachel married Robert 
Scott, settled and spent their days on a farm on 
the pike from Wellsburg, Va., to Washington, 
Penn., where they kept a tavern and store, and 
worked their large and fertile farm, which still 
belongs to their heirs, for many years. Both were 
very useful members of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church, and were the means of building the Frank- 
lin meeting house. Their children were Eliza, 
married to Rezin Reeves, of Wellsburg, Va. ; Per- 
melia, married to Rev. James Hopkins, and located 
at Sewickley, Penn. (Mr. Hopkins died a few years 
ago; he was a ruling elder for many years; his 
widow is still living); Katharine, married to Rev. 
Crea, and they lived on part of the home farm 
until their death; Mary, married Edward Hunter, 
aud took the home house to live in, which is 
now occupied by their two children, Robert and 
Ella; Rachel, married to Rev. George Hudson (he 
and family own part of her father's farm, she 
being dead for many years); David, who went West 
while young; McKendry, Fletcher and Ella, living 
at Washington, D. C. ; John, married to Eliza 
Reeves, of Brooke county, Va. , and lived at Wells 
burg many years, where he kept a store and tavern, 
and had an interest in a steamboat called "The 
Swan" (he ran coaches, and was a very useful 
man; he moved to a point opposite East Liverpool, 
Ohio, where he had a large tract of land, built a 
large house, established a ferry, aud left a consider- 
ble fortune to his three children; he was justice of 
the peace for many years); James, married to Mary 
Sharp, and settled near Paris, Penn., on a beautiful 
farm, raised a large family, became rich, and is 
yet living (his wife died many years ago; his sons 
were good workers, as were also his two daughters); 
Eliza, married to Rev. James Campbell, who 
preached in the Paris church for many years, 
moved to near Cincinnati, Ohio, and died leaving 



900 



11.1 SHING TON COUNTY. 



his family on a fine farm; Levi, who owns ;i large 
farm (on which there is much oil), and lives on it 
(his children are all married; he married Miss 
Hannah Vanordstrand) ; Samuel, a bachelor, lives 
a rather retired life, spending the summer on 
his farm near Paris, Penn., and at his line resi- 
dence near Natchez, Miss., where he went to live 
with an old aunt in his younger days (he saw- 
pretty hard times during the war, and had a great 
amount of property taken); David, married to 
Miss Amanda Butterfoss, of Paris, Penn., settled 
near his old home, and raised a large family; 
James, the youngest son. married to Miss Mary 
McGuire, who had two daughters, and died on her 
way to Tennessee, where they were moving (he 
owns a small farm near Colliers. Ya. ; his daughters 
are both married, and he is alone). 

David and Nancy, his wife, belonged to the M. 
P. Church until their death in IN4V In Augu-I 
David was a delegate to Conference, returned 
home, and but a few days after was taken ill with 
dysentery and died I he was a Jackson Democrat). 
Their children were Eliza, who married George 
Swearingen (they moved last to Ida county, Iowa, 
where he died and she is still living); John, mar- 
ried to Permelia Gardner, and living on the old 
Samuel Gardner home 1 1 heir children are scattered, 
two being in Dakota, the rest near home; three 
are married, six single and two deceased); Samuel, 
married to Ruth Sharp (they belong to the Church 
of Christ); Edward is living on a partof the home 
farm, married to Rebecca Gardner (he has erected 
a fine house and other good buildings); S. S. has 
a part of the homestead, and resides on it; D. R. 
owns the farm of forty seven acres, well improved 
land, where his father died. 



M 



ISS ANN C. MARSHALL. The Mar- 
shall of Pennsylvania, Virginia and Ohio 
are descendants of the four brothers — 
John, William, Thomas and Robert Mar- 
shall — who accompanied their sister Mary 
from Ireland to America, early in the second half 
of the eighteenth century. They were natives of 
County Down. John Marshall was married in 
Ireland to Nancy Kyle. They settled in Cross 
Creek township, Washington Co., Penn., but re- 
moved to Wayne county, Ohio, wheresomeof their 
descendants still reside, others being found in 
Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania. 

William Marshall, the greal grandfather of Miss 
Ann C. Marshall, married Mary Speers in Ireland, 
ami to them five children were born: Thomas, 
William, James, Jane and Barbara. He came here 
before the Revolution to inquire into the condition 
of the country; but the war of the Revolution 
breaking out, he joined the patriots and fought for 
the right. After the close of the Revolution ho 



sent for his wife and children, and in 1783 they 
arrived at Philadelphia. That year the reunited 
family proceeded to Washington county, where 
they found a temporary home in the house of An- 
drew Russell, of Chartiers township, until they 
settled on the farm in Cross Creek township, now 
owned by A. V. Reed, later in that year. In 1788 
William purchased I'M acres from David Vance at 
15 shillings (or $1.87J) per acre (the same now 
owned by David Gault). and on this tract the fam- 
ily resided until the death of the mother in 1817, 
when he and his son James removed to Wayne 
county, Ohio, where the soldier anil pioneer shortly 
after died. Of his children, Thomas was grand- 
father of T. M. Berryhill, of Hickory, Penn., ami 
was married to Katie Hamilton, and whose de- 
scendants now reside in Ohio. James married 
Jane Mc.Nary. of Wayne county, Ohio, removed to 
Iowa, founded Marshalltown, and died there. Jane 
married John Moore, and settled near Bulger, 
Penn. Their children were William, John, Mary, 
Elizabeth. Nancy, Jane and Ellen. Barbara mar- 
ried Robert Glass, and settled with him near Liver- 
pool, Ohio. William, grandfather of Miss Ann C. 
Marshall, is referred to at greater length. Thomas 
Marshall, one of the immigrants, married Margaret 
Woodburn, settled for a time in Washington coun- 
ty, but removed to a point near New Athens, Ohio, 
where he died, and where many of his descendants 
now reside. 

Robert Marshall, born in Ireland in 1760, died 
in L833. Coming to America in his youth, he en- 
listed in the Continental line at the age of sixteen 
years, in opposition to the wish of his mother, 
who protested solely on account of his youth. He 
served in six general engagements. At the age of 
twenty three years he began to study theology un- 
der Rev. Graham, continuing under Rev. McMill- 
an, of Canonsburg, Penn., and was licensed to 
preach by the Redstone Presbytery. For some time 
he preached in what is now West Virginia; but in 
1791 he removed to a point eight miles from Lex- 
ington, Ky. , where he died. His first wife was a 
Miss McCandless. After her death he married Miss 
Glass. Descendants of Robert Marshall are found 
toda\ in Kentucky. Mary Marshall, who married 
Robert Walker, settled in Washington county, and 
thence removed to Mar, Lawrence county. They 
were the parents of six daughters and three sons. 

William Marshall, grandfather of subject, mar- 
ried Ann Crawford, daughter of Thomas Crawford 
(who died in June. 1783) and Judith Crawford 
Cassell-Adams, nee Jones (born in 174'2, died Oc- 
tober 5, 1839). Mrs. Crawford was married three 
times. From Thomas and Judith Crawford are 
descended the Stephenson?, Marshalls. Creighs, 
Moores and many other extensive families settled 
in Washington county. Thomas was a son of Mar- 
garet Shearer, by her first husband Crawford. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



901 



It is related that on the return home of some of 
her family from the interment of the first corpse 
in Cross Creek graveyard, Mrs. Margaret Shearer 
inquired where the grave was made, aud on being 
informed, exclaimed, throwing up her hands: "There 
is now a graveyard started, and I know I will be 
the next;" which prediction came true. 

William Marshall, born December 11, 1769, died 
October 1, 1860, married Ann Crawford, born 
February 19, 1774, died October 27, 1860. Their 
children were Crawford (born in 1795j died in 
1857); William (1797-1874); Thomas (1799-1890) ; 
Stewart C. (1806-1871); Elizabeth (17114- 1838); 
Judith (1802-1863); Margaret (1808 L867); Ann 
Jones (1810-1877); Mary (1804 L878); Ruth 
(1812 L846); Louisa (1815 L852) and Barbara 
Jane (1818-1870). Of these, Elizabeth married 
John Glass; to them one daughter was born, who 
married Douglass Geary, of Candor, Penn. , where 
their son, Robert Geary, now resides. Judith mar 
ried Ewell Canon; Margaret married William 
Aiken, who was born in 1799, died in L868; Ann 
Jones married Thomas Wilson, who was born in 
180(3, and died in 1882; Louisa married John 
Duugan, while the other daughters never married. 
The father of this family, William Marshall, son 
of William, came from Ireland at the age of twelve 
years; was in the service against, the Indians from 
March 1, 1792, to September I. L792, under 
Captains Samuel Smith and Robert Stephenson, 
stationed awhile at Yellow creek, and then at 
Goes. For this service he received a pension about 
1837, and warrants for land. William, Jr., married 
Mary Linville, and died near Des Moines, Iowa, 
where his descendants still live. Stewart C. 
married Mrs. Ann M. Register (who had one son 
by first marriage, Wilson Register), and had four 
daughters: Elizabeth A., Louisa J. (married John 
M. Robertson), Susan Rebecca (married Pressly 
Leech), Sarah A. (married John C. Barnes, now of 
Fairfield, Iowa). 

William and Margaret (Marshall) Aiken were 
married March 16, 1829, by Rev. Alex. Donnan, 
settled near Candor, where they resided until their 
deaths, and were buried at Centre church. A 
memorial window was erected to his memory in 
Midway U. P. church. Their sous are William 
Marshall, born October 22, 1832 (married Lizzie 
Elder, and has two daughters); Joseph Wilson, 
born December 29, 1845, died in 1892 (he married 
Lulu Crawford; they resided at Burgettstown, and 
had two children); Nancy married Samuel Jones 
(now deceased), aud they resided at the old Aiken 
homestead, near Candor, Pen u. (had two children — 
Dellar and Frank); Ann married David Manson, 
of Burgettstown (their children are Fred, Robert, 
Mary, Ellen and Elizabeth, the latter of whom is 
a successful teacher of music and painting); 
Elizabeth married Benjamin R. McCarty, of Mid- 



way (her children are Edward and Joseph); 
Louisa married William H. McPeak, of Hickory 
(they are the parents of one son, Robert Wilson 
McPeak). Ann and Thomas Wilson had children as 
follows: William Marshall, married Phebe, daugh- 
ter of Col. S. Magill, reside in northern Nebraska; 
Eleanor Ruth married A. W. Pry, near Hickory; 
Margaret Jane married Craig Tweed Bebout, re- 
moved to Caldwell county, Mo. (they have two sons 
and three daughters). 

Thomas Marshall, father of subject, married Si- 
bella Campbell, who was a daughter of Jesse 
Campbell (1779-1858), a sou of William Camp- 
bell (1739-1801), who was a soldier in the Revo- 
lution. William Campbell had a sister who mar- 
ried Andrew Ritchie, and settled in Cross Creek 
township. Jesse Campbell's wife was Sibella Mc- 
Clure (1777-1840). They had sons: William 

(married Mary Welch), Jesse (married — 

Jones}, Robert (married Mary McCTure), John Mc- 
C. (married Sarah A. Puder), Edward (married 
Rusina Rankin). Of the three daughters: Sibella, 
Elizabeth married Daniel McGugin, of Knox 
county, Ohio, and Rebecca married her cousin, 
< reorge Campbell; Sibella McClure's brothers were 
Richard, Andrew, Robert (father of R. B. Mc- 
Clure, Benjamin F. and Alexander McClure) and 

John. Her sisters, Margaret (married Gal- 

braifch), Rebecca (married James Ridgeway), Cath- 
erine (married Sloan). Tho McClures 

came from Ireland. 

Thomas Marshall (born November 25, 1799, died 
October 30, 1890) was married January 30, 1834, 
by Rev. David Hervey, of Mt. Prospect Church, to 
Miss Sibella Campbell, who was born March 1 5, 
1806, and died September 14, 1807; their children 
were Ann Crawford, born October 18, 1S36, un- 
married; William, born January 10, 1839, married 
Harriet ML Noah I have one son, William); Hadassah 
Melissa, born March 2, 1840, married John Mil- 
ton Rankin, March 3, 1864 (settled near Hickory; 
removed in 1872 to a point near Elizabethtown, 
Hardin Co., Ky., where Mr. Rankin died June 6, 
1873; the widow and family returned to Washing 
ton county, land lived with her father, and at his 
death inherited part of the old homestead, where 
they still reside. Her children are John Taylor, 
Lincoln county, Neb.; Mary Sibella, a prominent 
teacher; Thomas Marshall, Dessa Elm Orlou, Will- 
iam Matthew Milton, who reside with their mother) ; 
Rosannah, born June 17, 1841, married February 
9, 1860, to Hervey B. Mcllvaine, removed to a 
poiut near Fort Scott, Bourbon Co., Kans. (her 
children are Frank Marshall, Nina Hervey, Sibella 
J., Dessa A., Mary Ellen, Cora C. and Thomas 
Lawrence); Mary Ruth, born September 20, 1842, 
died March 18, 1892 (she married May 10, 1860, 
William Perry, resided on the old Crawford Mar- 
shall farm; they have two sons: Thomas Marshall, 



902 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



married to Anna Armstrong, and residing near 
Washington, Iowa, and Lave children; and Will- 
iam Campbell, who resides with his father at the 
old home). 

Miss Ann C. Marshall, a daughter of Thomas 
Marshall and Sibella Campbell, is one of the highly 
esteemed and most successful school teachers of 
Cross Creek township. She was born on the farm 
in Cross Creek township, which is now occupied 
by William Perry, and began teaching school in 
her early girlhood. She taught several years, and 
achieved an enviable reputation in her chosen call- 
ing, but retired from the profession on the death 
of°her mother in 1867, and kept house for her 
father. 



JAMES B. BOYER was born February 25. 
1822, in Butler county, Penn., and died July 
'.I, 1889, in Monongahela City, respected by 

clll. 

His ancestors in this country were natives of 
New Jersey, in which State James Boyer (his 
grandfather) passed his early youth among the 
peaceful Society of Friends. When a young man 
he came to Pennsylvania, and purchasing a farm 
in Peters township, Washington county, was there 
married to Nancy, daughter of Col. Williarn 
Blackmore. Five children were born to this mar- 
riage, namely: John, Amy, Samuel, Peter and 
Sarah (wife of Carvel Rigdon, brother of Rigdon, 
the Mormon preacher), none of whom are now 
living. 

Samuel Boyer, son of James and Nancy Boyer, 
was born in 1791, in Peters township, Washing- 
ton Co., Penn. He attended the subscription 
schools of the neighborhood, then taught several 
terms in Beaver county, Penn. On February 8, 
1821, he was united in marriage with Mary Boyer, 
who was born April 10, 1800, died November 16, 
1853, a daughter of Leonard Boyer, of Bethel 
township, Allegheny Co., Penn. Samuel and 
Mary Boyer resided in Beaver county, Penn., for 
six years after their marriage; then returning to 
Washington county, lived on the old home place 
six vears. They finally bought and moved upon 
what is now the Higbee farm, adjoining the old 
homestead, where they died, the father July 18, 
1878, in the eighty-seventh year of his age, leav- 
ing children as follows: James B. ; Peter, living 
near Library, Allegheny county; John W., are 
tired farmer of Union township; Elizabeth, de- 
ceased wife of David Higbee; Nancy, married to 
E. T. Townsend, of Peters township; Amy, de- 
ceased wife of D. Welch, of Limetown, and Lu- 
cinda, second wife of her brother-in-law, David 
Higbee. 

James B. Boyer was reared to agricultural pur- 
suits on the home farm, and received his education 



at the subscription schools of his native township. 
On August 24, 1853, he married Mary, daughter 
of Henry Pomerene, of Allegheny county, Penn., 
and to this union were burn two children: Mary E., 
married to Samuel Cook, andMelinda. After mar- 
riage Mr. and Mrs. Boyer took up their residence 
on a farm in Peters township, whereon they re- 
mained several years; then removed to Allegheny 
county, where they made their home until 1873, 
in which year they returned to Washington county, 
and in Monongahela City prepared to pass the re- 
mainder of their lives, where Mrs. Boyer is yet 
living. Mr. Boyer was a typical self-made man, 
one who by industry, prudence and judicious 
economy made a success, and when he died he was 
one of the largest property owners in the city. He 
was enterprising, and at all times strove to advance 
the interests of his locality. An ardent Repub- 
lican, he for several years was a member of the Mo- 
nongahela City Council. Consistent in his church 
connection, he was a prominent adherent of the 
Baptist faith. His wife is also a member of the 
Baptist Church. 



DAVID M. BOYD, a well-known and p 
citizen of West Middletown, is a gn 
of David Boyd, whose father, John 



popular 
grandson 
Boyd, 
was born in Ireland. This John Boyd came 
to America when but a lad, and settled in Cumber- 
land county, Penn., where he was married to Mary 
Urie, who bore him four children: David, John, 
Sarah and Rhoda. 

While John Boyd the pioneer was on a business 
trip to the house of Stewart, his children were all 
captured by the Indians, and his wife scalped and 
killed. The husband and father, on returning to 
his little home, found his cabin in flames, and the 
mutilated body of his wife lying upon the ground. 
The children were nowhere in sight, and the 
agonized father, after a frantic but almost hope- 
less search, gave up the quest and mourned them 
as dead. Meanwhile the little ones had been car- 
ried off by the Indians. The son John and the 
two daughters were never heard from afterward, 
but David was taken to Fort Du Quesne in 1758. 
He was then returned by the old Indian who 
adopted him, and remained with his father at Car 
lisle, Penn. As may be supposed, the young man 
had little love for the Redskins who had so wan- 
tonly destroyed the home of his boyhood, and he 
became an active soldier in the Indian war. He 
enlisted' under Washington, and served through 
the entire contest, being present at the surrender 
of Burgoyne and, later, at that of Cornwallis at 
Yorktown in 1781. 

After the close of the war David Boyd returned 
to Cumberland county, Penn. , and was there mar- 
ried to Elizabeth Henderson, who bore him chil- 
ren as follows: James, John, Thomas, David, Will- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



903 



iam, Nancy, Sarah, Elizabeth and Nellie. David 
Boyd and his family came to Washington county 
in 1787, and settled on the farm now occupied by 
\V. W. Dinsmore. In politics Mr. Boyd was first 
a Jacksoniau Democrat, afterward an ardent 
Whig. He was an active politician, and served as 
justice of the peace twenty-five years. He was for 
many years a member of the Buffalo Presbyterian 
Church oE Hopewell township. He died in 1830. 

John Boyd, father of subject, was born iu 1784, 
in Cumberland couuty, Penn., but was reared and 
educated in Hopewell township, this couuty. Iu 
early life he was married to Aseuath, daughter of 
Eleven Williams, of Buffalo township, and the 
following children were born to them: Hester 
(married to Ellis Jones, and moved to Missouri), 
David M. , Christiaua (married to Amos Clemens), 
Elizabeth (Mrs. Dr. McCabe), Sarah (Mrs. Cox, of 
Kansas City), Caroline (widow of John Dougherty), 
Parmelia (died in 1853, wife of Hugh Wilson), 
James (died in 1842*. Nancy J. (wife of Hugh 
Clark, of Wheeling, W. Va. ), Johu Q. A. (mar- 
ried to Eliza Black) and Asenath (Mrs. John 
Canon). Mr. Boyd served iu the war of 1812. In 
early life he learned the carpenter's trade, which 
he followed many years, and also kept an hotel 
eight years. He took au active part in public 
affairs, and was an ardent Republican, serving as 
justice of the peace twenty five years. He died in 
1860, his wife in 1808, aud both lie buried in the 
Union Grove cemetery. 

David M. Boyd, sou of John and Asenath (Will- 
iams) Boyd, was born March '23, 1810, at West 
Middletown, Hopewell township, and there re- 
ceived his early education. On May 10, 1844, he 
was married to Eliza Boyd, who bore him three 
children: Cassius, Ruth and Thomas. The mother 
died in 1805, and on May 3, 1866, Mr. Boyd was 
united in marriage with Anna McNulty, of Colum- 
bus, Ohio, who died in 1887. In early life he 
learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed 
twenty-five years, and was then (1853) appointed 
postmaster at West Middletown. He held that 
position eight years, and has since followed mer 
cantile business. Politically he was a Democrat 
from 1845 to 1861, but upon the organization of 
the Republican party became a member of it. He 
has held all the political offices of the borough, has 
been a member of the school board for twenty 
years, and justice of the peace twenty-five years. 
In religion he was formerly a member of the M. 
E. Church, but is now connected with the Presby- 
terian Church of Buffalo. 



AMUEL S. ROTHWELL, one of the oldest 
residents of California, this county, was 
born February 21, 1815, in East Bethlehem 
township, Washington Co., Penn., and is de- 
scended from an English family who came to 



America at au early day. Peter Rothwell, his 
grandfather, was born, reared and educated in 
Delaware, and was there married to Hannah Gregg, 
who bore him the following children: Isaac G. , 
born near Wilmington, Del., November 27, 1780; 
Jared, who married Sarah Jackman, of East Pike 
Run, Washington Co., Penn. ; and Samuel. Peter 
Rothwell, who was a farmer in Delaware, came to 
Washington county about the year 1800, locating 
in Webster, where he remained some years, later 
removing to Columbiana, Ohio; after some years 
spent there he finally went to Adams county, Ohio, 
and settled on Brush creek, where he and his wife 
died of cholera. 

Isaac G. Rothwell was reared in the State of 
Delaware and Washington county Penn., receiv- 
ing a fair common-school education. While yet a 
boy he commenced an apprenticeship at the build- 
ing trade with Daniel Johnson, at old Beason- 
town, now Uniontown, remaining with him un- 
til he had completed his apprenticeship. He 
then took up his residence in Centreville, build- 
ing the first house there in 1820; he also erected 
the first tavern in the place. Here he followed his 
trade some ten years, and then removed to East 
Pike Run, where he purchased a farm, built a resi- 
dence thereon and remained three years. His home 
was in Greenfield, Washington Co. , Penn. ; his wife 
died October 27, 1844, in Greenfield, Washington 
Co., Penn., and he then removed to Adams county, 
Ohio, whence, after a sojourn of about three years, 
he returned to his old home in Delaware, and there 
died, August 22, 1S46, and was buried in the 
cemetery connected with the Presbyterian Church, 
in which the grandfather of Judge McKennan 
preached for over forty years. In 1813 he had 
married Mary, daughter of Benjamin Kenney, a 
native of Maryland, where he was married Septem- 
ber 17, 1789, to Elizabeth Blair, who bore him the 
following named children: Margaret, Mary, John, 
James, Wesley, Rebecca and William. Mr. Ken- 
ney was in p6litics a Whig and Abolitionist, in re- 
ligion a member of the M. E. Church, having been 
among the first to attend the Taylor church. The 
children born to Mr. and Mrs. Isaac G. Rothwell 
were Samuel S. ; Elizabeth, wife of Lemuel Beazell; 
Hannah, Mrs. George Hornbake; Sidney, Mrs. 
James Chapman; John, who served in the war of 
the Rebellion; Jared; and Margaret, wife of John 
R. Powell; all dead but Samuel S. The mother of 
this family died October 27, 1844. Isaac G. 
Rothwell was first a Whig, and afterward an out- 
spoken Abolitionist; in his church preference he 
was a Methodist. 

Samuel S. Rothwell attended the common 
schools, and so apt a scholar was he that he soon 
found himself capable of teaching school, a voca- 
tion he followed for many years. He learned the 
trades of cabinet maker aud builder, and followed 



904 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



both in California for a period of about forty years, 
many of the first houses in the place having been 
erected by him. On December 22, 1835, he was 
married to Elizabeth, daughter of Adam Ashcroft, 
a native of England, who when about twenty-two 
years of age came to the United States, locating 
near Webster, in this county. By trade he was a 
machinist, and he made the cotton-carding-ma- 
chine used in Brownsville; after moving from 
place to place, in and around Washington county, 
Mr. Ashcroft proceeded to Ohio, and* resided near 
the town of Crestline, until the death of his wife, 
when he returned to Washington, and for about 
ten years made his home with Mr. Roth well (his 
son-in-law), after which he revisited Ohio, and 
there died at the age of ninety-six years, and was 
buried. Mr. Ashcroft was a well-educated and 
enterprising man; politically he was a Whig origi- 
nally, and then on the formation of the party be- 
came a Republican; in religion he was a prominent 
member of the M. I']. Church, in which he was a 
local preacher. After his marriage, Samuel S. 
Rothwell made his home at what is now known as 
Coal Centre, in this county, until 1849, in which 
year he moved to the borough of California, where 
he now lives. His children are J. W. (a photog- 
rapher, in Washington, Penn.), Mary E. , Sidney. 
Sarah O, Andrew L. (who was a teacher in Coal 
Centre, but is now in West Brownsville), Isaac N. 
(an artist, in San Antonio, Tex.), Charles Sumner 
and F. J. LeMoyne, the last two named being de- 
ceased. Mr. Rothwell was originally a Whig, and 
afterward an Abolitionist; in 1854 he was a dele- 
gate to the first Republican convention held in 
Pittsburgh. He is a member of the M. E. Church, 
and in 1840 was licensed as a local preacher, in 
which capacity lie still serves with encouraging 
success. 



B 



ENJAMIN F. GREENLEE, one of the 
prosperous agriculturists of West Bethle- 
1) hem township, is a native of the same, born 
.July 12, L825, on the old homestead set 
tied by his father. He is a son of Samuel Green- 
lee, who was born, about the year 1787, in Dela- 
ware, of German parentage, 

Samuel Greenlee, father of Benjamin F., was 
born and reared in Maryland, his boyhood being 
passed in attending the schools of the neighbor- 
hood of his home, and helping on his father's farm. 
When yet a young man he moved with his parents 
to Fayette county, Penn., where he was further in- 
structed in agricultural pursuits under the precep 
tor ship of his father. Be was married to Nancy 
Gantz, after which lie removed to Washington 
county, buying here L 30 acres of land, now owned 
and cultivated by his son, Benjamin F. This land, 
which was then a forest and thicket, has all been. 



cleared, and is to-day one of the best farms in 
West Bethlehem township. To the union of Sam- 
uel and Nancy (Gantz) Greenlee were born chil- 
dren as follows: Elizabeth, George, Jacob, Lewis, 
John, James, Susanna, Mary. Margaret, Benjamin 
F., Daniel, Albert and Anna, six of whom are still 
enjoying the blessings of life, viz.: Lewis, a farm- 
er, of East Bethlehem; Anna, now Mrs. Cooper, a 
widow, living in Ohio; John and James, residing 
in Morgan township, Greene county; Daniel and 
Benjamin F., both in West Bethlehem township. 

Benjamin F. Greenlee received in his boyhood 
such education as was obtainable at the schools of 
those early days. He learned farming, which he 
has since followed on the homestead, where he still 
resides. In March, 1854, he married Rebecca 
Bigler, daughter of Michael Bigler, of German 
lineage, and their children are: Nancy, wife of 
James A. Gass. of Morgan township, Greene Co., 
Penn. ; James, living at home with his father, mar- 
ried to Sadie Imes, daughte* of Thomas and Sarah 
(Johnson) lines, old settlers of West Bethlehem; 
Henderson, a prominent business man of McKees 
port, Penn., and Minnie, wife of William Woods. 
residing in Homestead, Penn. Mr. Greenlee built 
the residence in which he lives, making many im- 
provements, and there prevails about the homelike 
place an air of thrift and enterprise. There are 
140 acres of his farm, all line land, upon which he 
raises various kinds of stock, besides cereals and 
root crops. Politically Mr. Greenlee is a solid 
Democrat, and one of the influential advisers of 
the party in his vicinity. He is respected and 
esteemed by all who enjoy his acquaintance. 




[( RNOLD LAWTON is the oldest living resi- 

|\ dent of Cross Creek township, and has the 
^\ enviable and deserved reputation of being 
one of the most successful agriculturists of 
Washington county. 
His father, John Lawton, was born in 1760, near 
Newport, R. I., of English parents. He remained 
on the home farm during his boyhood, and in 
early life was married to Hannah Manchester, also 
a native of Rhode Island. The young couple first 
settled on a farm in their native State, but in 1812 
Mr. Lawton concluded to seek his fortune in the 
backwoods of Washington county, Penn. Being 
prudent, he did notendanger his family by bringing 
them with him on the first prospecting trip, but 
walked all the way from Portsmouth, R. I., to 
Washington county, viewing the land as he passed 
along. He finally decided to settle on a tract near 
West Middletown, in the fertile Cross Creek valley, 
and returned to Rhode Island lor his family. In 
the siuiiig of 1813 the journey to the new home in 
the wilderness was made with wagons drawn by 
oxen and one team of horses, and the party 






<rns 



WASHING TON CO UN TY. 



DOT 



arrived safely at their destination after traveling 
some three months. To this pioneer couple the 
following children were born: Job T., Phoebe, 
Owen, Lucinda, Jessie Joanna, Arnold and 
Harvey. 

Arnold Lawton was born April 9, 1804. near 
Portsmouth, R. I., and was ten years of age when 
brought by his parents to Washington county. 
On the last morning that Arnold spent in Ports- 
mouth, his father bought a rosewood military rife, 
which had attracted the fancy of the eager lad, and 
the little instrument — purchased over seventy- 
eight years ago — is yet in his possession, seemingly 
uninjured by age. Another relic worthy of record 
is an old fashioned skillet, made of very highly- 
polished bell-metal, and bearing the name of the 
manufacturer, also the date "1730." This article 
was in constant use by the family until 1887, when 
it was laid away as a relic, and the only evident 
signs of the many years of service is in the legs, 
which are worn short. Mr. Lawton has also in his 
possession a very handsome violin made by himself 
when a young man eighteen years of age. Since 
his father's family first settled in Washington 
county, Mr. Lawton has lived on his present farm 
in Cross Creek township, upon which he has mad'' 
many improvements of a most substantial nature 
In 1857 he erected a large, handsome and substan- 
tial barn, 60x80 feet, which was erected upon an 
original plan of Mr. Lawton'sown, every part dis- 
playing the very best style of workmanship, and 
being executed under the direct supervision of the 
owner. When at last finished, this barn was 
universally conceded to be the finest structure of 
the kind within the limits of Washington county. 
It was pointed to with pride by the entire com- 
munity, as an evidence of the mechanical skill and 
taste possessed by a leading citizen, but in the fall 
of 1887 it was burned with all its contents. This 
was a heavy blow to Mr. Lawton, who had taken 
so much pride and comfort in its erection. 

In 1874 he was united in marriage with Miss 
Mary Andrews, who was born in 1842, in Belfast, 
Ireland, coming with her grandparents to America 
when but seven years of age. They first located 
in Steubenville, Ohio, but afterward settled in 
Patterson's Mills, this county, where they died. 
She then made her home with Mr. Lawton and his 
sister, who was then keeping house for him. After 
the death of this sister, Arnold Lawton felt the 
need of a companion, and Miss Andrews being in 
need of a home, the two (who had become very 
much attached to each other) decided to unite 
their lives. They have had four children, namely: 
Ida, Minnie, John, and one unnamed, all of whom 
died in infancy, and were buried in the family 
burying ground, excepting Ida, who was interred 
at West Middletown. At one time Arnold Lawton 
owned over 700 acres of fine land, but has disposed 

43 



of all but 412 acres, which he keeps in an excellent 
state of cultivation; and he has given much atten- 
tion to raising sheep, having had as many as 600 
at one time. Politically he is a stanch member of 
the Democratic party. Now four-score and eight 
years of age, he is yet remarkably bright and en- 
ergetic, although he has retired from active farm 
labor. 

Cameron W. Lawton was born in 1874. He is 
an adopted son of Arnold Lawton, and evinces- a 
strong inclination for the higher and more instruct 
ive class of literature. 



f/OHN A. FINLEY. The Pinley family are 
numbered with the earliest pioneers of 
t Washington county, and are of Scotch origin. 
^^ John Finley was born in Scotland, whence 
he emigrated in an early day. Coming to 
America he first settled in Maryland, then moved 
to Pennsylvania, and took out a patent for 1,000 
ani's of land in Allegheny county. He was mar- 
ried in the State of Maryland to Margaret Row- 
land, who bore him the following children: Will 
iam, John, Robert (a general in the militia), Jane 
(Mis Curry), Margaret (Mrs. Baldwin), Isabelle 
(Mrs. Cochran), Mary (Mrs. St. Clair), Susan 
(Mrs. Wilson), Levi, James and Sarah (Mrs. 
Neal), all of whom have passed away. The father 
of this family was a Democrat in politics, and in 
religion a member of the Presbyterian Church, of 
which Dr. Marshall was then pastor; both parents 
dieil on the farm in Allegheny county. 

Levi Finley, son of John and Margaret Finley, 
was born in 1798, on the home place in Allegheny 
county, Penn., and his youth was passed amid the 
scenes of pioneer life. He attended the subscrip- 
tion schools, and after graduating at Jefferson Col- 
lege, returned to the old place, remaining there 
until 1830. On January 31, 1822, he was married 
to Rachel Neal, youngest daughter of James and 
Rachel Neal, born October 19, 1795, seven miles 
above Pittsburgh, in the Moiiongahela Valley. 
When her parents settled on the Monongahela 
river, the surrounding country was inhabited by 
roving Indians, and even at the time of her birth 
it was necessary for the white settlers to protect 
their homes and families from the torch and scalp- 
ing knife of the Redmen. After their marriage 
Mr. and Mrs. Levi Finley moved to Washington 
county, and commenced housekeeping in the same 
house in Finleyville in which she died, November 
12, 1883, in the eighty-ninth year of her age. 
Hence, with the exception of a few years, her 
whole married and widowed life, extending over 
a period of sixty years, were passed in that same 
house. She was a member of the Presbyterian 
Church, where she listened to the preachings of 
Dr. Woods. Dr. Rolston and other good old divines 



908 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



that have all gone to their long homes many years 
since. The following children were born to 
Levi and Rachel (Neal) Finley: Margaret, Melissa 
(wife of H.Baldwin Wallace), Susan M. (wife of 
Rev. W. W. Laverty). John A., F. M. , and Bachel 
N. (deceased wife of John S. Collins). In 1832 
Mr. and Mrs. Finley moved to Greene county, 
Penn., where they resided two years on a farm at 
Rice's Landing, and he conducted a still-house. 
They then came to Union township, Washington 
county, and bought the Huston and Fawcett farms, 
where they remained eight years, selling a large 
quantity of coal. They finally bought the farm 
of 5011 acres in Union township, adjoining Finley- 
ville, and settled in Finleyville, then called " Row 
Galley," but nicknamed " Rogues' Alley." The 
name was then changed to Finleyville, and for 
thirteen years Mr. Finley managed a hotel in the 
old stone house which is yet standing. He was a 
Whig and Republican in politics, and was a mem- 
ber of the .Mingo Presbyterian Church. He died 
June 21, 1861. 

John A. Finley was born March 26, 1830, on the 
Huston farm in Union township, Washington Co., 
Penn. When a boy he came with his parents to 
Finleyville, where his youth was passed. In 1854 
he was married to Miss Alice Campbell, who was 
born July 7, 1830, in Union township, this county, a 
granddaughter of John Campbell, a native of Ire- 
land, who emigrated from Ireland to America and 
located near Finleyville, Washington Co., Penn.; 
lie was married to Alice Huey, who bore him chil- 
dren as follows: Ed., Robert, George, John, Eliza 
beth, Mary, Eleanor, Sarah, Alice and Elizabeth, 
of whom none are now living. Robert Campbell, 
father of Mrs. Finley, was born, in 179(1, on the 
Swagler farm in Washington county. He married 
Mai v, daughter of John Hindman, and their chil- 
dren were Alice (1). John, Ed., William, Sarah, 
Mary J.. Robert, and Alice (2) (Mrs. Finley). Of 
this family Alice (1) and John are deceased; Ed. 
was married to Miss E. Moore, and in 1800 was 
elected prothonotary of Allegheny county. He 
afterward moved to Fairfield, Iowa, where he owns 
1,000 acres of land, and has been appointed United 
States marshal. 

John A. and Alice (Campbell) Finley began 
wedded life on the farm in Union township, which 
they yet occupy. Four children have blessed their 
union, viz.: Mary (wife of William McChain; has 
four children: Ed., William. James and Mary), 
Levi Alvin (deceased June 15, 1S90, in his twenty- 
ninth year); Alice (wile (jf R. C. McChain, ofUnion 
township; lias three children: Louis, Bessie and 
Bernice), and Susan M. Mr. Finley is a member 
of the Republican party. The home farm contains 
10.'! acres, from which he has sold a large amount 
of coal. 




ILLIAM BERRY, the subject of this 
sketch, was born February 23, 1837, in 
Cecil township, Washington Co., Penn. 
He is a son of John and Jane (Eagleton) 
Berry, formerly residents of Mt. Pleasant 
township, Washington Co., Penn. His mother 
died in January, 1844, and was interred in the 
Presbyterian cemetery near Venice. His father 
died in June, 1881, and was interred in the United 
Presbyterian cemetery at Pigeon Creek. William 
Berry had two sisters and four brothers: Jane, 
married to Ebenezer Carson, residing in Paxton, 
Ford Co., 111.; Rachel, married to Robert Herron, 
residing in North Strabane towuship, this county; 
John M., residing in North Strabane township, this 
county; David W., who fell mortally wounded in the 
battle of Cold Harbor, June 2, 1804, and was in- 
terred in the United Presbyterian cemetery at 
Pigeon Creek; Carson M., residing in South 
Strabane township, this county; Joseph B., died in 
November, 1881, and was interred in the United 
Presbyterian cemetery at Pigeon Creek. 

William Berry spent his youthful days on his 
father's farm in Cecil township, receiving a com- 
mon school education at the Plum Run school in 
Chartiere township. When fifteen years of age he 
removed with his father to North Strabane town- 
ship, where he resided until May 29, 1862, when 
he married Jane, daughter of William and Mary 
(Boyd) Barr, of Somerset township, this county; 
she died August 26, 1865, and was interred in the 
United Presbyterian cemetery at Pigeon Creek. 
On May 22, 1867, Mr. Berry married Martha Stew- 
art, daughter of Robert and Margaret (Barr) Pat 
tison, of White township, Indiana Co., Penn., and 
to them were born live children: Margaret J., 
David W., Robert P., Mary E. and Martha P., 
whose lives have all been spared by a kind Provi- 
dence. William Berry has always been a liberal 
friend of education, giving his children the advan- 
tage of a college course. He connected, when 
young, with the United Presbyterian branch of the 
Church, of which he still remains a member. His 
political sentiments have always been Republican. 
After marriage he settled on a farm near Clokey 
villi', where he has since resided, making a specialty 
of bleeding and caring for Black-Top Merino sheep, 
in which he has been very successful, having a 
large flock which he has a right to be proud of. 

JfOHN POLLOCK. This gentleman has been 
a prominent figure in the political, business 
| and religious circles of Washington county. 
His grandfather. John Pollock, was born near 
Gettysburg, Penn., and when a young man came 
to Washington county, locating on 133 acres of 
land in Union township, where his three children — 
.lames. Samuel and Mary — were reared. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



909 



James Pollock, son of John, was horn about 
1795, near Gettysburg, and came with his parents 
to Washington county. At an early day he evinced 
the unusual mechanical ability which is so char 
acteristic of the entire family. He made all sorts 
of articles from wood or iron, and finally learned 
the cabinet maker's trade, which he carried on, 
and in later life he followed farming. When yet 
a young man he was married to Mary, daughter 
(if William Patten, and the following children 
were born to them: Samuel, John, Martha (wife of 
Dr. J. B. Williams, of East End, Pittsburgh), 
Esther, William, Mary, James, Sarah, and David 
(who was a soldier in the Union army). Of these 
William, Mary and James are deceased. The 
father was a Whig, and a member of the Mingo 
Presbyterian Church. He died in 1N44. 

John Pollock, son of James and Mary (Patten) 
Pollock, was born December 18, 1818, on the old 
place in Union township, Washington county. On 
January 1, 1851, he was united in marriage with 
Nancy, daughter of Isaac Van Voorhis, of Carroll 
towuship, Washington county. The young people 
then moved to Mouongahela, where he was en- 
gaged in the lumber business for six years, after 
which they returned .to their present farm of ninety 
six acres in Union township, Washington county. 
To them were born children as follows: Mary, 
Coralinn, Sarah B. , James K. , Isaac V., William 
J., and one that died in infancy. Of these the 
only two living are Isaac V. nnd William J. The 
mother died July 9, 18N4, since which time Mr. 
Pollock has resigned the management of the place 
to his two sons. He has always voted the Republican 
ticket, ami has served in various township offices. 
In religious faith he is a member of the Presbyte- 
rian Church at Mingo, and has tilled the office of 
trustee of same. 

Isaac V. Pollock was born on the home place in 
Union township in 1860. He graduated at Duff's 
Commercial College, Pittsburgh, Penn. In 1888 
he was married to Mary E., daughter of William 
B. Henry (deceased), an insurance agent of Green 
ville. Penn., and they have had one daughter, 
Mary. W. J. Pollock was born October 13. 186S, 
and is living on the old homestead in Union town- 
ship with his father and brother. 



J (AMES P. CHAMBERS is one of the most 
prominent of the many successful farmers of 
J Donegal township. The great-grandfather 
Chambers came from County Derry, Ireland, 
in 1790, and settled in Lancaster county, 
Penn. His wife died during the voyage, and was 
buried at sea. One of his sons, James Hamilton 
Chambers, who had settled in Virginia some time 
before, was the first representative of the family to 
land on American soil. Among the children of 



James Hamilton Chambers we hud recorded Joseph 
H, a successful shoe merchant, who, in later years, 
turned his attention to farming, having purchased 
the home farm from the other heirs in Marshall 
county, W. Va. He was united in marriage with 
Rebecca Bell, a lady of American birth, and of the 
children born to this union our subject is the sec- 
ond in order of birth. 

James P. Chambers was born September 30, 
L825, in Marshall county, W. Va. He worked on 
his father's farm until the age of nineteen, and 
then began the carpentry business. On Decem- 
ber 25, 1849, Mr. Chambers married Mary Porter, 
then purchased a valuable farm of PJO acres, one 
mile east of West Alexander, on which he has 
erected a fine dwelling and a commodious barn. 
To his marriage with Miss Porter seven children 
were born: Samantha J. , the oldest daughter, be- 
came, at the age of fifteen years, a successful 
school teacher in the district school, and continued 
teaching for four years, or to the date of her mar- 
riage with William G. Lewis, October 27, 1870, 
he being a farmer of Ohio county, W. Va. Mar- 
garet N., second in order of birth, was also a noted 
instructor, in music, and as a successful school 
teacher; she began her six years of successful 
teaching at the age of eighteen, and married John 
W. Murray, real estate agent of Washington, 
I' October 14, 1875. William P. died in in- 
fancy. Mary R. died at the age of sixteen years. 
Laura Bell, noted for her correct instructions and 
powerful voice in music, married Samuel Bushfield 
October 2, 1879 (Mr. Bushfield is a skilled and 
competent workman at the carpentry business in 
West Alexander). James A., sixth in order of 
birth, residing here, has become a successful 
grower of fine stock. Ada M. resides with her 
parents. 

The greatgrandfather Porter was Scotch Irish, 
and came from Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1791, and 
settled in the East. One of the sons, William, 
came from the East and took up 225 acres of laud 
in West Finley township, upon which he resided 
until his death June 4, 1818. He and his devoted 
wife were successful in their many efforts, although 
their crops were often destroyed by the Redmen, 
and they had often to flee to the blockhouse for 
safety, leaving all their possessions at the mercy 
of the Indians. They had seven children. Thomas, 
the eldest son, was our subject's father. Mr. Por- 
ter married Margaret Neal, of pure Scotch descent, 
who devoted her noble life to her husband and fain 
ily. They resided at Pittsburgh, Penn., for a 
number of years, where he was foreman in a boiler 
foundry. As that occupation was not suited to his 
constitution, he left the city, came to the farm, pur- 
chased his brothers' and sisters' interests in the 
old homestead, and followed blacksmithing and 
farming. Of the seven children that blessed their 



910 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



union, our subject was fourth in order of birth, 
having been l>orn April 14, 1825. Thomas Porter 
resided upon the farm until his death, March 22, 
1S4<). Mary P., our subject, was noted as a school 
teacher, and was a devout and Christian woman, 
always the idol of her many Christian admirers. 



diOSEPH BELL traces his ancestry to one 
George Bell, a native of eastern Pennsyl- 
vania, who was there married and reared a 
large family. In the latter part of the last 
century, George Bell, and a neighbor, Mr. 
McDonald, came with their families to Allegheny 
county, Penn. They had previously intended to 
locate on the present site of Pittsburgh, but being 
dissatisfied with the country in that vicinity came 
down the Monougahela river until they arrived at 
the first large branch, Chartiers creek, which they 
followed to Mansfield. The two families thensop- 
arated, the McDonalds moving west and the Bells 
ascending the Chartiers. The latter pioneers finally 
located on a large tract in the vicinity of Canons- 
burg, this county, where George Bell passed his 
life in forming the foundation of a home for his 
descendants. He was one of the first members of 
the Seceder Church in Washington county. 

Joseph Bell, a son of this hardy pioneer, was 
born in 17<57, in eastern Pennsylvania, and passed 
his youth on the home place. In early life he was 
united in matrimony with Elizabeth Sharp, and 
the young couple soon afterward moved to Beaver 
county, where they purchased a farm, and reared 
the following children: John, Mary, Robert, James, 
Keziah and Joseph. The father was a Whig in 
polities, ami in religion was formerly an active 
member of the Seceder Church, afterward uniting 
with the Associate Reformed. He passed the last 
years of his life at the home of his son in Colum- 
biana county, Ohio. 

Robert Bell, father of subject, was born May 5, 
1801, in Beaver county, Penn., and remained on 
the home place .luring his boyhood. In early life 
he was united in marriage with .lane, daughter of 
James Tornes, and she bore him five children: 
James, Robert, Eliza, .lane and Joseph. Mr. Bell 
when a young man learned the cooper's trade, 
which he carried on in connection with farming. 
Up was very well educated for those days, having 
had the advantage of an academic training, and 
was an energetic and progressive citizen. In poli- 
tics he was originally a Whig, afterward uniting 
with the Republican party. He was a member and 
trustee of the U. P. Church On September 26, 
1S70. Mr. Bell was accidentally killed. 

Joseph Bell, the subject proper of this memoir, 
was born January 'J. 1835, in Beaver county, Penn. , 
and received his elementary instruction inthecom- 
ii schools, afterward attending the academv at 



Murdocksville aud Paris, Penn. He commenced 
teaching at the age of seventeen years, a profession 
he followed with eminent success until he was 
thirty-five years of age.. In 1870 he began the 
practice of dentistry in Florence, this county, con 
tinning in that profession there fifteen years; then 
opened an office in Pittsburgh, where he practices. 
After a time he moved to Burgettstowu, this county, 
and here has his residence. On January S, 1859, 
he was united in marriage with Agnes, daughter 
of Adam Reed, of Beaver county, Penn., who bore 
him two children: Annie and William. Mrs. Bell 
died January 10, 1870, and on March 14, 1871, 
Mr. Bell married Mary, daughter of Martin Tucker. 
They have had two children: Martin F. (deceased) 
and Mary A. Our subject has attained eminence 
in his chosen calling, and enjoys a large and lucra- 
tive clientage, his success being due entirely to his 
ability as a dentist and courtesy as a gentleman. 
He is a member of the TJ. P. Church, and has been 
trustee of his church several years. Politically he 
is an active Republican. 



J/ AMES ACKELSON enjoys the distinction of 
I being one of the oldest living representatives 
| of the early settlers in Hanover township. 
having resided upon the farm where he is 
now living for more than four-score years. 
Samuel Ackelson, his father, was born about tho 
year 1760, in County Down, Ireland, where he re- 
ceived a common-school education, and there 
learned the trade of weaver. In 1792 he married 
Margaret Donaldson, also a native of Ireland, born 
December 15, 1772, in County Down. The young 
couple sailed for America soon after their marriage, 
landing in New York at the close of a seventeen- 
weeks voyage. Their first permanent location was 
made near Cauonsburg, Washington Co., Penn., 
where he purchased a small farm and followed the 
weaver's trade. He resided in Robinson township 
several years, and coming to Hanover township in 
1814, located on the home farm where he died in 
L832, followed by his wife in 1849. The following 
children were born to them: Mary (wife of Joseph 
Bailey, Robinson township), born November 12, 
1793; Thomas (a farmer, living near Washington 
borough), born August 10, 1796; Margaret (Mrs 
Samuel Lindsey, of Pittsburgh), born August 26, 
I7'.H); James, sketch of whom follows, and Samuel. 
born June 12, 1814. Of this family James is the 
only living member. 

James Ackelson was born October 3, 1807, in 
Chartiers township. Washington Co., Penn., and 
during his boyhood attended the old log school 
house, furnished with slab seats, puncheon floors, 
and lighted by means of greased paper windows. 
In L832 he was married to Mary Donaldson, who 
was born in 1813, a daughter of Jacob Donaldson. 





ccry^e^l 




WASlllXGTON COUNTY. 



913 



a resident of Hopewell township. Three children 
were born to this marriage, namely: Samuel (de- 
ceased), Thomas (living on the home farm) and 
Margaret (wife of William Frazier, of Frankfort, 
Beaver Co., Penn.). The mother died in 1863, 
and was laid to rest in the Robinson Church cem- 
etery. On March 18, 1869, Mr. Ackelson made a 
second choice in the person of Rachel, daughter of 
Hugh and Rachel (Reed) Wilson, of Allegheny 
county, Penn. Mr. Ackelson has always been a 
prosperous farmer, and of late years has retired 
from active business, his sun managing the place. 
Before the war he was a Democrat, but since then 
he has been an earnest advocate of the principles 
embodied in the Republican party. He is a vigor 
ous man for one of his age. Mr. and Mrs. Ackel- 
son are members of the United Presbyterian 
Church at Frankfort. 



diOHN A. GAULT, fruit grower and agrieultur 
ist, is a graudson of David Gault. who was born 
of Scotch-Irish parents, and resided in Can 
onsburg, Washington Co., Penn. He learned 
and followed the tanner's trade, and when a 
young man was married to Jane Russell, by win mi 
he had the following children: Alexander, John. 
Mary, Ibbie, Margaret, William, David, Betsey, 
Sarah and Andrew Russell. 

Andrew Russell Gault, father of John A., was 
born about the year 1800, in Canonsburg, Wash- 
ington Co., Penn., where he learned the tanner's 
trade. After attaining his majority he removed to 
Jefferson township, Allegheny county, where for 
twenty-five years he followed the distilling busi 
ness, also in Mifflin township, same county. He 
then moved to the adjoining township of Elizabeth, 
where he resided fifteen years, finally returning to 
Washington county. About the age of forty he 
was married to Miss Mary Ami Mowry, daughter 
of John Mowry, a prominent citizen of Allegheny 
county. Their children were: Christina J., John 
A., William (1) and William (2) (both of whom died 
in infancy), Sarah E. and Andrew R. M. Mr. 
Gault was possessed of decided opinions, but was 
unassuming in manner. Politically he voted with 
the Republican party, and in religion was a mem 
ber of the Presbyterian Church at Mingo. He died 
in 1879, his wife in 1889. 

John A. Gault was born August 23, 1846, in 
Jefferson township, Washington Co., Penn., and 
passed his boyhood days in Elizabeth township, 
Allegheny county. He attended the common 
schools, and, afterward, Duff's Business College, 
Pittsburgh, Penn. On November 10, 1875, he was 
united in marriage with Mary Jane, daughter of 
William Pease, a prominent farmer of North Stra- 
bane township, Washington county. Mr. and Mrs. 
Gault began their married life on the farm which 



they now occupy in Union township, this county, 
and seven children complete their family circle, as 
follows: Mary E., Donald L., Emma C, Olive E., 
Nora V., Jennie M. and John A. The home place 
contains 108 acres of very fine land, a portion of 
which is used exclusively for the raising of fruit. 
Mr. Gault is a Democrat in politics, and has been 
elected to various offices of trust in his township. 
He is a member of the Presbyterian Church. 



_- HE BENTLEY BROTHERS. These well- 
known citizens and prosperous agriculturists 
of Union township are of English descent. 
During the Colonial period one George 
Bentley was drafted into the British ser\ ice. 
and came to America as a member of the royal 
troops. After the war he located permanently in 
Chester county, Penn., where he was married to 
Jane Carson, a native of Ireland. Their son 
Joseph was born in Chester county, Penn.. and for 
some time resided in Shireoaks. Washington Co., 
Penn. He was married to Mercy, daughter of 
Samuel Dailey, and then settled on a part of the 
Nathan Dailey tract. He afterward bought the 
Logan tract, and there built the stone house and 
distillery which is yet standing, the latter having 
been in operation until 1802. Children were born 
to these pioneers as follows: Benjamin, Levi, Eli, 
Jesse, Absalom, George, Mary (wife of Thomas 
Wilson) and Wilson, all of whom are now deceased. 
Jesse Bentley, son of Joseph and Mercy Bent- 
ley, was born in 1797, in the old stone house at 
Shireoaks, Washington Co., Penn. In 1820 he 
was married to a cousin, Mercy Dailey, and moved 
to Wooster, Wayne Co., Ohio, where he followed 
the business of millwright. He remained in that 
place eight years, where four children were born to 
him, namely: Angeline, Caroline, Carrodan and 
David. The family then returned to the old home 
at Shireoaks, Washington Co., Penn., locating on 
the Taylor farm, where Benjamin, the fifth child, 
was born. The father followed the coal business 
here between the years 1828 and 1840. He died 
in 1842, and the family continued to reside on the 
farm until 1855, when they moved to Parkersburg, 
W.Va., and years later went to Sadorus, Champaign 
Co., 111. The mother died in 1869, and in 1879 
David and Benjamin returned to Pennsylvania, 
and took charge of the estate left by their uncle, 
George Bentley. They remained until June, 1892, 
when they sold the place for $350 per acre to a 
manufacturing company, since which time they 
have retired from active life. Samuel and Joseph 
are yet living in Illinois. David Bentley was born 
November 3, 1826 and Benjamin was born August 
25, 1829. Both are members of the Republican 
party. 



914 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 




liS. MARY D. BLAYNEY. The earliest 
representatives of the Blayney family in 
the United States, of whom there is any 
record, were Charles Blayney and his par- 
ents, who came from Ireland to America 
when Charles was seven years of age. Soon after 
landing they settled in what is now Ohio county, 
W. Va., ami here the parents carried on farming 
during the remainder of their lives, and here 
Charles alsn passed the rest of his days. He ac- 
quired his education at the subscription schools of 
the period. He married Ann Potter, who bore 
him children as follows: William. Vincent M. and 
Josiah. The mother of these dying. Mr. Blayney 
for his second wife married Nancy Faris, and the 
children born to this union were John, Elizabeth 
(wife of William Reed), Susanna (wife of John Val- 
entine), Charles, Martha (wife of Rev. George 
McDonald), James, David, Adam, Rev. Henry 
and Rev. J. McCluskey. The father of this fam- 
ily died June 11, 1800, the mother November 10, 
1880. 

Vincent M. Blayney. the second son of Charles 
and Ann (Potter) Blayney, was born in Ohio coun- 
ty, W. Va., January 12, 1815, and received a lib 
era! education at the schools of his locality. On 
August 27, 1844, he was married to Mary D. , 
daughter of Samuel Douahey, of Buffalo township. 
Joseph Donahey, father of Samuel, was a native 
of Ireland, whence he emigrated to this country 
with his wife Mary Alexander, and two children, 
becoming one of the earliest settlers of Washington 
county, Perm. His children were William and 
Jane, born in Ireland; and Samuel, Joseph, Mary 
and Margaret born here. The father of this fam- 
ily was a member and for years an elder of the 
Presbyterian Church at Upper Buffalo; in politics he 
was an Old-line Whig, and he was a successful and 
enterprising citizen. Samuel Donahey was born 
in Buffalo township, Washington Co.,Penn., about 
1786, where he was reared to farm life, receiving 
his education at the schools of the neighborhood. 
In his early manhood he was married to Anna, 
daughter of William Reed, and to this union were 
born the following children: Joseph. William, 
Margaret (wife of Rev. J. M. Smith), Mary D. 
(Mrs. Vincent M. Blayney), Jane (wife of Rev. J. 
Marshall) and Anna (wife of Rev. J. M. Shields). 
Samuel Donahey was a consistent member of the 
Presbyterian Church at Upper Buffalo, and at the 
time of his death, December 25, 1840, was an elder 
in the same. Politically he was originally a Whig, 
and afterward, on the formation of the party, a 
stanch Republican. 

Mr. and Mrs. Vincent M. Blayney, after a resi 
dence of six years in Ohio county, W. Va. , settled 
on the farm in Buffalo township (where the family 
continue to reside). Mr. Blayney had by his first 
marriage one child, John S., and by his second, 



five children: Anna J. (wife of Dr. D. S. Eagleson), 
Rev. Charles P.. Samuel D. (ruling elder in the 
I'pper Buffalo Presbyterian Church), William V. 
and Joseph C. Mr. Blayney was called from 
earth March 18, 1887. He was a warm supporter 
of the Presbyterian Church, and a devout member; 
politically he was a stanch Republican, and at 
various times held offices of trust in his township. 
His life vocation was general farming and stock 
raising, at which he made a well-merited success 
through assiduous industry and perseverance. A 
progressive and loyal citizen, he gave liberally of 
his means to all public enterprises. 



d|OHN BAILEY, one of the oldest living resi- 
dents of Washington county, was born 
j August 11, 1817, in Robinson township. He 
is a grandson of Alexander Bailey, who was 
born in Scotland, removed to Ireland when a 
small boy, and was there married to Jane Brown, 
a native of that country. Eight children were 
burn to this union, viz.: Matthew and William, 
both born in Ireland, the former June 6, 1749, the 
latter May 2, 1752; Anna, born November 30, 
1753; Mary, born July 14, 1755; Jane, born 
March 22, 1858; Alexander, born December 29, 
1761; James, born September 27, 1763; and John, 
born September 24, 1765, all of whom were born 
in America. In an early day the parents, with 
their two eldest children, left their native shore, 
and coming to America first located in Maryland. 
In 1785 they moved to Pennsylvania and, pur- 
chasing 190 acres of land in Washington county, 
there made a permanent home. The wife of Alex- 
ander Bailey survived him many years, and died 
on the old homestead at the age of one hundred 
and seven years, when the home farm was be- 
queathed to John, her youngest son. 

John Bailey was born in Maryland, and in 1799 
was united in marriage with Miss Margaret Gailey, 
who bore him the following children: Jane (resid 
ing in Robinson township), born April 27, 1 S()( 1 ; 
.Matthew, born May 7, 1802 (deceased); Nancy 
(living in Indiana county, Penn.). born .Fulv 6, 
1804; Alexander, born October 31, 1806 (deceased); 
Margaret, born April 7, 1809 (deceased); James, 
born October 7. 1811 (deceased); Mary (widow of 
S. Ewing, of this county), born February 6, 1814; 
John (subject of this sketch ); Anna, born November 
7, 1819; and William, born May 13, 1823. Mr. 
Bailey cast his first vote for George Washington; 
he afterward became an active worker in the Dem- 
ocratic party, and gave liberally to all public 
improvements, being especially interested in re- 
ligious and educational enterprises. He died in 
L851, having been preceded by his wife in 1845. 
Both were members of the Raccoon Presbyterian 
Church. 



WASHING TON CO I X T V. 



915 



John Bailey (whose name opens this sketch) re- 
ceived his early education in the schools of Robin- 
son township. In June, 1869, he was united in 
marriage with Margaret Stewart, who was born 
June 27, 1833, daughter of John and Harriet 
(White) Stewart, both of whom were natives of 
Washington county; they were the parents of 
three children: Margaret, Charles and David, of 
whom Margaret, the eldest, is the only one now 
living. Mr. Stewart died when Margaret was very 
young, and his wife (who was a member of the 
Presbyterian Church) died in 1887. Two children 
have come to the union of John and Margaret 
(Stewart) Bailey, viz. : Cora L. , born March S, 
1870; and Harriet B., bom October 25, 1874. 
Mr. and Mrs. Bailey are active members of the 
Raccoon Presbyterian Church, and he not only 
favors, but emphasizes his approval by giving 
financial assistance to all worthy enterprises of the 
neighborhood; he is an active worker in the Dem- 
ocratic party. His farm contains ninety-five acres 
of the old homestead, which is in an excellent 
state of cultivation. A brother, William, and 
sister, Anna, both of whom are unmarried, are also 
living on ninety-five acres of the old farm. 

William Bailey (an uncle of subject), two 
Shearer boys, two McCandlasses and one McNely 
were captured by the Indians while working in 
the harvest field, William being the only one of 
the party who esoaped alive. 




WILLIAM DONLEY. The first of the 
Donley family to come to Washington 
county was the grandfather of the subject 
of this sketch. He was a teamster on the 
National pike, and his occupation taking 
him frequently through the county he had ample 
opportunity to become acquainted with its many 
attractions. The promising appearance presented 
to him decided him in making it his future home, 
and accordingly he made a settlement. His wife, 
Mary, was of German parentage. 

William Donley, a son of this honored pioneer 
couple, spent all his life in Washington county, of 
which he was a native. In his early manhood he 
had learned the trade of brick maker, which was 
his life vocation. His first brickyards were situ- 
ated on what is now East Wheeling street, in 
Washington borough, and the entire hillside from 
where is now the home of Samuel B. Donley to 
the residence of Judge Mcllvaine, and from 
Wheeling street to Beau street, was cut down a 
foot deep or more in order to furnish clay for the 
manufacture, in Donley's yard, of bricks, of which 
many of the prominent buildings of Washington 
are constructed. William Donley 'married Miss 
Mary Claffey, and children as follows were born to 
them: William, now a resident of Virginia; Thomas 



and Robert (both deceased); Samuel B., George 
and Charles, all residing in Washington, Penn. : 
Mary, wife of Luther Miller, of Washington; 
Margaret (deceased) and Ellen, wife of S. B. 
Sumney. The father died at the age of fifty-five 
years, the mother in 1880, aged sixty-five. 

Samuel B. Donley was born in Washington, 
Washington Co., Perm., December 1, 1845, and 
his education was received at the common schools 
of the borough. Early in life he went to work in 
his father's brickyard, and for twenty years he lias 
been in the business. His present yard is situated 
in the southern extremity of the borough limits, and 
gives employment to from fifteen to twenty hands, 
the production averaging 12,500,000 brick per 
annum. 

On February 28, 1869, Mr. Donley was united 
in marriage with Miss Eliza McQuay, of Canton 
township, a descendant of one of the early settlers 
of that part of the county, and to this union have 
been born five children, to wit: William, married, 
and living in Washington, Pent).; and Frank, 
David, Mary and Loietta, all yet under the 
parental roof. The Donley residence is situated 
on East Wheeling street, which has recently been 
built up and improved till it is now one of the 
most pleasant and attractive thoroughfares in the 
borough, and on which for several years Mr. 
Donley's family were the only residents. In 
politics our subject is a Democrat, and in church 
connections a Presbyterian. 



LOUIS KINDER (deceased) was a son of 
, Valentine Kinder, and a brother of George 
I Kinder. His great-grandfather, George 
— ' Kinder, resided on Plum Brush, and fol- 
lowed the Ohio and Mississippi rivers as a tradei 
and boatman. For a time he was successful in 
business, but, being overtaken by financial trouble, 
a few years later went to New Orleans and never 
returned. His son George was born in East Beth- 
lehem township, this county, and lived in that 
vicinity until after his marriage, when he was ac- 
cidentally killed in a carding-mill which he owned 
and operated. The maternal grandfather of our 
subject, Christian Boone, was born in Greene 
county, Penn. He had no educational opportuni- 
ties, and followed farming and carpentry, but 
eventually became a successful business man. 

Valentine Kinder, father of subject, was born in 
1805, in East Bethlehem township. He received 
a limited education in the common schools, and 
was a good penman. When a young man he went 
to Galena, 111., upon a mining expedition, thence 
proceeding to St. Louis he raised a crop of corn, 
and returning home, taught school for a time. He 
then married Miss Julia Boone, at which time his 
entire worldly property amounted to $35. He 



916 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



located just below the present home of his son. 
George, and remained there two years. He 
then removed to West Mill. Six years later he 
bought the home of his sun Louis, where he lived 
a number of years, and thence removed to the old 
Nicholls farm near Hillsborough. At the time of 
his death, which occurred June 12, 1890, he left 
$10,000 for distribution, having previously divided 
$50,000 among his children. 

Louis Kinder was born October 21, 1834, on 
Pigeon creek, West Bethlehem township, Wash 
ington Co., Penn. When a young child his par- 
ents moved to the old home farm, where he was 
reared, and resided with his family. Although his 
school advantages were comparatively limited. 
Louis Kinder became a good scholar and an 
earnest reader, and one of the best informed men 
in his community. On December 10, 1S56, he was 
married to Nancy Roberts, a daughter of J. D. 
and Elizabeth Roberts, and soon after his mar- 
riage he began business for himself upon the home 
farm. 

J. D. Roberts, the father of Mrs. Louis Kinder, 
was born in 1802 upon the old farm in West Beth- 
lehem township, and in early life followed the 
carpenter's trade, from which he saved enough to 
purchase his farm, where he spent, the remainder 
of his life, accumulating a good property. In 
1827 he married Elizabeth Hamilton, daughter of 
Alexander and Catherine Hamilton, and they had 
the following named family of children: Sarah. 
Leonard, Henrietta, Catherine, John, Wesley, 
Elizabeth, James, Antoinette and Nancy. Mr. 
Roberts and family were members of the Methodist 
Chm - ch. He died on the farm on January 10, 1877, 
and his wife at Hillsborough on January 10, 1889. 

Mr. and Mrs. Louis Kinder had the following 
children born to them: Elizabeth Jane (deceased). 
Wilber Leonard, Curtin, Iona, Anna, Valentine 
and Frank. Mr. 'Kinder was a Republican, and 
took much interest in the workings of his party. 
He was a highly-esteemed citizen and neighbor, 
and a successful business man. He was in the 
United States service about nine months, enlisting 
in the Twenty-second Pennsylvania Cavalry in 
March, 1864. In religion he was a Lutheran, 
while most of his family were members of the 
Methodist Church. Mr. Kinder died October fi. 
1889, deeply mourned by his friends and neigh 
bors. He left to his family an excellent farm of 
130 acres. 

¥ OHN W. PRY, one of the leading merchants 
of Burgettstown, was born May 9, 1846, in 
fr Cross Creek township. His father, Abraham 
^^ Pry, was born November 10, 1813, in Hamp 
shire county, W. Va. , and died when the son 
was but four years of age. The child was left to 
struggle through the perplexities of boyhood un- 



aided, but by dint of perseverance and energy he 
secured an education, and when about twenty-two 
years of age came to Washington county, Penn.. 
settling in Cross Creek township. In 1840 he was 
there married to Rachel, daughter of David Mc 
Clurg, of same township, and the young people 
settled on the farm where they are yet living. The 
following children have been born to their union: 
David M., Catherine J. (deceased), John W.. Will 
iam H. and Joseph M. (twins, the latter of whom 
is deceased), Abraham, Cynthia J. (deceased), Anna 
M. (deceased), Ambrose (living in Iowa) and 
Francis H. (deceased). The father of this family 
was originally a Democrat, then a Whig, and 
finally united with the Republican party, whose 
principles he now supports. He attends the Cross 
Creek Presbyterian Church, contributing liberally 
to its maintenance. 

John W. Pry, second son of Abraham and Rachel 
(McClurg) Pry, passed his youth on the home 
farm, receiving a common-school education. In 
1804 he enlisted in Company H, Twenty-first 
Pennsylvania Cavalry, being sent to the army of 
the Potomac in the vicinity of Richmond, Va., 
where he took part in the closing scenes of the 
war. In August, 1865, he was mustered out of 
the service and returned home, afterward remain- 
ing with his parents until twenty-three years of 
age. He then moved on a farm in Cross Creek 
township, where he lived four years, and finally 
opened a general merchandise store in Burgetts- 
town, where he has since been employed. On 
September 26, 1867, he was married to Mary E., 
daughter of John C. Rea, of Cross Creek town- 
ship, this county. Mrs. Pry died January 5, 1887, 
and is buried in the family cemetery at Cross 
Creek. She left two children: Charles Lyle and 
Rachel C. Mr. Pry is a successful and energetic 
business man, and in politics is an active member 
of the Republican party. 



IfOSEPH E. JACKSON is probably the oldest 
. I native born citizen of Hanover township 
^ J) whose life has been wholly spent in the 

township, and is the oldest living represent 
alive of the oldest family in the township. The 
family were numbered among the first of those 
heroic men and women, who, leaving childhood's 
home and early friends, braved the innumerable 
perils to establish civilization in the unbroken 
wilderness. When we read the record of these 
early martyrs we may well exclaim with the poet: 

Wlimn do we call our heroes, to whom our praises sing? 
Tlir pampered child of fortune, the titled lord or king) 
They live by others' labor; take all ami nothing give. 
The noblest types of manhood are those who work to live. 

In 1772, two brothers, Joseph and Philip Jack 
son, came from their eastern home in search of Gov 



s ^fc 






~v r» 







c^eWisn/ Up. Uto&4&<UrK^ 




WASIILXGTOA COUNTY 



919 



eminent land, and crossing the mountains, pushed 
on till they stood on the western shore of the Mo- 
nongahela river, within the limits of what is now 
Washington county. They were finally attracted 
by the heavy timber and thick shrubbery indica- 
tive of fertile soil, and pausing on the boundaries 
of Hanover township, proceeded to mark out an 
extensive claim with their tomahawks. Their only 
weapons were two trusty flint-locks, with which to 
defend themselves against the prowling beasts of 
the forest or a more wily human foe. Traces of 
Indians were plentiful, and with the utmost can 
tion did the young men move from tree to tree, 
marking off their claim, and ever listening for the 
stealthy footfall of moccasined feet. They suc- 
ceeded in thus taking up an immense tract of land, 
but, desiring to form a colony, returned to their 
homes before making any improvements. By 
offering every possible inducement they persuaded 
a number to return with them and seek a fortune 
in the "far West." Any article of clothing was 
accepted in lieu of payment for laud, some giving 
a hat, or shirt, or any article most easily spared. 
When the colony was at length fully organized, 
they bid a last farewell to friends and neighbors, 
and with necessary supplies began the toilsome 
journey over the mountains, finally arriving safely 
at their destination. A rough shelter of poles and 
leaves was immediately erected, which was soon 
supplanted by log cabins, and religious services 
were then held regularly. In the absence of any 
minister, prayer-meetings were held, and a church 
being organized the two Jackson brothers were 
appointed as the first elders, both of whom con- 
tributed liberally to its support. It is impossible 
to exaggerate the intrepid spirit and untiring en- 
ergy of these men, who gave their lives that future 
generations might enjoy the blessings of a pros- 
perous home. The following children were born 
to Joseph Jackson: Thomas (who moved to Bel- 
mont county, Ohio, locating on a farm which is now 
the site of Centreville), Edward, Fanny (wife of 
Robert Scott), Rosanna (Mrs. Jonathan Potts), and 
Deborah (married to Joseph Crawford). 

Edward Jackson was reared among the priva 
tions of frontier life, receiving a very limited edu- 
cation, and from early youth assisting in clearing 
the land. He was married to Rebecca Jackson, a 
native of Maryland. She was a daughter of Will 
iam Jackson, who was no relation of Edward, but 
came to Hanover township in an early day. To 
the union of Edward and Rebecca Jackson sixteen 
children were born, of whom the following attained 
an adult age: Elizabeth (Mrs. John Mayhew. Pugh, 
W. Va.), Mary (wife of David Fulton, Hanover 
township), Lydia (Mrs. John McCullongh, of 
Florence), William (of Hanover township), Ed- 
ward, George, Thomas. Andrew, David, Simeon and 



Rebecca. Of these, Joseph E. and Andrew are 
yet living. The father was originally a Whig, but 
during Jackson's administration joined the Dem- 
ocratic party. In church relation he was a zealous 
member of the M. E. Church, although reared in 
the Presbyterian faith. He died in 1848, having 
been preceded to the grave by his wife about five 
mouths. They are buried in the cemetery at 
Florence. 

Joseph E. Jackson (the subject proper of this 
sketch) was born July 31, 1807, on the old Jackson 
homestead in Hanover township. He grew to 
manhood on his father's farm, and for a short time 
in the winter season attended the rate schools of 
the vicinity. The children were usually set to 
work on the farm at an early age, and Joseph was 
no exception to that rule. In 1832 he was mar 
ried to Mary Cunningham, who was born in 1802, 
a daughter of Francis Cunningham, who was a na- 
tive of Maryland and an early settler of Hanover 
township. After his marriage Joseph Jackson lo- 
cated in Hanover township, along the headwaters 
of King's creek, where he erected a very substan 
tial and commodious dwelling, also making numer 
ous other improvements. Being overtaken by a 
disastrous fire, this residence was entirely con 
sumed with all the contents. After the accident 
he removed to an adjoining farm, which he owned 
and has ever siuce resided there. Mr. Jackson 
began life with no capital, and has always been a 
leading farmer, now owning over six hundred acres 
of good land. He is yet able to do chores about 
the house and light farm work, in which he de- 
lights to be employed. Politically he has always 
supported the Democratic party, and in religion 
for over fifty years has been a member of the M. 
E. Church. Mrs. Jackson passed away in 1868, 
leaving the following children: James (a farmer of 
Jefferson township), Edward (a farmer of Hanover 
township), Margaret (Mrs. John Anderson, of Jef- 
ferson township) and Rebecca (wife of Johnson 
Hitchcock, of Harrison county, Ohio). 



AMUEL B. BARNARD is a prosperous ag- 
riculturist of unusual culture and brilliant 
business faculties, and is one of the most 
highly respected citizens of West Bethlehem 
township. The Barnard family is of Scotch origin, 
the early ancestors having emigrated from Scot- 
land to America, where they settled in Washington 
county, Penn. 

Ignatius Barnard, a son of these pioneers, and 
grandfather of subject, was born October 25, 
1762, on the home farm in West Bethlehem town- 
ship, this county. In early life he married Eliza- 
beth Lewis, of Virginia, who bore him children as 



920 



WA SI fix a TON COUNTY, 



follows: Mary (Mrs. William Buckingham), James 
(who married Julia Bricker), Samuel (mentioned 
below), Ignatius (who died in infancy), Permelia 
(Mrs. Joseph Wise), Elizabeth (Mrs. Joseph Ross), 
Nathan (who married Hannah Zollars), and Cath- 
erine (unmarried). 

Samuel Barnard, father of subject, was born 
December 1, 1796, in West Bethlehem township, 
and after receiving a limited education began life 
on the old homestead, which ho afterward 
inherited. He was a prominent farmer and stock 
raiser, ami very successful in his chosen vocation. 
On April 6, 1820, he married Eleanor Barnes, who 
bore him rive children: John (who died in in- 
fancy), Demas (mentioned presently), Samuel B. 
and Elizabeth (Mrs. George Gayman) (twins), and 
Eleanor (Mrs. Isaac Kinder) (deceased). Of these 
children, Demas volunteered at Grafton, Va., and 
entered the Washington Cavalry, under Capt. A. 
J. Greenfield. He was wounded in Virginia, and 
when told that his hours were numbered he said 
to his captain: "They say I must die. I would 
like to live a while longer to kill more traitors." 
He died mourned by every comrade, February 12, 
1863, and was buried in the Lutheran cemetery, 
near his home. Mrs. Barnard died February 23, 
1839, and on March 12, 1843, Samuel Barnard was 
united in marriage with Elizabeth Drake, who 
passed away August 10, 1860, and January 26, 
1881, Mr. Barnard followed her to the grave. 

Samuel B. Barnard was born August 31, 1835, 
on the home farm, where he assisted his father in 
the management of his estate until the Civil war 
began. The farmerwas then quickly transformed 
into a Union soldier, enlisting October 14, 1862. in 
Company E, of the "Ringgold Battalion." He 
was a gallant and efficient defender of the flag, 
taking part in many important engagements, and 
was eventually transferred to Company F, Twenty- 
second Pennsylvania Cavalry. On July 19, 1865, 
he received an honorable discharge. At the close 
of the war he returned to the home farm, which 
he has since conducted very successfully. On 
June 12, 1884, Mr. Barnard married Mary L. 
White, whose parents were early residents of 
Washington county, Penn. Of this union were 
born five children, viz.: Twin daughters, born 
June 15, 1885 (deceased): Samuel W.. born June 
'20, 1886; Mary Eleanor, born February 3, 1888, 
and Charles L., born October 3, 1890 (deceased). 
The home farm contains 145 acres of valuable 
land, situated in the southern part of West Bethle- 
hem township. In politics Mr. Barnard is a Re- 
publican, and has tilled various offices of trust sat- 
isfactorily to all concerned. He is honored as a 
man and as a citizen, and, having achieved pros- 
perity by honest effort, fully merits the reward he 
has won. 



JfOHN McCLAY, one of the oldest living rep- 
resentatives of his family in America, was 
J born in 1809, in Hopewell township, Wash 
ington Co., Penn., a sou of Samuel McClay, 
who was born in Ireland, and who, at the tender 
age of ten years, resolved to seek his fortune in 
the New World. 

Embarking on a sailing vessel, Samuel com- 
menced his voyage to America, and after a stormy 
passage of many weeks landed at New York; 
thence proceeded to Pennsylvania, where he worked 
out his passage, as was the custom of the time. 
(The transportation companies would bind out 
their passengers until their wages had paid the 
expenses of the passage across the ocean.) When 
the youth had paid the debt in the manner we have 
described, he commenced life for himself, and 
settling in Chester county, in the Keystone State, 
began business upon the economical principles 
which have become the peculiar characteristics of 
his descendants. In early manhood he was united 
in marriage with Sarah McClellan, a resident of 
Chester county, whose family had at an early day 
come from Ireland to the shores of America. Mr. 
and Mrs. McClay remained in Chester county until 
they had accumulated a little wealth, and then re- 
moved to Washington county, where they pur- 
chased a small tract of laud (110 acres), which 
they at once engaged in clearing and improving. 
Their children managed this part of the work, as 
the health of the father began to fail, and he had 
to occupy himself in the less arduous business of 
teaming and stock trading. The children of this 
pioneer family were Margaret (Mrs. Robert Dins- 
more). Elizabeth (Mrs. William Morrow), John, 
David, Robert, William and Sarah Jane. They 
were all members of the Covenanter Church, and 
so thoroughly were they imbued with the principles 
of their faith, that the impress of their zeal is still 
plainly seen in their descendants, who are nearly 
all ardent and conscientious workers in the church 
of their forefathers. Politically Mr. McClay was 
an enthusiastic Whig, and was very active in the 
interests of hie party. After a useful life he 
passed from earth in the year 1838, followed by 
his wife in 1842. He left his family a comfort- 
able inheritance. The influence of such men never 
dies, although they may spend but few years 
among us. 

John McClay, the subject of this memoir, spent 
his earlier years in active work upon the home farm, 
receiving but a limited education, at the rate 
schools of the vicinity, the only test books used 
being the " United States Speller," the " Western 
Calculator" and the Bible. The school-house was 
a log building, and the huge fireplace which 
extended across one end of the room was filled with 
logs which the older pupils cut from the forest 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



921 



trees. Tbe clothing of the family was entirely 
home-made — the flax being first spun into linen, 
and then the fabric was dyed and made into gar- 
ments. On April 26, 1838, Mr. McClay was mar- 
ried to Jane, daughter of James Smith. She died, 
and September 15, 1841, our subject married Jane, 
daughter of Robert Welch. By this union there 
were born the following children: Sarah (Mrs. D. 
W. Morrison), who died August 6, 181)2; William 
W., John H. and Robert H. In 1857 Mr. McClay 
married Sarah Taggart, who lived but fifteen 
months, and December 15, 1869, he married 
Margaret, daughter of James Brownlee, who was 
one of the earliest settlers of Washington county. 
She had no children. 

Mr. McClay has been one of the most successful 
husbandmen in his township, securing by hard 
work and economy a comfortable competence, and 
is now, toward the close of a long and useful life, 
enjoying the fruits of his earl)' toil. Mr. McClay 
had long been a member of the Covenanter Church, 
and remained with them until 1 sr«S. when he united 
with the U. P. Church, in which he has ever since 
been an active and zealous worker. Politically he 
was originally a Whig, later a Republican, and is 
now in the ranks of the Prohibition party. He has 
always favored progressiveness, and has done all in 
his power to advance the interests of his township. 



J [AMES TAGGART MARQUIS was born 
October 9, 1825, on the farm in Jefferson 
township, this county, which is now his 
home. His grandfather, John Marquis, was 
a native of Wales, and, coming to America, settled 
near Baltimore, Md., where he remained but a 
short time. He then came to Cross Creek town- 
ship, and located on the farm where he died. His 
wife was formerly Sarah Griffith, a native of 
Virginia, and they were the parents of nine chil- 
dren — six sons and three daughters — namely: 
Thomas, John, Mary, Sarah, Edward, Robert, 
James, Anne and William. 

John Marquis (father of subject) was born 
January 10, 1784, and was trained from early 
youth to the duties of a pioneer farm. He en- 
listed in the war of 1812, remaining in the service 
till the close of the conflict. On November 10, 
1816, he married Elizabeth Taggart, and they 
had a family of seven children, namely: Samuel 
F., M. D., Julia A., Margaret, James T. John R , 
Sarah J. and William E., of whom are yet living. 
William E., in New Cumberland, W. Va., and 
James T. . subject of the present sketch. 

James Taggart Marquis was early in life inducted 
into the mysteries of agricultural pursuits, which 
have always been his vocation. On January 31, 
1861, he was united in marriage with Miss Mary 
Bucher, a school teacher, daughter of Abner 



Bucher (who was also a school teacher in early 
life), and nine children have been born to them, 
namely: John A., Lizzie R. (wife of Rev. J. B. 
Lyle), Lawrence Verne, Julia Belle, Mary Lee, 
Lulu Pauline, Maggie Lenora (called by the tender 
Shepherd to His Bosom in infancy), James Tag- 
gart (triumphantly entered into rest March 28, 
IV')', and Nannie Archer. Mr. Marquis has 
always resided on the home farm, and is the owner 
of 100 acres of land. His children are all well 
educated, several of them having graduated: John 
A. is a graduate of Washington and Jefferson 
College, Washington, Penn., also of the Western 
Theological Seminary, Allegheny, Penn., now 
pastor of the Westminster Presbyterian Church, 
Greensburg, Penn. ; Lizzie R. and Mary both 
graduated from Blairsville Ladies' Seminary 
(subsequently Mary taught three years in this same 
institution); Lulu and Belle attended the Blairs- 
ville Seminary (Belle is now engaged in teaching 
in the High School Department of Brainerd In- 
stitute, Chester, S. C). In religious connection 
the family are all members of the Cross Creek 
Presbyterian Church, of which Mr. Marquis has 
been a ruling elder since his ordination, March 11, 
1880. 

[For historical sketch of the ancestry of Mr. Marquis 

sec history of Marquises elsewhere in this work. 



rINLEY B. WINNETT, M. D. Washington 
county enjoys the reputation of having in 
her midst some of the most skillful physi- 
cians of the State, and not by any means the 
least of them is the gentleman whose name here 
appears. Dr. Winnett was born in Fallowfield 
township, Washington Co., Penn., August 10, 1848, 
a son of J. W. Winnett, whose wife was Mary 
Biddile, and they had four children: Finley B., 
Hiram (deceased), Margery (deceased wife of S. 
B. Weir), and Elizabeth (deceased wife of Dr. H. 
H. McDonough). 

Finley B. Winnett received his rudimentary edu- 
cation at the academy at Hoges Summit, Penn. 
In 1867 he commenced to read medicine with Dr. 
David Shauor, of Beallsville, Penn. After two 
years he commenced a course of study in Jefferson 
Medical College, Philadelphia, which was followed 
by a course at Long Island College, Brooklyn. 
N. Y., where he graduated in the class of 1870. 
The Doctor then commenced the practice of his 
profession at Scenery Hill, a town situated on the 
National pike, some twelve miles from the borough 
of Washington, this county. Here he remained 
eight years, when, his health having become im- 
paired, he moved to Nebraska, where he received 
the appointment of assistant surgeon for the U. P. 
P. R. R. Company, a position he held during his 
sojourn in that State; was also for some time pen- 



922 



WASHINGTON ( 'OUNTT. 



sion examining agent for the U. S. Government. 
In 1884 he was nominated for the Legislature to 
represent the couuties of Cheyenne, Sioux and 
Keith, coming within seventeen votes of being 
elected. In 1875 Dr. Winnett received the "ad- 
ritiulem medicine degree" from Cleveland Med 
ical College. In 1885 he returned to Washington 
county, to the vicinity of his former home/con- 
tinuing his practice until 1889, when he moved 
into the borough of Washington. He enjoys an 
enviable popularity as a successful physician and 
general practioner, his ride being a very extensive 
one, and his practice one of the largest in the 
i". unity, all his old patients remaining with him. 
He is a member of the Lutheran Church, and of 
the I. O. O. F., and vice-president of the U. S. 
Excelsior Building & Loan Association of Wash 
ington. 

In 1869 Dr. Winnett was married to Miss Isabel 
Scott, daughter of John D. Scott, of Somerset 
township, and two children were born to them: John 
Elmer (who attended college one year at Thiel ami 
one at Washington), and Ray (attending Wash- 
ington and Jefferson College). John Elmer was 
for a short time at the head of his father's 
drug store, which he conducted with an abil- 
ity seldom attained by men of his age. But 
the grim monster, death, loves a shining mark, 
and after a slight exposure and cold, at first 
trivial or slight, it developed into tuberculosis. 
He was prescribed for by some of the best 
physicians of the East, and tried for a while the 
seashore. Finding no relief, he was taken to Colo- 
rado, and Manitou Springs, and from there to 
Mexico. Finding no panacea there, he was 
brought home to his father, where he lived only a 
few weeks. His classmates in both colleges de- 
plore his taking away. He was an honored mem- 
ber of the I. O. Heptasophs, who feel that a brother 
is gone. His parents feel the loss of a noble son 
more than mere words can express. 




i\ILLIAM GALBRAITH. an influential citi- 
zen of Carroll township, is a native of the 
fair " Green Island " which has given so lib 
erally to America of its noblest product 
— the warm-hearted energetic sons and daughters 
of Erin. Robert Galbraith was born in 1774, in 
Ireland, where he was married to Elizabeth Alexan- 
der, ami whore the following children were born to 
them: Robert. William and Frances. In 1825 lie 
and his family came to America, locating in Carroll 
township, Washington Co., Penn. 

William Galbraith, the only living representa- 
tive of his family, was born July 14. 1810, in Ire- 
land, where he attended school and resided until 
fifteen years of age. when he came with his parents 
to America. His education was practically fin 



ished in the old country, as one day's experience 
in an American public school was all he afterward 
received. He learned the boat-building business, 
and was set to work at an early age to assist in 
paving off the debt on the home farm, consisting of 
200 acres. He followed the boat business between 
the years 1827 and 1840. when the hard times of 
1837 brought disaster upon that branch of indue 
try. On A pril 211, 1N35, he was united in marriage 
with Lucinda, daughter of Noah Fry. William 
and Lucinda Galbraith reared the followiug chil- 
dren: Robert, living in Allegheny County, served 
three years in the war of the Rebellion: William. 
who was also a soldier in the war of the Rebellion, 
and served three years under Col. Hambrightin the 
Seventy-ninth Regiment P. V. I., and was killed 
in an accident in Nevada in the silver mines; Noah, 
a farmer in Delaware county, Ohio; Emeline. de- 
ceased wife of Frank Williams, ami Cornelius, a 
resident of Kentucky. The mother died in 1845, 
and for his second choice William Galbraith was 
married November 30, 1848, to Mary, daughter of 
William Hill. The children of this union were 
Samuel, an enterprising farmer; Elizabeth, de- 
ceased wife of Albert Wickerham; John, assisting 
on the home place; Alexander, a farmer of Ea.-t 
Pike Run township: Mary Frances, wife of John 
P. Mosier, of North Strabaue township, this 
county; Thomas, living on the old place; Stephen 
A. B. (deceased), who was a graduate in the class of 
1SS6 at Washington and Jefferson College (died 
while attending the Medical College, Philadelphia. 
December 3. 1SSU) and Ethel, living at home. In 
1829 Mr. Galbraith erected the large barn, which 
is a model of workmanship and convenience, and 
in 1S66 he built the handsome brick residence 
which is his home. He is the inventor of the "steel 
bit," a carpenter's tool, and is a most enterprising 
citizen. 

THE SAMPSON FAMILY, who are among 
the most influential and wealthy citizens of 
Carroll township, were formerly natives of 
Westmoreland county. Penn.. where Will- 
iam Sampson was born iu 1765. He was 
married in that county to Mary Neal, who bore 
him four children. Some time after his marriage 
the family moved to Washington county. Penn.. 
where the father died in 1815. 

James Sampson, son of William and Mary, was 
born February 5, 1806, just above Webster, on 
the Monougahela river, in Westmoreland county, 
Penn., and in 1S40 was married to Mary Grant, a 
native of Washington county. She bore him 
seven children, of whom are named William T. , 
Harvey J., and John G. The mother died in 1888. 
James Sampson carried on a distillery in his early 
years in connection with farming, and he now 
owns 1 ,250 acres of land. He was president of the 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



923 



Bank of Monongahela City for ten years, and is 
oiie of the leading citizens of Washington county. 
John Grant Sampson, a very prominent young 
farmer and wealthy stockman of Carroll township, 
was born February 6, 1852, on the old Sampson 
homestead in this county. He passed his youth 
on the old place, assisting with the usual duties of 
the farm, and on Christmas Day, 1879, linked his 
future with Mary V., daughter of John S. Will- 
iams, of Carroll township. To this union have 
been born live children, viz.: Mary Gertrude, Will 
iam Howard, James Grant, Helen Marguerite, 
and Alice May Virginia. Mr. Sampson owns and 
occupies the old homestead containing 200 acres 
of fertile laud, and is extensively engaged in agri 
cultural pursuits. At one time he sold a herd of 
cattle worth $1,000 to a stranger, who never paid 
for them. He is a Republican in his political 
views, and in religious faith he is an earnest mem 
ber of the Methodist Church. 



JfOSEPH B. DONALDSON is one of the rep 
resentative business men of Canonsburg. 
| He was born December 15, 1840, in Can 
onsburg, forty six years ago, and has been 
behind the counter for over thirty years, 
twenty-four of which he has been in the drug 
business. In 1870 he opened a drug store in 
Canonsburg, and has the largest and must varied 
stock of drugs and fancy goods in the city. 

He has been the architect of his own fortunes 
Beginning with a small stock, his business has 
rapidly increased, his line store now being crowded 
with novelties and the usual paraphernalia of a 
drug store doing a good business. On October 30, 
1872, Mr. Donaldsou was married to Miss Maria 
M. Adams, of Canonsburg, and they are the par- 
ents of the following children: Louis, Mary, Susie 
and Lawrence. In his political preferences Mr. 
Donaldson is a Democrat, and in religion he is a 
Presbyterian. 

OON FAMILY. This is one of the oldest in 
Washington county. Of the early family 
of Boons, John was born in Ireland, where 
he grew to manhood and married. The 
family came to America many years ago, and first 
settled in Dauphin county, Penn. , where John 
Boon engaged in farming and distilling, most of the 
wheat being distilled, as produce brought no profit. 
He finally moved to Canonsburg, Penn., then to 
Chartiers township, where he died. Their chil- 
dren were as follows: Mary, Nancy, William, 
James, Jane, Elizabeth, John, Margaret and 
Joseph; of whom William, James and John were 
soldiers in the war of 1812. In politics Mr. Boon 
was a Whig, and in religion a member of the 
Presbyterian Church at Miller's Run. 




William Boon was born and reared near Wil- 
mington, Del., and was there married to Margaret 
McHargue. They resided in Delaware some time 
after their marriage, then moved to Dauphin 
county, Penn., soon after crossing the mountains 
to Washington county, the journey occupying sev- 
eral days. They finally arrived in Chartiers town- 
ship, and Mr. Boon purchased the tract of land 
now owned by William Russell, which was cleared 
and cultivated by the Boon family. In 1824 they 
removed to Smith township, this county, and a few 
years later settled permanently on the farm in Ce- 
cil township, which is now the property of James 
Boon. William Boon won success by his own un- 
tiring efforts, and was prominently identified with 
the interests of the community, especially those re- 
lating to educational matters. In politics he was 
a Whig and Republican, and held nearly every 
local office; in religious faith he was a member of 
the Presbyterian Church. His children were Levi, 
Alexander, Sarah, John, Margaret, William and 
James. 



f ( S. BLAYNEY. Among the prominent families 

of Washington county, the name of Blayney 

( is identified as representing men of sterling 

' — worth, who lived lives of practical benefit to 

the community in which they resided. 

The earliest representatives of this family in the 
United States, of whom there is any record, were 
Charles Blayney and his parents who emigrated 
From Ireland to this country, when Charles was 
seven years old. They settled in Ohio county, W. 
Va., where Charles passed the rest of his life. He 
was reared to agricultural pursuits, and received 
his education at the subscription schools of the 
period. In early manhood he married Ann Potter, 
by which union were born children as follows: 
William, Vincent M. and Josiah. This wife dying 
in the spring of 1816, soon after the birth of her 
youngest son, Mr. Blayney, for his second help- 

n t, married Nancy Faris, of Ohio county, W. 

Va., and the children of this union were John, 
Elizabeth (wife of William Reed), Susanna (wife 
of John Valentine), Charles, Martha (wife of Rev. 
George McDonald), James, David, Adam, Rev. 
Henry and Rev. J. McCluskey, all now living far 
apart; some near the Atlantic ocean, others on the 
golden shores of the Pacific. The father died 
June 11, 1860, the mother November 10, 1880. 

Vincent M. Blayney, secoud son of Charles and 
Ann (Potter) Blayney, was born January 12, 1815, 
in Ohio county, W. Va. and was reared to man- 
hood on the home farm, receiving at the same 
time a liberal education at the schools of his lo- 
cality. In 1840 he was married to Mrs. Dora 
(Smith) Blaney, to which union one child was 
born — J. S. , the subject of this sketch. The 



924 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



mother died when J. S. was but a week old. The 
father afterward, August 27, 1844, married Mary 
D., daughter of Samuel Donihey, of Buffalo town- 
ship, and by this marriage there were five chil- 
dren, viz. : Aana J. (wife of Dr. D. S. Eagleson), 
Rev. Charles P., Samuel D. (ruliug elder in the 
Upper Buffalo Presbyterian Church), William V. 
and Joseph C. Vincent M. Blayney was called 
from earth March IS, 1887. Politically he was a 
stanch Republican, and at various times held offices 
of trust in his township. He was a warm sup- 
pi uter of the Presbyterian Church, and a devout 
member. In his life vocation — general farming 
and stock raising — he made a well-merited success. 
J. 8. Blayney was born October 10, 1842, in 
Ohio county, VV. Va. On the same day that his 
mother died, his grandmother lost an infant, and 
immediately took the motherless little one to her 
home. Our subject remained in the home of his 
grandmother three years, then went to live with 
his father. In February 1865, he entered Com- 
pany K, Sixty-first Regiment P. V. I., attached to 
the Sixth Army Corps, and took part in the battle 
of Petersburg and other engagements. When the 
war was ended he came home, and engaged in ag- 
ricultural duties. On December 31, 1808, Mr. 
Blayney was married to Nancy M. Caldwell, who 
was born March 13, 1841, in Washington county, 
a daughter of Robert Caldwell. No children have 
blessed their union, but two adopted little ones — 
•James W. and Mary Oliver — have found parental 
love and tender care beneath their roof. Mr. 
Blayuey owns one of the finest farms in Washing- 
ton county, which his father aided him to pur- 
chase. His luxurious home is elaborately fur- 
nished, and lighted and heated with gas, having 
every comfort and convenience. Politically he is 
an active Republican, and a vahied member of the 
party; he has held nearly all the township offices. 
He is connected with the Buffalo Presbyterian 
Church, to which he gives a liberal support, both 
socially and financially. Mr. Blayney is one of 
the leading citizens and most prosperous farmers 
of Hopewell township. 



V AMUEL ADAMS, an energetic citizen of 
Union township, is a native of Allegheny 
il) county, Penn., born at Port Perry February 
^^ 21, 1851. His family have long been resi 
dents of that county, the grandfather, John Adams, 
having settled on the Allegheny river. The chil- 
dren of John Adams were born as follows: Alex- 
ander, Joseph, John, Samuel, Lewis, Mary, and an 
unnamed infant. Of this family Samuel is the 
only living member, and is residing on a farm 
near Wellsville, Ohio; John, Samuel and Lewis 
served in the war between the North and the 
South. 



John Adams, sou of John, was born in 1820, on 
the banks of the Allegheny river where his boy- 
hood was pased. On arriving at an age of matu- 
rity lie was united in marriage with Ellen, daugh- 
ter of Aaron Tharp, a native of eastern Pennsyl- 
vania. Mr. and Mrs. Adams located near Port 
Perry, Allegheny Co., Penn., and he followed 
teaming in that locality; also worked on the railroad, 
and in digging coal. They were the parents of 
seven children, namely: Eva, Samuel, Mary, John, 
Ellen, James D. , and Jennie. 

Samuel Adams, whose name introduces this 
biography, was born at Port Perry, in Allegheny 
county. He was trained to hard manual labor from 
early youth, having worked in the mines during 
boyhood. He was the only support of the family 
while his father was in the army. In 1872 he bought 
a property in Port Perry, which he still owns. In 
1ST I he married Minerva, daughter of Benjamin 
Oilmore, a farmer of Allegheny county, and after 
marriage Mr. Adams continued working for five 
years; then attended the Southwestern State Nor 
mal School, at California, Penn., afterward return 
ing to Port Perry. He conducted a butcher busi 
ness at the last mentioned place for about one 
year, and in 1884 moved to the farm in Washing 
ton county, Penn., which contains 100 acres. In 
1888 he purchased this place, and since that time 
has continued to reside upon it. He is a member 
and trustee of the Methodist Church; in politics he 
is a stanch supporter of the Republican party, and 
has held various local offices in Allegheny county. 
Children were born to Mr. and Mrs.- Adams as fol 
lows: Elizabeth, born November 17, 1874, died 
March 3, 1875; Mary Ellen, deceased in infancy; 
James G. Blaine, born at Port Perry September 
15, 1881, "and is a jewel in the home on the farm, 
being twelve years of age, and bright as a silver 
dollar." 



»r-*JLIJAH T. TOWNSEND. The Townsend 

L^J family, of which this gentlemau is a 

member, are of English descent. Many 

— ' years ago, three brothers, Elijah, John and 

Isaiah Townsend (cousins of Glen Townsend, of 

Quebec), left the shores of the mother country and 

sailed to America. They settled in Egg Harbor 

City, N. J., and Elijah there reared a family of 

children, among whom was one named Daniel. 

Daniel Townsend was born August 14, 1747, in 
Egg Harbor City. N. J., where he grew to man 
hood and engaged in the lumber business. In 17 76 
he entered the Revolutionary war, serving about 
two years, participating in the battles of Trenton. 
I'riiicoton, Brandywine, and Monmouth. In 1779 
he came to Washington county, Penn., bought 400 
acres of land of Joshua Wright, and settled perma 
nently on that tract. He was married to Lydia 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



925 



Sawens, of Massachusetts, who bore him children 
as follows: Catherine (Mrs. John Baird, Beaver 
county), Naomi (Mrs. Uriah Burton), Julia (wife of 
Peters Sharp), Margaret (wife of William Chisler, 
Ohio), Rebecca (Mrs. John Hozer, Mercer county, 
Penn.), Ruth (Mrs. Stephen Higby, Ohio), Lydia 
(wife of Arthur Devore, Ohio), Elijah (a lieutenant 
in the war of 1812, died in 1871), and Joseph, all 
of whom were married, and are now deceased. 
The father was a Democrat in politics; he died 
September 1, 1833. 

Joseph Townsend, son of Daniel and Lydia 
(Sawens) Townsend, was born March 1, 179(>, on 
the old place in Washington county, Penn. He 
lived at home until fifteen years of age, then en- 
tered the war of 1812 as a fifer, but was brought 
borne by his father. A few years later the juvenile 
warrior had so far modified his views as to prefer 
rural life. He became an excellent farmer, and de- 
villed much attention to sheep raising. In early life 
he was united in marriage with Nancy, daughter of 
Cul. William Blackmore, and granddaughter of 
Samuel Blackmore, the latter of whom owned 100 
acres on the site of the present city of Washington. 
The property was leased for ninety-nine years, the 
heirs having never claimed it. William Blackmore, 
son of Samuel, came with his father from Wash- 
ington, D. C, to Washington county, Penn., and 
there reared six children, viz.: Thomas, Charles, 
Nancy (Mrs. Townsend), Eliza, Ellen, and Ara- 
bella, all now deceased but Nancy. To Joseph and 
Nancy (Blackmore) Townsend were born three chil- 
dren, namely: Charles W. , Daniel B. and William 
(deceased in youth). The mother died September 
5, 1833, and in 1834 Joseph Townsend was mar- 
ried to Nancy, daughter of Robert Flack. Her 
father was born in Ireland, and about 1800 emi- 
grated to this country, settling on Chartiers creek, 
in Peters township, Washington Co., Penn. To 
Joseph and Nancy (Flack) Townsend were born 
three children, viz.: Robert (deceased), Elijah T., 
and Margaret J. (Mrs. J. W. Boyer, of Finleyville). 
The father voted with the Democratic party, and in 
religion was a member of the Baptist Church. He 
died on his seventy-fifth birthday, March 1, 1871, 
being followed by his wife in August, 1S74, in her 
seventy -fifth year. 

Elijah T. Townsend, sou of Joseph and Nancy 
(Flack) Townsend, was born December 23,1836, 
mi the farm in Peters township, Washington Co., 
Penn., which is now his home. He attended 
Beaver Academy and Allegheny College, in Mead- 
ville, Penn., and in 1858 was married to Nancy, 
daughter of Samuel Boyer, whose father was James. 
After his marriage Elijah T. Townsend remained 
on the home farm until the death of his father, 
when he took possession of the old place, which 
contains 135 acres of good land. He has been a 
very active member of the Democratic party, and, 



though they were then in the minority, was elected 
in 1878 as county commissioner. He served until 
1882, and in 1884 was nominated by acclamation 
for treasure)' of the county, but was defeated. He 
was a delegate to the State convention in 1882 and 
in 1892. He is a member and trustee of the Peters 
Creek Baptist Church. Mr. and Mrs. Townsend 
are the parents of three children, viz. : Anna M. 
la graduate of Washington Seminary), married to 
David F. Templeton; Robert F. (at home), and 
Joseph B. (member of the sophomore class, Le- 
high University). 



THOMAS GRIMES. Prominently identified 
with the representative and successful farm- 
ers of Independence township stands the 
gentleman whose name introduces this brief 
sketch. He is a son of John Grimes, whose 
lather, William Grimes, came from Ireland and 
settled in Buffalo township, Washington Co., 
Penn. William Grimes was among the earliest of 
pioneer settlers, coming to this county before the 
Indians had abandoned their former hunting 
ground. He cleared a small piece of land, and 
built a rude cabin, to which he soon afterward 
brought a youthful bride, who bore him the follow- 
ing children: John, Jane (wife of Adam Miller), 
Mary (wife of Daniel Lane) and Robert, all of 
whom are deceased, the latter having passed away 
in Donegal township, this county. The parents 
both died on the farm in Buffalo township. 

John Grimes was born, in 1793, on the home 
farm in Buffalo township, where his parents passed 
their wedded lives. He received a meager educa- 
tion at the primitive schools of the place, and 
being obliged to attend irregularly, could not avail 
himself even of the poor opportunities then offered 
the seeker after literary knowledge. In 1813 he 
was united in marriage with Elizabeth Reed, who 
was born in 1792, in the beautiful Shenandoah 
Valley of West Virginia, and afterward came with 
her parents to Washington county, Penn. Of 
their union were born the following children: 
Jane (deceased wife of Thomas Patterson, of Bel- 
mont county, Ohio), Sarah (unmarried, residing in 
Claysville, Donegal township), Robert (farming in 
Des Moines county, Iowa), William (a retired U. 
P. minister), Edward (deceased in Donegal town- 
ship, at an adult age), Samuel (killed while serv- 
ing in the Civil war), John (an agriculturist of 
Buffalo township, this county), and Thomas. John 
Grimes lived on a rented farm during the twelve 
years following his marriage, and then purchased 
the remaining interest in the old home place, where 
the remainder of his life was passed. He was a 
successful agriculturist and a valued citizen. In 
politics he was formerly an Old line Whig, and 
upon the organization of the Republican party 



926 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



became an active worker in its ranks. His wife 
died in 1871, and in 1884 he was laid by her side 
at the good old age of ninety-one years. 

Thomas Grimes, the subject of this sketch, was 
born December 28, 1828, in Buffalo township, this 
county, was reared to farm work from earliest boy- 
hood, and received a common-school education. 
On November 1, 1855, he married Susanna Saw- 
hill, who was born October 10, 1833, daughter of 
William and Jane (Lorimer) Sawhill. Of this 
union the following children have been born: 
Chester, Lorimer (married January 1, 1890, to Miss 
Nettie Farrer, of Independence township), Sarah 
J., Nancy Irene (wife of A. L. Farrar, of Donegal 
township, this county), John Lemon, Mary Udella 
and Ida May. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. 
Grimes located on his father's farm in the eastern 
part of Donegal township, and in 1868 moved to a 
place on Buffalo creek. In 1870 he purchased the 
old Lawrence farm adjoining Mt. Hope church in 
Independence township, where he has since re- 
sided. He devotes considerable attention to stock 
raising, and is a very progressive farmer, his home 
being supplied with modern appliances for con- 
venience and comfort. He has recently erected a 
handsome residence, which enhances both the 
beauty and value of his property. In politics he 
is a stanch Republican, and has been selected to 
till various offices of honor and trust, the duties of 
which he has performed with much credit to him- 
self and the party. He is much esteemed by all 
who know him. He and his wife are members of 
the Mt. Hope United Presbyterian Church. 



J/OHN SCOTT is a worthy representative of 
an old and enterprising family of Washing 
| ton county, noted alike for intelligence and 
integrity. His grandfather, Abraham Scott, 
was born and reared in Maryland, and when 
a young man came to Pittsburgh, Penn., afterward 
settling in Washington county with his brother 
Alexander. He purchased a wild tract of land 
near Raccoon postoffice, Robinson township, this 
county, where his life was passed in agricultural 
pursuits. He was married to Jane, a sister of 
John Finley (the founder of Finleyville), and 
reared the following children: Rachel (Mrs. James 
Russell), Mary (wife of Thomas Fletcher), Ann 
(married to James Kerr), Jane (wife of David 
White), Elizabeth (Mrs. William Scott), Susan 
(married to John McBride), Abraham, Finley, 
Holland and Samuel. The father was a Democrat 
in politics, and in religion a member of the Presby- 
terian Church at Raccoon. 

Finley Scott was born in 1800, in Robinson 
township, this county, and here educated. In 
1822 he was married to Margaret, daughter of 
James Stephenson, of Smith township. The 



young people first settled on a farm in Robinson 
township, this county, remaining there a few years, 
when they rented a neighboring farm, afterward 
purchasing a place in Smith township where they 
resided twenty years, and finally removed to the 
home where they passed the remainder of their 
lives. The children of this couple were Ann, 
Robert K., James, Samuel, Finley, John, Levi, 
Jane F. (Mrs. William Cole) and Margaret (wife 
of Thomas Ackleson). Mr. Scott was the archi- 
tect of his own fortune, and owned 450 acres of 
land at the time of his death, which occurred in 
IST'J. He was a Democrat, and held various 
township offices. In church connection he was 
first a member of the United Presbyterian Church 
at Burgettstowu, afterward uniting with the Asso- 
ciate Reformed Church, in which he was an elder. 
He and his wife are buried in the U. P. cemetery. 

John Scott was born March 13, 1834, in Smith 
township, and passed his boyhood on the home 
farm. On March 3, 1868, he was united in mar- 
riage with Mary Agnes Carlisle, a native of Mt. 
Pleasant township, daughter of John Carlisle, and 
the children born to this union are Holland A. (of 
Burgettstown), John A., Finley I., Samuel M., 
Susie B., Lillie M. and jGracie D. After his mar- 
riage John Scott settled on the farm where he is 
now living, carrying on a general farming and 
slock raising business, and also managing an ex- 
tensive dairy. Mr. Scott is a very successful and 
popular business man, and in politics has always 
been a Democrat; he has tilled various offices, and 
given satisfaction to all parties. He and his wife 
are members of the Presbyterian Church. 



P^ TEPHEN SANDERS. Washington county 
has received a number of her most valued 
citizens from New Jersey, and among the 
most worthy of these is the Sanders family. 

Stephen Sanders, a native of New Jersey, was 
among the first to enter land in Morris township, 
where he died in 1825. His son, Daniel, but a boy 
when his father removed to Pennsylvania, was 
born in 1783. In 1804 he married Catherine liu- 
tan, a daughter of Samuel Rutan, of Morris town- 
ship, and of this union were born the following 
children: Eleanor, Stephen, Phcebe, Sarah, Ann. 
Daniel and Eunice, of whom Eleanor, Sarah and 
Daniel are deceased. 

Stephen Sanders was born in 1809, and reared 
to farm life, which he has always followed. In 

1834 he was married to Catherine , and to 

their union were burn eight children: Simeon, 
Samuel, Jacob, Isaac Newton, Henry, Absalom, 
Aaariah and Sample. Of these, Samuel, Isaac 
Newton, Henry and Absalom are still living, Isaac 
Newton and Henry being prosperous young farmers 
of Morris township. Mrs. Sanders died in 1887, 



3 










2^ \jt/(2<r* 



^t&fe/lsdr 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



929 



and since that time Mr. Sanders has made his 
home with his son Isaac Newton. 

Isaac Newton Sanders married, October 17, 1872, 
Hannah, daughter of Obadiah and Elizabeth Clut- 
ter, and by her had four children: William Emmor, 
Stephen Byard, Estella Belva and Bertha May. 
He is a member of Upper Ten- Mile Church. Henry 
Sanders married Elizabeth Dille, June 19, 1871, 
and of this union have been born five children: 
Hugh (who died at the age of nineteen), and Lil- 
lian, Cora, Grace Edna and Florence, all living. 
Samuel Sanders, of Waynesburgh, Penn., married 
Hattie Halset, and has one child, Katheriue Eliza 
beth Lee. Absalom Sanders, of Clarkestown, Penn., 
was married, in 1880, to Rebecca Huffman, and 
lias no children. Jacob Sanders was married March 
30, 1865, to Mary Axtell, and died March 19, 1869, 
leaving two children: Clarissa and Sarah Ellen. 
Simeon Sanders, during the Civil war, enlisted in 
the Federal army from Iowa, and died of fever at 
Little Rock, Arkansas. 

Obadiah Clutter, father of Mrs. Isaac Newton 
Sanders, was a shoemaker by trade, lived in Amity 
and died there. On January 17, 1836, he married 
Elizabeth Yoder, daughter of George and Sarah 
(Coulter) Yoder. They died in Greene county, 
where Elizabeth was born, near Rice's Landing, 
To Mr. and Mrs. Clutter were born the following 
children: Sarah, wife of John Kelly, of Cumber 
land, Md. ; Pluebe, Mrs. John Gaines, of Amwell 
township; Mary J., in Washington: Eli Webb; 
Genrge Brown; Margaret Ann; Catherine, wife of 
Warren Sanders, Bellaire, Ohio; Hannah (Mrs. 
Isaac Newton Sanders): Samuel Clawson; William 
M. (deceased). Mr. Clutter died in Amity in 1872, 
and Mrs. Clutter has since that time made her 
home with her children. 



< 



IV JfflCHAEL HACKARESS, who is perhaps 
\fy| the oldest man in Washington county, is 
Mi II a son of James Hackaress, who was born 
in Old Virginia, during the eighteenth 
century. The father was born a slave, 
but bought his freedom with money received from 
the sale of coon skins, and a little additional help 
from neighboring planters. After gaining free 
dom, he was married to Miss Catherine McDow, 
who had been freed because her owner had failed 
to register her until the time alloted for that pur- 
pose had expired. After his marriage, Mr. Hack- 
aress moved to Washington county, Penn., where 
he farmed on shares, and worked at various odd 
jobs until his death, which occurred in the year 
1831. 

Michael Hackaress was born on Peters creek, 
Washington county, Penn., February 25, 1792, 
and when his father died moved to the farm on 
which he now lives. At that time the only im- 



provements were a little hut, and a garden patch 
which had been made by some settler who aban- 
doned it to return to a civilized country. Michael 
was first married to Peggy Jenkins, and they had 
ten children, namely: James, Edward, Lydia, 
Maria, Margaret, Eliza, Mary, Michael, an infant 
sun (unnamed) and W. Oasley. Of these chil- 
dren all are now deceased with the exception of 
Eliza. For his second wife Mr. Hackaress was 
united in marriage May 9, 1853, with Miss Sarah 
A. Brown, of Washington, Penn., and their chil- 
dren were Sarah Catherine, Virginia B. , Eva A. 
and an infant. Two of these children are living 
with their father, who, although over a century has 
passed since he entered the world, bears lightly 
the weight of his hundred years, and is still a com- 
paratively strong man. Although he can not 
labor as in his younger years, he eats as heartily 
as though he were yet ill tin- prime of life. Mr. 
Hackaress has been a very successful business 
man, and now owns 21 1 acres of as good land as 
can be found in the township. He is upright and 
honest, and is highly esteemed by his neighbors, 
being one of the few colored men who have taken 
advantage of the opportunities iriven them by the 
Government. In politics In' is a stiff Republican, 
and can boast of having voted for every President 
from Madison to Harrison, and will probably cast 
a ballot at the next. Presidential election. 



"*/ AMUEL STEWART. Among the prosper- 
ous and well-known citizens of Nottingham 
township, this name is prominently identi- 
fied. William Stewart was born, in 1803, 
in Washington county, Penn., and in early life was 
united in marriage with Jeanetta Gardener, who 
was born in 1803, in Ireland, coming to America in 
early youth. Mr. Stewart devoted his time to 
agricultural pursuits, making a specialty of stock 
raising. He was too old to enter the Civil war, 
but was represented on the field by his son Will- 
iam, and took an active part in local affairs. He 
was township supervisor fourteen years, township 
clerk several years, also served on the board of elec 
tion. He died in 1874; his widow is yet living. 

Samuel Stewart was born, in 1842, in Washing 
ton county, Penn., and during his boyhood at- 
tended the schools of this county. In 187(5 he 
married Miss Eleanor A., daughter of William Bark 
ley. Her grandfather, Andrew Barkley, was born 
in 1775, in Ireland, and was married to Elizabeth 
Jolly, who was born in 1757, in Pennsylvania, and 
died in 1846. They were the parents of eight 
children, all of whom are now deceased. 

William Barkley, son of Andrew and Elizabeth 
(Jolly) Barkley, was born in 1800, in Washington 
county, Penn., and passed his youth on the home 
farm now owned by Butler Huggins. In 1822 he 



930 



WASHING TON COUNTY. 






married Elizabeth Ogden, who was born in 1802, 
in this county, daughter of Samuel Ogden. Mr. 
Ogden was born in 1750, and when a young man 
was married to Elizabeth Crouch, who was born in 
1701, in this county. They had ten children. Mr. 
Ogden was a tailor by trade, ami a soldier in the 
Revolutionary war. He died in 1S48, having been 
preceded by his wife in 1880. To the union of 
William and Elizabeth (Ogden) Barkley ten chil- 
dren were born, of whom rive are yet living, 
namely. Elizabeth, Sarah J., Eleanor A. (Mrs. 
Stewart), William and Margaret. Mr. Barkley 
owned 148 acres of land, all under cultivation, and 
conducted an extensive sheep and other stock farm. 
He was a very prominent man in the politics of 
Washington county, having served in nearly all 
the township offices, and was collector several 
years. 

To the union of Samuel and Eleanor A. (Bark- 
ley) Stewart a son and daughter have been born: 
Boyd T. and Jennie L. The farm of 127 acres of 
fertile, well-cultivated land is owned by Samuel 
and his brother William's children jointly. Sam 
uel Stewart is an enterprising citizen, and has filled 
almost every office in Nottingham township. He 
gave among the lirst $100 subscribed to the build- 
ing of a railroad in Nottingham township. 



J JONATHAN CAESBER, JR., was born Septem- 
ber 17, 1821, in North Strabane township, this 
) county, a grandson of Jonathan Caesber who 
was born in 1750, in the State of Delaware. 
In 1774 the grandfather came to Washington 
county, Penn., and here purchased a farm where 
he died in 1839. In the warof 1812 he furnished 
the United Slates Government with the last, pack 
horses used at that time. In religion he was a 
Methodist. 

John Caesber (son of Jonathan the pioneer) was 
born, in 1 704, in Nottingham township, this county. 
He was a physician, devoting his entire life to 
that profession. In October, 1820, he was united 
in marriage with Hannah Holland, who was born 
in Allegheny county, Penn., in 1800, and five chil- 
dren were born to them, of whom two are yet liv- 
ing: John and Jonathan. The father died Feb- 
ruary '■',, L833, and in 1867 Mrs. Caesber entered 
the ''valley of the shadow." 

Jonathan Caesber, Jr., attended school in the 
home district, and was but twelve years of age when 
his father died. The fatherless boy, being thus early 
thrown on his own resources, worked on a farm 
four or five years, and completed his education. 
At the age of seventeen he began teaching a sub 
scription school, following that vocation eighteen 
years; at the same time he owned a store and shoe 
shop. He finally learned the shoemaking business, 
to which he has devoted his later years On May 



HO, 1844, he married Elizabeth Yant (who was 
born in 1822 in this county), and they have had 
six children, three of whom are deceased. Those 
yet living are Carrie H., Elizabeth B. and Fred- 
erick Y. Caesber. In 1888 Mr. Caesber was ap- 
pointed postmaster at Mnnntown, and served in that 
office until 1S70, when he opened a shoe store and 
boarding house in Washington borough. In 1883 
he returned to his present home, consisting of four 
acres of excellent land, situated near the depot of 
the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, and affording him 
a comfortable income. In politics he has always 
been a Democrat, and has served several times as 
school director and four terms as justice of the 
peace, which office he is yet holding. He was too 
old to enter the Civil war, but has ever been iden 
tiffed with the best interests of the county. He is 
a member of the Presbyterian Church. 




ILLIAM B. SUMNY. The family of 
which the subject of this memoir is a 
prominent member have long been resi 
dents of Pennsylvania. Isaac Sumny, 
father of William B. , first saw the light 
July 5, 1770, the day after the old Liberty Bell had 
proclaimed the birth of our infant nation. He 
was born in Westmoreland county, Penn., and in 
1798 was united in marriage with Mary Turney 
(who was also born in 1776), and nine children 
were born to their union, of whom three sons are 
yet living. The father followed the trade of pot 
ter all his life. 

William B. Sumny was born August 14, 1805, 
on the home place in Washington county, Penn., 
and passed his boyhood in attending the schools of 
the county. On November 14. 1829, he was mar 
ried to Ruth Gamble, a native of this county, born 
inlSIO. To this union one son and nine daugh- 
ters were born, namely: Mary (Mrs. Mahood), re- 
siding at Melvin, Ford Co., 111.; Elizabeth (wife of 
William Harbison), at Glade Mills, Butler Co., 
Penn. ; Esther, still living with her father; Sarah 
(Mrs. Coneby), at Brownsdale, Butler Co., Penn.; 
Mrs. Hannah Sumny, at Beaver City, Furnas 
Co., Neb. ; Emma (Mrs. Morrison), at McKeesport, 
Allegheny Co., Penn.; William (deceased); Nancy 
(deceased); Harriet (wife of Dr. Murray), at Am 
ity, Washington Co. , Perm., and Angelina (Mrs. 
Hamilton), at Thomas, Washington Co., Penn. 
The mother died December 21, 1891. 

Prior to his marriage Mr. Sumny worked with his 
father at the potter's trade, ami then after that 
event he bought fifty acres of land, to which he 
now devotes his attention. Politically he is an ad- 
herent of Democratic principles, and in religious 
faith he and his family are members of the Pres 
byterian Chinch 



washing ton covn ty. 



931 



DAVID W. GAULT. The prominent and 
] influential family, of which the subject of 
' this sketch is a worthy member, are repre- 
sentative citizens of Nottingham township. 

Alexander Gault was born in 1797, on a farm in 
Washington county, Penn., where his youth was 
passed in the usual duties of agricultural life. On 
December 8, 1825, he was united in marriage with 
Miss Mary Wilson, who bore him live children, 
namely: James, Edith, Sarah, John W. (who en- 
listed in Company K, P. V. Cavalry, and died in 
the service December 7, 186'2) and Alexander (de 
ceased). The mother died soon after the birth of 
her youngest son, and Mr. Gault was afterward 
married to Jane Flack, who was born in 1807. 
The children of this marriage were as follows: 
Robert, Mary J. and Addie, the last named being 
the only one yet living. The father owned about 
150 acres of land. He died in 1872; the mother 
on February 15, 1887. 

James Gault, son of Alexander and Mary (Wil- 
son) Gault, was born in 1826, in Washington county, 
Penn., where his youth was passed. In 1853 he 
married Maria Sumney, a native of Nottingham 
township, this county, who was born in 1832, and 
has always resided in the vicinity of her birthplace. 
Pour sons and two daughters have been born to 
this marriage as follows: Mary, David W., Alex- 
ander, John (deceased), Ettie and William. Mr. 
Gault has, with the exception of short intervals, 
always resided in Nottingham township, and has 
held almost every local office. He owns twenty - 
tive acres of fertile land, and makes a specialty of 
fruit raising. 

David W. Gault was born April 11, 1856, in 
Washington county, Penn. He completed his educa- 
tion at Pittsburgh, Penn., and received a diploma 
from Duff's Commercial College. After leaving 
school he embarked in a sawmill and lumber 
business, and also managed a farm of 130 acres. 
On September 4, 1884, he was united in marriage 
with Mary, daughter of Martin Kammerer, a son 
of John Kammerer, who was born, in 1793, in 
Germany, and was educated in the schools of his 
native land. In 1820 her grandfather was mar- 
ried to Margaret Rigar, who was born in 1800 in 
Germany, and, bidding farewell to his young wife 
for a time, sailed for America in 1821. After 
finding a suitable location for a home, he sent for 
Mrs. Kammerer the next year, and settled in Wash 
ington county, Penn., where he followed the busi- 
ness of a millwright and miller. He then worked 
two years as a carpenter, and afterward engaged 
in a general mercantile business. He also leased, 
of one Thomas Officer, eighty acres of land on the 
present site of Kammerer village, which laud he 
purchased in 1881, and erected thereon a dwelling 
and store room. He then built a tavern, and in 
1845 erected a saw and grist mill, which was 



burned September 22, L850, but was rebuilt the 
following year. Five children were born to his 
first marriage, namely: Mary Ann, born Decem- 
ber 16. 1821; Barbara, born August 11, 1822; 
Catherine, born May 20, 1N25; John, born April 
1, 1827; and Martin, born April 14, 1829, all now 
deceased. The mother of this family died in Feb- 
ruary, 1830, and on July 21, 1830, Mr. Kammerer 
married Elizabeth Bender, a native of Germany, 
and the following children came to this union: 
Jonathan, born July 31, 1831; Joseph, born May 
20, 1835; Elizabeth, born February 28, 1837; 
Jacob, born November 22, 183S; William S.. born 
February 23, 1843 (on the Board of Trade in Chi 
cago), married to a daughter of Dr. Emery, of 
Dnnningsville, Va. ; and Franklin G., born Feb 
ruary 24, 1845 (with William S., Room No. 35, 
Board of Trade, Chicago, known as the Kammerer 
Co., brokers), married to a daughter of Dr. Hild 
reth, of Wheeling, W. Va. Of this family Jacob 
died July 27, 1839, and Jonathan died October 
20, 1887. The mother died May 18, 1859, having 
been preceded by the father July 24. 1856. He 
served in many township offices. 

Martin Kammerer was born on the home place, 
and in early life was married to Catherine Sumney, 
who was born in 1829. They had three children: 
Mary (Mrs. David Gault), Flora (wife of Robert 
McNary) and Ella (married to William McGregor). 
Mr. Kammerer was a miller and distiller, and un- 
til shortly before his death was a partner in busi- 
ness with his brother Joseph. The latter years of 
his life were spent on the farm, where he died June 
25, 1890, having been preceded by his wife June 4, 
of the same year. 

Three children have brightened the wedded life 
of David and Mary (Kammerer) Gault, namely: 
Donald, Charles and Frank. Mr. Gault has filled 
many local offices in Nottingham township, and is 
a representative farmer. 



IiOSEPH S. STOCKDALE, employed by the 
. I Stockdale and Allen Coal Companies, includ- 
l(l) ing the Acme and Allen mines, has been con 
nected with this firm at Stockdale since 1888. 
The town of Stockdale was begun in 1883, and in 
1885 mines were opened on the Stockdale farm. 

He is a grandson of Thomas Stockdale, who was 
born in Montgomery county, Penn., of English 
Quaker parents, and was there married to a lady 
who died leaving three sons, William, Thomas and 
John. In 1781, after the death of the wife and 
mother, the remainder of the family came to Wash 
ington county, Penn. He bought 100 acres of 
land, to which he afterward added another hundred 
acres, and was married in this county to his second 
wife. Amy Allen, who bore him children as follows: 
Joseph, Robert, Deborah, Allen and Hannah. 



932 



WASHING TON Col X T > '. 



Jf AMES B. VAN DYKE. The Van Dyke fam- 
ily are of Holland origin, their name signify - 
| ing "beyond the dyke." Many years ago 
three brothers of the family, John, James 
and William, sailed from Holland to Amer- 
ica, first locating in New Jersey, where John was 
married to a native of that State, his brothers hav- 
ing previously settled in Philadelphia county, 
Penn. In 1800 John Van Dyke moved with his 
family to an unimproved farm near Liudley's Mills, 
Morris township, Washington Co , Penn., remain- 
ing there but one year. He then returned to New 
Jersey, where he died, having left his family on 
the pioneer farm in Pennsylvania. He was twice 
married, and to the lirst union were born two chil 
dren, John and Hannah. The children of his sec 
mid marriage were Wright, Catherine, Nancy and 
Rena. The father was a Whig in political opinion, 
in religion a member of the Presbyterian Church. 

Wright Van Dyke was born December 15, 171*9, 
on the home farm in New Jersey, and was reared 
and educated in the subscription schools of Wash 
ington county, Penn. In early manhood he mar 
ried Rebecca, daughter of James Pane, a native of 
Amwell township, this county, and she bore him 
three children, viz. : Sarah, wife of Nathan Veatch; 
Elizabeth, deceased, and James B. Mr. and Mrs. 
Van Dyke passed their wedded life in Amwell 
township, where he died in 1S47, followed by his 
wife in 1856. They were members of the Baptist 
Church, and in politics he affiliated with the Whig 
party. 



Both the parents of this family died on the farm in 
Washington county. 

Robert Stockdale, father of subject, was born 
April 19, 1801, on the home place in Allen town- 
ship, Washington county, and there received a 
subscription-school education. On November 6, 
1825, he was united in marriage with Deborah Al- 
len, a native of this county, and daughter of Jo- 
seph Allen. The young couple settled on the old 
farm, where the following children were born and 
reared: William, married to Rebecca Ailes, now 
living in Oregon; Amy, deceased at the age of six 
years; Elizabeth, widow of William Sprowls, West 
Pinley township; Allen; Robert M.; Deborah E. ; 
Sarah Mary, and Hannah Amy, wife of I. K. Jack 
man, Los Angeles, Cal. The mother of this fam- 
ily died March 13, 1850, and the father was then 
married to Dorcas Price, a native of Westmoreland 
county, Penn., who is yet living on the homestead. 
They were the parents of three children, namely : 
Joseph Snyder, Cyrus Field (living in Stockdale). 
and Martin J. (deceased). The father was a Deiu 
ocrat in politics, and in religious faith was a mem- 
ber of the Church of Christ at Fayette City, Penn. 
Ho died December 15, 1878. 



James B. Van Dyke was born January 20, 1834, 
on the home place in Amwell township, Wash 
ington Co., Penn. On September 18, 1855, he 
was married to Mary J., daughter of Rev. John 
Thomas, of Morris township. In 1862 he enlisted 
in Company D, One Hundred and Fortieth Regi- 
ment P. V. I., serving until 1864. At the battle 
of Chancel lorsville he was shot under the right 
arm (the ball lodging back of his left lung, where 
it still remains), and, being paralyzed, was re- 
ported dead. He was taken from the field to the 
general hospital, then sent to Washington, return 
ing home as soon as he was able. Before his fur 
lough had expired he returned to follow the fort 
une8 of his regiment, with which he remained un- 
til his health failed; in 1803 he was couunissioned 
first lieutenant of his company. 

After returning from the war Lieut. Van Dyke 
followed carpentering and building about three 
years, then opened a grain anil feed store at Wash- 
ington. He afterward conducted a grocery at 
Brownsville, Fayette county, and in 1875 came to 
California, to fill the position of steward of the 
Southwestern State Normal School. In 1880 he 
opened a general store, which was supplanted in 
1SS'_! by the dry-goods establishment he is now con- 
ducting. In political opinion Mr. Van Dyke was 
originally a Know-Nothing, but has been a Repub- 
lican since the organization of that party. He is 
president of the California Glass Company, also 
deals in real estate. He and his wife are members 
of the Baptist Church, of which he is a deacon. 
They are the parents of four children, viz. : John 
W., George M. , William S., and Mary Catherine 
(deceased). The three sons are all graduates of the 
State Normal College. George M. is also a grad 
uate of Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, 
and is now practicing his profession at West New 
ton, Penn.; William S. is cashier of M. M. Dick's 
bank, West Newton, Penn., burgess of the town, 
also one of the principal stockholders and treas- 
urer of the West Newton Wall Paper Company; 
John W. remains at home with his parents, and as- 
sists his father in the management of his business; 
William S. married Miss Carrie Taylor, of West 
Newton, who has borne him one child. Mildred. 



V AMUEL HINDMAN. The ancestors of this 
well-known gentleman were born in a land 
of song and story, where wild legends were 
told the little ones as they sat by the fire 
side or wandered amid the romantic scenery of 
Wales. But sometimes even tho legends were for 
gotten, and tales of a far off land, whose wealth 
and grandeur surpassed their wildest dreams, were 
told the children. Eagerly the people listened 
for tidings of those daring men who had crossed 
the ocean, and proved " truth stranger than tic- 




^yOkyVVtOJ^ ^U C4 U&OtAA^lyPx^ 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



935 



tion." Many a bold Welshman then sought a home 
in the New World, and among their number sailed 
Samuel Hindman with his family.' They landed 
safely in America, and located in the State of 
Maryland. Mr. Hindman was twice married, and 
three children were born to him, among whom a 
son, John, is named. 

John Hindman was born in 1709, near Port De 
posit, in Maryland. He was there married to Sarah 
Patten and in 1796 came to Pennsylvania, the 
journey being made in a six -horse wagon, which 
carried all their personal possessions. They were 
accompanied by William Patten and his wife, the 
former of whom was a brother of Mrs. Hindman. 
They first made a halt in Finilley township, Alle 
gheny county, and thence moved to Union town- 
ship, this county, where Mr. Hindman, in 1798, 
bought seventy-two acres of one Thomas Gannon, 
and afterward eighty -four acres of Nathan Dailey, 
which became the home of his descendants. It 
was then in an uncultivated state, only twenty 
acres having been cleared, and many improvements 
were made by Mr. Hindman. In politics he was 
actively identified with the Whig party, and in 
religion he was a member of the Presbyterian 
Church at Mingo. He died on the farm in 1851, 
being followed in 1852 by his wife, who had borne 
him the following children: Mary (wife of Robert 
Campbell), William (married to Sarah Campbell, 
of Union township), Sarah (wife of John Storer, of 
Allegheny county), Robert (married to Hannah 
Pollock, also of Allegheny county), Martha (Mrs. 
William Morrow), John (deceased at the age of 
seventeen years), Eliza (wife of James Morgan), 
Jane (Mrs. Joseph S. Gaston) and Samuel. 

Samuel Hindman was born August 25, 1812, in 
Union township, Washington Co., Penu. , and re- 
ceived his education at the subscription school on 
the Pollock farm. On May 9, 1839, he married 
Martha J., daughter of Joseph Hull, of Allegheny 
county, and they resided on the home place in 
Union township until 1864, when they came to 
their present home in Gastonville. Politically 
Mr. Hindman was a Whig and Republican, but is 
now voting with the Prohibition party, having al- 
ways supported the temperance cause. In religion 
he has been an elder of the Mingo Presbyterian 
Church for thirty years. Mrs. Hindman died in 
September, 1889, leaving no children; but they 
had adopted and reared two little ones, one of 
whom, Virginia B., is married to Harry W. Mil- 
linger, of Finleyville. 



IfSAAC C. MOUNTS. This highly esteemed 
and prominent young citizen of Buffalo town- 
ship, of which he is a native, was born May 31, 
1855, a son of William H and Mary (Malone) 
Mounts, the latter of whom was a daughter of 



David Malone. William H. Mounts was born in 
Rankiutown (now a part of Washington), this 
county, June 19, 1800, and was brought up to 
practical farm life from his earliest boyhood. The 
school he attended during a few winter weeks in 
each year was held in a deserted log cabin, through 
which the winter wind gleefully whistled. In Oc- 
tober, 1828, Mr. Mounts was married to Mary Ma- 
lone, whose family were also old settlers, and after 
marriage the young couple made their home in 
Franklin township until 1852, in which year they 
removed to Buffalo township, where Mrs. Mounts 
died September 7, 1882, and Mr. Mounts June 22, 
1885. He was emphatically a self made man, and 
at the time of his death owned a large farm. Po- 
litically he was first a Whig, afterward a Repub- 
lican, and although always taking a deep interest 
in the affairs of his party, would never accept 
office. Among the earliest members of East Buf- 
falo Presbyterian Church, he was also one of its 
leading and most substantial supporters. The 
children born to this honored pioneer were: Sarah 
Jane (deceased), William (in Buffalo township), 
Adam (in Franklin township), Richard (in Buffalo 
township), Mary A. (deceased wife of Wishart 
Houston), Margaret (Mrs. Abraham Huston), 
Elizabeth (Mrs. Charles Kelly), Martha (wife of 
Samuel Parker, of Washington borough), Thomas 
J. (in Buffalo township), Theodore (deceased) and 
Isaac C. 

Isaac C. Mounts was reared to farm life at the 
parental home, and educated at the common 
schools of the district. He was married Decem- 
ber 25, 1879, to Laura V. , daughter of George 
Coogle. the result of which uuion are four chil 
dren. The parents are members of the United 
Presbyterian Church at East Buffalo, and in poli- 
tics Mr. Mounts is a Republican, though not a 
strong partisan. He is a progressive farmer, and 
in connection with general agriculture is actively 
interested in stook raising. 



/HE ARMOR FAMILY. William Armor, 
the pioneer of the Armor family, was a na- 
tive of Scotland, where his youth and early 
manhood were passed. Many years ago he 
came with his family to America, locating 
in York county, Penn. , where he followed agricult- 
• ural pursuits. In religious faith he was a Pres- 
byterian. 

Thomas Armor, a son of this pioneer, came at 
an early age to what is now Washington county, 
Penn., and settled on a 400- acre tract on Rac- 
coon creek, Hanover township. The patent for 
this land was applied for September 15, 1784. 
He also, at the same time, applied for the adjoin 
ing tract, of the same amount, in the name of his 
brother, who died after the confirmation of the 



936 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



application. Therefore, Thomas held and occupied 

both tracts, or 800 acres in all. He was a mem- 
ber of the Cross-roads Presbyterian Church (now 

Florence), and assisted in the organization of 
Hopewell Church, of which he became one of the 
first three elders. In politics he was a Democrat. 
He married Jennie Moore, and to them were born 
four sons and two daughters, who all married and 
-ei tied on his land, which he divided among them 
before his death in 1826. 

Nancy married Benjamin Bilbbitt — to them were 
born six children. William married Nancy Mc 
Clelland — to them were born seven children. John 
married Matilda Glasgow — to them were born five 
children. John, with his family, moved to Holmes 
county, Ohio, about the year 1830. Mary married 
James Thompson, to whom were born eight chil 
dren. They moved to Armstrong county, Pen n. 
about the year 1837. Thomas married Hannah 
Crooks, and to them were born four children. 
James, the youngest, was born April 17, 1797. 
He occupied the homestead. His first wife was 
Margaret AVilson; to them were born four children. 
These children were as follows: John, who mar 
ried Maria Culley, in March, 1850; Thomas and 
Wilson, deceased; Margaret Ann, married to James 
Donaldson, in March, 1852. Some time after the 
death of his first wife, or in December, 1832, Mr. 
Armor married Nancy, daughter of Alexander 
McCandless (who was of Scotch Irish descent), 
of Allegheny county, Penn., and to them were 
born four sons and one daughter. James Armor 
was an elder in the Hopewell Presbyterian Church 
for a number of years. In politics he was a Dem- 
ocrat-until his death, February 7, 1871. He was 
followed to the grave by his widow, December 10, 
1880. 

A. M. Armok was born October 30, 1833; mar 
iied Anna M., daughter of John Moreland, of 
Fayette county, Penn., October 26, 1865, who 
died March 17, 18S0. For his second wife he 
married Mrs. Rebecca Wilson McCluskey (who 
had one daughter), June 15, 1882. In religion he 
was a Presbyterian, an elder in Hopewell Church, 
and afterward in the Hebron Church — a branch 
of the Hopewell Church. Politically he was a. 
Democrat. He moved to Burgettstown, Penn., in 
November, 1892, where he now resides. 

J. Ray Armor was born October 8,1835; married 
Ella C, daughter of Robert Walker, of Washington 
county, Penn., April 3, 1878, who died June 12, 
1885. He moved to Burgettstown in June, 1886, 
and engaged in the lumber business with J. P. 
and W. B. Linn — the firm name being Armor, 
Linn & Co. He is a Presbyterian in religion, 
and a Democrat in politics. 

W. Sample was born April 24, 1838; married 
Sarah Moreland in June. 1864. To this union 



were born six children. He is a Presbyterian in 
religion, and a Democrat in politics. 

Jane E. was born January 26, 1841; married 
Samuel Witherspoon. December 9, 1863. To this 
union were born eight children. She was for- 
nierlv a Presbyterian, but now is a member of the 
United Presbyterian Church. 

George P., born September 4, 1843, died Au- 
gust 'J, 1S72. James Armor's sons were a family 
of farmers. They still retain a large portion of 
the original 800 acres. W. Sample occupies the 
homestead, and likely to be followed by his sons, 
which will make the fourth generation of the 
family in occupancy. 



THOMAS McGOWAN, superintendent of re- 
pairs of the Monongahela river slackwater 
improvement, a position he has held forty- 
nine years, is a son of John and Margaret 
(McGill) McGowan, natives of County Down, 
Ireland. 

About the year 1831 they immigrated to Anier 
ica, settling on a farm in Fallowfield township. 
Washington Co., Penn., where the father followed 
milling and general farming. He took an active 
interest in the workings of the Whigparty. They 
died several years ago, leaving children as follows: 
Martha, wife of Howard Kerr, of Foxburgh, Penn. ; 
Thomas, whose name opens this sketch ; Sarah 
Jane, living at Lock No. 4; John, who died at Lock 
No. 4, some years ago, and Nancy E., widow of 
Alfred Van Horn, of Lock No. 4. 

Thomas McGowan was born in 1826, in County 
Down, Ireland, coming to America with his par- 
ents when but a child. He was educated in the 
district schools of Fallowfield township, and in 
April, 1844. he began life as a laborer on the Mo- 
nongahela river, since when he has mastered all the 
details of navigation. He was superintendent of 
Lock No. 4 and adjoining places for some time, 
being rapidly promoted from one position to an- 
other. For over thirty years he has been superin- 
tendent of repairs, which business ealls him to all 
points between Pittsburgh and Geneva, Penn. 
On November 18, 1852, he was married to Sarah 
A., daughter of Abram Fry and granddaughter of 
Samuel Fry. The Fry family are numbered 
with the earliest and most prominent citizens of 
Washington county. The first of the name to set- 
tle in Pennsylvania was one Samuel Fry, who 
was born in 1749. in Virginia, and was there mar 
ried to Christina Speers, also a native of Virginia, 
born in 1752. They came overland to Washing- 
ton county, Penn., in a very early day, and July 
19, 1792, took a "tomahawk right" for a large 
tract of land in Fallowfield township. He was a 
famous hunter, and also worked on his farm. 



WASH I. \ (HON COUNTY. 



937 



remaining in the fort at night for protection from 
the Indians. He died in 1814, being followed by 
his wife November 9, 1841. 

Abraham Fry, son of Samuel and Christina 
(Speers) Fry, was born in 1792, on the home 
farm in Fallowfield township, Washington Co., 
Penn. He received a subscription -school educa- 
tion, and in early life was married to Isabella 
Ringland, a native of Washington county. She 
bore him eleven children, namely: Samuel, living 
in Allen township, Washington county; John, also 
living in Allen township; Christina (Mrs. Abraham 
Colvin), of Fallowfield township; Abraham, who 
entered the U. S. service in Washington county, 
and is now living near Nashville, Tenn.; Henry, a 
resident of Sumner county, Tenn., on the Cum 
berland river; Noah, who died in Fallowfield 
township; Sarah, wife of Thomas McGowan; Jack- 
son, living in Cowley county, Kans. (he enlisted 
in the Civil war, was taken prisoner, and was 
confined in Andersonville prison eleven months); 
Clarissa, who married Alexander Alman, and died 
in East Pike Run township; Smith, who owns the 
Fry homestead, and Isabella, wife of Elgy T. Van- 
Voorhis, of Kansas City, Mo. After their mar- 
riage Abraham and Isabella Fry settled on the 
upper part of the old homestead in Fallowfield 
township. He was actively interested in public mat 
ters, and first affiliated with the Democratic party, 
then became a Whig and later a Republican. He 
died December 11, 1866. followed by his widow 
April 2, 1881, she having lived to see her youngest 
daughter the mother of twelve children. Both 
parents were members of the Disciple Church. 

Thomas and Sarah A. McGowan settled on a 
home in the village of Lock No. 4. He has erect- 
ed an elegaut residence, surrounded by beautiful 
grounds, and among other improvements a hand- 
some greenhouse adorns the place. In political 
opinion he is a member of the Republican party. 
In religion Mrs. McGowan is a member of the 
Disciple Church. They are the parents of three 
children, namely: J. K. M., married, and now has 
charge of Lock No. 4; Isabelle, wife of T. J. Allen, 
civil engineer, of Lock No. 4; and AbramF. , mar 
ried and residing at the same place. Mr. McGowan 
is one of the oldest navigators in Washington 
county, aud is an expert in his vocation. 



THEODORE J. ALLEN is a son of David B. 
H. Allen, a native of Allen township, Wash- 
ington Co., Penn., who when a young man 
was married to Martina Springer, of Fayette 
county, Penn. They became the parents of 
twelve children, of whom Theodore J. is the fourth 
in order of birth. The father followed farming 
and land surveying all his life, and died in 1882; 
the mother is yet living on the old place. 



Theodore J. Allen was born July 28, 18T>4, in 
Westmoreland county, Penn., where his early edu 
cation was obtained. He then entered the South 
western State Normal School, at California, Penn , 
and, afterward, Bethany College, in West Virginia, 
graduating from the civil engineering department 
in 1875. He has since followed the profession of 
civil engineer, at the same time being engaged in 
business with a coal company, as well as in farming. 

On March 22, 1877, he married Isabelle, daugh- 
ter of Maj. Thomas McGowan, a son of John and 
Margaret (McGill) McGowan, natives of County 
Down, Ireland, who, about 1831, immigrated to 
America, settling permanently on a farm in Fal- 
lowfield township, Washington Co., Penn , where 
Mr. McGowan followed milling and general farm- 
ing; he took an active interest in the politics of the 
Whig party. John and Margaret McGowan died 
several years ago, leaving children as follows: 
Martha, wife of Howard Kerr, of Foxburgh, Penn. ; 
Thomas; Sarah Jane, living at Lock No. 4; John. 
who died at Lock No. 4, some years ago; and 
Nancy E. , living at Lock No 4, widow of Alfred 
Vanhorn. 

Thomas McGowan was born in 1826, in County 
Down, Ireland, and, coming to Washington county 
with his parents when but a child, was educated 
in the district schools in Fallowfield township. In 
April, 1844, he began life as a laborer on the Mon 
gahela river, and since that time has mastered all 
the details of navigation. He was superintendent, 
of Lock No. 4 and adjoining places for some time, 
being rapidly promoted from one position to 
another. For over thirty years he has been 
superintendent of repairs, which business calls him 
to all points between Pittsburgh and Geneva, Penn. 
On November 18, 1852, Major McGowan was mar- 
ried to Sarah A., daughter of Abram and Isabella 
Fry. Mr. and Mrs. McGowan settled on a home 
in the village of Lock No. 4, where he has erected 
an elegant residence, surrounded by beautiful 
grounds, and among other improvements, a hand 
some greenhouse adorns the place. In political 
opinion he is a member of the Republican party, 
and in religion Mrs. McGowan is a member of the 
Disciple Church. They are the parents of three 
children, namely: J. K. M., married, and now in 
charge of Lock No. 4; Isabelle, wife of T. J. Allen; 
and Abram F., married and residing at Lock No. 
4. Major McGowan is one of the oldest navigators 
in Washington county,' and is an expert in his 
vocation. 

To the union of Theodore J. and Isabelle (Mc- 
Gowan) Allen four children have been born, 
namely: Edwin R., Eva W., Mable N., and Donald 
M. Mr. Allen has been an extensive traveler, hav- 
ing visited about twenty of the States in the Union 
and Mexico, passing one year in Los Angeles, Cal. , 



passing oneyt 
as an engineer. He has been 



a resident of Lock 



938 



UW.SIIJNUTOX COI'NTY. 



No. 4, Washington Co., Penn., for twelve yearn. He 
lias served as justice of the peace, school director 
ami postmaster, at Lock No. 4. 




It BHAHAM HAIR. The life of this gentle 
1\ man bears testimony, in language not to be 
^\ misunderstood, to what it is possible for man. 
-* with willing heart and hands, to accomplish. 
Few people, if any, in Washington county, 
deserve as much credit for advancement in life, 
commencing with dark days of poverty and adver- 
sity, and rising solely by their own unaided efforts 
to prominence and opulence, as does the subject 
of this memoir. 

Abraham Hair was born April 23, 1823, in Buf- 
falo township, Washington Co. , Penn. When but 
a young boy he was indentured to one William 
Wilson, to learn the trade of spinning-wheel maker, 
and with him he remained until sixteen years of 
age, when he commenced working at various occu- 
pations, including carpentering, civil engineering, 
etc., and was for a time interested in the oil busi- 
ness. On May 19, 1858, he was united in mar- 
riage with Caroline Forsythe, who was born De- 
cember 29, IS 10. a daughter of Job Forsythe, of 
Parkersburgh, W. Va., and died April 15, 1800. 
For his second wife Mr. Hair wedded Margaret 
Wright, a native of Fayette county, Penn., born 
March 22, 1838, a daughter of Abraham Wright, 
of Point Marion, Penn., near the mouth of Cheat 
river, and to this union the following children were 
burn: Caroline V. , now Mrs. Isaac Hodgens. of 
Buffalo township; Laura L.,now Mrs. R. W. Dodd, 
of Donegal township; Kate, wife of William Burig, 
of West Finley township; Adocia, living at home, 
and Maggie, who died in infancy. The mother of 
this family was called from earth January 27, 1S73. 
After his first marriage Mr. Hair took up his 
residence in Taylorstown, Penn., where he was en- 
gaged in the milling business for some consider- 
able time, then moved to California, same State. 
whore he worked in a boat yard, after which he 
was in the oil business on Dunkards creek, Penn., 
whence he proceeded to Clay township,Monouga- 
lia Co., W. Va., and there followed farming for 
sometime. In 1872 he purchased the Shepherd 
L. Guy farm, iu Donegal township, situated at 
the confluence of the Little and Big Buffalo creeks. 
Here he has since been engaged iu general farm 
ing. including stock dealing to a considerable ex- 
tent. He has lately erected an improved roller 
mill at a great outlay, thereby filling a long-felt 
want in his neighborhood, and which in itself is a 
practical illustration of his enterprise and pro- 
gressiveuess, and which is of invaluable service to 
the farming community; anil in addition to all 
these industries he owns 3-46 acres of choice faun 



land, all the results of hard work, steadfast pur- 
pose, sound judgment and sterling integrity. Mr. 
Hair has no time to devote from his busy life to 
politics, but he invariably votes the straight Dem 
ocratic ticket. 



rtpHEOPHILUS HAWKINS, a prosperous 
farmer of West Pike Run township, a native 
of the same, was born February 1, 1852, 
II on the home farm. He is a son of Elijah 
v and Elizabeth Hawkins, the latter of whom 
died February 21, 1889, aged seventy years. He re 
ceived a liberal education at the common schools of 
his district, and was reared from boyhood to agri 
cultural pursuits. On September 9, 1880, he was 
united in marriage with Arminda Deems, who was 
born May 30, 1861, a daughter of Harrison and 
Catherine (Horn) Deems, pioneer settlers of this 
county. Mr. and Mrs. Deems were the parents of 
the following children: Ella, wife of Thomas 
Dague, a farmer of West Bethlehem to wh ship; 
Belle, married to John Frederick, an agriculturist 
of West Pike Run township; Lizzie, wife of Stanton 
Lutes, a blacksmith of West Pike Run township; 
Arminda, Mrs. Hawkins; and Jennie, who is living 
at home. 

Mr. and Mrs. Hawkins live with his aged father 
on the old homestead in West Pike Run township. 
The farm comprises ninety-five well cultivated acres, 
upon which a comfortable stone residence, a com 
modious baru, and out buildings have been Erected. 
Our subject and wife have two children, viz. : 
Ernest R., born September 19, 1881, and Edna I., 
born September 28, 1891. Mrs. Hawkins is a 
member of the M. E. Church. 



f(OHN GRAHAM, one of the best known and 

most highly respected native-born farmer 

v}\ citizens of Donegal township, is a grandson 

of Robert Graham, one of the earliest settlers 

of that township, having lived here at a time 

when the Indian was yet a denizen of the forest 

wild. 

Little is known of him, save that he was of Irish 
descent, and that ho and his wife lived in Wash 
iugton county, about two and one-half miles north 
east of Claysville. Their family consisted of nine 
children, five sons and four daughters — of whom 
Robert was born on the farm just spoken of, in 
Donegal township, and was here married to Sarah 
Jamison, who bore him the following children: 
John, Robert, Mary, Samuel, Jane, Sarah (Mrs. 
James Buchanan, of Brooke county, W. Va.), 
William (living in Nebraska, was twiceelected to the 
United Slates Congress from Pennsylvania), and 
Margaret (Mrs. James Chambers, of Buffalo town- 
ship) Of these, Robert, Mary, Samuel and Jane 



C T^ 





1^-lA^ 




PlXA-/~klA^/ 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



941 



are deceased, the last two named having died be- 
fore reaching maturity. The parents lived to a 
patriarchal age, the father dying in 1800, aged 
ninety-five, and the mother June 27, 1880, aged 
ninety one years. 

John Graham, the subject proper of these lines, 
was born January 14, 1814, and his boyhood days 
were passed in hard work on the farm, and in at- 
tending, dining a few winter months in each year, 
the old log school-house with its primitive furnish- 
ings and not less primitive antiquated "dominie." 
Mr. Graham remained with his parents during 
their lifetime, and after their decease he continued 
the farm work till a few years ago, when he leased 
the farm to tenants, and has since lived compara- 
tively retired, simply overseeing the work. He 
has b 'en very successful in all his undertakings, and 
is in the enjoyment of a well earned competence. 
Mr. Graham is blessed with escellont health, and 
has seen but little sickness in all his long life. He 
has never married. A member of the U. P. Cunrch 
of Claysville, he is one of its liberal contributors. 
In politics, first a Whig, afterward a Republican 
and an enthusiastic Abolitionist, he has ever been 
a zealous party-man and a loyal citizen. His suc- 
cess in life is due entirely to his own efforts and 
assiduous perseverance, coupled with sound judg- 
ment and characteristic prudence. He is public 
spirited and progressive, and enjoys the esteem 
and respect of all. 



If RA L. LACOCK, an enterprising citizen of 
I Franklin township, Washington Co., Penu., is 
a native of the same, having been born January 
19, I860, on the farm of his father. He is a 
son of John V., and grandson of Ira Lacock, who 
was born December 13, 1794, in Amwell township, 
Washington county, where his boyhood was passed 
in attending school and afterward in farming. He 
was married to Anna Bane, daughter of Isaac 
Bane, and the following children were born to 
them: William, Samuel (deceased), Isaac, John V., 
Elizabeth (Mrs. William Mounts) and Ira J. After 
his marriage Mr. Lacock lived in Amwell town- 
ship two years, then moved to Franklin township, 
and in 1856 settled in Washington, where he died 
December 13, 1870. He was a Democrat in politics. 
John V. Lacock was born September 5, 1822, in 
Amwell township, Washington county, and was 
educated at the subscription schools. On Decem- 
ber 2, 1850, he was married to Sarah, daughter of 
William McClenathan, a native of Ireland. He 
then settled in Franklin township, afterward mov- 
ing to Washington borough, then to the home 
place, and finally locating at Point Lookout, on the 
farm where he now resides, which consists of fifty 
three acres of good laud. Mr. and Mrs. Lacock 
have had the following children: George S. (mar- 



ried to Mary Slusher, who has borne him two chil 
dreu, Biddell and Birdie), Dr. S. A., William R., 
Ira L. , and Marion (deceased). Politically, he is 
an active worker in the Democratic party, and in 
religion is a member of the Disciple Church at 
Washington borough. 

IraL. Lacock received his early education during 
the winter season at the school house at Point 
Lookout, and worked on the farm during the sum 
mers. February 23, 1882, he was united in mar 
riage with Jennie, daughter of Lewis McKahan, 
of Washington, this county, and they have had two 
children: Lester, born April 15, 1883, and Earl (de 
ceased), born January 11, 1801. One year after 
his marriage Mr. Lacock moved to the farm in 
Amwell township, purchased in December, 1881, 
of Dr. F.J. LeMoyue, and then bought and moved 
to the Braddock farm, where he remained three 
years, when, in 1887, he sold it to J. F. Wilson. 
He then purchased the home farm of his father, 
where he erected his present residence. He has a 
large and valuable farm, containing 175 acres, 
which he has managed very successfully. In pol- 
itics he is a Democrat, and has always taken an 
active interest in the success of his party. 



MITH F. SCOTT, son of Joseph A. and 
Eliza (Sheplar) Scott, was born April 2, 
1840, in Fallowfield township. Washington 
Co., Penu. He is the fourth in a family of 
eight children, and received his early education in 
the schools of Fallowfield and Somerset townships. 
On November 22, 1800, he led to the altar Sarah 
F. Rogers, who was born April 30, 1844, in Bealls 
ville, Washington Co., Penn. She is a daughter 
of Samuel W. and Sarah F. (Crawford) Rogers, 
both of whom were natives of Maryland., The 
children of Mr. and Mrs. Rogers were as follows: 
Priscilla W., wife of Adah W. Crouch, a farmer of 
West Pike Run township; Joseph H.,of Bealls 
ville, Penn.; Sarah F., wife of Smith F. Scott; 
Emma E., married to George R. Deems, an agri 
culturist of West Pike Run township; Mary A., 
deceased; and two who died in infancy. . The 
father was a prosperous farmer, and in party pref- 
erences was a Republican, serving in various town- 
ship offices. He died in 1890, the mother having 
passed away in 1882. Both were members of the 
M. E. Church at Beallsville, Pennsylvania. 

Smith F. and Sarah F. (Rogers) Scott have four 
children, viz.: Alpheus C, born September 5, 
1807; John E.,born June 10, 1870; Samuel Clyde, 
born June 2, 1877, and Tryphena May, born Octo- 
ber 18, 1881. Mr. Scott owns a good farm, which 
contains seventy-five acres, furnished with good 
buildings, and all modern improvements. He is a 
progressive, public-spirited citizen, actively inter 
ested in all progressive movements, having filled 



942 



WASHINGTON COl \ I) 



various local offices. H.> votes with the Repub 
lican party. He and his wife are members of the 
Beallsville M. E. Church, to which he gives » lib 
era] support. 

There arc still living of Joseph A. Scott's chil- 
dren four, namely- Henry S. Soott, of Bentleyville, 
who has a wife ami three children, till boys; S I 
Scott, whose family is described in this sketch; J. 
Y. Scot i. M. !>.. and wife, of Washington, Penn., 
and Margaret M.Miller, of Washington. Penn., who 
is married and has two children. Below are found 
the names and dates of births and deaths: Joseph 
Alexander Scott, born October 5, 1806, died Feb 
ruarv 15, 1881; Eliza Sheplar Scott, born June 11, 
1815, died April L5, 1892; Joseph A. Scott and 
Eliza Sheplar were married November 23, 1835, at 
Peoria, 111.; Henry Sheplar Scott, horn July 27, 
L840; Sarah Catherine Scott, born April 30, 1842, 
died January 26, 1S47; James Anderson Scott, 
born May 10, 1844, died October 28, 1853; Smith 
Fry Scott, born April 2, 1846; Jesse Yager Scott, 
born November Pi. 1848; Margaret Malissa Scott, 
bom September 2, 1850; Nancy Peoria Scott, born 
July 27, 1X,>:5, died November l>, IS">6, ami Joseph 
Clark Scott, who was born September 1'-'. 1855, 
and died October 30, 1881. 




\ILLIAM L. PORTER, now retired from 
active business, is one of the representa- 
tive men of West Alexander. Hi> grand - 
father. William Porter, was born and 
reared in eastern Pennsylvania, and was 
there married to Mary Lawson. who bore him chil- 
dren as follows: John, William, Mary, Thomas. 
• lames, Margaret and Elizabeth. Some time after 
his marriage Mr Porter and his family started on 
the tedious journey to Washington county, Penn.. 
and after several weeks arrived in West Finley 
township. He purchased and settled on a tract of 
'2'2~< acres of uncultivated land. Neighbors were 
few in those days, and the Indians were ofttimes 
troublesome, but the brave pioneers struggled on 
until success crowned their efforts. Politically, 
Mr. Porter was a Whig, ami in religion a member 
of the Seceder Church. He was an energetic man, 
and took an active interest in the improvement of 
the vicinity. He and his wife died on the old 
farm. 

Thomas Porter was born in 1789, in West Fin- 
ley township, Washington county, on the home 
farm, where he received his education. In early 
manhood he was united in marriage with Margaret, 
daughter of John Neal. of Carlisle, Penn., and 
thej made a permanent home in West Finley town 
--hip. where the following children were born to 
them and reared: William L. (subject of our 

sketch), Mary. John. Thomas, Lngeline and Eliza 
beth Mr, Potter was a farmer, also conducted a 



blacksmith shop, employing four men, and he made a 
success in both vocations. He was an active poli- 
tician in the Democratic party, and in religion was 
a member and liberal supporter of the Associate 
Reformed Church. 

William L. Porter was horn January it, IMS, 
near Pittsburgh, Penn. and worked on the farm 
during his boyhood days, receiving a subscription 
school education. He was married January \ 1839, 
to Elizabeth, daughter of John Kimmotis. who bore 
him four children: Joseph R. M. J. (Mrs. A. J. 
Post ). Harriet A. (Mrs. Samuel Schaeffer) and 
Lewis. The mother of these children died May 1. 
1861, and Mr. Porter was afterward married on 
February 26, 1863, to Mrs. Elizabeth White. He 
passed the first twelve years of married life on his 
father's farm, and then purchased a place east of 
West Alexander, where he resided twenty six 
years. He then sold out, and clerked eight years 
in a general store tit West Alexander. He after 
ward commenced business for himself, and having 
won the esteem and confidence of the community, 
was very successful in this venture. In 1 S S 3 ill 
health compelled him to retire from business, but 
he is still an active man. Mr. Porter is a very 
popular citizen, and has many friends, who rejoice 
with him in the success which he has so well 
earned. Politically he has always been an active 
member of the Democratic party, but has never 
accepted office. In religious connection lie is the 
oldest member of the U. P. Church, with which he 
is connected, and to which he is a liberal contrib- 
utor. He is a member of the Session, and has ever 
been a zealous worker in the cause, encouraging 
all progressive movements. Since the present edi 
face has been erected, Mr. Porter has twice served 
as treasurer, and has taken an active part in the 
upbuilding of the Society. 



QEORGE HUNTEB 'BRIGHT. This high 
ly-esteemed octogenarian is a living example 
of what patient purpose, resolute work 
ing, steadfast integrity and life of rectitude 
can accomplish in the ranks of the indus- 
trious, plodding agriculturists. He was bom Jan 
uar\ 22. 1813, in Chester county, Penn., where he 
received ti limited education at the schools of the 
period. Hi- grandfather, Robert Wright, wns a 
native of County Monaghan. Ireland, where he 
passed his entire life, married, and had a numer 
ons family, of which one son, named James, became 
the father of the subject of this sketch. 

James Wright was born in County Monaghan, 
Ireland, in 177S. and when a lad of ten years 
emigrated from his native land to America, land 
ing in Philadelphia. Penn., whence he shortly af- 
terward proceeded to Chester county, same State 
Here he was "bound out" to one Daniel Gornick, 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



943 



a farmer, with whom he made his home, being 
trained in agricultural pursuits, until eighteen 
years of age, when he commenced the stone mason's 
trade, which he followed until 1818, in which year 
he came to Washington county, locating in Amwell 
township. Here he purchased a tract of land lying 
about three miles northeast of Amity, where he 
passed the remainder of his busy life. While a 
resident of Chester county he was married fco Jane 
Burns, a native of the same, horn of English 
parents, and to this union came the following chil- 
dren: Sarah, who lived to the age of fourscore; 
Samuel, who also lived to a ripe old age; James, 
who lived to adult age; George H. , subject; An- 
drew Jackson and Henry Burns, both lived to 
manhood, and Margaret, now living in Amwell 
township, the widow of Nicholas Horn. The father 
of this family died September 6, 1855, the mother 
following him to the grave June 3, 1870, at the 
patriarchal age of ninety-one. In politics Mr. 
Wright was a Democrat. 

George H. Wright, of whom this memoir chiefly 
treats, under the careful preeeptorshipof his father, 
was early taught lasting lessons in industry and 
economy — -lessons that formed in him habits of life 
which brought to bim the success which secured 
him an ample competence for his declining years. 
At the age of nineteen fin 1832) our subject com- 
menced life for himself, leaving home and working 
at different places by the month, on farms, in 
which he continued until the spring of 1838, when 
he took up his residence in Richhill township, 
Greene Co. , same State, where he remained 
until 1840, at which time he came to East Finley 
township, this county, locating near where he now 
lives, about one mile southeast of East Finley 
postoffice. At that time the place was a " howling 
wilderness," but. Mr. Wright manfully set, to work, 
soon made a clearing on which he erected a sub 
Htantial log cabin, a primitive but comfortable home 
for his wife and little ones; and by hard work, in- 
domitable perseverance and good management, 
what was when he first saw it. a vista of wild rocks, 
he transformed into smiling fields of grain, and 
gardens that were made to "blossom as the rose." 

On April 14. 1832. Mr. Wright was united in 
marriage with Lvdia Hoi hurt, a native of Virginia, 
born June 4, 1809, daughter of John Holburt. of 
what was then Morris fnow Franklin) township, 
this county, and this union was blessed with chil- 
dren as follows: Frances Jane, born December 27, 
1832, deceased in infancy; Catherine, born Novem- 
ber 25, 1833, now living in East Finley township, 
the widow of George Ealy; John Holburt. born 
January 8, 1839, died July 27, 1859-, James 
Riley, born December 27, 1840, now in West Fin- 
ley township, married to Jane Sprowls; Henry, 
born September 25, 1842, now in East Finley 
township, married to Rachel Rockefeller; Sarah 



Margaret, born May 10. 1846, at home with her 
father; George W. and Isaac B. (twins), born Sep 
tember 13, 1848 (George W. is living in East Fin- 
ley, married to Juliette Day; Isaac lives in the 
same township, married to Frances Mills); Ben- 
jamin Franklin, born March Hi, 1851, now lives in 
East Finley township, married to Pluebe .lane 
Tucker, of Amwell township. The mother of this 
large family died August 7, 1889, deeply regretted 
by all who knew her. She was a consistent mem 
ber of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church at 
Old Concord, as is Mr. Wright, and in his political 
preferences he has been a lifelong Democrat. 



fjOHN WOODS, a pioneer settler of Chartiers 
^ I township, was born November 23, 1817, a 
((J grandson of John Woods, a native of Ireland, 
who was there married to Mary Allen. They 
soon afterward immigrated to America, first 
locating in Westmoreland county. Penn , thence 
proceeding to Mt. Pleasant township. Washington 
Co., Penn., and then moved to North Strabane 
township, whence they finally came to the farm in 
Chartiers township, now owned by their grandson 
John, where they kept a tavern. The grandfather 
was a member of the Seceder Church, and both he 
and his wife died in this county, leaving a family 
of children, among whom was the father of our 
subject, Nathaniel. 

Nathaniel Woods was born in Westmoreland 
county, Penn., and coming to Washington county 
in early manhood, was there united in marriage 
with Elizabeth Updegraff, born in the Shenan 
doah Valley, Loudoun county, Va. Her paternal 
grandfather had also been a native of Virginia, 
and coming to Chartiers township had made his 
permanent home in this county, where his children 
afterward settled. After his marriage Nathaniel 
Woods settled in Chartiers township, where the 
following children were born and reared: John, 
Margaret (who died in Cincinnati, Ohio), Mary 
fdeceased). Nathaniel fliving in Chartiers township, 
was a soldier in the Mexican war), Kate (living in 
Washington borough), Henry (deceased in 1852, a 
soldier of the Mexican war) and Elizabeth (resid- 
ing in Washington). Mr. Woods was a farmer 
and distiller, and in politics voted the Democratic 
ticket. He was a soldier under Gen. Harrison in 
the war of 1812. On March 2, 1836, he was laid 
to rest, and was followed by his widow in 1885. 

John Woods was reared on his father's farm, 
and received a limited education in the schools of 
Chartiers township. He then learned the trade of 
a painter, continuing in that work over forty years 
In 1857 John Woods was married to Amanda 
Dickson, a native of Washington county. Ohio, 
and a daughter of Christopher and Elizabeth 
(Snyder) Dickson, who were natives of Virginia, 



'.Ml 



WASHINGTON C0U1S, I) 



but settled in Ludlow township, Washington Co., 
Ohio, in an early day, where the remainder of their 
lives was passed. After his marriage Mr. Woods 
settled on the farm in Ghartiers township, where 
he yet resides. His wife died January 20, 1890, 
leaving five children, namely: Maggie (living in 
Pittsburgh, Penn.); Mary (wife of Edward Timmons, 
of Chartiers township); Henry (living in Canons - 
burg); Auna (Mrs. Rankin Zerba, of Clermont, 
Penn.), and John. Mr. Woods has followed his 
trade the greater part of his life, together with 
managing a farm. He has been a member of the 
Republican party since its first organization, and 
cast a vote for William Henry Harrison; he has 
served three or four years as township assessor, 
and has also filled several other offices of trust. 
Mrs. Woods was an earnest worker and member in 
the Cross Roads Presbyterian Church. 




HrlRAM VAN KIRK. The ancestry of this 
gentleman were natives of New Jersey, in 
| which State his grandfather, Jacob Van 
Kirk, was born September 27, 1766. In 
v early manhood he came with his father's 

family to West Bethlehem township, this county. 
He was married to Elizabeth Lee, who was born 
December 9, 1777, and they reared four children, 
viz.: Enoch, born April 14, 1796; Joseph, born 
January 17, 1798; Anna, born February 15, 1806; 
and Leah, born May 18, 1817. 

Hiram Van Kirk, son of Joseph and Eliza (Cor- 
wiu) Van Kirk, was born September 18, 1830, in 
Amwell township, Washington Co., Penn.. where 
his entire life has been passed. Ho received his 
education in the common schools, and profited by 
his early opportunities. On May 15, 1862, he 
was united in marriage with Anna F. Hughes, 
who was born December 1, 1837, a daughter of 
Samuel L. and Susan Hughes, of Amwell town- 
ship, who were the parents of nine children — five 
sons and four daughters. They are old residents 
of Washington county, and further record of the 
family will be found in the sketches of John and 
James W. Hughes. Mr. and Mrs. Van Kirk have 
two sons: James H, born July 17, 1863; and 
Francis J., born August 2, 1869, both of whom 
yet remain with their parents on the old home 
farm, which has been the property of Mr. Van- 
Kirk for twenty-nine years, and consists of 150 
acres of prime land. He is also the owner of an- 
other farm of 144 acres, known as the John P. 
Van Kirk place Politically, Mr. Van Kirk is an 
ardent supporter of the Democratic party, having 
1 ii one of the " wheel horses " in Amwell town- 
ship for many years. Mrs. Van Kirk is a mem- 
ber of the Christian Church, and though her hus- 
band is not connected with that body, lie gives 
liberally to the cause, and does all in his power to 
promote the interests of morality and religion. 



ILLIAM JAMES KELSO. The Kelso 
family are of Irish descent, and Mark 
Kelso, after his marriage to Elizabeth 
Ewing, came to a farm in Allegheny 
county, Penn., remaining there some time. 
In 1818 he bought an improved farm, which lie 
came his permanent home. His wife died many 
years before him, leaving the following chil 
dren: Mary (Mrs. John Cowden, living in Mt. 
Pleasant township), Esther (who died in INNS). 
Elizabeth (who died in 1884), George, John (wbo 
married in Ohio, and had one child, Americus, now 
deceased), James, Martha and Letta Ann. Of these 
children James Kelso was first married to a Miss 
Elder, who bore him children as follows: William 
E., Mark, John, Elizabeth and Lucinda. The 
mother died, and for his second wife James was 
married to Jane Miller, and they had three chil- 
dren: Margaret, Alice and Miller. This wife also 
died, and the father then made a third choice in 
the person of Mrs. Catherine M. Millan, who bore 
him two children, viz.: James and Samuel George. 
The father of this family died in Allegheny coun 
ty, Penn., two years after the death of his last. 
wife. Martha Kelso became the wife of Phineas 
Kelso, of Lawrence county, Ohio, and four chil 
dren were born to them as follows: Mark (who en- 
tered the service in Lawrence county, Ohio, and 
was killed in battle), Elizabeth, Andrew and John. 
Letta Ann Kelso was married to John Gregg, of 
North Fayette township, Allegheny Co., Penn., 
the following children being born to their union: 
Elizabeth, Mark, Edward, Mary, Levi and Esther 
(twins), Clara, Emma and Ellsworth. 

George M. Kelso, son of Mark and Elizabeth 
(Ewing) Kelso, was born April 6, 1806, in Alle- 
gheny county, Penn., coming in 1818 to Washing- 
ton county with his parents. The family settled 
on the farm now owned by J. R. Kelso, where 
George M. grew to manhood. On March 28, 1838, 
the latter was married to Maria Rankin, who was 
born December 22, 1813, in Mt. Pleasant town- 
ship. The young people settled on the home 
farm where their lives were passed. George Kelso 
and his wife were formerly members of the Union 
Church, afterward uniting with the United Presby- 
terian Church at Venice. He died March 27, 1879, 
his wife being laid to rest July 30, 1878. They 
were the parents of nine children: one who died 
unnamed; Mary Jane; Lizzie E. (wife of David R. 
P. Springer); Mark; Abigail Lavina, born in Feb- 
ruary, 1846 (deceased in March, 1847); Abigail 
Lavina, born December 21, 1847 (living on the 
home farm); J. R. (living on the home farm); Will- 
iam James, born May 5, 1852, and Maggie A., 
born July 2, 1854. Of these children Lizzie E. 
was married February 19, 1878, to David Springer, 
a native and resident of Robinson township, and 
to this union were born two children, one of whom 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



945 



is living, Charley Ross (Mr. Springer died August 
29, 1887); Mark Kelso was married on October 19, 
1871, to Elizabeth Cornelius Allison, a native of 
Allegheny county (they have had seven children, 
three of whom are living: George and Alexander 
(twins) and Mark; the father was a farmer of Fay- 
ette township, Allegheny Co , Perm.). 

William James Kelso was born on the old place 
in Mt. Pleasant township, this county, there re- 
ceiving his early education. On May 10, 1882, he 
was married to Ella Finley, a native of Allegheny 
City, daughter of William Finley, who was born 
in County Derry, Ireland. In about 1855 they 
came to America and located in Allegheny City. 
Penn., where they are now living. 

After his marriage Mr. Kelso bought and moved 
upon the William McConnell farm in Cecil town- 
ship, containing 103iJ acres. He has made many 
improvements, and has erected a good barn. He 
votes with the Republican party, and in religion 
Mr. and Mrs. Kelso are members of the United 
Presbyterian Church at Venice, this county. They 
have one daughter, Mary Elsie. 



J I AMES JOHNSTON HOWE is a well-known 
citizen of Peters township. His ancestors 
came from Scotland many years ago and set- 
tled in eastern Pennsylvania, where James 
Howe was born and reared. James Howe 
learned the blacksmith's trade, and then settled on 
a farm near Washington, in Washington Co , 
Perm. He was married to Miss Margaret Clark, 
of this county, who bore him the following chil 
dnn : William, Mary, Ann, Jane, Thomas, James, 
Elizabeth, David, Nancy and Margaret, of whom 
James, Elizabeth, Nancy and Margaret are yet 
living. Mr. Howe followed his trade until 1822, 
then came to the home farm in Peters township, 
this county, where he was also engaged in farm- 
ing. Prior to 1840 he was a Democrat, but after 
the Harrison campaign joined the Whig party, 
which was eventually merged into the Republican 
faction. He died in 1863. 

William Howe, eldest son of James and Marga- 
ret Howe, was born October 29, 1816, in Buffalo 
township, Washington Co., Penn. He passed his 
youth in performing the usual duties of farm life, 
and also learned the blacksmith's trade. In 1847 
he was united in marriage with Nancy, daughter 
of James Johnston, of Peters township, this 
county, and the young people located on a farm 
near the old place, where he worked at his trade, 
but afterward removed to Allegheny county, Penn., 
whore they remained two years. In 1865 they re- 
turned to Washington county, and locating on the 
home place, he abandoned his trade and devoted 
the remnant of his life to farming. He died Feb 
ruary 7, 1872, leaving one son, James Johnston. 



James Johnston Howe, son of William and 
Nancy Howe, was born on the home place, in 
Peters township, August 23, 1848. He attended 
the Canonsburg Academy for two terms, and when 
his father died left school to take charge of the 
home farm. On October 18, 1882, he married 
Elizabeth M., daughter of William H. Carpenter, 
a prominent farmer of Lawrence county, Penn. 
The home farm contains eighty -live acres of ex- 
cellent land, and when wool was selling at a high 
price Mr. Howe made a specialty of sheep raising. 
Politically, he is a stanch Republican, and in re 
ligion is a member and liberal supporter of the 
Greenside Avenue United Presbyterian Church, of 
Canonsburg. 



1/ If UGH HANNA, M. D., a retired physician 
p— "I of Washington county, now living on a 
farm in Chartiers township, is the son of 
1) -^ Hugh and Dorothy Hanna, the former of 
V whom was born in Ireland, and came to 

Washington county in an early day, settling in Ce 
cil township. He was there married to Dorothy 
Whitely, a native of Peters township, this county, 
and the following children were born to their 
union: William (a wagon-maker in Monongahela 
City), Thomas (who went to California in an early 
day and was killed in 1866, while in Nevada), 
Frederick (a saddler and harness maker, deceased 
in Peters township when in the prime of man 
hood), Eleanor (deceased wife of Samuel Smith, of 
Canonsburg), Nancy (married to James McLoney, 
of Odessa, West Bethlehem township, this county), 
James (farming in North Strabane township), 
Hugh, and Samuel (who died when about two years 
of age). The father of this family conducted a 
woolen mill on the " Craighead " farm in Cecil 
township for many years, and afterward devoted 
his time to agricultural work in Peters and Not- 
tingham townships, this county. He was an active 
worker in the Democratic party, and held various 
offices of trust in said townships. At the time of 
his death, which occurred in 1842, he was a mem- 
ber of the U. P. Church at Peters Creek. His wife 
died in 1858, while residing in Nottingham town 
ship. 

Hugh Hanna, M. D., was born in Cecil town 
ship, Washington Co., Penn., and received his ed- 
ucation in the district schools of Nottingham town- 
ship, and at an academy in Somerset township, 
taught by J. C. Messenger, the family having 
moved upon a farm in that vicinity. He began 
life as a school teacher in his native township, 
where he remained several terms, then taught one 
winter in Fallowfield township, and three winters 
in Peters township. He next taught three terms 
in Union township, at the end of which time he 
went to Allegheny county, remaining there one 



94(3 



Washington county. 



term. Daring this period of bis life, the young 
man passed every leisure hour reading medicine, 
afterward attending one term of lectures at Ann 
Arbor (Mich.) University. In 1869 he entered 
Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, graduat 
ing March 12, 1870, and then commenced the 
practice of medicine in Allegheny county, Penn. 
In the fall of 187] he went to Canonsburg, this 
county, and November 1, 1876, was married to 
Lizzie A. Wallace, a native of that town, a daugh 
ter of Thomas and Nancy (Arnold) Wallace. 
Thomas Wallace was a native of Washington 
county, Penn., and moved to Knox county, Ohio, 
where he died in 1865; his wife died in October, 
1883, at Cambridge, Ohio. 

Dr. Hanna remained in Canonsburg until 1878, 
when, after having been identified with the med 
ical profession about eight years, he retired to a 
farm iu Oh artier a township. This farm is a part 
of the Henderson homestead, and was in the pos- 
session of that family over one hundred years. Dr. 
Hanna first purchased 101| acres, but has since 
added to it, and now owns 131 1 acres of good pro 
ductive land. He and his wife have three chil- 
dren: Howard Thomas, Leota May and Birdie 
Bell, the latter of whom has become a good reader 
and mathematician under the instruction of her 
father, never having attended school. Dr. Hanna 
raises a fine breed of stock on his farm. The place 
is within the coal belt near McConnell's Mill. In 
politics the Doctor is a Democrat, Ad at this writ 
ing is a member of the school board. He started 
in life with but little, the success he has achieved 
being due to enterprise and industry. Mrs. Hanna 
is a member of the United Presbyterian Church at 
Houstonville, this county. 



/"T'EORGE KELSO. Among the early resi 
|| dents of Cecil township were Benjamin and 

V [ Mary (McCormick) Kelso, who settled in 
^4 Allegheny county, Penn., about the year 
" 1800. Benjamin Kelso served seven years 
and nine months in the Revolutionary war, and 
died from disease contracted while in the service. 

Benjamin Kelso, a son of the pioneer couple above 
mentioned, was born in 1801, and reared in Alle- 
gheny county, Penn., where he received his edu 
cation. In 1823 he was united in marriage with 
Martha, daughter of John Murdock, an' early pin 
Deer of Allegheny county, who afterward moved 
to Ohio, dying there many years ago. Mr. and 
Mrs. Kelso settled on the old homestead in Alle- 
gheny county, Penn., where he died in 1880, be 
ing followed to the grave by his wife in 1888 
They reared the following family of children: Re- 
becca (married in 1836 to Cornelius Borland, now 
living in Cecil township, this county), John (a res- 
ident of Allegheny county, Penn., married to Mary 
Hall). Mary (wife of Richard Gladden), George 



(whose sketch follows), James (living in Pasadena, 
Cal.), Nancy (married to William Herron, of 
Noblestown), Margaret, Martha (wife of John P. 
McConnell), Benjamin (residing on the homestead 
in Allegheny county), Mark (living iu North Stra 
bane township), Samuel (residing in Xenia. Ohio) 
and Elizabeth. Of these are yet living Rebecca, 
George, James, Benjamin, Mark and Samuel. The 
father was a Whig and Republican in politics, 
and in religious faith he and his wife were formerlj 
members of the Associate Reformed Church at 
Robinson's Run, afterward uniting with the U. P. 
Church at the same place. 

George Kelso, son of Benjamin and Martha 
(Murdock) Kelso, was born April 28, 1822, in South 
Fayette township, Allegheny Co.. Penn. , attending 
the subscription schools of the day during his 
boyhood. He began farming on the old homestead, 
and June 1, 1852, was married to Sarah Jane 
Wallace, also a native of Allegheny county, daugh- 
ter of William and Elizabeth (Gilfilland) Wal 
lace The parents were natives of eastern Penn 
sylvania, coming when children with their parents 
to Allegheny county, where they were married. 
They were both members of the United Presbyte 
rian Church at Robinson's Run, and Mr. Wallace 
was for some years a member of the Session. He 
died in 1NS4, being followed by his wife a few 
years later. His son William lives at the old home. 

George and Sarah Jane Kelso passed the first 
years of married life in Allegheny county, and in 
1857 bought 178 acres in Cecil township, Wash- 
ington county. He has made many improvements 
on the place, and in 1881 erected a comfortable 
house; in addition to general fanning he raises a 
good grade of sheep. He is a Republican in poli- 
tics, and has served his township as inspector of 
elections and auditor. In religious faith Mr. and 
Mrs. Kelso are members of the U. P. Church at 
Venice. They have had children, five of whom are 
yet living, as follows: James, a teacher in North 
Strabane township, married to Lizzie McNary; 
William Wallace, married to Anna A., daughter 
of Rev. Anderson, and living on the home farm; 
Benjamin McCormick, married to Mary Miller, a 
resident of Pasadena, Cal.; George A., a farmer; 
and John, a bookkeeper, in Pittsburgh. Those 
deceased are Lizzie, who died in 1854, aged fifteen 
months; Maggie, who died in 1S72, aged seven 
years; Sarah Bella, who died in 1876, aged fifteen 
years; and Mattie, deceased in 1880, aged twenty 
one years. 

J/OSIAH MELOY was born October 20, L826, 
j in Franklin (then Morris) township, Wash 
; ington Co., Penn.. a son of Reese Melo\ . 
whose father, William Meloy, was born in 
17r>:{, near Salem, Salem Co., N. J. William 
Meloy was t here married to Lydia McCray, who 



Washington cocnty. 



947 



was also a native of New Jersey, born in 1703, and 
in the year 1809 they started, in company with 
another family, to move to Ohio. While passing 
through Washington county, Penn., some of the 
family were taken ill, and they were obliged to 
atop at Coon Island, and the Meloy family became 
permanent residents of Pennsylvania. Mr. Meloy 
rented the "Hupp" farm in Washington county, 
and there passed the remainder of his life. His 
widow died in 1857. 

Reese Meloy, a son of William Meloy, was born 
in 1796, near Salem, Salem Co., N. J., and coming 
to Pennsylvania with his parents grew to man- 
hood in Washington county. He worked for a 
time on different farms, and in 1824 was united in 
marriage with Jane Caldwell, who was born in 
1805, near West Middletown, Penn., daughter of 
Samuel Caldwell. They had the following chil 
dren: Cyrus A. (farming in Amwell township, this 
county); Josiah (subject of sketch); Angeline (de- 
ceased in infancy); Hester, Mary and Reese; of this 
family the three last named died after attaining 
adult age. After his marriage Mr. Meloy located 
in Franklin (then Morris) township, this county, 
aud some time afterward came to Donegal town 
ship, where he located on a farm about two miles 
west of Claysville. He continued to farm on this 
place until his death, which occurred May 23, 
I860, his widow surviving him till February 2, 
1889. Mr. Meloy began life with but little, but 
by hard work and good management succeeded in 
accumulating a considerable property. Politically 
he was formerly a Whig, and after the organiza- 
tion of the party, became a Republican. 

Josiah Meloy, the second child in his father's 
family, came with his parents to Donegal town- 
ship, where he received his education, and was 
trained to farm work. On July 9, 1 803, he was 
married to Jane, daughter of Isaac Sutherland, 
of West Finley township, Washington county, and 
their children are Reese G. and Anna M., both 
living with their parents.' After his marriage Mr. 
Meloy settled on the farm which is his present 
home, and has successfully followed agricultural 
pursuits, devoting considerable attention to stock 
raising. Politically, he is a Republican. 



D 



^AVID WEAVER, one of the oldest repre- 
sentative citizens in Peters township, 
comes of Irish descent, and is a grandson 
of John W. Weaver, who is supposed to 
have been born in the Emerald Isle. He came 
from Chester county, Penn., in 1787, and first 
located in Lancaster county, then bought 160 
acres of land near Canonsburg, in Chartiers town- 
ship, Washington county. He was a mason by 
trade, and followed that business until his death. 
His children were John, Sarah, Mary Jane, Nancy, 
Isaac, Thomas H., Dell, George and Joshua . 



Thomas H. Weaver was born in 1790, in Lan- 
caster county, Penn., aud in early life came with 
his father to Washington county. He worked on 
the home farm during his youth, and was married 
to Mary, daughter of James White, an early 
settler of Washington county. They began wedded 
life on a farm about two miles from Canonsburg, 
in North Strabane township, where children were 
born as follows: James, Isaac, Thomas, David, 
Jane, an infant son, an infant daughter, John, 
George, Mary, Moses and Elizabeth. Of this 
family James, Isaac, Thomas. David and Mary are 
yet living. 

David Weaver, son of Thomas H .and Mary (White) 
Weaver, was born July 27, 1818, in North Strabane 
township, and received his education in the sub 
scription schools. On February 2S, 1850, he was 
united in marriage with Clarissa M., daughter of 
the late Amos Enlow, a prominent farmer of this 
county, who spent about ten years in Illinois, which 
was then known as the " far west." In 1856 Mr. 
and Mrs. Weaver moved to their present home in 
Peters township, where the following children 
were born and reared: Isaac P., Mary C, Ben 
jamin F., George J., Thomas P. and Amos Enlow. 
of whom but two are yet living, Mary C. (Mrs. 
Robert Donaldson, of Canonsburg) and George J. 
(married to Viola Cook, of Minnesota, who is 
living with his father and managing the farm). 
The old place contains ninety-three acres of good 
land, and Mr. Weaver has conducted an extensive 
dairy business. He also keeps about fifty hives 
of bees, which bring a good profit. In politics he 
is a " true blue " Democrat, and has served in 
many township offices. In religious faith he is a 
member and liberal supporter of the United Pres- 
byterian Church at Canonsburg. 



FRANK M. GABBY, one of the most pro- 
gressive citizens of Franklin township, was 
born March 6, 1842, in Canton township, 
Washington Co., Penn., and passed his 
early life on the home farm. He attended the 
common schools of his vicinity, until about eighteen 
years of age, when his father needed his assist- 
ance in the duties of the farm. On December '21, 
1870, Mr. Gabby was united in marriage with 
Sarah, daughter of Adam Weir, and their union 
has been blessed with one daughter, Jennie W. 
Mr. Gabby commenced married life on the farm of 
his father, and in 1881 moved to his present home 
in Franklin township, where he has since been 
engaged in farming and stock raising. He has 
always taken an active interest in any progressive 
enterprise of his township, giving his most hearty 
co-operation to every worthy cause. Politically he 
is an ardent worker in the ranks of the Republican 
party, and in religion he and his wife are members 
of the United Presbyterian Church at Washington. 



948 



ii ASHIXGTON GOUNfY. 




OBERT D. HENRY. For more than a 
century the Henry family have been resi- 
dents of Washington county, more espe- 
cially that portion of'it in and about South 
Strabane township. They are of Irish 
descent, Robert, the great grandfather of our sub- 
ject, having been born in the " Green Isle of Erin,'" 
where he married a countrywoman and reared a 
family of four sons— David, John, Nicholas and 
Joseph — and three daughters —Jennie, Margaret 
and Isabella. In 1783 they came to this country, 
finally settling near where is now the village of 
Claysville, this county, where the head of the fam- 
ily remained a short time, and then moved to South 
Strabane township, where he died. 

Robert Henry, son of this pioneer, was married 
in early life to Ann, daughter of Nicholas Little, 
and by her had seven children: Joseph, Jane, 
Nicholas, Margaret, David, Isabella and John (all 
deceased). For many years Mr. Henry was en 
gaged in trading, and among other ventures brought 
salt across the mountains with a train of saddle 
horses. He also followed agricultural pursuits 
with considerable success, having settled on the 
farm now occupied by our subject. He was a mem- 
ber of the Seceder Church of Pigeon Creek, and 
one of its early founders. He was a very prominent 
man in all social organizations, and in politics he 
was an Old line Whig. 

Nicholas Henry, father of our subject, passed 
his boyhood and youth on the home farm, and early 
in life married Margaret, daughter of John Zed- 
iker, of the same township. The following chil- 
dren were born to this union: Robert D. ; Mary, 
.Mrs. Nathaniel White; Louis; Joseph, who died 
in 1854; anil John. Of these, Louis enlisted in 
Company C, One Hundred and Fortieth P. V. I., 
and was wounded at the battle of the Wilderness 
in May, 1S64; he died May 24 following, his body 
being brought home and interred in Pigeon Creek 
U. P. Cemetery. The father of this family died 
April 24, 1838, and the mother on April 8, 1862. 
Mr. Henry early united with the Seceder Church, 
and, like his parents, gave it his earnest and 
heartiest support; politically he was an Old line 
Whig; socially he was an upright citizen, highly 
respected in the community. 

Robert D. Henry was born July 31, 1820, on his 
present farm in South Strabane township, and at- 
tended the subscription schools of the neighbor- 
hood. He was one of the closest students of his 
time, and has since taken an active interest in edu- 
cational matters, continually advocating better 
school privileges and a more thorough system. On 
November, 16, 1876, he was married to Catherine, 
daughter of Andrew Holland, and one child, Rob- 
ert Howard (now deceased) was born to them; the 
mother died April 27, 1889. Mr. Henry has 
always lived on the old home place, which was 



patented to Thomas Kerr. From earliest youth he 
has been a member of the U. P. Church at Pigeon 
Creek, of which he has served as trustee several 
years. In his political preferences he is a stanch 
Republican, and was, prior to the organization of 
his party, an Old-line Whig. He has held many 
offices of trust in his township, and for years served 
as justice of the peace; he also served one term as 
jury commissioner of the county, from 1876 to 
1 879, and is an enterprising and substantial citizen. 



If If ENRY T. BAILEY, a well-known citizen of 

r~"l Amwell township, is a son of Isaac Bailey, 

whose father came from Chester county, 

J) — Penn., and located in Washington county. 

Isaac Bailey was united in marriage, 

November 20, 1841, with Agnes Garrett, and to 

them wefe born three children: Maria (now Mrs. 

H. 11. Kinder), Henry T. and William (i., the 

latter of whom died June 24, 1884; he lived on the 

old homestead. 

Henry T. Bailey was born in East Pike Run 
township, Washington Co., Penn., where he re- 
mained until he was about thirty years of age. 
He obtained his earlier education in the common 
schools, afterward, in 1866, attending Iron City 
College. He then attended the Southwestern State 
Normal School, at California, Penn., for several 
terms. During the years 1875 and 1876 he attended 
the National School of Elocution. Philadelphia, 
from which he graduated December 10, 1.S76. He 
was a successful teacher in the common schools, 
and also in East Liverpool, Ohio, as well as at 
California, Penn., covering a period, in all, of 
eight years. On November 15, 1N77, Mr. Bailey 
was married to Miss M. Emma Swart, of Amwell 
township, Washington count}', and three children 
have come to brighten their home: Inez A., born 
April 3, 1880; Lena S., born January 18, 1883, 
and Harry Hiram, born November 23, 1891. 
Since his marriage he has been engaged in farm- 
ing and stock raising. Mr. Bailey is Republican 
in politics, and in 1880 was appointed census 
enumerator for Amwell township; in 1884 he was 
elected county auditor, which office he held for 
three years. In religion he and his family are 
members of the Methodist Protestant Church at 
Amity. 

^ILLIAM C. RAMSEY, a representative 
agriculturist of Franklin township, and 
one of the enterprising citizens of the 
county, is a native of the same, having 
been born in Amwell township March 5, 1843. 

George Ramsey, grandfather of subject, mar 
ried Mrs. Lydia Lloyd, daughter of Mordecai 
Chandler, of Chester county, Penn., a member of 
one of the leading families of that part of the 




WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



951 



Keystone State. Her grandfather came from 
England at an early day. Mrs. George Ramsey's 
first husband was a Mr. Lloyd, by whom she had 
five children — three sons and two daughters — of 
whom one son, Samuel, is yet living in Amwell town- 
hip, aged eighty-eight years. After Mr. Lloyd's 
death his widow was united in marriage with 
George Ramsey, and one child was born to them, 
Reuben, father of the subject of this sketch. Mrs. 
George Ramsey died, in J 872, at the home of her 
sou in Amwell township, aged ninety-five years, 
and to the end was able to read ordinary print 
without the aid of glasses. In religious faith she 
was a member of the Society of Friends, and al- 
ways wore the habiliments peculiar to the sect. 
She was a close student of the Bible, and had the 
faculty of quoting off-hand from any portion of 
the Scriptures. 

Reuben Ramsey was born in Washington, this 
county, near the corner of College ami Maiden 
streets, and received his education in the schools 
of the county. He learned the trade of cooper, at 
which he worked for a time in the southeastern part 
of the county and near the river. \V hen yet a young 
man lie married Margaret, daughter of Michael and 
Elizabeth (Closser) Horn, and a native of Amwell 
township. After marriage the young couple made 
a settlement in Amwell township, where he con- 
tinued to follow his trade in connection with farm- 
ing. Five children were born to them, of whom 
the following is a brief record: William Calvin, 
tin- subject proper of this sketch, has special men- 
tion further on; Robert Hamilton was a member 
of Company A, F. V. C, and served to the close 
of the Civil war (he died of disease contracted 
while in the army, leaving a family now living in 
Indiana); George Washington died, in 1874, of 
lockjaw, leaving no family; Nicholas Murray is 
yet living on the home farm in Amwell town- 
ship; John Nelson, when a young man (in 
1873) died in Amwell township, of scrofula. The 
parents both died in Amwell township, the father 
in 1882, the mother October 8, 1890. In politics 
he was an ardent Democrat, and in religion he was 
a member of the Presbyterian Church at Amity. 

William C. Ramsey passed his boyhood on the 
home farm, and attended the common schools of the 
neighborhood, his primary education there being 
supplemented with instruction at an academy and 
a normal school. On August 8, 1862, he enlisted 
in Company D, One Hundred and Fortieth F. V. 
I, served to the close of the war, and was dis- 
charged June 25, 1865, at Albany, N. Y. He 
participated in two battles — Chancellorsville and 
Gettysburg — at which latter he was struck by a 
minie -ball which fractured the bone between knee 
and instep. By reason of this he was confined to 
hospital ten months, and when he recovered was 
transferred to the Eleventh Veteran Corps, in 



which he was made quattermaster sergeant, prior 
to which he had been a color corporal. Returning 
to Washington county, he followed fanning during 
the summer months, and taught school in the win- 
ter time, teaching, in all, seven terms, part of the 
time prior to his enlistment. In 1870 he was 
elected, on the Democratic ticket, sheriff of the 
county, serving the term of three years with satis- 
faction to all. He resided in town during his 
shrievaltyship, and at the expiration of term pur- 
chased his present farm, situated about rive miles 
from Washington, where his home has since been, 
and where he built a comfortable residence. 

In 1803 Mr. Ramsey was united in marriage 
with Miss Elizabeth Jane, daughter of Levi and 
Cynthia Sower, of West Bethlehem township, this 
county, and five children have come to bless their 
home: Ulysses Bernard, Levi Harlan, Kate Flor 
ence, Wilmetta Maud Estella ami Lillie Blanche. 
Mr. Ramsey has held various township offices with 
honor to himself and satisfaction to his constituents. 
He and his wife are members of the East Buffalo 
Presbyterian Church, in which he has been an 
elder since 1885. When the Farmers and Me- 
chanics Bank was organized, he assisted in placing 
the stock, along with Dr. Roberts, and was chosen 
one of the directors. .Mr. Ramsey is a self-made 
man in all respects, having, unaided, worked his 
way up from the bottom rung of the ladder of suc- 
cess; and beginning life a poor boy, with no capi- 
tal save brains and a willing pair of hands, assist- 
ed by an indomitable perseverance, he is now the 
owner of 225 acres of fair farm land. He is a 
man of firm convictions, having the courage in all 
contests of standing and fighting for what he 
deems to be right and for the good of his fellow- 
men. 



LUKE P. BEAZELL is a son of William 
Beazell, the oldest voter in Fallowfield 
township, who was born February 22, 1807, 
in Allegheny county, Penn., a son of Luke 
Beazell, whose mother was of Irish birth, and father 
a native of Germauy. Luke Beazell was born in 
1773, in Westmoreland county, Penn., and when a 
young man was married to Elizabeth English, also 
a native of Westmoreland county. Ten children 
were born to this union, of whom one son and 
three daughters are yet living, namely: William, 
Catherine (Mrs. Ails), Mary (Mrs. Smith), and 
Eliza (unmarried). Luke Beazell, who always 
followed farming, died in 1857. 

William Beazell learned the shoemaker's trade, 
which he has followed in connection with farming. 
On May 6, 1830, he married Susan West, a native 
of Fallowfield township, this county, and they 
have had seven sons and three daughters, viz. : 
Leander N. (deceased, served three years in the 



952 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



army). Elmira, R. West, Luke P., Margaret E., 
Mary L., William H., John S., R. W. B. (de- 
ceased) and Samuel. Mr. Beazell owns ten acres 
of land located four and one half miles from Mo- 
nongahela City. He has filled almost every public 
office in Fallowfield township. 

Luke P. Beazell was born January 19, 1839, on 
the home farm in Fallovvfield township, and first 
attended the common schools, completing his edu- 
cation at Monongahela City, Penn. In 1861 he 
enlisted in Company D, Seventy-ninth Regiment, P. 
V. I., under Captain McBride; they were first sent to 
Louisville, Ky. , and took part in the battle of 
Perryville, then inarched into Tennessee, and 
fought at Stone River; from the latter place 
they followed Bragg to Chickamauga, and after 
that engagement returned to Tennessee, taking 
part in the battles of Lookout Mountain and Mis 
sionary Ridge. At this time Mr. Beazell re-enlisted, 
and being assigned to the same division, joined in 
the contest at Buzzards Roost, Ga. ; then remained 
with Sherman until the capture of Atlanta, after- 
ward accompanying him in his famous march to 
the sea. Luke P. Beazell also fought in the battle 
of Bentonville, where his division had to confront 
Johnston's entire army, and, finally, participated 
in the grand review at Washington, D. C. He 
was promoted during Sherman's raid to the rank 
of lieutenant, and July 12, 1865. received an hon- 
orable discharge. After the war Mr. Beazell re- 
turned home to Washington county, and opened a 
planing mill at Monongahela City. On August 
HO, 1866, he was married to Josephine, daughter 
of John MeCrory, and she has borne him the fob 
lowing children: Effie, Harry, Albert, Lillie, 
Josie May, Bessie' and Bertha; of this family 
Harry. Lillie and Bertha are yet living. After 
his marriage Mr. Beazell opened a saw and 
planing mill at Coal Centre, and then conducted a 
tannery business for three years. He afterward 
opened a meat market, which he kept for twenty 
years, and is now a partner in and superintendent 
of the California Glass Company, dealing also in 
agricultural implements. In political matters he 
votes with the Republican party, and has held 
many borough offices; he has served for fourteen 
years as trustee of the Southwestern State Normal 
School at California. He is a member and trustee 
of the Disciple Church. Socially he is a member 
of Harry Billingsley Post, No. 168, G. A. R., hav- 
ing joined the post as a charter member in 1867. 



\ILLIAM C. ANDERSON, a prominent 
business man of Claysville. is a native of 
this county, born April 5, 1 S3 1 , on the 
Stevenson farm in Donegal township. 
He is a son of Benjamin Anderson, who was 
born in 1789 in [reland, and came with his parents 




to America and to Washington county. Penn., 
where his boyhood was passed on the pioneer farm. 
In the war of 1812 he was captain of a company of 
drafted infantry, First Regiment of Pennsylvania 
Militia, and was afterward promoted to the rank of 
colonel. In 1816 he was married to Margaret 
Cook, daughter of Gen. James Stevenson, a civil 
engineer of Pennsylvania, who was born July 25, 
1755; he was a soldier in the Revolutionary war. 
and was taken prisoner by the British and con- 
fined in a prison ship. To Benjamin and Marga- 
ret C. Anderson were born eight children: Ann 
Eliza, Mrs. John Moore, of Buffalo township, who 
died at the age of thirty-five years; James Steven- 
son, a farmer of Donegal township; Thomas Love, 
who died March 7, 1892; Nancy Jane, deceased at 
the age of nineteen; Catharine, Mrs. Jonathan 
Brownlee, of Buffalo township; William Cook- 
Mary Melila, deceased at the age of nineteen, and 
John, who died when seven years old. Col. An- 
derson passed the first five years of his married 
life on the old home farm, situated about three 
miles west of West Middletown, in Hopewell town- 
ship. He then moved to Donegal township, set- 
tling about one mile west of Claysville, along the 
National pike, where he owned 250 acres of land, 
which became his permanent residence. He was 
a stanch Democrat, and, besides holding different 
township offices, he was elected county commis- 
sioner in 1836. He was brigade inspector of 
Washington county for seven years. Col. Ander- 
son and his wife were members of the South 
Buffalo United Presbyterian Church. He died in 
1861, Mrs. Anderson in 1875. 

William C. Anderson was reared and educated 
on the home place in Donegal township, and at 
the age of fifteen years commenced clerking for 
Joel Truesdell, with whom he remained two years. 
He then entered into partnership with James G. 
Noble, of Claysville, and two years later went to 
Cameron, W. Va., remaining with William McCon- 
aughy for three years. In 1856 he dissolved 
partnership with Mr. Noble, and passed one year 
with Samuel Prother, in Wheeling, W. Va. In 
1856 William C. Anderson was married to Eliza, 
daughter of John Simpson, of Wheeling, W. Va. , 
and they had the following children: Dr. John 
B., Sara (Mrs. William H- Lester), Mary, Dr. 
Thomas (a. physician in Mansfield, Penn.), Robert 
and William. Of these children. Mrs. Lester 
was a missionary in Santiago, Chili, S. A., but 
died after a few years' work in the service of her 
Master, beloved by all both for her beauty of 
character and person. Her only son, Harold, ar- 
rived in this county in January, 1893, making his 
third trip to and from his Southern home, at the 
age of eight and one-half years. His language is 
Spanish, which he speaks and writes fluently with 
the language of his father and mother. He will 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



053 



remain to continue his education in the United 
States. Soon after his marriage, Mr. Anderson 
engaged in general merchandise in West Alex- 
ander, Donegal township, and ten years later 
came to Claysville, where he bought out Schroutz, 
Martin & Brokman, and is still conducting the 
business. His success is due to his own efforts, 
and he is one of the leading men of Claysville. 
Politically he is an active member of the Demo 
cratic party. He and his family are. among the 
leading members of the Presbyterian Church. 



to 



SAAC LYTLE. Robert Lytle was born in 
Scotland, his family removing to Ireland when 
he was fifteen years old. Being dissatisfied 
he ran away from home at that age, and came 
America, locating in Westmoreland county, 
Penn., which was on the extreme border <if civiliza- 
tion. He there grew up to manhood, and married 
Anne Mason, adopted daughter of Joseph Markle, 
formerly governor of this State. Her own parents 
had been massacred by the Indians, and their 
house burned to ashes, Rhe and ;i little brother 
witnessing the sad scene from a distance and un- 
observed by the Indians. They ran to the nearest, 
sett-lenient, which was that of Mr. Markle, and be 
ing alone and friendless in the world, he immedi 
ately adopted them as members of his own family. 
After the marriage of Robert Lytle to Anne Mason 
they came to Allegheny county, Penn., and patented 
415 acres of land on the waters of Peters creek. 
The tract was called Littleton, for which the patent 
was granted December 11, 1784. To them were 
born fourteen sons and one daughter, of whom are 
named, Samuel, Robert, David, John, Joseph, 
George, Isaac and Abraham (twins), Benjamin. 
William and Elizabeth (afterward Mrs. Holcroft), 
none of whom are now living. 

Joseph Lytle was born in 1700, at the old home- 
stead in Allegheny county, Penn. He married 
Margaret Murphy, of Washington county, and re- 
moved to Mercer county, same State, but after 
some years returned to the old homestead in Alle- 
gheny county. Joseph died leaving five children, 
viz.: Benjamin, Anne, Sarah, Isaac and Mary, 
Isaac being the only surviving member of the 
family at this time. 

Isaac Lytle, the subject of this sketch, born May 
25, 1824, removed with his widowed mother to 
Washington county when he was about seventeen 
years of age. Shortly afterward he took charge of 
a store for Graham, Giltillan & Co., on the Mo- 
nongahela pike, viz., Myers'. Remaining there a 
year, he removed the stock of goods to Brownsville, 
and enlarging the business remained there one 
year, which was in 1845. On December 31, 1846, 
Isaac Lytle was married to Eliza Jane Gaston, 
daughter of William Gaston, of Gastonville. Wash- 



ington county. After their marriage he gave his 
attention to farming, in 1858 purchasing and lo- 
cating the farm on which they now reside, at 
Gastonville, Washington county. Squire Lytle 
(as he is generally called) is a stanch member of 
the Democratic party, and served as jubtice of the 
peace from 1860 to 1865. He is steward and 
trustee of the M. E. Church, with which he is 
identified. The children of this family are nine 
in number, viz., Frances 1)., Marian V., James 
Warren, Susan E., Robert C, William Gaston, 
Harry M. , Ethel W. and George Herbert, all of 
whom are living. 




N. HATHAWAY, a prominent citizen and 
prosperous agriculturist of Franklin town- 
ship, was born June II, 1856, on the farm 
of his father. Jacob Hathaway, the first 
of the family name of whom there is any 
authentic record, was born in Pennsylvania, and in 
early life came to Washington county, where he 
made the first improvements in the vicinity, sur- 
rounded by fierce animals and roaming Indians. 
Here the following children were born to him: 
Jacob, Richard, Thomas, Benjamin, Joseph, John, 
and one daughter, who was captured by the In- 
dians when a child and adopted by them. On ar- 
riving at womanhood she was married to one of the 
tribe, and she passed the remainder of her life 
with the children of the forest. Mr. Hathaway 
was connected with the church from the date of its 
earliest organization, and in politics he was a Fed- 
eralist. 

John Hathaway, son of the pioneer Jacob, was 
born in Morris township, Washington Co., Penn., 
and attended the rate schools of that period. In 
early manhood he was united in marriage with 
Electa, daughter of Timothy Lindley, and she bore 
him two children: Jackson and Benjamin Frank- 
lin. After their marriage the young people re- 
mained for a time on the home farm, and in 1838 
moved to Greene county, Penn., where they re- 
sided until 1844, when they came to Washington 
county, and about one year afterward moved to the 
village of Ten Mile. For his second wife John 
Hathaway married Selena Bratton, and the chil- 
dren born to this union were Jane Ann (Mrs. Ja- 
cob Yoders) and James. Politically Mr. Hatha- 
way was a Whig, taking an active interest in the 
affairs of his party. The family were members of 
the Baptist Church. Mr. Hathaway died at the 
home of his daughter at an advanced age. 

Jackson Hathaway was born in Morris township, 
this county, and was educated in the common 
schools of the neighborhood. On May 11, 1848, 
he was married to Martha, daughter of James Gor- 
don, of Washington county, and they have had 
seven children: William, John. Lenard, Daniel, 



954 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Nelson, Sarah and Mary. In politics Mr. Hatha- 
way was formerly a Whig, and is now an active 
Republican. 

A.. N. Hathaway, the subject proper of this mem 
oir, received a liberal common -school education, 
ami in early life he commenced business for him- 
self. On December 26, 1882, he was married to 
Belle, daughter of Jacob and Jenny Yoders, of 
Greene county, Penn., who were the parents of 
seven children, viz. : Anna, Maggie, William, 
John, David, Newton and Minnie. To the mar- 
riage of A. N. and Belle (Yoders) Hathaway the 
following children have been born: Clarence, Mat 
tie, Frank and Eddie Mr. Hathaway has always 
been a Republican, prominently identified with the 
party. He purchased his present residence in 1889, 
and now owns one of the best farms in his vicinity. 



J|OHN F. SCHUONTZ. a typical self-made 
business man, and a prominent agriculturist 
| of Washington county, whose highly im- 
proved farm of 200 acres, in South Strabane 
township, is situated one mile from Washing- 
ton borough, is a native of the county, having been 
born in Amwell township March 2, 1828. His 
grandfather, John Schrontz, a native of Wurtem- 
berg, Germany, was a merchant tailor of consider- 
able repute in the Fatherland. In 1804 he came 
to the United States with his family, and for a 
short time they had their residence in Harmony, a 
small town in Beaver county, Penn. From there 
they moved to Hamilton county, Ohio, where they 
remained one year, and then came to Washington 
county, where the grandparents passed the remain- 
der of their days. 

They had two children. John F., father of our 
sketch, being the elder. He was born in Wurtem 
berg. Germany, in the year 1781, and there learned 
the tailor's trade, which he followed in his native 
land until he was about twenty one years of age, 
when he set sail for America, the voyage occupying 
about three months. Landing in Baltimore, Md.. 
he sojourned but a few days, and then came to 
Washington county, Penn., where he remained a 
few days, and then proceeded to Harmony, Beaver 
county, soon after which he entered 160 acres of 
land in Hamilton county, Ohio. This property he 
soon afterward exchanged for a farm in West Beth- 
lehem township, this county, which in a few years 
he sold, and in IS 17 purchased a homestead in Am- 
well township, where lie ended his days; he bought 
another farm in the same towuship, which he also 
retained. In 1S11 Mr. Schrontz married Eliza 
beth, daughter of Jacob Schidler, and the children 
born to this union were Catherine (wife of Zebulon 
1'Vtrel] ), Reginal wife of Thomas Baldwin), George, 
Jacob (living in Ohio), Eliza (wife of .John Feath 
erland), Ann (wife of David Friend), and John F 



The mother of this family dying in 1839, Mr. 
Schrontz married, in 1842, forhis second wife, Sarah 
Titus, of Buffalo township, this county, who bore 
him one child, Frank T. The father was called 
from earth in 1863, aged eighty-two years, a mem- 
ber of the Disciple Church, of which society at 
Pleasani Valley he was one of the organizers, from 
which time he was an elder and one of its most 
zealous supporters. In politics he was a Whig, 
and was a leader and counselor in the party. 

John F. Schrontz passed his boyhood at the 
home of his birth, receiving at the subscription 
schools of the locality a liberal education, which 
was greatly improved by after reading on his part. 
For several years he was engaged in farming. 
After leaving the place of his birth in 1864, Mr. 
Schrontz resided in Amwell township some years, 
and then moved to Union township, remaining 
there one and one-half years, and thence proceeded 
to Allegheny county, same State, where he was in 
business twelve years; then came to Somerset 
township, this county, thence to Middletown„ re- 
maining two years; thence to West Bethlehem 
township, and from there after a year's stay to 
Amwell township; here he remained one year, and 
then proceeded to Claysville, in which village he 
was in business four years, at the end of which 
time he came to his present place in South Stra- 
bane township. On February 12, 1861, Mr. 
Schrontz married Nancy, daughter of Samuel 
Blackmore, of Peters township, and the children 
born to this union are Frederick (living in Tully, 
N. Y.), Annie, Charles, Lizzie and Emma. The 
mother of this family dying in 1874, Mr. Schrontz 
married on May 11, 1875, Nancy Griffith, daugh- 
ter of John Griffith, of East Finley township, this 
county, and their children are John F. and Clark. 
The family are all members of the Disciple Church, 
in which Mr. Schrontz has been an active worker; 
politically he has always been a zealous adherent 
of the Republican party. 



J (AMES, JOHN and JOSIAH BLYTHE are 
sons of William and Mary S. (Marshall) 
j Blythe, the former of whom, a farmer by 
occupation, was born on the old family farm 
in Fallowtield township, Washington Co., 
Penn., in 1800. 

William Blythe was a son of James Blythe, a 
native of the North of Ireland, whence, in company 
with his brothers, John and Harry, he emigrated 
to America James settled on the farm that yet 
remains in the family, in Fallowtield township, 
this county; John near what is now Fayette City, 
Fayette Co., Penn., while Henry went to Ohio, 
thence to the South. They were all Scotch Irish 
Presbyterians. William married Mary S. Mar 
shall, a native of Cross Creek township, Washing 




(zM^pzt<i /ib£jf&^s^ 




1 1 • . I SHING TON CO UNTY. 



957 



ton county, born in 1809, a daughter of James K. 
and Rebecca (Hanover) Marshall, the father a na- 
tive of Ireland, whence, when but a child, his 
parents brought him to this country, and to Cross 
Creek township, this county. He was a soldier in 
the war of 1812, and for his services to theGovern- 
nient was given a warrant for 160 acres of land. 
He and his wife were Presbyterians of Scotch-Irish 
ancestry. 

Mr. and Mrs. William Blythe were the parents 
of eight children— five sous and three daughters — 
viz. : James, Alexander F. (who died in June, 
1840, aged seven years), John, Emeline (who died 
in 1848, aged twelve years), Elmira (married to 
Smith Carson, and residing on their farm in Fal- 
lowtield township), Josiah, William F. (who was a 
soldier in the Civil war, having enlisted, when 
eighteen years of age, in the Sixth Heavy Artil- 
lery, Two Hundred and Twelfth Regiment P. V.. 
and died in November, 1864, of fever incurred 
through exposure in the field; he was unmarried), 
Harriet A. (married to Morgan Redd; they reside 
on their farm in Ohio). The mother died in Sep- 
tember. 1863, the father on January 31, 1883. 
He was the owner of 300 acres of land in Wash 
ington county, and 320 in the West. 

James Blythe, eldest son of William and Mary 
S. Blythe, is a prominent contractor, builder and 
lumber dealer in Monongahela. He was born No- 
vember9, 1831, in Fallowfield township, Washing- 
ton Co., Penn., on the old homestead farm, which 
he now owns, and which was the property of his 
father and grandfather before him. He remained 
on the farm until he was twenty years old. when 
ho came to Monongahela and followed the trade of 
a carpenter. On March 20. 1856, he was married 
in Monongahela to Miss Elizabeth Butler, who 
was born on her father's farm in Carroll township, 
three miles southeast of Monongahela, a daughter 
of Ira R. and Mary (Boyd) Butler, the former born 
in Chester county, the latter near Havre-de-Grace, 
Md. Mr. Butler was a Quaker, and was descended 
from the followers of William Penn. The latter 
gave 1,000 acres to the family ancestor in Chester 
county, and a lot in Philadelphia, which latter is 
still in the possession of the family. The late 
Gen. Benjamin F. Butler was of the same family. 
In 1859 James Blythe moved to the old homestead 
farm in Fallowfield township, which he purchased 
in 1869. In 1876 he engaged in the lumber busi- 
ness under the firm name of Foster, Blythe & 
Neel. In 1884 he moved into Monongahela, where 
he has since resided. He and his wife have had 
children as follows: William H.. burgess of Char- 
leroi, and engaged in real estate and farming (he 
married Miss Joanna Carson, who died in 1871, 
and they had one daughter, Millie); Ira R., a 
farmer owning a farm near Scenery Hill. Bethle- 
hem township (he married Miss Josephine Carson, 



and they have five children: Cora, Luella, Alpha, 
James and Russell); and Mary A., residing with 
her parents. Mr. Blythe is a member of Henry 
M. Phillips Lodge, A. F. <fe A.M. He is a Repub- 
lican, and has held various offices of trust, includ- 
ing president of the select and common councils. 
In October, 1862, he enlisted in Company I, One 
Hundred and Fifty-fourth P. V. I., serving until 
July, 1863, and was first sergeant of his company. 
Mr. and Mrs. Blythe are members of the M. E. 
Church, and rank among the leading citizens of 
their town. 

John Blythe, third son of William and Mary S. 
Blythe, was born on the old farm in Fallowfield 
township. He is a prominent architect and lum- 
ber merchant of Monongahela. He has been twice 
married, first to Miss Martha Pierce, by whom he 
had four children, only one of them surviving, 
Lorena, a thoroughly accomplished and well-edu- 
cated young lady. She spent one year in an art 
school in Paris, France, and now resides in Mo- 
nongahela. Her mother died in 1867, and Mr. 
Blythe then married Miss Lavina Campbell, by 
whom he has two children. Harry and May. 

Josiah Blythe, fourth son of William and Mary 
S. Blythe, was born on the old home farm in Fal- 
lowfield township. When he was a youth his 
father purchased a farm in Carroll township, this 
county, to which Josiah removed, and has here 
since resided. At the death of his father he 
bought the interest in this farm of the remaining 
heirs. In 1872 he married MissNannieS. Teeters, 
of Monongahela, a daughter of Abraham and 
Fauny S. Teeters, and to this union have been 
boru six children, as follows: William J.. Minnie 
C, Lulu V., Sallie E., Laura V. and Norman B., 
all yet living under the parental roof. Mr. Blythe 
is a thorough French scholar, speaking the Ian. 
gnage fluently, as well as reading and writing it. 
He is a Republican, and takes an active iuterest in 
all political matters. He and his wife are members 
of the Methodist Church. He is engaged in gen- 
eral agriculture, including stock raising, and 
makes a specialty of Poland China swine. He is 
also interested in other fine stock, including fancy 
poultry, turkeys and geese, of which he breeds 
many fine specimens of different varieties. 



AMUEL McFARLAND (deceased) was the 
sou of Samuel McFarland, who was born 
in Northern Ireland, and was married to 
Jane Fulton. He (the father) emigrated 
to America about the year 1793, first living in or 
about Philadelphia, Penn., then coming to Wash- 
ington, Penn., and settling in Smith township. 
On April 6, 1804, he bought 159 acres of land of 
Thomas Glass, and on September 3, of the same 
year, purchased 102 acres of Ephraim Chidester. 



958 



WASHINGTON VOUN TY. 



He settled upon the former piece of land, and liis 
family were all horn and reared there. The farm 
remained hi the family name until about the year 
1890, when the heirs of his son Thomas sold it to 
Maxiel Work. The children of Samuel McFarland 
are now all dead except Andrew. . The son Will 
iam settled upon one of his father's farms, near 
the home place. John settled on another farm, 
sold it and removed to Ohio. David, a Presbyte- 
rian minister, was married to Amanda Reed, 
first located in Peoria, 111., then at Santa Fe, N. 
lU. ; then at San Diego, Cal., and finally be- 
came a missionary to the Indians, and died at 
Lapwai, Idaho; his widow afterward went into 
the Alaska mission field, being the first woman 
there. Joseph went to California during the gold 
fever of 1849, and died there. Thomas lived on 
the old home farm until a few years before his 
death, then removed to the borough of McDonald 
in the same county, where he died in December, 
1886. Andrew spent most of his life in Cross 
Creek village, Washington county, then removed 
to Burgettstown, and thence to Missouri, where 
he is living with his son. Mary never married, 
but died in the household of her brother Samuel 
in 1859. Catherine married Thomas Farrar, and 
died in 1880 at the residence of her daughter in 
Peoria, 111. Jane married James Farrar, and 
afterward died in Ohio. 

Samuel McFarland, the subject of this sketch, 
was born June 11, 1812, in Smith township, 
Washington Co., Penn., and all his life was spent 
in that township and the adjoining one of Robin 
son. except the year 1872, when he lived in the 
city of Allegheny. On May 25. 1837, he was 
united in marriage with Jane Van Eman, who bore 
him children as follows: Margaret, born January 
28, 1838; William Van Eman, born March 11, 
1840; Sarah Caroline, born August 12, 1842; Mary 
Catherine, born December 29, 1844; John Wiley, 
born August 23. 1848, and Joseph Fulton, born 
August 11. 1850. Of this family, Margaret mar 
ried Thomas Donaldson, of Candor, December 18, 
1862, and had nine children, of whom three are 
now living: Joseph, John and Frank. William 
Van E. married Jane Dunbar, of Steubenville. 
Ohio, and to them were born three children: Olner, 
Charles and Ira (Olner died when three years old. 
in Washington county, Penn.; William then moved 
with his family to Sumner, Wash., where he still 
resides; his wife died in 1893). Sarah Caroline 
married October 21. 1868, W. C. Aiken, an elder 
in the Centre U. P. Church, of Midway, Penn. 
(their children were Joseph and Samuel; the 
mother died April 3, 1873. and two years later 
little Samuel died). Mary Catherine married An 
gust 22, 1807. James l'\ McCalmont, of Paris. 
Washington county, an elder in the IT. P. Church, 
and they had born to them six children: Luella, 



Jennie, Samuel, Joseph, John and Robert. Rev. 
John Wiley was married in 1883, at Ft. Wrangle, 
Alaska, to Margaret Dunbar, of Steubenville. 
Ohio (they gave a few years of mission work at the 
McFarland Home, Ft. Wrangle, Alaska; at their 
own request they were transferred to the Hoonyah 
Mission, Alaska, where they still labor, the first 
and only missionaries in that far-off region; their 
children were Edna and Harry Seward, the last 
named dying of diphtheria in his third year, and 
buried in the Hoonyah Mission cemetery). Joseph 
F. , now an attorney at law in Washington, Penn., 
was married in 1882 to Mary A., daughter of Rev. 
James and Katherine Ranken, and their children 
are Samuel Audley and Joseph. Mrs. Jane Van- 
Eman McFarland died August 24, 1853, and, for 
his second wife, Samuel McFarland was married 
May 22, 1861, to Matilda Duncan, who was killed 
by a run away team April 23, 1865. On Decem- 
ber 25, 1866, Mr. McFarland was married to his 
third wife, in the person of Margaret Bingham, 
and by this union, one son, Albert Agnew, was 
born January 6, 1872. Mr. McFarland was a 
farmer, but during the last sixteen years of his 
life, was retired from active business, and during 
all the years of his activity he was a constant suf- 
ferer; he was a member of the Presbyterian Church 
from early manhood, contributing liberally to its 
support, and was interested in all its work. In 
politics he was an unswerving member of the 
Democratic party, but was not an active politician, 
and never asked for any office. He died June 29, 
1889. 

Samuel McFarland, a nephew of our subject, 
and son of William, was a missionary in Siam, and 
is now filling a position in the Educational De- 
partment of the Court of Siam. 

Capt. Charles W. Bingham was an officer in the 
army in the war of 1812. He was born in Adams 
county, remaining there during his boyhood and 
early manhood, and was married to Margaret Ag- 
new, of Emmitsbuiir, Frederick Co.,Md.,who bore 
him children as follows: Sophia, William, Agnew, 
Albert, Martha. Margaret, James. Emma, Mary, 
and Charles Carrol. Of this family, all are dead 
but Margaret, Dr. James (of Clinton, Alleghenv 
Co.. Penn), Emma (wife of Dr. W. V. Riddile), 
and Mary. The father was a Democrat, and a 
member of the Presbyterian Church. Margaret 
Bingham, above mentioned, is the widow of Samuel 
McFarland, the subject of this sketch. 



\ILLIAM PARCEL was born March 30, 

1819, in Morris township, Washington 

wlMI G°-< P e Q Q t and ' s a representative of an 

— ' early pioneer family of the county, who 

were originally natives of New Jersey. 

His grandfather. John Parcel, was three times 

married, and by his first wife had six children — 




WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



959 



three sons and three daughters — all of whom went 
West with the exception of one daughter; by the 
second wife there were two children, Stephen and 
Phebe; by the third marriage there were no chil 
dren. John Parcel died at. the age of eighty nine 
years, his last wife having preceded him to the 
grave some time. 

Stephen Parcel, son of this old pioneer, was 
born in 1789 in Washington county. He learned 
the blacksmith's trade, which he followed in his 
earlier days at Point Industry, Morris township. 
Later he conducted a mercantile business at the 
same place, and during the latter years of his life 
gave his attention to farming. He was very success- 
ful in each of his vocations, and accumulated a con- 
siderable fortune. Early in life he married Miss 
Dorcas Ambler, of Belmont county, Ohio, daughter 
of William Ambler, and they became the parents 
of ten children, as follows: John and Sally, both 
deceased; Phoebe, widow of John Gardner, of 
Bellefontaine, Ohio; William, the subject of this 
sketch; Stephen, Isaac and Dorcas, all three de- 
ceased; Elizabeth Jane, widow of Lewis Hoge. and 
now living at the old home (she has one son, James 
Lewis); and Samuel Ambler aud Solomon Lee, 
both deceased. The father died July 4, 1844. tin- 
mother a year later, both at the age of fifty-four 
years. The Parcel family were at one time mere 
bers of the Mount Herman Baptist Church, later 
of the Beulah Baptist Church. In his political 
preferences he was an Old-line Whig. 

William Parcel received his education in the 
subscription school of the neighborhood, which 
was held in an old log dwelling. He was reared 
to agricultural pursuits, and now owns and resides 
on the farm which was owned by both his father 
and grandfather, and which is a valuable property, 
located one mile southwest of Sparta. With the ex- 
ception of twelve years devoted to general mer- 
chandising at Point Industry (now Sparta) Mr. 
Parcel has given his exclusive attention to farm- 
ing. Success has crowned his honest efforts, and 
he is now the possessor of a comfortable compe- 
tence. He has never married. His sister Eliza- 
beth Jane lost her husband some thirty -five years 
ago, and she has since lived with our subject. In 
1871 Mr. Parcel was elected a justice of the peace 
on the Republican ticket, in a Democratic town- 
ship, which speaks volumes for his popularity, 
especially when it is considered that he was again 
nominated, though he declined re-election. In 
church connection he is a Baptist. 



I( NDERSON HOOTMAN, a well-read and in- 
1\ telligent citizen of Amwell township, is a 
^\ grandson of David Hootman. who was of 
German birth, and as a soldier in the pay 
of the British came to America during the 
Revolutionary war. No sooner did an opportunity 




offer, however, than the brave young German de- 
serted from the British ranks and enlisted as a 
drummer boy with the patriots in their struggle 
for liberty. After the close of the war he re- 
mained in America, locating on a farm in Donegal 
township, Washington Co., Penn., where as a 
true patriot he resided from 1780 until his death, 
which occurred in 1859. The young soldier ap- 
preciated liberty so highly that he never drew any 
pay for his service in the cause of liberty. After 
settling on his farm he married, and had children 
as follows: sous — Henry, Jacob. John, David and 
Christopher; daughters — Mis Miller, Mrs. Shaler 
and Mrs. Deeds. Mr. Hootman was a Democrat, 
aud held several offices in the district in which he 
resided. 

David Hootman, father of the subject of this 
sketch, was born in 1793 in Donegal township, 
where he passed his youthful days. He attended 
the rate school in the neighborhood of his home, 
and became a well informed and successful man. 
When about the age of seventeen years he learned 
the blacksmith's trade, and after serving an ap- 
prenticeship of four years he opened a shop on the 
Monongahela pike at the then well-known "Par- 
kinson House. " In 1 8 1 5 David Hootman was united 
in marriage with Nancy, daughter of Benjamin 
Parkinson, of Nottingham township, and she bore 
him nine children, viz.: sous— Benjamin, David, 
John, Christopher. William aud Anderson; and 
daughters— Clarinda, Polly and Nancy. David 
Hootman began life with 0J cents, and at his death 
his estate was valued at $40,000. For years he was 
captain in the State militia, and at one time he was 
a candidate for the State Legislature, but, having 
been prominent in advocating the Jefferson doc- 
trine, he was defeated. He and his wife were for 
many years members of the Pigeon Creek Presby- 
terian Church. 

Benjamin Parkinson, father of this Mrs. David 
Hootman. took a very active part in the Whiskey 
Rebellion, which rising was the cause of the re- 
peal of the excise law, a statute at that time too 
grievous and burdensome for the then West to bear. 
The document containing Parkinson's pardon, 
granted by George Washington, is still in the pos- 
session of the Hootman family. 

Anderson Hootman, the subject proper of this 
brief memoir, was born on February 27, 1832, in 
Nottingham township, this county, and spent his 
early youth on the home farm, receiving his educa- 
tion in the common schools of his district, and re- 
maining under the parental roof until he was 
twenty-five years of age. In 1859 he was married 
to Emily Leysa, of Somerset township, and the 
names of the children born to this union are David • 
A., Mary F., John E.. Lizzie B., Maximilian, 
Nancy K.. William A., Franklin W., Osceola (de- 
ceased), O. Vern and Harry H. Some time aftor 



960 



W.\SHI.X<;T<>.\ <i)IX T)\ 



his Qiarriage Anderson Boatman moved to Monon- 
gahela City, and engaged in mercantile business, 
but sickness in the family compelled him to close 
his store and return to the farm. Twenty four 
years ago he came to his present home, where lie 
has since remained industriously engaged in agri- 
cultural pursuits. He has accumulated a comfori 
able property on the Cumberland pike in Amwell 
township, and also owns one hundred acres in 
South Strabane township. Mr. Hootman has al- 
ways been a patriotic Democrat, and as a close ob 
server of the financial issues of the country, is now 
in favor of a Third, or People's, party, in order to 
protect the mass of American industry, as he is 
of the opinion that the two great national parties 
have diverged too far from the cause his grand- 
father fought for. Mis. Hootman and a portion 
of the family are members of Mt. Pleasant Pres- 
byterian Church. 



DAVID McCLURE is a grandson of James 
| and Nancy (Crouch) McClure, who were 
' born in Scotland, whence they emigrated 
to Pennsylvania in an early day. They 
settled on a farm in North Strabane township, 
Washington county, where thirteen children were 
born to them, and where the father died in 1854. 
David McClure (father of our subject), a son of 
this pioneer couple, was born in the year 1802, in 
North Strabane township. He grew to manhood 
on the home farm, and in 1 823 was married to 
Mary Cameron, who was born in 1802, a resident 
of the same neighborhood. Eleven children were 
born to them, of whom the following are living: 
James, David, Samuel, Mary, Joseph, Belle (wife 
of William Hickson), Martha (Mrs. Robert Kerr), 
William and Robert. Mr. McClure was a prosper- 
ous and influential farmer. In politics he affiliated 
with the Democratic party, and in religious con- 
nection both he and his wife were very active mem- 
bers of the old Pigeon Creek Presbyterian Church, 
with which they were connected many years. Mr. 
McClure died in 1871), having been preceded by 
his wife in 1X34. 

David McClure was born October 20, 1830. in 
North Strabane township, and was educated in 
I he schools of the vicinity. On November 10, 
ISIS, he was united in marriage with Nannie A. 
Thomas, who was born February 20, 1831, in North 
Strabane township, a daughter of Jonathan 
Thomas. Jonathan Thomas was born February 
Hi. 1803, in Washington county. Penn., and in 
1825 was united in marriage with Elizabeth Cow- 
yer, also a native of this county, born November 
9, 1806. Their family consisted of the following 
children: Elizabeth, wife of G. G. Good (of Wash- 
ington county, Ark.), Phoebe Martha. Maggie, 
Lydia, Liverton and Nannie A., all now deceased 



except Elizabeth, Liverton and Nannie A. Mr. 
Thomas was a prominent farmer and early settler 
of Washington county. In church connection he 
and his wife were devout members of the Centre 
Presbyterian Church. He died August 9, 1840, 
ami was followed by his wife December 27, 1869. 
Mr. and Mrs. McClure are the parents of nine 
children, namely: Mary (wife of William Willett) ; 
Maggie (Mrs. J. Smith): John Boyd (married to 
Miss Jennie Dunn); William W. (married to Miss 
Elizabeth Dunn); Allie B. (wife of George Nelson ) ; 
and Wheeler T. , Sadie M., David R. and Jennie 
(all four residing with their parents). Mr. Mc- 
Clure has been prominently identified with the 
political history of North Strabane township. In 
his political preferences he is a Democrat. He has 
been auditor of the township three years, road- 
commissioner thirteen years, and is a liberal con- 
tributor to all worthy enterprises. In religious 
connection he and his estimable wife are members 
of the United Presbyterian Church. 




[( RTHTJR CAMPBELL. This gentleman, 
l\ who stands among the first of the success- 
\\ ful and representative business men of 
Smith township, is a descendant of an old 
and well-known family of pioneer settlers 
Arthur Campbell (his grandfather) was born and 
reared in County Donegal, Ireland, where he was 
married, after which he emigrated to America. 
The young people came to Pennsylvania and lo- 
cated permanently on a farm in Smith township, 
Washington county, situated about two miles west 
of Burgettstown, then a wild and uncultivated 
tract of land. The following children were born 
to them: William (who moved to Jefferson county, 
Ohio, where he died), John (always lived on the 
home place), Robert (mentioned below), Arthur 
(married, and resided in Jefferson, then called 
Cross Creek, township), Joseph A. (a physician, 
who practiced in western Pennsylvania), Nancy 
(never married), Elizabeth (wife of James Gibson, 
of Hanover township), and Margaret (Mrs. Thomas 
Elder), all now deceased. Mr. Campbell accumu- 
lated a considerable property, and was a highly 
esteemed citizen. He died on the old homestead. 
Robert Campbell was born on the home place in 
Smith township, this county, and in boyhood he 
assisted in the farm duties, and attended the sub 
scription schools. In 1811 he was married to 
Jean, daughter of Ebenezer Smith, of Smith town 
ship Ibis county, and she bore him children as 
follows: Eleanor, born November 27, 1812 (be- 
came the first wife of Squire John Proudfit, of 
Burgettstown); Arthur, born January 20, 1815: 
Elizabeth, born June 20, 1818; Ebenezer, born 
May I. 1820; William, born December 2, 1822 
(wet to California, and has not been heard from 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



963 



for years); Martha, horn Deceinher 25, 1824, mar 
ried to John McGough; Margaret, born September 
25, 1827, married to Samuel Wilson, of near 
Gordonsville, Va. ; and James, born in 1829, died 
at the age of fourteen years. Of these children 
the only one yet living is Arthur. Mr. and Mrs. 
Campbell settled on a part of the old home farm 
where he became a very successful business man. 
Politically he was a member of the Democratic 
party. He died on the farm, and his widow, who 
survived him many years, passed her last, days 
among her children. 

Arthur Campbell received a limited education 
in the subscription schools of the neighborhood 
of his place of birth. On June 15, 1843, he was 
married to Eliza J. Proudfit, who was born Janu- 
ary 2, 1817, daughter of John P. Proudfit, an 
early settler of Smith township. Five children 
were born to their union, viz. : Jane E., at home; 
John L., a carpenter, living at home; Amanda M., 
at home, and who for the past two years has suf- 
fered from rheumatism so as to be unable to walk; 
Elizabeth C. , deceased in infancy, and Robert J., 
married to Lulu Mayo (a daughter of Frank and 
Margaret Mayo, residents of Ohio), and living in 
the old house on his father's farm. To them were 
born three little girls: Mary A., Ida M. and Nellie 
P. On December 8, 1892, Mrs. Eliza J. Campbell 
died suddenly of paralysis, and she is buried in 
the cemetery at Burgettstown. Mi - . Campbell re- 
mained on the old farm until he was twenty-seven 
years of age (at which time he married), and then 
moved to his present place, adjoining the old home 
where he was born. He is a very successful agri- 
culturist, and devotes some time to the raising of 
fine-bred stock. In politics he is a lifelong Dem- 
ocrat. His wife was a member of the U. P. 
Church at Burgettstown. 



fpVOBERT M. CARRONS. Leslie Carrons, 
lWy grandfather of the subject of this sketch, 
r\\ was a son °^ Daniel Carrons, who lived in 
JJ -^ County Down, Ireland, where he followed 
v the vocation of farmer. He died there in 

the latter part of the eighteenth century, leaving 
Leslie, his only child, with little inheritance save 
a good education, which, however, proved a suffi- 
cient capital for this brave son of "Old Erin." In 
1797 Leslie Carrons was married to Mary Cham 
bers, daughter of James and Mary Chambers, and 
of this union were born : Daniel, James and Mary, 
before the parents decided to emigrate from Ire- 
land and seek a home in the New World. The 
journey was made in about 1803, and the little 
family came to Pennsylvania, locating first at 
Chambers' Mills, Washington county, afterward 
removing to Amity, Amwell township, where they 
remained some years. In 1801 Mr. Carrons pur- 



chased the " Acheson" place of 164 acres, to which 
(a short time afterward i he added the " Stokley " 
tract of ninety acres, took possession, and there 
spent the remainder of his life in farming and con- 
ducting a distillery. After the family came to 
Pennsylvania three other children were born: 
Eliza (Mrs. Elkins), late of Iowa; Sarah, wife of 
Dr. James Stevens, of Washington county; and 
Robert, late of Henry county, Iowa. Mr. Car- 
rons was a self-made and public spirited man, and 
was always consulted by his neighbors for advice 
upon any troublesome question; he was very suc- 
cessful in business. Politically he was an Orange- 
man in Ireland, and a Democrat in America. He 
was a charter member of the Episcopal Church at 
Washington, and assisted in building it up. He 
died in 1851, his wife in 1876, in her ninety-eighth 
year. 

Robert Carrons, the father of our subject, was 
born in Amity, Amwell township, this county, 
October 12, 1812, and received in the common 
schools a fair education, which he afterward made 
the foundation of a broad and varied store of 
knowledge. In 1847 he moved to Henry county, 
Iowa, and began farming upon a half section of 
land, to which he added as opportunity offered, 
until at the time of his death he owned nearly one 
thousand three hundred acres. On October 4, 
1849, he was united in marriage with Jane Munce, 
daughter of Robert and Mary Munce, of South 
Strabane township, Washington Co., Penn., and 
of this union three children were born: Leslie, 
born January 4, 1851; Mary, born May 30, 1853; 
Robert M., born November 2, 1S54. Mr. Carrons 
was a conservative business man, who, unaided, 
gained enviable success. He was an enthusiastic 
Republican, yielding to no man in his loyalty to 
his party. He died in Iowa, December 7, 1883. 

Robert M. Carrons was born in Henry county, 
Iowa, and after attending the common schools 
until seventeen years of age, passed one year at an 
academy. When twenty two years of age he came 
to Washington county, Penn., spending one win- 
ter there. In 1877 he again returned to Wash- 
ington county, and began business for himself. He 
had been deeded his Uncle Daniel's interest in the 
farm, and some years afterward he bought out the 
heirs of his Uncle James. On October 4, 1877, 
Mr. Carrons married Emma Chambers, daughter 
of George and Catherine Chambers, and they are 
the parents of two children: Frank Leslie, born 
October 1, 1878, and Kate Jane, born May 20, 
1890. Our subject is radically independent in 
politics. He is now engaged in farming and stock 
raising; beginning with Black-top Merino sheep, 
he now breeds Ayrshire cattle, and has bought 
some high-priced stock, sparing no expense to se- 
cure the best. His first lot was purchased, in 1880, 
of Dr. Sturdevaut, of Massachusetts, and he has 



964 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 






now a herd of 100 head of this famous breed, said 
to be the largest herd of Ayrshires in the West, 
and the second largest in America. 



d(OHN B. HAINER, one of the successful farm- 
ers of West Bethlehem township, is a son 
) of G. H. Hairier, who was born in Germany, 
where he married Christina Loewer. They 
emigrated to this country and to Washington 
county, Penn. , in 1832, bringing with them the fol- 
lowing children: John B., Mary, Henry, Chris 
tina, Adam, Catherine and George; two other 
children — Elizabeth and Nicholas — were born in 
America. They are all living except Catherine. 
Nicholas and Adam are in the grocery business 
and live in New Castle, Penn. ; Elizabeth is in 
Wheeling, W. Va. ; Mary, George and Henry live 
iu Ohio, and Christina is in Indiana. 

John B. Hainer, son of the pioneer G. H. , was 
born January 26, 1816, in Germany, and attended 
the schools of his native land, being under one in- 
structor seven years. At the expiration of that 
time he was released from further attendance 
through the aid of influential friends, although the 
German law requires eight years' schooling for ev- 
ery boy. He then came to America with his father, 
and when nineteen years of age assisted in the 
cultivation of a farm in South Strabane township. 
He married Elizabeth Lauterbauch, who had also 
come to America, her father settliug in Washing- 
ton county. The following children have been 
born to them: Henry, John, George, Catherine, 
Adam, Jacob, Mary and Edward. Henry died at 
the age of twenty eight years; the remainder are 
residents of Washington county. 

Jacob Hainer was born in Canton township, this 
county, April 28, 1851. He now lives with his 
father. On October 17. 1874, he married Esther, 
daughter of Frederick Basel, and they have the 
following family: George. Annie. Sadie, Norman. 
Flora and Nellie, all yet under the paternal roof. 
Mr. Hainer and his father, who resides with him, 
are both stanch Republicans, and in religion all 
the family are members of the Lutheran Church. 



T'HE ARCHER FAMILY. Samuel Archer 
was born in Scotland in 1745. He, with a 
number of others, left that country on ac- 
count of religious persecutions, and went to 
Ireland, where he married Miss Nancy 
Thompson, about 1768. 

In 1770 he, together with many others, emigrated 
to America, arriving in the fall of that year in Bal- 
timore, at which place they separated, locating at 
different places. Mr. Archer seems to have had 
two brothers in the company who settled in sep;i 
rate localities. From different branches of the 



Archer family have sprung some of the eminent 
men of this country, who have occupied prominent 
positions in the national councils, they having oc- 
cupied seats in Congress with credit to themselves 
and honor to their country. Mr. Archer, soon 
after landing in America, removed to Carlisle, 
Penn., and took a claim to a tract of land. While 
he was building a house on his land, which was 
some distance from the settlement, a heavy snow- 
storm tilled the paths, and on his return in the even- 
ing he lost his way and remained in the woods all 
night; his feet were so badly frozen that amputa 
tion above the ankles became necessary. His faith 
fid dug laid down on his knees, which prevented 
his limbs from further freezing, and perhaps saved 
his life. He was confined to his house some two 
years before his limbs were healed. About eight 
years after this occurrence he removed from Car 
lisle to Cauonsburg, and about 1799 he removed to 
Brooke county, W. Va., to a farm lately owned by 
Samuel Hindman, now by Ross Wright, where he 
cultivated a nursery, being obliged to walk on his 
knees. His wife and two daughters died ami were 
buried on that farm. Mr. Archer died about 1819, 
near Independence. Penn., and is buried iu Mt. 
Hope Church cemetery. 

Ebenezer Archer, son of Samuel Archer, was 
born about 1770, and came with his parents to 
Washington county, Penn., when young. Iu 1794 
he married Miss Elizabeth Jordon, and removed to 
Brooke county, W. Va., in 1799, when he settled 
on the farm now owned by Mr. Roy Glass, his 
great-grandnephew, near the Eldersville road, 
about two miles east of Steubenville, Ohio. He 
died on that farm in 1814, and was buried in the 
Cross Creek United Presbyterian cemetery. Eben- 
ezer Archer was a very exemplary man, of great 
piety, and a ruling elder in the Associate (or Se- 
ceder) Church; a strong friend of peace and a good 
neighbor. 

Samuel Archer, son of Ebenezer Archer, was 
born near Canonsburg, Penn. , July 11,1 795, and 
came with his parents to Brooke county, W. Va. , 
when about four years old. In March, 1821, he 
married Miss Mary Lee, by which marriage he 
reared a family of six children — five sons and one 
daughter — their names being: Elizabeth, William 
Lee, Ebenezer, David Thompson, James and Sam- 
uel. In 1831 he bought the George Atkison farm, 
situated one half mile from the river, directly east 
of Steubenville. Ohio, where he long resided and 
filled positions of honor and trust in his neighbor- 
hood. After residing for a time at Washington 
and Burgettstown, Penn.. and at the home of his 
son, William L.. he returned to the old homestead 
in Brooke county. W. Va. , where he died at the 
home of his son James, August 14. 1SS7. at the 
advanced age of over ninety two years, honored 
and respected by all who knew him. His first wife 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



965 



died May 1, 1851; his second wife, who was Mrs. 
Jane (Parkhill) McNary, of Jefferson county, Ohio, 
died in December, 1861. 

William Lee Archer, the principal subject of 
this sketch, was born in Brooke county, W. Va., 
April 15, 1824. When he grew to manhood he 
attended the academy in Holiday's Cove, W. Va., 
thus obtaining a liberal education. After assisting 
in conducting his father's business some years, his 
father settled him on one of the choicest farms in 
the neighborhood, where he now resides. After 
manfully, by his own exertion, freeing himself from 
debt, he rose to be one of the honored and success- 
ful business men of Jefferson township, and none 
more richly deserve the enviable ruputatiou that 
they have won, than this representative citizen. 
On October 16, 1859. he was united in marriage 
with Miss Harriet Louisa, daughter of James 
Whiting, of Torrington, Litchfield Co., Conn., a 
representative of that famous family of Whitings 
whose history is inseparable with tbe early history 
of that State. Miss Whiting, with her early re- 
ligious training and education, and New England 
culture and refinement, was eminently qualified to 
make their home what it is — a "model home." 

As a result of their union children have been 
born as follows: Mary A., born September 2, 1861, 
died March 7, 1865; Lizzie J., born August 26, 
1863, died January 27. 1865; Nannie Lee, born 
November 25, 1865, died June 6, 1877; Harriet 
B., born May 2, 1871, and Susan O, born April 
26, 1874; the latter two have been educated at the 
best institutions of learning in the country. Mr. 
Archer and his family, true to the faith of their 
Se >tch Irish ancestry, are members and support- 
ers of the Presbyterian Church. 



MARY ANNGRABLE, an estimable lady of 
Bentleyville, is a representative of one of 
the old families of Washington county. 
II J She is a daughter of John Grable. a na- 
tive of the county, where his whole life 
was passed in farming. In early manhood Mr. 
Grable was united in marriage with Mary Carson, 
who was born September 8, 1796, and she bore 
him children, as follows: Julia A. (wife of John 
MeCormiek, of Washington county), Mary Ann 
(whose name opens this sketch). Julia A. (deceased), 
Jerome (also deceased) and Joel. After their mar- 
riage Mr. and Mrs. Grable settled in Fallowtield 
township, this county, where he died in 1822. 
Mrs. Grable was afterward married to Charles 
Farquhar, who was born August 6, 1800, and was 
by occupation a farmer and tanner. They passed 
their wedded life in Washington county, and here 
Mr. Farquhar died in 1871, being followed by his 
wife in 1881, in her eighty-fifth year. She left 
four children by this marriage: Elizabeth (born 



March 13, 1834), John G., Salome and Isabella, 
all of whom are deceased save Elizabeth. 

The Misses Mary Ann Grable and Elizabeth 
Farquhar have continued, since the death of their 
parents, to reside together on the old homestead. 
They have an abundance of this world's goods left 
to them by the industry and prudence of their 
parents, and are now only waiting the summons 
which will unite them on the other shore, in an un- 
broken family circle, never to part. 




[( LEXANDER TOTTEN is a native and proni- 
i\ inent citizen of Washington county, Penn., 
^i but in his veins Hows the warm blood of 
Spanish ancestors. William Totten passed 
the early portion of his life near Red river, 
Penn.. and afterward came to Hillsborough, Wash- 
ington county. He was a tanner, and also worked 
at various other employments. When a young 
man he was united in marriage with Nellie Hamil- 
ton, who bore him five children, all of whom are 
deceased. The father passed away in his ninety- 
fifth year, and his widow lived to celebrate her 
one hundred and fourteenth birthday. 

James Totten, the eldest son of William ami 
Nellie Totten, was born about tin' year 1761 on the 
place in Washington county, Penn. He learned 
the blacksmith's trade, continuing in that business 
for twenty years, then settled on a farm. In per- 
sonal appearance he was large, portly, and good- 
looking. He must have been a worthy represent- 
ative of the gallant Spanish seiiors who never 
brook an insult, for at the age of eighty years he 
conquered the bully of Washington county, who 
had dared to call him a liar. In early manhood 
he was united in marriage with Margaret Fister, 
a resident of Upper Ten Mile creek. They were 
the parents of nine children, viz.: Sarah, Ellen, 
Hannah (deceased), George. Alexander, Henry, 
Marian (deceased), Almira (deceased) and Lavina. 
Alexander Totten was born September 18, 1826, 
near Bentleyville, Washington Co., Penn. His 
youth was passed on the home place, and he then 
len rned the blacksmith's trade, which he followed for 
three years. He afterward worked for almost forty 
years at carpentry, and since 1848 has given his 
time to contracting. On August 12, 1846, he was 
married to Elizabeth Richey, of Washington 
county, Penn., and they had three children: Sarah, 
Mary, and an infant. The mother died in 1853. 
and on March 16, 1858. Alexander Totten married, 
for his second wife, Mary Dick, a native of Alle- 
gheny, Penn. The children born to this marriage 
were: Alexander and Annie. This wife died in 
1863. and on April 14, 1864, he married Margaret 
Murphy, whose children were Maggie, James. Etta 
and an infant son, who was buried beside his 
mother in 1876. After the death of this wife Mr. 



966 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Totten married, September 21, 1883, Samautha 
Figley, of Washington county, who Las borne him 
five children, namely: Lillie, Robert, Katie, and 
Amelia and Adelia (twins). Mr. Totten has leased 
one hundred and twenty-eight acres of the home 
place; he owns a farm in Allegheny county, Penn. 
He votes with the Democratic party, and in Church 
relations was connected with the Baptist Society 
during his residence in Somerset township. 



T^HOMAS HUDSON WILLIAMS (deceased) 
was born August 8, 1 834, in Carroll town- 
ship, Washington Co., Penn., a son of James 
and Nancy (Manown) Williams. James 
Williams, whose father came from Ireland 
in an early day, was also a native of Washington 
county, born July 4, 1801, was educated at the 
subscription schools and reared to the occupation 
of a farmer. He married Nancy, daughter of 
William Manown, of Allegheny county, Penn., 
and the children born to them were as follows: 
William, Margaret (Mrs. A. C. Sampson), John, 
Thomas H., Sarah (Mrs. Aaron Browdy), Robert, 
Leomon, David and Frank. In 1828 Mr. Will- 
iams settled on the home place in Carroll township, 
and here died October 4, 1869, his widow follow 
ing him to the grave June 12, 1892. In addition 
to plain farming he was a prominent stock raiser 
and dealer. He was a director of the Mononga- 
hela cemetery. Politically he was originally a 
Whig, and on the formation of the party became 
a Bepublican; in matters pertaining to religion he 
was a member and zealous supporter of the M. E. 
Church. 

Thomas H. Williams, the subject of these lines, 
was educated at a private school in Monongahela, 
and at the age of sixteen entered Duff's Business 
College in Pittsburgh. On leaving this, in 1852, 
he set sail from New York for California, via Cape 
Horn, the voyage consuming six weeks. On his 
arrival at the "New Eldorado'' he at once com- 
menced to work in the mines, at which he contin- 
ued two years; then was engaged in banking at 
Maripoza, with Sullivan & Cashman, with whom 
he remained until 1S58, when he returned home 
by the same route he went. We next find Mr. 
Williams at Pittsburgh, where he was engaged in 
the wholesale grocery business for two years; from 
there he went to Oil City, where for fifteen years 
he was engaged in general merchandising and oil 
producing. In 1875 he returned to Monongahela, 
and purchased the home farm, where he passed the 
remainder of his days, dying June 11, 1891. On 
September 21, 1859, he was united in marriage 
with M. Frances, daughter of Aaron Browdy, of 
Allegheny, and four children were born to them, 
viz.: Harry, Mattie, Bertha (deceased), and Frances 
(living). Mr. Williams was a Republican, and at 



one time served as mayor of Monongahela; in 
church connection he was a prominent and influ- 
ential Presbyterian. In all educational matters he 
took special interest, and was instrumental in hav 
ing the present public-school building erected; 
being at the time secretary of the school board 
and president of the building committee. He was 
kind hearted and generous to a fault, and was 
recognized by all as a public-spirited, upright 
citizen. His widow is a resident of Monongahela. 



JfOSEPH HARRISON. Washington county 
is unusually favored with citizens who have 
I ever been as deeply interested in her progress 
as in their own, and who have taken an active 
part in the promotion of all public enter 
prises. Among this class of early settlers Har- 
rison is a familiar and honored name, the early 
representatives of the family, at present under con- 
sideration, having emigrated from England to 
Maryland many years ago. 

James Harrison remained there, and in early 
manhood he was united in marriage with Eliza- 
beth Hudgel, a native of Berkeley county, W. Va., 
who bore him the following children: William, 
James, George W. , Joseph (all born in Virginia), 
and Eliza, Mrs. Harriet Van Gilder (living in 
Centreville, Washington county) and Maria (de- 
ceased), all three born in East Bethlehem town- 
ship, Washington Co., Penn. Of this family Jo- 
seph and Harriet are the only ones yet living. In 
1817 the family came to Washington county, Penn., 
where the father settled on a farm near West 
Brownsville. He died in 1825, followed by his 
widow in 1861. In politics he was an active mem- 
berof the Whig party. Of their family, William pur- 
chased a farm in Iowa, near Oskaloosa.in 1868, and 
died in July, 1868, leaving his family in good cir- 
cumstances. James settled on a farm in Har- 
rison county, W. Va. , and died in 1892. George 
W. settled on a farm in East Bethlehem township, 
Washington county, and died in 1890. 

Joseph Harrison passed his youth in Washing- 
ton county, and at the age of eighteen years began 
to work for himself. After ten years' hard labor 
he and a brother invested in a farm near Logans- 
port, Cass Co., Ind. , but his health failing, Joseph 
induced his brother to sell the property. After 
disposing of the place they returned to Washing- 
ton county and bought a farm located on the Na- 
tional pike, near Brownsville. In 1867 he was- 
united in marriage with Orella Tower, daughter 
of G. H. Tower, a native of Massachusetts, who 
graduated from Brown University in 1776. studied 
law, went to Warren, Ohio, and won a wide repu- 
tation in his chosen work. Mr. and Mrs. Harrison 
are the parents of two children: Joseph Tower, 
and Mary Orella, who is now attending the Pitts 




"'%:, 




O^r 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



969 



burgh Female College. In a few years after their 
return to Washington county, Mr. Harrison bought 
his brother's interest iu the farm, which contains 
155 acres of valuable land, on which stands an 
imposing brick mansion erected in 1878, the most 
elegant structure to be seen for many miles. Mr. 
Harrison has been a very successful man, and his 
present prosperity has been due to his own indi- 
vidual effort, for he never received financial aid 
from any source. In politics he has always been a 
Whig and Republican, and of late years has been 
also a Prohibitionist. It has been seventy years 
since he has tasted whisky, and in looking over his 
past life he attributes his success in a great meas- 
ure to his temperate habits. 



«^i 



Miss Boon, was practically the founder of the pros- 
perous town of West Middletown. The warm 
blood of Irish patriots coursed through the veins 
of this pioneer, a worthy representative of his race. 
Galbraith Stewart was born in America, and early 
evinced the economical and industrious traits of 
his people. He learned the blacksmith's trade, and 
in early manhood was united in marriage with 
Elizabeth Scott (a native of Scotland), who with 
two other children was left an orphan at an early 
age. She was afterward brought to Pennsylvania 
by an uncle, and there grew to womanhood. Mr. 
Stewart secured a large tract of land, lying north 
of the present site of West Middletown, and after 
his marriage erected a shop and the first cabin of 
what afterward became West Middletown. It was 
situated on the north side of the road, which was 
much traveled by emigrants for Ohio county, Va., 
this being for some time the only building in the 
neighborhood. Plenty of custom came to the 
pioneer smithy, and when her household duties 
were done Mrs. Stewart would work the bellows, 
while her husband mended a chain or forged a 
bolt for the broken wagon of some traveler. 

As time passed on the place became a stopping 
point for westward bound emigrants, and Mr. Stew- 
art erected a more commodious building for the 
accommodation of travelers. The fire in the 
blacksmith shop died out as the labors of the tav- 
ern-keeper and his wife increased. Prosperity 
came to them, Mr. Stewart erected several other 
buildings, and the nucleus of West Middletown 
was formed. In after years "Grandma Stewart'' 
often declared to the children about her that 
the happiest days of -her life were passed in 
the little one- room cabin by the roadside. For 
in following the path of duty which lay before 
them, they found that priceless pearl for which 



T~5J LIZABETH M. BOON is a lady whose an 
yf-i cestors were among the earliest and most 
prominent pioneers of the county. Gal- 
J braith Stewart, the maternal grandfather of 



many a wealthy pleasure seeker has sought in 
vain — contentment. One by one little children 
came to bless their home, until eleven were gath- 
ered at their fireside, and only once did the angel 
of death hover over this happy pioneer family. 
Ten of the children lived to an adult age; seven of 
them were daughters: Eleanor (married to Thomas 
Boon), Mary (wife of Thomas McCall), Eliza (wife 
of Dr. David Adams), Margaret (married to James 
McFadden), Rebecca (Mrs. David McKennen), 
Harriet (wife of George Pentecost) and Clarissa 
(unmarried). The sons were William (married to 
Mary Cummins), Benjamin (married to Elizabeth 
Acheson) and Galbraith (married to Phcebe Mc- 
Keever). Of these, Clarissa is the only one still 
living; she is residing in the State of Ohio. 

Eleanor Stewart (mother of the subject of this 
sketch) was married to Thomas Boon, who came 
from the eastern part of Pennsylvania and was a 
grandnephewof the famo as pioneer, Daniel Boone, 
to whose descendants our subject is said to bear a 
strong resemblance. Shortly after his marriage 
Mr. Boon removed to Wellsburg, W. Va". , and en- 
gaged in the New Orleans trade, making frequent 
trips and prospering. While on one of his trips 
in the year 1822, he was stricken with yellow fever 
and died in a short time. His widow, with her 
four children: Elizabeth M., Thomas, Stewart and 
William, returned to West Middletown, where she 
resided until her death, which occurred April 10, 
1874. She never married again, but mourned for 
the companion of her youth until called to meet 
him. Her constant companion was her only daugh- 
ter, who remained with her. Her solace and com- 
fort was her deep-seated faith in the teachings 
of Christ. She was a member of the United Pres- 
byterian Church. 

Thomas Boon (the eldest brother of Elizabeth 
M. ) learned the tanner's trade, and removed to 
Ohio, where he married a Miss Criss. He now re- 
sides in Wayne county, Ohio. Stewart married 
Mary McKennen, of Reading, Penn. William 
married Miss Johnson, of Wayne county, Ohio. 



DR. W. B. DONALDSON. Among the prom- 
ising young physicians of Washington 
/ county none are better or more favorably 
known than Dr. Donaldson. He was born 
March 15, 1805, in Mount Pleasant township, this 
county, where his family are yet residing. He at- 
tended the common schools, then entered the East- 
man Business College, graduating in 1885. After 
his graduation he worked as a book-keeper for a 
time, finally entering the office of Drs. McElroy 
& McCarrell, of Hickory, where he studied medicine 
for some time. He afterward entered the Western 
Pennsylvania Medical College, graduating in 1889, 
then began to practice his profession in Pittsburgh. 



970 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



One year later he came to Midway, this county, 
associating himself with Dr. Patterson, whose in- 
terests he purchased in 1891. In 1892 Dr. Don 
aldeon was appointed physician of the Pennsyl- 
vania Railroad, west of Pittsburgh. On Septem- 
ber 11, 1888, he was united in marriage witb Jen 
uie F. Jackson, a resident of Mount Pleasant town- 
ship, to whom two children have been born, 
Braden Maxwell (deceased) and Mary Lucile. 
Politically, Dr. Donaldson is a Democrat, and in 
religion a member of the Presbyterian Church. 




\ILLIAM LEONARD was born December 
'■•, 1824, in Greene county, Peun., and his 
lather, Lot Leonard, was also a native of 
the same county. His grandfather, Lot 
Leonard, was born in New Jersey, and in 
early life came to Greene county, Penn., where he 
was married to a Miss Huge, who bore him chil- 
dren as follows: William, John, Lot, Isaac, George, 
Elizabeth, Mary, Sarah and Leah. Mr. Leonard 
was a soldier in the war of the Revolution, and a 
Federalist in politics. He preached Presbyterian- 
ism, Methodism and Quakerism, bu4 finally became 
a Freethinker, and preached his own new doctrine 
until he died, at the age of ninety-two years. 

Lot Leonard (2) was born in Greene county, 
Penn., in the year 1796, and remained on the 
home farm during his lifetime. He was united in 
marriage with Elizabeth, daughter of John Mosher, 
a resident of Washington county, and they had 
seven children, namely: Merritt, Jonathan, Me 
linda (Mrs. John S. Bayard), William, Levi, Lot 
and Aaron. Mr. Leonard was a successful farmer, 
and in political life was formerly a Whig, but, 
after the organization of the party, became a Re- 
publican. He was a warm friend of progressive 
education, and was school director of his district 
many years. He died in Greene county, Penn., in 
the year 1865, having been preceded to the grave 
by his wife in 1850. 

William Leonard was born and educated in 
Greene county, Perm., the schools of the neigh 
borhood then affording but meager advantages. 
In early youth he was cast on his own resources, 
and began life for himself. On September 28, 
IS IS, h,- married Miss Cynthia Dickerson, daugh- 
ter of William Dickerson, a prominent resident of 
Washington county. After their marriage Mr. 
and Mrs. Leonard settled on a farm in Greene 
county, where they remained rive years, removing 
thence to their present home, upon which they 
have made many improvements, having erected a 
large brick residence, and a comfortable and com- 
modious stock and grain barn. The following 
children have been born to this estimable couple: 
Elizabeth M. (deceased), William C, Wilson (de- 
ceased), Martha M. and Cynthia C. Mr. Leonard 



was originally a Whig, ami. since the organization 
of the party, has been a Republican. He has 
always been interested in all matters of impor- 
tance to the township, and has been school director 
for many years. 



CHRISTOPHER SHELLER. a leading rep- 
resentative of the Shelter family, was born 
July 16, 1M9, in Donegal township, Wash 
ington Co., Penn., where he has since re- 
sided. He is a son of Samuel Sheller, and grand- 
son of William, who was born, reared and married 
in Germany. The children of William were Will- 
iam, Henry, John, Samuel, Mary (Mrs. Jacob 
Ruple), Catherine (Mrs. Benjamin Stephenson), 
Mrs. Beckly and Mrs. McKee. The family emi- 
grated to America in an early day, and became the 
first pioneer settlers of Donegal township. In- 
dians were numerous in those days, and the men 
attended church with guns upon their shoulders, 
ready for instant use. Mr. Sheller was a Federal 
ist, and he was one of the founders of the United 
Brethren Church, of which he was a member. 

Samuel Sheller was born in Donegal township. 
Washington county, and received an education in 
the German language. He was married to Eliza- 
beth, daughter of Christopher Winter, and the 
following children were born to them: Daniel, 
Elizabeth, Christopher (our subject), Catherine 
(Mrs. John J. Clemens), Mary, Susanna (wife of 
Alexander Noble), and Lueinda (Mrs. Alexander 
Blair). Mr. Sheller always lived on the home 
farm. He was connected with the United Brethren 
Church. In politics he was a member of the Old- 
line Whig party. He died Jauuarv 1, 183S, his 
wife in 1860. 

Christopher Sheller passed his youth on the 
home farm, and received a common-school educa 
tion. He then learned the carpenter's trade of Isaac 
Winter, in West Alexander, serving three years as 
an apprentice, and three years as foreman. He 
then began life for himself, following his trade till 
1872, when he retired from business. On October 
7. L852, he was united in marriage with Frances 
Jane, daughter of Philip Crow, of Donegal town- 
ship, and the children born to their union were as 
follows: Elizabeth (Mrs. Barnet Chaney, de- 
ceased), Emma (Mrs. T. G. Peacock), Zillah 
and Adda (twins, deceased), and Fannie (deceased). 
On August 13, 1862, the mother of this family died, 
and October '_'7, 1863, Mr. Sheller married Nancy, 
daughter of Kenneth McCoy, whose father. Daniel 
McCoy, was of Scotch birth, and came with his 
parents to America, where he was married to Nancy 
McCoy, who bore him the following children: 
John, Alexander, William, Christina, Kenneth, 
Angus, Elizabeth, Joseph, James and Jane. In 
politics Mr. McCoy was a Republican. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



971 



[Kenneth McCoy passed bis entire life in Wesl 
Finley township, Washington, Co., Perm., and was 
united in marriage with Jane, daughter of James 
Brownlee, a pioneer settler of the county. Their 
children were Jane, Joseph, Nancy, Elizabeth 
(Mrs. Joseph Whitham), Mary (Mrs. Roberl Me 
haffey) and John. Mr. McCoy was a Wing, and 
a strong advocate of the anti slavery doctrine. He 
was a member of the United Presbyterian Church, 
and died in 1872, having been preceded by liis 
wife in L868.] 

Mr. Sheller has become a successful man by his 
own exertions, and in politics was originally a 
Whig. Upon the formation of. the party he be 
came a Republican, and is now one of the Leading 
Prohibitionists of his locality. He is a membei 
of the Presbyterian Church. 



A.MUEL C. SWABE. Among the prosper 
ous agriculturists and well-known citizens 
of Fallowiield township, this gentleman oc- 
cupies a prominent position. His father. 
Samuel Swabe, was a native of Westmoreland 
county, Penn., having been born iuthal locality in 
L821. lie passed his youth near the home place, 
and in 1841 was united in marriage with Eliza 
beth Coltlesher, also a native of Westmoreland 
county, Penn., whose parents were of Holland 
birth. To this marriage were born three children, 
namely. Catherine, burn in 1842; Lavina (de- 
censed in 1889), born in L845, and Samuel ('. In 
IS 17 the mother died. In 1850 Mr. Swabe was 
married to his second wife, Miss Maria Bort 
ner, who bore him one daughter, Margaret S., 
born in 18")."). This wife died in 1859, and in 1861 
he made a third choice in the person of Mrs. 
Margaret Coyle, a member of a well known fam- 
ily of Washington county. They had two daugh- 
ters, namely: Dora 13., born in 1862, and Ella, born 
in 1864. The wife and mother was called from 
earth in 1884. Mr. Swabe was a shoemaker ami 
followed his trade until 1850, when he bought a 
farm in Pallowfield township, Washington county, 
to which the family removed in 1851. In 1855 
he was elected justice of the peace, serving in thai 
capacity for live years, and filling many other local 
offices. At his death, in 1888, he owned -i<'>") acres 
of land, now occupied by his son. 

Samuel C. Swabe was born April 6, 1847, on the 
home farm in Westmoreland county, Penn. He 
was but four years of age when his parents brought 
him to the farm in Washington county, where his 
school days were passed. Since the death of his 
father he has managed the home place. On Septem 
berl8, 1890, he selected a bride in the person of Ella 
S., daughter of the late George Allen, a prominent 
farmer of Washington county, Penn. They have 
one daughter, Garnet A., born August 23, L891. 
Mr. and Mrs. Swabe reside on a farm lying two and 



a half miles from Charleroi, and live miles from 
Monongahela City. lb' raises a large quantity of 
excellent stock. In politics he is a Republican, ami 
has served his township in various offices of trust. 




ONEY. The Roney family are among the 
most prominent of the pioneers of Wash 
ington counts. The first ancestor of the 
family name, who came to America, was 
Hercules Rorley, who was born in Ireland, 

and emigrated to America. His brother .lames 
soon followed him, and they settled in Washington 
county, Penn., where they took up a " tomahawk 
claim " of about sixteen hundred acres in North 
Strabane township, and passed the remainder of 

their lives in clearing and improving their farms. 

James Honey, a S if Hercules, was the grand 

lather of the present feneration here. He was 
horn on the home farm, where his entire life was 
passed. In early life lie was married to Jane Mc- 
Whorter, of Washington county, Penn., and the 
following children were horn to their union: 
Moses. William, John, James. -Jane (Mrs. Mc- 
Kenry) and Margaret. Mr. Honey was a member 
and stanch supporter of the Presbyterian Church. 

John Honey was horn January 25, 1811, on the 
home farm in North Strabane township, Washing- 
ton county, and when a young man was united in 
marriage with Margaret, daughter of David 
George, of Smith township, thiscounty. Soon af- 
im Ins marriage Mr. Honey settled on a farm in 
West Finley township, where he is still living, a 
successful farmer and leading citizen. He is a 
prominent member of the H. I'. Church. His 
children are James, Horn June 'J. 1838, enlisted in 
Company K. Sixteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, and 
was sent to the army of the Potomac, where he 
was taken prisoner, dying on March 22, L863, from 
the effects of exposure; David <!.. born August 
13, IS 10, in West Finley township, this county, 
married. May 1, L872, Martha J., daughter of Rob 
ert Sutherland, ami they have three children: E. 
Iv, H. R., and J. J. (David G. was a soldier in 
the Civil war; he is an energetic businessman, and 
a member of the It. P. Church); Nancy, was mar- 
ried to John Patterson, of Ohio county, W. Va. , 
October 19, 1870, died April 4, 1 S78; Jane, who 
lives with her parents; Robert M., who died Janu- 
ary 8, 1S712; Samuel S., who died March 14, 1852; 
William S. , who married Alice, daughter of John 
Wood burn, of Washington county, is a carpenter, 
residing at Claysville, Washington county; J. W., 
who married Mary, daughter of Samuel McNinch, 
of Washington county, is a farmer of Douegal 
township, Washington county; Albert, who went 
to Ness City, Kans., in April, 1886, died there in 
July, 1886, of fever; A. J., who married Amelia, 
daughter of Charles Unrig, of Washington county, 
is a farmer residing on the home farm. 



972 



WASHINGTON COIW T) . 



J. C. Rones passed his younger days on the 
home farm in West Finley township, and on Sep 
tember 11. L872, was married to Mary, daughter 
of Joshua Blake, of Marshall county, W. Va., and 
she bore him children as follows: Myrtie, Earl, 
Beulah, Florence and Robert. The mother died 
April 19, 1881, and for his second wife Mr. Roney 
was united in marriage September 29, 1885, with 
Marie, daughter of Mrs. M. J. McBurney, of New 
Castle, I'enn. Mr. Roney first engaged in the 
mercantile business with Adam Hall, at West 
Middletown, I'enn.. where he remained but a short 
time, and then went to Wellsburg with the same 
man. He afterward moved to Bethany, where he 
remained a few years, and, in L885, Mr. Roney 
came to West Alexander, where he has since been 
engaged with his brother, David G., in the grain 
business. They also conduct a general store, and 
are known as reliable business men. Politically 
Mr. Roney is a prominent member of the Repub- 
lican party. He is a member of the U. P. Church 
of which he has been an elder several years. 



¥|OHN JAMES 0. and K. NOBLE McDON- 
ALD, of Robinson township, are among the 
fjj largest landholders in the northern part of 
~~^ the county. They are grandsons of John 
McDonald, who was born in Lishavanich, County 
Fermanagh, Ireland, April 30, 1730. John Mc- 
Donald emigrated to this country in 1773, and 
purchased a tract, of land called Mt. Pleasant, on 
Robinson's run, now included in Robinson and Mt. 
Pleasant townships. In 177."' he settled on the 
Mt. Pleasant property, and afterward bought other 
lauds adjoining Mt. Pleasant, called Blackberry 
Plain, Gooseberry Thicket, Highlands and Prim- 
rose Hill. He also bought large tracts in Alle- 
gheny and Beaver counties, and in West Virginia. 
All these lands were well located and are now very 
valuable. On April 28, 1778, he married Martha 
T. Noble, daughter of Col. Noble, who lived in 
Allegheny county, near Noblestown. They had 
six sous Andrew and William (twins), John, 
James, Alexander and Edward -and four daugh- 
ters -Margaret, Martha. Elizabeth and Mary — all 
now deceased. The eldest son, Andrew, was a 
graduate of Jefferson College, studied for the min- 
istry, and was pastor of White Oak Flats Presby- 
terian Church for a number of years. The sur- 
viving children of Rev. Andrew McDonald are An- 
drew (a farmer), Abram (a boatman) and Mrs. 
Bryne. John, the third son of John McDonald, 
was a distinguished member of the Pittsburgh bar, 
and contributed by his wealth and public spirit to 
the early improvement of the city of Pittsburgh. 
He was a prominent real estate owner in that city, 
and built the old "St. Charles Hotel." at tirst 
called the " Exchange Hotel," where the "Ander- 
son House" now stands, and he was at one time 
president of the Bank of Pittsburgh. He married 



and reared a family, still represented in Pitts- 
burgh. The remaining sons, William (twin of 
Andrew), James, Alexander and Edward, gave 
their attention to farming. 

The four daughters, Margaret (wife of Dr. 
Glenn), Martha (wife of George Allison), Eliza- 
beth (Mrs. John Mitchell) and Mary (wife of 
Rev. William Nesbit), were more than ordinary 
women in mental endowment, usefulness and 
piety. Grandfather John McDonald died, in 1817, 
on his own farm, "Mt. Pleasant," Washington 
county, and was buried in Raccoon cemetery. He 
was a man of wealth as well as moral worth. He 
gave his aid in first organizing the Raccoon Church 
at Candor. James Cooke, maternal grandfather 
of the subjects of this sketch, was an officer in the 
Revolutionary war, and soon after the close of that 
struggle came to Cross Creek township, this 
county, where he purchased a large tract of land 
and passed the rest of his days. He married 
Martha McCombs, and descendants are still to be 
found in Cross Creek township. 

James McDonald, better known as "Colonel 
McDonald," father of the subjects of this sketch, 
was the fourth son of John McDonald, and was 
born August 29, 1783. He received his education 
at a subscription school of the vicinity. His fathei 
gave him part of his Washington count) lands — 
which were then a wilderness, and which he im- 
proved. On September 25, 1825, he was united in 
marriage with Juliana Cooke, daughter of James 
Cooke, who resided near Cross Creek village, this 
county. They had four children: Martha Malvina, 
Margaretta Jane (deceased July 'IX, 1874, aged 
forty two years), John James ('.. and K. Noble. 
The mother, at the age of eighty-five years, April 
29, 1881, passed from earth at the old home, where 
her surviving children now live. The father 
passed his entire life on this estate, dying on April 
3, 1863, and was buried in the Raccoon cemetery. 
He was the owner at the time of his death of a 
large farm of 1,000 acres. In his political affilia- 
tions he was originally a Whig, then, on the organi- 
zation of the party, became a Republican, and was 
active in the interests of the cause, but no office 
seeker. At the beginning of the Rebellion of L86 I . 
he was heard to utter these words: "This war 
will never be ended until every slave is free." He 
was noted through life for the possession of a 
strong, independent will, but was always found a 
ready and kind sympathizer for the afflicted and 
distressed. He was a regular attendant and lib- 
eral supporter of Raccoon Presbyterian Church, in 
which he was raised, and which his father aided in 
first organizing. 

The two sons, John James C. and K. Noble, 
live on the home farm with their sister, and carry 
on farming, giving their attention to raising line 
stock, more particularly horses, making roadsters 
a specialty. They are Presbyterians, and in 
politics have always been Republican. 



WASHINGTON CO&NTY 



973 



f- 



ALPH VAN KIRK. Of the first families 
9) in Washington county, none are more prom- 
^ inent than the Nan Kirks. John, Henry 

^ and Van Kirk, natives of New Jersey, 

came to this county, and settled in Amwell 
township. John first left his native State, and on 
December 10, 1785, purchased of Abner Howell a 
tract of 359 acres in this county, which was pat- 
ented February 20, 1792. Here he lived until his 
death, which occurred in 1797, when the farm was 
divided between his three sons, Jacob, Henry and 
Joseph. He left four sons and three daughters, 
who were born in New Jersey: Sarah, Jacob and 
Henry being the children of his firjjt wife; and Jo- 
seph, Elizabeth, John and Catherine were children 
of a second marriage. Henry Van Kirk, the second 
of the three brothers, purchased a tract of 260 acres 
of land which was known as " Red Thorn Bottom." 
On this farm he lived and died, leaving six chil- 
dren, namely: William, Gideon, Arthur, Henry, 
John and Mary, all of whom were born in New 
Jersey, and William remained there. Arthur, the 
second son of Henry Van Kirk, learned the trade 
of a cabinet-maker, and after his marriage to Eliza- 
beth Parkinson, settled in Amwell township, whero 
the following children were born: Asher, Edward, 
Ralph, William, Lucretia, Emma and Sarah. 

Ralph Van Kirk was born December 27, 1815, 
and married Sarah Cooper, November 11, 1841, a 
daughter of Sylvan us Cooper, of Kranklin town- 
ship. To Mr. and Mrs. Van Kirk were born the 
following named children: Charles, Addison (who 
died in infancy), Jennie and Ella (who lives at 
home with her mother). Charles married Elizabeth 
Gamble, daughter of Levi Gamble, of West Beth- 
lehem township, and to them was born one daugh- 
ter, Dora (who died of typhoid fever March 20, 
lS"v!, at the age of fourteen); Jennie married 
George McElree,of Franklin township. They have 
two sons: Hiram Winnett, Ralph Alexander, and 
one daughter, Nellie Brown. Mr. Van Kirk was 
for six years director of " Washington County 
Home," which office he filled with much credit. He 
was one of the leaders of the Republican party in 
his neighborhood, and commanded the esteem of 
all who knew him. An honest citizen, an earnest 
Christian and member of the Methodist Church, he 
was a leader in the community. Mr. Van Kirk 
was called to his " long home" in January, 1890, 
deeply mourned by all. 

Sylvanus Cooper, named above, is descended 
from John Cooper, who emigrated from Buck- 
inghamshire, England, in 1035, and settled at 
Lynn, Mass. Four years later he located at 
Southampton, L. I., whence the family spread 
out to other settlements. Zebulon, the father 
of Sylvanus, born in New Jersey, emigrated 
to Washington county, Pennsylvania, where he 
married Mary White. To them were born four 



boys and four girls. Sylvanus was born December 
27, 1789. In 1812 he married Mary Bryant, a 
lady of noble character -and a cousin of William 
Cullen Bryant He had twelve children. Zebu- 
lon, the oldest, married Sarah Nicely, and resides 
in Iowa. He has nine children. David married 
Hanna Dille. They have ten children. He died 
in Memphis, Mo., of paralysis. Charles married 
Sarah F. Daychurck, of New Brunswick, N. J. 
He was a minister of the Presbyterian Church. 
His last charge was at South Centerville, N. Y. 
He had three children. John married a lady in 
Texas, and resides in Oarrollton, Mo. Five chil- 
ren were born to them. Catharine married Har- 
vey Gamble. Their late home was in Winfield, 
Iowa, where they both died. They had four 
children. Ifane married Thomas Hanna. They 
have five children. She has been dead for sev- 
eral years. Mary married John Atkinson. They 
had four children. She died at the residence of her 
son Charles in Missouri. Sarah married Ralph Van 
Kirk, of Washington county. She has three chil- 
dren living: Charles, Jennie and Ella. Addison 
died in infancy. Elizabeth married Nelson Day. 
Three children were born to them. She now re- 
sides in Iowa. Caroline married Gallatin Vaile 
and they reside in Rochelle, 111. They have 
five children. Henrietta, the youngest, lives in 
Carrollton, Mo. Sylvanus Cooper died at the 
residence of his son, Zebulon, in Winfield, Iowa, 
on April 10, 1873, at the age of eight-four years. 
His wife died August 9, IS 10, at the age of fifty- 
three years. 



GYRUS G. ARNOLD, a leading citizen of 
Hanover township, traces his ancestry to one 
) Samuel Arnold, who was born in County 
Down, Ireland, about ten miles from Newry, 
and the same distance from Banbridge. 

When a young man he was there married to 
Margaret Glass, whobore him the following chil- 
dren in Ireland: Nancy (married to William An- 
derson), and Mary (died of " king's evil"). Some 
time during the latter part of the eighteenth cen- 
tury this family came to America, and made their 
first permanent location in Allegheny county, Penn., 
where other children were born, namely: John (of 
whom a sketch follows); Margaret (wife of John 
Stewart, Noblestown, Allegheny county, Penn.); 
Jane (Mrs. John Moore), and Elizabeth (married 
to Hugh Glenn, died in Richland county, Ohio). 
Samuel Arnold and his wife died in Allegheny 
county. 

John Arnold (the father of our subject) was born 
August 19, 1800, in Allegheny, county, Penn. 
He received a meager education in the schools of 
that period, and worked on his father's farm until 
he was a boy of sixteen or seventeen. He then 



974 



WASHINGTON COUXTY 



began to learn the trade of a saddler ( which at 
that time was a very lucrative vocation), working 
under his brother-in-law, John Stewart, at Nobles- 
town, Penn. In 1N21 he was married to Mary 
Cavitt, who was born in ISO,"), in Allegheny county, 
Penn., daughter of George Cavitt, a native of 
Franklin county, Penn., whose father, Patrick Cav- 
itt, was born in Ireland. After his marriage John 
Arnold located ten miles west of Pittsburgh, along 
the Pittsburgh & Steubenville Pike, in Allegheny 
county. He finally secured a small tract of land, 
to which he added by patient industry and toil. 
They remained in Allegheny county twenty-five 
vears, and in 1846 removed to Hanover township, 
Washington county, Penn., along King's creek, 
where he continued to follow farming. In politics 
John Arnold was a Whig and Republican. At an 
early age he made the good confession in the Union 
Church, and in 1854 was elected elder in the King's 
Creek Associate Reformed Church, which position 
he held until his death, November '20, 1863. His 
widow survived him until January 29, 1880, when 
she was laid by his side in Frankfort cemetery. 
She also was connected with the same church as 
her husband, and when the United Presbyterian 
Church was organized, united with that Society. 
They were the parents of the following children: 
George C. (a U. P. minister), born February 19, 
1825, deceased December 1, 1863; Margaret (wife 
of Robert Ramsey, Beaver county, Penn.), born 
November 1, 1826; Samuel, born October 11, 1829, 
deceased December 2, 1S49; John (living in Cedar 
Rapids, Iowa), born February 23, 1832; William 
T., born December 2, 1833; Agnes (Mrs. B. V. 
Mevey, of Allegheny, Penn.\ born June 24, 1831); 
J. G., born November 9, 1839, deceased June 5, 
1857; Cyrus G., whose name opens this sketch, 
born September 5, 1842; and .I.Lee (living in Chi- 
cago), born January 23, 1S50. 

Cyrus G. Arnold was born on the home place in 
Allegheny county, Penn., and moved with the 
family to Washington county,- Penn., where he at- 
tended the public schools and passed his youth at 
home. In 1867 he was married to Mary G. Black, 
a native of Hanover township, this county, daugh- 
ter of James Black. Their children were John H., 
born November I, 1867; Mary C, born February 
23, 1870, and Grizzie B. (deceased in infancy). 
The mother died in 1872, and was buried in Paris 
cemetery. For his second wife Cyrus G. Arnold 
selected Nannie L. McWhirter, of Mercer county, 
Penn., daughter of John McWhirter. This wife 
died in 1S83, the mother of four children, Will- 
liam K., Vesta, Margaret E. (born July 10, 1882,) 
and Nannie L. (born August 25, 1883), of whom 
Vesta died in infancy, and Nannie L. is living with 
her grandparents in Mercer county, Penn. 

In April, 1886, our subject was married to his 
present wife, Nettie M. Savage, daughter of Will- 



iam and Jane (Duncan) Savage, who was born in 
Allegheny county, Penn. The children of this 
marriage are Cyrus I)., born May 7, 1885; James 
S., born July 25, 1887; and Edna Jane Cavitt, 
bom May 31, 1890, all of whom are living. Mr. 
Arnold took charge of the home place on King's 
Creek after his first marriage, and has ever since 
resided there. He has given his attention to farm- 
ing and stock-raising, and is a prosperous agricult- 
urist. He is well versed in questions of local and 
general interest, and is a leader in church matters, 
being an elder in King's Creek United Presby- 
terian Church, with which his wife is also connected. 
Politically, he is. a supporter of Republican doc- 
trine, and is much interested in the success of his 
party. 



I OSEPH COATSWORTH. This enterprising 
A I gentleman is a native of the County of Dur- 
t ! ham, England, where he was born July 12, 
^"^ 1842. His father, Joseph Coatsworth, was 
also born and reared in that English county, and 
was there married to Sarah Allison, who bore 
him seven children, Ann, Thomas, Margaret, 
Joseph, William, Sarah and John. Mr. Coatsworth 
was an expert lead-ore miner, and investigated its 
different branches in his native country. He con- 
cluded that America offered opportunities for his 
family, and emigrated in 1853, and followed coal- 
mining at Pittsburgh, Penn. A few years later he 
purchased a farm in Carroll township, but finally 
removed to Monongahela City, where he died in 
1861. He was a strong supporter of Whig and 
Abolition principles, and upheld his views with 
tenacity. He was connected with the primitive 
Methodist Episcopal Church, but on coming to 
America united with the Methodist Episcopal So- 
ciety of Monongahela City, of which he was a most 
conscientious member. 

Joseph Coatsworth came with his parents to 
America when but a lad, and passed his minority in 
Washington county, Penn. In 1872 he opened a 
grocery store, and engaged in the coal business at 
California, afterward conducting a grocery at Mo- 
nongahela ( 'ity. He finally abandoned the grocery 
and opened a butcher shop, where he is now doing 
a very good business. On May 4, 1864, he mar- 
ried Trovillo, daughter of Washington Eckles, for- 
merly of Westmoreland county, Penn. Mr. Eckles 
was born in that county, where he learned the car- 
penter trade, and coming to Washington county, 
finally settled at Monongahela City many years ago. 
He was married to Eleanor Mumbowcr, a native of 
this county, who bore him the following children: 
Alfred, Jefferson, Artilissia, Amanda, Amzi, Tro- 
villo, Floral, Ida and Ira. Mr. Eckles was a Demo- 
crat, and in religion a member of the Cumberland 
Presbyterian Church. Mr. and Mrs. Coatsworth 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



975 



are the parents of seven children, namely: Anna 
V. (wife of L. T. Olaybaugh ), Charles W., J. W., 
May, Kate G., Bessie and Eva. Mr. Coatsworth is 
an active member of the Democratic party, and has 
served the borough as councilman. 

Jonas Crowthers, who came to this country from 
Yorkshire, England, in 1850, married a daughter of 
the late Joseph and Sarah Coatsworth, Sr., in 1851. 
To them were born: Joseph B., W. H., J. J., Sarah, 
Thomas A. and R. C, Jonas and Lee, all nearly 
grown to manhood and womanhood in this county. 
On coming to the United States, Mr. Crowthers 
engaged in coal-mining, and being an expert mi- 
ner, soon became an operator in and shipper of 
coal, in which business he has been very successful. 



d/AMES M. M< MURRAY, one of the prosper- 
ous rising young agriculturists of Donegal 
township, comes of that rugged Scotch-Irish 
race, of whom it is said that wherever mem- 
bers of it are gathered together there are sure to 
be found men of large character, imbued with the 
fundamental principles that abide in the race — love 
of civil and religious liberty. Samuel McMurray, 
his paternal grandfather, was born about the year 
1702 in County Down, Ireland, and was there 
married to Margaret Brown, who was born in 
1765, also a native of Ireland, by whom there were 
seven children, all born in Donegal township, 
Washington Co., Penn., as follows: James, Ann, 
Eliza, John, Margaret (married to John Rees), 
Mary (married to John Erskine), and Jane (married 
to Samuel Barr), all now deceased, John being the 
last of them to " cross the river." After his mar- 
riage Samuel McMurray and his wife came to the 
United States, landing in Philadelphia, whence 
they proceeded to Washington county, same State, 
settling on the farm in Donegal township, which 
our subject now owns. Here he passed the re- 
mainder of his busy life, dying February 18, 1849. 
John McMurray, the fourth child born to Samuel 
and Margaret (Brown) McMurray, first saw the 
light in 1804 in Donegal township, this county, 
and here his boyhood days were passed on his 
father's farm, his education being received at the 
somewhat primitive subscription schools of the 
period. In 1852 he was married to Margaret 
Boyd, who was born May 12, 1813, in Hopewell 
township, this county, a daughter of James Boyd, 
and to this union were born two children, viz.: 
William (deceased), who was a farmer in Inde- 
pendence township, and was married to Kate Arm- 
strong, and James M. After his marriage John 
McMurray settled on a farm in Donegal township, 
near where his son now lives, situated about one 
mile east of West Alexander, and here followed 
general farming up to the time of his death, which 
occurred February 7, 1867, after which event his 



widow removed to the borough of West Alexander, 
where she is still living at a ripe old age. He was 
a prominent Republican, and held numerous town- 
ship offices. As a farmer he was eminently suc- 
cessful, being possessed of superior business 
capacity and sound judgment, and by the time of 
his decease he had accumulated considerable prop- 
erty. 

James M. McMurray was born December 13, 
1854, on the farm he now owns and lives on, in 
Dunegal township, and where he received all his 
instruction in agriculture, his education in the 
meantime being received, during the winter 
months, at the common schools of the district. On 
the death of his father he moved to West Alex- 
ander with his widowed mother, and after a resi- 
dence there of about three years returned to the 
farm, where he has since remained, successfully 
following his life work. On September 27, 1877, 
Mr. McMurray was married to Augusta Slater, 
who was born November 3, 1857, a daughter of 
David Slater, of Ohio county, W. Va., and by this 
union there are two children: Lizzie A., born 
July 1, 1878, and James W., born July 14, 1881, 
both living at home with their parents. In his 
political predilections Mr. McMurray is a Repub- 
lican, and has held several township offices, such 
as school director, but does not waste time on poli- 
tics. He is progressive and popular, and has a 
bright future before him. 



r ^j TEPHEN APPLEGATE, than whom there 
is no more enterprising citizen in the county, 
t) was born in Allegheny county, Penn., May 
5, 1825. He is a grandson of Benjamin 
Applegate, the place of whose birth was eastern 
Pennsylvania, where he was reared and educa- 
ted, and whence, in 1767, he migrated to this 
county, settling near the Monongahela river, in 
what is now Forward township, Allegheny county, 
where he patented a tract of 400 acres of land, 
subsequently entirely improved by the family He 
came in the spring of 1767, and, having made a 
dealing, seeded it to corn, then returned home, but 
when he again came, in the fall, he found bears 
had destroyed the entire crop. He was one of the 
earliest members of the U. P. Church in this sec- 
tion, their place of worship being known as the 
"Henderson Meeting House," and he was one of 
the most active and progressive of the earlier 
pioneers. 

Vincent Applegate, son of Benjamin, was born 
in Allegheny county, Penn., where he was edu- 
cated, trained to farming pursuits, and where, on 
the old home farm, he passed his entire life. He 
married Riodosha Harker, of Virginia, and their 
children were Richard, Delilah ( Mrs. Abraham 
Applegate), Harvey, Elizabeth, Josiah, Harrison, 



976 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Rebecca (Mrs. Gideon Wall), Keziah (Mrs. Jacob 
Conklin), Eli and Stephen. The father died Au- 
gust 3, 1839, the mother September 3, 1859. They 
sleep in the family burying-ground. They were 
members of the Henderson U. P. Church; in poli- 
tics he was an active Whig. 

Stephen Applegate was reared on the farm where 
he was born; his education was, necessarily, very 
limited. For some years after his marriage he re- 
mained on the home place, and in 1873 came to 
Monongahela City, where he has since resided, re- 
tired from active life. On October 29, 1846, he 
was married to Minerva, daughter of James Ap- 
plegate, also a native of Allegheny county, whose 
wife was Rachel (Holdcraft), and children as fol- 
lows: Elsie (Mrs. Samuel Dennison), John, Eliza- 
beth, Rachel, Harriet J. and Minerva (Mrs. Stephen 
Applegate). James Applegate was a prominent 
farmer and stock-raiser, in politics a Whig, in re- 
ligion a Baptist. Our subject and wife have had 
one child, Josephine, married to Moses Colvin, and 
their children are Minnie, Mary and May. Mr. Ap- 
plegate was originally a Whig, but a Republican 
since the formation of the party. He is a repre- 
sentative, self-made man, one who has attained 
success by his own efforts, industry, perseverance 
and thrift. 



L855, married to S. L. Day; Mary Elizabeth, born 
in 1864, at home with her father. Mrs. Patterson 
died August 20, 18S9. Mr. Patterson has been re- 
markably successful as a farmer, and has accumu- 
lated valuable property. He is a life-long Democrat, 
and a member of the Baptist Church at Pleasant 
Grove. 



FI( MOS PATTERSON. The Patterson family, 
II V\ of which the subject of this sketch is an 
fr^i honored member, comes of direct English 
J -* descent, now several generations removed, 
v Robert Patterson, a native of New Jer- 

sey, the great ancestor of the family in Washing- 
ton county, in 1794 came from York (now Adams) 
county, Pent)., to this county, with his family, 
locating in Morris township. The trip was made 
in wagons, at that time an undertaking of no small 
magnitude. The names of Robert Patterson's chil- 
dren are Joanna, James, Timothy, William, John, 
Robert, Polly, Abigail and Peter. 

John Patterson, son of the pioneer Robert, was 
born in 1782, in York (now Adams) county, Penn.; 
he married Mary Enlow, a daughter of Elliott En- 
low, who removed from Maryland to East Finley 
township, this county, prior to 1800. To this union 
twelve children were born, eight of whom lived to 
maturity, as follows: Elliott, Rachel, James, Phi i be, 
Amos, John, Jesse and Aaron. Of these children 
are now living: Amos (our subject), John (in Greene 
county, Penn.), and Aaron (in Mercer county, 111. )• 
Amos Patterson was born in 1816, and received 
the limited educational advantages which the neigh- 
In .ring schools afforded. In 1843 he was married 
to Harriet Cooper, who was born in 1821, a daugh- 
ter of John Cooper, of Morris township, this county, 
and to their union have been born three children: 
John A., born in 184(5, died in 1853; Clara, born in 



JOSHUA WRIGHT was born May 4, 1822, in 
Peters township, where he lived continuously 
j until 1859, when he moved into Washington 
borough, in order to give his children a thor- 
ough education. 

Joshua Wright, great-grandfather of the subject 
of this memoir, came with his brother James from 
the Cumberland Valley, and settled about 1765, in 
Nottingham township, this county, on Peters creek. 
They obtained a tract of land containing over 800 
acres (near what is now Finleyville ) from Indians, 
part of which land still remains in the family, 
Joshua, the great-grandson, having 210 acres of it. 
In 1779 the great-grandfather bought of his brother 
James all his share of their joint purchase, and our 
subject has in bis possession the quit- claim deed 
for same, in which the following words occur: " I 
quit-claim to my brother against all save God Al- 
mighty, who being maker of the Universe, I cannot 
quit-claim against Him." After he had part of this 
land cleared and a crop put in, he returned to Har- 
ris! mrgh and married Charity Sauns, daughter of 
John Harris, for whom Harrisburgh was named. 
In October, 1776, Joshua Wright was one of the 
justices of the peace in Youghiogheny county, and 
ex-otficio judge of the court. He presided over 
the court in April, 1777, and was also through the 
Crawford expedition in 1782. After this sale, 
James Wright went to Kentucky, where he was 
killed by the Indians. In 1783 Joshua Wright, 
while on his way with two other men to New ( )r- 
leans with a boat-load of provisions, was attacked 
by the Indians, who shot the two companions, and 
Wright, bravely defending himself to the last, shot 
several of the Redskins with his own musket and 
those of his slain companions. ( )verpowered by 
numbers, however, he was finally captured, and 
taken to a point near Sandusky, < )hio, where he was 
made to " run the gauntlet," and was burned at the 
stake. It was supposed he was decoyed to this 
tragical fate by Simon Gerty, the white renegade 
from Fort Pitt. He left three children: Lydia, 
Enoch and Agnes. 

Enoch Wright was born March 10, 1776, on the 
home farm in Peters township, this county, and was 
reared to agricultural pursuits. He was but a boy 
when his father was killed. He married Rachel 
James, and of their children but one grew to ma- 
turity, Joseph, who became the father of our sub- 
ject. Enoch Wright and his wife both died on the 



' 









: 




?& 



o-J 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



979 



old farm, be in 1840 at the age of seventy years. 
He was an active man, enjoying most robust health. 
For over thirtv years he was a justice of the peace. 
He participated in the " Whiskey Insurrection" in 
1794, opposing the rising, as he was in favor of 
paying the tax imposed, and firmly held to his po- 
sition, even in the face of threatening letters re- 
ceived by him, some of them conveying notice that 
his buildings would be burned did he not join the 
insurrectionists. He was by no means easily per- 
suaded, but finally he reluctantly united himself on 
the side of the Rebellion, ami after the shootinc' of 
one man, he entered with zeal into it. He served 
as county commissioner, was director of the poor, 
and during his incumbency he superintended the 
building of the first poor house in the county. He 
was a member of the Baptist Society, and gave the 
lands and means for the building of a church. 
Being a strong antislavery man he had it inserted 
in the deed for this property that no slavery doc- 
trine or sentiments should be preached or discussed 
in this church. When the church divided he trans- 
ferred his membership, and deeded land and build- 
ing to the Methodist Society. His wife survived 
him nearly twenty years, and died at the age of 
ninety years. 

Joseph Wright, father of subject, was born on 
the home farm in Peters township, August 4, 
1794. He received a common-school education, 
which was supplemented by study at Canonsburg 
College, where he was at the point of graduating 
when failing health compelled him to leave. After 
this he became a local preacher in the M. E. Church, 
and every Sabbath he conducted Divine service up 
to the day of his death, which occurred in 1854. 
He was a close student, making it a rule to read 
six hours every day. In politics he was a Whig. 
On November (3, 1814, he married Catherine, daugh- 
ter of Colonel Thomas and Catherine (Hurd) Hop- 
kins. The Hopkinses came to the county at a very 
early day, and have since been prominently con- 
nected with it. Eleven children were born to this 
union, as follows: Darthula (married Dr. James 
Miller, and died in Pittsburgh); Catherine (mar- 
ried Thomas Rankin, now of Nebraska; they first 
settled on a farm in this county); Lucinda (married 
John Storer, and died leaving one child); Joshua; 
Enoch (died in Iowa in 1891); Thomas Andrew 
(died at the age of five years); Joseph Thornton 
(died in Pittsburgh in 1871); Margaret Ann (mar- 
ried Dr. C. W. Townsend, lives in Peters town- 
ship, near Bower Hill); Mary Ellen (married Rev. 
John C Brown, of the M. E. Church, lives in Iowa); 
Hopkins (who has been an invalid ever since he 
was five years of age); and Charity S. (wife of Dr. 
D. M. Anderson, living on part of the old home- 
stead). The mother of this family died in 1863. 
They were all members of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church. 



Joshua Wright, the subject of this memoir, was 
reared on the old farm, where he was born, then 
for a short time attended the subscription schools 
of the neighborhood, and afterward studied at an 
academy. The principal part of his education was 
received from his father, who commenced to teach 
him Hebrew before he was ten years of age, making 
him rise in the morning at four or five o'clock for 
the purpose of study. For a private tutor he had 
one Aaron Gammel, under whom he studied every 
day, without a vacation, for a year. On March 17, 
1844, Mr. Wright was married to Miss Sarah ('., 
daughter of Rev. John White, and sister to Judge 
J. W. F. White, of Pittsburgh. Her mother was a 
member of the James family. The following chil- 
dren were born to this union: John A., a Methodist 
Episcopal minister; Speranza Kate (widow of 
George Brown, now living at Findlay, Ohio); Jo- 
seph Enoch (a Methodist Episcopal minister); 
Elizabeth Ann (married to L. G. Linn, an attorney 
of Butler, Penn.); William Fletcher (an insurance 
agent of Buffalo, N. Y.); James Sauns (who died 
at the age of fifteen years); Hallie Lucinda (wife of 
Everett Smith, an attorney of Ravenswood, W. 
Va. ); Ada Blanche ( wife of Joseph B. Spriggs, of 
Washington, Penn. ) ; Frank Laurance (a dentist 
of Duluth, Minn.); and Robert J. (an attorney of 
Pittsburgh, Penn.). The mother of this family 
died in 1808, in Washington, at the age of about 
forty-two years, and in July, 1870, Mr. Wright 
married Mrs. Jane Dill (nee McFerran), a full 
cousin of the late Mrs. President Harrison, by whom 
there are no children. In 1870 he opened-a bank, 
in partnership with Col. William Hopkins and Hon. 
James H. Hopkin«, and continued in same until his 
retirement in 1885. For many years he has been 
a member of the M. E. Church. At this writing, 
March, 1893, there are nine children livino-, with 
five daughters-in law, three sons-in-law, twenty 
grandchildren and one great-grandchild. 




P\ OBERT WARD is a son of Thomas, and 
grandson of Stephen Ward, a native of 
Maryland, of English descent, who passed 
his youth in that State. When a young 
man Stephen Ward came to Washington 
county, and settled on a farm near Bentleyville, 
where he worked 'Squire Bentley's farm on shares. 
While living in Maryland Stephen Ward was mar- 
ried to Hannah Thurston, who bore him five chil- 
dren, none of whom are living. In political opinion 
the father was a Democrat. He was thrown from 
a load of hay, the accident resulting in his death. 
Thomas Ward, son of Stephen, was born on the 
farm near Bentleyville, and attended the log cabin 
subscription schools of the neighborhood. At the 
age of eighteen years he came to a farm in East 
Pike Run township, this county, remaining there 



980 



WASHINGTON COCA TV. 



fifteen years. After locating on this place he mar- 
ried Elizabeth, daughter of John Williams — the 
old wagoner on the Washington Pike. Seven chil- 
dren were born to their union, as follows: Mary, 
wife of Thomas Worley, living near Shireoaks, 
this county; Melinda, married to Daniel Linn, of 
Fayette county, Penu.; John, living at California, 
Penn.; Stephen; Robert; James, living at Califor- 
nia, Penn., and Thomas, a resident of Uniontown, 
Penn. Stephen is deceased. The father voted with 
the Republican party, and in religious faith was a 
member of the Methodist Church. Mrs. Ward died 
in 1846, and he was laid by her side May 18, 1891. 
Robert Ward was born November 2, IS 42, on a 
farm in East Bethlehem township. He married 
Anna Hobinson, a native of East Pike Run town- 
ship, February 16, 1867. She was born March 23, 
1842. They have had six children, namely: Aus- 
tin, Lizzie, Averel, John, Annie (deceased in in- 
fancy) and Pearl. Mr. Ward owns and resides 
upon eighty acres of good land, which is the fruit 
of his own industry. He casts his ballot with the 
Republican party. In church relations he is iden- 
tified with the Methodist Society. Austin, his oldest 
son, was married to Miss Laurie B. Pepper, No- 
vember 3, 1891. They have one child, Alonzo. 
Austin resides on a farm of forty acres in the same 
township. 



rti LEXANDER McKINLEY, retired jeweler, 
/' \\ Washington, is a native of the borough, 
fh\\ born January 4, 1817, a son of Alexander, 
J -* who was born in this county. Samuel Mc- 
v Kinley, grandfather of our subject, was a 

pioneer in North Strabane township, where he 
bought land and passed the remainder of a very 
busy life. He married a daughter of Thomas Scott, 
who Avas the first prothonotary and the first repre- 
sentative in Congress from Washington county. 

Samuel McKinley had several children, of whom 
Samuel went to Ohio, and Alexander, the father of 
our subject, remained in his native county, where 
he learned the trade of mechanic, working chiefly 
at furniture making. He married Hettie, daughter 
of Abednego Jones, a tailor, whose trade was 
mostly among the Quakers, and who came from 
Philadelphia to Washington. He was in the for- 
mer city when the British captured it, and was 
arrested by them as a spy, but was released; he 
died in Washington. Alexander McKinley died 
suddenly in middle life while at dinner; his widow 
survived him several years, passing away in Wash- 
ington. They were the parents of ten children, of 
whom three sons and four daughters were living at 
the time of their mother's death; now (1892) there 
are surviving one son, our subject, and one daugh- 
ter, Clara, widow of William Bryson, of Washing- 
toe 



Alexander McKinley, whose name commences 
this sketch, received his education at the public 
schools in his native city, and afterward attended 
Washington and Jefferson College. He learned 
the jewelers' trade, and in 184(1 opened a store for 
himself, continuing until 1886. On April 27, 1852, 
Mr. McKinley was married to Margaret D. Hayes, 
of West Granby, Conn., who was visiting her 
brother when she met her future husband. She 
died in 1871, the mother of eight children: Frances 
E.; Thomas, in eastern Pennsylvania; Lucian, a 
physician in Ohio; Frank B.; Samuel, in Washing- 
ton; and Alexander, Ella and Alice, who died 
young, the latter preceding her mother to the 
grave. Mr. McKinley's next marriage was on 
January 30, 1872, with Mrs. C. J. Dalbey, whose 
maiden name was Bailey, an English lady, a resi- 
dent of Wheeling, W. Va. Politically, our subject 
was first a Whig, and since the organization of the 
party has been a stanch Republican, standing firm 
in the ranks, and is now an uncompromising Pro- 
tectionist. He is a member of the Presbyterian 
Church. 

F. B. McKinley, the third son of Alexander Mc- 
Kinley, was born April 26, I860, in Washington, 
Penn., and attended the LInion High School, after- 
ward studying Latin under the preceptorship of 
Rev. George P. Wilson. He commenced to learn 
the jewelry and watchmaking trade with his father, 
and continued with him until February, 1 SN6, when 
Alexander McKinley retired. In March, 1886, he 
opened business on his own account. On Septem- 
ber 22, [886, he was united in marriage with Miss 
Queen M., daughter of David F. Ross, of Wash- 
ington, and a member of one of the oldest families 
of the county. She is a graduate of the Union 
High School, and of the Washington Female 
seminary. One child, Ethelynn May, has come 
to bless this happy union. Mr. McKinley is a Re- 
publican, a member of the Improved Order of 
Ileptasophs, and a deacon of the Second Presby- 
terian Church of Washington, lie is one of the 
most popular rising young business men in the 
borough, and has surrounded himself with hosts of 
friends. 



JAMES S. KORSVTHE, one of the well-to- 
do, progressive agriculturists of Washington 
county, is a native of the Keystone State, 
born in Fayette county December 2, 1845. 
William Forsythe, his grandfather, moved, in 
177o, to that county from Maryland, and "toma- 
hawked " a claim to a tract of wild land that is 
now a fertile farm, in the possession of some of his 
descendants. He died at the age of eighty-two 
years, the father of ten children. One of his sons, 
Eli Forsythe, married a Miss Jane McKee, a native 
of Ireland, and by her had ten children, of whom 



WASHING TON CO UA TY. 



981 



William, born in Fayette county August 27, 1799, 
became the father of the subject of this sketch. 
William Forsythe, son of fc^li and Jane (McKee) 
Forsythe, was reared in the old home, and for the 
most part followed agricultural pursuits throughout 
his long and busy life. At one time he shipped 
coal to the southern markets. In 1829 he married 
Jane, daughter of John Steele, and settled on 
" Snow Hill," where he died at the age of eighty 
years. His widow died three years after, when 
aged seventy-five. They were the parents of eight 
children, of whom the following is a brief record: 
John died in California in 1852; Eli died in 189(1; 
Nancy married James S.Elliott and lives in Fayette 
county; Johnson died in 1891; Elizabeth is the 
wife of Isaac T. Crouch; Mary is the wife of L. S. 
Miller; James S. is the subject proper of this 
memoir; Ruth is married to Frank Hough, and 
lives in Fayette county. 

James S. Forsythe was reared to farm life in his 
native county, his boyhood winter months being 
passed in the common schools of the district, and 
for a time in an academy, after which he took a 
commercial course at the Iron City Business Col- 
lege, Pittsburgh. He then returned home, and 
remained on the farm until the death of his parents. 
In 1879 he embarked in mercantile business at 
Redstone, Fayette county, which he carried on 
three years; then, in 1882, purchased a farm in 
Am well township, this county, which he still con- 
ducts, and in connection with general farming 
deals considerably in live stock, making a specialty 
of Short- horn cattle. In 1890 he moved into the 
borough of Washington, where he now has his 
home, situated about one mile from the court- 
house. Mr. Forsythe married Miss Mary E. Mor- 
ton, daughter of George Morton, of Philadelphia, 
Penn., a native of Ireland, of Irish lineage, Octo- 
ber 4, 187(5. By this union five children were 
born, viz.: Lilian S.; John Morton, who died Sep- 
tember 24, 1886; Jesse H., Raymond D. and 
Robert N. Politically, our subject is a Repub- 
lican, and has held various township offices. He 
is a Presbyterian in church connection. 



"^ EORGE A. DOUGHERTY, M. I )., one of the 
best known and most successful physicians of 
Washington county, was born in County 
Derry, Ireland, December 15, 1839, a son of 
Edward and Lillie (Allender) Dougherty, 
both natives of the " land of the shamrock." 

The family came to America in 1840 and made 
their new home in Washington, this county. Our 
subject attended the common schools of the bor- 
ough, later attended Washington College, and then 
commenced reading medicine. In 1859 the family 
returned to the mother country, and our subject 
entered the University of Glasgow (Scotland), 



where he passed through a full curriculum — four 
years, graduating with tae class of l864-'65. The 
buysar fee which he paid on entering the university 
was ten pounds sterling. 

At the hospital he took a special course in medi- 
cine, and received from the university the degrees 
of M. D. and C. M. (Master in Surgery). The 
University of Glasgow is far famed as a seat of 
learning, and is one of the oldest institutions of 
the kind, having been founded in the year 11 Tilt. 
After finishing his course at the university the 
Doctor spent one year in a dispensary. In 1806 
he returned to this country, and in the following 
year commenced the practice of his profession, 
in which he has since remained. On January 14, 
L880, Dr. Dougherty was united in marriage with 
Rebecca M. Clokey, to whom two children were 
born: Anna Elizabeth, and a son who died in 
infancy. Dr. and Mrs. Dougherty are members 
of the United Presbyterian Church of Washington. 
He has a very extensive general practice, his ride 
being not only far and wide over the county, but 
even considerably beyond. The Doctor possesses 
a very complete and select library, and keeps 
abreast of the times. 




ILLIAM N. McCLAIN was born October 
30, 1847, in Franklin township, Washing- 
ton Co., Penn. He is a grandson of John 
— ' McClain, a native of Ireland who emi- 
grated to America about 1779 and located in this 
county. He was soon afterward married to Rachel 
Tucker, who bore him the following family : Sarah, 
Elizabeth, James, Simeon, John and William. In 
political life John McClain was one of the first 
adherents of the Whig party in Washington county. 
In religion he was a member of the Presbyterian 
Church. His remains, with those of his wife,. are 
interred near their pioneer home. Simeon McClain 
passed his youth in working on the home farm, and 
attending the common schools. In early manhood 
he was married to Jane, daughter of Isaac Carter, 
who bore him children as follows: John, Elizabeth 
(Mrs. H. K. Bell), William N. and Ellen (twins, 
the latter of whom is married to S. S. Bell), W. 
Ross, and Mary (Mrs. Holmes Andrews). Mr. 
Met lain was the architect of his own fortune, and 
an industrious, enterprising man. He was formerly 
a Whig, afterward becoming an active member of 
the Republican party, although he would never 
accept any political office. 

William N. McClain passed the days of his boy- 
hood on his father's farm, and received, in connection 
with a good grammar-school education, that prac- 
tical home training, which was no doubt the foun- 
dation of his subsequent successful business career. 
He is now one of the most progressive farmers of 
his section, and though residing in Washington 



982 



WASHING TON C OL'XTY. 



Penn., supervises the work of bis tenants, 
doing a large share of the same himself. He has 
several times held township otlice, faithfully dis- 
charging the duties thereof, and by his upright 
moral character winning the highest esteem of all 
his friends and acquaintances. His farm of nearly 
200 acres is rich and productive and yields him a 
large annual income. In March, 1873, he was 
united in marriage with Flora E., daughter of 
.losiah Cooper, also a resident of Franklin town- 
ship. Mr. Cooper was a member of the old Cooper 
family which settled in that section in the pioneer 
days, and was married to Clarissa Penn, who bore 
him on son and one daughter, Flora F. and 
Herschel ( the latter deceased). Mr. Cooper was 
an active member and liberal supporter of his 
church, and a man prominent in his community. 
He was first a Whig then a l.'epublican, at one 
time serving as county commissioner in the latter 
party. Later he became an ardent Prohibitionist, 
leading the forces of the cold water advocates in 
Washington county, and by his activity in the 
lecture field and genuine enthusiasm for the cause 
enabling them to make large inroads into the ranks 
of the old parties. He died an honored and re- 
spected citizen. Mr. and Mrs. McClain now live 
queitly in their Washington home, enjoying the 
well-earned fruits of a successful life of economy. 
They have no children. 



DFMAS LINDLFY is a son of Benjamin 
I Lindley, who was a son of Levi Lindley, 
I who came from near Mendham, N. .1., with 
his two brothers, Caleb and Demas, being 
among the first settlers in Morris township, coming 
about the year 1780. 

< >ur subject is a worthy representative of the 
family of Lindleys in Washington county, and is 
one of the most prominent and enterprising fanners 
of Franklin township. He was born August 9, 
1818, in .Morris township, this county, a son of 
Benjamin and .lerusha (Cooper) Lindley, and his 
boyhood and youth were passed under the paternal 
roof, his education being acquired at the neighbor- 
ing subscription schools, which in those days were 
at the best but limited. Demas Lindley was mar- 
ried first in 1812, to Lovina, daughter of Luther 
Day, of Morris township, who came from New Jer- 
sey, and whose wife was a Vankirk. The young 
( ouple commenced their married life on a farm in 
Buffalo township, where they remained four years, 
and then moved to the present home i,n Franklin 
township, where Mr. Lindley yet resides. His wife 
departed this life April 8, IMS'.*, and now sleeps in 
the cemetery al Prosperity, a handsome monument 
marking her resting-place. Side by side for nearly 
half a century this worthy couple had toiled indus- 
triously and prospered, and who shall say that her 



work and aid were not essential elements of his 
success in life? She was a woman of true Christian 
virtue, ever seeking to make her friends better and 
happier. 

Mr. and Mrs. Lindley had no children, but 
adopted a niece, Sarah A. Lindley, daughter of 
Cephas Lindley, and who, on October 16, lsTU, 
married Hamilton Post, a son of Stephen Post. 
The children born of this union are: Demas L., 
Homer S., Grace L. and Levina A. In politics 
Mr. Lindley is a stanch Republican, having been 
originally an old-time Whig, and was assessor and 
school director of his township for many years. 
He is a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian 
( !hurch at Bethel, and is held in high esteem by 
all who know him. 






J JOSEPH M. SPRIGGS,a leading merchant 
I in the borough of Washington, is a native of 
I the same, having been l»>rn on Chestnut 
street April 26, 1831. 
His grandfather, Joseph Spriggs, came in an 
early day from New Jersey to Washington county 
and settled in Canton township, where he followed 
agricultural pursuits. He died in West Virginia 
at the age of seventy-live years, the father of seven 
children, all of whom are deceased. James Spriggs, 
one of these children, was born in Washington 
county February 11, 1801, and reared on his 
father's farm, attending in his boyhood the sub- 
scription schools of his district, which in those early 
days were of a somewhat primitive character. He 
held the office of constable eleven years; was 
sheriff one term (1837-'40), register of wills one 
term ( 1812-'4.") ), and was assistant burgess at the 
time of his death, August 6, 1851, which was 
caused by falling on his head when jumping out of 
a wagon, death ensuing a few days afterward. 
His widow, who was a daughter of David and 
Elizabeth Boyce, and was born in Washington 
county January 6, 1805, died June 14, 187<>, at the 
age of seventy-one years. They had a family of 
ten children, all of whom died young except one 
daughter, Mary Ann (married to I )r. If. W. Davis, 
of Washington), and our subject, the latter being 
now the only survivor. .Mrs. Davis died in 1869, 
the mother of three children, two of whom are living. 
Joseph M. Spriggs, whose name appears at the 
opening of this biographical sketch, attended the 
common schools of Washington and Washington 
College, and when yet a boy commenced clerking 
in William Duvall's grocery store, a line of trade 
in which he has ever since continued, with some 
slight interruption, in the city of his birth. Jn 
1854 he embarked in business for himself in the 
building nearly opposite where he now is, and 
there remained seventeen years. He was a year 
out of business, and in 1886 he erected his present 





■'■"•' 











_rf**' 






<5 



^>7^ux^ jL^y* 




WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



\\s' t 



three-storv building, equipped with all modern 
improvements, including an elevator, and here, 
under the firm of Joseph M. Spriggs & Sons, he 
has since been engaged in a large and increasing 
business, comprising general grocery, hardware, 
feed, etc., the largest of the kind in Washington. 
In May, 1891, he commenced a grain elevator busi- 
ness in the city, which is in charge of his son, 
Charles 11. In ls54 Mr. Spriggs was married to 
Margaret, daughter of James Donahoe, of the vil- 
lage of Cross Creek, in this county, whose family 
were among the early pioneers of the county. 
James Donahoe was born in 1801, and died in 
Cross Creek in 1872. For thirty years he was a 
justice of the peace; was commissioner two terms, 
and at one time was in the State Legislature, rep- 
resenting Washington county. His widow is now 
a resident of New Cumberland, W. Va. 

To Mr. and Mrs. Spriggs were born eight chil- 
dren, of whom the following is a brief record: 
James 1). is a Presbyterian minister at South 
Lyon, Mich, (he married Annie Wilson, of Fay- 
ette county ); Mary Eliza died in infancy; Charles 
H. lives in Washington, Penn. ( married Alice 
Hallam, and has three children); William died in 
infancy; Joseph B. is married to a daughter of 
Joshua Wright and resides in Washington; Mar- 
garet died in 1891 at the age of twenty-two years; 
George D. died in infancy; John M. is still at 
home. On February 2, 1888, the mother passed 
through the "golden gates" at the age of fifty 
years, and on October 16, 1889, Mr. Spriggs mar- 
ried Margaret A. Seaman, daughter of Alexander 
Seaman (deceased), who for many years was one 
of the leading grocerymen of Washington. Mr. 
Spriggs is a Republican in politics, and in church 
connection has for forty years been a member of 
the M. K. Church, of which he is at present steward. 



GAPT. SAMUEL CAMPBELL (deceased) was 
a native-born citizen of Hanover township. 
His grandfather, Archibald Campbell, was 
born in Ireland, where he was married to a 
countrywoman, who bore him several children, and 
died in Ireland about the year 1800. 

Archibald came to America after the so-called 
Act of Union, locating near Candor, in Washing- 
ton county. He was here married to Mrs. Eliza- 
beth (Fletcher) Scott, a widow lady, who bore 
Archibald Campbell two sons: Josiah S. (of whom 
a sketch follows) and Samuel (deceased, who was a 
law student). Archibald Campbell died about 
1811, near Candor, this county, followed by his 
widow about 1830, and both were buried in the 
Raccoon cemetery. 

Josiah S. Campbell was born here April 16, 
1806. He attended the common schools, remain- 
ing with his widowed mother after the death of the 



father. He then learned the carpenter and wheel- 
wright trades, also working at wagon-making. On 
August 15, 1825, he was married to Rosanna Teel, 
who was born January 20, 1804, daughter of John 
Teel, a Revolutionary soldier. The following chil- 
dren were born to Josiah S; and Rosanna Camp- 
bell: Catherine (Mrs. .1. W. l'.utz, of Frankfort, 
Beaver Co., Penn.), Elizabeth ( Mrs. John 'Anderson, 
of Mansfield Penn.), Samuel (the subject of this 
sketch), James T. (an undertaker of Galion, Craw- 
ford Co., Ohio), John J. (a mechanic of Memphis, 
Tenn.), Stephen M. S. (a mechanic of Paducah, 
Ky.), Thomas F. (a member of the Fourth P. V. O, 
taken prisoner during the operations along the 
Welden Railroad, and after surrendering his arms, 
was shot down by the enemy), Nancy A., Mary A. 
and Margaret (the latter three died m early youth). 
For many years Mr. Campbell followed his trade 
at Frankfort, Penn., where most of his life was 
passed. He died December 9, L858, and in 1879 
his wife was laid beside him in the Presbyterian 
cemetery at Frankfort. Both were members of 
the Presbyterian Church at Frankfort, in which 
Mr. Campbell had been an active worker, serving 
as superintendent of the Sabbath-school, and was 
for many years a trustee of that church. In poli- 
tics he was formerly a Whig, then became a lead- 
ing member of the Republican party. 

Samuel Campbell was born February 24, 1831, 
in Florence, Washington Co., Penn. He received 
a common-school education, and when a young man 
learned the trade of a cabinet-maker under Robert 
Stevens, of Frankfort, Penn., where his parents 
then resided. On March 14, 1855, he was married 
to .lane Vance, who was born March 14, 1S34, near 
Burgettstown, Penn., a daughter of William P. 
and Mary (Stephenson ) Vance. Mr. Campbell re- 
mained at Frankfort one year after his marriage, 
then moved to a farm in Hanover township, Beaver 
county, which, in the fall of 1861, he traded for a 
place near the northwestern boundary of Wash- 
ington county, where he made a permanent home. 
On August 25, 1862, he enlisted in Co. H, One 
Hundred and Fortieth P. V. I., at Beaver, Penn. 
His first engagement was at Chancellorsville, and 
he followed the fortunes of his regiment until the 
second day's battle at Gettysburg. On that mem- 
orable afternoon, while fighting in the wheat field 
near the stone wall, he received a wound in the 
neck, which disabled him from service for sixty 
days. He returned to the field in September of 
that year, and was stationed for some time at An- 
napolis, Md., afterward joining his regiment. On 
September 10, 1862, he was appointed second 
lieutenant of his company, and on November 1 
was made captain, serving in that capacity until the 
close of his service. In September, 1864, he was 
honorably discharged, and returned to his home in 
Washington county, bearing with him the reputa- 



988 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



tion of a fearless soldier and just commander. He 
then resumed farming, which he followed during 
his active life, engaging extensively in stock-raising 
and fine wool-growing. With the assistance of an 
economical wife, combined with his own industry, 
(Japt. Camphell was as successful in private busi- 
ness as on the field of battle. In politics he was 
formerly a Whig, then a Republican, having been 
an advisor and counselor of the latter party. He 
died March 8, 18cS7, and was laid to rest in Frank- 
fort cemetery. Since his death Mrs. Campbell has 
been living on the old home farm, to which Mr. 
Campbell had made several additions. The chil- 
dren of Samuel and Jane Campbell are William 
.1., S. F 1 ., Anna Mary (Mrs. J. A. Hanlin), Thomas 
F. and Joseph V., all of whom are living on the 
home place, which is managed by the sons, Samuel 
F. and Thomas F. 



IT ITATTHEW II. CROUSE (deceased) was 
I\a| descended from German ancestry. His 
I \[ I grandfather was a member of the United 
I -* .States Navy, and was killed on a man-of- 
v war in the war of 1812. His wife, also a 

German, died of yellow fever about the same time. 
Philip J. Crouse was born April 2, 1802, in Phila- 
delphia, Perm., and became an orphan when not 
more than ten years of age. He was the only 
child, and after the death of his parents came to 
Washington county with his guardian, Robert Rus- 
sell. His education was obtained in the subscrip- 
tion schools of the day, and he lived near Florence, 
Peun., until he became of age. In April, 1826, 
1 'hi lip J. Crouse was married by Rev. McCurdy to 
Ruth Ann Mayhew, a native of Maryland, who 
came to Washington county with her parents when 
but two years of age. The children of Philip and 
Ruth Ann Crouse were as follows: Rebecca (de- 
ceased wife of James Blakely, Henry county, 111.), 
Elizabeth (Mrs. Barnett MeOracken, of East End, 
Pittsburgh), Nancy (married to William Burns), 
Matthew H. (mentioned below), Thamar A. (Mrs. 
J. A. Bubbett, of Hanover township), Richard M. 
(corporal of Company II, One Hundred and Fortieth 
P. V. I., received wounds at Hatcher's Run, Ya., 
which resulted in his death), Margaret G. (widow 
of Samuel McKibben, living in McKeesport, Penn.) 
and Mary J. (wife of Mr. 1). M. Wylie, Hancock 
county, W. Va.). After attaining his majority Philip 
Crouse came into possession of a farm, which his 
guardian had purchased, but the title proving 
faulty, lost both farm and the money invested. He 
then went to Georgetown, Beaver Co., Penn., and 
was a steamboat pilot on the Ohio river for several 
years, finally returning to Hanover township, this 
county, where his remaining days were passed, 
lie died December 12, 1855, and his wife passed 
away February 8, 1888. They are buried in Flor- 



ence cemetery. Mrs. Crouse was a member of the 
U. P. Church, and in politics Mr. Crouse was a Re- 
publican. 

Matthew II. Crouse, son of Philip and Ruth Ann 
Crouse, was born January 10, 1833, near George- 
town, in Beaver county, where he attended the 
common schools and worked on the farm. After 
his father's death he and his brother, Richard, pur- 
chased a place in Hanover township, Washington 
county, near the northwest corner. The two broth- 
ers removed with their widowed mother to this 
place, and being energetic, industrious farmers, 
prospered. After the death of Richard, Matthew 
took his share, and by incessant toil succeeded in 
clearing it of debt. On November 26, 1 N7'J, he 
selected as a life companion Agnes L. Tarr, who 
was born January 27, 1819, in Hancock county, 
W. Va. She was a daughter of Jackson and Mary 
Ann (Crawford) Tarr, and grandchild of Peter 
Tarr, a native of Germany. To the union of Mat- 
thew Henderson and Agnes L. (Tarr) Crouse the 
following children were born: Anna Marv, born 
December (3, 1880; Edith, born December 25, 
1882; and Lila M., born August 25, 1885, all of 
whom are living. Mr. Crouse continued to reside 
on the farm which had been in his possession since 
the death of his brother. He died February 10, 
1888, having been preceded by his widowed mother 
February 8, L888. Both were buried on the same 
day. Mr. Crouse was a very successful business 
man, and left his family an excellent farm of 210 
acres, upon which a fine house and other improve- 
ments were erected. In politics he was a Demo- 
crat up to the war, when he joined the Republican 
forces. He was a member of the U. P. Church at 
King's Creek, with which his widow is identified. 
Since his death his widow and children have 
resided on the home farm, which Mrs. Crouse 
manages. 



^HOMAS D. McCARTY, a leading business 
man of Midway, this county, was born May 3, 
1858, in Mount Pleasant township. The 
earliest pioneer of the family name in this 
county was one John McCarty, who settled 
in Robinson township and reared a family of chil- 
dren, of whom Timothy was married to a daughter 
of Thomas McConnell. 

John McCarty (a son of Timothy McCarty) was 
born, reared and educated in Mount Pleasant 
township, this county. He attended school in a 
rude log cabin equipped with all the usual primi- 
tive furnishings of the period, the greased paper 
which served as window-panes being but a poor 
medium for the transmission of light. In early 
manhood he was united in marriage with Jane 
Roseberry, who was born September 5, 1810, 
daughter of Benjamin Roseberry, of Robinson 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



989 



township. The following children were born to 
their union: Martha (wife of Russell Thompson, 
and mother of three sons and five daughters); 
Timothy ( deceased, a young physician who grad- 
uated at the Philadelphia Medical College; he was 
married to Tillie George, who bore him one daugh- 
ter, Cora M.); Benjamin R. (living in Mount 
Pleasant township); James H. (deceased, physician 
of Jefferson, Harrison Co., Ohio, and graduate of 
Philadelphia Medical College); John S. (living in 
Midway, this county ); Richard C. (drowned July 
4, 1851); Elizabeth M., and Thomas 1). (whose 
name opens this biography). Mr. McCarty was an 
active member of the Democratic party, and in 
religious connection was a member of the Raccoon 
Presbyterian Church from early youth, contributing 
liberally to its support and serving many years as 
elder. He always followed farming and stock- 
raising. He died January 19, 1886, and was laid 
to rest in the Raccoon cemetery by the side of his 
wife, who had preceded him to the grave April 11, 
1874. 

Thomas I). McCarty lived on the home farm 
during his boyhood, and attended the common 
schools. He then entered the academy at Mc- 
Donald, Penn., remaining there some time, after- 
ward spending some years at the Western Penn- 
sylvania University. In February, 1883, he opened 
a general hardware store at Midway, Penn., which 
he now manages, and in 1888 purchased a half 
interest in his brother's (John S. ) lumber yard. 
In 1891 he bought an undertaking business of 
James Meloney, and conducts these various enter- 
prises with energetic vim and eminent success. 
On January 3, 1890, he was united in marriage 
with Anna, daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth 
Stark, natives of Scotland. One daughter and a 
son, Elvie L. and John T., have blessed their 
union. Politically, Mr. McCarty is an energetic 
Democrat, and takes an active interest in all pro- 
gressive movements. 



DANIEL DUNCAN. Among the prosperous 
\ and influential citizens of Smith township, 
/ none is more prominently identified with 
the best interests of the community than 
this gentleman, who is a grandson of Alexander 
Duncan. 

Jchn Duncan, father of subject, was born about 
the year 1768, in Lancaster county, Penn., where 
he was married, and in 1780 he came to Washing- 
ton county, locating in Smith township, about one 
mile and a half north of Burgettstown. At that 
time it was a wild tract of land, covered with heavy 
woods, inhabited only by Indians and wild beasts. 
Here the young couple made their home, and began 
to clear away the surrounding forest. A brother, 
Daniel Duncan, who came West with him, was 



killed by lightning. To this marriage of John 
Duncan, five children were born: Alexander, Da- 
vid, John, Elisha and Susan, all of whom lived to 
adult age, and Susan, who was born June 30, L800, 
died at Florence in 1890, having lived to see her 
great-great-grandchild. Mrs. John Duncan died 
soon after the birth of her youngest child, and Mr. 
Duncan then married Nancy Morrison, of Wash- 
ington county, who bore him children as follows: 
James, Elizabeth, Jane, and a son deceased in in- 
fancy (twins), Joseph, Daniel ( whose name opens 
this sketch), and Norris. Of this family Daniel is 
the only one yet living. The mother passed away, 
and John Duncan for his third spouse married Mrs. 
Emery, who died in 1852. He was extensively 
engaged in the stock business during his later years, 
being one of the first to brine tine-bred cattle into 
that part of Washington county. He was very 
successful in business, accumulating a considera- 
ble property; in political opinions he was an en- 
thusiastic Whig. 

Daniel Duncan was born May 12, 1815, on the 
home farm where he is yet living, and where his 
father first located after coming to Washington 
county. Our subject received a limited education 
in the primitive old log schoolhouse of the day, and 
on September 20, 1851, he was married to Rachel 
Van Eman, who was born in 1825, a daughter of 
Garrett Van Eman, a native of Smith township. To 
this union children were born as follows: Ella (at 
home), Logan V. and < ). C. (twins), the former a 
farmer living on a part of the home place, the latter 
living at home, and Norris, who died in infancy. 
Tins wife died in 1855, and was buried at Florence, 
this county. On June 18, 1800, Daniel Duncan was 
married to Margaret, daughter of John Horner, of 
Hanover township, this county. The. home farm of 
215 acres, upon which Mr. and Mrs. Duncan are 
residing, has been in the possession of the family 
over one hundred years, and is now in an excellent 
state of cultivation, all the improvements having 
been made by him. He has been extensively en- 
gaged in the breeding of fine stock. In politics 
Mr. Duncan was originally a Whig, and since the 
organization of the party has been a Republican. 
He has held several township offices. Both he and 
his wife are consistent members of the U. P. Church 
at Burgettstown. 




C. BALDWIN, long and favorably 
known as a thorough-going wide-awake 
business man, was born January 12, 1858, 
in the village of Amity, Amwell town- 
ship, Washington county. In 1860 his father, Rev. 
John Sealey Baldwin, removed to Brookville, 
Penn., where he was pastor of the M. P. Church. 
In 1802 he returned to his native county, and was 
stationed at Washington at the time of his death 



990 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



which occurred March 10, 1863. His wife, Jane 
E., who was a daughter of William lams, of Am- 
ity, died February '.".', 1878. The family consisted 
of two sons and one daughter: Samuel F., born 
July 8, 1860, died December 8, 1862; Florella E., 
born July 8, 1854, married to W. L. -Milne, of 
Washington, Penn., and William C, who was 
about four years old when he lost his father. 

Our subject attended public school until ten 
years of age, and then entered the dry-goods store 
of William Smith, where he remained several 
years. In 1873 he went to Bellaire, Ohio, where 
he clerked in the dry-goods store of George 1!. 
Taylor, remaining there until 1875, in which year 
he returned to Washington and opened a confec- 
tionery store in the room now occupied by R. W. 
Hallam. In 1876 Mr. Baldwin sold out to John 
Brown, and entered the employ of W. S. Kam- 
merer, who was then in the dry-goods business in 
the Montgomery building. In 1879 Mr. Ram- 
merer, being in poor health, closed out his store. 
Mr. Baldwin, then twenty years of age, had spent 
ten years in stores, and had made up his mind to 
continue in it. lie formed a partnership with 
Frank H. Judson in the furnishing goods business. 
In 1882 our subject bought out Mr. Judson, he 
wishing to engage in the printing business, this 
beincr his trade. Mr. Baldwin continued in busi- 
ness until 1890, when he sold out to E. G. Cundall 
& Suns; at the time he sold he was doing the larg- 
est business in his line in the city. < )ur subject 
was also one of the founders of the Ethanmont 
Stock farm. 

In 1889 he, with others, organized the Willow 
( rrove Oil Co., operating in Washington and Greene 
counties, Penn. On January 1, 1893, the New- 
York Life Insurance Company appointed Mr. 
Baldwin general agent of southwestern Pennsyl- 
vania. 

In 1879 Mr. Baldwin married Miss Josie E. 
McCortnick, daughter of William and Sarah Mc< !or- 
mick, of Clarksburg, W. Ya. Mr. Baldwin's office 
is in the Donnan Paw building; his residence is on 
College street. 



I-SAAC P. COWDEN was horn in Mt. Pleasant 
township, this county, in 1798, a son of John 
and Ann (Sloan) Cowden. He was reared on 
-> the farm, and received such education as was 
obtainable in the schools of the period. In 1823 
he married Esther Nelson, who was born in 
1799 on a farm in Mt. Pleasant township, where 
their son John is yet residing. She was a daugh- 
ter of James and Ann (Duncan) Nelson, and 
granddaughter of John and Margaret (Gilliland) 
Nelson. 

John and Margaret Nelson were both natives of 
Ireland, where they were married shortly before 



emigrating to America. After reaching this coun- 
try they took up their abode in York county, Penn., 
where they resided for a number of years, then 
moved to Washington county, at that lime a wil- 
derness. To reach their destination, they had to 
move their household belongings on packhorses, 
the children being carried in creels (great wicker 
baskets), slung one on each side of a horse. In 
this way they accomplished the wearisome journey 
over the mountains, sometimes receiving the hospi- 
tality of a pioneer, whose lonely cabin they dis- 
covered, sometimes camping by the wayside when 
night overtook them, but always with stout hearts 
pushing on, until their destination was reached in 
safety, and they found their new home in the 
wilderness. Only one clearing marked the west- 
ern march of civilization, but undaunted by the 
dreary outlook they went to work. Fortune smiled 
upon them, and soon they were able to provide 
themselves with not only the bare necessaries of 
life, but also with a comfortable, well-furnished 
house. They were industrious, and therefore pros- 
perous, contented and happy. Nine children grew 
up around the family hearthstone, viz.: Esther, 
William, John, Margaret, Archibald, Nancy, Ann, 
James and Samuel. Of the privations endured by 
these pioneers, we need mention only a few. Salt 
was an article much needed and very difficult to 
obtain. To procure a supply it was necessary to 
make a trip over the mountains and transport it on 
packhorses. At first neighbors were few, living 
long distances apart. To attend church they had 
to go to Canonsburg. Schools were decidedly 
primitive affairs. Amid such surroundings James 
Nelson grew to manhood, and was then married to 
Ann Duncan, a member of an Irish family of pio- 
neers who had eight children : John, Samuel, 
Mary, Margaret, Elizabeth, Susan, Isabelle and 
Ann. After his marriage to Ann Duncan, James 
Nelson removed to Beaver county, Penn., and re- 
mained on a farm in that county until his death. 
His children by the first marriage were John, Mar- 
garet, Isabelle and Esther. This wife died and 
Mr. Nelson then married Delilah Ralston, who bore 
him two children — James and Ann. After her 
mother's death, Esther, then a small child, lived 
with her grandparents, by whom she was reared 
and educated, remaining with them until her mar- 
riage with Isaac Cowden. 

Isaac P. and P. Esther (Nelson) Cowden had 
the following children : Lillie Ann ( widow of 
Robert Thompson, now living in California), John 
( who married Louisa Scott, now residing on the 
old Nelson homestead in Mt. Pleasant township), 
James (married to Violet Glass, residing in south- 
ern Kansas), Martha and Margaret (to whom we are 
indebted for this sketch ), who are unmarried, and 
reside together in West Middletown, Penn. Isaac 
P. Cowden was a successful farmer and stock raiser, 



wAsf/ixoroy corxTY. 



991 



and resided in Mt. Pleasant township, this county, 
all his life. He was never actively engaged in 
political affairs, finding in domestic life and agri- 
cultural pursuits a more congenial atmosphere. In 
religion he was a member of the United Presby- 
terian Church, like his wife and daughters. His 
death occurred in May, 1865, his widow mourning 
his loss until 1877, when she, too, answered the last 
call. 




\ILLIAM DEVORE is descended from a 
gallant Holland pioneer, by name An- 
drew Devore, who was born in 1730, and 
was one of the Hessian soldiers captured 
at Trenton by Gen. Washington, and though but a 
boy in years, the lad was roused with indignation 
against the tyranny of the Hessian prince, who had 
sold his countrymen to serve the English. When 
an opportunity was offered for him to return to the 
British army, he ilatly refused, and enlisted with 
the colonial cause. In the summer of 1782 he lo- 
cated on a farm in Nottingham township, Washing- 
ton county, Penn., part of which is yet owned by 
his descendants. Here, amidst the scenes of pioneer 
life, his children were born as follows: Adam, 
Henry, William, Samuel, James, Andrew (de- 
ceased in infancy ), Polly and Betsey, none of whom 
are now living. Mr. Devore became a wealthy 
farmer, and his industry was evinced by the crooked 
finger on the hand thus maimed through hard work. 
He gave 133 acres of land to each of his children, 
and died on the old place. Politically, he was a 
member of the Democratic party. 

William Devore, the third son of Andrew, was 
born and reared on the homestead in Nottingham 
township, this county, and attended the log school- 
house of the period. He learned the shoemaker's 
trade, and followed that vocation in connection 
with farming all his life. In 1821 he was united 
in marriage with Mary Martin, a native of New 
Jersey, and she bore him children as follows: 
Lydia, Andrew ( living in North Strabane town- 
ship), David (a resident of Monongahela City), 
Phoebe ( wife of James Kelsey, Washington, Penn. ), 
Jackson (a resident of Iowa), Mary (a resident of 
Missouri), Sarah (Mrs. Fox, of Butler county, 
Penn. ), William and Margaret. The mother was 
a member of the Methodist, the father of the Bap- 
tist Church. He voted with the Democratic party. 
William Devore, son of William and Mary (Mar- 
tin) Devore, was born January 19, 1836, in Fal- 
lowfield township, Washington county, Penn., on 
Maple creek. When about five years of age he 
came to the home place in Nottingham township, 
this county, where his youth was passed. On 
March 6, 1802, he married Sarah Ann, daughter of 
James Fox, and they continued to reside on the 
home farm until 1867, in the spring of which year 



he bought a small farm in Fallowfield township, to 
which they removed in the autumn. They resided 
there several years and then bought 135| aires in 
Carroll township, where they are yet living. He 
woiked six months at $8.00 per month, and from 
that pittance saved $42.00. He was afterward, 
employed at $9.00 per month, then cropped on 
shares, afterward worked at 50 cents per day for 
eleven months, saving from these wages $270. 
He and his brother then worked four months to 
perfect a sawmill, and on the first investment 
cleared §106, on the next $200, and then $1,850. 
In 1873 he owed $5, 000, which has been paid with 
10 per cent, interest. He is now engaged in farm- 
ing and stock-raising, and owns some property in 
Monongahela City. Politically he is a Democrat. 
The children of this family are Mary Elizabeth, 
wife of S. Worman; James, interested in the saw- 
mills at Monongahela City; Arabella and Henry ( '., 
living with their parents. 



»p"\ OBERT S. McCULLOUGH. In proper- 
ly fcion to its population, Hanover township 

[F V. can justly claim as large a number of pio- 
j\ A neer families whose names have been 
v indissolubly woven with the history of 

Pennsylvania, as any township in the noble Key- 
stone State. Among the many who have assisted 
in the development of Hanover township is the 
gentleman whose name introduces this biography. 

John McCullough ( familiarly known as " 'Squire 
Mc " ) was born in 1807, near Hookstown, Beaver 
Co., Penn. He passed his boyhood .in attending 
the ordinary subscription schools, then learned the 
carpenter's trade, and in early manhood he began 
to follow that business in Florence, Washington 
county. He was there married to Lydia Jackson, 
who was born in 1807, in Hanover township, this 
county. She bore him four children, viz.: Rebecca 
(wife of Alexander McConnell ), Agnes (Mrs. Levi 
Culley, of Florence), Elizabeth (married to Silas 
Dorman, of Burgettstown, Penn.) and John E. (of 
Florence, Penn.). The mother of this family was 
laid to rest July 6, 1842, in Florence, Penn., and 
Mr. McCullough afterward married Mrs. Deborah 
(Jackson) Smith, a widow lady, and two children 
blessed their union, viz.: Robert S., of whom a 
sketch follows, and Margaret E., deceased wife of 
Robert Scott, a merchant of Florence, Penn. Mr. 
and Mrs. McCullough resided in Florence, where 
he followed his trade for many years. He finally 
bought a farm, which his son managed, the father 
continuing to reside in town. John McCullough 
was possessed of a very sympathetic nature'', and 
was a warm friend of the colored race, having been 
a sturdy Abolitionist; in politics he was an enthu- 
siastic advocate of the principles embodied in the 
Democratic platform. He served as justice of the 






992 



WL 1 SITING TON COUNTY. 



peace in Hanover township for thirty-two years, 
giving perfect satisfaction. He and his wife were 
members of the Presbyterian Church, in which he 
was trustee. He died June 4, 1875, mourned by 
many warm friends. His widow is yet living with 
her son Robert S., and her step is as firm, her 
movements as swift as those of many a woman of 
sixty years, though she has passed her four score 
years and six. 

Robert S. McCullough, son of John and Deborah 
McCullough, was born February 14, 1844, in Flor- 
ence, Penn., and received a common-school educa- 
tion. He was an active, energetic youth, and 
passed his early manhood in various pursuits. On 
February 27, 1868, he was united in marriage with 
Miss Carrie Shields, who was born in 1842 in Han- 
over township. The young couple first located in 
Florence, Penn., and in 1874 moved to the farm in 
Hanover township, which he now occupies. He 
purchased it on time, and by excellent manage- 
ment combined with industry soon freed his home 
from debt. He believes in looking at the bright 
side of life; therefore, while many others were 
wasting time grumbling about " hard times," he 
was persevering in the duties of each day, until he 
is now recognized as one of the most systematic 
and successful farmers of Hanover township. Mr. 
McCullough deals extensively in stock and wool, 
and is specially interested in the wool-grow- 
ing industry. Politically he has always supported 
the Democratic party; his wife is a member of the 
Cross Roads Presbyterian Church. Mr. McCul- 
lough has never sought political preference, choosing 
rather to devote his time and attention to his varied 
business interests, in which he has been eminently 
successful. His career in life furnishes a striking 
example of what may be accomplished by energy 
and enterprise. Starting at the foot of the ladder, 
with a capital consisting of naught but pluck and 
energy, he has pushed himself forward through his 
own efforts, unaided save by the wise counsels of a 
faithful wife. 



PHILIP CURRY is a son of Jesse Curry, 
whose father, Andrew, was a native of Vir- 
ginia, m soldier in the war of 1812, and 
died in 1868. 
Jesse ( 'urry was born in 1817, in the 
Shenandoah Valley, Ya., coming in 1827 with his 
parents t > Pennsylvania. In 1843 he was married 
to I tebeoca A xt ell, who was born in 1807, in Frank- 
lin township, Washington Co., Penn., a daughter 
of Philip Axtell. Mr. Axtell was born in 1778 
in New Jersey, and at the age of eighteen years 
came to Pennsylvania, following farming all his 
life. He served several terms as justice of tin- 
peace, and died in 1875. To the union of Jesse 
and Rebecca (Axtell) Curry three sons have been 



born, as follows: William 13. (deceased), born in 
1846; Philip, whose name opens this sketch; and 
Richmond L., a carpenter, living in this county, 
born in 1852. Mr. Curry was too old to enter the 
war, but was represented by his two eldest sons. 

Philip Curry was born May 4, 1848, in Morris 
township, Washington Co., Penn., and attended the 
home school during his boyhood. In 1864 he en- 
listed in Co. C, Ringgold Cavalry Battalion, taking 
part in the battle of Droop Mountain and in 
numerous skirmishes. At the close of the war he 
returned to his father's farm in Washington county, 
and January 17, 1867, he was married to Eliza 
Jane Yoders, by which union four children — three 
daughters and one son — were born, viz.: Minnie 
Viola, Emma R., Clara M. and ( )scar. Mr. Curry's 
second marriage was on June 27, 1877, with Sarah 
E., daughter of Andrew J. Curry, and by her seven 
children were born, viz.: Daisy 1)., Sidna W., 
William B., .Joseph P., James V., Alice L. and 
Francis M. 



DEMAS M. FRAZEE, senior member of the 
linn of Frazee & McClain, dealers in boots 
j and shoes, Washington, is a native of Wash- 
ington county, Penn., born January <i, 1854. 
His grandfather, David Frazee, came to the county 
when a small boy, and in after years became an ex- 
tensive landowner, having several hundred acres. 
He was here married to Catherine Sutton, and they 
both died in this county, the latter in 1850, the 
former in 1855. Three of their children lived to 
maturity: David, Andrew S., and a daughter who 
was married to Peter Miller, but died soon there- 
after. 

Andrew S. Frazee was born in 1816, near the 
present village of Lone Pine, in Washington 
county. He received his education at the schools 
of the place of his nativity, and was reared to farm 
life. In the summer of 1861 he enlisted in Co. 
A, Twenty-second Cavalry (Ringgold Battalion), 
in which he served over one and one-half years, 
when he was seized with typhoid fever, in conse- 
quence of which he was discharged, and on his re- 
turn home he resumed the peaceful occupations of 
the farm. In 1836 he was married to Miss Leah 
Moninger, who bore him fourteen children, ten of 
whom grew to maturity, viz.: Catherine A., who 
married Richard McMillan, and died in Missouri; 
Martin V., now in the commission business in Chi- 
cago; Mary J., widow of Robert C. Vandegrift, of 
Washington; Sarah E., wife of H. H. Riggle, of 
Amwell township; David L., also in Amwell town- 
ship; Demas M.; Permelia S., wife of James E. 
Reynolds, in Washington; Priscilla \Y, married to 
T. J. Harshman, of Washington; Clarinda C, wife 
of William Moore, in Chicago; and Maggie L., in 
Amwell township. One of the family, Barbara A., 



IF. I SUING TON COUNTY. 



993 



died at the age of fifteen years. The father died 
in November, 1889, his death being 1 caused by the 
bursting of a bloodvessel while coughing; one year 
previously he was stricken with paralysis, from 
which he had partly recovered. The mother is 
still living, at the age of seventy-two years. 

Demas M. Frazee remained on the old home 
farm until he attained manhood, and while his father 
and eldest brother, Martin V., were gone to the 
war, all the general care of the farm devolved on 
David L. and himself, then mere lads. Many a day 
before he was nine years of age did he have to fol- 
low the plow and attend to the general work of the 
farm; but he yet found time to improve his mind, 
for he attended both the common schools of his 
township and the Lone Pine Academy. In course 
of time he taught school two winters in Amwell 
township, but during the gresiter part of the follow- 
ing winter he was laid up with typhoid fever. In 
the following summer ( 1881 ) he opened out a gen- 
eral store at the locality where is now Topsail post- 
office, whence after a time he moved to the village 
of California, on the Monongahela river, where he 
remained about five and one-half years, engaged 
in general merchandise business. Selling this 
establishment out, he came to the borough of 
Washington, and in February, 1885, formed a 
partnership with R. C. Vandegrift in the bcot and 
shoe business, the firm later becoming Frazee & 
Montgomery, by the retirement of Mr. Vandegrift 
in favor of 15. F. Montgomery, which continued 
until February, 1891, when the present firm of 
Frazee <& McClain was formed by the retirement 
of Mr. Montgomery in favor of Hiram McClain. 
In 1883 Mr. Frazee was married to Miss Joanna L., 
daughter of Isaac Powell, of California, this county- 
Her father died in 1879; her mother, Caroline 
Shutterly, is still living in Washington. Mr. Fra- 
zee is a member of the Christian Church, of which 
he is treasurer and a deacon, and of its Sunday- 
school he was superintendent one year. Socially 
he is a member of the Equitable Aid Union, and is 
a popular, progressive, wide-awake citizen. 



If I ENRY BROSCHART, the genial and pop- 
|»— I ular landlord of the " Auld House," Wash- 
ington, was born December 17, 1849, in the 
JJ - 1 town of Permesence, Germany, of which 
' country his father was also a native, born 

in 1820. The elder Broschart, who is a stonemason 
by trade, came with his family to America in 1852, 
and made a settlement in Sullivan county, Penn., 
where he now resides. He is a Democrat, and a 
member of the Catholic Church. In the Father- 
land he had married Mary Press, who bore him chil- 
dren as follows: Frederick, Christian, Henry, Jacob, 
Michael, Frances, Gottlieb and Mary, the last two 
named beincr deceased. 



Henry Broschart came with the family to the United 
States, and here he was reared to manhood and edu- 
cated. His first business was lumbering in Forest, 
Clarion and Jefferson counties, Penn., and then he 
went into the oil country where he kept hotel until 
1885, in which year he moved to Washington, this 
county. Here he conducted the " Rush House" for 
one and one half years, and then leased the " Auld 
House" which he manages with well-merited suc- 
cess. On June 19, 1878, Mr. Broschart was united 
in marriage with Lena, daughter of Valentine Smith 
of Sullivan county, Penn., and the children born to 
them were Helen, Ernest, Leo, Paul and Clara, the 
last named being deceased. Mr. Broschart has 
lately been interested in an extensive glass indus- 
try at Redkey, Ind. He is a sound Democrat, and 
in religion is a member of the Catholic ( 'hurch. 




RS. JANE BOYD is one of the popular 
and intelligent ladies of Canonsburg. Her 
father, Zacheus Patterson, was born and 
reared in Cumberland county, Penn., 
where he was married to Margaret, a native 
of Adams county, same State, daughter of David 
and Jane (Carrick) Waugh. The young couple 
made their home in Cumberland county till 1808, 
when he purchased a farm in North Strabane town- 
ship, this county, to which they removed. The par- 
ents were members of the Chartiers Seceder Church, 
and the father was an active worker in the Whig 
party. They were the parents of the following 
children: John, Robert, David, Stewart, Sarah, 
Ezra, James, Josiah, Eliza, Tabitha, Jane and Mary. 
Of this family Jane grew to womanhood and on 
March 15, 1835, gave her band in marriage to Wil- 
son Boyd, son of Hugh Boyd. 

Hugh Boyd, a native of Ireland, was there married 
to Elizabeth Scott, who bore him children as fol- 
lows: Mary, Robert, Wilson, Bankhead, Margaret 
and Joseph. In 1823 the family came to America, 
first locating on Mingo creek, Nottingham town- 
ship, Washington Co., Penn., where they remained 
some time, thence removing to the farm now occu- 
pied by C. M. Berry. Hugh Boyd was a Whig in 
politics, and in religion a member of the Seceder 
Church in Ireland, having transferred his member- 
ship to the church in Washington county, Penn., 
after his immigration. He and his wife died in 
South Strabane township, this county, and both are 
buried in the cemetery at Pigeon Creek. 

Wilson Boyd was born August 9, 1800, near the 
town of Newtown, Limavadv, County Derry, Ire- 
land, there receiving his early education. At the 
age of eighteen years he immigrated to Canada, 
then went to Philadelphia, thence to Pittsburgh, 
and worked on a farm in Washington county, Penn., 
until the arrival of his family, when he lived with 
his parents. After his marriage with Miss Patter- 



994 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



son he settled in North Strabane township, this 
county, residing there fourteen years. They then 
moved to Somerset township, where Mr. Boyd died 
in 1876. He was a Whig and Republican, and in 
religion was formerly a member of the Seceder 
Church at Pigeon Creek, afterward uniting with 
the U. P. Church, to which he gave a liberal sup- 
port. Mrs. Boyd continued to reside in Somerset 
township till 1890, when she moved to Canonsburg 
where sue has her home. She reared the following 
named children: Robert, David, Elizabeth, Hugh S., 
Bankhead, Sarah M., Mary J., Robert and Anna T. 
( If these David enlisted in Company G, One Hun- 
dred and Fortieth Regiment P. V. I., and was killed 
at the battle of Gettysburgb. Elizabeth was married 
to Murdoch Smith, and has one son, Boyd D., born 
March 27, 1S7S. Hugh S., married to Bell J. Wat- 
son, was licensed to preach the Gospel August 8, 
1876, by the United Presbyterian Presbytery of 
Cleveland, and ordained and installed pastor of the 
Vnited Presbyterian congregation at New Bedford, 
Lawrence Co., Penn., where he remained until the 
early part of 1888, when he accepted the pastorate 
of the U. P. congregation at Greensburgh, Penn.; 
he graduated at Westminster College, at New 
Wilmington, Lawrence Co., Penn., in June, 1875, 
standing second in a good class. Bankhead was 
graduated from Washington and Jefferson College 
in June, 1867; he was licensed to preach the Gospel 
by the United Presbyterian Presbytery of Chartiers 
in January, 1870, and died March 7, same year. 
Sarah M. died March 2, L869. Mary .1., died May 
27, 1871. Robert died January 17, 187:5. 



dAMKS MILLER. In the array of progressive 
agriculturists who have risen to prominence, 
and who have contributed substantially to 
the material prosperity of Washington county, 
stands the worthy man whose name opens this 
biographical sketch. 

James Miller, grandfather of subject, was born 
in the Emerald Isle, immigrating to America in 
early manhood. He first located in Lancaster 
county, Penn., where in 1782 he married Miss 
Margaret Shearer, who was also born in Ireland. 
In L786 the young couple moved to Washington 
county, Penn., and made a home on the farm in 
Mt. Pleasant township now occupied by their 
descendants. Mr. Miller made three visits to 
Ireland after settling in America. He took an 
active part in politics, and served his township as 
justice of the peace. He died in 1819 in Mt. 
Pleasant township, his widow surviving him many- 
years. Both were members of the Seceder Church. 
John Miller, father of subject, was born on the 
home farm in Mt. Pleasant township, and in 1815 
was united in marriage with Margaret Miller, a 
native of Ireland, who came with her parents to 



America in 1811. After their marriage Mr. and 
Mrs. Miller settled on the home farm, where seven 
children were born to them, namely: Margaret, 
who was married to John Givan, of Beaver county, 
Penn., and died in 1872; James; Sarah, married to 
William Marshall, of near Lawrence, Kans.; Mary, 
who was married to Robert Givan, of Beaver 
county, Penn., and died in 1872;. Nancy, first 
married to Samuel H. White (who was murdered 
for money in 1857, hi Chartiers township), now 
living in New Concord, Ohio, the widow of Rev. 
McManus; Elizabeth, who married John Miller, 
and died in July, 1890; and Ann, deceased wife of 
J. G. Paxton, of Chartiers township, this county. 
Mr. Miller, who always followed farming, died in 
1 859, when over seventy years of age, his widow 
surviving him till 1871. Both were formerly 
members of the Seceder Church, afterward uniting 
with the Chartiers Cross Roads United Presbyterian 
Congregation. 

James Miller, the subject proper of this memoir, 
was born September 23, 1819, on the old home 
farm in Mt. Pleasant township, Washington < o., 
Penn., where he grew to manhood, receiving his 
education in the primitive subscription schools of 
the period. On February 11, 1852, he was united 
in marriage with Margaret Givan, a native of 
Beaver county, Penn., daughter of William and 
Letitia Givan, natives of Ireland, who made their 
permanent home in Beaver county, Penn. The 
father died in 1873, the mother having passed away- 
some years before. After their marriage Mrs. 
Miller lived on the home farm, eight miles from 
Washington, which contains 257 acres of well- 
improved land, and has been in the possession of 
the family for 106 years. Mr. Miller has erected 
a good residence, a tenant house, three comfortable 
barns and two sheep houses, all commodious and 
well-built. Politically he is a Democrat, has served 
as supervisor, and nine years on the school board. 
He and his wife have been members of the Chartiers 
Cross Roads United Presbyterian Church for forty 
years. They have no children. 




NDREW J. PROUDFIT is descended from 
a well-known family of Washington county. 
His grandfather, David Proudfit, was a na- 
tive of Scotland, and coming to America 
located in York county, Penn., where his 
son John was born January 28,1775. In L802 
John Proudfit came to Washington county, Penn., 
locating in Hanover township. On April '.<, 1809, 
he was united in marriage with Elizabeth Lyle, a 
native of Cross Creek (then Hopewell) township, 
born March 21, 1793. She was a daughter of John 
and Elizabeth ( Bays) lyle. Some time after their 
marriage John and Elizabeth (Lyle) Proudfit re- 
turned to York county, Penn., as the father of John 



WASHING TON COCA TV. 



997 



was growing old and feeble, and needed the care 
of his children. The young couple remained on 
the home farm until the father's death, which oc- 
curred in 1826, and John and his family then again 
moved to Washington county, settling one mile 
west of Burgettstown, where he passed the re- 
mainder of his life. The trips across the mountains 
were full of danger and accompanied with many 
inconveniences. On one occasion Mr. and Mrs. 
Proudfit rode three hundred miles on horseback to 
visit relatives in York county, Penn., the wife car- 
rying an infant in her arms, and many hardships 
were endured on the journey. The following chil- 
dren were born to these pioneers: David, born Au- 
gust 13, 1810 (deceased September 19, 1813); 
John L., born September 3,1812 (deceased Sep- 
tember 22, 1882); James K., born April 21, 1815 
(deceased February 25, 1816) ; Eliza J., born Janu- 
ary 2, 1817, was married to Arthur Campbell, of 
Smith township (and died December 7, 1892); 
Agnes, born June 17, 1819 (deceased August 15, 
lS'Jh; Robert F., born December 23, L821 (de- 
ceased); Cinderella, born September 16, 182 1 ( wife 
of Jacob Proudfit, a native of Ashland county, 
Ohio); William, born May 10, 1828; Andrew J., 
born March 20, 1831; and Eleanor, born August 
29, 1833 (Mrs. Thomas Shipley, of Hanover town- 
ship, this county). 

Andrew J. Proudfit was born on the old home 
farm, situated one mile and a half west of Bur- 
gettstown, this county, where he was trained to 
agricultural pursuits from early bovhood, receiving 
an education in the common schools. On January 
21, 1865, he was married to Elizabeth Porter, who 
was born September 19, 1839, daughter of Andrew 
Porter, of Jefferson township, this county. One 
daughter has been born to Andrew J. and Eliza- 
beth (Porter) Proudfit, namely: Ida A., who gradu- 
ated from Washington Female Seminary in the 
class of 1890, and still remains with her parents. 
Since his marriage Mr. Proudfit has resided on a 
farm one and a half miles north of Burgettitown, 
and has followed farming and stock-raising, giving 
special attention to fine-wool sheep. He is well 
and favorably known as a good citizen and success- 
ful farmer, and is surrounded by many friends. In 
politics he has been a lifelong Democrat. He and 
his wife are both members of the Presbyterian 
Church. 



H/ENRY CHAPMAN. Among the success- 
ful agriculturists and business men of Wash- 
ington county none stands higher in the 
) — * estimation of the intelligent members of the 
community than the gentleman whose name 
here appears. 

He comes of rugged, loyal Scotch- Irish ancestry, 
his grandfather, Richard Chapman, Sr., having 
i; 



been born in County Monaghan, Ireland, where he 
married Sarah Patterson, also a native of that 
county, and where six children came to brighten 
their home, an humble one indeed, for -they were 
poor but honest small farm tenants. Having now 
so many mouths to fill, and little ones to clothe 
besides themselves, the parents decided on seek- 
ing a new home in America, " where children are 
blessings, and he who hath most, hath aid for his 
fortune, and riches to boast." Accordingly they 
took passage for themselves and six children on a 
vessel sailing from Belfast, and as they gazed from 
the deck, with tear-bedimmed eyes, on the now 
fast receding isle of their birth and childhood, 
their hearts were buoyed with hope for a bright 
and happy future, the hope that ever "springs 
eternal in the human breast." But, alas! they had 
not proceeded far on the briny deep ere misfortune 
befel the little family circle. The vessel was 
overcrowded, water was scarce, the weather tem- 
pestuous, and as a consequence sickness came 
among them — a sickness so fatal that all the chil- 
dren of Mr. and Mrs. Chapman succumbed, sank to 
the " dreamless rest that lulls the dead," and were 
buried at sea. 

With resolute purpose and stout hearts the be- 
reaved parents, after landing in Philadelphia, 
strangers in a strange land, and possessing but 
little of this world's goods, started out, for the then 
" Far West," with no small difficulty ultimately 
succeeding in reaching Washington county, Penn., 
where they made a settlement in Mount Pleasant 
township. Here they built them a log cabin, and 
here they experienced all the hardships and en- 
countered the many dangers incident to pioneer 
life. Six children, four sons and two daughters, 
were born to them in this, their new home, the 
following 1 being- a brief record of them: Robert 
moved to Ohio, becoming an early settler in 
Holmes county, where he died; Mary married 
James McNinch, and lived and died in West Fin- 
ley township; Andrew was a farmer in Donegal 
township, where he died; Alexander died in Clays- 
ville, this county, where he kept store; Jane mar- 
ried Joel Lamborn,and died in Washington county, 
where she had passed her entire life; Richard, Jr., 
will have special mention presently. The father 
of this family died in Mount Pleasant township, 
near Hickory, May 26, 1803, the mother passing 
away December 17, 1826, in Pittsburgh, Penn., 
while visiting friends. 

Richard Chapman, Jr., was born May 15, 1794, 
on the old homestead in Mount Pleasant township, 
and received but a meager education at the primi- 
tive subscription schools of the day. When he 
was yet a boy his father died, and his mother then 
conducted a roadside inn near the town of Hickory, 
which tavern enjoyed considerable patronage from 
the traveling public, particularly emigrants moving 



998 



WASHINGTON COCXTY. 



westward. At this time Richard's spare hours 
from school were spent in assisting his mother, and 
so continued until his marriage, when he settled 
on a farm in the same township, where he followed 
agriculture up to the time of his death. On Feb 
ruary 3, 1815, he was married to Catherine Upde- 
graff, a member of an old Washington county 
family, who was born December 22, 17'Jo. The 
children born to this union were as follows: Pat- 
terson, born November 15, 1815, a physician, who 
died in Belmont county, Ohio, at the age of 
seventy-two years; John, born April 20, 1817, 
died when ten years of age; Andrew, born Decem- 
ber 10, 181 S, died at the age of thirty-one years; 
Richard, born October 22, 1820, died aged fifty-five 
years in Tuscarawas county, Ohio, where he was 
practicing medicine; Margaret, born duly 31, 1822, 
died unmarried; Henry, the subject of our bio- 
graphical narrative; Julia, born July 15, 1826, 
deceased wife of A. C. Chapman; Eliza Jane, born 
September 29, 1828, wife of Benjamin Bungard, 
of Greene county, Penn.; Alexander, born Sep- 
tember 5, 1831, died aged fifty; Hiram J., born 
June 1, 1833, resides in Guernsey county, ( )hio, 
where he is a physician; Barzillai, born October 2, 
is:!."), is a physician in Bakersville, Coshocton Co., 
( )hio, where he now resides; Robert U., born July 
24, 1837, is practicing medicine in Des Moines, 
Iowa; and Minerva, born June 2, 1839, died in 
infancy. The father of this large family was called 
from earth June 6, 1861, in Greene county, Penn., 
whither he had moved. Be was a member of the 
Disciple Church at Hickory, as was also his widow. 
In politics he was a strong Democrat, a prominent 
figure in the party. For seventeen years he was 
constable of the township, and was a widely known 
and very popular man in the community. His 
widow survived him a few years, dying suddenly 
December 25, 1866, of heart disease, while on a 
visit to her sons in Ohio. 

Henry Chapman was born September 1, 1824, in 
Hickory, Mount Pleasant township, Washington 
Co., Penn., his education ( which was most limited, 
as he had to commence working for himself very 
early in life ) being secured at the common schools 
of the district. At the age of twelve years he left 
home, and for some time worked for James Ross, 
a farmer in the same township, after which he 
worked at various other places until 1847, when he 
went to Belmont county, Ohio, whence in 1850 he 
returned to Washington county, settling on a farm 
on Buok run, in Donegal township, where he has 
since resided, and which property he purchased in 
1875. This highly improved piece of land is sit- 
uated about two miles southwest of Atchison, and 
is equipped with some of the finest farm buildings 
in the township. On February 24, 1848, Mr. 
Chapman was united in marriage with Susan Bot- 
kins, a native of Belmont county, Ohio, born in 



1 832, a daughter of Col. R. C. Botkins, of that 
locality. Col. Botkins was born in Fayette county, 
Penn. He was married April 16, ISIS, to Rachel 
Vernon, of same county, and three children were 
there born to them. After moving to Ohio the 
Colonel was engaged in farming, and he and his 
wife passed the rest of their days there, the former 
dying in 1S61 at the age of sixty-seven years, the 
latter in 1810 at about the age of fifty years. Col. 
Botkins was a school teacher for a time, in both 
Pennsylvania and Ohio, and Mrs. Chapman has in 
her possession some of the books he used. The 
arithmetic is written in a neat, legible hand, show- 
ing much care and proficiency. He was active in 
the cause of education, and in military matters he 
took much interest, rising to the rank of colonel. 
Ten children were born to him and his wife, nine 
of whom attained adult age, four of them being yet 
alive, viz.: Benjamin V. (in Adams county, Iowa ) ; 
Elma Ann (widow of David Bell, and residing in 
Iowa); Susan (Mrs. Henry Chapman ), and Isaac 
Harry (in Bates county, Mo.). 

Eleven children have come to bless our subject 
and wife: Frank, a farmer in Baylor county, 
Tex.; Maria, deceased in infancy; Eber, died at the 
a^e of twenty-four years; Margaret, living with 
her parents; Henry, a resident of Lincoln, Kas.; 
Ella, wife of Edward Kinyon, in Nebraska; Rachel, 
at home with her parents; Clara, who died at the 
age of fourteen years; Eva, wife of Frank Linville, 
of Donegal township; Cora, a school teacher, living 
with her parents; and A. Campbell, also at the 
paternal home. Mr. and Mrs. Chapman are con- 
sistent members of the Dutch Fork Disciple 
Church, and in politics he is a lifelong Democrat. 
His fine farm comprises 200 acres of prime land, 
and he raises pure-bred Spanish Merino sheep, of 
which he has a flock of 350; also Devonshire and 
Jersey cattle. He has in his possession a church 
" letter " over 100 years old from the Seceder 
Church in Monaghan, Ireland, to the church here, 
which letter was brought by his grandfather from 
across the ocean. Mr. Chapman is a highly re- 
spected citizen, justly honored and admired for his 
many noble traits of character. He is a typical 
self-made man, one who has fought his way un- 
aided through life, his weapons — a stout heart and 
willing band; his watchword and battle- cry — " Ex- 
celsior." 



"XT OI. BERT T. SHIPLEY, one of the oldest 

and best-known native-born residents of 

Smith township, was born April 10, 1S12, a 

I) son of John Shipley, whose father was a na- 

V tive of Maryland. 

John Shipley was born about twelve miles from 
Baltimore, Md., and passed his boyhood in his na- 
tive State, there receiving his early education. At 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



999 



the age of twenty-one years he came to Washing- 
ton county, Penn., and purchased a wild tract of 
land in Smith township, to which he added from 
time to time until he had 135 acres, where a log 
cabin was erected. He was united in marriage 
with Miss Lydia Day, and to this marriage were 
born the following children: Benjamin, George, 
John, William, Nancy, Tolbert T., Richard, 
Samuel, Catherine, Rachel and Henry. John 
Shipley was an active worker in the Whig party, 
and in religious faith a member of the M. E. 
Church. 

Tolbert T. Shipley received his early education 
at the primitive log schoolhouses of the day, with 
no floor, puncheon seats and greased paper win- 
dows. Their first instruction was given from a 
paddle upon which some of the more simple char- 
acters were inscribed. On January 8, 1834, he 
was united in marriage with Ellen, daughter of 
Samuel Clokey, of Smith township, this county. 
Samuel Clokey was born and reared to farm life; 
he married Sarah Thompson, a native of Lancaster 
county, Penn., and coming to Washington in an 
early day, settled in Smith township. In politics 
he was a Democrat, and in religion a member of 
the Presbyterian Church. He died April 12, IS Is, 
leaving children as follows: Mary (Mrs. David 
Woods), Andrew, William, Robert, Elizabeth, 
Sarah, Margaret, Jane, Ellen (Mrs. Shipley ) and 
Julia. 

Tolbert T. and Ellen Shipley resided on the old 
farm three years after their marriage, then lived in 
Carroll county, Ohio, four years, finally returning 
to the home place, and in 1870 settled in Burgetts- 
town, where they are yet living. As no children 
have blessed their union, they took as their own a 
niece, Martha Pyles, who was married to Capt. 
.1. 1 1. Day. After her marriage, Mr. and Mrs. 
Shipley took a boy named Pressby, who is now 
living in Mansfield, Penn. They then took a young 
girl named Agnes Bell, who remained with them 
until her marriage to William D. Andrews, and is 
now living in Dennison, Ohio. Politically, Mr. 
Shipley was first a Whig and then a Democrat. In 
religion he is a member of the Presbyterian Church 
at Burgettstown. 



p^> REER Mc.MAXNIS, a representative citizen 
of Buffalo township, is a son of James, and 
nephew of John McMannis, whose father, 
William, was born in the year 1787, in East- 
ern Pensylvaftia. 
William McMannis passed his youth at home 
and then came to Washington county, Penn., set- 
tling in Canton township. He was married to 
Elizabeth, daughter of Patrick Burns, a native of 
Ireland, and the children born to them were as fol- 
lows: John, William, James, Ann, Elizabeth and 



Hannah. Mr. McMannis sold his farm in Canton 
township, then located on a farm in South Strabaue 
township, and in 1830 came to Buffalo township, 
settling on a farm in Pleasant valley, where he died 
in 1849, being followed by his wife in 1873. In 
politics he was a Whig. 

James McMannis was born, in 1825, in Canton 
township, Washington Co., Penn., and was edu- 
cated in the district schools. He was married Feb- 
ruary 23, 1854, to Caroline, daughter of Greer 
Hair, of Buffalo township, and after marriage he 
settled near Claysville, this county, where he re- 
mained eleven years; then purchased a farm of 170 
acres, which he continued to improve up to the time 
of his death. His children were: William, Lizzie, 
Mary (Mrs. James W. Hodgens), Greer, Flora, 
Sylvia (Mrs. Joseph Lacroix) and Kate. The 
mother of this family died in September, 1877, the 
father on November 26, L891. He owed his suc- 
cess to a life of industry. In politics he was a 
Democrat. 

Greer McMannis was born March 28, 1861, and 
passed his youth on the home place, where he has 
since resided, receiving a common-school education. 
On January 15, 1885, he was married to Jennie, 
daughter of Alexander Buchanan, of Taylorstown, 
this county, and they have one child — Ella V. 
Mr. McMannis is an enterprising, progressive citi- 
zen, and a worthy representative of the name he 
bears. Politically, he is an ardent member of the 
Democratic party. 



ILLIAM S. KAMMERER, commission 
merchant, No. 35 Board of Trade Build- 
ing, Chicago, 111., was born on the old 
™ homestead farm of his father in Notting- 
ham township, Washington county, Penn., Febru- 
ary 23, 1843, a son of John and Elizabeth (Bender) 
Kammerer. He was educated in the common 
school of his native township, and immediately after 
his father's death ( then but thirteen years of age ) 
he entered the store at the old homestead as clerk, 
where he remained until about the age of twenty, 
when he engaged with J. S. Dilworth & Co., of 
Pittsburgh, in the wholesale grocery business as 
clerk. His health, however, apparently giving 
way, he, at the solicitation of his brother Joseph, 
opened a general store at Hillsboro, Penn. But 
finding this a very limited field for success, after 
about one year he removed to Baltimore, Md., 
where he engaged in furnishing grain to Govern- 
ment contractors, which business, though profitable, 
came to a close with the war, after which he removed 
to Springfield, 111., and engaged as clerk in the 
dry-goods store of Kimber, Ragsdale & Co., where 
he remained almost four years. Returning to the 
old homestead in the fall of 1868, he conneoted 
himself in business with his brothers, Joseph, and 




1000 



WASHING TON f Ot'XTY. 



Frank G., under the firm name of Kammerer 
Brothers, remaining in the above firm until the 
spring of 1873. 

On October 31, 1872, Mr. Kammerer was mar- 
ried to Miss Mattie G. Emery, daughter of Or. 
Boyd Emery, of Dunningsville, same county. In 
the following spring lie located in Monongabela 
City, where he engaged in the dry-goods, notion 
and millinery business. In 187!) he sold out, and 
removed to Washington, where he engaged in the 
same business, remaining there until 1879, when, 
owing to severe illness, he closed out his business, 
and again returned to the old homestead. Improv- 
ing in health, he went into his brother's store as 
clerk, where he remained until the summer of 1881, 
when he removed to Chicago, and engaged in the 
grain eommisssion business with his brother Frank 
G., where he still remains. Mr. Kammerer resides 
at Riverside, a suburb of Chicago. He and his 
wife are the parents of one child, Boyd L., born 
December 21, L876. Mr. and Mrs. Kammerer are 
members of the Presbyterian Church, of which he 
has been a trustee and treasurer during the past 
five years in the church at Riverside. 



IIOMAS SLATER, a well-know farmer of 
Cecil township, is a son of James Slater, 
who was born, in 17(57, in County Armagh, 
Ireland, and learned the shoemaker's trade. 
In 1792 he embarked on an American-bound 
vessel, landing tirst in New York City, where he 
followed his trade, and was married to Martha 
Thompson. She was a native of Ireland, and a 
fellow- voyager with Mr. Slater. In 1800 they 
came to Allegheny county, Perm., soon afterward 
locating on the farm where he died in 1842, having 
been preceded by his wife in 1832. They were 
members of the Reformed Presbyterian Church, in 
which he was ruling elder for many years. Their 
children were: Mary, who married Matthew Craw- 
ford, of Mt. Pleasant township, and died in 1832; 
Elizabeth, married to William Crawford, and died 
in 1838; John, who died in infancy; John (who 
died in March, 1883 ), married to Margaret George 
Thompson of Pittsburgh, Penn., and first locating 
in Allegheny county, afterward moved to Cecil 
township, this county; James (a shoemaker and 
farmer, deceased in 1863, married to Margaret 
Watters, of Allegheny county, Penn., thence 
moving to Indiana); William (married in 1854 to 
Margaret McCoy of West Virginia), was pastor of 
the Reformed Presbyterian Church at Miller's Run 
between the years 1843 and 1847, then resigned 
on account of ill health and died March 24, 1889; 
Margaret (deceased in March, 1891 at Beaver 
Falls, Penn.), became the wife of John McAnlis, of 
Heaver county, Penn.; Jane, widow of John George, 
of Mt. Pleasant township, now residing at Beaver 



Falls, Penn.; Thomas, of whom a sketch follows; 
and Martha, unmarried, who died in 1839, in Beaver 
county, Penn. 

Thomas Slater was born in 1819, in North 
Fayette township, Allegheny Co., Perm., arrd 
received his early education in the subscription 
schools of that locality. In 1813 he came to Mt. 
Pleasant township, this county, locating near 
Hickory, and was married same year to Christina 
J., a native of Pittsburgh, and daughter of William 
and Margaret (George) Thompson. The father was 
born in Allegheny county, Perm., and the mother 
was a native of Mt. Pleasant township. After 
their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Slater resided on a 
farm near Hickory until September, 1855, when he 
came to his present farm in Cecil township, this 
county. It contains 173 acres of good land, upon 
which he has erected a comfortable house and 
commodious barn, also made various other improve- 
ments. The following children have been born to 
this union: William T., a teacher of Wilkinsburg, 
Perm.; John R., living in Cecil township; George 
W., a physician in Baltimore, Md.; Elizabeth G., 
wife of Sherman G. Sackett, Colorado; Jane Allison, 
married to F. L. McClelland of Topeka, Kans.; 
Anna, who died in 1872; Emma arrd Ella (twins); 
Margaret wife of Dr. S. A. S. Metheney, arrd 
Thomas Melville. 

Mr. Slater has much of the force and foresight 
that characterizes all self-made men, who, from 
small beginnings, have carved out for themselves a 
competence or a fortune. Himself a diligent reader, 
and a consistent friend of higher education, he has 
spared no pains to give his family advantages in 
this respect, often at much personal self sacrifice. 
He is a man of strong character and of well-defined 
opinions, especially on moral questions; and stands 
high in the estimation of all who know him, or have 
dealings with him, for his personal integrity and 
worth. In his early life he traveled somewhat in 
the West and South, visiting at one time in South 
Carolina where friends of his mother lived, near 
Abbeville; since the Civil war, however, he has 
heard nothing of them. Cousin " Jimmy Wilson " 
had a large plantation and many slaves. 



FRANK G. KAMMERER, commission mer- 
chant, and prominent and influential as a 
member of the Board of Trade, Chicago, 
111., is a native of Washington county, Penn., 
born February 24, 1S45, on the old homestead 
farm of his father in Nottingham township. 

John Kammerer, father of the subject of this 
memoir, was born in 1790, in Germany, where he 
was educated and became prominent in business 
circles as a lumber merchant in the city of Frank- 
fort-on-the-Main. He was twice married in his 
native land; tirst in 1820, to Margaret Dunker, by 









y$$& 






'% 




'Pa> 






WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1003 



whom he had five children, and she dying in 1830, 
he married for his second wife Elizabeth Bender. 
In 1831 he and his family came to America, settling 
in Washington county, Penn., and embarking in 
mercantile and other businesses on a tract of land he 
afterward ( in 1839 ) purchased, in Nottingham town- 
ship. Here were born to him children as follows: 
Jonathan, Joseph, Elizabeth, Jacob, William S. and 
Frank Gr. Of these Jacob died in 1839, and Jona- 
than in 1890. Frank G. and William S. are in 
business in Chicago. The father died July 2-4, 
1856, the mother May 18, 1859. 

Frank G. Kammerer was educated in the common 
schools of his native county, and received a 
thorough business training at the Iron City Com- 
mercial College, Pittsburgh. He then engaged in 
business with his brother in the village of Kam- 
merer, Washington county, remaining there until 
1875, when he traveled for a year, after which he 
embarked in the insurance business at Washington, 
Penn., with Major A. G. Happer, under the firm 
name of Happer and Kammerer. This continued 
until the latter part of September, 1879, when he 
retired from the firm and moved to Chicago. In 
the meantime (in 1877) Mr. Kammerer assumed 
control, as vice-president and general manager, 
under Dr. Geo. P. Hayes, of what became the 
Pittsburgh Southern Railroad (now the B. it ( >. 
Short Line), running from Washington to Pitts- 
hurgh, and built the road from Finleyville to Wash- 
ington. With this road he was connected two 
■years, or until its completion, at which time he 
retired from the management. 

In 1880 Mr. Kammerer became a member of the 
Board of Trade of Chicago, and established the 
present flourishing firm of F. G. Kammerer & Co., 
office No. 35 Board of Trade Building, he being 
sole member of the firm. From the account of 
the Chicago Board of Trade given in Andreas' his- 
tory [" 1885-p. 315"] we quote the following: 
" Frank G. Kammerer is one of the very few busi- 
ness men of Chicago, who, in a comparatively short 
period of time, have been able to firmly establish 
themselves among the ablest and most untiring 
competitors of the most enterprising city in the 
world. Coming here only six years ago from 
Washington county, Penn., where he passed his 
earlier years in the successful prosecution of var- 
ious mercantile and manufacturing enterprises, Mr. 
Kammerer at once engaged in the grain and pro- 
vision trade, and by his energy and business fore- 
sight he has made the house of F. G. Kammerer & 
Co. a synonym for fair dealing and stability. He 
has been a prominent member of the Board of 
Trade since coming to Chicago in 1878, and in 
January, 1884, was honored by being elected a 



member of the committee of arbitration. 



On 



P a .£I 



320, same history, we notice that Mr. Kammerer 
was a member of the committee on arbitration 



1884-85-86, with William Gardner, J. C. -Merrill, 
G. W. Phillips and F. G. Logan. In 1886 Mr. 
Kammerer was elected a director of the Board of 
Trade, serving the full term, retiring in 1889. 

In addition to his Board of Trade business 
interests Mr. Kammerer has made several success- 
ful real estate investments, and is the owner of a 
considerable amount of property. He was one of 
the leading promotors of the artificial ice industry 
in Chicago, and was one of the first stockholders of 
the present company — the Consumers Pure Ice 
Company — of which he was elected president, and 
at present is a director and member of the execu- 
tive committee. This is the largest original enter- 
prise of the kind in Chicago, and one of the largest 
in the world. He is also largely interested in the 
manufacture and introduction of the " Hinson Car 
Coupler," one of the leading couplers of the 
Master Car Builders' type which has recently been 
legalized and endorsed by Congress, and he is 
president of the company that has control of the 
patent. 

On December 9, 1886, Frank G. Kammerer was 
united in marriage with Miss Dorrie List Hildreth, 
daughter of E. A. Hildreth, M. ])., and Susan L. 
McMehen, of Wheeling, W. Va., and two children 
have come to brighten their home: Eugene, born 
January 23, 1888, and Frances, born October 21, 
1889. Mr. Kammerer owns an elegant residence 
on Woodlawn avenue, one of the most beautiful 
and fashionable streets in the "Garden City," South 
Side. 



V ARON BANE, one of the intelligent busi- 
l\ ness men of Amwell township, is a grandson 

r""l\ of Nathan Bane, who with his father and 

/ *i five bi 



A 

J] -* five brothers came from Virginia to Wash- 
/ ington county, Penn., thus becoming iden- 

tified with its earliest history. 

One brother, Joseph, pushed on to the ( thio 
river and died in Kentucky; the others settled in 
Washington county. Indians were numerous in 
those early days, and they had a very disagreeable 
manner of informing the pale-faced intruder of 
their presence, and also of their intentions, which 
were by no means of a friendly nature at that pe- 
riod. It was soon found necessary to organize a 
company in order to provide a defense against 
sudden attacks of the savages, and of this company 
Nathan Bane was made captain. Here follows a 
very interesting item of philological information, as 
given by Mr. Aaron Bane: " While instructing the 
men of the company, Capt. Bane was accustomed 
to give the order "Aim well,' and from this order 
the township received its present name." Mr. 
Bane was married to a Miss Nelson, who bore him 
six children: Abraham, Jake, Hannah, Becky, 
James and Joseph. 



1004 



WASHINGTON COLW TV. 



Joseph Bane was born in 177(3, on the middle 
fork of Ten-Mile creek, and passed his youth at- 
tending the rate schools and assisting on the farm, 
until he was twenty-four years of age, when he took 
the farm now owned and occupied by his son 
Aaron. Mr. Bane died in 1836, in his sixty-second 
\i ar, his wife following him to her long home in 
1839. 

Aaron Bane was born on the old homestead Sep- 
tember 1-4, 1824, and has there passed the sixty- 
eio-ht years of his life. His earlier years were 
employed in farm work and a few months' attend- 
ance at the winter schools. In 1860 he was mar- 
ried to Mary W. Curry, daughter of John and 
Deborah ( 'urry. They have three children: John 
C, Albert G. and Edith. Of these, John C. is a 
rising young lawyer of Washington; Albert G. is 
now twenty-five years of age, and has charge of 
his father's farm of 220 fertile acres, which he will 
eventually own. Mr. Bane has always been a Re- 
publican, while his two sons vote the Democratic 
ticket. The family belong to the earliest settlers 
of the county, and have always been highly es- 
teemed for their moral and intellectual worth. Mr. 
Bane is of Quaker descent, and does honor to his 
ancestors. 



D 



-\ HYDEN VAN KIRK, the oldest living 
representative of his family, was born in 
Franklin township, Washington Co., Penn., 
August '27, 1815. He is a grandson of 
Henry Van Kirk, who was born January 9, 1742, 
and in early manhood was married to Sarah Van- 
Kirk, who was born July 22, 1749. She bore him 
the following children: William, born February 1, 
1763; Johnson, born January 11, 1765; Mary, born 
April 7, 1771; Gideon, born April 19, 1775; Ira, 
born January 29, 1779; Arihur, born June 6, 1781; 
Sarah, born July 18, 1784; Henry and John ( twins ), 
born May 12, 1788; Ann, born January 1(3, 1791; 
Elizabeth, born September 7, J 794, and Jennie, 
born December 14, 1796. Mr. Van Kirk was one 
of the pioneers of Washington county, Penn., and 
settled in Amwell township, where he continued to 
reside until his death, which occurred April 3, 
1797. He was a Federalist in politics, and in re- 
ligion a member of the Baptist Church. 

Henry Van Kirk was born in Amwell township, 
Washington Co., Penn., and passed bis early boy- 
hood in work on the home place; then served an 
apprenticeship as a mason, which trade he followed 
several years. He was united in marriage with 
Ruth Jolly, who was born January 1, 1792, and 
she bore him the following children: Mary E., 
born February 7, 1810; I tryilen, born August 27, 
1815; Jane, born December 12, 1S17; Charles, 
born July 19, 1820; Ruth, born January 15, 1824; 
Susanna, born August 19, 1826, and Milton, born 



May 14, 1829. Mr. Van Kirk first settled in Am- 
well township, Washington county, but afterward 
moved to Franklin township, where he remained 
until his death. He was a member of the Baptist 
Church, and in political views was a Whig. 

Dryden Van Kirk was born on the home farm in 
Franklin township, Washington Co., Penn., and 
passed his youth at home, where he learned of his 
lather the trade of a mason. He followed that 
business throughout his early life, being for many 
years employed in different parts of the county, 
and the testimonials of his skill are yet standing. 
lie is now enjoying the fruits of those early years 
of toil, and is the owner of one of the best farms in 
the township. lie was united in marriage with 
Miss Matilda Sowers, a resident of Winchester, 
Va., and then settled in Franklin township, where 
he has since resided, and reared the following chil- 
dren: John < )., born September IS, ls:i: J >; Henry 
(deceased), born January 11, 1885; William, born 
September 24, 1836; < 'harles, born April 20, L838; 
Simeon (deceased), born September 21, 1840; 
George M. (deceased), born August 12, 1849; 
Nancy J. (Mrs. John McClelland), born July 28, 
1845; Sarah (Mrs. Henry Lindley), born Novem- 
bers, 1847; and Hiram, born May 15, 1858. Mr. 
Van Kirk is an energetic member of the Republi- 
can party. 

John O. Van Kirk was born on the home farm in 
Franklin township, Washington county, and passed 
his early life at home. On November 12. 1868, he 
was united in marriage with Eliza, daughter of 
William Long, and they have two children: Frank 
and Howard. Mr. Van Kirk is an active member 
of the Republican party, and for years has been 
the assessor of Franklin township, and has also 
served as constable many times. The family are 
members of the Disciple Church at Washington. 



E 



MANUEL W. KELLER. This well-known 
citizen is a member of one of the oldest fami- 
lies of Monongahela. His father, George 
J A. Keller, was a native of Bedford county, 
Penn., and there grew to manhood and was married 
to Margaret Waltman, daughter of a neighboring 
farmer. In 1836 George A. Keller and his family 
came to Monongahela, where the following children 
grew to maturity: William I., George A., Andrew 
J., Emanuel \\\, Samuel P., Letnan Me., A. Jane 
(wife of Isaac Vohe ) and Margaret (married to 
John W. Teiters). The mother was a member of 
the Lutheran Church, and later of the M. E. 
Church. 

Emanuel . W. Keller was born November 14, 
1832, in Bedford county, Penn., and 'received his 
early education in the schools of Monongahela. 
He began life for himself at an early age, working 
for some tirm as cabin boy and steward on the 



WAStiim TON COUXTY. 



Kin., 



river boats running to New Orleans. In 1852 he 
opened a grocery store at Monongahela, and con- 
ducted that business for eleven years; then sold 
out and worked in a foundry several years, finally 
purchasing his present dry-goods store in company 
with his brothers, George A. and Samuel P.; 
George A. retired from the business several years 
ago. On June 7, 1855, Emanuel W. Keller was 
united in marriage with Eunice J., daughter of 
Noble Woodard, and she bore him one son, W. 
( lyde E., now deceased. Mr. Keller is a public- 
spirited citizen, and takes an active interest in the 
success of the Republican party. He has been for 
many years a zealous member of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church. 



JAMES McCORMICK NEILL, who now 
occupies the old homestead of the American 
branch of the family, was the first of the fam- 
ily born therein, although it has been the 
property of his ancestors for about a century. 

Reynolds Christy Neill was born in County 
Antrim, Ireland, in 1774, where the Reynolds and 
Neill families were as old as the Pillar Towers. 
He emigrated to America when a young man, and 
located at Canonsburg, Penn. Soon afterward he 
married Sarah Bowlen, and engaged in the mer- 
cantile business, riding to Philadelphia on horse- 
back to order his goods, after which they were 
hauled over the mountains to Canonsburg. He 
was engaged in the mercantile business for many 
years. Reynolds C. Neill was the father of four 
children, namely: Samuel, Reynolds Christy, James 
and Nancy. He purchased a farm in North Stra- 
bane township in 1810, one mile south of Canons- 
burg, which still remains in the. name. 'He died 
April 14, 1842, his wife June 3, 1859, in the eighty- 
sixth year of her age, and both are interred in Oak 
Spring cemetery. Samuel received an education 
at Jefferson College, after which he went West, 
locating at Shelbyville, 111. James married and 
raised a family. He died on his farm in Ohio. 
Nancy died in the thirty-eighth year of her age. 

Reynolds Christy Neill learned the shoemaker's 
trade in his boyhood days at Canonsburg. He was 
married August 7, 1827, to Miss Flora McCormick, 
who was born in Mifflin county, Penn., removing 
with her parents to Ohio in early childhood. In 
L831 they returned to Washington county, and in 
1838 located on the old farm, one mile south of 
Canonsburg, where they resided the rest of their 
lives. He died May 21, 1877, being in the eighty- 
third year of his age. His wife died April 24, 
1887, in the ninetieth year of her age, and both are 
interred in Oak Spring cemetery. Their family 
consisted of six children, namely: Thomas, Samuel, 
Sarah Ann, Nancy Jane, James McCormick and 
Reynolds C. 



Thomas Neill was born September 30, 1829, and 
was married twice, his first wife being Jane Wea- 
ver, to whom two children were born, namely: 
Flora Jane and Thomas Reynolds. They reside on 
part of the old farm. His second wife was Miss 
Kate Kerr. 

Samuel Neill, second son of Reynolds Christy, 
was born May 4, 1833, and was married to Miss 
Lizzie Berry, of Dunningsville, Penn., January 20, 
1859. He is a farmer and stock-raiser, and during 
his stay in this county raised fine Merino sheep. 
On February 22, 1882, he left Washington county 
and located in Humeston, Wayne county, Iowa, 
where he purchased a farm and now resides. His 
family consists of five children, namely: Anna M., 
born May 21, 1801 ; Flora E., born June 5, 1863; 
John Christy, born April 29, 1870; Lizzie E., born 
July 14, 1874, and William M., born February 15, 
1877. Anna and Flora are married, and live in 
Humeston. John attended College, and Lizzie 
attended the High School at Humeston. Samuel 
is an elder in the First Presbyterian Church of 
Humeston. James McCormick, born in 1838, is 
noticed at the close of this sketch. Reynolds 
C, the youngest son, was born October 15, 1840. 
He married Miss Mattie Wilson, May 14, 1885, and 
is the father of two children, Clark and Eva. He 
now resides on Greenside avenue, Canonsburg. 

Sarah Ann and Nancy Jane reside on Central 
avenue, Canonsburg, on the lot where their 
grandfather used to keep his store, 100 years ago. 

James McCormick Neill was born October 1 5, 
1838, he being the first member of his family born 
on the farm which has been so long in the name. 
He was married March 5, 1873, to Miss Mary Eliza- 
beth, daughter of Thos. D. and Eliza Caldwell 
Weaver. Settled near Clinton, Allegheny county, 
and then near Candor, Washington county; re- 
turned to the old homestead in 1890. To them 
were born six children, namely: James Weaver, 
Flora Annetta, Mary, Dora Bell, Elizabeth and 
Edna, all of whom are at home. It has been the 
custom of the family while living on the homestead 
to attend the Chartiers Presbyterian Church, the 
oldest church in the community. 



VV Ji( ^' GREER is a member of one of the pio- 

\f/\ neer families of Cecil township, and a son 

~( I of Robert Greer, who was born in 1804, in 

I -* County Down, Ireland, and in 1820 came 

with his parents to Chartiers township, 

Washington Co., Penn., locating on the Allison 

farm. He was soon afterward married to Nancy 

Rice, and in 1828 began wedded life on the old 

homestead in Cecil township, this county, where 

five children were born to their union, namely: 

Adam R., living in Hancock county, Ohio; Mary 

Isabelle, wife of H. Rial, of Hancock county, Ohio; 



1006 



WA s/nXO Toy ( ■() ( XTY 



M. T., whose name opens this sketch; Robert, who 
enlisted in 1.861, in the Eighty-fifth Regiment, P. 
V. I., for three years or during the war, and died 
in 1862 at the White House Hospital, Richmond, 
Ya.; and Sarah Ann, living with her brother, M. T. 
The father died in February, 1887, having been 
preceded by the mother in 1S67. Both parents 
were members of the Presbyterian Church at 
Centre. 

M. T. Greer was born January 12, 1835, on the 
farm in Cecil township which is yet his home, and 
received his education in the district schools of the 
neighborhood. The homestead contains 132 acres 
of good land, which is kept in the highest state of 
cultivation by the present owner, who also gives 
considerable attention to raising a tine grade of 
cattle. He has watched the development of the 
county, having seen all of the railroads enter it, 
and Greer's Station is located on his farm. He has 
taken an active interest in politics, voting with the 
Democratic party, and has filled various offices of 
trust in the township. He is a member of the 
Presbyterian Church at Centre. 



T/AMES J. HUNTER, a representative farmer 

of East Finley township, is a son of James 

rj] Hunter, who was born about the year 1776, 

s — - of Irish parents in eastern Pennsylvania, and 

spent his early life in that State. 

< >n June 21, 1810, he was there married to Elea- 
nor Garrett, and immediately thereafter they moved 
to Buffalo township, this county. To this union 
were born the following named children: Margaret 
(deceased), born April 12, 181 1 ; Susan (deceased), 
born October 24, 1814; Elizabeth, born April 13, 
1818, now living in East Finley township, this 
county, the widow of Robert Marshall; James J.; 
and William, residing in West Finley township. 
Mrs. Hunter died in 1824, and March 29,1827, Mr. 
Hunter was united in marriage with Sarah Clark, 
of Buffalo township, this county, and they had two 
children: John Clark (deceased), born December 
24, 1827, and Sarah Ann (deceased), born October 
6, L830. The mother of these children died in 
I 8 16, and November 2, 1848, Mr. Hunter was united 
in marriage with Jane Welsh, who died in L888. 
Mr. Hunter followed farming and distilling until 
1839, when he came to East Finley township, set- 
tling on the farm now owned by his son, James J. 
Hunter, and which is situated about a mile east of 
I rood Intent, near the western line of East Fiidey 
township. He passed the remainder of his life on 
this farm, and died in the year L858. He was a 
member of the U. P. Church at Wheeling, and in 
politics he was a Whig. 

James J. Hunter was born October 26, 1820, in 
Buffalo township, Washington Co., Penn.; and was 
in early life inducted into the mysteries of agricult- 



ure by his parents. He came with the family to 
East Finley township, and in 1843 began life for 
himself by doing farm work for other people, and 
cropping on his father's place. On October l ( .i, 
L84&, he was united in marriage with .lane Ilutch- 
isson, who was born in 1S25, daughter of Thomas 
Hutchisson, of East Finley township, and by this 
union there are three children: .Joseph S., born 
June 24, 1840, now a farmer living in Franklin 
township, this county; Thomas II., born June 14, 
IMS, m farmer living in East Finley township, this 
county; and James C, born June 30, 1ST)2, residing 
in Brilliant, Jefferson Co., Ohio. Mrs. Hunter died 
in 185;', and on November 13, 1860, Mr. Hunter 
was married to Elizabeth Marshall, who was born 
in 1822, a daughter of Gilbert Marshall, of East 
Finley township, a hardy pioneer, who lived to be 
nearly one hundred years of age. James J. and 
Elizabeth (Marshall) Hunter have had the following 
children: Mary E., born March 27, 1862, married 
November 5, 1891, to Alfred Sprowls; Jane A., 
born September 12, 1863, still living with her par- 
ents; and Florence M., born July 27, 1865, also at 
home. After his first marriage (in 1845) Mr. 
Hunter resided for some time in West Finley town- 
ship, this county, then came to East Finley town- 
ship, and in a short time returned to his former 
home, but finally, in 1861, moved back to East 
Finley township where he has since remained. Mr. 
Hunter, as did his father before him, has made a 
financial and social success of his life by practicing 
the valuable virtues of industry, perseverance and 
thrift. In politics he is a worker in the ranks of 
the Republican party. In religious connection he 
and his wife are members of the United Presby- 
terian Church at Dog Wood Grove, East Finley 
township^ 



JOSEPH WILSON. To the energetic, patri- 
otic, warm-hearted and enthusiastic sons of 
the Emerald Isle America owes a lasting debt 
of gratitude. The blood of Erin's sons has 
ever freely Mowed in behalf of American liberties 
and for the American people. From the days of 
the Revolution, when Patrick Henry voiced the 
anguished cry of a maddened nation in burning 
words of eloquence, to the present time, as gold- 
crowned Monopoly would crush the toiling millions 
beneath her feet, laugh to scorn their cries for 
mercy — through all these years has rung that cry 
which is echoed in the heart of every true Irishmay 
— "Give me liberty or give me death;" and many 
have accepted death, that their adopted and be- 
loved Country might enjoy the blessings of liberty. 
( )f this noble race the family of which we write are 
worthy representatives. Thomas Wilson was born 
and reared in County Antrim, Ireland, and in early 
life made choice of a helpmeet in the person of 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



L009 



Mary Ellis, whose children were as follows: Joseph, 
Margaret (wife of William Chapman), Nancy (Mrs. 
Archie Wilney), Matthew, Thomas, Eliza (wife of 
Patrick Rush) and Robert. The father was a 
member of the Seceder Church. He followed 
farming, and both parents died in their native 
land. 

Joseph Wilson was born February 28, 1827, in 
County Antrim, Ireland, and was there married to 
Nancy Kerr. In 1858 the children of the Wilson 
family came to America; Joseph came a year ahead 
of wife and two sons: John and Joseph E., aged two 
and four years respectively. They had a stormy 
voyage of nine weeks' duration, but finally landing 
in Baltimore, Md., proceeded to Washington county, 
locating in Canonsburg, where Joseph Wilson fol- 
lowed the boating and coal business until 1862. 
He then enlisted in Company G, One Hundred and 
Fortieth P. V. I., with the army of the Potomac. 
He was wounded in the foot by a minie ball, at 
Cold Harbor, and after returning home he engaged 
in business. In 1871 he opened the grocery which 
he is now conducting. In politics he is a Republi- 
can, and served as burgess of Canonsburg one year 
and assistant burgess several years. He is a mem- 
ber and liberal supporter of the U. P. Church. Of 
the children born to Mr. and Mrs. Wilson the fol- 
lowing is a brief record: John, born in County 
Antrim, Ireland, was reared and educated in Canons- 
burg, this county; was married to Mary, daughter 
of William Skyls, and she has borne him eight 
children. John Wilson is the manager of the < lak 
Spring cemetery. Joseph E., born in Ireland and 
reared in Canonsburg, Penn., in early life was mar- 
ried to Vianna Ferguson; is engaged in the coal 
business. Thomas is living at home. David fol- 
lows teaming for a livelihood; in early life he was 
united in marriage with Mary Jones. Matthew is 
an enterprising and prosperous grocer of Canons- 
burg; selected a life companion in the person of 
Miss Jennie Giffin. George was married to Amanda 
Gutherie, and they are now residing in the State of 
Ohio, where he carries on a profitable business. 
Robert, who married Martha Thompson, is a huck- 
ster. Mary E. was educated at the common schools 
of Canonsburg, at the academy, and also attending 
the normal school at California, this county; she is 
now teaching in the schools of Canonsburg. The 
family are members of the U. P. Church, and the 
sons are all stanch Republicans. 



AMUEL A. LACOCK, M. D., of Canons- 
burg, is a physician recognized by the pro- 
fession and the public as a man of eminent 
ability, skill and enterprise, having hewed 
his own way to the prominent position he now 
occupies. He is a representative of one of the 
oldest families of Washington county, one Samuel 



Lacock — whose children were Ira, John R. and 
Samuel — -being the first to settle here. Ira Lacock 
was born in this county, and in early manhood was 
married to Annie Bane, who bore him children as 
follows: William (living in Washington county), 
Isaac (a resident of Missouri), Samuel (deceased), 
John V. (of whom a sketch follows), Elizabeth 
(wife of William Mounts) and Ira J. (an attorney 
of Hiawatha, Kans. ). The father died in January, 
1877, at the age of seventy-three years, the mother 
having preceded him to the grave in 1871, in her 
seventy-first year. 

John V. Lacock was also born in Washington 
county, where he was educated and grew to man- 
hood. He selected a life companion in the person 
of Sarah J., daughter of William and Mary ^Coul- 
son) McClenathan, of Am well township, this county, 
who were connected with the Death family, of 
England. James Death, Sr., emigrated from En- 
gland about 1680, with his wife Sophia. Their 
children were Edward, James, William, Charity 
and George Death. Charity Death married Samuel 
Coulson. Their children were Mary, William, John, 
Sarah, James, Rachael, Thomas and Anna. Mary 
Coulson married William McClenathan. Their 
children were Isabella, Samuel, William, John, 
James, Blair, Allen, Thomas, George S., Mary and 
Sarah Jane. The last named became the wife of 
John V. Lacock. To the union of John V. and 
Sarah J. Lacock five sons were born, viz.: George 
S. (living in Kansas), Samuel A. (whose name 
opens this sketch), William R. (living in Amwell 
township), Ira L. (a resident of Franklin town- 
ship), and John Marion (deceased in infancy). The 
father is yet living on a farm in Franklin township, 
owned by his son, Samuel A. The mother died 
December 14, 1889, aged sixty-four years. 

Dr. Samuel A. Lacock was born December 23, 
1849, in Franklin township, Washington Co., Penn., 
and passed his youth on the home farm, attending 
during the winter months the public schools of the 
neighborhood. His later education was received 
at Washington and Jefferson College, and in 1870 
he entered Bethany College, W. Va., graduating 
therefrom in June, 1873. After his studies were 
finished, he taught school for two years, then read 
medicine at Washington. In 1875 he took a medi- 
cal course at Ann Arbor, Mich., and in 1876 entered 
Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, where he 
graduated in March, 1877. In July of the same 
year Dr. Lacock commenced the practice of his 
profession at McConnell's Mill, in Chartiera town- 
ship, remaining there three years. In April, 1883, 
he came to Canonsburg, where he has since resided. 
In early life the Doctor was married to Flora 
Slusher, who died leaving one child, Hallie M. In 
1878 he was united in marriage with Miss Olive 
Kate, daughter of Hugh C. De France, of Chartiers 
township, who has borne him two daughters— Elva 



11)1(1 



WASHING TON CO L'XTY. 



E. and Ida M. — and one son — Joseph C. Dr. La- 
cock has a large practice. In politics he is an active 
worker in the Democratic party, having served his 
party in many ways. During the nine years he 
has been a resident of Canonsburg he has taken an 
active part in extending the borough limits and 
generally improving the town, and is at present 
greatly interested in the prosecution of the estab- 
lishment of water-works, electric light, and sewer- 
age of the town. He has served one term as city 
burgess, nearly eight years as school director, and 
is now a director in the Citizens' Bank. 




ENRY CONRAD, proprietor of the only tin 
shop in Burgettstown, was born November 
5, 1838, in Prussia, and is a son of Charles 
Conrad, whose father was born and reared 
in that country, being there married to a 
Miss Schules. Grandfather Conrad was a merchant 
and farmer, and both he and his wife died in 
Prussia. 

Charles Conrad was born in 1798, in Prussia. 
In early manhood he married Catherine Conrad, a 
member of another family of the same name, and 
their children were Catharina, Julia, Elizabeth, 
Caroline, Charles, Henry, Jacob and Daniel. In 
184(5 he and his family embarked in a sailing ves- 
sel for America, landing at New York after a 
heavy storm, which lasted a day and a night, the 
crew and passengers thinking every moment would 
be their last. After arriving in New York, the 
family proceeded westward to Lock No. 17, Tus- 
carawas Co., Ohio, where Mr. Conrad purchased a 
farm, on which he remained twenty years. He 
then moved to Wabash county, Ind., and there 
passed the remainder of his life. He was an ardent 
member of the Evangelical Church, and contrib- 
uted liberally to its support; in politics he was a 
Democrat. He followed agricultural pursuits. 

Henry Conrad, a son of Charles and Catherine 
Conrad, lived with his parents until sixteen years 
of age, when he began learning the trade of tin- 
ner with one John Luchenbough, of Canal Dover, 
( )hio, serving an apprenticeship of three and a half 
years. He then followed his trade at Zoar, same 
State, afterward moving to Pittsburgh, Penn., and 
few years later to New York, where he remained 
one year. He then returned to Pittsburgh, and in 
1872 opened a tin shop in Burgettstown, this 
county, where he has since continued. On July 
12, 1866, he was united in marriage with Margaret, 
daughter of Andrew I'lrich, a native of Germany, 
and two children have been born to their union: 
George II. and Margaret. In 1876 Mr. Conrad 
started a small greenhouse, which has increased to 
his present magnificent collection of beautiful and 
varied vegetation, including 1 both flowers and vege- 
tables, which are kept in a large and elegant con- 



servatory. Mr. Conrad has made his own way to 
the upper round of the ladder of success. In poli- 
tics he is a Republican, and in religion has been a 
member of the Evangelical Church for years. 

George H. Conrad was born June 30, 1 8157, re- 
ceived his early education in the schools of Bur- 
gettstown, and at the age of fourteen years 
attended the Evangelical School at Pittsburgh, 
Penn. When sixteen years of age he entered his 
father's shop, where he has since remained. On 
January 21, 1892, he married Sadie K., daughter of 
William Jones, of Midway, Penn. Politically 
George H. Conrad is a Republican, and in religious 
faith he is a member of the Evangelical Church. 



w 



^ V. RIDDILE, M. D., is one of the promi- 
nent physicians of Burgettstown. His 
early ancestors were natives of Rox- 
burghshire, Scotland, one of whom emi- 
grated to America at an early day, and reared a 
family of children in this country. John Riddile 
(the grandfather of W. V.) was born and grew to 
manhood in America, and married here. He came 
to Washington county, Penn., in an early day, 
purchasing a tract of land in Smith township, where 
he remained until his death. He was a member of 
the Presbyterian Church of Candor. In politics 
he affiliated with the Democratic party, serving 
several years as justice, in which position he gave 
satisfaction to all. He was the father of six chil- 
dren, namely: Abraham, Joseph, John, Catherine, 
.lames and Ann. 

Samuel Riddile, father of Dr. Riddile, was born 
on the farm in Smith township, receiving his early 
education in the log schoolhouse of the period, and 
remaining at home during his boyhood. In early 
life he was united in marriage with Margaret, 
daughter of Joseph Scott, and the young people 
settled on a farm in Smith township, this county, 
where the following children were born: John, 
Mary (wife of Robert McFarland), J. S. (de- 
ceased), S. P., James (living in California), David 
(deceased), Robert (deceased), Sarah (Mrs. James 
Hayes), Catherine (wife of William Proudlit ), 
Abraham (deceased) and W. V. (our subject). 
Mr. Riddile followed building and farming. In 
politics he was a Democrat. He was a member of 
the Presbyterian Church at ( 'andor, afterward 
uniting with the one at Burgettstown. 

W. V. Riddile, M. D., was born October (5, 1839, 
in Smith township, being educated at the common 
schools and Burgettstown Academy. In 18(11 he 
entered the office of Dr. T. W. Bradley, remaining 
with him three years, during which time he entered 
the University of Michigan in 1863, graduating in 
18(51. He then began to practice at Noblestown, 
Allegheny county, afterward moving to Candor, 
living there five years, when he passed one year in 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



1011 



Pittsburgh,' and finally settled in Burgettstown, 
where he has since resided. He was united in mar- 
riage with Rosa, daughter of Hon. Finley Patterson, 
of Cross Creek township, twenty-three years ago. 
She died in 1875 leaving three children: Thomas 
(deceased), Fred C. and Harry B. For his second 
wife Dr. Riddile was married to Emma, daughter 
of Charles W. Bingham, by which union there is 
one daughter, Mamie J. Dr. Riddile has taken an 
active interest in educational matters, and in poli- 
tics is a Democrat. He is an elder in the Presby- 
terian Church. 




WILLIAM C. CONDIT. The pioneer an- 
cestors of this family date back to L678, 
when the name of John Condit was first 
heard. He located in the town of New- 
ark, Essex Co., N. J., in 1(389, and in 1691 was 
married to a widow, Mrs. Catherine Barton, a niece 
of Sir Isaac Newton, whose estate she inherited. 
Mr. Condit succeeded Sir Isaac as Master and 
Warden of the English Mint. His wife died May 
27, 1737, and on January 20, 1739, Mr. Condit 
passed away, leaving the estate to his son Peter, 
whose eldest son, Samuel, inherited it in turn. In 
188") there were 1023 descendants of Samuel Con- 
dit, first grandson of John, living in the United 
States. Peter, the fifth grandson of John (the 
ancestor, who resided in Morristown, N. .).), was 
the individual to whom the Condit family in An- 
well township trace their genealogy. Philip Con- 
dit was born in Newark, N. J., in April, 1709, and 
passed his life near Morristown, same State, where 
he died December 3, 1801, aged ninety-two years. 
He was a member of the Presbyterian Church. 

Jabez Condit, son of Philip, was born February 
8, 1739, and was married to Phube .Smith, of 
Morristown, N. J. He passed his life on his 
father's farm, and the old home is filled with 
sacred mementoes of these ancestors of the past 
century. He died November 22, 180-1, followed 
by his wife March 6, 1813. Jonas Condit, son of 
Jabez and Phoebe (Smith) Condit, was born 
January 14, 17(39, and came to Washington county 
when about twenty-five years of age. His second 
wife was Hannah, daughter of Rev. Thaddeus 
Dodd, of Pennsylvania. Mr. Condit was a man of 
fine physique and strong moral character. He 
was a member of the Presbyterian Church at 
Upper and Lower Ten-Mile, and in 1805 was 
elected an elder. He and his family assisted very 
materially with the sacred music, and members 
of their family have led the choir exclusively 
since 1843. Mr. Condit was a justice of the peace 
many years by appointment of the Governor of 
Pennsylvania. 

Daniel Condit, son of Jonas and Hannah Condit, 
was born December 10, 1813, in Amwell township, 



and was educated in the commom schools. On 
February 2, 1837, he was married to Priscilla 
Carter, who died October 20, 1874. On Novem- 
ber 24, 1875, he wedded Amanda Chitter, and she 
died January 1, 1878. On April 14, 1880, he 
selected his third wife in the person of Mary John- 
son. Mr. Condit's children were William O, born 
October 6, 1830; Mrs. Henry Horan, born October 
14, 1842, and Mrs. Ruth A. Brownlee, born April 
12, 1850. Mr. Condit was for many years a useful 
and zealous member of the Presbyterian Church, 
and was ordained an elder September 12, 1858. 
He was superintendent of the Sunday-school, and 
leader of the choir for twenty years, the latter 
position being now occupied by his son. He was 
very fond of Scripture and historical reading. 
Politically he was first a Whig and then a Repub- 
lican, serving as school director and treasurer of 
the township for many years. 

William C. Condit, son of Daniel and Priscilla, 
was born in Amity, Washington county, and when 
six months old was brought by his parents to 
Lindley's Mills, where he remained for two years, 
when his parents again moved to the place adj. lin- 
ing the one which he now owns and occupies. 
In 1859 he was married to Mary J. Strouse, grand- 
daughter of Rev. Thaddeus Dodd, and they have 
had' four children: Silas, born November 8, 1860; 
Jennie McAfee, born December 81, 1805; Anna 
McAfee, born July 28, 1871, and Lottie M., born 
May 31, 1878, died January 28, 1881. Mr. Condit 
has always been a great reader, and like his father 
is an earnest student of Scripture and history. He 
has a fertile farm of 100 acres. In politics he has 
always been an active worker in the ranks of the 
Republican party, having held several township 
offices. In August, 1802, he enlisted in the Ring- 
gold Cavalry Battalion for three years. On June 
6, 1864, he was shot through the right lung, receiv- 
ing injuries from which he yet suffers. He and 
wife have been members of the Presbyterian 
Church for thirty-four years, while their children 
have been members for seventeen years. 




RCHIBALD B. DARRAGH. Robert Burns 
expressed the universal desire of every 
earnest man and woman, when, in his inimi- 
table style, he penned the lines now quoted 
the world around: 

Oh, wad some Power the giftie gie us, 
To see oursels as ithers see us. 
It wad frae mouy a blunder free us, 
An foolish notion. 

Had the Scottish bard written no other word, 
that verse would have immortalized his name. 
Ample proof of this is given in the insatiable crav- 
ino- of the world for biographical literature. The 
be^t and most satisfactory way to "see oursels 



1012 



WASIlTMtTOy (Of \ TV. 



as ithers see us," is in the study of the character- 
istics of humanity as exemplified in our fellow 
mortals. This favorite study is less wounding to 
our personal vanity than a rigid self-examination 
would probably be, and answers the same purpose. 
Therefore are we interested in the lives of those 
around us, especially in those who have made a 
signal success, and, overcoming every obstacle, 
stand to-day in honored places. John I >arragh 
was born in Ireland, but emigrating to America at 
an early day became a prosperous farmer. Of 
his large family, Daniel was the second child in 
order of birth. 

Daniel 1 )arragh was born in 1 767, in Ireland, 
and in 1771 came with his parents and brother, 
John, to America. They located in Nottingham 
township, Washington Co., Penn., on the old home 
farm yet occupied by their descendants, where 
Neal and Archibald, the younger brothers, were 
born. His sisters were Isabella, Margaret, Eliza- 
beth, Jane and Mary. Daniel passed his youth on 
the home place, and in 1815 was married to Sarah 
Sheldon, a native of Brownsville, Fayette (_'o., 
Penn. Three children were born to their union: 
John C, moved to California in 1849, thence to 
Nevada, where he died; Mary, wife of Harris 
Thusbar, died in 1861, at Pontiac, Mich.; and 
Archibald 15., born September 1, 1826. The father 
always followed farming, serving his township in 
almost every office. He took the census of Wash- 
ington county twice, riding on horseback to per- 
form that duty. He died in 1859, followed by Mrs. 
Darragh in 1865. 

Archibald 13. Darragh was born on the old 
place in Nottingham township, Washington Co., 
l'enn., there securing his early education. In 
January, 1 85 1 , he selected as a life companion 
Miss Amy Gamble, who died in 1853. For his 
second wife he married Sarah A., daughter of 
Alexander Gault, a representative citi/.en of 
Nottingham township. They have had nine chil- 
dren, four of whom are yet living, viz.: Amy Jane, 
Daniel C, Alexander W. and Annie E. When the 
war opened in 1861, the father left his widowed 
mother, and his wife and children, to fight for the 
honor of the Stars and Stripes. He enlisted in the 
First Pennsylvania Cavalry as a private, taking 
part in the battle of the Wilderness, and the other 
engagements of the army of the Potomac. He 
retured home in 1864, having been promoted to 
the rank of orderly sergeant, and laying aside the 
sword once more resumed the peaceful life of a 
farmer, in which he has since been engaged. He 
owns 192 acres of well-cultivated land, including 
a large coal mine, which he sold to the Nottingham 
Coal Co. at $55 per acre. He has been county 
auditor for three years and served in different 
capacities. Mr. Darragh now has a deed in his 
possession which is over 10b' years old. 



Of the pioneers of this family in America, John 
moved to Pittsburgh, and was elected the second 
mayor of the young city; Archibald entered the 
United States army, and was commissioned cap- 
tain; Isabella married Daniel Liggett, and lived to 
be eighty-six years old; Margaret married I >r. 
Baird, and lived to be eighty-seven years old, and 
Jane, who married Joseph Scott, and died in her 
eighty-sixth year. Of the Sheldon family of live 
sisters and four brothers, Mrs. Charlotte Graff is 
now living in the eighty-fourth year of her age. 



JfOHN G. MARTIN was born March 17, L824, 
in Wales, and passed his early childhood amid 
] the wild scenes of that picturesque land. His 
father, William Martin, was born in Scotland, 
and was married to Margaret Creighton, a highland 
lassie. The young couple resided in Wales for 
some time after their marriage, and in 1832 sailed 
to America, first locating near Allegheny City, Al- 
legheny Co., Penn., where he followed gardening. 
About I860 they moved to Alliance, Ohio, where 
he died in 1870, followed by his wife in 1871. 
They were the parents of the following named 
children: John G.; William, living in Alliance, 
( )hio; Isabelle, wife of Joseph Kirkpatrick, a miner, 
of Upper Michigan; Mrs. Marion Porter, living 
near Alliance, ( >hio, and Maggie, widow of John 
Atwell, of Mount Union, Ohio. 

John G. Martin came with his parents to Alle- 
gheny county, Penn., in 1832, and remained there 
until 1850, when he was married December 20 of 
that year to Charlotte 1). Allen, a native of Wash- 
ington county, Penn., and daughter of Abiah 
Allen. The grandparents of Abiah Allen were 
Joseph and Deborah (Hill) Allen. Joseph Allen 
was a native of England, and member of the 
(Quaker Society, lie came to America about the 
year 1770, and in 1771 took out a patent for a 
large tract of land on the Monongahela river, in 
Washington county, Penn. Ten years later he 
secured 354 additional acres, called "Allen's De- 
light." This farm adjoined his lirst purchase, and 
the two tracts contained over 880 acres of land, 
which he divided among his children in 1799, keep- 
ing one portion for himself and wife. In this pio- 
neer home, surrounded by the beasts of the forest 
and wild Indians, were born the following children: 
Eli, John, Samuel, William, Joshua, Emma ( .Mrs. 
Thomas Stockdale), I (eborah ( Mrs. Wenders |, and 
Benjamin. The latter son received no land, but 
was dependent upon the others for his support. 
The father died at an advanced ago in 1839. 
.Joshua, son of Joseph and Deborah (Hill) Allen, 
was born on the home farm in Allen township, 
Washington county, and when a young man was 
married to Elizabeth McCrory. They passed their 
lives on the old place. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



1013 



Abiah Allen, son of Joshua and Elizabeth (Mc- 
Crory) Allen, was born in 1790, in Allen township, 
Washington county, where he grew to manhood. 
In 1822 he was married to .Mary Hough, who was 
born in 1799, in Fayette county, Penn., where the 
wedding ceremony took place. They settled in 
Allen township, Washington county, and five 
children were born to them, namely: Maria Ellen, 
wife of .John White; J)avid 13. H., who died in 
Westmoreland county, Penn., in 1880; Charlotte 
D. (Mrs. Martin), Barbara Ann (widow of Wilson 
Jack man ), in Galva, 111., and Alexander Bonaparte, 
of Cleveland, ( )hio. The parents always resided on 
the home place. In 1N47 the father was killed by 
falling from a tree; his widow died in 1887. 

John G. and Charlotte 1). (Allen) Martin moved 
to their present home in Allen township, in the 
spring of 1850. The place contains 120 acres of 
fertile land where he is engaged in gardening and 
general agriculture. He is actively interested in 
politics, voting with the Republican party, and has 
served for years as a member of the school board. 
He and his wife are members of the Disciple 
Church at Fayette City. Their children have been 
born as follows: Maggie, wife of George Maxwell, 
of Allen township; William D.; Mary Belle, wife 
of Herman McFall, living on the home place, and 
Eliza Jane, deceased wife of George Maxwell. 




P. VANCE. Among the leading business 
men of Burgettstown, this enterprising 
merchant takes a prominent position. I lis 
family are numbered with the earliest 
pioneers of Washington county. Maj. William 
Vance, born in Scotland in 171S, died in Pennsyl- 
vania in 1788, and was buried in Cross Creek ceme- 
tery. Joseph Vance, the son of Maj. Vance, was 
born about the middle of the eighteenth century in 
Scotland, but emigrated in early manhood. He 
first settled in Winchester, Va., and in 1774 came 
to Pennsylvania. He located in Cross Creek town- 
ship, Washington county, while the Indians were 
still numerous, and soon achieved a wide-spread 
reputation as an Indian fighter, many of the dusky 
warriors having fallen by his unerring rifle. Few, 
if any, were more prominently identified with the 
early settlement of the western portion of Wash- 
ington county, than was Joseph Vance. He mar- 
ried and passed the remainder of his life in the 
wilderness, where his first log cabin was erected. 
The uncultivated land has now become a fertile 
farm. He and his wife were called to their rest at 
an advanced age, leaving their children to finish 
the work so nobly begun. 

Among these children was a son, William, born 
in the year 1776, and reared in Washington county 
amid the usual trials and dangers of pioneer life. 
His education was necessarily limited, as schools 



were few, and at best afforded but meager oppor- 
tunities. He was first married to Rachel Patter- 
son, a resident of Cross Creek township, who bore 
him six children. She died, and a few years after- 
ward he 'selected a second wife, Hannah Patterson, 
a member of an old family of Cross Creek town- 
ship. To this union, also, there were born six chil- 
dren. Mr. Vance always lived in Cross ('reek 
township, and was one of the representative men of 
the day. He died in the year 1856. He was a 
Whig in politics, and in religion a member of the 
Presbyterian Church. Vance's Fort was located 
on the home tract, having been used as a church, 
the first sermon preached in the .vicinity being 
given in that building. 

Allison Vance, son of William Vance, was born 
in 1808, on the home farm, and was educated in 
the neighboring schools. He was married to Mar- 
garet, daughter of John Campbell, of Smith town- 
ship, this county, and settled on a farm adjoining 
the old place, where the following named children 
were born and reared: John (deceased), W. P. 
(subject of this sketch), Rachel (deceased), David 
(deceased), Robert C, James L. and Leander. In 
politics, Allison Vance was an active worker in the 
Whig party, and in religion a member in and liberal 
supporter of the Cross Creek Presbyterian Church. 
After a successful life he died in 1890, his wife 
having crossed the dark river three months pre- 
viously. The remains of both now rest in Cross 
Creek cemetery. 

W. P. Vance was born September 1, 1842, in 
Cross Creek township, this county, remaining at 
home until twenty years of age. He then went 
to Washington, Penn., and learned photography. 
After following that vocation a few years, his 
health failing, he sold out, and coming to Burgetts- 
town, this county, opened a hardware store, which 
he has since conducted. On July 4, 1865, W. P. 
Vance was united in marriage with Alice M., daugh- 
ter of Andrew McFarland, of Cross Creek town- 
ship, this county, and their children are Annie M., 
Charles M. and Alice M. Mr. Vance is a public- 
spirited man and very successful in business, own- 
ing a fine stock of-hardware, and supplying a large 
amount of custom. In politics he is a Republican. 
He and his family are attendants of the Presby- 
terian Church. 



f^^j ILAS BALDWIN. Among the pioneer 
families of Franklin township, the name of 
Baldwin has ever been a synonym for enter- 
prise and industry. The early home of 
that family was in the State of New Jersey, where 
they were engaged for many years in agriculture. 
Jonathan Baldwin first came, to Washington 
county, Penn., with his family, and settling in 
Morris township, made a new home in the un- 



1014 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



broken wilderness. His three sons, William, 
Francis and Jonathan, assisted their father, toiling 
early and late to secure a comfortable home. In a 
few years the father and mother were laid to rest 
near the scene of their labors, and the soils began 
life for themselves. After the death of the par- 
ents, Francis Baldwin, in 181)3, married Rebecca, 
daughter of Thomas Hill, a resident of East Finley 
township, and the following children were born to 
them: Stephen, Sarah, Thomas, Jonathan, John, 
Phoebe, Francis, Sealy, James, Amos, Silas and 
Cephas. Mr. Baldwin was one of the organizers 
and a liberal supporter of the Cumberland Presby- 
terian Church at Van Buren. In politics he was a 
member of the Whig party. Thomas Hill was in 
the war of the Revolution, and when it was over he 
settled in Fast Finley township and married Je- 
mima Enloe. He had several thrilling adventures 
with the Indians and many narrow escapes. Three 
children were born to them: James, Isem, and Re- 
becca, who married Francis Baldwin. 

Silas, son of Francis and Rebecca Baldwin, was 
born December 4, 1827, in Morris township, and 
passed his boyhood on the farm. In early man- 
hood he was married to Sarah (daughter of Thomas 
and Margaret Sargeant), who bore him children as 
follows: John T., Mary J., Sarah M., Anna V., 
William E., Elizabeth E., Ida F. and Ira F. 
Mr. Baldwin still manages the farm with 
the aid of his children, and his property is 
the result of his own economy and industry. 
Politically he was a Whig, but since the Re- 
publican party was organized, has been an active 
worker for the principles embodied in that plat- 
form. William E. Baldwin was married to Mary 
.1., daughter of John B. Weir, and they have four 
children: Morris P., Leo D., Julia Audrey, and an 
unnamed infant. This family is second to none in 
industry and enterprise, and enjoy the esteem of 
the community in which they reside. John T. 
Baldwin married Alice Mires, to whom one daugh- 
ter, Eva Jane Baldwin, was born. 



THOMAS MOORE BIGGER. The sons of 
Erin are and ever have been among the 
leaders of all enterprises in which bravery, 
energy and enthusiasm are the requisite in- 
*/ gredients No dangers appall, no obstacles 
conquer, no failures overcome the dauntless spirit 
of a true Irishman. About the middle of the last 
century Thomas Bigger, a native of County Antrim, 
Ireland, was there married to Elizabeth Moore, who 
was born in the same county. The young couple 
decided that their wedding trip should be an ocean 
voyage, accordingly they embarked for the New 
World not many days after their marriage rites 
were over. After landing in America, they came 
to Pennsylvania and first located on a piece of 



land near Hickory, this county, which belonged to 
George Washington, but was then in court. His 
rights, however, were soon established, after which 
Mr. and Mrs. Bigger settled on a farm in Robin- 
son township, which is yet in the family name, 
being now the property of Matthew Bigger. The 
Indians had not then entirely abandoned the old 
hunting grounds, and often compelled the advent- 
urous pioneers to flee for life to Fort McDonald, 
but as new settlers entered, and the forests were 
cleared away, the red men roved further west, 
finally leaving the pale faces, in undisturbed pos- 
session of their homes. Eleven children were born 
to Thomas and Elizabeth (Moore) Bigger, as fol- 
lows: Matthew, Jane, John, James, Thomas, Ann, 
James, Samuel, Martha, Andrew and Elizabeth. 

Andrew Bigger, the youngest son of Thomas, 
was born April 1, 1793, and from boyhood was 
reared to farm duties, continuing to follow farming 
all his life. In early life he was married to Miss 
Sarah Campbell, who was born January S, 1796, in 
eastern Pennsylvania, and after their marriage set- 
tled on the farm of 500 acres, now owned by their 
son, Thomas M. Game was yet abundant in those 
days, deer, wild turkeys and panther being plenti- 
ful. Mr. Bigger was a stanch adherent of the 
Whigs until the Free-Soil party was organized, 
when he became a Democrat, and in religious faith 
was an organizer of the Robinson U. P. Church. 
Mr. and Mrs. Bigger were the parents of the fol- 
lowing children: Mary A., Eliza, Jane, Martha, 
Rachel and Thomas Moore. 

Thomas Moore Bigger was born June 1, 1836, 
in the old home which is yet standing across the 
road from his present residence. He assisted with 
the general duties of the home farm during his 
boyhood, and on March Id, 1859, entered matri- 
monial life in company with Margaret, daughter 
of the late Andrew Donaldson, of Robinson town- 
ship, this county. The children of this couple are 
Andrew R., born August 31, I860; James 1)., born 
November 13, 1864; Sarah E., born January 5, 
L868; Mary J., born April 30,1870; and Martha 
M., born March 12, 1873, all of whom have enjoyed 
the advantages of a college education. Thomas 
Moore Bigger yet owns the old homestead, which 
is kept in a tine state of cultivation and yields him 
a good incom6. Politically he has always been a 
stanch Democrat, having served his township and 
party by filling various offices of honor and trust. 
He is an earnest member and hearty supporter of 
the Robinson U. P. Church. 



AVID B. WINTER, an old and highly re- 
spected citizen of Donegal township, is a 
son of David, whose father, Christopher 
Winter, was born in Rhine 1'falz, Ger- 
many. Christopher Winter emigrated from his 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



1015 



native land at an early clay, and coming to Amer- 
ica settled in Donegal township, Washington 
county, Penu., there erecting a log cabin, and be- 
gan to clear the forest from his land. He soon 
thereafter married Miss Catherine Schaeffer, a lady 
of German ancestry, whose parents lived near 
Washington borough, Penn. At this period the 
Indians were yet very troublesome, and made fre- 
quent raids — -murdering, plundering and burning 
as they swept on. At such times the pioneers fled 
to the blockhouses, leaving their property to the 
tender mercies of the savages. Mr. and Mrs. 
Winter lived to a good old age, dying on the farm 
where they had spent so many hours of toil and 
danger. They left a family of children, among 
whom was a son David. 

David Winter ( father of subject) was born on 
the pioneer farm in Donegal township, this county, 
and passed his boyhood days in the usual manner 
of frontier children; assisting in the farm work, 
and attending the subscription schools (which were 
then held in rude log cabins), during a few months 
of each year. He was united in marriage with 
Elizabeth, daughter of Perry McCoy, of Donegal 
township, Washington Co., Penn., and she bore 
him two children: David B. and Elizabeth Marga- 
ret (deceased wife of Alexander Wiath). After 
his marriage, 1 )avid Winter erected a house on 
the home farm, near the residence of his father, 
and became a successful farmer, lie was a popu- 
lar and enterprising citizen, and in politics a Dem- 
ocrat. After long and useful lives, he and his 
wife were laid to rest beside the home where their 
lives had been passed. 

David 13. Winter, the only son of the above 
couple, was born November 1, 1823, in the old 
house of his father, which is yet standing but a 
short distance from the large and commodious res- 
idence of the son. Mr. Winter worked for his 
father on the farm in his youth, and attended the 
common schools. In 1846 he was married to Mary 
Jane, daughter of William Bryson, of Donegal 
township, Washington county, and their children 
were as follows: Elizabeth (Mrs. Franklin Chap- 
man, of Donegal township), Hannah (deceased), 
David A. (a carpenter, living in Abiline, Tex. ), 
William (a farmer of Donegal township), Joseph 
(farming in Clark county, Ivans.), Nancy C. (Mrs. 
Joel Snodgrass, of Omaha, Neb.), Alice (Mrs. 
John Leinville, of Donegal township, this county), 
Mary (deceased), and John F. (deceased in in- 
fancy). The mother of these children died, and in 
1870 Mr. Winter was married to Sarah, daughter 
of William Milligan, of East Finley township, this 
county, and they have one son and one daughter: 
George K. and Udora, both living at home. Mr. 
Winter remained on his father's farm until some 
time after his marriage, when he erected a beauti- 
ful home on an adjoining piece of land, where he 



is now residing. He has always been a farmer 
and has been very successful. Politically, he was 
a Democrat until 1860, when he cast his ballot for 
Abraham Lincoln, since which time he has been an 
ardent supporter of the principles embodied in the 
Republican platform. He and his wife are both 
members of the Dutch Fork Baptist Church, to 
which Society he is a liberal contributor. 



f/OHN REED (deceased) was a son of David 
Reed, one of the earliest pioneers of Wash- 
t\ iiigtou county, Penn. David Reed, who was 
of Scotch-Irish descent, and a native of Lan- 
caster county, Penn., about the year 1777 came 
with a brother, John, to Washington county. They 
were offered settlement rights by the State of Vir- 
ginia on certain conditions which they accepted, 
and immediately erected their cabins on the lalid. 
In the fall they returned to Lancaster county, 
where John's wife was awaiting him, and David's 
betrothed then becoming his bride, the two couples 
moved to their new homes in the following sprincr. 
They lived there several years in undisturbed pos- 
session, but the land being really a portion of the 
George Washington survey, was afterward claimed 
by that famous personage, while the title was being 
investigated. 

After the ejectment suit was decided, the two 
brothers removed to Cecil township, where they 
purchased land. John died in 1816, leaving the 
following children: David (who settled on the 
home farm), John (sold ' his land, which is now 
owned by John Cabbage), Catherine (Mrs. Daniel 
Met lean, ( henango, Penn.), Ann (married to 
Robert Story), Jane (wife of Rev. David Emery, 
Darlington, Beaver Co., Penn.) and Mary (wife of 
Rev. Alexander Murray, Slippery Rock, Penn.) 
David Reed took a tomahawk claim of 400 acres, 
and passed his life in Cecil township, this county. 
He was a ruling elder in the Seceder Church at 
Canon sburg, of which his wife was also a member; 
she died many years ago, and he is now buried by 
her side. Their children were Alexander (married 
in Cecil township), David (farmer of Cecil town- 
ship), Mary (wife of George Murray, Chartiers 
township), John, James (formerly a jeweler of 
Washington, afterward living in Pittsburgh, Penn.) 
and Joseph (deceased in 1888, formerly lived on 
the old homestead in Cecil township). All of 
these children lived to an advanced age, but are 
now deceased. 

John Reed (the subject of this sketch) was born 
in 1787, in Mt. Pleasant township, Washington 
county, and was reared in Cecil township, there re- 
ceiving his early education. He afterward at- 
tended Jefferson College, at Canonsburg, under 
the preceptorship of Dr. McMillan, during the 
early history of that institution, graduating in 1806. 






1016 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



In 1821) John Reed was married to Jane May, a 
native of Cecil township, this county, and daughter 
of John and Phoebe (Ross) May, who were born in 
Lancaster county, Perm., and after their marriage 
settled in Cecil township, where they lived and 
died. 

After their marriage John and .lane (May) Reed 
made a permanent home in Mouut Pleasant town- 
ship, and the homestead is still in the possession of 
the family. John Reed was actively interested in 
politics, being a member of the Federalist 
party. He represented Washington county in the 
Slate Legislature from 1816 to 1822, also served 
many years as justice of the peace, and was county 
commissioner. He and his wife were formerly 
members of the Seceder Church, afterward uniting 
with the I . P. Church at Mount Pleasant in which 
he wa.s a ruling elder. His wife died many years 
ago, and he was laid to rest beside her in 1ST", 
weary with the weight of ninety-two years of life. 
The following children were born to the union of 
John and Jane (May) Reed: Pho-be, Mrs. A. J. 
Miller, of Hickory, this countv (deceased in 1X^ : '>); 
Margaret, living on the home farm; David, a 
farmer of Smith township, married to Martha Bor- 
land; John (deceased in 1861)); George, of whom 
further mention is made below; Jane, Mrs. John 
Wilson (living in this county); Samuel (men- 
tioned farther on), Mary and Elizabeth (living in 
this county }. 

Of the children of the above family, George 
Peed is living on the old homestead, following 
farming. He is not an active politician, but votes 
with the Republican party, and in religion is a 
member of the U. P. Church at Venice, this county. 
Samuel Reed was married in September, 1885, to 
Lizzie Harper, a native of ( 'ecil township, this 
county, and daughter of John Harper, who was 
born in Cecil township. John Harper was 
married to Ellen Jane Wallace, a native of Ireland 
who was brought to America when but three years 
of age. She is still living on the home farm in 
i !ecil township, but her husband died in March, 
L885. Samuel Heed and his wife are members of 
the U. P. Church at Venice, this county. Their 
home is in McDonald, Robinson township. 




; ^ILLIAM LIGGETT, the oldest living rep- 
resentative of what has ever been one of 
the most progressive and time-honored 
Eamilies of Washington county, was born 
April 28, 1821, in Independence township. The 
Liggett family are of Scotch descent, and trace 
their origin to two brothers who left their Scottish 
Ik niie and crossed the ocean to America. Landing 
at Baltimore, Md., they there remained but a short 
time, and then pushed westward, finally locating in 
Washington county, Petm. One of these brothers, 



Thomas Liggett was married to Parmelia Dempster, 
a resident of Washington county, and passed his 
life in Independence township. He was a man of 
stalwart frame, six feet tall, well-proportioned in 
every way, and possessing great courage and pow- 
ers of endurance. He was noted for his positive 
character and sturdy adherence to his word, which 
principles were implanted on the minds, and were 
evident in the lives of all his children, who were 
as follows: Joshua, (a farmer of Tuscarawas county, 
Ohio), Elizabeth (deceased in Iowa), James (de- 
ceased in Coshocton county, Ohio), Harriet (widow 
of Laban Headington), Robert (of whom mention 
is made in sketch of John S. Liggett), Mary Ann 
(deceased in Illinois), Sarah (widow of John Hemp- 
hill ), William (of whom mention is made below), 
Thomas (farming in Hopewell township), David A. 
(a merchant of Independence, Penn.),and Ander- 
son ( living in Hot Springs, Arkansas ). Mr. Liggett 
died January 29, 1861, Mrs. Liggett on September 
17, 1882. 

William Liggett was born on a part of the farm 
which he now owns. He lived at home during his 
boyhood, and received a limited education in the 
rate schools, much of his time being employed in 
farm work. On September 16, 1845, he was mar- 
ried to Nancy Jane ( who was born September 24, 
1827), daughter of John Mulholland. This union 
was blessed with the following family of children: 
Addison (a gardener in Emporia, Kansas), born 
October 5, 1846; Sarah J., born May 1, 1850, died 
June 9, 1875; Adeline, born March 8, lS.jlLdied May 
t, 1 SS 4 ; William W. ( farming in Cass county, Mo. I. 
born October 12, 1855; John T., born December 22, 
L857, died January 19, 1889, and Marion A. (a 
sketch of whom appears further on). The mother 
of these children died April 9, 1862, and on De- 
cember 22, 1863, Mr. Liggett was united in mar- 
riage with Elizabeth ('., who was born June 1(1, 
1834, a daughter of Samuel Co wen, of Mt. Pleas- 
ant township,and their children are as follows: Anna 
M. (Mrs. Geo. Worley, living in Silver Lake, 
Kosciusko ('o., Ind.), born December 6, 1864; 
Lewis S. (of whom a sketch follows ), born Sep- 
tember 16, 1866; Charlev, born March 8, 1869; 
Liny J., born June 27, 1871; and Irene G., born 
November 22, 1874. Soon after his marriage Mr. 
Liggett settled on the home place, where he yet 
resides. He carries on general fanning and stock- 
raising, making a specialty of the wool-growing 
business in which he has been very successful. Ho 
now owns a large amount of land, and is one of the 
substantial business men of the townbhip. Politi- 
cally, he has always been a Democrat, and both he 
and his wife are members of the Lower Buffalo 
Presbyterian Church, in which he is an elder. 

Samuel Cowen, father of Mrs. William Liggett, 
was born in Mt. Pleasant township, Washington 
Co., Penn., July 9, 1X07, a son of John and Martha 




\- : m$W^' i 







WAS// 1 AT,' TON CO UXTY. 



1019 



(Caldwell) Cowen, the former a native of York 
county, Penn., the latter of this county. Their 
children were William, James, John, Robert, Mar- 
tha, Anna, Jane (Mrs. James Lee) and Samuel. 
The father of this family came to Washington 
county at an early day, and purchased from the 
Government the place now owned and occupied by 
John McCalmont. It was all wild land when Mr. 
Cowen came to it, but was cleared and improved 
by the family. He was an Old-line Whig in his 
day, and a stanch Presbyterian, a member at one 
time of the Upper Buffalo Church, later of the one 
at Prospect, and was an elder in both. He died 
in August, 1883, his wife having passed away in 
1815. Samuel Cowen was educated in the sub- 
scription schools of the locality of his birthplace. 
He was a farmer and stock dealer all his life. In 
1837 he was married to Mary Dinsmore, and their 
children were John, Elizabeth (Mrs. William Lig- 
gett), William IL, Martha J., Mary B., Samuel 
Calvin, Nancy Ann (deceased ) and ( lhalmers. The 
father departed this life January 7, 1S70, and was 
buried at Fort Scott, Kansas; the mother was called 
to her long home October 13, 1888. Mr. Cowen 
was originally a Whig, and on the organization of 
the party became a Republican. In religious faith 
he was a member of and elder in the Presbyterian 
Church at Mt. Prospect. 

Marion A. Liggett was born March 31, 1860, 
on the home farm about two miles northwest of 
West Middletown. His early years were spent on 
the farm of his father, and he obtained a common- 
school education. On September 27, L882, he was 
married to Alice 15. 1 >enny, who was born January 
24, 1862, daughter of Walter and Mary (Welch) 
Denny, of Hopewell township. They have had four 
children, two of whom died in infancy. The two 
living daughters are twins: Margaret and Mary, 
born October 4, 1890. After his marriage Mr. Lig- 
gett located two and a half miles north of ( 'laysville, 
this county, where he is still farming. He recently 
erected a fine dwelling and barn, which afford an 
evidence of his prosperity, having also purchased 
additional land. In politics Mr. Liggett has always 
supported the Democratic party. In religious con- 
nection he and his wife are members of the Presby- 
terian Church at Claysville. 

Lewis S. Liggett received his early education 
in the common schools of Independence township, 
and afterward took a four years' course at Wash- 
ington and Jefferson College, Washington, Penn. 
After leaving school he returned home and began 
farming on a part of the old place. On June 18, 
1890, he was married to Hannah M. (who was born 
September 24, 1864), daughter of William Patter- 
son, of Cross Creek township, and they have two 
sons, William Leonard, and John Patterson. Since 
his marriage Mr. Liggett has resided in a handsome 
residence which he erected and furnished with all 

IS 



modern conveniences, making a beautiful home. 
He is an active and industrious young man, evi- 
dently inheriting the characteristic traits of energy 
and integrity, which have distinguished his family 
for generations. Both he and his wife are members 
of the U. P. Church, of West Middletown, Penn- 
sylvania. 



^ 



Mr ORGAN MARTIN, a native of West 
Bethlehem, and now a citizen of Amwell 
township, is a descendant of Zephaniah 
^ Martin, a blacksmith and a member of the 
Presbyterian Church, who came with his 
wife and family from Morris county, New Jersey, 
about the year 17811. His son, James Martin 
(grandfather of our subject), married Anna Mc- 
Myrtre, in New Jersey. Securing a patent for 200 
acres of land, they located in West Bethlehem 
township, this county. They had children born to 
them as follows: Thomas Martin (married Mary 
Bradbury in 1821, died September, 1851, aged 
sixty-five years, leaving three children: John M., 
residing in Greene county, Penn.; Thomas, who died 
in Missouri in February, L892, and David, resid- 
ing in Kansas); Joseph (of whom a sketch is 
given below); Zephaniah (a blacksmith, mar- 
ried Belle Hood, to whom were born John and 
Anna, all of whom are dead); Jane (married Joseph 
Dunn died, June 13, 1863, aged seventy-two); Jos- 
eph Dunn (died December 15, L865, aged seventy- 
seven, leaving seven children: Washing- 
ton (dead), James, Morgan L., Joseph, William 
(dead), Anna and John); Sarah (married David 
Bowman, who removed to Ashland county, Ohio, 
in IS'J'.t, where eight children were born, of whom 
no recent account is at hand); Elizabeth (married 
Stephen Jewell in 1822, and removed to Ohio in 
L828; they had nine children: James (deceased), 
Jonathan and Joseph ( reside in Ohio), John Mar- 
tin (deceased), Mary A. (deceased ), A. J. Jewell 
(residing in Iowa), Jacob (residing in Kansas), 
Patience (deceased), and Sarah J., deceased). 
Mrs. Elizabeth Jewell died in 1844. The mother 
of this large family died in 1800. Mr. Martin aft- 
erward married Katberine Moore, with whom he 
resided on the farm until the time of his death in 
L827. 

Joseph Martin (father of our subject) was born 
on the farm in West Bethlehem township, March 
IT), 1790, and spent his early years attending school 
in the winter and working on the farm in the sum- 
mer. He married Elizabeth Hayden, who died 
shortly after without issue. He next married 
Nancy lams, of Amwell township, December 27, 
1821, living at lams' Mills. John lams, the mater- 
nal grandfather of Morgan Martin, came to Wash- 
ington county, from Maryland, about 1776, and 
purchased of a Mr. Keys the property, formerly 



1020 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



known as lams' Mills ( now Bissell P. O.), which 
had been previously patented by a Mr. Kelsey. 
Mr. lams and his wife, whose maiden name was 
Ilampson, walked and carried all their worldly 
po3 sessions from .Maryland to Pennsylvania; but 
being a miller and millwright, he prospered, pur- 
chased an old mill on the site of the one now owned 
by Morgan Martin, and tearing it down erected a 
new building, where he continued to follow his vo- 
cation the remainder of his life. In addition to the 
mill property Mr. lams owned about 300 acres of 
land, and was verv successful in business. He died 
July 4, 1823, leaving the following named chil- 
dren: William lams (married Delilah Meek, died 
April I, L869, aged seventy-seven years; she died 
September 6, L876, aged ninety-three years, leav- 
ing ten children: Miller, John H., Elisha, Thomas, 
Isaac, William, Delilah, Mary, Abraham and 
Rachel); John lams (died April 30, IS Mi, aged 
thirty-four years and six months); Nancy (who 
married Joseph Martin) ; Charity (wife of John 
D. Smith, died January' 19, 1870, aged seventy- 
seven years). Her husband died March 12, 1876, 
aged eighty-one years, leaving the following chil- 
dren: Martin, Thomas (deceased), Amos, John, 
Joseph, Nathan, William, Freeman, Elizabeth, 
Nancv and Ira (deceased). Sarah, wife of Will- 
iam H. Hathaway, died April 15, 1838, aged thir- 
ty-four years and six months. Mary married 
Moses Smith, died September ,">, 1859, aged fifty- 
nine years four months and five days. Moses Smith 
died September 11, 1848, aged forty-one years ten 
months and twenty-eight days. Thev had children 
born to them as fpllows: John (who died in the 
army, at the battle of Fair Oaks), Moses, Joseph 
and Sarah (Mrs. Huffman). 

Joseph Martin owned 280 acres of land. In pol- 
itics he was a Democrat, and though not a politi- 
cian, took an active interest in securing good local 
government. He died December 25, 1850, aged 
sixty years, nine months and ten days. Mrs. Mar- 
tin was a member of the IJaptist Church, and died 
in that faith on January 21, i879, aged eighty-four 
years and eleven days. The record of Joseph and 
Nancv (lams) Martin's children is as follows: 
Morgan, born October 19, 1823; Elizabeth I., No- 
vember 24, 1825, died December 13, 1825; John 
I., February 8, 1828, died November 8, 1892; 
Joseph, April 2, 1831, died May 13, 1853; Anna, 
July 23, 1S33; and Sarah, February 1, 1836, all 
of whom were born in West Bethlehem township. 
John I. married Elizabeth Barr November lit', 
1851, and to them children were born as follows: 
Joseph (deoeased), Sarah (Mrs. Keys), A. Jack- 
son, Martha, Samuel and C. W. Martin, who re- 
side on the farm located by their grandfather in 
West Bethlehem. Anna married A. P. Van- 
Dyke January 25, 1855. To them were born: 
Leroy M,, Nancy (Mrs, Swart), Elizabeth (Mr.-. 



Bebout ), Kate M., Hannah C. (Mrs. Allen, de- 
ceased), Thomas and Florence A. Van Dyke. 
Sarah married Neal Xollars November 7, 1860. 
They had eight children: George, Joseph, Nancy 
(deceased), Ezekiel (deceased), Grant, Kate, El- 
mira, and Martha Xollars. 

Morgan Martin, son of Joseph and Nancy ( lams) 
Martin, was born October lit, 1823, and remained 
on the farm until twenty-seven years of age. About 
1850 he began the milling business at Martin's 
Mills (now Bissell postoffice), of which he is post- 
master, which business he has ever since followed 
with success. On Ssptember IS, 1856, he was 
united in marriage with Anna Reese, daughter of 
Thomas and Anna (Sunderland) Reese, of West 
Bethlehem township. To Mr. and Mrs. Morgan 
Martin have been born eight children, namely: 
Sanford, born June IS, 1ST.7, married Alice Bigler 
March 9, 1882, and died September 5, L889, at 
Tacoma, State of Washington; Eliza Jane, born 
December 19, 1859, married October 13, 1883, 
William S. Bigler (she died August 22, 1887, 
leaving two children, Israel G., born August 11, 
1 SSI, and Estella, born February 11, 1SS7); William 
R., born December 28, 1802; Anna, born December 
17, 1864; Sarah, born June S, 1807; Nancy, born 
August 12, 1869; Mary Ellen, born September 6, 
1872, died December 30, 1885, and Lucinda, born 
October 10, 1S7 1. Mr. and Mrs. Morgan Martin, 
with their family, belong to the M. E. Church. 
Politically he is a Democrat, though not a politi- 
cian. He commenced keeping a general store in 
1870, and continues to operate both mill and store 
with marked success. He built the residence in 
which he now resides in 1854, and erected the store 
in 1880, in which is carried on his mercantile busi- 
ness and the business of the Bissell postoffice. 

The brothers and sisters of Thomas Reese are: 
Jesse, Solomon, William, James, Rachel ( Mrs. 
Fisher), Nancy (Mrs. Egy), Sally (Mrs. McCor- 
mick), and Sena (Mrs. Scott). The record of the 
the children of Thomas Reese and Anna Sunder- 
land Reese is as follows: William Reese (married 
Matilda Mikesel, and had born to them: James, 
Henry, Nancy (Mrs. Miller), Frank, Elsworth, 
Effie and Ida, the most of whom reside in Illinois. 
By his second wife he has two children). Henry 
Reese (married Catherine Argo, had born to them 
Semantha (Mrs. Cole), William, Addie (Mrs. 
K'oiitli), Jennie, Lyman, and Oran. By his second 
wife he had three children, all residing in Illinois). 
Sarah (married Samuel Braden; their children 
are named as follows: John Newton (deceased), 
Leroy, Flora (Mrs. Sharp ), Mary Ellen (deceased ), 
Martha, Anna (Mrs. Shrontz), Rebecca (Mrs. 
Gray), William, Henry, Sarah and Samuel B. 
Braden, all residents of this county). Rebecca 
(married "John Ferrell; their children are: Eli- 
zab, Henry, John §., Jerry, Joseph, A,. J,, Harvey, 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1021 



Lizzie (Mrs. Keller), Mary (Mrs. Smith), part of 
whom reside in Iowa, the rest are residents of Ne- 
braska). Isabell (married A. J. Grable, and had 
born to them: Emerson, Laura, Alvin, Mary, Will, 
Oscar, Anna, Edward and Lizzie, the most of whom 
reside in Kansas). Anna (married Morgan Mar- 
tin, as already related). Nancy (married Albert 
Clarke, and to them were born Alice and William, 
who reside in Kansas). Mary ( married A. J. Gar- 
rett, and had born to them Zadie (Mrs. Wood- 
head), Nora (Mrs. Glogan), Jackson, Martin R., 
and Daisy. They are residents of Kansas). Lu- 
cinda (married Cyrus Critchfield, and to their 
union was born one son, Sanford Critchfield, who 
resides at Denver, Colo.). Thomas Reese married 
Martha Thomas, and had born to their union Anna, 
John, William, Archibald, Charles and Georgia 
May, all residents of Coal Centre, this county. 



d,OSEPH G. CHARLTON. In tracing the 
history of our civilization we find no influ- 
ence has been more potent for good than 
that of the daily press; especially is this true 
of the present century, when every important fact 
around the globe is brought to our very doors, and 
he who runs may read the record. Few of us often 
pause to think of the vast amount of brain power 
and energy required to keep this wonderful ma- 
chinery of the press in motion. We twine fair 
laurel wreaths to crown our heroes who battle in 
deadly strife for liberty, and why should the heroes 
of literature go down to the grave in utter obli- 
vion? Their victories are no less important to the 
world than were those won on bloody fields, and 
manv a martyred hero has fallen after a warfare of 
not four, but four-score years in the army of the 
Scribes. All honor to our soldiers whether in the 
fields of carnage or of literature; both are fighting 
for liberty and right if they are true soldiers, and 
through the efforts of both "the truth is marching 
on." 

Joseph G. Charlton was born May 17, 184 t, in 
Washington, Washington Co., Penn., and passed 
his boyhood at the home of his uncle, in North 
Strabane township, receiving a common-school 
education. At the age of eighteen years he 
entered the printing office of The Reporter, Wash- 
ington, Penn., remaining there about four years. 
He then went to Pittsburgh, also working in other 
places. In 1870 he opened a confectionery store 
in Washington, Penn., and some years later pro- 
ceeded to Indianapolis, Ind. On Oct. 16, 1874, he 
was married to Tabitha S., daughter of James Hall, 
of Washington, Penn., and she has borne him two 
children, Maud and Harry. After their marriage 
Mr. and Mrs. Charlton resided five years at MoCon- 
nell's Mill, Washington Co., Penn., where he con- 
ducted 2 general §tore, At the end of that time 



he entered the publishing otlice of the Canons- 
burg Notes, and in 1886 opened an office, pub- 
lishing a paper called The Local. In 1888 he 
purchased the Canonsburg Herald, and is now the 
sole proprietor of both publications issued under 
the latter name, consisting of a seven-columm 
folio. Mr. Charlton attends the Methodist Epis- 
copal Church, and in political opinion is a 
Republican. 



JOHN McCOY, a descendant of one of the 
prominent early pioneers of this county, and 
himself one of the most highly respected 
citizens of West Finley township, is a native 
of the same, born in 1836 on the farm whereon he 
now lives. 

Daniel McCoy, his grandfather, a native of 
Scotland, came to America in L772, with his broth- 
ers, Angus and James, landing in Baltimore, Md., 
where, as was the custom at that period with 
impecunious immigrants, they were hired to a 
tobacco planter to work out the price of passage. 
On the same trip there came over a Miss Nancy 
McCoy, who for a similar reason was hired to the 
same planter who employed Daniel, and the 
friendship which sprung up between Nancy and 
Daniel ripened, in course of time, into a love which 
resulted in their union for life as soon as their 
passage had been fully worked out. They then 
came to Washington county, Penn., and here 
bought the farm, in what is now. West Finley 
township, that has been in the possession of the 
McCoy family ever since, the original land patent 
for which was obtained from the Craig heirs. The 
old deed, dated 1788, is still in the possession of 
the subject of this sketch. To Daniel and Nancy 
(McCoy) McCoy were born nine children: Alex- 
ander, John, William, Angus, Kenneth, James, 
Betsey, Christy and Joseph, all now deceased. 
Angus McCoy's children were Joseph D., Janet, 
Margaret, William and Alexander; while the 
children of James McCoy were Alexander, John, 
William, Daniel and David. 

Kenneth McCoy, who was the fifth child in the 
family, was born May 25, 1791, on the farm his 
father had settled on, and here lived all his life 
cultivating the soil, and every year adding to the 
improvements thereon. This farm he bought at 
the time of his marriage with Jane Brownlee, 
which happy event occurred April IS, 1817. Their 
home was brightened by the birth of children 
as follows: Jane, born June 4, 1818; Joseph, born 
November 1, 1819; Elizabeth, born October 4, 
18:24; Mary, born August 29, 1827, and John, our 
subject, all yet living except Jane and Joseph, the 
former of whom died August 15 1844, ami the 
latter December 27, 1KS7. ' The father departed t (l 

fcbat Better Land, " where &1! b&ve gone god &U must 



1022 



WASHING TON COUNTY 



go," January 19, L873, the mother, July 27, 1869. 
John Mc( oy was reared to the occupation of his 
forefathers, and has never left the old home farm, 
excepting the time lie spent in traveling in the 
western States, shortly alter his father's decease. 
His education was received at the common schools 
of his district, which he supplemented with much 
reading and close observation of men and things. 
With the savings from his hard earnings, he was 
enabled, on his return home from the West, to buy 
off the other heirs to his father's estate, and he is 
now sole proprietor, the property being one of the 
finest in the township. Mr. McCoy was married 
November 19, 1877, to Mary E., daughter of George 
Eckles, of West Finley township, and their union 
has been blessed with four children: Margaret, 
born August 26, 1878; John, born December 7, 
1879; George, born February 18, 1882, and Edwin 
B., born September 10, 1886. In politics Mr. 
McCoy has been a lifelong Republican, but has 
never aspired to office. The McCoys have always 
been liberty-loving people, and some members of 
the family, in days gone by, were prominent 
Abolitionists. 

Kenneth McCoy, father of our subject, aided 
at various times many slaves in their escape by the 
" Underground Railroad " into Canada, and at one 
time he had eleven colored fugitives secreted in 
his barn, whom he fed and sheltered until an 
importunity offered for them to continue on their 
flight to liberty. It is said of his cousin Kenneth 
McCoy, of Ripley, Ohio, that some years ago he 
pried open the doors of a jail, cut the hand-cuffs 
and shackles off the prisoners, and liberated a 
number of unfortunate runaway slaves, who had 
been recaptured and temporarily incarcerated. He 
was a blacksmith and tool-dresser. Knowing where 
quarrymen had left a crowbar, he seized it and 
carried out his project of freeing the slaves. The 
authorities arrested another man, and summoned 
McCoy as a witness to identify the crowbar. The 
prosecutor asked him when he saw the crowbar 
last? "Why,'' he responded, "at the jail, the 
night 1 let the darkies out." The prisoner was 
discharged; but there is no record of the prosecu- 
tion of McCoy for this early effort to emancipate 
the colored brothers. 



. AMUEL M. M.CONNELL. Among the 
representative and well-known old citizens 
I of Hanover township, none stand higher 
than this gentleman. 
The genealogy of the family can be traced to 
two brothers, Alexander and Matthew, who left 
Scotland, their native land, for America, prior to 
t he Revolutionary war. Matthew McConnell was 
born about tin- year 171'.'. Alter landing in Amer- 
ica he was attracted by the fertile valleys in Lan- 



caster county, Penn., and, there making his first 
permanent settlement, commenced agricultural pur- 
suits. Here he was married to Mary Alexander, a 
native of Lancaster county, and about 177'J this 
couple started to seek their fortunes in the " far 
west," as Washington county was then considered, 
making the tedious journey over the mountains. 
They were frequently obliged to cut roads through 
the forests as tbey proceeded. All the streams were 
forded, and the nights passed under some spread- 
ing oak, or perhaps they slept in their wagon. 
Their location in Washington (then a part of West- 
moreland) county was made within the present 
limits of Cecil township, where some of their de- 
scendants are yet living. A log cabin was soon 
erected, and the giant oaks fell beneath the axe of 
the pioneer until a space was cleared, on which 
they planted the essential crop of corn. Matthew 
McConnell passed the remainder of his days in 
this wilderness home, and the rude cabin which 
had first been erected was soon displaced by a 
more substantial and commodious dwelling which 
stood for many years after. As new settlements 
were made, the wilderness was gradually trans- 
formed into waving fields of grain, and comfort- 
able homes were made. Politically Mr. McConnell 
was a prominent member of the Federalist party, 
and filled several offices in the county at various 
times; he was one of the twelve justices of the 
peace who constituted the court of Washington 
county. In religion he was a prominent member 
of the Union or Associate Reformed Church. His 
children were Alexander, who died of small-pox 
when young, vaccination being then unknown; 
Elizabeth, who also died of small-pox; John, who 
moved to Trumbull county, Ohio, where he was an 
early settler; Frances, who resided in Harrison 
county, Ohio; Jane, who was married to William 
Berry, and died in Canonsburg, Penn.; Prudence, 
who married John Dunlap, and lived near Poland, 
Mahoning Co., Ohio; William, who resided in 
Richland county, Ohio; Mary, who lived in Cecil 
township; James and Lettice (twins), the latter of 
whom never married, and Martha, never married. 

Matthew McConnell, son of Matthew and Mary 
( Alexander ) McConnell, was born in Cecil town- 
ship, Washington Co., Penn., October 8, 1778, and 
passed his boyhood on the farm of his father, at- 
tending the subscription schools. He then taught 
school in Richland county, ( )hio, living at home 
most of the time. In 1812 he was married to Ann 
Merchant, daughter of Samuel Merchant, a native 
of County Londonderry, Ireland, who immigrated 
to America and to Washington county, Penn., set- 
tling in Hanover township in early times; he was 
driven out by Indians only to return in later years, 
and passed his remaining days on the farm. The 
following children were born to the union of Mat- 
thew and Ann McConnell: Matthew A. (deceased 



WASHING TON COUNTY. 



I OSS 



in youth), Margaret (now the widow of Thomas 
Merchant, and living in Florence), Elizabeth A. 
( deceased in youth), Samuel M. (whose name opens 
this sketch), Prudence ( who resides in Florence), 
Matthew F. (farmer of Hanover township, who was 
born September 4, 1827, and died March 8, 189] |, 
and Mary Jane ( unmarried, living in Florence, 
Penn.). Mr. and Mrs. MeConnell passed their 
wedded lives on the "Old Merchant Homestead" 
in Hanover township, where he followed farming 
until his death, December 29, 1829. He was a 
very progressive man, and though dying in the 
very prime of life, had become prominently iden- 
tified with many public movements. In politics he 
was a Whig, and in religion believed in the creed 
of the Associate Reformed Church, but owing to 
the loner distance which must be traveled in those 
days to attend a church of that denomination, he 
united with the Presbyterian Church at Cross 
Roads, of which his wife had previously been a 
member. She died in 1870, in her seventy-sixth 
year, on the same farm where she was born and 
where she had passed her life. 

Samuel M. MeConnell was born October 14, 
1821, in Hanover township, Washington Co., Penn., 
and received a subscription-school education. His 
first " book " was the letters of the alphabet pasted 
on a wooden paddle, and the length of a school 
term was very uncertain, as no stated time was 
designated. He worked for his father on the home 
place, and afterward labored as a farm hand at 
several places in the neighborhood. On October 
2, 18(50, he was married to Sarah J. Wallace, daugh- 
ter of .fames Wallace, who was descended from an 
old family, prominently identified with the pioneer 
history of Hanover township. 

Robert Wallace, a native of Scotland, immi- 
grated to America and settled in Westmoreland 
county, Penn., where he remained about three 
years. He there married Jane McCoy, and the 
young couple came to what is now Hanover town- 
ship, this county, where in 1771 he took out a 
patent for 300 acres of land on Brush creek. In- 
dians were numerous and settlers scarce, and several 
times they were driven from their home to return 
again after the Indians had gone. So they con- 
tinued to reside in their cabin home until about 
1775, when one day in May of that year, Mr. Wal- 
lace, returning from a search in the forest for some 
calves that had strayed away, found his cabin in 
ashes and his family (then consisting of his wife 
and three children ) gone. He at once knew it to 
be the work of the savages, who as he afterward 
discovered had lain hidden in a convenient flax 
patch until they had seen him leave home. Hastily 
arousing the few neighbors, the little band of de- 
termined men started in pursuit. They soon struck 
the trail, and had not proceeded far when they 
found the body of the youngest child, who bad thus 



early fallen a victim to the bloodthirsty instincts of 
the savages. They followed the trail to the Ohio 
river, but arrived too late to prevent the Redskins 
crossing; and further pursuit being futile, returned 
to their homes. Mrs. Wallace was also massacred 
on the way, and her mutilated body was afterward 
found near that of her babe. The two remaining 
children were taken by the Indians as far west as 
Indiana^ where the younger died in captivity. The 
eldest child, Robert, was restored to his father 
three years later through an exchange of prisoners. 
This son, Robert, lived until his death in Robinson 
township, where he was known as " Indian Bob;" a 
term indicative of his early captivity, and one of 
his sons still resides upon his farm there. Robert 
Wallace, Sr., afterward married Mary Walker, and 
they had the following children: John, Jane, James, 
Ann, Sarah and Elsie. The youngest daughter of 
James Wallace, of this family, became Mrs. S. M. 
MeConnell. Robert Wallace, Sr., resided on his 
farm, on Brush creek, until his death, which occurred 
about the year 1807, when he was aged eighty- 
seven years, and was buried at Florence. Among 
the earliest settlers of Hanover township, he was 
indeed one of those sturdy men who braved untold 
dangers and opened a pathway through the wilder- 
ness, which has made possible the march of civiliza- 
tion and the wonderful progress of the nineteenth 
century. 

One daughter has been born to the union of 
Samuel MeConnell and Sarah Wallace, viz.: Annie 
J. (Mrs. George Saxton ), who with her husband is 
yet living on her father's farm. Alter his marriage 
Samuel M. MeConnell located on the old Wallace 
farm, situated about two miles east of Florence, in 
Hanover township, and has given his entire atten- 
tion to general farming and stock raising, in which 
Jie has been very successful. Politically he was 
originally a Whig, now a Republican, and is one of 
the influential men of his party, which he has served 
in various local offices. He is one of the best- 
known men in the community, and has hosts of 
friends. He is a member of the Presbyterian 
Church, in which he is very active, having been a 
member of Session, of which he officiated as clerk 
for more than twenty-five years. He was also clerk 
of the board of trustees for more than twenty years. 
In 1883 the faithful wife and loving mother was 
called by the Master to her higher abode. On De- 
cember PHier spirit passed beyond the river of death 
to that heavenly home " where no storms ever beat 
on that glittering strand, while the years of eternity 
roll." Early in youth she became a member of the 
Cross Roads Presbyterian Church, and her whole 
life had been one of exemplary Christian woman- 
hood. She passed away in her forty-seventh year, 
honored and revered by all. 

Mr. MeConnell still resides at his old home where 
he has passed so many years of his life, enjoying a 



KILT, 



WASHINGTON COU.XTY. 



handsome competence, the direct result of industry 

and economy. He is a man of strong personalities, 
and adheres to what he considers right with a 
tenacity characteristic of the race from which he is 
descended. He, however, is not intolerant, but has 
for the opinions of those who differ from him the 
utmost deference and respect. Though in his 
se\ enty-second year, he is the mental and physical 
superior of many younger men, while his hair and 
beard, now whitened by time, become the wearer 
as the silver crown of a life well spent, rather than 
as a mark of the passing years. 



ri( .1. THOMAS, one of the best-known and 
//' l\ most enterprising native-born farmer citi- 
r^t\ zens of North Strabane township, first 

Jl —> opened his eyes to the wonders of the world 

V April 21, 1851. 

Kdward Thomas, grandfather of A. J., is the 
first of the family in this county of whom there is 
any data. lie was a native of eastern Pennsvl vania, 
whence, when a young man, he came hither and 
made a settlement in North Strabane township, 
where he carried on farming to the end of his busy 
life, becoming one of the leading citizens, ever in 
the van of all progressive movements. He was 
here married to Rhoda, daughter of David Leonard, 
of Washington county, who resided near the 
village of Bentleyville, and the children born to 
them were Sarah, Mary, Ann, (still living at ninety- 
two years), Rebecca, Phoebe, Liverton, Lydia, 
Rhoda and Nancy. Rebecca was blind from the age 
of seventeen years to her death in her seventieth 
pear. Mr. Thomas early united with the Pres- 
byterian Church, in after life becoming a trustee, 
serving for many years, and an elder. Politically 
he was a zealous 1 )emocrat. 

Liverton Thomas, father of our subject, was 
born in North Strabane township, Washington 
Co., I Vim., May 12, 1808, and his education was 
received at the schools of his district, which he 
enhanced by much after study. In 1834, he was 
married, in ( >hio, to Miss Mary A. Glandon, who 
was born in Maryland October 2, INF! (a daughter 
of William and Mary M. Glandon ), who moved with 
her parents to I larrison county, ( thio; the results of 

this union were nine children, eiirht of whom are 

... . - . ~ 

yet living, viz.: Edmond, in Saline county. Neb.; 

William, a firmer in Chase county, Neb.; .lames 

M., a merchant in Nottingham township; Rhoda L., 

wife of .John Hodgens, of I tes Moines county, Iowa; 
G. I .., a physician in Philadelphia, 1 Vnn.; lie lie M., 
wife of James C. Matthews, a farmer and under- 
taker in North Strabane township; A. J., on the old 
home farm, and Ida M., wife of William Kettle, of 
Kush county, Fans.; ( ( 'aleb F. died in infancy). 
The mother died December 10, L873 and the 
father then went to live with his daughter, Mrs. 



John Hodgens, in lies Moines county, Iowa, where 
he now is. A member of the Presbyterian Church, 
he has always been a liberal supporter, was the 
donator of the land on which the Fairview church 
now stands, and materially contributed toward its 
erection. Politically he is a lifelong Democrat, 
and has been in his day a hard worker for the 
party's interests. 

The boyhood and youth of A. J. Thomas were 
spent on the homestead where he was born, attend- 
ing during the winter months the common schools 
of his district, the remainder of the year being 
reserved for hard out-of-door work on the farm. In 
1873 he was married to Jennie M., daughter of 
Andrew ('ouch, of Nottingham township, and four 
children have come to brighten their domestic 
hearth: Alma (died at eleven months), Errol M. (died 
at eleven years and two months I, Wallace ( '., and 
Josie A. (died at two years and three months). Their 
mother dying (January 5, lSMt), Mr. Thomas wedded, 
November 10, 189Q, Rilla C, daughter of Andrew 
Crawford, of Peters township. The family are 
members of the United Presbyterian Church at 
Mount Prospect, of which Mr. Thomas is trustee. 
Politically he was born a Democrat, has lived a 
Democrat, and expects to die one; he has repeat- 
edly been urged to accept office, but has, on account 
of his many home duties and responsibilities, 
invariably declined the proffered honor. Soon after 
his marriage Mr. Thomas purchased a portion of 
the home place, on which he has continued to 
reside. He is a successful farmer and stock raiser, 
and is respected in the community as an upright, 
progressive and loyal citizen. 



r AMUEL \V. CRAFT. The well-known 
family, of which this gentleman is a conspic- 
uous member, are of German descent, and 
the earliest record of them now extant is of 
one Daniel ('raft, who came to Fayette county, 
Perm., about the year l~">n, and settling near Mer 
rittstown, there entered a wild, uncultivated tract 
of land, which continued to remain in the family 
name until L891. This Daniel Craft had three 
sous, Samuel, Daniel and Benjamin. 

Samuel Craft, son of the pioneer, Daniel, was 
born in Germany, and there received his early 
education. He learned and followed the trade of 
a silversmith in the Fatherland, and when a young 
man came to America. He here bought several 
teams, and carried goods across the mountains to 
Philadelphia and Baltimore, but finally abandoned 
that business, anil took up the trade of clock mak- 
ing, lie had two children, Samuel ami Elizabeth. 
In religious faith he was a member of the Baptist 
Church. Samuel Craft, son of Samuel, was born 
and reared in Fayette county, Penn., where he 
attended the subscription schools. In early life he 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



io'JT 



was married to Elizabeth, daughter of Adam Chess- 
round, of Washington county, Penn., and the 
following children were born to this union: Adam, 
Peter, Washington, Jonathan, Abel, Leroy, Joshua 
and Eli. The rather passed his life in agricultural 
pursuits. In 1821 he went to Vincennes, Ind., 
and resided there about ten years, and then re- 
turned to Washington county, and lived for some 
time in Failowfield township. Some years later he 
removed to Fayette county, Penn., whence in 1850 
he went to Iowa, where he died. In religious faith 
he was a member of the Biptist Church; in poli- 
tics he was an active Whig. Adam Craft, son of 
Samuel and Elizabeth Craft, was born in 1810, in 
Fayette county, Penn., where he was reared and 
educated. In early manhood he selected a life 
companion in the person of Margaret, daughter of 
Jacob Bird, and their children were Jacob, Samuel 
W., Elizabeth (wife of John L. Trent), Sarah (de- 
ceased wife of Jacob Huggins) and three whose 
names are not given. After his marriage Mr. 
Craft settled on a farm in Failowfield township, 
Washington Co., Penn., and followed farming in 
connection with the carpentry and building busi- 
ness. He remained on that place about four years, 
then moved to a farm owned by his father- in-law, 
and in 1841 came to East Pike Run township. In 
1850 he moved to California, this county, and died 
in that village September 6, 1853, his widow sur- 
viving till February 22, 1887. They were members 
of the Baptist Church, and in political opinion he 
was a Democrat. 

Samuel W. Craft, whose name opens this sketch, 
son of Adam and Margaret Craft, was born at 
Jonestown, Washington Co., Penn., July 1, 1835, 
and was reared in the same county, attending 
school in the log schoolhouse of that age. He 
worked on a farm till he was seventeen years old, 
when he learned the trade of ship-carpenter, work- 
ing as a common hand until 1859, when he became 
foreman of the yard, continuing as foreman till 
1865, then becoming a partner in the ship-building 
business, and remained in the business till 1870, 
when the railroad completely destroyed their yard. 
He then open up in the furniture and undertaking 
business, which he is still successfully engaged in. 
He became a member of the M. E. Church at the 
age of sixteen years, was leader of choir about 
thirty years, retiring on account of failure of voice; 
serving also as class leader, trustee, steward and 
treasurer for many years. On May 24, 1862, Mr. 
Craft was united in marriage with Martha, daughter 
of Joseph Powell, a native of Washington county, 
Penn., and she has borne him nine children, of 
whom Josephine and Katharine are still living. 
Mr. Craft became deeply interested in the success 
and welfare of the Southwestern State Normal 
School, located at California in 1866, giving liber- 
ally of his time and money. In 1867 he was 



elected a member of the Board of Trustees, and 
has served continually ever since, serving as chair- 
man of important committees, and as vice-president 
for years. Soon after Mr. Craft entered the Board 
he was recognized as its financial leader, and in 
1873, when the school had reached the end of its 
resources, and the trustees had done all they were 
able to do, and the sheriff was pushing claims on 
them, it became imperative on the Board to raise 
money to save the institution from financial wreck. 
The duty of formulating a policy to raise the 
needed money speedily, fell on Mr. Craft, who 
successfully planned a financial policy by issuing 
five fifteen -year and five twenty-year first and 
second mortgage coupon bonds which were suc- 
cessfully placed on the market at par, from which 
they realized in a short time sufficient funds to save 
the school financially, and since that time he is 
known as the father of the successful financial pol- 
icy which saved the institution, and the guardian 
of the treasury. In politics, like his father, he has 
always been a Democrat and takes special interest 
in local affairs. 



f OHN J. GEORGE, farmer and stock raiser, 
Mt. Pleasant township, was born February 5, 
t 1847, in Columbiana county, Ohio, a son 
^^ of David H. and Christiana J. (George) 
George. His paternal grandfather was Judge 
Thomas George, who married Jane Hunter, and 
she died many years ago. He was married the 
second time, and passed away in August, 1873. 

David H. George, a son of Judge Thomas 
George, was born in 1813, in Jefferson county, 
Ohio. In 1839 a he was married to Christiana J. 
George, who was born in 1819, in Mt. Pleasant 
township, Washington county, Penn., a daughter 
of Jacob and Isabella (Berry) George, both of 
Washington county, Penn. Jacob George was a 
Covenanter originally, jind then joined the United 
Presbyterian Church, in which he was a ruling 
elder. He died November 29, 1880. After their 
marriage Mr. and Mrs. David H. George settled 
in Columbiana county, Ohio, and children were 
born to them as follows: J. Newton (deceased in 
March, 1880), Thos. P. (living in McDonald, Penn.), 
William K. (yet living in Columbiana county, 
Ohio), John J. (whose name opens this sketch), 
Robert E. (living on the old homestead), Bella J. 
(wife of Rev. S. J. Kyle, a minister of Cambridge, 
Washington Co., N. Y.), and Margaret T. (who 
died unmarried December 6, 1861, in Ohio). The 
parents were formerly members of the Associate 
Reformed Church, then united with the U. P. So- 
ciety. The father was an active member of the 
Whig and Republican parties, and an ardent Abol- 
itionist. He died DecemberlO, 1861, in Ohio, 
where bis widow is yet residing. David H. George 



102S 



II'. I SHINGTON COUNTY. 



had eleven brothers and sisters, all now deceased 
except two brothers and one sister; his wife had 
one brother and two sisters, of whom the brother 
and one sister are dead. 

John J. George was educated in the district 
schools of his birthplace. In 1874 he came to a 
farm in Mt. Pleasant township, Washington Co., 
Penn., and March 3, 1881, was married to Miss A. 
Kin ma, who was born in Pittsburgh, Penn., only 
daughter of John and Nancy Lindsay, natives of 
Ireland, who came to America many years ago, 
locating in Pittsburgh, Penn., where the father is 
yet living; the mother died in 1877. Mr. and Mrs. 
John J. George have resided all their married life 
on the farm of 137 acres which belongs to Mrs. C. 
T. George, and they own (adjoining the property) 
sixty-two acres of land which contains a producing 
nil-well. Mr. George is an active member of the 
Republican party. He and his wife are members 
of the Centre U. P. Church at Midway, in which 
he is a ruling elder. They have an adopted daugh- 
ter, Bertha B. 




\ILLIAM PErCS is one of the most enter- 
prising and prosperous agriculturists of 
North Strabane township, and is a mem- 
ber of an old and highly-respected family. 
Nicholas Pees, great-grandfather of subject, in 
company with an uncle emigrated from Germany 
and settled in Canigaugig, " east of the mountains." 
Bere he married and had three children: Mary, 
Andrew and George. About the year 1769 lie 
journeyed on foot to what was then known as the 
" backwoods," and took up 400 acres of land on 
Little Chartiers creek, in what is now North Stra- 
bane township, Washington Co., Penn. lie re- 
turned East, and brought back to his new home his 
wife and three children, above named, the boy 
George, together with all their worldly effects, be- 
ing conveyed on the back of a horse, the rest jour- 
neying on foot. During the first winter the family 
lived in a small log cabin, which the father had 
erected near the present residence of John M. 
Berry, on the original tract of 400 acres. Here 
were born four more children: Nicholas, Catherine, 
Betsy and Susan. All of the children except 
Nicholas married and had children. Andrew 
served in the war of I SI "J. This honored pioneer, 
Nicholas Pees, died at the patriarchal age of 105 
years. In stature six feet one inch, and well pro- 
portioned, he was a modern Goliath in physique and 
strength. His faithful wife lived to be upward of 
ninety years of age. 

George Pees, grandfather of subject, was four 
years old when the family came to Washington 
county, he being the one that came along with the 
chattels on horseback. He was married to Lydia 
Vaughn, a native of New Jersey, daughter of John 



Vaughn, and the children born to this union were: 
Polly (1), Andrew, Rebecca, Xachariah, John, 
Nicholas, George, Joseph, James, Eliza, Polly (2), 
Lydia, and two daughters who died in infancy. ( if 
these children Polly ( 1 ) was burned to death when 
quite young; Joseph died at the age of thirty, and 
James at the age of twenty five. The others mar- 
ried, had families, and remained in Washington 
county. George Pees passed from earth March I, 
1849, and his wife followed him to the grave Octo- 
ber 10, L865. Both are buried in the cemetery of 
Pigeon ('reek Presbyterian Church, of which they 
were active and prominent members. 

Zachariah Pees, father of subject, was born July 
1T>, 1700, in the house now owned and occupied by 
John M. Berry. When twenty-one years of age 
his father exchanged farms with his uncle, Andrew 
Pees, securing in the exchange a saw and grist 
mill, known far and wide as "Pees Mills," which 
was operated by Zachariah Pecs fourteen years. 
On December 27, 1820, he married Hannah Pees, 
and the following- is a brief record of the children 
born to them: William is the subject proper of this 
memoir; Joseph, born August 21, 1823, was mar- 
rie I to Sarah Newsom; Andrew, born July 4, 1825, 
married Julia Ann, daughter of John and Sarah 
Ann (Haines) Dickson, by whom he had the fol- 
lowing children: Zachariah Mason, Ida, Elizabeth 
and John; Mary, born May 1, L827, married Jacob 
Anthony, a farmer in Illinois, and had ten children: 
I human, Pearson, Belle, Jane, Ann, Abbie, Ettie, 
Grant, John and Zachariah; Lydia, born July 21, 
183Q, married Zachariah Pees, a farmer in Illinois, 
and had four children: Sloan, Francis, Clark and 
Leslie; Elizabeth, born June •">, 1833, died March 11, 
Isll; George, born April 27, 1835, died May 3, 
1835; Hannah Jane, born May 20, 1839, died May 
10, 1841; and Phoebe, born April 7, 1S41, died 
October 30, same year. Mrs. Pees died October 4, 
1846, and Mr. Pees was married, January 13, 1S4S, 
to Jane, daughter of Robert and Margaret Jackson, 
and born in Lancaster county, Penn., October IS, 
1806. Her family were connections of President 
Andrew Jackson. By this second marriage Zacha- 
riah Pees had one child, Margaret, who was born 
May 12, 1849, and died May is, 1S77. About the 
year 1825 Mr. Pees bought a farm in Ohio, which 
lie afterward sold, and then purchased the farm in 
North Strabane township, this county, now occupied 
by his son William. lie died October 10, 1885, an 
elder in the Pigeon Creek Church, in the cemetery 
of which he now sleeps. 

William Pees was born October 13, L821. He 
was reared from boyhood to farm life, and received 
his education at the schools of his district. On May 
30, |Sll, he married Mary Jane Cheesman, and 
this union was blessed with one child: Mary J., 
who was born December 31 , 1S45 (on November 
10, 1S75, she* married John Alexander Gault, by 





/Z<H 




~£&4 



WASHINGTON COL.YTY. 



1031 



whom she had the following children: Mary Emma, 
born September 1, 1876; D. Leroy, born September 
26, 1878; Emma C, born September 12, 1880; 
Olive E., born October 25, 1882; Xora Virginia, 
born October 19, 1884; Jennie Mowry, born 
October 12, 1886; and John Alexander, Jr., born 
December 19, 1889. They live in Union township, 
near Courtney). Mrs. Pees died February 12, 1846, 
and William Pees was married in 1848 to Eliza .1. 
Davis, who was born August 25, 1822. Two 
children came to them: Hannah, born December 
14, 1849, and William A., born January 6, 1852, 
both deceased. Their mother passed away on May 
26, 1853, and Mr. Pees was married, on January 
12, 1854, to Cordelia Sutman, who was born April 
14, 1833, a daughter of Joseph and Susannah 
(Myers) Sutman, and this third marriage was 
blessed with seven children: Catherine, born May 
2, 1855, married, September 28, 1880, to Samuel 
H. Brehm, of Uniontown, Penn., by whom she has 
had three children: Hoy E., Clyde G. and Cora 
Lena; Anna M., born January 10, 1856, and 
married, August 26, 1879, to J. B. Thomas, of West 
Alexander, by whom she has had three children: 
Ada 1 )., ( )liver W. and James William ( deceased ) ; 
William T., born November 5, L858, and married 
September 11, 1879, to Josephine Kelsey, who 
bore him four children: Violet Myrtle, Anna Bell, 
Jessie Melvin and Orlo, who died when two months 
old (William T. is a farmer of North Strabane 
township, Washington Co., Penn.); Albert E., born 
August 17, 1861, married to Lilli'e Arend, who bore 
him one son, Albert Floyd ( he lives on the old 
homestead); Clara B., born November 13, 1863, 
was married, June 7, 1883, to John Thomas, of 
Chartiers township, by whom she had the following 
children: Charles EL, and Olive Pearl and William 
J. (twins, the last married being deceased); John 
M., born May 20, 1865 (living on the old home 
stead); and Sudie E., born September 22, 1866, 
married, June 30, 1885, to John It. Gamble (she 
has no children). Mrs. Pees is the eldest in a family 
of nine children born to Joseph and Susannah 
( Myers ) Sutman, viz.: Cordelia, Leman ( deceased ), 
Brittie C. (widow of William Stark), John M., 
Aaron (deceased), Hiram, William, Henry and 
Mary (Mrs. Fred Schively). Joseph Sutman died 
November 1, 1880, and his wife October 30, L883. 
He had been a soldier in the Civil war, as were also 
his sons, John M. and Aaron. Hiram ran away and 
enlisted in Pittsburgh, but he was too young, and 
his mother went after him. 

William Pees is a strong Democrat, and takes 
considerable interest in politics. He has served as 
school director four terms, or twelve years; justice 
of the peace ten years; and also as township 
inspector and auditor. In 1880 he was appointed 
postmaster at Kerr's "Station, and held that office 
until 1890. He and his wife have been consistent 



members of the Fairvievv Piesbyteriau Church for 
the last thirty years, and enjoy the respect and 
esteem of a wide circle of friends. He was a leading 
elder, and superintendent of Sabbath-school of 
Fairview a number of years. 



J, AMES CRAWFORD (deceased). Among 
the widely-known and universally esteemed 
citizens of Canonsburg and Peters township, 
none have proven more worthy of love and 
respect than has this gentleman, a trusted and 
honorable business man, a true-hearted Christian 
gentleman. His father, James Crawford, was horn 
in County Down, Ireland, where he was married to' 
Miss Mary Carson, a native of the same place, who 
bore him six children, namely: Hamilton, Marga- 
ret, Mary Ann, James, Ellen ami Francis. Of 
these, James and Mary Ann settled in Pittsburgh, 
Penn., the other four in ( lanada. 

James Crawford, whose name opens this sketch, 
was born about 1812, in County Down, Ireland, 
and came to America with the family. In early 
life he settled in Pittsburgh, Penn., and worked at 
the mason's trade, afterward becoming a contrac- 
tor. He was united in marriage with Esther, 
daughter of John Watson, of Peters township, 
Washington county, and granddaughter of Will- 
iam Watson. The latter emigrated from County 
Down, Ireland, to America, settled in Lancaster 
county, Penn., and later came to Peters township, 
where he purchased a timbered farm, and erected 
a cabin, then returned to Lancaster county for his 
family, cutting a door in the cabin after their arrival. 
It had no floor, and weeds had grown up inside. 
His wife sat on a log nursing John Watson, grand- 
father of Miss Mary Crawford ami Mrs. Jennie 
Wasson. He served in the Revolutionary war, tak- 
ing part in the engagements at Brandywine, Ger- 
raantown and many others. Iff; married Mary 
Edgar, who came from County Down, Ireland, to 
America when yet a little girl, and who bore him 
one son, John. William Watson and his wife 
were truly pioneers. 

John Watson was born in Lancaster county, 
Penn., and came to Peters township, this county, 
with his father when quite young. • He followed 
farming, and in early life married Miss Mray Gib- 
son, of Pigeon Creek, this county, and by her had 
four children: Esther, Mary (Mrs. John Kerr), 
Jane (Mrs. James Kerr, of Pittsburgh), and Wil- 
liam. Esther was born February 24, 1806, and 
her father dying when she was but a child, she 
lived with her grandfather until his death, then re- 
sided with an uncle, James Gibson, of North Stra- 
bane township, Washington county, until her mar- 
riage to James Crawford. 

James Crawford followed the business of con- 
tractor in Pittsburgh, Penn., for seven or eight 



1032 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



years after his marriage, then moved to Canonsburg, 
in order to send their children to the Olome Insti- 
tute. They lived in town eight or ten years, 
finally returning to the farm. In polities Mr. Craw- 
ford was a Republican, and had been offered many 
offices of trust, but for many years declined to 
serve; was finally induced, however, to accept the 
office of burgess of Canonsburg, holding that 
position several terms. He was a member of the 
U. P. Church, in which he was also trustee. ( )n 
June 12, 1877, he died, leaving a wife and two 
daughters to mourn his departure. Mary, the eldest 
daughter, graduated from the seminary at Canons- 
burg, where she is now living. Mrs. Crawford died 
June 30, 1892. Mary owns the homestead, com- 
prising 100 acres of land in Peters township, this 
county, which has been in possession of the family 
over one hundred years. 

Jennie Crawford (sister of Mary and younger 
daughter of James and Esther (Watson ) Crawford, 
in early womanhood was united in marriage with 
Rev. Luke J. Wasson, an earnest and eloquent 
youno- minister of Fairview, and son of Hugh and 
Elizabeth (McQueety) Wasson, who emigrated to 
America. Mrs. Wasson and sister reside in 
Canonsburg. 

Luke J. Wasson was born in October, 1846, in 
County Antrim, Ireland, and was but two years of 
ao-e when his parents settled in Robinson township, 
Washington Co., Penn., where the remainder of 
their lives was passed. He attended the academy 
at Candor, this county, and in 1803 entered 
the junior class of Jefferson College, graduating 
in 1805. He then took a theological course of 
study at the Western Theological Seminary, Alle- 
gheny City, receiving his license to preach in 
1808. He was soon after called to the Presby- 
terian Church at Calcutta, Columbiana Co., Ohio, 
and after preaching there one year, declined to 
accept the call. < >n April 23, 1869, he was or- 
dained by the Presbytery of New Lisbon, and in 
June, 1870, united with the Pittsburgh Presbytery. 
On October 12, of the same year, he became the 
pastor of the Fairview Church. On November 5, 
1868, he married Miss Jane Crawford, whose 
family history is above recorded. Two daughters 
blessed their union: Alice G. and Frances C. In 
April, 1873, Lev. Wasson was released from minis- 
terial duties, and, his health having failed, went 
west to recuperate, but while in Minneapolis he 
died, June 3, IS73. A brief life, as we mortals 
count time, and taken from earth in the very prime 
of early manhood, yet who can say how many years 
of fruitful service were compressed into those few 
months of devoted work. Only Eternity can 
determine if his crown may not have more jewels 
than that of many whose hairs have grown white 
with the burden of many years. One item is 
culled from the many tributes of affection and re- 



spect given by those who knew Rev. Wasson most 
intimately: " As a man he was much respected; as 
a laborer for Christ he was diligent and conse- 
crated; and as a preacher earnest and successful 
among his late parishioners, his character and min- 
istry are held in fond and grateful remembrance." 



L MrATTIIEW RVBURN, a well-known citi- 

\j/| zen of Chartiers township, comes of Scot 
■l I tish ancestry. His grandfather was James 

j -* Ryburn, who was born in York county, 
V Penn., of Scotch parents, lie became a 

soldier in the Revolutionary war, serving from 
April 1, 1777, to April, 1780, when he received an 
honorable discharge; then coming to Washington 
county, Penn., bought a tract of land of one James 
Smith. He was married to Elizabeth Gordon, and 
their union was blessed with four children, namely: 
Matthew, Elizabeth, James and David. The father 
of this family died in 1826, and the mother lived 
with her children for many years afterward. 

Matthew Ryburn (father of subject) was born 
in York county, Penn., and when ten years old 
came with his parents to Washington county. He 
was educated in the subscription schools of Char- 
tiers township, and in early manhood was married 
to Catherine Gordon, daughter of Thomas Gordon, 
of Buffalo township, this county. The young 
couple settled on the farm in Chartiers township 
where the widow of John Ryburn is now living, 
and the following children were born to their union: 
John (deceased December 17, 1SSS, was married to 
Rebecca Thompson, who is living on the old home- 
stead), Elizabeth (living with her brother Mat 
thew), Matthew, Thomas (deceased September 4, 
1851 ), Mary Jane (wife of J. R. Smith, of Canton 
township), Nancy and Catherine, twins (the former 
deceased at the age of eighteen years, the latter 
when nineteen years old ), and James (deceased 1 >e 
oember 9, 1863). The father of this family died 
in 18115, being followed by the mother, in June, 
L884. He was a member of the Whig party. 

James Ryburn, son of James Ryburn, married 
Mary Ann Bigley June 23, 1825. They moved to 
Heyworth, 111., a few years after their marriage. 
John married Rebecca Thompson December 20, 
1801), and the following children were born to them: 
Joseph, John, Katharine, Emma and Matthew. 

Matthew Ryburn, whose name opens this sketch, 
was born September 0, t822,in Chartiers township, 
this county. He was reared on the farm and edu- 
cated in the district schools of Chartiers township, 
afterward learning the cooper and carpenter trades. 
He is an expert cooper, having made twenty bar- 
rels in one day, and has followed various other 
occupations. He owns a good farm of 120 acres, 
and has erected about $5,000 worth of buildings 
upon the place, together with other improvements. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1033 



Mr. Ryburn has achieved success by hard work, 
being now a prosperous business man. He belongs 
to the Republican party, and in religion is a mem- 
ber of the United Presbyterian Church at Cross 
Roads. 



I/SAAC NEWTON CONNETT. Members of 
the Connett family have been important factors 
in the social and material history of Washing- 
-i ton county for nearly a century. The immedi- 
ate subject of this sketch, whose name appears at 
the opening thereof, was born in Morris township 
in 1826. Roth his father, James Connett, and his 
grandfather, whose name was also James, immi- 
grated to Morris township from New Jersey in 
1801. Upon locating in Morris township the 
senior James Connett, grandfather of subject, pur- 
chased what is known as the "Connett farm," six 
months after its entry, located one and one-half 
miles northeast of Prosperity. It is one of the best 
in that section. James Connett, Sr., was a weaver 
by trade, to which he gave his sole attention, and 
at one time he did all the weaving of linen and 
woolen croods in the southern part of the county. 
His death occurred in 1845. 

James Connett, Jr., father of Isaac N., was born 
in 1797, in the town of the nativity of T. I)e Witt 
Talmage — Bainbrook, N. J. He remained with 
his father until about seventeen years of age, re- 
ceiving such an education as the times and sur- 
roundings afforded, which were by no means such 
as are enjoyed at present. After leaving the pater- 
nal roof, young Connett worked about in various 
places at sundry things until 1821, when he married 
Miss Rebecca Cary, a daughter of Henry Cary, who 
had removed to Washington county, from Morris- 
town, N. J., in 1802. Isaac Newton Connett was 
the second in a family of three children born to this 
union. His brothers, Henry and ( Miver, died at the 
ages of four and nineteen, respectively. The father 
died in 1882, and the mother in 1872. 

Educated to practical farm life, Isaac N. Connett 
has made farming his lifetime vocation. His suc- 
cess attests to his energy and practical judgment. 
He has seen Washington county evolve from almost 
a wilderness to its present prosperous state. He 
speaks of hearing his mother tell of how, in the 
days of their early location there, travelers were 
actually compelled to construct their own roads in 
many instances. Mr. Connett was in 1847 united 
in marriage with Lucinda Lindley, of Morris town- 
ship. She is descended from a family of early pio- 
neers, who settled in Washington county as early 
as 1783, the first members having immigrated from 
New Jersey. Her grandfather was one of three 
brothers who were all Revolutionary soldiers, and 
who in later years came to Washington county and 
constructed a fort called Lindley's Fort, near where 



Isaac Connett now resides. This fort was at that 
time the strongest fortification between Wheeling 
(W. Va.) and Brownsville (Penn.). It withstood 
all the attacks of the Indians, the barricades never 
having in any part been broken down. To the 
union of Mr. and Mrs. Connett have been born 
four children, all of whom are living, viz.: Flora 
Samantha, who married, in 1868, S. B. McVay, of 
Morris township; Hannah Rebecca, married, in 1872, 
to Joseph Shafer, of Knox county, Ohio, where 
they now reside; Sarah Cordelia, married, in 1879, 
to Wiley Parkinson, of Greene county, Penn. (.Mr. 
Parkinson died in 188"), and Mrs. Parkinson now 
resides with her parents); Clara Bethany, the 
youngest, was married, in 1884, 'to Joshua Heironi- 
mous, of Madison county, Ohio (Mr. and Mrs. 
Heironimous now reside at Plymouth, Iowa, where 
he is telegraph operator in the office of the Chicago, 
Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad, which position he 
has held a number of years). Prior to 1884 Mr. 
Connett was allied with the Republican party, 
since which time he has given his influence and 
support to the Prohibition cause. In the sense of 
an office-seeker he is not a politician, though he 
takes an active interest in matters pertaining to 
the welfare of his county and community. A con- 
tinuous residence of fifty-eight years at the same 
place has proven him worthy of the esteem in which 
he is held. 



JfOHN E. SPHAR. The Sphar family have 
I been identified with the history of Wash- 
I ington county for many years. Mat- 
tern Spnar was born in Switzerland, and, in 
company with two brothers and one sister, immi- 
grated to America at the age of seventeen years, 
about the year 1760. He first settled in Williams- 
burg, Va., and on April 21, 1767, took the oath of 
allegiance under Queen Anne. He was there 
married to Margaret Shively, and in 1780 came to 
Washington county, Penn., and purchased of one 
Colonel Cooke 200 acres of land on the Mononga- 
hela river, in what is now Washington county. He 
took an active part in the Whiskey Insurrection, 
and was a soldier in the war of 1812. He died 
about the year 1822, leaving three children, namely: 
John, Mattern (who moved to Adams county, Ohio, 
thence to Indiana), and Henry (who lived in this 
county). 

John Sphar was born in 1777, in Loudoun 
county, Va., and when but three years of age came 
with his parents to Washington county, Penn. He 
received a subscription-school education in Allen 
township, and when a young man was married to 
Susanna Redd, a native of Washington county, 
and reared the following children: Mary, wife of 
John Shively, Guernsey county, Ohio; Jacob was 
first married to Susan Wood, who died, and he was 



L034 



WASHING TON CO UN ft. 



then married to Charlotte Wilson; Elizabeth, wife 
of Joseph Dunlevy; Daniel, married to Mary Speer, 
and lived in Kentucky; Ann, wife of William 
Spah, of Indiana; Barbara, wife of William Hol- 
lingshead; Mattern, married to Margaret Coyle, of 
Ohio; Sarah, widow of Joseph Peazell, Allen town- 
ship; Rachel, married to Robert Gailey, Clarion 
county, Penn.; John, married to Lucy Ann Scott, 
and Henry. Of this family, three are yet living: 
Sarah, John and Henry. The father voted with 
the Whig and Republican parties, and served as 
supervisor of the township. He and his wife were 
members of the Baptist Church. He died in 1850, 
having been preceded by his wife and mother in 
1852. 

John Sphar was born February 26, 1817, on the 
old place in Allen township, Washington county, 
Pennsylvania. In 1839 he was united in marriage 
with Lucy Ann Scott, daughter of Parker and 
Sarah (Carson) Scott, all of whom were natives of 
Fallowheld township. Her parents had twelve 
daughters, of whom Mrs. Sphar is the only one yet 
living. Mr. Sphar owns seventy-five acres of the 
old homestead, where he has followed general farm- 
ing. He cast a vote for William Henry Harrison, 
and since the organization of the Republican party 
has been an earnest supporter of that faction, hav- 
ing served as a member of the school board and 
also as supervisor. He is no less interested in 
religious than in political movements, having been 
licensed as an exhorter and class leader in the 
Ebenezer M. E. ( 'hurch, with which his wife is also 
identified. The children of this influential family 
are as follows: Sarah, wife of William Rogers, of 
Fallowheld township; Parker S.; Henry, married 
to a Miss McElhaney, of Armstrong county, Penn.; 
James, deceased in his twenty-sixth year; John E.; 
Susanna, widow of Fphraim McKee; Gertrude, 
married to J. H. Redd, and Wesley, deceased at 
the age of nineteen years. 

John E. Sphar, the fourth son of John and Lucy 
Ann (Scott) Sphar, was born December 27, 1849, 
in Allen township, this county. He received a 
district-school education, then attended one term 
at the college at California, this county. After 
leaving school he began to follow farming, and on 
( (ctober 29, 1872, was married to Sarah Jane, 
daughter of Cornelius and Harriet (Phillips) 
McKenna. They were early settlers of Allen 
township, this county, where their daughter, Sarah 
Jane, was born. They moved to Ohio, but in the 
spring of 1873 Mr. and Mrs. Sphar settled on the 
homestead farm in Allen township, where they now 
are livino-. He is an ardent Republican. He 
assisted his father on the farm till L887, when he 
became owner <>f part of the farm. While he was 
thus engaged, foreseeing in the near future the 
development of the coal lands for which the Mon- 
oncrahela Valley is noted, he turned his spare time 



to reading surveying. After some practice in land 
surveying and town plats, he was called to con- 
struct maps of coal fields. He drew the first map 
of the coal field that is now known as the Red 
Bird mine. Then followed the mapping of the 
extensive field now owned by the Laughlins, known 
by the name of Vesta Coal Mines. He also located 
the main gas line from the famous Parson Well in 
the Maple Creek gas field; then carved out and 
optioned some coal land for which he found ready 
sale, besides doing much other work, being the only 
surveyor in Allen township. Pie is a member of 
the Mt. Tabor M. E. Church and secretary of the 
Sabbath-school. The following- children havecom- 
pleted the family circle: Clark Herbert, at the age 
of nineteen is wire chief in the main office of the 
Western Union Telegraph Company, in Chicago; 
Nellie Ethel, Rena Maud, Kldora Belle, Gertrude, 
Lawrence Garfield, Jennie May, Evangeline, John 
McKenna, Russell Harrison, and Bessie Inez. 
Parker S. married a Miss Dunlevy, daughter of 
Andrew Dunlevy, of Washington county. 



Fl< NDREW BORLAND, a representative of 
I l\ one of the oldest families of Peters town- 
/p^\ ship, was born November 12, L793, in that 
J -* locality. He grew to manhood on the 
v home farm in Peters township, and when a 

young man, March 3, 1825, was married to Eliza- 
beth, daughter of Alexander McClure, a native of 
Ireland. They were the parents of the following 
named children: Alexander Mc. Borland, Mary 
(Mrs. Thomas McClelland), Rebecca ( Mrs. Arthur 
Hopper), .Margaret A. (Mrs. John Bell), Elizabeth 
I Mrs. J. R. McClure), Sarah J. (Mrs. John Wat- 
son), Andrew J., Catherine (Mrs. R. I). Henry), 
Rachel, Martha W. and James L. Borland. Of 
these children, Rebecca, Catherine, Martha and 
Rachel are deceased. Mr. Borland passed the 
first years of his married life in Peters township, 
Washington county, and afterward made a perma- 
nent home in South Strabane township, lie was a 
successful business man, and took an active inter- 
est in all public enterprises or charities which were 
worthy of his aid. In politics he was a stanch 
1 )emocrat, and was frequently elected to county 
offices by his party. In religious faith he was a 
leading member of the United Presbyterian 
Church. He died July IS, I860, on the farm now 
owned by A. J. and J. L. Borland, and was 
mourned by a large circle of friends. 

Andrew and James Borland were born on the 
home farm in Peters township, Washington county, 
and received a common-school education. In early 
youth they assumed the management of the home 
place in South Strabane, which they still own, 
transacting all business together. They are among 
the leading men of the township, and enjoy the 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1035 



esteem of all who know them. They have never 
married, and a sister, Margaret A., and her daugh- 
ter, Mary M. Bell, attend to the household duties. 
They have au excellent farm, and deal largely in 
stock. Both of the brothers are active workers in 
the Democratic party, of which they are members. 
The Borland family were among the organizers of 
the United Presbyterian Church at Peters Creek, 
and the brothers contributed liberally to the sup- 
port of the Pigeon Creek U. P. Church, of which 
they are members. 



IT LBERT ZELT. Jacob Zelt was a native 

1/ \\ of Bremen, Germany, where the family 
f~"Y\ were engaged in agricultural pursuits. 
Jl -j But after many years of faithful toil in the 
land of his birth, the father at last came to 
the conclusion that success could be more easily 
won in newer fields, where there was less compe- 
tition and more freedom. No sooner was this de- 
cision made than his eyes turned to that Mecca of 
all oppressed children of the world — America — 
and in 1838 he emigrated to this the " Land of 
Promise." 

The long and perilous journey was made in a 
sailing vessel, and, did space permit, we might tell 
of weeks of danger and suspense, ere the travelers 
arrived in safety at their destination. Jacob Zelt 
was then a boy of eighteen, and soon after the ar- 
rival of the family in America he went to Vir- 
ginia, where he was employed upon the public 
works for some time, and then came to Pittsburgh, 
Penn. After a year's residence there, he removed 
with his family to Washington county, Penn., 
where he passed the remainder of his life. In 
1842, in Pittsburgh, Penn., he was married to 
Mary Bartz, and this union was blessed with the 
following children: William, John, Jacob, Lewis, 
Adam, Prank, Henry, Albert, Mary ( Mrs. William 
Hartman) and Ella (Mrs. Douglas McMurray). 
Politically, Mr. Zelt was a Democrat, and an active 
worker in his party. He was a member of the 
Lutheran Church, giving it a liberal financial sup- 
port. Beginning life for himself when a mere 
boy, with neither friends nor'money and' a stranger 
in a foreign laud, Mr. Zelt was in every sense of 
the term a self-made man, and his success in busi- 
ness, achieved as it was in the face of so many ob- 
stacles, should serve as a strong incentive to all 
struggling young men. Mr. Zelt passed from the 
scene of his labors May 10, 1882, to join the wife 
who had preceded him to the dark valley on Feb- 
ruary 15, 1879. 

Albert Zelt, the subject proper of this memoir, 
was born December 7, I860, in Washington, this 
county, where he has passed his entire life, and 
received his education at the schools of the 
borough. On June '23, 1884, he was married to 



Elizabeth, daughter of Lewis Fleming, of Alle- 
gheny county, Penn., and the children born to 
them are John, born in March, 1886; Mary, born 
in December, 18S9, and Harry, born in May, 1891. 
Mr. Zelt has always been an enthusiastic advocate 
of Democratic principles. He is a member of the 
Presbyterian Church. He and his brother are the 
proprietors of a mill which they purchased in 1887, 
and since they have assumed the management of 
the property it has been much improved in many 
ways. The present owners employ all the latest 
improved machinery, and have doubled the capacity 
of the mill, which was found to be essential in 
order to supply their customers, as their work is 
famous for its excellent quality. They are an en- 
terprising and progressive firm, and enjoy the con- 
fidence and respect of the entire community. 



T\i II. ALLISON, a prominent farmer and 
I / 1\ stock raiser of Chartiers township, is a 
fj^Yi native of the same, having been born here 
Jl —^ November 21, 1828, a son of Hugh and 
Jane (Gabby) Allison, also natives of Wash- 
ington county. 

John and Jane (Brownlee) Allison, grandparents 
of subject, were natives of the Highlands of Scot- 
land, emigrating to Washington county, Penn., in 
1768. On April 5,1786, they obtained a patent 
for 415 acres of land, and settled on the same, 
cultivating and adding to it until they had 640 
acres. They were the parents of nine children, 
eight sons (all of whom died in Washington county, 
except Gavin, who died in Butler county, Penn.) 
and one daughter. They were as follows: John, 
deceased in 1804; Gavin, deceased; Archibald, de- 
ceased in 1835; William, deceased in 1764; James, 
deceased in 1810; Thomas, deceased in 1840; 
Ebenezer, deceased in 1812; Hugh, deceased in 
lN3:j, and Jane. The father of this family died 
in March, 17 ( J0, in Washington county; his widow 
survived him several years. 

Hugh Allison, the father of subject, was born in 
1773, in Washington county, Perm., on the farm in 
Chartiers township, and was reared to farm life. 
In 1791 he was married to Miss Jane Irwin, a 
native of this county, who bore him one child, 
Jane, who became the wife of George Morrison, 
and died in 1871, in Mattoon, Coles Co., 111., leav- 
ing seven children. Mrs. Allison died in Wash- 
ington county in 1795, and in 1798 Mr. Allison was 
married to Miss Jane Brownlee, a native of Wash- 
ington county, who died in 1802, the mother of 
two children: Eliza, who married William Scott, 
and afterward moved to Guernsey county, Ohio, 
where she died, leaving seven children; and Ammi, 
who died in Washington county at the age of four- 
teen. In 1804 Mr. Allison was again married, this 
time to Miss Rebecca McBride, of this county. To 



1036 



WASHINGTON < OUNTY. 



this union were born the following children: 
Maria, who became the wife of Hugh Lee, and 
moved to Henderson county, 111., where she died; 
Rebecca, wife of John C. Hanna, died in Washing- 
ton county, the mother of four children; Hugh 
and James, both deceased in infancy; John, mar- 
ried three times ( he moved to Henderson county, 
111., and died there, leaving a large family); 
Thomas, moved to Henderson county, 111., and mar- 
ried a Miss Graham (his death occurred in 1869, in 
Illinois); and one that died in infancy. The 
mother of this family died in 1818. In 1820 Mr. 
Allison married Miss .fane Gabby, a native of 
Washington county, daughter of James and Janet 
(lirownlee) Gabby, natives of Maryland, who 
came in an early day from Chambersburgh to 
Washington county, where they died. To Huorh 
and Jane (Gabby) Allison were born eight children, 
as follows: Jane G., born June 11, 1822, married 
to Joseph McNary, and residing in Chartiers town- 
ship, this county (they have nine children); James 
G., born Septemoer 18, 1824, married to Mary 
Gabby, and now residing in Nuckolls county, Neb. 
( he had a family of ten children, eig-ht of whom 
are now living ) ; M-irgaret, born March 11, 1826, 
widow of E. K. Rogers, residing in Washington 
county (she has six children ); Archibald H; Hugh 
Brownlee, born April 20, 1830, first married to Mary 
Jane Gabby, and they had five children, but one of 
whom is living (his second wife was Mrs. Oakison; 
he moved to 1 )es Moines, Iowa, where he is now 
residing); one' that died in infancy; Anna Hender- 
son, born June 27, 1833; and Ebenezer, born Au- 
gust 12, 1835, married in 1873 to Orpha Jane 
Hayes, and residing on a part of the old homestead. 
Mr. Allison was a man of robust health. He was 
an active worker in the United Presbyterian 
Church, and was chosen elder at the age of about 
twenty years. He attended all the synods and 
meetings of the Presbytery, and was present at 
the meeting that made slavery a question of com- 
munion; he was also an ardent advocate of the 
temperance cause. He was commissioned major 
in the State Militia. He was a Whiff, active in 
politics, and held several offices of public trust in 
the township. He died in Washington county 
September 3, 1853, his wife surviving him until 
December 14, 1870. 

Archibald II. Allison was reared on the home 
farm, and received his education in the district 
schools of the county. For a while he taught 
school in Washington county, and studied under 
private teachers, but his life work has been agri- 
culture. Mr. Allison has made many improve- 
ments on the farm upon which he now resides. It 
consists of 125 acres of good land, in a tine state 
of cultivation, upon which he has built a substan- 
tiil dwelling house and barn. Politically, Mr. Al- 
lison is an active Republican, ai)4 has held various 



offices of trust in Chartiers township. He was in 
the convention that opposed " Know-Nothingism" 
in the county; is active in all that pertains to the 
public welfare, and is a prominent, enterprising 
man. 



J | AMES HANNA was born October 3, 1831), in 
Washington county, Penn., a son of Hugh 
] Hanna, who was born June 14, 1798. On 
March 31, 1825, Hugh Hanna was united in 
marriage with Dorothy Whitely, who was born 
May 22, 1801, and to their union were born eight 
children. The father died June 8, 1842, and the 
mother passed away June 11, 1858, and was buried 
in Brush Run cemetery. 

James Hanna passed his early life at home, and 
at the age di seventeen years began to learn 
cabinet making, but abandoning this for the car- 
penter's trade, continued to follow the latter voca- 
tion until 1877. On September 1, 1870, he made 
choice of a bride in the person of Catherine, daugh- 
ter of George and Jane (McMahon) Johnston. 
To the union of James and Catherine Hanna the 
following children have been born: Hugh Willard 
(a school teacher), Mary Jane, George Johnston, 
and two that died in infancy. In 1868 Mr. Hanna 
bought sixty- four acres of land in North Strabane 
township, and to the original tract he has added 
thirty acres, which makes a very pleasant home. 
The family attend the Chartiers Presbyterian 
Church. 




ALTER DENNY, a son of Robert, and 
and grandson of Walter Denny, is one of 
the well-known and most highly esteemed 
citizens of his township. His grandfather 
was born in the year 1750, east of the mountains, 
and followed the occupations of a farmer and mil- 
ler. He was there married to Esther Maxwell, and 
in the year 1788 came to Washington county, lo- 
cating near Canonsburg. After several years he 
moved to a farm near Washington borough, where 
he passed the remainder of his life, and reared the 
following children: Catherine, Martha, Margaret, 
Esther, Eleanor, James, Robert and Walter, all of 
whom lived to an adult age. Mr. Denny died in 
the year 1802, and was followed by his wife in the 
year 1843. 

Robert Denny was born in the year 187ji, east of 
the mountains, and when but a child came with his 
parents to Washington county. He received his 
education at the rate schools, and in the year ISM, 
was united in marriage to Lydia (who was born in 
1795), daughter of James McMannis, and their 
children were Walter, Anne (Mrs. J. C. Sloan, of 
Hopewell township), Esther, , Fames, Robert, Eliza- 
betb (these four are deceased.), WiUiftB) ami ( 'ath.e' 



WASHINGTON COCW'TY. 



1037 



rine (twins, the former living in Kansas, and the 
latter, Mrs. Work, of Buffalo township), and Lydia 
(widow of Alexander Work, of Harrison county, 
Ohio). After his marriage Mr. Denny located one 
mile and a half north of Washington borough, in 
South Strabane township. He then moved to 
Chartiers township, and there continued farming 
until his death, which occurred in the year 1832. 
His widow followed him in 1853. Politically he 
was a Democrat, and in religious connection a 
member of the Associate Reformed Church. 

Walter Denny was born April 30, 1816, in South 
Strabane township, this county. He assisted his 
father on the farm, and received his education in 
the usual log schoolhouse. In the year 1842 he 
was married to Mary (who was born February 28, 
1822), daughter of John Welch, of Chartiers town- 
ship. The children born to them were as follows: 
Mary Jane (Mrs. Samuel Leper, of Beaver county, 
Penn.); Elizabeth Ann (wife of John Wilson, super- 
intendent of the County Home); Margaret L. (Mrs. 
J. G. Hanna) ; Sarah L. (deceased in infancy) ; Sarah 
E. (deceased); Robert X. (deceased in infancy); 
John W. and Laura (Mrs. William Patterson, of 
Hopewell township) (twins); Samuel T. (a farmer 
of Hopewell township); Alice (Mrs. Marion Lig- 
gett, of Donegal township); Agnes; Cora (Mrs. 
Robert Buchanan); and Martha ( living at home). 
After his marriage Mr. Denny first located in South 
Strabane township, and in the year 1849 went to 
Hopewell township, moving in 1875 to his present 
home, which is situated about one mile and a half 
west of West Middletown, near the boundary line of 
Hopewell and Independence townships. Mr. Denny 
has always been a farmer, but of late years has been 
enjoying a comparatively retired life in his elegant 
home. Politically he was originally a Whig, and 
a strong Abolitionist, then a Democrat, afterward 
a Republican, and now a Prohibitionist. He has 
never been bound closely to party lines, but has 
voted according to the dictates of his own judg- 
ment, and held various township" offices. He and 
his wife are members of the U. P. Church at West 
Middletown. 



J (AMES PRIGG, now retired from active work, 
is a worthy representative of a family long 
and favorably known in Canton township, of 
which he is a native, having been born in 
1822, a son of Samuel Prigg, a sketch of whom 
appears in that of William Prigg, elsewhere. Our 
subject was reared to farm life almost from the 
cradle, and in his boyhood, during a few weeks in 
the winter time, attended the subscription schools, 
which were situated at a great distance from his 
home; and although his educational advantages 
were extremely limited, yet his opportunites for 
le&rning in the sphgol of practical life were abun- 



dant. At an early day Mr. Prigg commenced life 
for himself as an agriculturist, and with the aid of 
his faithful wife he has met with well-merited suc- 
cess, being now the owner of 250 acres of well- 
improved land, besides a fine dwelling house in the 
borough of Washington, whither he and his wife 
moved in 1885, and where they are now living re- 
tired, enjoying the fruits of their industry. 

On September 9, 1852, James Prigg was united 
in marriage with Nancy G, daughter of Joseph and 
Nancy Mountz, of this county, and the children 
born to them were: Ellen A. (deceased), Oliver J. 
and Laura (Mrs. John H. Wilson). The family 
are all Presbyterians and prominent in church mat- 
ters. Politically, Mr. Prigg has been a lifelong 
Democrat, and has ever manifested a deep interest 
in the welfare of his township and county, where he 
is recognized as a leader in the community. 




.pjNOCH D. PRIGG, one of the best-known 
native-born farmers of the county, is a son 
of Samuel and Hetty (Day) Prigg. He 
was born November 11, 1817, in Canton 
township, and from very early life experienced little 
else than hard work on his father's farm, varied occa- 
sionally during the winter season by a few weeks' 
attendance at the nearest subscription school, to 
reach which entailed a long journey through the 
deep snow, often in the teeth of a piercing wind. 
The schoolhouse was an old log cabin, the floor 
made of puncheons, seats of undressed slabs sup- 
ported by wooden pegs, while the writing desk was 
simply a slab extending across the room, and placed 
so high that the younger scholars could scarcely 
reach it. The fireplace was a huge affair at one 
end of the room, the generous fire being replen- 
ished by the older students usually during the noon 
hour. The other medium for keeping the boys 
" warm," the indispensable " birch," was under the 
immediate care of the dreaded dominie himself, 
who considerately kept it in a condition of chronic 
"pickle." Leaving school at an early age, our 
subject commenced his life-work in earnest, but 
true to his filial instincts remained at home with his 
parents, until his assistance was no longer necessary. 
He then, in company with his brother William, 
purchased a farm, which they worked on shares 
and greatly improved, until they bought another 
tract, when they divided their property, the old 
home place falling to Enoch's share. 

In June, 1858, Mr. Prigg married Matilda M., 
daughter of Andrew and Elizabeth M. Daniels, and 
the children born to them are: Andrew, who mar- 
ried Miss Thomasene Elwood; Sarah (Mrs. Charles 
Taylor); Belle (Mrs. Elmer Longdon); Lottie (Mrs. 
James Lacock ), and Morgan. Mr. Prigg owns 385 
acres of land in Canton township, and is a member 
of a company owning large areas in the ( ' Sunny 



1038 



WASHINGTON COC'XTY. 



South." In politics he has always been an enthu- 
siastic Democrat, but in county and township elec- 
tions votes for those whom he thinks will best serve 
the people, irrespective of party considerations, 
lie is a liberal and useful citizen, one who unaided 
has made his own success. 

When a small boy Enoch frequently accompanied 
his father across the mountains, assisting him to the 
Kiltimore market, whither he went to sell horses, 
he being a large dealer for those early times, and 
at the same mart Enoch witnessed the sale of negro 
slaves. 



ENJAMIN FARABEE. Foremost among 
the successful farmers of Morris township, 
Ij Washington county, stands our subject. He 
is a self made man in every particular, hav- 
ing acquired the wealth he now possesses by indus- 
try and strict integrity. 

Benjamin Farabee is a son of Thomas Farabee, 
whose parents emigrated to this country from En- 
gland in the early part of 1700, settling in Bucks 
county, Penn. Thomas Farabee had hve brothers 
and one sister. Their names were as follows: 
Joseph, John, Samuel, George, Benjamin and Jane. 
The last named brother and sister settled in South 
Carolina, where they died. Thomas Farabee mar- 
ried, in Bucks county, Jane Coffey, a native of that 
county. He, being attracted with the fertile hills 
and valleys of Washington county, emigrated 
thither with his four brothers, at about the same 
time (being about the year 1800), each purchasing 
land, Thomas owning what now forms a part of the 
immense tract of our subject. The wife of Thomas 
Farabee died in 1836 at the age of fifty-six, and 
Thomas Farabee died in 1849, aged seventy-six 
years. To their union were born the following 
children: Jane (Mrs. Stephen Craft), Mary ( Mrs. 
Charles Bogue), Sarah (Mrs. Daniel Robison ), 
William ( who died in Athens county, Ohio), Stacy 
1). (in Washington county, Penn.), Samuel D. (in 
Missouri), Thomas 1). (in Washington county, 
Penn.), Nancy (Mrs. Mr. Doddridge), and Benja- 
min, the only member of the family now living. 
Mrs. Bogue had three children; Mrs. Robison nine; 
William eight; and two of the hitter's sons — Spen- 
cer and Thomas — are practicing physicians in < >hio; 
Stacy D. had three children, as had also Mrs. Dod- 
dridge; Samuel 1). had three children, one son — 
Harvey — who was a valiant soldier and officer in 
the Civil war, serving as captain and major, re- 
turning home al the close of the struggle. Benja- 
min Farabee was born in 1822, and was first mar- 
ried to Phcebe I'ay in 1842, who died in 1849 
without issue. In 18">t5 he married Margaret Mc- 
Kerrihan (Bane), a good Christian woman and an 
earnest church worker, who died March 10, L889, 
aged fifty-eight years. Mr. Farabee afterward mar- 



ried, on March 18, 1891, his present wife, an esti- 
mable and refined Christian lady, Miss Mary E. 
I mlay, daughter of John F. Imlay, of East Pike 
Run township, Washington county. 

Mr. Farabee has been variously connected in 
church relations, having been a class-leader, and 
teacher in the Sunday-school for more than twenty- 
eight years, and superintendent a part of that time, 
and is at the present time teacher of a Bible class, 
also holding the office of steward and trustee. The 
Mount Zion M. E. Church has the liberal support 
of Mr. Farabee in the way of contribution to all its 
various demands. He is a true and loyal friend to 
the Church of his choice, and is appreciated as a 
useful, intelligent and pious citizen in the com- 
munity in which he lives. His health has been 
somewhat impaired by an attack of la grippe a few 
years ago, which necessitates his comparative re- 
tirement from active farm work. Politically he has 
been a lifelong Republican. 



JOHN H. VAN KIRK is a representative of 
the family of that name in franklin township. 
His grandfather, Joseph Van Kirk ( 1 ), was a 
native of the State of New Jersey, which had 
long been the home of his ancestors, but in early 
youth he came to Pennsylvania, and located in 
what is now South Franklin township, Washington 
county. Joseph Van Kirk ( 1 ) was united in mar- 
riage with a Miss Beabout, and there were born to 
them the following children: Eben, Reuben, Osee, 
Sarah, Christina and Joseph (2). Mr. Van Kirk 
passed the greater part of his married life on the 
farm, but some years before his death he sold his 
f-irin, and with all his family except his son, 
Joseph (2), removed to Wayne county, Ohio, 
which in those days (18~4) was considered the 
'Far West." 

Joseph Van Kirk (2) was born April 14, 1M>7. 
His early life was spent on the farm, consequently 
he had but limited means and opportunities for an 
education. In 1825 he was married to Nancy 
1 1 agerty, and there were born to them four children, 
all of whom died in childhood except Christina. 
She lived to womanhood, and was married to Colin 
Dickerson, but about one year after she died, 
]<'<i\ ing one son, Joseph Dickerson, who now resides 
in Champaign county, 111. Mr. Van Kirk was mar- 
ried (the second time) May 11, 1837, to Martha 
Adams, who was born May 11, 1805, and to this 
union there came four children, viz.: Joseph A. 
( sketch of whom appears further on); Sarah Mar- 
garet, born March 2 I, 1X4'-'; John H. (of whom a 
brief sketch follows ); Mary Ellen, born February 
14, ISIS, died in 1ST>4. Of these, Sarah Margaret 
was married to 'Silas Tharp, of Amwell township, 
Washington Co., Penn., December 4, IS";'. Joseph 
Van Kirk had, as already intimated, but a limited 





^ 



^cP -3 1st., 0t VrUy?^/ SC^-fr 



WASHINGTON COUXTY 



1041 



education, but by diligent use of such means as 
were at his command, he succeeded in fitting himself 
for all the numerous duties which devolved upon 
him from time to time. Possessed of a good 
memory, and a taste for reading, he was well- 
informed and well up with the times in which he 
lived, always ready to give aid in money or influ- 
ence for the promotion of improvements for the 
public good. He was a shareholder in the first 
railroad built in the county, know as the "Hemp- 
field Railroad," and also in the (Jhartiers Valley 
Railroad, and was a stanch supporter and share- 
holder of the Upper Ten-Mile Plank Road Co., 
which he served for many years as manager, and 
for several years occupied the position of president 
of the company. He was frequently called to 
serve his fellow-citizens in different offices in his 
township, all of which duties he performed with 
conscientious fidelity. In religion he was a Pres- 
byterian, uniting with the Church of East Buffalo 
in 1833, soon after which he was chosen to the 
office of ruling elder, a position he filled acceptably 
until the close of the pastorate of Rev. William P. 
Aldrich; he afterward united with the Second 
Presbyterian Church of Washington, Penn., and 
was a member of this church at the time of his 
death, which occurred May 8, 1870; his funeral 
service was conducted by his pastor, Rev. Henry 
Woods, 1). 13. Having no capital to begin business 
save willing hands and a strong will, he nevertheless 
succeeded in securing a competence, which enabled 
him to spend his last years in comfort and content- 
ment. His first land purchase adjoined the farm 
formerly belonging to his father,and here he built his 
home, and lived until he was called to his final rest. 

John H. Van Kirk was born on the home farm in 
South Franklin township, Washington I 'o., Penn., 
July 12, 1844. On November 21, 1872, he was 
united in marriage with Miss Margaret J. Xoble, a 
resident of Buffalo township, Washington county, 
and they have had five children, as follows: One, a 
daughter, born February 2, 1876, died in infancy; 
Mary V., born February 10, 1877; Robert N., born 
December 17, 1878; Mattie Bell, born March 24, 
1881, and Sarah Margaret, born March 17, 1884. 

Joseph A. Van Kibe was born August 29, 1840, 
on the home farm in South Franklin township. 
His youth was here passed, and in attending the 
common schools, until he attained his majority. 
On October 22, 1863, he was married to Sarah E. 
Van Kirk, who was born October 14, 1842, a 
daughter of Captain Joseph Van Kirk, of Amwell 
township, Washington county. 

After marriage they settled on a portion of the 
farm, where they continued to reside and where 
the following children were born to them: Clarence 
B., December 20, L865; I iharles, October 29, 1869, 
and Joseph B., August 29, 1871. Mr. Van Kirk 
was welj-jqformed in the current topics of the day, 



he was an ardent worker in the ranks of the Demo- 
cratic party, and was chosen at different times to 
fill positions to which he was elected; in religious 
belief he was a Presbyterian, having united with 
the church of East Buffalo in his youth, but after- 
ward transferred his membership to the Second 
Presbyterian Church of Washington, Penn., of 
which he was a member at the time of his death, 
which occurred April 14, 1883. 



JfOSEPH ADAMS was born in Ireland, May 
27, 1770, and died June 2, 1832. He was 
J married in 1793 to Martha Moore, who was 
born November 12, 1768, and died Septem- 
ber 29, 1828. There were born to them five sons 
and three daughters: the sons were James, Will- 
iam, Robert, John and Joseph, all of whom removed 
to Perry county, Ohio, after the death of their 
parents, and none of them are now living except 
Joseph, who removed to Sigourney, Keokuk Co., 
Iowa; the daughters were Margaret, Mary and 
Martha, of whom, Margaret was married to Samuel 
Mustard, and to them were born nine children, 
four sons and five daughters. The sons are now 
all dead; the youngest was a prominent minister of 
the United Presbyterian Church, and died in Wal- 
ton, Kans., in August, 1890; two daughters, Mar- 
garet G. and Esther Jane, still in Claysville., Wash- 
ington county, and are esteemed for their social- 
qualities and upright Christian characters. Mary 
Adams was married to John Dickerson, and to 
them were born two children: Margaret and Johsua; 
Margaret died in early womanhood, while Joshua 
is living in South Franklin township, Washington 
county, one of its respected citizens. Martha Adams 
was married to Joseph Van Kirk, May 11, 1837. 

Joseph Adams and his wife, Martha Moore, came 
from Ireland in the same ship, but did not know 
each other until after they arrived in America, al- 
though the vessel was thirteen weeks making the 
voyage. They were Presbyterians, and members 
of the Church of Upper Buffalo at the time of the 
pastorate oE Dr. Anderson. Their children were 
early in life instructed in the doctrines of their re- 
ligion, and some of them were able to ask and an- 
swer every question in the Shorter Catechism 
without the aid of a book. These early impressions 
were so stamped on their memories that it bore 
much fruit during their lives, as they all possessed 
a high regard for truth and morality, and with 
them carried an influence for all that was good and 
pure; in fact, their religion was to them their com- 
fort through life and triumph in death. Joseph 
and Martha Adams settled in Buffalo township, 
Washington county, where they spent their re- 
maining years, and after death their bodies were 
laid to rest in the cemetery of Upper Buffalo, 
Washington coijnty, Pennsylvania- 



1042 



WAS EING TO N COl XTY. 



I < >HN V. HAXNA, a worthy and honored rep- 
resentative of one of the oldest families of 
t J Washington county, is a native of the same, 
^^ having been born January 6, L829, in Morris 
township. 

His grandfather had come to the county at a 
very early day, married, reared a family, and died 
after a long life of usefulness as a pioneei farmer. 
His children were John V ., Hugh, James, Kleanor, 
Martha and Nancy. Of these, James was brought 
up from boyhood to agricultural pursuits, his edu- 
cation being received at the common schools. 
When a young man he served a full apprenticeship 
to the trade of wheelwright, which he afterward 
followed in his own and neighboring counties. 
Soon after finishing his apprenticeship he was 
married to Phoebe, daugher of Benjamin Day, and 
the results of this union were the following named 
children: Benjamin A. (who died in Washington 
county), Hugh (died June, 1892, in Carroll county, 
Ohio), Rebecca, John V. (the only one of the 
family now living), Samuel and James M. (the 
latter deceased in Washington county in 1S72). 
James Hanna removed to Carrollton, Ohio, where 
he followed his trade many years and died. His 
widow afterward returned to Washington county, 
having in the meantime been married to Joseph 
Weir. She died in the fall of 1881. Mr. Hanna 
was a member of the Presbyterian Church. 

The youth of our subject was passed on the 
home place of his stepfather, with whom he re- 
mained until old enough to start out in life for 
himself (which he did at an early age), his edu- 
cation being secured at the common schools, which 
he attended a few months each year. He com- 
menced life as a hired man on the farm, and by 
hard work and economical habits finally succeeded 
in purchasing a portion of the home place, thus 
step by step plodding on until now he is one of 
the solid men of his township; he has resided on 
his present place eighteen years. Mr. Hanna en- 
listed August 16, 18(52, in Company K, Sixteenth 
Pennsylvania Cavalry, and served three years, being 
discharged in June, lSfio. Politically Mr. Hanna 
has always been a strong Democrat, and has held 
various townshiD offices; in religious faith he is a 
liberal supporter of the Presbyterian Church. 



ff ff ENRV CAIN, an old and successful farmer 
|»- A of Donegal township, is a son of Thomas 
Cain and grandson of John Cain, the latter 
II -* of whom, a native of Ireland, in early man- 
v hood immigrated to America, locating in 

Maryland, where he was united in marriage with 
Mary Means. About the year 1785 he came to 
Greene county, Penn., where brothers of his wife 
had located a year or two before. Here the fol- 
lowing children were born to him: Thomas, Dennis, 



John, Nancy, Mary, Klizabeth and Catherine, all 
now deceased. John Cain, the father of this fam- 
ily, was among the early pioneers of Greene 
county, and shared the hardships and dangers of 
frontier life. He died about 1830, and his widow 
then returned to her native Maryland, passing the 
remainder of her life among her relatives. 

Thomas Cain, the eldest in the above-mentioned 
family, was born in 1784, in Maryland, and, when 
a young child, was brought by his parents to 
Greene county, Penn. Almost every farmer oper- 
ated a distillery in those days, and the youth of 
Thomas was passed in assisting in that work, and 
in the farm duties. He was naturally an apt and 
intelligent boy, and his meager educational oppor- 
tunities were thus supplemented; he was also a 
mechanical genius, and made good use of almost any 
tool. In 1 812 he was married to Mary Montague, 
who was born in 17S4, a daughter of Henry and 
Rosanna Montague, who left County Tyrone, Ire- 
land, in 1792, and after a stormy voyage of eleven 
weeks and three days, landed at New Castle, Del. 
They first located in eastern Pennsylvania, and 
soon afterward began the long journey to Ken- 
tucky, of which State they had heard so many 
glowing descriptions. But the severe winter of 
1793 set in when the travelers had reached Wash- 
ington county, so they concluded to remain there 
till spring, and made a temporary stop in Canton 
township. During this interval they met an old 
frontiersman who had been in Kentucky, and 
knowing the hostile disposition of the Indians at 
that time, he advised this family to remain in Penn- 
sylvania. Mr. Montague took the advice, and pro- 
ceeding a few miles farther west, made a permanent 
home in Donegal township, near the present post- 
office of Coon Island. To Mr. and Mrs. Thomas 
Cain were born the following children: Henry 
(deceased at the age of ten years), Nancy (de- 
ceased wife of James Reynolds), Rosanna (married 
Patrick Reynolds, and died at a good old age), 
John (farming in Donegal township), Thomas 
(also farming in Donegal township), and Henry 
(our subject). Mr. Cain lived in Greene county 
for some time after his marriage, and in 1824 
came to and made a permanent home on the old 
Montague farm, near Coon Island, Donegal town- 
ship, Washington county. He was an industrious 
and successful man, respected by all who knew 
him. He died in 1S87, his widow on March 
17, 1860. 

Henry Cain, the youngest son of Thomas and 
Mary I Montague) Cain, was born February '.'•"■ 
1825, on the farm where he is now living, and 
which is located about one mile northwest of 
Coon Island, in Donegal township. When he was 
twelve years of age his father died, and the farm 
was then managed by the elder sons, with what 
little assistance young Henry could give. In 1882 



WASHINGTON COC.XTY. 



1043 



our subject was married to Bridget Ryan, who was 
born December 1, 1848, a daughter of Martin and 
Mary (Fitzpatrick) Ryan, residents of Washington, 
Penn. Mr. and Mrs. Cain have no children. He 
is engaged in general farming- and stock raising 
on the old home place, and has met with well- 
merited success. Politically he was formerly a 
Whig, and is now a Democrat. He and his wife 
are both devout members of the Catholic Church. 



dfAMES STEVENSON and THOMAS LOVE 
ANDERS* )N are descended from that sturdy 
| people known as the Scotch- Irish race. Their 
ancestry lived originally in Scotland, and were 
of the Covenanter faith.' To escape religious per- 
secution, they (led their native land and settled in 
County Donegal, Ireland. Here the great-grand- 
parents of James S. and Thomas L. lived and reared 
a large family: George, Matthew, Benjamin and a 
daughter — Mrs. Scott, her son John, a merchant, 
settled in Baltimore, Md. — being among the 
number. 

Benjamin, their grandfather, was married in 
1780, to Nancy Love, of County Tyrone, Ireland, 
where they became the parents of six children: 
William, Thomas, Benjamin, George, Jane and 
Nancy, none of whom are now living. Grand- 
father Anderson followed the blacksmith trade in 
Ireland, and in 179"i he sailed with his family to 
America, accompanied by his brother Matthew and 
family. After a long and tedious voyage of over 
thirteen weeks, during which time little George 
was seized with a fatal disease and his body buried 
in an ocean grave, the family landed in New York. 
They proceeded to Washington county, Penn., and 
settled on Brush run, in what is now Hopewell 
township, the neighborhood being then very thinly 
settled. Mr. Anderson continued to work at his 
trade while the sons attended to the duties of the 
home farm. Here he died in 1827, his wife having 
been called home a short time before. Of their 
children, William settled in Harrison county, Ohio, 
where he married Melila Thompson; Thomas was a 
river trader, and died in New Orleans; Jane be- 
came the wife of Holstin Bartleson, of Hopewell 
township; Nancy married John Daucherty. 

Benjamin Anderson, their father, was born in 
Ireland in 1789. He came with his parents to 
Washington county, where his boyhood was passed 
on the pioneer farm. At the outbreak of the war 
of 1812, he was made captain of a company of 
drafted infantry, which entered the service under 
the command of Gen. Richard Crooks, whose bat- 
talion was a part of the First Regiment of Penn- 
sylvania Militia, which was assigned to duty in the 
West under Gen. William Henry Harrison. About 
the close of the war Capt. Anderson (afterward 
raised to the rank of a colonel) returned home, and 



in 1816 was married to Margaret Cook, daughter 
of Gen. James Stevenson. To them were born 
eight children: Ann Eliza (Mrs. John Moore, of 
Buffalo township, deceased at the age of thirty- 
five), James Stevenson (farmer of Donegal town- 
ship), Thomas Love (died March 7, 1892), Nancy 
Jane (deceased at the age of nineteen), Catharine 
(Mrs. Jonathan Brownlee, of Buffalo township), 
William Cook (merchant, Claysville, Penn. |, Mary 
Melila (deceased at the age of nineteen) and John 
(died when seven years old). Col. Anderson 
passed the first five years of his married life on the 
old home farm, located about three miles west of 
West Middletown, in Hopewell township. He then 
moved to Donegal township, settling about one 
mile west of Claysville, along the National pike, 
where he owned 250 acres of land, and which be- 
came his permanent residence. He was brigade 
inspector of Washington county for seven years. 
In politics he was a stanch Democrat, and besides 
holding different township offices, he was elected 
county commissioner in 1836. Col. Benjamin An- 
derson and his wife were both members of the 
South Buffalo U. P. Church. He died in 1861, 
Mrs. Anderson in 1875. 

Mrs. Margaret Cook Anderson's father, Gen. 
James Stevenson, a civil engineer, was a native of 
Pennsylvania, born July 25, 1755. The place of 
his birth is not definitely known, but his boyhood 
home was in Letterkenny township, Cumberland 
county. Though scarcely more than a boy at the 
outbreak of the Revolution, he enlisted in the 
struggle for independence, endured the hardships 
of the Colonial soldier on the field, suffered the 
misery and want with fellow-prisoners in the hole 
of an English prison-ship, where the greater num- 
ber of his companions starved to death; and bore 
as the evidence of close encounter, the scar of a 
saber-stroke on his head. About the year 1787 he 
came west and settled on the Dutch fork of Buffalo 
creek, in what is now Donegal township, Washing- 
■ton Co., Penn., where he owned some 600 acres of 
land. In 1791 he was married to Catharine Bonar, 
the daughter of a pioneer neighbor, born Novem- 
ber 7, 1766. Their children were Margaret Cook, 
John, Ann, Mary, Elizabeth, Catharine and Nancy. 
Gen. Stevenson for several years held the office of 
justice of the peace. He was twice elected State 
senator from Washington county, and also served 
five sessions in the House of Representatives. He 
died during the last session, and is buried in the 
cemetery at Harrisburg. His obituary, on record 
at the State capitol, is in part: "Died December 
20, 1815, Major General James Stevenson, member 
of the House of Representatives from Washington 
county. In him were united the venerable and 
worthy citizen: the firm and enlightened patriot: 
the soldier and officer of the Revolution: the gen- 
erous friend and the indulgent father: the affec- 



1044 



WASHINGTON COC'XTY. 



tionate husband and the honest man." The House, 
on hearing of his death, Thursday, the Kith, sus- 
pended business, and the Governor and heads of 
departments were invited to attend the funeral. 
As a mark of respect his fellow-members wore 
crepe on the left arm for thirty days. They had 
inscribed on his tomb: "In memory of Gen. 
James Stevenson, of the House of Representatives. 
* * * * lie was a native of the State and one 
of the heroes of '70. lie served his country: his 
country honored him." Gen. Stevenson also served 
as major-general in the war of 1812. 

James Steyenson Anderson was born in the 
year L820, in Hopewell township, Washington Co., 
Penn. He received his early education in the sub- 
scription schools of the neighborhood. He came 
with his parents to Donegal township, where he 
assisted with the farm work. In 1847 he made a 
trip through the western States. He was married 
in 1856, to Mary E., daughter of John and Mary 
(Milligan) Miller, of Cadiz, Harrison Co., Ohio. 
John Miller was the son of John and Mary (Heed) 
Miller, the former of whom came to this country 
from the North of Ireland, the latter being a native 
of Pennsylvania. The children of James S. and 
Mary E. Anderson were John Benjamin, a teacher 
by profession, who received his education in the 
public schools, and in the Jefferson Academy, Can- 
onsburg, Penn., under Dr. William Ewing (he 
commenced to teach at the age of seventeen years; 
in the summer of 1884 he was elected principal of 
the Canonsburg public schools, which position he 
held until the spring of 1891, when on account x>f 
failing health he resigned; he died October 4, 
lS'.ll); Anna Eliza, deceased at the age of seven 
years; Mary Elizabeth, residing at home; William 
Prank, a contractor and rig builder, living at Craf- 
ton, Allegheny Co., Penn.; Albert Reed, now in 
the State of Iowa; Jennie, deceased in infancy; 
Margaret Cook, living with her parents; and Charles, 
also at home and managing the work on the farm. 
In I860 J. S. Anderson was chosen to succeed 
('apt. Cracraft as captain of the Claysville Blues, 
a company of Pennsylvania volunteers. Capt. An- 
derson was a commissioned officer in the Pennsyl- 
vania Militia for twenty-two years. After his 
marriage he located on his farm, west of Claysville 
and near the National pike, which is his present 
home. His farm, by care and cultivation, has be- 
come one of the most valuable in Donegal town- 
ship. He is now living a retired life. In politics 
he has always been an active Democrat. Capt. An- 
derson and his family belong to the U. P. Church 
at West Alexander, Penn., where he is also a mem- 
ber of the church's Session. 

Thomas Love Anderson was born July ft, 1822, 
mi his father's farm, situated about one mile west 
of Claysville, along the National pike. Here his 

early ]jfe was passed, and here he received bis 



agricultural training and an education in the pub- 
lic schools. He was married November 30, 1864, 
to Celia Rachel, daughter of Alfred and Margaret 
Crump, of Millersburg, Holmes Co., Ohio. Three 
children were born to them: William Howard, 
Benjamin and Catharine Brownlee, all of whom 
are living and at home. After his marriage Mr. 
Anderson settled on a part of the old Stevenson 
tract, always his home. The farm is well improved, 
and its location makes it a valuable property. He 
was a successful farmer, a Democrat in politics, 
active in the interests of his party, and held differ- 
ent local offices. His family are members of the 
U. P. Church at Claysville, Penn., to which he be- 
longed at the time of his death. 

Alfred Crump, the father of Mrs. T. L. Ander- 
son, was a native of Virginia, a wagon-maker by 
trade, and a soldier in the war of 1812. Her 
mother was Margaret Walter, daughter of Peter 
Walter, of Baltimore, Md. After their marriage 
Mr. Crump and his wife moved to Ohio and settled 
on a farm near Georgetown, Columbiana county, 
afterward moving to Millersburg. Mrs. Anderson 
was the eighth of a family of ten children. 



GHARLES M. CRAIG. This highly respected 
gentleman, a native-born and lifelong resi- 
dent of Donegal township, is descended 
from vigorous and robust North-of-Ireland 
people, a race known the wide world over for their 
resolute and honest lives. 

The first of the Craig family, in Washington 
county, to come to American shores, was James 
Craig, a native of Antrim, Ireland, where he mar- 
ried a Miss Martin, and the young couple then set 
sail for the distant shores of Columbia. This was 
toward the close of the last century, and about 
the year 1800 they settled in Washington county, 
Penn., in West Pinley township, where they reared 
an interesting family of sturdy children named, re- 
spectively, Hugh, Samuel A., James, Margaret, 
William, Ann and John. Here this honored pio- 
neer couple closed their eyes forever, after a life of 
honest toil and characteristic rectitude. 

Hugh Craig, the eldest son of James Craig, was 
born in West Finley township, this county, and 
there was married to Martha Martin, by whom were 
born to him the following named children: Jane, 
who died after reaching adult age; James, de- 
ceased when nineteen years old; Martin, who died 
in October, 1828, at the age of fourteen years; 
Enos, who died in April, 1840, aged eighteen 
years; Charles M., the subject of this sketch; Mar- 
garet, who died at the age of twenty-one years, 
and one son and one daughter, both of whom died 
in infancy. Hugh Craig followed farming, and 
also his trade, that of shoemaking, in the township 
of bis birth until 1829, whet) he moved, to Donegal 



SsSsS 





< 4<^ 



JtyO^^Q 



WA SUING TON C 1 WTY 



1041 



township, having purchased a farm about three and 
one-half miles northwest of Claysville. Here he 
passed the remainder of his days, dying in 1833. 

Charles M. Craig, the subject proper of this 
biographical memoir, was born Marcu 4, 1822, near 
Claysville, and at the common schools of the dis- 
trict received a fair education, which he afterward 
greatly improved by home reading and study. 
Early in life he began the arduous duties incident 
to the farm, and followed agricultural pursuits 
under the tuition of his father until the latter's 
death, when he took entire charge of the home- 
stead, living with his mother and sister, Jane, up to 
the time of their respective deaths, the mother 
dying in 1873, the sistor in 1890. Mr. Craig has 
since made his home with a neighbor, whose farm 
adjoins his. For several years he has done no real 
work, but spends the greater part of his time in 
reading, of which he is passionately fond, and he 
keeps himself thoroughly posted on the issues of 
the day, political and otherwise. He has always 
been a great reader, an ardent lover of books, a 
keen observer of men and things; indeed, there is 
scarce a topic, either of the past or present, with 
which he is not familiar, and his conversation on 
all subjects is bright and of a most entertaining 
nature. At one time an Old-line Whig, he is now, 
and has been since the formation of the party, an 
enthusiastic Republican, and, whilst loyal to the 
cause, has always shunned political preferment. 



J(OSHUA COFFIELD, another energetic de- 
scendant of pioneers who left the Emerald 
| Isle to make a home in America, is a prosper- 
ous farmer of East Finley township, and a 
grandson of John Coffield, who was born in County 
Leitrim, Ireland, about 1757. He was one of five 
brothers who were famous for their physical powers, 
and had no equals in their native county for mus- 
cular strength. He was a man of massive frame, a 
splendid specimen of well-developed manhood. Mr. 
Cofneld was married in Ireland, and had nine chil- 
dren. In 1798 he took passage on the ship "Happy 
Return,' 1 which was very filthy and carried all kinds 
of freight, but as he was a poor man the cheapest 
had to suffice. After the vessel was a few weeks 
out, drinking water became scarce, and before the 
voyage (which lasted three months) was ended, 
nearly one-third of the crew and some of the pas- 
sengers died, three of Mr. Coffield's children being 
among the number. At last the terrible journey 
was ended, and the family landed at New Castle, 
Del., near which place they lived for a time, doing 
farm work, but the father soon after died, and the 
five children (Arthur, Lawrence, James, Ann and 
Elizabeth) were obliged to earn a living for them- 
selves and their widowed mother. By working 
their way, the family finally reached Washington 



county, Penn., and first located near Washington 
borough, where they remained a short time, then 
came to East Finley township, and locating on the 
present farm of J. Wiley Patterson, the boys began 
to clear the land and make a home. The mother 
died in 1811, and the children (all except Arthur) 
grew to an adult age and married. 

Lawrence Coffield was married in 1810, to Eliza- 
beth Rawden (who was born in 1773), whose par- 
ents came from Ireland in the same ship as the 
family of John Coffield. To their union were born 
children as follows: John (moved to Illinois and 
died in Adams county, in 1891); Joshua (subject 
of this sketch); Thomas (a farmer in Belmont 
county, Ohio, deceased in 1887); James, Jane and 
Elizabeth (all three deceased in infancy). After 
his marriage Mr. Coffield located on the home farm 
in East Finley township, where he resided until 
1846, when his wife died, and he removed to Adams 
county, 111., and there died in 1848. 

Joshua Coffield was born in East Finley town- 
ship, this county, January 17, 1813, and passed his 
boyhood on his father's farm, receiving but a limited 
education, which he improved by cultivating his 
natural inclination for reading. After the death of 
his father he purchased the old " Rawden farm,"' 
on the head waters of Wheeling creek, which had 
been previously entered by his maternal grand- 
father. Mr. Coffield enjoys the esteem of all who 
know him, and though well advanced in years can 
do a day's work which would do credit to many 
younger men. Politically he was formerly a Whig, 
ami is now a stanch supporter of the Republican 
party. 



di AMES WILSON, one of the leading citizens 
of Taylorstown, Penn., was born ( (ctober 4, 
J 1826, in Buffalo township, Washington Co., 
Penn., and is a grandson of William Wilson. 
The grandfather was born and married in Ireland, 
where his eldest child was reared, and the familv 
afterward came to America. They remained in 
Philadelphia some time, then went to Dauphin 
county, Penn., where they remained until the 
death of Mr. Wilson. His children were James (a 
tailoi and clothier in Philadelphia, Penn. ), Eliza- 
beth ( Mrs. William Rogers ) and William. After 
the death of her father Mrs. Rogers lived some time 
with her brother .lames, and finally accompanied 
her husband to < )hio, where she died. 

William Wilson (father of our subject) was 
born March 18, 1789, in Dauphin county, Penn., 
and in early life learned the wheelwright trade, 
which he followed both in Dauphin and Washington 
counties. He enlisted in the war of 1812, and took 
part in the battle of Baltimore, serving until the 
close of the war, then came to Washington county, 
Penn., and purchased a small tract of land in 



HUN 



WASHINGTON COL XTY. 



Buffalo township, on which he made a permanent 
home. On October 10, 1822, he was married to 
Rachel, daughter of James Keer, of Buffalo town- 
ship, and the following children were born to them: 
Elizabeth, Jane, James, Margaret (Mrs. Thomas 
Hodgens), John M., Mary (Mrs. George M. 
Wariek), Emily, Rachel and William. Mr. Wilson 
was an enterprising citizen; in politics he was a 
I democrat, and served faithfully in various township 
offices. In religious connection he was an active 
member of the Presbyterian Church at. Claysville, 
this county, of which he was a trustee. He died 
April '27, 1869, having been preceded bv his wife 
August 2, IMS. 

.lames Wilson passed his youth on the home place 
in Buffalo township, and received a good common- 
school education. At the age of twenty years he 
went to Philadelphia, and studied ornamental work, 
remaining there several years, then came to 
Taylorstown, this county, where he has since 
resided. On June 4, 1855, he was united in 
marriage with Rebecca J., daughter of Jesse 
Wilson, of Bridgeport, Ohio, and children have 
been born to them as follows: William ( who died 
in youth), De Forest, Kate (Mrs. A. T. Anderson), 
Ellen (Mrs. Robert Knox), Ida (Mrs. N. A.Sutton), 
Rachel and Susan Gertrude. The family are mem- 
bers of the United Presbyterian Church at Taylors- 
town, of which Mr. Wilson is an elder and liberal 
supporter. He is engaged in painting; in politics 
he is a stanch Democrat and an able worker, and 
has held nearly all the township offices, being 
for fifteen years connected in various ways with 
the school board. 



THE MARTIN FAMILY. This well-known 
and time-honored family will become extinct 
in Washington county with the death of 
Rebecca Martin. Their genealogy can be 
traced to one John Martin, a native of 
( lounty Armagh, Ireland, who was married to 
Mary McClave. They were faithful disciples of 
the Protestant faith, and their old Bible, which 
was printed in 1695, is yet in the possession of the 
family. 

Robert Martin, a son of John and Mary ( Mc- 
Clave) Martin, was born about 1768, in County 
Armagh, Ireland, and there married Nancy Burris, 
who was born about 177:!, in County Down, Ire- 
land. The young couple came to America in 
1794, landing at Philadelphia after a loner, rough 
voyage. They made a temporary location in Lan- 
caster county, then west to Venango county, Perm., 
where their hard-earned savings were invested in 
400 acres of land, which he purchased in all good 
faith, only to discover, when too late, that he had 
bought of some unscrupulous rascal who had no 
title to the property. This tract has since devel- 



oped into one of the finest oil-producing territories 
in the United States. After spending a large sum 
of money in attempting to prove his title, Mr. Mar- 
tin was obliged to resign himself to the loss of the 
whole, and leaving Venango county, descended 
the Allegheny river. The family then resided at 
Pittsburgh a short time, but finally located on a 
small farm in Hanover township, this county, where 
their remaining days were passed. Robert Martin 
died in 1N'2)S, followed by his wife several years 
later. Their children were: John (referred to be- 
low ), Mary (never married, deceased at the age of 
eighty-three years), Ellen (unmarried, died in her 
eighty-second year), Robert, James (unmarried, 
lived in Hanover township), Thomas (a resident of 
Ritchie county, W. Va.), Agnes (deceased in 
youth), Samuel and Rebecca (twins). Of this 
family Rebecca is the only one living. 

Robert Martin (son of Robert and Nancy (Bur- 
ris ) Martin ) grew to manhood on the home place, 
and in 1828 was married to Elizabeth, daughter of 
William at.d Elizabeth (Grant) Ilanlin. To this 
union seven children were born, viz.: Nancy, Eliza- 
beth (of Paris, Penn.), William (deceased at the 
age of twenty-eight years), James (a farmer of 
Jefferson county, Ohio), Thomas H. ( living in the 
West), Samuel (deceased, a farmer of Jefferson 
county, Ohio), and John L. ( who died in Jefferson 
county. < Hiio). I )f these children the eldest daugh- 
ter, Nancy, was born in 1830, and in early woman- 
hood was married to David Parkhill. He was born 
in 1833, in (,'ounty Antrim, Ireland, and coming to 
America when but sixteen years of age, followed 
the vocation of papering and plastering. Seven 
children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Parkhill, three 
of whom are living, viz.: Lizzie M. (of Paris, 
Penn.), John C. (an electrician of Wellsville, Ohio), 
and W. J. (an employee of the Pittsburgh Car 
Service Association). The father died in 1872, fol- 
lowed by his wife in 1878, and both are buried in 
the Mooretown cemetery, Jefferson county, Ohio. 
Robert Martin (father of Mrs. Parkhill) died in 
1864, followed by his wife in 1N7'~J. Their remains 
are interred in the Mooretown cemetery, Jefferson 
county, ( )hio. 

Samuel Martin, son of Robert and Nancy (Bur- 
ris) Martirr, and twin brother of Rebecca, was born 
October 24,1811. He was naturally inclined to 
mechanical life and learned several trades, but 
evinced his good judgment by purchasing from the 
other heirs a small farm of his lather's, to which he 
added other land and on which he made various im- 
provements. I If carried on a mercantile business 
for a short time at Knoxville, Jefferson Co., Ohio, 
but soon returned to his farm in Washington coun- 
ty, Penn. He accumulated a good property by 
his own efforts and loaned some money. Politi- 
cally, he was a prominent member of the Demo- 
cratic party, having served as 'squire until he 



WAS&IXGTON i or.YTY. 



1040 



resigned the office. In religion he was a member 
of the United Presbyterian Church until his death, 
August 13, 1879. 

Rebecca Martin, daughter of Robert and Nancy 
(Burris) Martin, has never married, and is living on 
her brother's farm (which was bequeathed to her), 
with two representatives of the two generations 
following her own — Miss Lizzie Martin (a niece of 
Rebecca Martin) and Miss Lizzie Parkhill (a niece of 
Lizzie Martin), who have charge of the farm, which 
they conduct with signal success. Although Miss 
Rebecca Martin has passed through the joys and 
sorrows of four score years, she is yet an active 
woman, easily calling to mind events which oc- 
curred when she was a child. 

John Martin, son of Robert and Nancy (Burris) 
Martin, married Mary Williamson in 18 19, and 
moved to .Jefferson county, Ohio. To this union 
eight children were born, of whom five are living: 
Mrs. Jane Warren, Mrs. Margaret Warren, both of 
Iowa; Mrs. Mary White, of California; Rev. J. W. 
Martin, of Mt. Perry, Ohio, and Dr. Samuel Mar- 
tin, of Sealkote, India. Thomas Martin, son of Rob- 
ert and Nancy (Burris) Martin, married Miss 
Cathariue J. Moates, of Ritchie county, in 1854, to 
whom one son was born, Robert EL, a clerk in the 
War Department, Washington, D. C. 



JOHN McCORKLE (deceased). The subject 
of this biographical sketch was a son of 
Thomas McCorkle, who was born and raised 
in Adams county, Penn., and there married 
Esther Terrell, a resident of the same county. 
They moved to Washington county, Penn., in the 
year 1810, purchasing a large farm in Cross Creek 
township. Their family consisted of six children, 
namely: Robert (died unmarried), Margaret ( Mrs. 
Thomas Ritchey), John (the subject of this sketch), 
Frances (died unmarried), Jane (wife of Charles 
Phillis) and Thomas (who married Margaret Welch), 
all dead. The father followed farming, and in 
politics voted the Democratic ticket. He was a 
ruling elder of the Associate, now United Presby- 
terian Church, at West Middletown. 

John McCorkle was born June 4, 1803, in Adams 
county, Penn., and removed when quite young with 
his parents to Washington county, where he was 
reared and educated. He was first married Janu- 
ary 14, 1834, to Mary McCorkle, of Somerset town- 
ship, Washington Co., Penn. They had one son, 
Thomas 13. Her death occurred May 25, 1836, 
and on May 12, 1842, he chose for his second wife 
Mary, daughter of David B. Hay. David was a 
son of John Hay, who was born in Scotland, and 
there married, in 1777, Anna Burns, a near relative 
of the famous Scottish poet, Robert Burns. The 
following children were born to John and Anna 
(Burns) Hay: John, Alexander, James, Ephraim 



and David B., Jane ( Mrs. John McKimman), Anna 
( Mrs. Thomas Struthers), Catherine (wife of Rob- 
ert Braden), Elizabeth ( Mrs. James Harper), Mary 
( wife of Archibald Harper). 

The family emigrated to America, but during 
the voyage two sons died and the ocean was their 
winding sheet. After arriving in Ameriea they 
first settled in Lancaster county, Penn. Then the 
family settled permanently on Miller's run, in Cecil 
township, where they lost two more sons in youth, 
immediately after their settlement. Mr. Hay was a 
Democrat, and in religion a ruling elder of the 
Seceder Church for many years. David B. Hay 
was born in 1785 in Lancaster county, Penn., and 
received his education at his home in Washington 
county. He was united in marriage, in early life, 
with Mary, daughter of Patrick McCullough. Their 
children were Anna (Mrs. Henry Donnell), Mary 
(wife of John McCorkle), Elizabeth, Jane (Mrs. 
Robert Scott) and Hannah (died in infancy). The 
father followed farming. Politically he was a 
Democrat, and served as justice of the peace for 
several terms. He was a member of the Associate 
Reformed Church until his death in 1873, in his 
eighty-seventh year. He was preceded to the grave 
by his wife, who died in 1865, being then eighty- 
one years of age. 

John and Mary (Hay) McCorkle had no children. 
He was an active and progressive citizen. Politi- 
cally he was a Democrat, and religiously a ruling 
elder in the U. P. Church until his death on July 
18, 1863. Mrs. Mary McCorkle, his widow, re- 
sides at West Middletown. 



L 



EROY WOODS DAY, one of the successful 
farmers and stock raisers and influential citi- 
zens of Morris township, is a native of Wash- 
ington county, born in this township, April 
24, 1833. He is the youngest of a family of five 
children born to Lemuel Fordham Day and Nancy 
Jordan Day. 

The family is an old and well-known one of 
English descent, and can be traced to the nobility 
of that country. Of the five children born to Lem- 
uel F. and Nancy Day, two died in infancy. The 
others are as follows: Stephen F., born July 22, 
1S27, left Washington county in 1852, and died 
March 6, 1892, in Nebraska. He was never mar- 
ried. He left a large landed estate to his brother, 
L. W. Day, and his niece, Cora B. Minton. Eliza, 
born April 7, 1831, was married in 1S52 to Dr. 
Artemas Day, of this township, and became the 
mother of one child, Cora Bell, who married S. D 
Minton. Mrs. Day died in 1804. Leroy Woods 
Day received such an education as was afforded 
the country youth of that day, and was reared to a 
practical knowledge of farm life, which he has 
turned to good account. He resides on the valua- 



1050 



WASiuxirros < ocxty. 



ble tract of land lying about one-half mile in nth 
of Sparta, which has been in the possession of the 
Day family for more than fifty years. He gives 
much attention to sheep-raising, to which his place 
is especially adapted, and he is one of the most 
successful wool-growers of this county. Through 
some means, which he attributes to the lay of the 
land and the breed of sheep, his stock has never 
been infected with those diseases which so ma- 
terially lessen the profits of most sheep raisers. 

Mr. Day was married April 27, 1855, to Miss 
.Miranda Vankirk Day, a daughter of Daniel Day, 
of Morris township, to which union there have 
been born eight children, all of whom are living 
except the eldest, Horace Maim, who was born De- 
cember 27, 1856, and died November 12, 1S57. 
Charles Sumner, born February 2, 1858, married 
October 21, 1SS0, Miss Sarah M. Auld, of Greene 
county, Perm., a daughter of John Auld; Stephen 
Ellsworth, a graduate of the Normal School at < 'ali- 
fornia, and also of Washington and Jefferson 
College, class of L892, was born August 8, [861, 
married Annie M., daughter of Theodore Day, 
July 21, 18D2, and now resides at Washington, 
Penn.; E Iward Sullivan, a vocal and instrumental 
musician, and dealer in musical instiuments, was 
bom February 7, L865, and married Josie, daugh- 
ter of Shepherd Kerns, December 24, 1891 ; Lemuel 
Clarence, born July 15, 18(37, graduated with the 
class of 1892 from the State Normal School at 
Edinboro; Howard Woods, born December 5, L869; 
Ililliard Daniel, born November 15. 1S72, anil 
Minor Harold, born February 28, 1876. The family 
is an accomplished one, and especially gifted in 
music. They have among their own members a 
sextet brass band, and their musical performances 
are of the most creditable character. In August, 
L862, Mr. Day enlisted in Company D, One Hun- 
dred and Fortieth Regiment P. V. I., in which he 
served until honorably discharged, on account of 
disability, in January, 1864, at which time he was 
third corporal. In politics he is a Republican, and 
in religion both he and Mrs. Day are members, of 
the Cumberland Presbyterian ( 'hureh at < >ld Con- 
cord. Mr. Day is also a member of Luther Day 
Post, No. 395, G. A. P., and is at present Post 
Commander. 

NELSON VAN KIRK, a prominent con- 
tractor and builder, and a well-known citi- 
zen of Washington, is a native of the county, 
i -» born in Am well township, January 30, 1823, 
V a son of William and Margaret (Bollen) 

Van Kirk, the former of whom was also a native 
of that township. The grandfather, William Van 
Kirk, came from New Jersey to this county, along 
with other early settlers, bought land which he 
improved, and died here. He was the father of 
ten children, none of whom are now living. 



William Van Kirk, lather of our subject, received 
his education at the subscription schools of his 
native township, and learned the trades of cabinet- 
maker and carpenter, which he successfully carried 
on in Washington borough ( whither he had come 
in IN28) until 18H8, in which year he moved to a 
farm in South Strabane township. He was married 
to Margaret Bollen, a native of the county, who 
bore him ten children, of whom five grew to 
maturity, viz.: Ann Eliza, who died at the age of 
twenty-five years; Matilda, widow of John Charters; 
Nelson; Harvey J., an attorney at law, and Mar- 
garet, wife of Stephen Reppert, residing in Ken- 
tucky. In 1862 the father died, aged sixty-five 
years, and in March, 1875, the mother passed away 
at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Charters, in 
South Strabane township, at the age of eighty-four 
years. Mr. Van Kirk had served as associate judge 
for several terms. 

Nelson Van Kirk secured a liberal education at 
the common schools of South Strabane toyvnship, 
and learned the trade of carpenter of his father. 
In 1846 he returned to Washington borough, 
where he yet resides. Since the year 1858 he has 
been a contractor ami builder, and has put up a 
great many buildings in and about Washington. 
In I860 he erected, on South Main street, the 
"Strain Building," which has an iron front; in 
1861 he built lor William Smith the "Iron Hall," 
on the corner of Main and Beau streets, one of the 
finest structures in the city; he also erected the 
National Bank building, the dwellings of Judge 
Mcllvaine and W. P. Hastings, the First and Third 
Presbyterian churches, in addition to which he put 
up, at various times, many dwelling houses outside 
the borough limits, and erected churches at Pigeon 
Creek and North Buffalo, also the County Home. 

In 1854 Mr. Van Kirk was united in marriage 
with Miss Ann M. Chidester, of West Virginia, a 
daughter of Ephraim and Mary (Gilchrist) Chides- 
ter, natives of Washington county, Penn., the 
father born in November, 1798, died in 1876, the 
mother born in 1800, died in 1830. Nelson and 
Ann M. Van Kirk had a family of seven children, 
all sons: John, James and Harvey (deceased), and 
William E., Edward M., George W. and Nelson 
('. (living). (II these, William E. and Edward M. 
are both contractors in company with their father; 
George W. is a druggist in Monongahela City, 
Penn.; Nelson C. is a clerk in W. P. Hastings' 
hardware store in Washington; William E. is a 
member of Washington borough council, now 
serving his second term. 

Of Mr. Van Kirk it may truly be said that he is 
a thoroughly representative, self-made man, having 
attained success by his own individual energy and 
perseverance, and accumulated a comfortable com- 
petence, part of which consists of eight dwelling 
houses in the borough of Washington. Socially, 









£rr*U-' 






tUZ^fiJ 



ii i ///'.'. TO ■ COL i I 






he is genial, whole-souled, ■..urn hearted and 

atti ibutea he beai with b becoming mod 

I'sty, in pari natural, in pari thi refle ol th( amia 
l.iliiy mill refinement oharaoteristic "I bii faithful 
spouse. A call at the elegant and oomfortabli 
home of Mr. and Mrs. Van Kirk will assure the 
visitor thai within its hospil ible walli love i I ing 
\li and Mrs. V.-m Kirk are member! of the First 



Presbyterian Church ol Washington Penn Po 
ly in- was In il ;> Whig, and since the forma 



resnytena 

i iofl lly he 
tion of Ok- party baa been a stanch Republican 
I- oi i ■ con ■ -Hi i ■■ years he haa aei red with ac 
Icnowledged ability aa a membei of the Washing 
inn borough oi mncil. 



JOHN S. GALLEY. Petei Galley, grpal 
1 grandfather of John Galley, emigrated to 
A merioa from Gei man , about I be > eai I 770, 
and erved u » drummer during the Revolu 
tionary war. He settled in Lancasti i county, Penn.. 
win in he married Sophia Stern, of the same county. 
'I'n them wa born Philip, irrandfathi i ol John 
Galley, in 1 77 I. 

Philip Galli y married Vfagdali na Newcomi 
Lancastei county. Afterward tln-y emigrated to 
Payette county, Penn , and settled on the Vou 
ofMuniy river, In the midst of the now famous 
region. To them were born eleven ohildn 
follows: Peter, Catharene, John Jacob, Da 
Elizabeth, Samuel, Jonathan, Barbara, Abraham 
and lli-nry. 

Peter Galley was born in l 799, in Fayette county, 
passing bis youth mi ilin home farm. He wa mai 
ri<:<l to Miuy Striokler, of Fayette county, and 
children wi-m born to them as follows: Franci 
Martha, William, Mary, Elizabeth and Henry. 
The mother died, and foi his second wife Petei 
Galley was united in marriagi vith l ranees, daugh 
tei of John Sherriok, who bore him the folio 
named children: Ann, Sarah, I 'lnli|i, < lyrus, Sh an, 
Catherine, John S., Joanna, Melinda and Mum 
This wife also died, and for bis third ohoioe Mr. 
Galley selected Susan Newmyer Stauffer, of ! 

ette rnillity. 

John S. Galley, son of Petei and Franc* | hei 
rick) Galley, was born -Inly 12, 1842, in Fayette 
county. He attended the academy al Pleasant 
Valley, then took one term at Hiram College, and 
boarded with the father of Mi . Jami i A. Garfield 
In 1864 John S, ' ralley enlisted in the Sixth Penn 
sylvania Heavy Artillery, and served with the 
army of the Potomac until the close of the war. 
WIh-ii the contest was ended In- returned to Faj 
ette county, and on October 'I, 1865, was united 
In marriage with Mary, daugbtei of Samuel and 
granddaughter of Riohard Blaokmore, of W'asli 
ington county. The latter whh a brother of Col. 
William Blaokmore. Richard followed agricult 



ural pui mi i and ited wii Ii the I lemocrat io 
[nearly life he whh married to Marj B 

i hi m i n I. 

imuel I llackmore wa boi n f)ctobei - ; I I 
and "H Mai '■. I 127, wa i united In mai i 

,u;iii Toi renoe, of Alleghen 
dren bl< ed 1 hi i union iz.: Albei tnd 

John. The mothei dii d and on itobei ' ', I 141 • 

.n,,ii. I 1 1 ri led i" Anna, daughti i 

ol i Ibadiah Higbee, who bore him two children 
Mary and I Ibadiah, * If thi • Mai j attendi d the 
• ( 1 1 Valley Academy, and i here mi t for t he 
first • ime hei future hu band, John alley. 

To the union ol John S. and Mary | Bla< I mi u - | 
(ialley nine children were born: Anna F. Will 
nun r. C, ' oi man, Lori Ita E., Bcati ice ! , Eva 
M., Nellie M., Edna R and J, I larl ' H tbi fam 
ily, Loretta i now attending the Normal School al 

and William h en a Indent at 1 1 nun 

i lollege. The parenti of these children began thi ii 
wedded life in Library, Alleghenj county, arhere 
Mr. Galley conducted a store foi two years, then 
Ii .1 mi ;i farm in towa f<>i three years. At the 
end of i hat time he i ame to A county 

and bouc lit llfj i J land in l 'etei town hip, 

underlaid with a fine coal ein Mr. Gall ej con 
duct ■ a small 'limy. In politic i he wa i a Rep 
can until the origin oi the Prohibition party in 

in'-i- then In- has ca • hi rote for i be * 
throw ol the whisky traffic, the nation's curse. In 
religion I"- i a membei and eldei ol the ( hurch of 
< in 1st, of l V| ' i Creel 



EiNOCIl I RENCtf. The French family In 
I 'ennsylvania is an old Re olut ionai v one. 
Alexander French, the rrandfathei of 

Eno ih I rench (tbi ubjeot ol thia sketch }, 

having been a membi i - ' V*a hington's 

bodyguard. Hi n idi I neai Philadelphia, Penn., 
at i be i mi. ni In death. .'■ ; narried a 

MiHH McElroy, of Chambei burgh, Penn., and 
moved t" Fayette county, this State, where be 
reared a family ol children, of whom '■■ 
Frenoh wai one. He died in Fayette county. 
George French wasborn March 14, L 799, and in 
man ied Mai y Porter, a daugbtei ol J ui 
Charle Porter, of Fayette county. In 1832 he 
removed to Morri town bip, Wa hington com 
and purcha ed the farm located one ball mile north 
, , i of Dunn's Station, on which bi '<n, Enoch, 
now resides, where he remained until bis death, Oc 

tober8, 1890, bis lif bracing a period of fit 

eight rears. Mrs. French died in 1839, having 
become the mother of eight children five boys* 
and three girls. A. Ii., the eldest, enlisted in tin- 
Eighth Regiment, Pennsylvania Re erves, and was 
killed ni the battleof Fredericksburg; Charles P., 
:i Presbyterian ministei of La Salle county, 111., 



io:>4 



WASHING TON COUNTY. 



died February 8, 1870; Washington, born in 1830, 
died at the age of fourteen years, ( )ctober 10, 1844; 
one child died in infancy; Anne A. Miles died in 
May, 1869; J. O, born October 10, 1830, served 
in the Fifth West Virginia Cavalry during the 
Civil war, and is now a prominent citizen of Pros- 
perity, Washington county; Jane resides at Amity, 
and Enoch in Morris township. 

Enoch French, the immediate subject of this 
sketch, was born where he now resides, June 28, 
1834. He received a common-school education 
and remained with his father, assisting in conduct 
ing the farm until the beginning of the late war. 
On August 22, 1862, he enlisted at Amity in Com- 
pany D, < )ne Hundred and Fortieth Regiment, P. 
V. I., and served fourteen months, when he received 
an honorable discharge and returned home. The 
failing health of his father rendered it necessary for 
him to assume the management of the farm. On 
August 28, 1876, he married Lizzie J. Gardner, a 
daughter of John Gardner, of Amwell township. 
Under his managment the splendid farm, on which he 
has worked since boyhood, has been much improved, 
and is made to yield a good income. Mr. French 
is a man of much more than ordinary intelligence, 
is an omnivorous reader, and is possessed of a re- 
markable memory, whereby he is enabled to give 
dates and recite events of historical importance 
with great preciseness. He is an authority on mat- 
ters of this kind. He is a Republican in politics, 
though not bitterly partisan. 



It IrENRY B. McMURRAY is a leader among 
tj—-l the representative citizens of Washington 
county. He is descended from Scotch 
II -* ancestors, a race noted for the integrity and 
V honor of its people. John McMurray was 

the pioneer of the family to land on American soil. 
He was married in Scotland to Mary Brown, and 
with his wife and infant daughter, Susanna, 
embarked on the most substantial vessel then 
procurable, sailing from Liverpool to America. 
When some weeks at sea the captain and mate had 
a quarrel, and during the trouble the captain shot 
the mate. He was supposed to be mortally wounded, 
but the captain sailed north, thinking the cold 
climate would benefit the victim. The experiment 
proved successful, and the mate was soon out of 
danger. They then resumed their journey, but 
owing to the long voyage the water supply gave 
out, and all on board seemed in imminent danger 
of meeting a horrible death. A rain fell, and, by 
spreading articles on the deck, enough water was 
caught to avert the danger. 

After a voyage of three months, crew and passen- 
gers were finally landed safely at New York. John 
McMurray soon after proceeded to Winchester, W. 
\"a., where the family lived a few years, then 



moved to Washington county, Penn., resided in 
Buffalo township a short time, and finally, in 
company with bis brother Peter, settled in Guern- 
sey county, ( )hio, while Samuel settled in Donegal 
township, this county. John took a large tract of 
land upon which he erected a log cabin, and there 
passed the remainder of his life. In those days the 
clothing of the family was made of flax, spun and 
woven by their own hands; the wheat which the 
settlers raised was carried on horseback to Wells- 
burg, W. Va., and then ground by a treadmill into 
flour. Special trips were also made to Winchester, 
W. \ a., for salt. The settlers usually made these 
journeys in large parties, taking with them sutli- 
cient provisions to last until their return. On the 
outward trip they left provision for one meal at 
each stopping-place, so that by the time they 
arrived at Winchester the horses were unloaded 
and a supply of food ready for the homeward 
journey obtained. Grain was harvested by a 
sickle, and the ground cultivated with a wooden 
plow, while wagons and sleds were articles of 
luxury unknown to the pioneers. Amid all these 
privations and discouragements they bravely strug- 
gled on, the only effect of their trials being to 
unite them more closely into a bond of brotherhood. 
Politically John McMurray was a Federalist, and in 
religion a member of the Three Ridge Presbyterian 
Church at West Alexander. He died at the age of 
eighty-nine, and was buried at West Alexander, 
this county. The children born to this couple were 
as follows: Susanna, John, Jane, Samuel, William, 
James, Eliza and Mary. 

William McMurray, son of John and Mary 
(Brown) McMurray, was born March 29, 1805, in 
Donegal township, and remained on the home farm 
during his boyhood, receiving a subscription-school 
education. In early manhood he was united in 
marriage with Jane, daughter of William Martin. 
Air. Martin was born in County Tyrone, Ireland, 
and in early life came to America, settling near 
Elm Grove, W. Ya. He Was married to Margaret 
Blayney, who bore him children as follows: Martha, 
Eliza, Andrew, Margaret, Jane and Mary. In 
politics Mr. Martin was a Democrat. His wife was 
a member of the Presbyterian Church. William 
and Jane (Martin) McMurray began their wedded 
life April 12, L838, on a farm near West Alexander, 
this county, and afterward purchased the home 
place. In 187."> he moved to Burgettstown, Penn., 
where he died March 14, 1SS1, and was buried by 
the side of his wife, who had crossed the river 
September 4, 1864. Mr. McMurray was an ener- 
getic, enterprising citizen and in politics w;is 
formerly a Whig, afterward uniting with the 
Republican party. In religious faith he was an 
active Presbyterian. 

Henry B. McMurray was born September 24, 
1840, in Donegal township, this county. His 



WASHINGTON COLWTY. 



1055 



earlier education was received at the common 
schools; afterward attended the academy conducted 
by Rev. W. H. Lester of West Alexander, of which 
William McMurray, his father, was a trustee. In 
August, 1862, Henry B. McMurray enlisted in 
Company H, Fourteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, was 
sent to the Shenandoah Valley, and served till the 
close of the war, under Sheridan and Custer. He 
was taken prisoner at Ashby's Gap, and confined 
in Libby prison three and a half months, being 
released, together with several other prisoners, 
about ten days prior to the surrender at Appo- 
mattox. Mr. McMurray then returned home, and 
in 1865 opened a drug store at Burgettstown, 
where he has since remained. On August 3, 1876, 
he was united in marriage with Annie C. Watter- 
son, daughter of Robert and Mary Watterson, of 
Wheeling, W. Va., who bore him three children: 
Jennie C, Lee W. and Henry H. Mr. McMurray 
is a Republican in politics, and in religion is a 
member of the Presbyterian Church, serving as 
trustee. Henry B. McMurray's brothers and sisters 
were born on the following dates: John, December 
5, 1843; William M., April 21, 1846; Martha J., 
November 12, 1848; Eliza Ann, March 5, 1851, and 
Mary Miller McMurray, May 2, 1856. John married 
Julia Kelly, of Pittsburgh, in July, 1865 (To them 
were born: Henry (deceased ), Elie, Fred, Frank, 
Lizzie (deceased), and Lylie). William M., mar- 
ried Julia S. Moore at Burgettstown, September 4, 
1878 (They are the parents of Fanny May, 
Nellie Moore, William M. and Florence Espin). 
Eliza married James Rooth, of West Alexander, in 
July, 1875. Martha Jane married Alvin Curtis, at 
Claysville, in September, 1868, and to them were 
born Jessie and Alvin Curtis. 



It If ENRY WESLEY HILDEBRAND, one of 
k— "1 the most successful farmers of West Beth- 
lehem township, is a grandson of Michael 
1) -* Hildebrand, who was born in 1796, in West 
v Bethlehem township, this county. 

His father left Germany in early life, and set- 
tling in Washington county, Penn., erected a cabin 
in the wilderness where Michael was born. Mi- 
chael was a soldier in the war of 1812, unsurpassed 
for bravery and daring. He was one of the build- 
ers of that once famous thoroughfare, the " National 
pike." He married Christina Harsh, a daughter of 
Philip Harsh, who was also one of the first to settle 
in Washington county. To this couple were born: 
Demas, Andrew, Sarah Ann, Levi, Mary Jane and 
Elizabeth, who ( with the exception of Mary Jane, 
who died in 1876) are all still living. Andrew is 
a farmer of prominence and resides on the old home- 
stead; Sarah Ann is the wife of Samuel Walton, of 
Rice's Landing, Greene county; Levi is a black- 
smith, and lives at Ten-Mile village, Amwell town- 



ship; Elizabeth lives in West Bethlehem township, 
and is the wife of John Hannah, a well-known 
farmer. 

Demas Hildebrand, the fatherof our subject, was 
born August 24, 1824, and in early life made many 
dangerous trips, with heavy wagons to Zanesville, 
Ohio; and, did space permit, many incidents of 
peril then encountered by this brave pioneer might 
be recounted. He afterward operated the first 
threshinor machine broucrht to Washington county. 
In March, 184o, he married Margaret Keys, who 
was born September 27, 1823, a daughter of Henry 
Keys, who was born and reared on the farm now 
owned by his son, Henry. The following named 
children were born to this couple: Henry Wesley; 
Sarah Isabel, born November 1,1848, died August 
16, 1872; William A. S., born May 24, 1855, died 
September 22, 1877; Iria Anson, born June 26, 
1859, now a prominent farmer of Greene county, 
Ind.; James B. McClelland, born February 26, 
1863, also a resident of Greene county, Ind.; Lu- 
ella, born June 1, 1865; and Carrie Etta, born June 
8, 1870, both living with their father, who is an 
extensive landowner in Greene county, Ind. 

Henry Wesley Hildebrand, the subject of this 
sketch, was born December 211, IS 15, in West 
Bethlehem township, this county. Here his early 
years were passed at work upon the farm, and he 
received but little education, for being the eldest, 
of the family he shared with his father much of the 
responsibility and management of the place. On 
January 2, 1868, he married Catherine Wonsettler, 
a daughter of David Wonsettler, and they have 
two sons: William, born August 28, 1870, and 
Finley W., born October 15, 1877, now attending 
school. Mrs. Hildebrand died March 2, 18 l J<>, at 
the age of forty-two years, three months and twenty- 
one days. To her memory a handsome monument 
was erected. Mr. Hildebrand was married March 
19, 1891, to Emma Grable, a daughter of David 
Grable, a prominent farmer of West Bethlehem 
township. Mr. Hildebrand is an elder in the Lu- 4 
theran Church, of which he and his wife are mem- 
bers, and in politics he is a Democrat. 




[( DAM MOUNTS, one of the most intelligent 
l\ and progressive citizens of Franklin town- 
\\ ship, was born in Canton township, February 
=i 23, 1832. 

His father, William Mounts, was born in 
this county January 14, 1800, and was brought up 
to practical farm life from his earliest boyhood. 
The school he attended during a few winter weeks 
in each year was held in a deserted log cabin, 
through which the wintry winds whistled with 
gleeful defiance at the huge fire that burned 
brightly in the spacious fireplace, which monopo- 
lized one end-of the schoolroom. In October, 1823, 



1056 



WASHINGTON COUATY. 



Mr. Mounts was married to Mary Malone, whose 
family were also old settlers, and after their marri- 
age the young couple made their home in Franklin 
township until 1852, when he moved to Valley 
Inn, Buffalo township. Later he settled on Wolf 
Farm, where he died in June, 18N4. He was 
emphatically a self-made man, and at the time of 
his death owned a large farm. Politically he was 
first a Whig, and afterward a Republican, but 
though always taking a deep interest in the affairs 
of his party, he would never accept office. Among 
the earliest members of East Buffalo Presbyterian 
Church, he was one of its leading and most 
esteemed supporters. The children of this honored 
pioneer were: William, Adam, Richard, Mary A. 
(Mrs. Robert Huston), Marguerite (Mrs. Abraham 
Huston), Elizabeth (Mrs. Charles Kelley), Martha 
(Mrs. Samuel Parker), Thomas Theodore and 
Isaac C. Richard, Thomas and Calvin reside on 
Wolf Farm. Sarah Jane, the oldest of the family, 
married J. C. Johnson. 

The early life of Adam Mounts was passed at 
the paternal home, where he was employed for the 
most part in assisting in the work on the farm 
until he was about nineteen years old, when for a 
time he attended the school of his section known 
as .lolley's schoolhouse. On February 23, 1860, 
Mr. Mounts was married to Susan, a daughter of 
Jacob Miller, of Donegal township, and since his 
marriage has resided in Franklin township. His 
fine farm in Franklin township comprises 200 acres 
of fertile land, on which he has made many improve- 
ments, and his present residence, a large two-story 
frame building, was built in 1884. He also owns 
a farm of 200 acres in West Finley township, and 
the fine residence on that farm is constructed of 
brick made in about the year 1832. Mr. Mounts 
also owns the first land deeded to his father in 
October, 1831. The names of the children born to 
Mr. and Mrs. Adam Mounts are as follows: Mary 
A. (Mrs. Bernard Ramsey), William O, J. Melvin, 
Harry B., James A., Flora B., Alvin and Cora. 
Mr. Mounts is a member of East Buffalo Presby- 
terian Church, and in politics he is a Republican. 



If IrUGH WILSON. In many vocations of life 
k-J are found those who possess a reputation 
for business sagacity which they do not 
II — * really deserve. Thev are prosperous, not 
v as a reward of their own struggles for suc- 

cess, but having inherited the fruit of others' toil, 
are in no way blameworthy for this fact. Vet it is 
evident to any thoughtful mind, that a man whose 
business has been organized and placed in a pros- 
perous condition before he assumed control, does 
not require the experience and judgment which 
are essential to those who make their own road to 
fortune. In this respect the agriculturist possesses 



an advantage over his city brethren, inasmuch as 
his reputation is of necessity based almost entirely 
upon his own personal ability. He may inherit 
lands and gold, but if he lacks the prerequisites of 
his vocation, he cannot lie a successful farmer even 
in name, for in no other path of life is incompe- 
tency so apparent. Therefore, the successful and 
prosperous agriculturist is always the man who 
must possess sterling qualities of his own, regard- 
less of the property he may inherit. Among the 
latter class the name of Wilson is prominently 
identified. Henry Wilson was born east of the 
mountains, and in early manhood became a pioneer 
settler of Allegheny county, Penn., locating near 
McDonald. He was a prosperous farmer, and died 
on the old place, leaving a family of nine children. 

William W. Wilson, a son of that pioneer, was 
born May 14, 1815, in Allegheny county, Penn., 
and received a subscription-school education. He 
then learned the waoron-makinP' trade, and first 
located at Eldersville, Washington Co., Penn. < In 
April 8, 1836, he selected a life companion in the 
person of Jane Smith, who was born December 
25, 1811. She was a daughter of Robert Smith, 
of Jefferson township, this county. The young 
couple continued to reside in Eldersville until 
1839, when they moved to Paris, Hanover town- 
ship. The children of this family bore the follow- 
ing names: Alexander, living in Steubenville, 
Ohio, was born January 10, 1837; Hugh, born Au- 
gust 15, 1839; John S., a farmer of Hanover 
township, born November 6, 1841; William II., a 
liveryman of Burgettstown, Penn., born March L5, 
1844; Rowena, wife of Russell Parks, Burgetts- 
town, Penn., born March 23, 1847; Robert G., de- 
ceased at the age of two years, born January 8, 
1850; Rachel J., wife of W. V. Dunbar, of Smith 
township, born December 29, 1851; and James B., 
living in Washington State, born August 26, 1856. 
Mr. Wilson was a leading member of the Democratic 
party, having held several local offices. In 1874 
he fell from his haymow, and, dislocating his neck, 
died instantly. In 1SS7 his widow was laid beside 
him in Paris cemetery. Both were consistent mem- 
bers of the I". P. Church. 

Hugh Wilson, whose name opens this sketch, 
was born at Kldersville, this county, having been 
but an infant when his parents located in Paris. 
He attended the common schools, then hired out ti> 
Et. S. Cook, living near Bulger, Washington county, 
with whom he remained some time. < >n March 2i>, 
1868, he led to the altar Ophelia Russell, who was 
born in 1840. She was a daughter of John and 
Jane (Simpson ) Russell, of Smith township. One 
son, John, was born to this marriage, February 4, 
1882. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Wilson 
remained for some time as tenants on his father-in- 
law's farm. In 1880 he located on his present 
home in Hanover township,' upon which he has 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1057 



made many improvements, successfully devoting 
his attention to general farming, stock raising and 
dairying. Politically he has always voted the 
Democrat ticket, and in religion he and his wife 
are members of the Florence Presbyterian Church. 



Thomas Mcdonough, one of the weii- 
known retired farmers of Washington county, 
is a native of the same, born in Somerset 
township, October 27, 1830. 
He is a grandson of Henry McDonough, 
who came from Baltimore, Md., to this county at a 
very early day, when the Indians were so hostile 
that he had to sleep in his rude cabin with his gun, 
pitchlork and axe near his bed, ready for any sud- 
den nocturnal attack. He revisited Baltimore after 
a time, and returning to Washington county after 
a four years' absence, bought a farm and settled 
down to agricultural pursuits. On the occasion of 
his second coming to the county he brought with 
him a slave woman who kept house for him until 
his marriage, after which she remained as a mem- 
ber of the family until she died of sheer old age, 
and was buried in the family lot in Pigeon Creek 
cemetery. Henry McDonough married Jane, daugh- 
ter of 'Squire Hamilton, of "Ginger Hill," west of 
Monongahela City, and tbey became the parents of 
a large family. 

1 )avid McDonough, son of this pioneer, was born 
in Washington county, November 14, 1799, his 
education being received at the subscription schools 
of the neighborhood of his birthplace. He was reared 
to the occupation of his forefathers on the old home 
farm, whereon he lived all his days. On May 16, 
1827, he was married to Levinah, daughter of Adam 
Weir, of West Bethlehem township, and a descend- 
ant of one of the early settlers of the county. Four 
children were born to this union, viz.: Joseph, in 
Somerset township; Thomas, our subject; Adam, 
who died at the age of eight years, and Henry H., 
a practicing physician at Claysville, Penn. In 
1859 the father passed from earth at the age of 
sixtv years. He was originally a Whig in politics, 
later a stanch Republican, and held various town- 
ship offices in the gift of his party. His widow 
survived him until March 2, 1876, when she too 
passed from earth. 

Thomas McDonough received his education at 
the old log school- house of the period. His "A-B- 
C" was learned off what was called a "paddle," 
having the large letters of the alphabet pasted on 
one side of it, and the small letters on the other 
side, and the readers and other books used were 
the Greenleaf and Adams Arithmetic, and Town's 
and Cobb's spellers. His first teacher was Thomas 
Hall, a prominent dominie in his time, the father of 
Gen. John Hall, of Washington. Later Mr. Mc- 
Donough wjs under the preceptorship of a teacher 



under the public-school law — a Mr. Leet, a Wash- 
ington attorney about that time — and his last win- 
ter attendance at any school was for but eleven 
days in a four-months' term. On December 31, 
1858, Thomas McDonough was united in marriaore 
with Jane McGregor, of Nottingham township, 
daughter of William McGregor, a pioneer of the 
county. To this union were born two children, 
who died young, and their mother followed them 
to the grave December 30, 1872. On August 25, 
1874, our subject married Miss C. V. Burgan, of 
Terre Haute, Ind., to which State her parents had 
moved from Washington county, Penn. By this 
marriage there is one child, Alice Gertrude, born 
January 16, 1879. In April, 1891, the family 
moved from the farm into Washington, partly on 
account of Mr. McDonough's health, which had 
become somewhat impaired, and partly in order to 
give his daughter the benefit of the best city edu- 
cation to be had in the county. Mr. and Mrs. Mc- 
Donough are members of the Christian Church of 
Washington, and in his political preferences he is 
a stanch Republican. 



/ 



Hi ENRY SCHOENTHAL, who, by a life of 
plodding industry and judicious economy, 
coupled with keen foresight and character- 
- istic prudence, has risen to no small degree 
of prominence as one of the well-to-do and 
progressive citizens of Washington borough, is a 
native of Germany. He was born May 20, 1843, 
in the village of Sielen, then in the Electorate 
HessenCassel, now in the Prussian Province of 
Hessen-Nassau. 

Levi and Henriette (Hamberg) Schoenthal, his 
parents, were also natives of Germany, the former, 
a shoemaker by trade, born in 1813. They had a 
family of twelve children, nine sons and three 
daughters, two sons dying in infancy. The rest 
are living, two still in Germany, viz.: Jacob, 
living in Cologne, and Rosalie, married to Willie 
Heymann, residing in Geldernon- the-Rhine. Those 
who came to America are Mrs. Hannah Stern 
(widow), and Amalie, married to Elias Wolf, both 
living in Allegheny, Penn.; Felix is in Pittsburgh; 
Julius, in Washington, D. O; Nathan, in Philadel- 
phia; Simon,in Atlantic City; and Isidore and Henry, 
in Washington, Penn. The father died in Germany 
in 1875, aged sixty-two years, the mother in Wash- 
ington, Penn., in 1882, aged sixty-five years. 

Henry Schoenthal attended the school of his na- 
tive village up to his fourteenth year, at the same 
time learning his father's trade, beginning when 
only ten and one-half years old, and working at the 
same until he was fifteen years old. For two years 
after this he took private literary instruction, and 
in the year 1859 was admitted into the Jewish 
Seminary in Cassel, (iermany, an institution where, 



1058 



WASIIlXn TON ror.YTY. 



young men were educated to become teachers in 
Jewish schools, and leaders of the service in the 
synagogue. At the end of the third year he passed 
an examination, and then (taught school for three 
years in one place. In 1866 he came to the United 
States; the rest came later,*at intervals of several 
years. The two youngest, Isidore and Rosalie, 
together with the mother, came with Henry in 
1881, when he returned from a visit to Germany, 
accompanied by wife and two children. Rosalie, 
alter a sojourn of a few years, returned to Germany 
and was married there. Henry returned to "Wash- 
ington after his marriage, as he was in busi- 
ness at that time. He is an Independent in 
politics, with a very warm feeling for the party that 
was good enough for Lincoln, Grant, Garfield, 
Blaine and Harrison. Selecting as his abiding 
place in the land of his adoption the thriving town 
of Washington, this county, he clerked for three 
years in the clothing storejof Jacob Goldsmith, at 
the sign of the " Golden Eagle," in the room now 
occupied by C. A. House as a music store. Then 
in 1869, Mr. Schoenthal bought out the stationery 
business of Rev. James McFarland, at the " Green 
Tree Corner," and has ever since conducted a pros- 
perous and lucrative trade in books, stationery, 
notions, etc., at the same stand. In 1872 our sub- 
ject revisited his native land, and on May 8 of that 
year was there married to Helen, daughter of Meyer 
Lilienfeld, of Gudensberg, in Hessen-Nassau. 
Four children blessed this union, viz.: Madaline. 
born March 16, 1873, died in infancy; Hilda, born 
June 25, 1S74; Lionel, born April 14, 1877; and 
Meyer, born August 12, 1883. He is a member of 
the following secret societies: A. F. & A. M., 
Heptasophs, Royal Arcanum, and Protected Home 
Circle. 



JOHN METCALF is one of the oldest and 
most highly respected farmers of his neigh- 
! borhood. He is of Irish descent, his grand- 
father, Edward Metcalf, being a native of 
Ireland, who emigrated to America in early days, 
and settled on a farm of 1,000 acres in Jefferson 
township, Washington Co., Penn. Edward Metcalf 
reared a family of seven children, of whom his son 
Edward was the fourth in order of birth. 

Edward Metcalf was born about the year 1800, 
and trained to agricultural pursuits, which he fol- 
lowed throughout life. He was united in marriage 
with Miss Margaret Meneely, of Washington county, 
and to their union were born the following chil- 
dren: Jane, John, William, Nancy, Mary, James, 
Margaret, Edward, Sarah, Alexander, Judy and an 
unnamed infant. 

John Metealf (subject of sketch) was born Octo- 
ber 17, 1821, in a log cabin, and reared in Wash- 
ington county, remaining on the home farm during 



his boyhood. On FebruaryS, 1840, he was married 
to Judy Cole. The young people first settled on 
the farm where they now reside. He then moved 
to his father-in-law's farm, lying between Jewett 
and Scio, in Harrison county, Ohio, where they re- 
mained until the death of Mr. Cole. They finally 
returned to the present home in Jefferson town- 
ship, this county, where they have since remained. 
Five children have been born to this couple, namely: 
Moses, Nancy Jane, Edward, John and Margaret 
Ann. Mrs. Metcalf's father was a son of Moses 
Cole, who came from the State of New Jersey and 
settled in Washington county, Penn. Indians were 
numerous in those days. Mrs. Moses Cole (the 
grandmother of Mrs. Metcalf) says that she has 
seen twenty-four Indians pass the house at one 
time, and that she often gave them food and shel- 
ter. Mrs. John Cole is now ninety-three years of 
atre, and makes her home with her daughter and 
son-in-law. 



OWNSEND VAN VOORHIS. This gen- 
tleman traces his lineage back through the 
mist of many years to the days of 1670, when 
three Van Voorhis brothers sailed from 
Amsterdam, Holland, and first landed in the 
strange " Xew World." They settled on Long 
Island, where one brother was killed by a poisoned 
arrow, the other remaining on the island. 

On December 17, 1701, Daniel Van Voorhis was 
born, and to him the present generation in Wash- 
ington county trace their origin. On November 
27, 1724, he contracted a matrimonial alliance with 
Femmyte Bennett, who was born April 4, 1706, 
and they became the parents of the following chil- 
dren: Abraham, Jerome, Ange, John, Cornelius, 
Elizabeth, Femmyte and Daniel. Daniel Van- 
Yoorhis was born July 7, 1728, at Oyster Bay, 
Long Island. He received a thorough education, 
soon evincing an unususl taste for any study per- 
taining to navigation, and many of his books 
treating on that science are yet in possession of the 
family. He was captain of a merchant vessel for 
many years, twice lost his vessel and cargo, and 
was taken prisoner by the British many times. On 
one occasion he was pursued by a British man-of- 
war, and had just raised the flag of surrender, but 
before the enemy saw the signal, a cannon-ball 
tore away the post close by where he was standing. 
The captain was three times married: first to a 
widow lady, Mrs. Britt, who bore him two children: 
Samuel, a successful merchant of New York City, 
who came to this county about 180(1, residing for 
some time in a cabin near the present site of the 
Black Diamond Coal Works ( he afterward moved 
to Bucyrus, Ohio, and died there a few years ago ) ; 
and Sirah, who married John Van Voorhis, and 
died November 17, 1807, near Goshen, N. Y., aged 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1059 



eighty-two years. After the mother of these chil- 
dren died Capt. Van Voorhis was united in marriage 
with Mary Newton. In 1785 he came to Wash- 
ington county, Perm., and bought sixty acres of 
land of one Decker, in what is now Carroll town- 
ship. Some time afterward he moved his family to 
the new home, where his second wife died, I )eoember 
31, 1789, leaving three children: John (deceased 
June 28, 1874, in Muskingum county, Ohio, at the 
atje of ninety-three years), Daniel (who died in 
L852,at the age of sixty- nine) and Abraham (of whom 
further mention will be presently made). The 
mother of this family was the first person interred 
in the Van Voorhis cemetery at Pigeon Creek, 
where four generations of the name are now lying. 
For his third wife Capt. Van Voorhis selected 
Nancy Myers, a native of Hagerstown, Md., who 
bore him one son and one daughter: Elizabeth 
(Mrs. Frye), and Isaac, who was born March 15, 
L794. ('apt. Daniel Van Voorhis was called from 
earth February 21, 1819. 

Abraham Van Voorhis, son of Capt. Daniel and 
Mary ( Newton) Van Voorhis, was born December 
28, 1 785, near Rancocas creek, on the 1 )elaware 
river, in New Jersey. In early manhood he was 
united in marriage with Ann Watkins, a native of 
Washington county, Penn., and their children 
were born as follows. Garret T., born February 
18, 1819, married Hester Frye, died March 20, 
1864; had two children (Abraham and Melinda); 
for his second wife, he married Mary J. Baxter, 
had one son ( Luther T.). Joseph was born August 

27, 1820, died November 17, 1822. Robert, born 
July 21, L822, married Caroline Frye, had one 
child ( Narcissa). Mary born May 5, 1826, died 
January 31, I 863, married Vincent Colvin, had two 
children (Jay and Abraham). Abraham Van- 
Voorhis married, for his second wife, Jane Phillips, 
and had se,ven children: Eliza, Lucinda, John, 
Emeline, Caroline, Serena and Cynthia. Eliza was 
born September 1, 1830, died February 28, L850; 
married Thorton Watkins, had one child (James). 
Lucinda, born August 7, 1832, died June 24, 1840. 
John, born September 6, 1835, married Isa H. 
Teeple, had six children (Charles, Lulu, Carrie, 
Serena, Will and Eva). Emeline, born February 

28, I 838, married Joseph Brown, had five children 
(Van, Samuel, Curtis, Cora and Joseph). Caroline, 
born November 1, 1840, married James Jones, had 
seven children (Endsley, Jennie, Allie, Etta, Rena, 
Emma and Ira). Serena, born July 2, 1843, died 
March 23, 1861, and Cynthia, born January 16, 
1848, who married Cooper Bentley, October 15, 
1868. Of these children Robert is one of the best 
authorities in the United States on all questions 
pertaining to sheep culture, and has contributed 
to the Congressional stock paper an article entitled 
"Diseases of Domestic Animals." John is a system- 
atic farmer and sheep-raiser, having been president 



of the Monongahela Valley Agricultural and 
Horticultural Society. Mrs. Jane Van Voorhis is 
still active and enjoying good health. She has 
for many years been a devoted member of the M. 
E. Church, and resides on the 600 acres of land 
which her husband owned near Monongahela City. 
Townsend Van Voorhis, son of Abraham and Ann 
(Watkins) Van Voorhis, was born February 18, 
1819, as stated hitherto, in Carroll township. He 
received his early education at the old Calhoun 
school, and in 1840 selected a life companion in 
the person of Hester, daughter of Noah and Lucy 
(Colvin) Frye. To this union were born two 
sons: Abraham, living in Kansas, and Butler T., 
residing with his parents. Mr. Van Voorhis owns 
193 acres of land situated four miles from Monon- 
gahela City, and devotes his principal attention to 
stock raising. He has been school director for 
several years. 




ATTHEW WILSON is a prosperous 
stockman and substantial citizen of Can- 
onsburg. He was born November 28, 
1833, in County Antrim, Ireland, where 
he grew to manhood. His early education 
was very limited, as he was obliged to leave school 
at the age of eight years. From early youth he 
was interested in stock, and finally decided to ac- 
company his uncle, George Wilson, on a voyage 
to America. They had a tempestous passage, ar- 
riving in New Vork harbor after a voyage of six 
weeks and three days. They then came by steamer 
to Philadelphia, thence by canal to Pittsburgh, 
from which place they walked to Canonsburo-, 
where they arrived at day-break on November 14, 
L851, the journey having been made in fourteen 
days. Matthew hired out to a farmer for one year 
at $8,00 per month, and at the expiration of that 
time engaged for the next nine months. He then 
began working for a butcher, and purchasing a 
copy-book, slate, pencil and candle, devoted his 
evenings to energetic study. He remained with 
his employer four years, taking charge of the busi- 
ness after the first twelve months. Having saved 
about $600, he then invested in stock, and driving 
them to Allegheny, sold them in three months at a 
profit of $600. 

On April 3, 1856, he was married to Jane, daugh- 
ter of George Wilson, and they have had three 
daughters, namely: Jennie, Mary (wife of S. C. 
Smith), and Martha B. (Mrs Wilson, died Novem- 
ber 11, 1862). After his marriage he took a con- 
tract for furnishing meat to the hands of a new 
railroad then in progress of construction along 
Chartiers Valley, and lost in that transaction $3,000. 
He had good credit and perseverance, so he rallied, 
and in 1863 went into the oil business in Oil City, 
buying and shipping oil from that city t-> Pitts- 



1060 



WASHING TON COrXTY. 



burgh. Losing all the money he had accumulated, 
he came back from Oil City and again started in the 
butchering and stock business, driving sheep and 
cattle over the mountains, and making about five 
trips during the summer, selling the stock in Lan- 
caster and the States of Delaware and New Jersey. 
In 1892 a book was sent to him that had been 
edited and published by a friend of his in regard 
to his life and travels while in the stock business. 
This friend sold the copyright of it for $1,000 to a 
firm at St. Louis, Mo. Of this publication Mr. 
Wilson was entirely ignorant until he received a 
copy of the book. In the year 1886 he took a trip 
to Europe, taking a nephew aged ten years with 
him. They sailed from Philadelphia on the Ameri- 
can Line May 14, making the voyage going in four- 
teen days, and in returning they were on the water 
twelve days. Of late years Mr. Wilson has de- 
voted his principal attention to the butchery, con- 
ducting a very extensive and profitable business. 
He has shipped a large amount of stock to Phila- 
delphia and Xew York, alway realizing a good 
profit from the sales. In politics, he is an active 
and zealous worker in the Democratic party, of 
which he is a valued member. 




OBEPT C. McNARY. This prominent 
and highly-esteemed agriculturist of Cecil 
township, a worthy scion of one of the old- 
est families in the county, deserves more 
than a passing notice in this Biographical 
I ,'iriinl. 

lie is descended from Thomas McNary, who in 
an early day came to North Strabane township and 
bought land. He was a son of James McNary, hy 
trade a shoemaker, who was born in Scotland about 
the year 1711, and, according to tradition, moved 
with his family to the North of Ireland. After so- 
journing there for a time, he and his wife emigrated 
to America, bringing with them their four sons and 
one daughter, some of whom had married in Ire- 
land. In 1760 (so records show) James McNary 
bought a tract of land in York county, Penn., where 
he remained a number of years. He was an elder 
in the Seceder congregation of Guinston, one of 
the oldest congregations of that denomination in 
America. His sons were John, James, Thomas 
and David, all of whom came to Washington 
county; his daughter, .lane, married William Rob- 
ison, anil passed the rest of her life in York county. 
The father of this family also came to this county, 
and lived, up to the time of his death, with his son 
David in Hanover township, dying in 1790 at the 
age of eighty-five years; he was buried in the 
Sec< del churchyard near Paris, this county. 

•fames McNary, father of subject, was born in 
North Strabane township, Washington Co., Penn., 
and. received hjg education at the subscription 



schools of the period. On March 7, 1811, he was 
married to Ann Caldwell, of Washington county, 
and after a few years married life in North Stra- 
bane tbey moved to Nottingham township, where 
they passed the remainder of their days. They 
were the parents of nine children, as follows: 
Mary E., Jane (Mrs. David Templeton), James, 
Eliza (Mrs. James Thome), Robert O, Thomas, 
Samuel, Ann (Mrs. John Fife) and David. The 
father died May 19, 1841, the mother September 
24, 1868. They were for a time members of the 
Seceder Church at Pigeon creek, later uniting with 
the U. P. Church, in which Mr. McNary was an 
elder for years. In his political preferences he 
was a Whig, but voted for the most part independ- 
ent of party. Well-known in his day, he com- 
manded the highest respect in the community both 
in his private life and in his occupation as a pro- 
gressive farmer and stock raiser. 

Robert C. McNary was born in Nottingham 
township, this county, June 17, 1823, his education 
being received at the common schools of his dis- 
trict, where he proved a diligent and apt scholar. 
In early boyhood he commenced working on his 
father's farm, and the lessons then inculcated in 
him proved invaluable to him in after life, and 
have been an important factor in making him what 
he is— a successful practical agriculturist, second 
to none in the county. On May 8, 1845, Mr. Mc- 
Nary was married to Sarah, daughter of Robert and 
Mary McCorkle,of Somerset township, this county. 
The children of this marriage were the following 
named: Mary E. (deceased), Ann (wife of W. B. 
L. Crawford), James, Robert O, Samuel W., Sarah 
J. ( wife of Richard Weaver), John, Houston F. 
and Thomas. After marriage Mr. and Mrs. Mc- 
Nary made their home in Peters township until 
L876, when he purchased his present residence in 
Cecil township. Mrs. McNary departed this life 
October 31, 1878, and was laid to ie"st in the Char- 
tiers U. P. cemetery. Mr. McNary (as was his 
wife) is a member of the Chartiers U. P. Church, 
but was formerly a member of the Seceder Church. 



DAVID GAULT, a representative citizen, and 
| a member of one of the most prosperous 
, pioneer families of Cross Creek township, is 
a grandson of James Gault, who was of 
Irish ancestry, and followed farming for many years 
near Canon sburg, this county. Grandfather Gault 
reared a family of eight children, three sons and 
five daughters. The sons were: David, who lived 
and died in Washington county, and had a family 
who survived him (he was one of the first purchasers 
of lots in Canonsburg); James, who served in the 
war of 1812, and died a bachelor; and William, the 
father of the subject of this sketch, 






'■***•*' 





~€ <s/ c *S& 




WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1063 



William Gault was born on the home farm near 
Canonsburg, Washington county, and was reared to 
agricultural life. He was married to Miss Mar- 
garet Brown, a native of Lancaster county, Penn., 
and seven children were born to their union, viz.: 
James (who died before reaching maturity), Mary, 
Jane, John, William, Samuel and David, all save 
the latter being now deceased. The father died 
in 1816, the mother passing away about 1854. 

David Gault was born February 8, 1815, near 
Florence, Washington county, Penn., and his father 
dying the following year, the family moved to 
Cross Creek township, settling on a farm. David 
passed his boyhood days in gaining an insight into 
agricultural pursuits, and attending for a few 
months in winter time the primitive subscription 
school of the vicinity. But he was chiefly self- 
taught, being a close reader and apt student. At 
the age of twelve years he found himself of some 
assistance, to bis mother, and about this time he 
"worked out" as a hired hand until he was sixteen 
years old, when he and his mother, and his brother 
William, moved to a rented farm near Cross Creek 
village. The following yearWilliam went to Ashland 
county, t )hio, and I )avid was thus left in sole charge 
of the farm, which he conducted fifteen years, his 
mother making her home with him until her remo- 
val to Ashland county, Ohio, where she died. She 
was a remarkable woman, a typical pioneer wife and 
mother, who spun, wove and made all the clothing 
for the family; and to her early teachings her son 
David attributes much of his success. 

On May 22, L845, David Gault was united in 
marriage with Matilda, daughter of James Cook, a 
native of Washington county, Penn., and thev had 
four children, as follows: Georgette, born March 
23, 1846, married to A. H. Kerr, and living in 
Cross Creek village; Henry M., born March 16, 
1848, residing in Plattsmouth, Neb.; James C, 
born December 7, 1850, living in ('ross Creek 
township; and Silas, born April 13, 1S53, a business 
man of Chicago, 111. The mother of this family 
died April 18, 1853, in her thirty -fifth year, and on 
August 15, 1859, Mr. Gault was wedded to Mrs. 
Mary ( Patterson ) Marquis, who has borne him two 
daughters, Alice and Laura (both deceased in in- 
fancy). She was born August 24, 1821, in Cross 
Creek, this county, a daughter of William and Mar- 
garet Patterson, and was married to Newton Mar- 
quis, by whom she had one child, Alvin, who died 
at the age of two years. Mr. Marquis was called 
from earth in 1855. Mrs. Gault is a granddaughter 
of Gen. Thomas Patterson, and her maternal grand- 
father was Aaron Lyle, who represented his Dis- 
trict in Congress. The Pattersons and Lyles are 
very old families in this part of the Keystone State. 
Mr. Gault's farm comprises 300 acres of highly 
improved land, where he carries on general agri- 
culture, including stock raising, making a specialty 
50 



of sheep. In politics he was formally a Republican, 
but since the formation of the party has been an 
active worker in the ranks of the Prohibitionists, 
and he takes an active interest in all public enter- 
prises. In religious connection he and his wife have 
long been members of the Cross Creek Presbyterian 
Church, in which he has been an elder for fifteen 
years, while Mrs. Gault takes an active and sub- 
stantial interest in foreign missions. 



dtAMES H. Mi MURRAY. Among the most 
prominent residents of Peters township, this 
name is an honored one. James McMurray 
was a native of County Donegal, Ireland, and 
when a young man sailed to America. He first 
located near Irisbtown, Allegheny Co., Penn., and 
there followed agricultural pursuits. Soon after 
arriving in this country he married Isabelle Balen- 
tine, a native of the Emerald Isle, who had crossed 
the ocean in early youth. The young people 
settled on a farm in Allegheny county, Penn., 
where the following children were born to them: 
James, Jane, John, William, Nancy (wife of Paul 
Black, of Aledo, 111.), Margaret (living on the 
home farm with her brother Hervey), Esther, 
Mary A., Archie (a farmer in Allegheny county), 
Andrew, Hervey, Edward, an infant son, and ;iu 
infant daughter. Of this family James, Jane, 
William, Either, Mary A., Andrew, and the two 
youngest are deceased. 

William McMurray, son of James and Isabelle 
McMurray, was born in 1817, on the old home- 
stead in Allegheny county, Penn. In early man- 
hood he was married to Jane, daughter of John 
Mouck, of Washington county, Penn. They lived 
on a farm near Noblestown, Allegheny Co., Penn., 
fourteen years after their marriage, then came to 
the home place in Washington county, Penn., 
where the family are now living. William McMur- 
ray was an active member of the Democratic 
party, and held various township offices. He was 
connected with the United Presbyterian Church, 
and gave to that Society a most liberal support. 
He died February 23, 1889, leaving three children, 
viz.: Mary I. (wife of J. C. Crouch), James H.,and 
Eliza Jane (deceased at the age of fourteen years). 
James H. McMurray, whose name opens this 
sketch, was born September 3, 1847, on the farm 
near Noblestown, Allegheny Co., Penn. He came 
to the farm in Washington county when but a lad, 
and there grew to manhood. He was married 
December 24, 1874, to Sarah M. Matthews, who 
was born March 8, 1855, daughter of James Mat- 
thews, a resident of Peters township, this county. 
The young people began wedded life on the farm 
in Peters township where they are yet living. Six 
children have blessed their union as follows: James 
M.G., William W. (who died in infancy), Levi A., 



1064 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Jennie M. (who died at the age of two years), 
George W. and Taniar M. Mr. McMurray has 
been a very successful business man, and now owns 
about 174 acres of land in several tracts. He has 
always taken a lively interest in the welfare of the 
Democratic party, has held many local offices, and 
in religion is a member and elder of the Mt. Pros- 
pect United Presbyterian Church. 



AMUEL LINN. No township in Wash- 
ington county has been more favored in the 
1) matter of tine farm land, and prosperous, 
intelligent husbandmen, than North Stra- 
bane, and a record of the agricultural pre-eminence 
would be uncomplete were the life sketch of 
Samuel [jinn omitted. He is a native of the town- 
ship, born January 30, 1831, a son of Matthew 
and Sarah (Pollock) Linn. 

Matthew Linn was a son of James Linn, a native 
of Scotland, whence, when a young man, he came 
to America with his parents, who made a settle- 
ment in Lancaster county, Penn. Here James 
married Ellen, daughter of Robert Young, of that 
county, and in 1792 came with his family to North 
Strabane township, Washington county, where he 
purchased 300 acres of wild land (the same at his 
death being divided between his sons), on which 
he erected a log cabin wherein were born nearly 
all his children — five sons and two daughters — of 
whom the following is a brief record: William 
settled in West Newton, Penn., and died there; 
Mary married George Ferry, and they settled in 
East Liberty, Allegheny Co., Penn.; Sarah married 
William Hunter; Robert settled on the home farm 
(his descendants moved West); Moses died on his 
portion of the paternal estate; James late in life 
sold out his share in the homestead, and settled 
near Washington borough, on a farm where now 
stands the village of Linntown; Matthew is more 
particularly spoken of further on. The father of 
this family died at the age of eighty-four years. 
He was a member of the Seceder Church (of which 
Dr. Ramsey was the minister), and in politics he 
was an Old-school Democrat. 

Matthew Linn was born in North Strabane 
township, Washington Co., Penn., in 1796, and 
when yet a young man was married to Sarah, 
daughter of Samuel Pollock, their children being 
James, Ellen (deceased), Mary (Mrs. James Bruce), 
Samuel, Martha (Mrs. Lee Crouch), Matthew (who 
died in the army), William, Jane (who married 
James Patterson, and they reside in Nottingham 
township, this county), Harriet (Mrs. Charles 
Pitman, living on the old homestead), and John P. 
(deceased). The parentsdied in Washington county^ 
the father in 1870, the mother in 1876, and they 
are buried at ( 'anonsburg; they were members of 
the U. P. Church. In politics Mr. Linn was a 



Democrat, and held various offices of trust in his 
township; in 1840 he was elected county commis- 
sioner, during the building of the courthouse; from 
the age of twenty-two years until his death he 
served as a justice of the peace; in 1S.V1 he was 
elected a member of the State Legislature, serving 
one term, and for thirty-three years he was in the 
State militia, in which he held every rank, in rotation, 
up to general. 

Samuel Linn received his education at the 
common schools of his district in North Strabane 
township, and on the home farm had a thorough, 
practical training to agricultural pursuits, which 
have been his life vocation, and in which he has 
met with gratifying success. On October 20, 1858, 
he was wedded to Ellen, daughter of James Harbi- 
son, of Allegheny county, Penn., and the names of 
the children born to this union are Surah J. (at 
home), Nettie and Mattie (twins, the former of whom 
is yet living at home, the latter married to James 
Wylie Vasbinder), Nannie (deceased), J. Bruce, 
Clark, Mary (married to A. ]). Weller, of Canons- 
burg ) and Thomas B. Mr. Linn was formerly an 
adherent of the Seceder Church, and is now a 
member of the Chartiers Hill Presbyterian Church. 
In his political associations he is a Democrat. 



T "TERVEY McMURRAY. Among the most 
V—A prominent residents of Peters township, this 

name is an honored one. James McMurray 
I) was a native of County Donegal, Ireland, 

~ and when a young man sailed to America. 

He first located near Irishtown, Allegheny county, 
Penn., and there followed agricultural pursuits. 
Soon after arriving in this country he married 
Isabelle Balentine, a native of the Emerald Isle 
who had come across the ocean in early youth. 
The young people settled on a farm in Allegheny 
county, Penn., where the following children were 
born to them: James, Jane, John, William, 
Nancy (wife of Paul Black, of Aledo, 111. ), Mar- 
garet ( living on the home farm with her brother 
Hervey), Esther, Mary A., Archie (a farmer in 
Allegheny county), Andrew, Hervey, Edward, an 
infant son, and an infant daughter. Of this family 
James, Jane, William, Esther, Mary A., Andrew, 
and the youngest two are deceased. 

Hervey McMurray, whose name introduces t his 
biography, was born May 3, 1S29, on the old farm 
in Allegheny county, Penn. His father died when 
Hervey was a lad of fifteen years, and the care of 
the family fell upon his youthful shoulders. But 
with the indomitable spirit so characteristic of his 
race, young McMurray cheerfully accepted the 
burden, and passed his youth and early manhood 
in supporting the family. On December 13, 1855, 
he was united in marriage with Emily, daughter of 
John Mouck, a prominent fanner of Washington 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1065 



county, Penn. Mr. McMurray had received 1000 
from his lather's estate, and after his marriage 
located on his present farm in Peters township. 
He then invested his capital in a flock of sheep, 
having usually four or five hundred on the place. 
His property consists of 280 acres of land, an ex- 
cellent roller-process mill (known as McMurray's 
mills), a fine dwelling and store-room in Beltz- 
hoover borough (a suburban town of Pittsburgh), 
and an interest in the store-room at Hill's Station. 
In politics he has ever been a stanch member of 
the Democratic party, but has invariably declined 
nominations for official positions. However, he 
was instrumental in having a postoffice established 
at McMurray's Mills, and was the first postmaster, 
which office is yet filled by members of the family. 
Mr. and Mrs. McMurray are the parents of nine 
children, viz.: J. Henry, John A., Mary B., Marga- 
ret J., William J., Emma L., Caroline, Hervey B. 
and Charles R. 



L Mi PS. NANCY POWELL was born in 1829, 
\/| in West" Pike Run township, Washington 
"(I Co., Penn., a daughter of John Deems, 
I — ' whose father, alsonamed John, was a native 
of this county. John Deems, Jr., was 
born and reared on the home farm in West Pike 
Run township, where he grew to manhood. He 
was married to Jane, daughter of Abraham 
Greene, a native of York county, Penn., and who 
moved to Washington county many years ago, 
where he died. John and Jane (Greene) Deems 
reared the following children: John (living in 
Iowa), George, Mark, Uriah, Reason, Susan, Polly, 
Betsey, Martha J., and Xancy, whose name opens 
this sketch. Of this family but two are yet living, 
John and Nancy. The father died in 1833 (when 
Nancy was four years of age), and the mother 
several years later, at the age of ' seventy years. 
She was a member of the Baptist Church; in poli- 
tics he was a Republican. 

Nancy Deems was reared on the home place, 
and in 1848 was married to Edward Yorty, a native 
of this county, who followed farming. To this 
union were born three children, namely: Martha J., 
wife of James Harrison, a farmer of Harrison 
county, W. Va. ; Nancy, married to John Robison, 
a grocer of Brownsville, Fayette Co., Penn.; and 
Clay, deceased. The father was a Republican in 
politics. He died in 1858, and in 1862 Mrs. Yorty 
was married to Joseph Powell, also a native-born 
agriculturist of Washington county. He died in 
1881, since which time his widow has continued to 
reside on the home place, consisting of 114 acres 
of well-cultivated land, equipped with a good resi- 
dence, barn and outbuildings. After the death of 
her husband the farm was for several years con- 
ducted by Clay Yorty, a son of Mrs. Powell. 



Clay Yorty always resided on the home place. 
When a young man he was married to Catherine 
Hill, who bore him six children, namely: Robert 
G., born in 1875; Solomon, born in 1877; Nancy, 
born in 1880; Grace, born in 1882; Blanche, born 
in 1884; and one deceased in infancy. The mother 
died July 2, 1884, at the age of thirty-three years, 
followed by the father in 1801, who passed away 
in his forty-ninth year. In politics he was a Re- 
publican, and was a member of the Masonic Frater- 
nity at Beallsville. Since the death of this son 
Mrs. Powell has cared for his children, who are 
living with her on the home farm. 



|(OHN WILEY DAY. In every vocation of 
life there are those who by dint of " brain 
t I J and brawn " have pushed through the ranks 
^^ of the many and taken positions with the few. 
To the man who without the aid of noble birth or 
bequeathed fortune succeeds in rising to this place 
among his fellows much credit is due, and the 
story of such lives cannot be other than beneficial 
to the struggling youth of the rising generation. 
Among this class our subject finds a graceful 
position. 

J. Wiley Dayjis a descendant of an Englishman 
by the name of George Day, who emigrated from 
England to the United States in the seventeenth 
century. He resided for a time in Connecticut, 
but later made a permanent settlement at Newark, 
N. J., where the descendants became quite numer- 
ous. The subject of this sketch is more immedi- 
ately descended from one Samuel Day, who emi- 
grated from Morristown, N. J., near the middle of 
the eighteenth century, and settled in Morris town- 
ship, Washington Co., Penn., on North Ten- Mile 
creek, northwest of the village of Prosperity, on a 
farm now owned by J. Miller Day. His will bears 
the date of November 27, 1793, probated in 1796; 
he had four sons and one daughter, viz.: Daniel, 
Samuel, Joseph, Benjamin and Joanna. Of these, 
Daniel remained on the land bequeathed to him by 
his father, now owned by J. M. Day; Samuel emi- 
grated to Belmont county, Ohio, where the name 
of Day is quite common; Joseph also settled on 
land bequeathed to him by his father in Morris 
township; Benjamin emigrated in 1812 to the 
northern part of Ohio, near the city of Cleveland, 
where he purchased a large body of land, upon a 
part of which the city has since grown, conse- 
quently becoming quite wealthy. Daniel Day 
died in 1811. He had six sons: Colvin, William, 
John, Stephen, Samuel and Cephas — and three 
daughters: Abigail, Nelly and Electy. 

Samuel Day married Hannah Cooper, who was 
born November 17, 1798, a daughter of Zebulon 
Cooper, of Morris township. The Cooper family, 
which is an old one in this county, came to Penn- 



1066 



WA s 1IING TON COL XTY. 



sylvania from Sag Harbor, Long Island. To the 
union of Samuel and Hannah (Cooper) Day came 
eight children: Maria, born February 27, 1820, 
died in Morris township, September 11, 1861; El- 
mus, born November 23, 1 82 I , now a farmer in 
Muscatine county, Iowa; Emeline, born March 5, 
1824, died September 4, 1883; Josiah, born July 
13, 1S27, is now living in Muscatine county, Iowa; 
Cephas, born April 6, 1830, died May 20, L845; 
Samuel A., born February 25, L835, is now a resi- 
dent of Philadelphia; J. Wiley and Ann Eliza 
(twins), born December 15, 1837 (Ann Eliza died 
August 11, 1845). The father of this family died 
December 18, 1870, and the mother passed away 
September 6, 1878. 

The Day family are represented in various occu- 
pations, and valued for their integrity and public- 
spiritedness. John Wiley Day, though not afforded 
an opportunity for a finished education, is a man 
who has kept well up with the times, and is con- 
versant with all matters pertaining to the public. 
He was a candidate on the Democratic ticket for 
State Representative in the fall of 1890, and, 
though defeated, his popularity is evinced by the 
fact that he reduced the Republican majority from 
1,000 to 123. In 1863 Mr. Day married Caroline 
C, daughter of Joseph Dunn, of Morris township, 
Greene Co., Penn., and of this union were born 
four children: Samuel Cassius, Anna 15., Joseph 
E. and Lizzie II. Their mother died in 1874, and 
in 1876 Mr. Day married Maria E., daughter of 
Thomas Horton, of East Bethlehem township, to 
which union two children have been born: Bessie 
Oraand John W. This wife died July 5,1890. 
Mr. Day is giving his children the educational ad- 
vantages afforded in the schools of that section, as 
thev arrive at the age at which they appreciate it. 
He is an active member of and an elder in the 
Cumberland Presbyterian Church. 



BUTLER HUGGINS, prominent in the agri- 
cultural community, is a son of Jacob Hug- 
) gins, a farmer, who was born in 1700, in 
Greene county, Penn., and in early life was 
married to Margaret Campbell. She was born in 
1702, in Adams county, Ohio, and became the 
mother of eight children, of whom but three are 
now living, viz.: Mutler, William P. and Agnes 
(Mrs. George). Four sons of this family took 
part in the Civil war, Butler remaining at home 
to care for the rest. James enlisted in the I Ine 
Hundred and Thirty-ninth P.V.I. The mother 
passed away in 1863, having met with an accident, 
breaking a limb, which resulted in her death; the 
father died in 1 868. 

Butler Huggins was born April 17, 1820, in Ross 
township, Allegheny county, Penn. He attended 
the schools of Butler county, that State, for ten 



months, and then served an apprenticeship at black- 
smithing, a trade he followed twenty years. On 
August 21, 1S46, he was married to Sarah Harger, 
of Allegheny county, Penn., and four children were 
born to them, viz.: Holmes (married); Emily ( wife 
of E.C.Fulton); My ra (married to William Mo- 
Clure); and John (deceased). The mother of 
these died September 21, IS-"):'!, and May 30, 1855, 
Mr. Huggins married Miss Mary Ann Leslie, a 
distant relative of Frank Leslie, also a cousin of 
\\'.(). Leslie, the noted lawyer of Pittsburgh, Penn. 
Mr. Huggins began life a penniless boy, but by 
dint of tireless industry and perseverance has risen 
to his present enviable position. He was a dealer 
in all kinds of live stock, and of late years he has 
dealt extensively in horses, which business he is 
now following in connection with farmingf. Mr. 
Butler Huggins, it may here be said, is considered 
to be as good a judge of horses as can be found in 
the Keystone State, and it has often been remarked 
of him that " he could see more about a horse by 
walking around him once, than most men could by 
looking at the animal all day." He owns 140 acres 
of fine land in Greene county, and the home farm 
in this county, also containing 140 acres, including 
an undeveloped oil well. A Republican in politics, 
he has served his township as justice of the peace, 
judge of election and road commissioner, filling 
each office with credit to himself, and the entire 
satisfaction of his constituents. 




ISS MARTHA D. TWEED is a repre- 
sentative of another well-known family 
who are prominently identified with the 

■ organization, growth and development of 
Washington county. Samuel Tweed and 
his wife, Jane ( Anderson) Tweed, were natives of 
Ireland, coming to America at a very early date, 
probably prior to the Revolution. They first set- 
tled east of the mountains, afterward moving to 
Washington county, and locating near Buffalo 
village. Their children were John, Robert, Will- 
iam, Samuel, Griselda and Annie. 

Robert Tweed (father of subject ) was first mar- 
ried in 1801 to Elizabeth Wylie, a sister of Adam 
Wylie, M. D., and Rev. William Wylie, 1). D. Of 
the children born to this union, six grew to ma- 
turity, viz.: John, Eliza, Griselda, Nancy, Marga- 
ret and Mary. After the death of his first wife 
September 3, 1820, Robert, was married October 
11, 1821, to Mary Work, daughter of George and 
Martha (Dunlap ) Work. By this marriage there 
were four children, namely: Martha D., Jane, Ann 
and Samuel. Robert Tweed succeeded in rearing 
his large family, and gave each a fair practical edu- 
cation. He was a man of domestic tastes, devot- 
ing little attention to political affairs. In religion 
he and his wife were members of the Upper 






r rt^ /¥/uf^ytJ 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



1069 



Buffalo Presbyterian Church, and endeavored to 
bring up their children in accordance with its 
teachings. He died April 2(3, 1828, aged fifty- five 
years. His widow passed away at the advanced 
acre of over eighty years, July 22, 1809. 

She was a woman of much more than ordinary 
intelligence and business sagacity, and managed 
the farm successfully many years after the death 
of her husband. At the same time she found time 
to inform herself upon all subjects of general in- 
terest, and especially the history and doctrines of 
the Church. She was recognized as one of the 
best informed Bible scholars in the Church of which 
she was a member. 

George Work came to Hopewell township in 
L802, and bought of Mr. Tweed 100 acres of land 
adjoining Buffalo village. In early life he was 
married to Margaret Dunlap, and five children 
were born to them: James, Alexander, John, Jane 
and Mary. 

Of the children born to Robert and Mary 
(Work) Tweed, Jane Tweed was married to 
Thomas Ralston, and only one of her children, 
William (residing in West Middletown), is now 
living; Ann Tweed was married to John McCully, 
and removed to Smithfield, Ohio, where her six chil- 
dren are now residing; Martha D. and Samuel 
were never married, and after the death of their 
parents they took charge of the estate, living on 
the old homestead. Samuel died October 10, 1891, 
aged sixty-six years, and Miss Martha Tweed is 
now the last representative of the family name 
in this county. 



t JlfRS. NANCY C. ROLLSTIN, one of the 
\//\ most popular and intelligent ladies of 

■! I Buffalo township, was born in Guernsey 
I -* county, Ohio, January 8, 1820. She is 
v the daughter of John and Jane (McGuffin) 

Adams. 

John Adams was a native of Ireland, who came 
to America when eighteen years old. He first lo- 
cated in Washington county, Penn., where he spent 
several years as a farm hand. Removing to Guern- 
sey county, Ohio, he invested his savings in land, 
and prepared a rude home in the wilderness. The 
humble "cage" being prepared, he returned 
to Washington county to secure the bird, and 
three months later brought his bride, Miss Jane 
McGuffin, to the pioneer cabin. Together the 
young couple began to build their home, and 
here were born to them the following eight 
children: Thomas, Elizabeth, Nancy C, Mary 
J., Margaret, Ann, William P. and Rebecca E. Of 
these children, Thomas, Elizabeth and Margaret 
are deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Adams passed the re- 
mainder of their days on the old farm, where the 
first years of their married life were spent, and 



where their youngest son, William P., still resides. 
In religion, they were Covenanters of the Old 
School, and the religious training of the family was 
that strict type, characteristic of the denomination. 

Nancy C. Adams, the subject proper of this 
sketch, was first married October 23, 1849, t < > .lames 
McKeown, whose parents emigrated from the Prov- 
ince of Munster, Ireland, when he was one year 
old, or in 1824. In the spring of 1850, the young 
couple located in Harrison county, Ohio, with 
buoyant spirits and bright prospects for the future; 
but, alas! how little we know of what the future 
has in store for us. Only three short months had 
passed since beginning housekeeping, when on 
June 29, 1850, Mr. McKeown, in assisting in tear- 
ing down a frame barn, received injuries from a 
fall which caused his death, July 7, 1850. Mrs. 
McKeown now returned to the home of her parents, 
where her son James A. was born January 9, 1851, 
and where she continued to make her home until 
April, 1858, when she was again married; this time 
to John Rollstin, a son of James Rollstin, of Buf- 
falo township. 

James Rollstin was born in Ireland in 1785, and 
emigrated to this country when quite young. He 
was united in marriage with Miss Nancy McGuffin 
March 29, 1S10, and to them were born five sons 
and eight daughters: William, John, Joseph, Eliza- 
beth, Esther, Rebecca, Jane, Nancy, Martha, 
Margaret, James, Porter and Rachel. Of these, 
only three are now living: Esther (Mrs. Knox, of 
Olaysville ), Martha ( Mrs. McDowell, of Iowa), and 
Rachel ( Mrs. Woods, of Iowa). 

John Rollstin was born December 18, 1812, in 
Buffalo township, and was reared on the farm, re- 
ceiving a common- school education. His first wife 
was Eliza Finley, of East Finley township, and to 
them were born two daughters: Nancy J., born in 
1844, and Mattie E., in 1847. Nancy J. married 
John Allender, and is now deceased; Mattie E. 
married E. H. Stringham, of Ringgold county, 
Iowa, where she now resides. The mother died in 
1856, and Mr. Rollstin afterward married Nancy 
(Adams) McKeown. The children born of this 
union were: Lizzie J., June 4, 1859, and Anna R., 
May 31, 1861. Lizzie J. was married to R. J. 
Me( 'leery, of West Finley township, in the fall of 
1883. She died January 16, 1888. Anna R. was 
married to W. H. Craig in the spring of 1887. Mr. 
Craig died August 9, 1891, since which time Anna 
has made her home with her mother. 

Politically, John Rollstin was a Republican, an 
active supporter of his party, and in religion a de- 
vout and consistent member of the U. P. Church. 
Mrs. Rollstin is also a member of the U. P. Church 
of Claysville, and enjoys the respect of all who 
know her. By the death of John Rollstin', which 
occurred April 6, 1864, Mrs. R. was again left a 
widow. Assuming the management of the farm, 






1070 



WASHINGTON COUXTY. 



her business capacity and thrift enabled her not 
only to support herself and family, besides hiring 
the labor done, but to lay something by for a 
" rainy day." 

Her son, J. A. McKeown, was a teacher in the 
public schools for eighteen winters. In the fall of 
1877 he was united in marriage with Lizzie J., 
daughter of A. K. Craig. Three children were 
born to them, all of whom are deceased. Mrs. 
McKeown died December 2, 1884. Mr. McKeown 
selected, as his second wife, Kthilind Brimner, of 
Burgettstown, with whom he was united in mar- 
riage August 29, 1888. They have one son, Clark 
B., now living. A daughter, Mary L., died June 
22, 1891, aged thirteen months. Mr. McKeown is 
a justly popular young man, winning many friends 
by his recognized ability and genial courtesy cf 
manner. He successfully manages his mother's 
farm, which consists of 100 acres of good land lying 
south of the National pike, in Buffalo township, as 
well as eighty acres of his own in East Finley 
township, two miles south of the home farm, and 
also devotes much attention to stock raising. Po- 
litically, he is a straight Republican, and is now 
serving his second term as county auditor, a po- 
sition for which ha is well qualified, both by natural 
inclination and intellectual training. 




OBERT McKEAN, a successful business 
*/ man of Charleroi, is a son 'of William Mc- 
Kean, who was born and reared in Kirkcud- 
brightshire, Scotland. 

William McKean received his early edu- 
cation in the country schools of his native land, and 
was there married to Mary, daughter of William 
Brown, whose family had been natives of Kircud- 
brightshire for over two hundred years. Mr. and 
Mrs. McKean passed their lives on the home farm 
in Scotland, where the following children were 
born to them, and reared: John, a sea captain, who 
was lost in a wreck in 1837; Mary, wife of Alex- 
ander Magill; William, a farmer of Mansfield, 
Penn.; James, a merchant tailor in Canada Corners, 
Mich.; Joseph, living on the old home place in 
Scotland; Elizabeth, deceased in youth; Andrew, 
living in Scotland; Robert, and Samuel, the last 
named residing in Fayette county, Penn. The 
father was a member of the Established Church of 
Scotland. 

Robert McKean was born March 7, 1 827, on the 
home place in Kirkcudbrightshire, Scotland, and 
in boyhood attended the schools of his native 
parish, assisting also in the duties of the farm. On 
January 1, 1840, he married Janet Caird, who was 
born at New Abbey, Scotland, a daughter of 
James Caird, a native and merchant of the same 
place, and a member of the Established Church. 
The children of Mr and Mrs. Caird were born as 



follows: Janet, wife of Robert M^K-au; John; 
Barbara, wife of Andrew Irving; Agnes, married 
to a Mr. Thompson; James; William; Mary, and 
two whose names are unknown. Mr. and Mrs. 
McKean resided on a farm near New Abbey for 
about one year after their marriage, then set sail 
for America. After a voyage of thirty days they 
landed in New York, in July, 185(1; thence pro- 
ceeded to Newburgh, where they spent a few 
months, going from there by rail to Johnstown, 
finally arriving in Allegheny City. In 1850 he 
worked for four months for seventy-five cents a 
day, and then moved to a place about six miles 
out, on the Steubenville pike, on Chartiers creek, 
where he followed gardening about six years. He 
then passed seven years at Mansfield, farming and 
gardening on a place near that town. In 1865 he 
purchased and moved on 220 acres at Lock No. 4 
(now Charleroi), Washington Co., Penn., having 
paid for this laud with the proceeds of years of 
hard labor. Politically he is actively identified 
with the interests of the Republican party, and in 
religion he and his family are members of the U. 
P. Church. He gives liberally" of his means to all 
worthy enterprises. His children have been as 
follows: James, postmaster at Pittsburgh; William, 
who died in youth; John C. (postmaster), William, 
Andrew, Agnes, Robert and Mary (wife of C. F. 
Thompson). Miss Agnes McKean was the first 
postmistress at Charleroi and also the first telegraph 
operator, receiving and sending the first message 
received or sent from Charleroi. The mother of 
these children died in April, 1890. 



JfUDGE ABRAHAM WOTRING (deceased) 
was a prominent gentleman of Washington 
county, and a representative of an old pioneer 
family. His father, Abraham Wotring, was 
a descendant of French Huguenots, who sailed 
from France in the days of religious persecution, 
to find a home where they might worship God 
according to the dictates of conscience only, and 
in free America they found the object of their 
quest. He was born in York county, Penn., from 
whence he removed to Hagerstown, Md., and there 
purchased a large tract of land upon which he 
lived for some years. He then located in 
Washington county, Penn., on a part of the 
present site of Washington borough, some time 
later moving to the home farm now occupied by 
his descendants. He erected a mill and store- 
room, built an addition to the house, and opened 
a milling business in connection with conducting 
the store and farm. Mr. Wotring entered the 
Revolutionary war at the beginning of the conllict, 
serving until the close. In politics he was a very 
influential Democrat. One son was born to Mr. 
and Mrs. Wotring, Abraham. 



WASHINGTON COUNT?. 



1071 



Abraham Wotring was born in 1804 in Mary- 
land, coming to Washington county, Penn., when 
but ten years of age. He assisted his father in the 
extensive business which he conducted, and in L824 
was unitad in marriage with Elizabeth, daughter 
of Rev. Jonathan Rahauser, one of the first ministers 
of the Gdrman Reformed Church, of Hagerstmvn, 
Md. Some years after the marriage of her daugh- 
ter, Mrs. Rahauser, being a widow, removed with her 
family to Washington county, Penn., bringing with 
them one of the first pianos ever brought over the 
mountains. People came from many miles around 
to hear the wonderful music, and see the unusual 
curiosity which is yet in the possession of the fam- 
ily. Mr. Wotring inherited the land and exten- 
sive business owned by his father, who died soon 
after the marriage of the former. Mr. Wotring 
sold the greater portion of the land, reserving 
about 250 acres of the best to his own use, and 
continuing to conduct the mill and store. To 
Abraham and Elizabeth (Rahauser) Wotring were 
born the following children: Mary (Mrs. Pointlex- 
ter, of Pittsburgh, Penn.), Abraham (living at 
home), Jonathan (a physician of Newark, Ohio), 
Katherine (Mrs. Howard, of Allegheny), Elizabeth 
(living on the home farm), Amelia (also residing 
at home), Frederick (a minister of Rawlins, Wyo- 
ming), Roaanna (Mrs. Clark, of Washington, I ).<'.), 
Francis L. (living on the home place), Dr. Louisa 
Lyle (of Cincinnati, Ohio) and Cornelia (Mrs. Con- 
ger, of Clinton, Iowa). 

After conducting the mill for a number of years 

.\lr. Wotring closed it, and dividing it into r s, 

opened an academy which flourished for some time. 
I ii politics he was originally a Democrat, but after- 
ward joined the Republican party. He served as 
postmaster for some time, was justice of the peace 
lor several years, and was twice elected associate 
judge of Washington county. He was a leading 
citizen, being called upon for advice and counsel 
in many important matters. In religious faith he 
was a member and trustee of the Presbyterian 
Church at Buffalo, this county. He died in 1874. 



P,ARKER S. SPHAR. The Sphar family 
' have been identified with the history of 
Washington county for many years. Mat- 
tern Sphar was born in Switzerland, and, 
in company with two brothers and one sis- 
ter, immigrated to America about 1760, at the age 
of seventeen years. He first settled in Williams- 
burgh, Va., and on April 21, 1767, took the oath 
of allegiance under Queen Anne. He was there 
married to Margaret Shively, and in 1780 came to 
Washington county, Penn., and purchased of one 
Col. Cooke 200 acres on the Monongahela river, in 
what is now Washington county. He took an active 
part in the Whisky Insurrection, and was a soldier 



in the war of 1812. He died about 1822, leaving 
three children, namely: John, Mattern (who moved 
to Adams county, Ohio, thence to Indiana), and 
Henry (who lived in this county). 

John Sphar was born in 1777, in Loudoun 
county, Va., and when but three years of age cime 
with his parents to Washington county, Penn. He 
received a subscription-school education in Allen 
township, and when a young man was married to 
Susanna Redd, a native of Washington county. 
They settled on a farm in Allen township, and 
reared the following children: Mary, wife of John 
Shively, Guernsey county, Ohio; Jacob, who was 
first married to Susanna Wood, and after her death 
to Charlotte Wilson; Elizabeth, wife of Joseph 
Dunlevy; Daniel, who married Mary Speer, and 
lived in Kentucky; Ann, wife of William Spah, of 
Indiana; Barbara, wife of William Hollingshead; 
Mattern, married to Margaret Coy le, of Ohio; Sarah, 
widow of Joseph Beazell, of Allen township; Ra- 
chel, married to Robert Gailey, of Clarion county, 
Penn.; John, who married Lucy Ann Scott, and 
Henry. Of this family three are yet living, viz.: 
Sarah, John and Henry. The father voted first 
with the Whig, afterward with the Republican 
party, and served as supervisor of the township. 
He and his wife were members of the Baptist 
Church. He died in 1856, having beeji preceded 
by his wife in 1852. 

John Sphar was born February 26, 1817, on the 
old place in xVllen township, Washington county. 
In 1839 he was united in marriage with Lucy Ann 
Scott, daughter of Parker and Sarah (Carson) 
Scott, all of whom were natives of Fallowfield 
township. Her parents had twelve daughters, of 
whom Mrs. Sphar is the only one yet living. Mr. 
Sphar owns seventy-five acres of the old home- 
stead, where he has followed general farming. He 
cast a vote for William Henry Harrison, and since 
the organization of the Republican party has been 
one of its most earnest supporters, and has served 
as a member of the school board and also as super- 
visor. He is no less interested in religious than in 
political movements, having been licensed as an 
exhorter and class-leader in the Ebenezer M. E. 
Church, with which his wife is also identified. 
Mr. and Mrs. John Sphar have had children as fol- 
lows: Sarah, wife of William Rodgers, of Fallow- 
field township; Parker S.; Henry, married to a 
Miss McElhaney, of Armstrong county, Penn.; 
James, who died in his twenty-sixth year; John 
E., living in Allen township; Ann, widow of 
Ephraim McKee; Gertrude, married to J. H. Redd, 
and Wesley, deceased at the age of nineteen 
years. 

Parker S. Sphar was born April 9, 1842, in Allen 
township, Washington county, and was reared to 
manhood on the home place. On September 18, 
1862, he was united iu marriage with Sarah R. 



1072 



WASIIINirntX < OCX TV. 



Dunlevy, a native of Allen township, and daughter 
of Andrew Dunlevy. After his marriacre Parker 
S. Sphar located on ninety-six acres of land in 
Allen township, containing a good stone quarry 
adjoining Charleroi. He does an extensive busi- 
ness in building stone, besides general farming. 
In political opinion he is a Republican, and in re- 
ligion he and his wife are members of the Ebenezer 
M. E. Church. Their children are Cora D., wife of 
Ellsworth Redd, of Fallowfield township; William 
A., married to Maggie Williams, of Fallowfield 
township; Andrew and James. 



THOMAS RAMSEY, a prosperous and promi- 
nent agriculturist of Hanover township, is a 
grandson of Robert Ramsey, who was born 
in Maryland and there married to Mary 
Mitchell. Several years before the close of 
the eighteenth century, with his wife, family and 
few earthly possessions, he made the long and 
tedious journey over the mountains, locatincr on 
Peters creek, in Washington county, Penn. In 
1799 they settled in Hanover township, on the 
farm which is the present home of their grandson, 
Thomas. Here they resided during the rest of 
their lives, and became prosperous. In politics 
Mr. Ramsey was a stanch Democrat; he was one 
of the founders of the Seceder Congregation at 
Kings Creek, of which he was an earnest member 
and an elder. Six sons an J nine daughters were 
born to these pioneers, of whom the youngest died 
at the age of thirty-seven years, the first of the 
children to pass away. All were married except- 
ing Nancy, who died in 1827. The eldest son, 
James, became a Doctor of Divinity in the Canons- 
burg Theological Seminary, and for forty years 
was pastor of the Seceder Church in Canonsburg. 
Mitchell Ramsey, who was the thirteenth child 
and youngest son of Robert and Mary (Mitchell) 
Ramsey, was born in 1797 on Peters creek, Wash- 
ington county, being but two years of age when 
his parents came to Hanover township, where he 
grew to manhood. In 1818 he was married to 
Anna George, who was born about 1799, near 
Venice, on Miller's run, in Washington county, 
Penn. Her fatner, Robert George, came from Ire- 
land, and her mother was of German descent. 
The children of Mitchell and Anna Ramsey were 
as follows: Robert G. (living in Carroll county, 
Ohio), James (who died in Carroll county, Ohio ), 
Thomas (whose name opens this sketch), Mary 
(widow of James McGinnis, of Monroe county, 
Iowa ), Christina (Mrs. Alexander George, living 
in Jefferson county, Ohio), William M. (a black- 
smith of Hanover township) and Ann Eliza (wife 
of W. T. Arnold, of Hanover township). The 
parents always lived on the old place, where the 
father followed fanning. He was a prominent 



member of the Democratic party, and held all the 
offices of the township. He died April 17, 1857, 
and was buried in Kings Creek cemetery; his 
widow passed away September 5, 1882, and was 
laid to rest in Frankfort cemetery. He was a mem- 
ber and elder of the Kings Creek U. P. Church, 
was a leading farmer, and took an active interest 
in all measures tending to the public good, being 
recognized as a most useful, able and progressive 
citizen. 

Thomas Ramsey was born January 22, 1823, on 
the farm which he yet owns, and the house where 
he was born is standing as a relic of olden times, 
lie attended the old-fashioned schools of the com- 
munity, and worked on his father's farm during 
boyhood. On November 6, 1801, he was married 
to Jane Slater, a native of Allegheny county, Penn., 
and daughter of John and Margaret (George) 
Slater. This wife died August 3, 18<54, and was 
buried in Frankfort cemetery. She left one child, 
Georgetta, who was but twenty-three days old 
when her mother died, and is yet living at home. 
For his second wife Thomas Ramsey married Nan- 
nie (Hood ) Ackleson, widow of Samuel Ackleson. 
To this union were born three children, viz.: a son 
deceased in infancy; Margaret (who died when 
three months old); and James P. (deceased when 
two years of age). The mother died December 
19, 1874, and was buried in Frankfort cemetery. 
After the death of his father, Thomas ltamsey paid 
off the claims of the other heirs, and took entire 
charge of the home farm where he is now living. 
Fanning has been his principal vocation. In poli- 
tics he has been independent, and has held several 
offices in Hanover township at the wish of his 
friends. For thirty-five years he has been a lead- 
ing member and elder in Kings Creek U. P. Con- 
gregation. At the age of sixteen he was a mem- 
ber of the Frankfort Congregation. 



ly M ARSHAL MATHEWS is descended from 

\f/\ a pioneer family of Washington county, 
■ I l'enn. His grandfather, Paul Mathews, 

I -* married Jane McCorkle, a native of 
v Washington county, and purchased an 

unimproved farm in Peters township. Their 
children were James, Robert, Margaret (wife 
of James Ilultz), Paul, Jane (Mrs. Isaac Weaver) 
ami Sarah (wife of James Riglaud). The father 
was a Democrat in politics, and in religion a mem- 
ber of the Seceder Church. 

James Mathews was born and reared on the 
home farm in Peters township, this county, where 
he followed farming and stock raising. When a 
young man he was married to Margaret, daughter 
of John Bowers, of Peters township, and she bore 
him five children, viz.: Mary J. (wife of Francis 
Kerr, deceased), Marshal, John B., Margaret A. 





QaviAj- 



'M' 



WASHING TO X C O r\YTY. 



1075 



(Mrs. A. J. Kelly), and David (deceased). Mr. 
Mathews was a leading politician in the Demo- 
cratic party. 

Marshal Mathews was born November 26, 
1831, in Peters township, Washington Co., Penn., 
and received a very limited education, as he was 
obliged to assist on the farm a great deal. At the 
age of seventeen years he was apprenticed to John 
E. Bell, a harness and saddle maker of Canons- 
burg, with whom he remained four years, and then 
conducted a shop at Dunningsville, Penn., for two 
years, when he removed to his present place of 
business in Canonsburg. On January lit, 1S.J6, he 
was united in marriacre with Helen P., daughter of 
John Haggerty, of Canonsburg, and they have had 
two daughters: Mary A. (wife of Samuel C. Mc- 
Nary) and Isabelle B. Mrs. Mathews died Sep- 
tember 1, 1883. Mr. Mathews has won success 
by earnest, untiring effort, and well deserves his 
reputation as a successful and representative busi- 
ness man. lie affiliates with the Democratic party, 
and has held various local offices. From the time 
of its organization he has been a member and dea- 
con of the Central Presbyterian Church at Canons- 
burg, this county. 



DEMAS LINDLEY McVAY, an energetic 
\ and prosperous farmer of Morris township, 
I is a grandson of Samuel McVay, who 
moved from New Jersey to Morris town- 
ship, Washington county, Penn., in an early day, 
becoming one of the pioneer settlers of the State. 
Franklin McVay, son of Samuel, was born on 
his father's farm in Morris township, and like his 
father became a successful farmer. He married 
Priscilla, a daughter of Luther Day, of Morris 
township, who was also descended from a pioneer 
family that had moved from New Jersey, and who 
were among the first to secure excellent land in 
Washington county. Franklin and Priscilla Mc- 
Vay had four children: Demas Lindley; Elmas 
D., who was a farmer in Morris township, and died 
in 1868; Samuel B., a farmer of Morris township, 
and Franklin Wallace, a cabinet-maker and under- 
taker, of Jefferson, Greene Co., Penn., who died in 
1882. 

Demas Lindley McVay was born January 13, 
1844, in Morris township, Washington Co., Penn. 
When he was but ten years of age his father died, 
and he and his mother struggled bravely on, en- 
during many hardships, but, nevertheless, they 
succeeded in keeping the fatherless family together 
until they were able. to care for themselves. On 
September 24, 1869, Mr. McVay was united in 
marriage with Mary E., daughter of Thomas Hanna, 
of Morris township, whose family were also pioneer 
settlers of that township, and natives of New Jer- 
sey. To this union have been born five children: 



two that died in infancy; Lee Anna J. and Priscilla 
D., living with their parents; and T. Franklin, who 
assists his father in the farm work. Mr. McVay re- 
sides on the place known as the "Old Hanna farm," 
the property of his father-in-law, but he owns a 
well-improved farm, situated one mile below Pros- 
perity, this county, on Ten-Mile creek. He is a 
prominent stock-raiser, and gives considerable at- 
tention to the breeding and raising of Shorthorn 
cattle and Blacktop sheep. An uncle of his, 
Samuel McVay, was appointed administrator of the 
estate of another uncle, named Nelson, and upon 
the death of the former, D. L. McVay, together 
witli .1. M. Dunn, was appointed administrator, and 
upon them devolved the duty of settling up the 
estate, consisting of $20,000 to $25,000 worth of 
property. The lands, located near Prosperity, this 
county, had been in the possession of the Mc\ ay 
family over sixty years. Mr. McVay enlisted in 
the war of the Rebellion, August 18, L862, in 
Company I, Fifteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, served 
until the end of the war, and now draws a small 
pension. He resided in Franklin township eleven 
years after his marriage. Contrary to the political 
opinions of his ancestors, he has always been a 
straight Republican, and he and his wile are mem- 
bers of the Presbyterian Church, of which he is a 
deacon. 

J. Nelson McVay, an uncle of Dernas P., was a 
native of Morris township, where he passed his 
entire life, and was an extensive landowner. He 
was a lifelong Democrat, and was never married. 
A man of perfect physical strength, he knew noth- 
ing of sickness, until called to cross the dark river 
at an advanced age. 

Samuel McVay, another bachelor uncle of our 
subject, was also a native of Morris township, this 
county, and always remained near the place of his 
birth. He was a strict business man, and took an 
active interest in educational matters, serving as 
secretary of the school board of Morris township 
for several years. 



LEWIS PERSHING, who in his lifetime was 
a progressive and prosperous agriculturist, 
received a good education in the common 
— * schools of the neighborhood of his place of 
birth, and afterward became well-read in history, 
Scripture and standard literature. 

In October, 1851, he was united in marriage with 
Julia Ann Harris, daughter of Joseph and Martha 
Harris, and three children were born to them, of 
whom but one is now living — Frances, who was 
born January 5, 1857. Mr. Pershing was a very 
successful business man. In politics he was a 
Democrat, but voted for men whose principles he 
considered were above reproach, rather than for 
party candidates, and he held several township 



iiw> 



WASHINGTON < 01 XTY. 



offices; in religious faith he belonged to the Meth- 
odist Episcopal Church. He died April 22, 1888, 
and the following obituary appeared at the time in 
a Washington paper: " Lewis F. Pershing, an aged 
and highly- respected citizen of Am well township, 
died in his seventy-third year. lie had been en- 
gaged in farming for a great many years. He 
leaves a widow and one daughter. He was a 
cousin of Judge Cyrus L. Pershing, of Schuylkill 
county, Penn. The deceased was a kind husband 
and indulgent father." 

Mrs. Pershing is a representative of a family 
eminent in Church and State. Her brother, John 
Harris, graduated from Washington and Jefferson 
College, and then removed to Georgia, where he 
has for many years represented that State in Con- 
gress. She is a cousin of Bishop Harris. 



li ¥ i ARPJSON LEYDA, butcher, was born No- 
\—4 vember 15, 1843, in Somerset township, 
Washington county, Penn. He is a son of 
II -* Henry Leyda, whose parents were natives of 
V eastern Pennsylvania, and came to Wash- 

ington county with the earliest pioneer settlers, 
part of the journey having been made on horseback. 
The country was then wild and full of danger to the 
inexperienced traveler, but with undaunted courage 
Mr. and Mrs. Leyda began their humble home in 
Washington county, and Success finally rewarded 
their patient toil. In their pioneer cabin the fol- 
lowing children were born and reared: James, 
George, Henry and Jacob. The father affiliated 
with the Whig party, and in religious faith was one 
of the earliest members of the Presbyterian Church. 
He died on the farm where he tirst settled. 

Henry Leyda was born in Somerset township, 
Washington county, Penn., and was early taught 
the fundamental principles of business success, 
"constant toil and close economy." By following 
this rule he eventually became a most successful 
agriculturist, dealing very extensively in stock, 
lie gave especial attention to raising sheep and 
cattle, shipping large numbers to eastern markets. 
In political matters he voted first with the Whig 
party and afterward with the Republican. When 
a young man he was married to Catherine Myers, 
of Somerset township, who bore him children as 
follows: one deceased in infancy, Harriet (wife of 
Harvey Wilson ), Hannah (married to Albert Har- 
ris), Amanda, Emma ( wile of Anderson Whitman ). 
Lizzie (wife of Thomas * lollins), Harrison, William 
and James. 

Harrison Leyda passed his youth in assisting 
with the duties of the farm, and October 10, L867, 
he married Easther A., daughter of Daniel Swick- 
ard. Her father, who is a prosperous shoe mer- 
chant of Monongahela City, was born November 



26, L816, in Somerset township, Washington county, 
Penn., a son of John Swickard and grandson of 
Martin Swickard, who was born and reared in east- 
ern Pennsylvania. The last named came to Wash- 
ing county among the early settlers, and, locating 
in a log cabin in Somerset township, assisted in 
clearing up and improving the land. He was twice 
married, and to the first union were born the fol- 
lowing children: Matthias, Daniel, Samuel, John, 
Lucy and Sarah. Mr. Swickard, in 1805, moved 
tn Jefferson county, Ohio, where he remained until 
his death. In political opinion he was a Democrat, 
and in relig-ion a member of the Lutheran Church. 

John Swickard was born in 1783, in Somerset 
township, Washington county, Penn., and passed his 
youth on the home place. When a young man he 
married Mary, daughter of John Smith, and the 
young couple continued to reside on the home place, 
where children were born to them as follows: 
Catherine, John, Samuel, Daniel, Mary, Barbara, 
Susan and Margaret. The father was a lifelong 
agriculturist, and a noted hunter and sportsman; 
in politics he voted with the Democratic party. 
The clothing for the family was made from wool 
carded by hand and woven by his wife; she died 
several years ago, and was buried in the Lutheran 
cemetery, where her husband has been laid to rest. 
They were both members of the Lutheran Church. 
Daniel Swickard was educated at the subscription 
schools of Somerset township, his text books being 
limited to the Testament and United States Spel- 
ler, while the log schoolhouse was furnished in the 
usual primitive fashion of the day. In 1811) he was 
married to Harriet, daughter of Abram Leyda (a 
native of Nottingham township), who has borne him 
the following children: John, living in Colorado; 
Mary E., wife of Daniel Berry; Easther A., Mrs. 
Harrison Leyda; Daniel, deceased; James L., liv- 
ing in Meadville, Penn.; A. Y. and David M. Mr. 
and Mrs. Swickard resided on the home place for 
twenty years after their marriage, when he pur- 
chased the Leyda mill in Nottingham township, 
conducting that enterprise for thirteen years, but 
continuing to own the home place. In lSliTi he 
opened a grocery store in Monongahela City, but 
five years afterward sold out, purchasing a furniture 
and undertaking establishment, which fie kept for 
thirteen years. At the expiration of that time he 
opened the shoe store, where he is now carrying on 
a profitable business. He is a representative citi- 
zen, and a stanch supporter of the Democratic 
party; he has served in numerous capacities, and in 
1 855 was elected a county commissioner, which 
office he held three years. In. religious faith lie is 
a member of the Presbyterian Church. 

Alter their marriage Harrison and Kasther A. 
(Swickard) Leyda resided in Somerset township 
for a few years, then came to Monongahela City, 
where he opened his present butchering establish- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1077 



inent. He conducts an extensive business, yield- 
ing a large annual profit. In politics he is a leading 
member of the Republican party. His children 
are Addie, Frank, Fannie, Bert, Edgar J., Annie 
and Harry. 



w 



G. TIK >MPS< >N\ a prosperous farmer and 
stock raiser of Cecil township, is of Irish 
descent, and the youngest son of William 
Thompson, who was born in Ireland. The 
latter immigrated to America in early manhood, 
first locating in Pittsburgh, Allegheny Co., Penn., 
and married Miss Warden of that city, who bore 
him one child, Martha (deceased wife of Moses T. 
Glasgow, of North wood, Ohio). This wife dying, 
Mr. Thompson married Margaret George, a native 
of Mt. Pleasant township, this county. They set- 
tled in Pittsburgh, Penn., where the father died in 
1833, leaving the following children: Christina 
G. (wife of Thomas Slater, of Cecil township), 
II. A. (a banker, of Salineville, Ohio), R. G. (alh<i 
in Saliueville ) and W. G. R. G. enlisted in the 
Sixty-third Regiment, 0. V. I., remaining in the 
service about two years, when he received an 
honorable discharge. The parents were members 
of the Reformed Presbyterian Church. After the 
death of her husband the mother married John 
Slater, settled in Allegheny county, Penn., and 
afterward in Cecil township, this county, where she 
died. 

W. G. Thompson, youngest son of William and 
Margaret (George) Thompson, was born February 
11, 1831, in Pittsburgh, Penn., where he lived until 
six years of age. When sixteen years old he began 
teaching, and continued the profession for many 
years in different schools in Allegheny county. 
He was principal of the Sharpsburg school for four 
years, and in 1858 moved to the farm in Cecil 
township, Washington county, which is now his 
home. ( )n October 15, 1853, Mr. Thompson was 
united in marriage with Christina G., daughter of 
George and Jane (George) Robb, natives of Mt. 
Pleasant township, this county, both of whom are 
now deceased. 

Mrs. Thompson died in 1870, in Cecil township, 
leaving five children: J. S. (a minister of the Re- 
formed Presbyterian Church at Utica, Ohio, mar- 
ried to Jennie Slater), Etta H. (a teacher in the 
Indian Mission at Fort Sill, Ind. T.), Lizzie E. 
(living at home), George R. (also at home) and 
W. T. Knox (attending college at Beaver Falls, 
Penn.). Emma Jennie, the eldest in the family, 
died in 1870 at the age of fourteen years, just one 
week prior to the death of her mother. After the 
death of the mother Mr. Thompson was married, 
August 15, 1871, to Lizzie C. Shane, a native of 
Allegheny county, and daughter of Henry and 
Margaret (Musser) Shane, who were born near 



Nublestown, same county. Both are now deceased, 
and the mother was blind many years before her 
death. W. G. Thompson bought a partially im- 
proved farm in Cecil township, containing 111 
acres, which he has cultivated to the highest ex- 
tent, and on which he has erected a commodious 
house and barn, put out shade trees, and planted a 
good orchard. After coming to Washington county 
Mr. Thompson taught three winters in Cecil town- 
ship, two winters at Venice, and one in the home 
district, but he has devoted his principal attention 
to agricultural pursuits. He and his wife are mem- 
bers of the Reformed Presbyterian Church in 
Chartiers township, this county. 




RS. CATHERINE McKEE. Hugh Mc- 
Kee (deceased) was a son of John and 
Mary (Seaborn) McKee, who were natives 
of eastern Pennsylvania and who moved 
manyjyears ago to Westmoreland countv, 
Penn., where they died. The father was a soldier 
of the Revolution, and also participated in the war 
of 1812. They were the parents often children. 

Hugh McKee was born in 1800, in Chambers- 
burgh, Franklin Co., Penn., and coming with his 
parents to Westmoreland county, Penn., was 
there reared and educated. On January 29, 1829, 
he was united in marriage with Catherine Lutz, a 
native of eastern Pennsylvania, and daughter of 
Martin and Catherine (Cliue) Lutz. Her parents 
were born in eastern Pennsylvania, and came to 
Westmoreland county in an early day. Mr. 
and Mrs. McKee resided on the home place until 
1837, when they moved to Washington county, 
Penn., and in 1842 bought 150 acres of the 
" I )ixon place," and sold fifty acres. 

In politics Mr. Hugh McKee was actively identi- 
fied with the Democratic party, and in religion he and 
his wife were members of the Presbyterian Church. 
Their children were as follows: Margaret (wife of 
of Richard Ward, was born in 1832), John, Anna, 
Thomas, Mary (wife of Jehu Dunlevy), Anna, 
(married to James Bailey), Sarah Jane (wife of 
Bartemus Dunlevy), Catherine, and Ephraim (who 
was married to Annie, daughter of John Sphar). 
The children of this family are all now deceased, 
and the father passed away January 3, 188(3. 
Mrs. McKee, who is now the only living repre- 
sentative of the family, is living on the home farm 
in Allen township. 



J (AMES B. HAMILTON was born September 
1 24, 1854, in Nottingham township, Washing - 
| ton county. He is a son of Henry Hamilton, 
who was born in 1816, in Nottingham town- 
ship, and received his education in the schools 
of the home neighborhhod. After leaving school 



1078 



WASHINGTON (OCW'TY. 



Henry learned the blacksmith's trade, and follow- 
ed that vocation until 1869, when he began to carry 
mail from Bentleyville to Pittsburgh. He continued 
in this business four years, then followed huckstering 
alone the river. In 1847 he was united in marriage 
with Margaret A. Morrow, who was born in 1828, in 
Allegheny county, Penn., and seven children were 
born to them, namely: Margaret (deceased), David, 
Carrie (Mrs. Nelson, deceased), James B., Alex 
ander, Jane (Mrs. Smith), and William. The 
father of this family died June 21, 188*5, and was 
followed by the mother on October 24, 1890. 

James B. Hamilton attended the schools of the 
county, and learned afterward the blacksmith's: 
trade of Henry Watson, in Houstonville. On Novem- 
ber 6, 1881, he was married to Miss Minnie B., 
daughter of Simon C. Wolf, a prosperous black- 
smith and ex-soldier of Washington county. Mr. 
and Mrs. Hamilton have had born to them children 
as follows: Simon W., William Glen, Lulu M. and 
Paul. Mr. Hamilton has continued to follow his 
trade, and is a very successful business man. 




IIS. ELIZABETH B. CALDWELL. 

This highly esteemed lady is the widow 
of George J. Caldwell, and daughter of 
Alexander Borland, whose father, Andrew 
Borland, a native of Ireland, immigrated 
to the United States at an early day. In 1824 he 
was united in marriage with Elizabeth, daughter 
of Alexander McClure, and children as follows 
were born to their union: Alexander, Mary E., 
Rebecca, Margaret A., Elizabeth, Sarah, Catherine, 
Andrew, Martha, Rachel and James, of whom 
Rebecca, Catherine, Martha and Rachel are now 
deceased. The father of this family followed farm- 
ing during his manhood on the old Borland place, 
with the exception of about six years, and died in 
I860, the mother passing away April 10, 1889. 

Alexander Borland, eldest son of Andrew and 
Elizabeth Borland, was born December 10, 1825, 
on the farm in Peters township, Washington Co., 
Penn., where he grew to manhood. In early life 
he married Margaret Jane, daughter of James and 
Agnes Crawford, who were the parents of nine 
children, namely: William (deceased), Sarah, 
Andrew (living on the old homestead in Peters 
township), Tamar, Mary Ann, Agnes, Elizabeth, 
Margaret Jane (Mrs. Borland) and Priscilla: of 
whom Andrew and Margaret Jane are the only 
ones yet living. To the union of Alexander and 
Margaret Jane ( Crawford) Borland the following 
children have been born: James Crawford, Eliza- 
beth McClure ( Mrs. Caldwell), Andrew Alexander, 
Mary Agnes and Elmer Ellsworth (the last 
named being deceased). In 1876 Alexander 
Borland purchased his present home of 113 acres 
in North Strabane township, all being under culti- 



vation. In political opinion he votes with the 
Democratic party, and he has held various positions 
of trust in North Strabane township. In religious 
faith he is a member of the U. P. Church, and a 
ruling elder in the same. 

On October 17, 1878, Elizabeth B. Borland was 
married to George J. Caldwell, a son of Joseph, 
and a grandson of William Caldwell. The latter 
was born in Ireland, where he was reared, and in 
an early day he emigrated to America, coming at 
once to Peters township, Washington Co., Penn., 
where he made a settlement and followed his trade, 
blacks inithing, in connection with farming. He 
married Jane Hazelett, and their children were 
.Margaret, Ann, Jane, Elizabeth, Mary, Nancy, John, 
Robert, William and Joseph, all now deceased. 
He was an active man up to the time of his death, 
and a prosperous agriculturist, a member of the 
Centre Presbyterian Church, and in political faith 
a stanch Democrat. 

Joseph Caldwell, son of William and Jane 
(Hazelett) Caldwell, was born and reared in Peters 
township, this county, and received a liberal educa- 
tion at the subscription schools. In March, 1840, 
he was united in marriage with Agnes, daughter 
of George Johnston, of Allegheny county, Penn., 
whose wife was Jane McMachen, their children 
being Robert, Agnes, Sarah J., Mary, Margaret, 
Catherine, Tamar and George. Mr. Johnston was 
a carpenter and builder, a major in the Slate 
militia, a 1 >emocrat of the old school, and a member 
of the Centre Presbyterian Church. After mar- 
riage Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Caldwell settled on the 
home farm where he passed the remainder of his 
days, and where his widow is yet living. Their 
children were George J., Jennie ( Mrs S. N. Hop 
per), Lizzie ( Mrs. Finley D. Brown), Annie M. 
( Mrs. William P. Hopper) and Ada. The father 
of this family passed from earth April 14, ls7o. 
He was a self-made man, enterprising and highly- 
respected. As an agriculturist he had no superior, 
and he was a leading wool farmer in his township. 
In church connection he was a Presbyterian, a 
member of the Society at Centre, and his political 
leanings were of the solid Democratic type. 

George Johnston Caldwell, son of Joseph and 
Agnes (Johnston) Caldwell, was born January 
26, 1851, on the old farm in Peters township, where 
his widow is yet living. He assisted his father in 
farming until the death of the latter in 1875, 
when he, by his father's bequest, took entire charge 
of the farm. He was a standi supporter of the princi- 
ples embodied in the Democratic party, and for 
twenty-one years filled the office of school director. 
In religion he was a member of Centre Presby- 
terian Church, and taught the same class in Sunday- 
school fifteen years. As a farmer he had no superior; 
as a neighbor he was universally esteemed. His 
hand was ever opeu to the needy, and his heart to 




•f 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1079 



sympathize with the afflicted. His devotion to his 
family was untiring. By tireless energy he suc- 
ceeded in paying off the rest of the heirs, and 
clearing the farm of that encumbrance, hut the 
task proved too much for his bodily strength; 
consumption made inroads on his system, and 
despite the efforts of skilled physicians, his spirit 
winged its way to God on Sabbath morn, October 
20, L889, leaving the entire community to mourn 
his departure from among them. His widow and 
twn sons — Joseph H., born August 9, 1879, and 
Alex. Borland, born September 23, 1881 — still live 
on the farm containing about 200 acres of fertile 
land. 

No family is more worthy of honorable mention, 
or has been more closely identified with the 
interests of Washington county, than that bearing 
the name of Caldwell. 



I 



!] J. AGNEW is descended from a represen- 
4\ tative family of Washington county, and is 
a grandson of Samuel Agnew, who was born 
J in eastern Pennsylvania, and there married 
to a Miss Elizabeth Johnston. In 1780 they left 
York county, Penn., locating in Washington county, 
where in 1785 he. secured a patent for two tracts 
of land, each containing 400 acres, located on 
George's run, a branch of Chartiers creek. The 
warrant was issued in 1785, one part being the 
property of Matthew Henderson, who sold it to 
Mr. Agnew t lie following year. Samuel Agnew 
passed his life on this place, and died in 1819. He 
was a Whig in politics and served his party as a 
member of the State Legislature, having previously 
been justice of the peace in his district, which in- 
cluded several townships. In religious connection 
he was a member and elder of the Seceder ( now 
the United Presbyterian) Church. 

Samuel Agnew was born in 1767, in eastern 
Pennsylvania, and in early manhood was united in 
marriage with Elizabeth Mitchell, who was born in 
1778, in eastern Pennsylvania. He settled in 
Washington county about the year 1786, on the 
farm in Chartiers township, where children were 
born as follows: John (deceased in 1863); Samuel 
(who died in 1826); James (married to Nancy 
Jane Buchanan, who died leaving two children: 
James, living in Alt. Pleasant township, and Nancy 
Jane, wife of William Stewart; after the death of 
the mother James Agnew was married to Alargaret 
Brown, now deceased, then to Alargaret Aiken, 
who is living in Alt. Plesar.t township. He died in 
1880); Joseph (deceased in 1885, married to Aliss 
Alary Peterson); Eliza Jane (deceased in 1883, wife 
of Matthew White); E. J. (a sketch of whom fol- 
lows), and Thomas (deceased in 1870, married to 
Sarah Dougherty). Samuel Agnew was a Jack- 
soniarj Democrat, holding several township offices 



and taking an active part in the political questions 
of the county. In religion he first united with the 
Seceder (now the U. P.) Church, officiating as an 
elder for several years. He died in 1839, being 
followed by the mother in 1850. 

E. J. Agnew was born Alarch 30, 1814, on the 
home farm in Chartiers township, receiving a lib- 
eral education in West Aliddletown Academy, and 
afterward attending AVashington College for a 
short time. In 1837 he began teaching in the 
county schools, having previously held the position 
of assistant teacher in the AVest Aliddletown Acad- 
emy for a year or two, and also teaching one year in 
Muskingum county, Ohio. On September 1, 1841, 
he was married to Aiiss Ann White, a native of 
Canton township, this county, daughter of Ebene- 
zer and Jane (Nesbit) White. The parents were 
born in Alaryland, and coming to Canton township, 
AVashington county, remained there until their 
death, which occurred many years ago. Mr. and 
Airs. Agnew settled on the farm which is their 
present home, and four children have completed 
the family circle, namely: Jennie (wife of Thomas 
Shaw), Lizzie (living at home), Samuel E. (mar- 
ried to Anna Allison, has one son, Samuel), and 
Annie (Airs. AVilliam Russell, of Alt. Pleasant town- 
ship). E. J. Agnew has erected a good two-story 
frame house, two barns, sheep sheds and other 
buildings upon his farm, to the value of $4,000. 
His farm contains 118 acres of most productive 
land, and is one of the best improved farms in 
Chartiers township, upon which there is a good gas- 
well in operation. It has now been in the posses- 
sion of the family 106 years. Air. Agnew has set- 
tled seventeen estates in the vicinity of his home, 
and has been a very active man in all matters of 
public and educational interest, having served 
thirteen years as school director and secretary of 
the board. In politics he is a Republican. In re- 
ligion he is a member and elder of the Cross Roads 
United Presbyterian Church. Although seventy- 
seven years of age, Air. Agnew reads and writes 
without the use of glasses, having never required 
their aid, and is in moderate health, being even yet 
an active and enterprising citizen. His wife died 
in the summer of 1883, at the age of sixty-three, 
after a married life of forty- two years. 



JfOHN J. HOFFAIAN, a representative, wide- 
awake successful agriculturist of Amwell 
township, was born January 24, 1856, in 
Washington township, Greene county, Penn. 
His grandfather, George Hoffman, came to Greene 
county at an early day, and took up 250 acres of 
land. He married a Aliss Frye, and they had three 
sons and four daughters, as follows: Peter (de- 
ceased), George, Abraham, Alahala (Airs. AlcCarl), 
Sarah (Airs. Cameron), Airs. Smith and Mrs. Eliza 



1080 



WASHINGTON COCXTY. 



Hedley. Mr. Hoffman was a successful business 
man, and in his political predilections always up- 
held the principles of the Democratic party. 

George Hoffman, son of George, was born April 
2, 1S17, in Washington township, Greene county, 
Penn., and received bis education in the common 
schools. Although his educational opportunities 
were limited, he was an earnest Bible student, 
making himself familiar with all its truths. He 
was united in marriage with Susan Stegner, of 
Greene county, Penn., who formerly lived near 
Philadelphia, and the following children were born 
to them: Jane (Mrs. Ross Johns), George, Thomas 
and John J. Immediately after his marriage Mr. 
Hoffman began farming for himself, which vocation 
he followed very successfully, and in connection 
engaged to a considerable extent in sheep raising. 
At one time he had about 1,450 acres of land in 
his own name, after giving his sons a generous 
portion to start them in life. He is not a politician, 
but has held several offices of trust in the township. 
In religious faith he is a member of the Baptist 
( 'hurch, and has been one of the most faithful 
workers in that body. 

John J. Hoffman passed his earlier years at home, 
working on the farm in summer, and attending the 
common school during the winter. He attended the 
academy at Jefferson, Greene county, one term. On 
November 16, 1876, he was married to Miss Alice 
Swart, who was born April 20, 1857, in Amwell 
township, this county, a daughter of George and 
Elizabeth Swart, and to this union has come one 
son, George Clarence, born May IS, 188(3. Imme- 
diately after their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Hoffman 
settled on the farm adjoining his father's in Greene 
county, Penn. (formerly owned by Samuel Bra- 
den), and remained there until the fall of 1890. 
They then removed to the farm of 182 acres in 
Amwell township, this county, where they now re- 
side. Mr. Hoffman is also the owner of 287 acres 
in Greene county. He and his family are honored 
and useful members of the Baptist (Jhurch, and in 
politics he is a straight Democrat, liberal in his 
views, and voting more for principle that for politi- 
cal influence. 



THE McPEAKE BROTHERS, partners in one 
of the leading groceries of Canonsburg, are 
representatives of a prominent pioneer 
family. Thomas McPeake, the grandfather, 
was a native of Ireland, but came to America, 
with his parents, at age of seven years. His parents 
located in Washington county, Penn., where he 
was brought up and learnt d shoemaking. In L810 
he married a Miss Updegraff; he served in the 
war of 1812. He was a Whig in politics, and in 
religion was a member of the Union Church, but 
afterward became a Methodist. His children 



were, in order of birth, Harman, Harriet, Margaret, 
Nancy, William, John, Mary, Henry C, Eliza and 
James. 

Henry C. McPeake was born in 1 S'JT, in Canons- 
burs', where he was reared to manhood. He was 
one of the best known teamsters on the celebrated 
Pittsburgh Turnpike. He then conducted a grocery 
store for ten years, and selling out engaged in 
speculation for two years, finally resuming the 
grocery business, which he followed for six years, 
and then he retired from active life. In early 
manhood he was married to a Miss Bacon, who 
bore him the following children: Stewart, Mary E., 
Harry, George C. and Oliver. Mr. McPeake was 
very successful in business and in politics was a 
prominent member of the Republican party, hold- 
ing various local offices. He possessed a kindly 
disposition, and was a liberal man. 

Stewart McPeake is the senior member of the 
well-known firm of McPeake Brothers in Canons- 
burg, and is yet unmarried. His brother, George 
('., is the junior partner, and is married to Agnes, 
daughter of S. B. Thompson. The two brothers 
commenced business in a modest way three years 
ago on Pike street; but by industry and good 
management soon increased their custom, and 
being compelled to seek larger quarters moved to 
their present location in 188U. Both are stanch 
members of the Republican party. 



L 



EAMON J. BROWNLEE, a highly esteemed 
and prominent young citizen of Hopewell 
township, is a representative of an old pio- 
neer family, who have been potent factors 
in the affairs of Washington county for more than 
a hundred years. His grandfather, Archibald Brown- 
lee, was the second son of James Brownlee. James 
Brownlee was of Scotch ancestry, his father having 
been born and reared in Scotland, where he (the 
father of James) was married to a Miss Hamilton, 
and reared children as follows: James, William, 
John, Archibald, Thomas, Jane (Mrs. John Allison), 
and Hugh (who died on the ocean). This family 
immigrated to America about the year 1765, first 
settling in Lancaster county, Penn., and in 1775 
made a permanent home in Canton township, Wash- 
ington county. The father was formerly a member 
of the Scotch Presbyterian Church, afterward be- 
coming a Seceder. 

James Brownlee was born January 1, 1745, in 
I ianarkshire, Scotland, and after coming to America 
learned the trade of a millwright, which he followed 
several years in eastern Pennsylvania, then settled 
on a farm in Canton township, Washington county, 
where the remainder of his life was passed. In 
early manhood he was united in marriage with Jane 
Leman, a member of a pioneer family of Washing- 
ton county, who hail emigrated from Ireland, The 



Ti*. I S/IIX); TON COUXTY 



1081 



following children were born to their union: John, 
born October 1">, 1777; Archibald, born February 
28, 17711; .lames, born September 27, 1780; Hugh, 
born July 23, 1782; Elizabeth (Mrs. Daniel Brown- 
lee), born .May 17, 1784; William, horn January 
13, 1786; Thomas, born December I, 17S7; Sam- 
uel, born August 9, 17NSJ; Joseph, born August 8, 
17'.U; Jane (wife of Kenneth McCoy), born April 
20, 1793; and David, born April 8, 1797. The 
home of Mr. Brownlee was situated two miles west 
of Washington borough. He was a member of 
and ruling elder in the Seceder Church at North 
Buffalo, and in politics was a Whig. He died in 
1822, and was buried beside his wife, who had pre- 
ceded him. 

Archibald Brownlee (grandfather of our subject) 
was born cm the old National pike, three miles west 
of Washington. In early manhood he was married 
to Mary Clark, of Washington county, Penn., who 
bore him children as follows: James, Joseph ( who 
removed to Morrow county, Ohio), John, Clark 
(who moved to Morrow county, Ohio), Samuel, 
Elizabeth (wife of Dr. Hayes, of Taylorstown, 
this county) and Jane (married to a Mr. Shunk, a 
merchant of Morrow county, Ohio). Mr. Brownlee 
was an energetic man, and possessed much influ- 
ence in his neighborhood. He served as justice of 
the peace, and was employed in various capacities 
as an authority in legal matters. In religion he 
was a member and ruling elder of the Presbyterian 
Church in Claysville, this county. He died in 
1^1 l,and his widow remained with her son Samuel 
until the time of her death, which occurred about 
1S63. - 

John Brownlee was born in 1807, in Chartiers 
township, this county, remaining on the home place 
during his boyhood. The family afterward re- 
moved to a farm two miles below Taylorstown, in 
Buffalo township, this county, where he remained 
until forty years of age. He was then united in 
marriage with Sarah E. Logan, and settled on a 
farm about two and a half miles south of West 
Middletown, in Hopewell township. His children 
were Newton (who died in early manhood), Jennie 
( wife of Dr. J. N. Bemis, of West Middletown, 
Penn.), Alice (deceased), Leamon J., Frank S., 
and Harry H. (a resident of Claysville, this county). 
John Brownlee was a man of limited literary at- 
tainments, but possessed unusual intelligence and 
instinctive perception, combined with excellent 
judgment. He was of a retiring disposition, shrink- 
ing from publicity, but though reserved in common 
conversations, was fond of profiting by the wisdom 
of others, and among his friends became a genial, 
open-hearted man. He always attended church, 
and in the latter part of his life united with the 
United Presbyterian Society at West Middletown. 
Being always an upright, God-fearing man, his life 
was governed by the dictates of his conscience 



rather than Church tenets. He was a successful 
business man, and accumulated considerable prop- 
erty. In politics he was a Republican. In 1887 
he left his farm, removing to West Middletown, 
where he died January 31, 1892, at an advanced 
age, never having required the services of a physi- 
cian. His widow is residing in West Middletown 
with her daughter, Mrs. Dr. Bemis. 

Leamon J. Brownlee, son of John and Sarah E. 
(Logan) Brownlee, was born April 28, 1860, in 
Hopewell township, passing his boyhood on the 
farm, where be received a common-school educa- 
tion. He afterward attended the Commercial Col- 
lege at Pittsburgh, Penn., and then returning to 
the old homestead, engaged in farming. On Octo- 
ber 18, 1888, he was united in marriage with Mary 
F. Scott, daughter of J. Finley and Margaret 
A. Scott, of Canton township. Immediately after 
their marriage the young people settled on the 
farm where they are now living, which is situated 
two and a half miles southeast of West Middle- 
town. He has made many improvements upon the 
place, and has erected a handsome two-story mod- 
ern dwelling, a large barn and other buildings. 
Mr. and Mrs. Brownlee have two bright little 
daughters: Nellie and Alice. Mr. Brownlee de- 
votes his principal attention to wool growing and 
Stock raising; in politics he is a Republican, but 
confines his political work to the ballot. Mr. and 
Mrs. Brownlee are members of the United Presby- 
terian Church in West Middletown. 




WILLIAM J. JOHNSTON. The record 
of successful business men needs no 
introductory preface among the citizens 
of their native county, and this gentleman 
is undoubtedly a leading member of the class just 
mentioned. His ancestors were of Irish origin, 
the first of the family to emigrate being one John 
Johnston. He and his family sailed to America, 
locating near the present site of Pittsburgh, in 
South Fayette township, Allegheny Co., Penn. Of 
those early days many traditions have been given 
us, describing the dangers and sufferings endured 
by our forefathers. The Indians in many instances 
were very hostile, and wreaked bitter vengeance 
on the presumptuous palefaces who dared to cross 
their path. Three sons were born to Mr. and Mrs. 
Johnston, viz.: William, Thomas and John. 

John Johnston was born in 1802, and his youth 
was passed amid the scenes and duties of pioneer 
life. He was married to Elizabeth, daughter of 
Thomas Roy; she was born in County Down, 
Ireland, and came to America with her parents 
when a little girl. Seven children were born to 
John and Elizabeth Johnston, namely: Rachel 
(deceased), Margaret (deceased wife of Joseph 
Campbell, of Alleghenyjcounty ), infant, Elizabeth 



1082 



WASH ISO To X ( OCXTY. 



(Mrs. William Bowman), .lames, William J., and 
Mattie J. (wife of AN". P. Morgan, of Canonsburg). 
The father died in 1853. 

William J. Johnston was born March 16, IS 1 "J , 
in South Fayette township, Allegheny Co., Penn., 
where he remained until 1866. He and his 
widowed mother then came to a farm in Wash- 
ington county, Penn., where he worked until the 
Civil war opened. In 1862 he enlisted in Company 
1), under Col. Stone, One Hundred and Forty-ninth 
Regiment, P. V. I., serving three years. He was 
with the army of the Potomac at the battles of the 
Wilderness, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, and many 
others of equal importance. At the close of the 
struggle be returned to the farm in Washington 
county, Penn., and February 26, 1874, was mar- 
ried to Ella J., daughter of Hugh McDowell. 
They began wedded life on the farm in Peters 
township, which is now their home. Five children 
have been born to them, viz.: Eva L., John E., 
William McDowell, Bessie M., and Warren Blaine. 
The home place contains 202 acres of fertile, well- 
cultivated land, and Mr. Johnston is extensively 
engaged in the dairy business, usually keeping 
twenty-five cows on the farm. Politically, he 
advocates the principles embodied in the Repub- 
lican platform, but has invariably declined to 
accept office. He is a member and trustee of the 
United Presbyterian Church of Canonsburg. 



f^j AMUEL FRYE. The Frye family, of which 
this gentlemen is an honored member, are 
numbered with the earliest and must promi- 
nent citizens of Washington county. The 
first of the name to settle in Pennsylvania was one 

Sa 1 Frye, who was born, in 172_9,-in Virginia, 

and was there married to Christina Speers, also a 
native of Virginia, born in 1752. They came over- 
laud to Washington county in a very early day, 
and July 19, 1792, took a "tomahawk right" to a 
luge tract "f land in Fallowfield township. He 
was a famous hunter, and also worked on his farm, 
remaining in the fort at night for protection from 
the Indians. He died in 1814, and was followed 
by his wife November 9, 1841. 

Abraham Frye, son of Samuel and Christina 
(Speers) Frye, was born in 1792, on the home 
farm in Fallowfield township, Washington Co., 
Penn. He received a subscription-school educa- 
tion, and in early life was married to Isabella 
Ringland, a native of Washington county. She 
bore him eleven children, namely: Samuel, living 
in Allen township, Washington county; John, also 
living in All.-n township; Christina, Mrs. Abraham 
Colvin, of Fallowfield township; Abraham, who 
entered tin; U. S. service in Washington county, 
and is now living near Nashville, Tenn.; Henry, a 
i evident of Sumner county, Tenn., on the Cumber- 



land river; Noah, who died in Fallowfield town- 
ship; Sarah, wife of Thomas McGowan, Lock No. 
4, Fallowfield township; Jackson, living in Cowley 
county, Kans. (he enlisted in the Civil war, was 
taken prisoner, and confined in Andersonville pris- 
on eleven months); Clarissa, who married Alexan- 
der Allman, and died in East Pike Run township; 
Smith, living in Fallowfield township, and Isabelle, 
wife of Elgy T. Van Voorhis, of Kansas City, Mo. 
After their marriage Abraham and Isabella Frye 
settled on the upper ^>art of the old homestead in 
Fallowfield township. He was actively interested 
in public matters, and first affiliated with the Dem- 
ocratic party, then becoming a Whig and Repub- 
lican. He died Decamber 11, 1866, followed by 
his widow April 12, 1881, she having lived to see 
her youngest daughter the mother of twelve chil- 
dren. Both parents were members of the Disciple 
Church. 

Samuel Frye, the eldest son of Abraham and 
Isabelle Frye, was born July 1, 1814, in Fallow- 
field township, Washington county. He attended 
the subscription schools of that township, held in 
the log cabin schoolhouse of the period, furnished 
with puncheon floor, slab seats, and gla/.ed paper 
in lieu of windows. After leaving school he taught 
several terms, then devoted his time to teaming. 
On Christmas Day, 1835, he was married to Anna 
E., daughter of Parker and Sarah (Carson) Scott, 
natives of Fallowfield township. After his mar- 
riage Samuel Frye located on a farm near his pres- 
ent home, and in 1839 bought and moved upon 
thej .seventy acres of land he now occupies. Mrs. 
Frye died in 1888, leaving one daughter, Christina 
I Mrs. Henry J. McCrory, of Allen township, form- 
erly the widow of Henry Allman). On July 6, 
1891, he made a second choice in the person of 
Belle (Housman) Ward, widow of Richard Ward, 
who was born in Westmoreland county, Penn. 
Mr. and Mrs. Frye are members of the Disciple 
Church, in which he is an elder. Politically fie 
was originally a Whig, and since its organization 
has been a member of the Republican party. Mr. 
Frye is now nearing his eightieth milestone on. 
life's highway, and is remarkably well preserved 
in mental and physical vigor. 



Hi E. RIGGLE was born November 7, 1849, 
in Amwell township, this county, the 
youngest of two children born to Ellis and 
j - 1 Catherine Riggle. Ellis Riggle was born 
r and reared in Washington county, Penn., 

where he was married to Catherine, daughter of 
Henry Moninger, a native of this county. Two 
children were born to this union: Elizabeth (Mrs. 
William Price, of Canonsburg), and II. E. (subject 
of sketch). The father died in 1849, and was 





efoue/ 



ir. 1 SUING TON CO [ 'XTY. 



1085 



buried on the day that his only son was born. The 
mother lived until her youngest child was eight 
years of age, when she too passed away. 

H. E. Riggle made his home with an uncle, John 
Moninger, after the death of his parents, and was 
educated in the schools of Uhartiers township. 
John Moninger was a brother of Mrs. Ellis Riggle, 
and a native of Washington county, born May 10, 
1810, in Amwell township. He was the eldest of 
a family of ten children, and passed his boyhood on 
the farm, receiving a country school educatipn. 
About the year 1848 he moved to Chartiers town- 
ship, this county, locating on the farm now owned 
by our subject. John Moninger was an active 
politician of the Republican party, and was assist- 
ant assessor for several years, besides serving in 
other ways. He was highly esteemed by all who 
knew him, and was a member of the Presbyterian 
Church. He died in June, 1880, in (Jhartiers town- 
town. H. E. Riggle was married August 4, 1809, 
to Mary E. Weaver, a native of Canonsburg, this 
county. She was a daughter of Thomas and Mary 
Jane ( Griffin) Weaver, who were also born in Wash- 
ington county. The father followed the vocation 
of a saddler in Canonsburg, where he died in 1858, 
the mother passing away the same year. After his 
marriage to Mary E. Weaver, H. E. Riggle settled 
on the farm where he is now residing. It is a fer- 
tile, well-cultivated tract of 150 acres, has two gas 
wells, and adjoins the town of Houstonville, this 
county. Mr. and Mrs. H. E. Riggle have had 
children as follows: John M. (a graduate of Duff's 
Commercial College, class of '87, deceased March 
25, 1892, aged twenty-two years), Mary Jane, 
Charles R. (also a graduate of Duff's Mercantile 
College, class of '91), Ida May, Ellis Reed, Thomas 
Andrew, James, Bertha Elizabeth, Mabel Cather- 
ine, Dora Giffin (deceased July 0, 1892, aged two 
years, nine months and eight days), and Grace 
Douglas. Mr. Riggle deals extensively in stock, 
making a specialty of sheep raising: He is inter- 
ested in all public movements, is an active worker 
in the Republican party, and has served on the 
board of election, also as assistant assessor. Mrs. 
Riggle, together with several of her children, is a 
member of the Houstonville United Presbyterian 
Church. 



f/OHN McADOO is one of the well-known and 
successful farmers of Donegal township, and 
^ I is a son of James McAdoo, who was born 
^^ December 10, 1780, in County Donegal, Ire- 
land, and being the son of a farmer, he in early 
life received a practical training in that vocation. In 
1807 he was married to Catherine Ralston, who was 
born in September, 1780, in the same county, and 
the children born to them in Ireland were as fol- 
lows: Jane, born August 12, 1808, living in John- 



son county, Mo.; James, born August 30, 1810, also 
living in Johnson county, Mo.; Letitia, born Nov- 
ember 18, 1812, died February 8, 1870; John 
(subject of this sketch), born May 15, 1815; 
Margaret, born July 10, 1818, died November 9, 
1870; and Catherine, born August 29, 1820, died 
June, 1, 1800. 

In 1821 Mr. McAdoo and his family sailed from 
Londonderry, Ireland, on the vessel " Marquis Hill " 
commanded by Capt. Bryson, and after a voyage of 
nine weeks they reached St. Johns, Newfoundland, 
thence sailed to Baltimore, and then traveled from 
there by wagon to West Alexander, Washington 
county, Penn. Though then but a child of six 
years, John McAdoo (our subject) distinctly re- 
members the journey. He recollects riding on the 
high front seat with Tupper, the driver, who took 
a fancy to him. James McAdoa purchased some 
land in Donegal township, lying about three miles 
north of West Alexander, and erected a log cabin, 
which was afterward supplanted by a larger and 
more comfortable residence. On this farm the fol- 
lowing children were born: Elizabeth, born Dcember 
17, 1822, died July 13, 1804; Alexander, born June 
15, 1825, died March 17, 1863; William, born July 
23, 1827, died December 1, 1801; David, born Jan- 
uary 16, 1830, died August 11, 1804; and Robert 
(a miller of Ashland, Ohio), born November 14, 
1833. Mr. McAdoo resided on his first farm sev- 
eral years, and then bought a place of John Hus- 
ton, where he lived the remainder of his life, dying 
December 6, 1843; Mrs. McAdoo died in Feb- 
ruary, 1852. John McAdoo was born in Coun- 
ty Donegal, Ireland, and, as previously stated, 
came with his parents to America, where he re- 
ceived a common-school education, and assisted on 
the farm. In 1837 he was married to Julia Ann 
Porter, of Harrison county, Ohio. Their children 
were as follows: Catherine (who died in infancy); 
Margaret Ellen (Mrs. Thomas Muldoon, of Pettis 
county, Mo.); Julia Anne (Mrs. C. F. DeFrance, 
of Donegal township), John (farming in Indepen- 
dence township); James (a farmer of Brooke 
county, W. Va.); Catherine (Mrs. Robert Mealy, of 
Donegal township); Oliver (farming in Donegal 
township); and John (deceased in infancy). The 
mother of these children died in 1803, and in 1805 
Mr. McAdoo was married to Mrs. Margaret (Mil- 
ler) Anderson, widow of George Anderson. 

Mr. McAdoo passed the earlier years of his mar- 
ried life in Donegal township, afterward moving to 
Brooke county, W. Va., but finally returning to 
Donegal township. He has since remained on the 
farm, which is located about six miles north of 
West Alexander. Politically, he has always been 
a Democrat, and cast his first vote for Martin Van- 
Buren. He possesses a remarkable memory, easily 
recalling incidents which occurred many years ago; 
in personal appearance he is a fine specimen of 



lose, 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



of perfect physical manhood. He began life with 
no financial aid, but by years of hard work and per- 
severance has succeeded in securing a comfortable 
competency. He and his wife are both members 
of the Baptist Church. 



/ 



HIRAM HORNER. Among the intelligent 
citizens of East Bethlehem township none 
occupy a more prominent position than the 

gentleman whose name opens this sketch. 

He is a son of William Horner, whose father, 
also named William, was a native of Maryland, 
born of English ancestry. In early life grand- 
father William Horner moved to Fayette county, 
I'enn., and there patented a large tract of land, 
part of which was bounded by the Monongahela 
river. Here he passed the remainder of his life, 
dying at an extreme old age, being yet remembered 
as a (jentleman of unusual intelligence and keen 
sense of honor; who was a thorough Christian, ever 
giving liberally to the cause of the Master. His 
children were born and reared as follows: James; 
William; Thomas, an extensive landowner in 
Greene county, Penn.; Ephraim, who lived to be 
ninety years of age, and died in Adams county, 
Ohio; Benedict, who started West, and being sud- 
denly taken ill, died in Pittsburgh, Penn.; Ben- 
nett, who resided in Wisconsin; Mrs. Sarah Moore, 
of Jefferson county, Ohio, and Mrs Harriet Pres- 
ton, who lived near the village of Chatham, near 
Newark, Licking Co., Ohio. None of this family 
are now living. It is said of Ephraim, who was a 
famous fisherman, that he once had an encounter 
with a monster tortoise, which possessed such great 
strength that it carried him on its back for nearly 
half a mile. 

William Horner, son of William, the pioneer of 
this family, was born on the farm in Fayette county, 
Penn., and passed his boyhood in the usual pur- 
suits of agricultural life. His school advantages 
were limited to a few winter months, which were 
spent with his brothers and sisters. After leaving 
school he became a wagoner on the National pike, 
and for many years made trips over the mountains 
to Baltimore. He was married to a Miss Swively, 
of Fayette county, who bore him fourteen children, 
of whom Hiram is the only one mentioned. Mr. 
Horner was killed by a horse, which kicked him to 
death near Uniontown, Penn. 

Iliram Horner, our subject, was born June 21, 
1 SM 1, beside the Monongahela river, in Fayette 
county, Penn. He was left an orphan in early 
boyhood, and being obliged to earn his own living, 
learned the carpenter trade. For four years he re- 
sided with James Hill, of West Bethlehem town- 
ship, Washington Co., Penn., then followed the 
drover business several years, making freipient 
trips across the mountains with large numbers of 



hogs and cattle. For these services he received 
the meager pittance of 30 cents per day. In L850 
he went to Licking county, Ohio, where a brother 
was living, and remained near Chatham two years, 
meanwhile working at his trade, and following the 
drover business. He then engaged with a party 
to take a drove of cattle from Licking county to 
Lancaster county, Penn., receiving $10 per month 
for his services. Upon arriving at Lancaster he 
visited the home of his boyhood, and his brothers 
and sisters; then hired out as a drover for the re- 
mainder of the season at $1 per day. After this 
work was finished he resumed the carpenter trade, 
and in the latter part of 1854 assisted in repairing 
a mill at Amity, Amwell township, Washington 
county. He then took a drove of cattle to Vermil- 
ion county, 111., afterward resuming work on the 
mill, and in March, 1855, he again entered the em- 
ploy of the same firm for whom he had worked the 
previous autumn. He started on the trip with 170 
head of cattle, arriving at his destination in June, 
then returning to Washington county, spent the 
following winter in completing the mill, and other 
carpenter work. The spring of 185(5 found him 
with tools packed, on his way to Ottawa, III., where 
he worked the following summer, and returning to 
Pennsylvania in the fall, passed the winter of 
1856 57 in Millsboro, Washington county. During 
the spring of 1857 he assisted his brothers on a 
freight barge on the Monongahela river, purchasing 
grain and produce along the river, which he sold 
in Pittsburgh. In the midst of his success as a 
boatman, Mr. Horner was taken sick, and suffered 
with a long and tedious illness. After regaining 
his health, he accepted a position in the mercantile 
establishment of his brother, at Millsboro, Wash- 
ington Co., Penn. He then attended a commercial 
college at Pittsburgh, afterward resuming his for- 
mer position at Millsboro, and finally started on a 
western tour. He first located in Adams county, 
Ohio, where he assisted an uncle with his farm 
work, and the spring of 1859 found our traveler 
teaching writing in the schools of Licking county, 
Ohio, where he continued for several months, then 
returning to Millsboro, Penn., took charge of a 
general store. This establishment was soon after- 
ward moved to Merrittstown, Fayette Co., Penn., 
and Hiram Horner became a partner, remaining in 
that business eighteen months, during which time 
he served as postmaster. In the spring of 18*52 he 
sold his interest in the store, and with a brother 
opened a mercantile business at Clarksville, Greene 
Co., Penn., which they conducted successfully for 
nine months. In the autumn of 1862 he was united 
in marriao-e with Elizabeth, daughter of William 
and Charlotte (Rush) Litzenberg. After his mar- 
riage Mr. Horner bought the 132 acres of valuable 
land in East Bethlehem township, to which he has 
since added fifty acres, which are located in Greene 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1087 



county, Perm. In this home children have been 
born as follows: Joseph H., born November 2, 
1863; Frank W., born June 15, 1865, and Julia, 
born March 30, 1870, all of whom are living with 
their parents. Mr. Horner conducts a general agri- 
cultural business, devoting special attention to the 
breeding of Shorthorn cattle and Black top sheep. 
In politics he is a Republican, and has served as 
auditor and school commissioner, in which offices 
he has given good satisfaction. His wife is an 
active member of the Cumberland Presbyterian 
Church. 




If MON ENGLAND is a representative of one 
1\ of the pioneer families of East Finley 
4\ township, this county, who were promi- 
— > nently identified with the early history of 
that township. The first of the name to 
settle in America was the great-grandfather of 
Anion, by name Samuel England, who emigrated 
from" England and located in Philadelphia during 
the earlier part of the eighteenth century. He had 
a family of three sons: Samuel, John and Robert. 

Samuel England was born in 1756, in Philadel- 
phia, Peim., and at an early age learned the car- 
penter trade, which he followed in Baltimore for 
some time. In 1778 he removed to Washington 
county, where he secured a " tomahawk claim, " and 
also purchased of Thomas Atkinson 200 additional 
acres, located near the headwaters of the Temple- 
ton fork of Wheeling creek, adjoining Pleasant 
Grove in East Finley township. He was married 
to Tacy Evans, who bore him the following named 
children, all of whom lived to an adult age: Tacy, 
Jane, Mary, Hannah, Joseph, Samuel and George. 
Mr. England was an intelligent and successful 
man, doing all in his power to improve the county, 
and advance the interests of its citizens. Politi- 
cally he was a Whig, and served as 'squire for 
many years. In religion he was a Quaker, a fol- 
lower of William Penn. Mrs. England died in 
1836, Mr. England in 1838. 

Samuel England, father of our subject, was born 
December 2, 1800, near the present home of his 
son in East Finley township. He received a lim- 
ited education, and in early life began to farm, 
learning also the trade of a cabinet ma'ker and car- 
penter. On May 1, 1833, he was united in mar- 
riage with Emma Given, who was born October 
27, 1801, a daughter of Moses Given, of East Fin- 
ley township, this county, and their children were 
as follows: Moses G., born January 22, 1834 (a 
Protestant Methodist minister in Cedar county, 
Ark.); Samuel T., born April 28, 1835 (a farmer 
living near Lincoln, Neb.); Tacy, born May 20, 
1836 (deceased at the age of nineteen years); 
Amnn (subject- of the present memoir); Joel, born 
Novemoer 28, 1839 (residing in Washington county, 



Iowa), and Mary Ann, born October 7, 1844 (now 
deceased). After his marriage Mr. England set- 
tled near the home of his father, and as years 
passed by added to his property, until at the time 
of his death he owned over 1,000 acres of farm 
land, located in Washington county (Penn.), Illi- 
nois and Iowa. Mr. England was a rigid supporter 
of the temperance cause, and would not allow in- 
toxicating beverages to be given to the workmen 
during harvest, although such was then the univer- 
sal custom. He gladly furnished any other refresh- 
ments, but would not deviate from his temperance 
principles. He was a man of exemplary habits, 
and by industry coupled with shrewd financiering, 
became very successful in business. The present 
postoffice, " England," was named in his honor. 
In politics he was originally a Whig, and after the 
formation of the Republican party became an active 
worker in its ranks. He died January 9, 1SS6, his 
wife having preceded him to the " Better Land " 
October 25, 1870. 

Amon England was born in East Finley town 
shiD, Washington Co., Penn., July 7, 1836, and 
passed his boyhood days on his father's farm. On 
September 16, 1869, he was married to Deborah J. 
Knox, born in 1841, a daughter of Joseph Knox, of 
Edst Finley township, and they have had two daugh- 
ters: Margaret E., born November 20, 1870, and 
Elnora Josephine, born February 10, 1874, both at 
home. After his marriage Mr. England continued 
to live with his parents on the home farm, which he 
now owns, and which is one of the best in the 
township. He has been a very successful business 
man, and enjoys the esteem of all acquaintances. 
In his political preferences he is a member of the 
Republican party. 



GEORGE L. TAYLOR, a citizen of West 
Finley township, was born March 7, 1846. 
His father, Thomas Taylor, was a son of 
Matthew Taylor, who settled in South Stra- 
bane township, Washington (Jo., Penn., and 
there his son Thomas was born. 
„ Thomas Taylor was born in 1805, on the farm 
of his father as above mentioned, and was early 
inducted into the mysteries of agriculture, which 
vocation he followed all his life. He was united 
in marriage with Susan Darlington, who was born 
about 1813, near Hagerstown, Md. The young 
couple commenced married life on the farm which 
is now known as the " Old Taylor Homestead," 
and children were born to them as follows: Juli* 
A., Sarah O, Griffith D., Henry M., Isabella, Will- 
iam G., George L., Thomas F., Nancy J., James 
W., Mary M. and John M. Three sons of this 
family entered the Civil war, and fought for the 
cause of freedom. Griffith D. was the first man to 
enlist in West Finley township. He was a mem- 



Kiss 



WASHINGTON COC'XTY. 



her of the Eighth Pennsylvania Reserves, and fell 
December 13, 1 862, gallantly fighting at the battle 
of Fredericksburg, under the command of Gen. 
Burnsides. Henry M. enlisted in Company E, 
Eighty-fifth P. V.I.; he was taken sick at Mars Is- 
land, and died before he could be taken home. 
William G. enlisted at West Alexander, Washing- 
ton county, in the Sixteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, 
and six days later was in the battle of Peters- 
burg; he lived to get home, where he died, hon- 
ored and mourned by all who knew him. 



I OHN FRYE. The Frye family, of which 
this gentlemen is an honored member, are 
^ . numbered with the earliest and most promi- 
nent citizens of Washington county. The 
first of the name to settle in Pennsylvania was one 
Samuel Frye, who was born, in 1729, in Virginia, 
and was there married to Christina Speers, also a 
native of Virginia, born in 1752. They came over- 
land to Washington county in a very early day, 
and July 19, 1792, took a "tomahawk right" to a 
large tract of land in Fallowfield township. He 
was a famous hunter, and also worked on his farm, 
remaining in the fort at night for protection from 
the Indians. He died in 1814, and was followed 
by his wife November 9, 1841. 

Abraham Frye, son of Samuel and Christina 
(Speers) Frye, was born in 1792, on the home 
farm in Fallowfield township, Washington Co., 
Penn. He received a subscription-school educa- 
tion, and in early life was married to Isabella 
Ringland, a native of Washington county. She 
bore him eleven children, namely: Samuel, living 
in Allen township, Washington county; John, also 
living in Allen township; Christina, Mrs. Abraham, 
Colvin, of Fallowfield township; Abraham, who 
entered the U. S. service in Washington county, 
and is now living near Nashville, Tenn.; Henry, a 
resident of Sumner county, Tenn., on the Cumber- 
land river; Noah, who died in Fallowfield town- 
ship; Sarah, wife of Thomas McGowan, Lock N41. 
4, Fallowfield township; Jackson, living in Cowley 
county, Fans, (he enlisted in the Civil war, was 
taken prisoner, and confined in Andersonville pris- 
on eleven months); Clarissa, who married Alexan- 
der Allman, and died in East Pike Run township; 
Smith, living in Fallowfield township, and Isabelle, 
wife of Elgy T. Van Voorhis, of Kansas City, Mo. 
After their marriage Abraham and Isabella Frye 
settled on the upper part of the old homestead in 
Fallowfield township. He was actively interested 
in public matters, and first affiliated with the Dem- 
ocratic party, then becoming a Whig and Repub- 
lican, lie died Decamber 11, 1866, followed by 
his widow April 12, 1881, she having lived to see 



her youngest daughter the mother of twelve chil- 
dren. Both parents were members of the Disciple 
Church. 

John Frye, son of Abrahim and Isabella Frye, 
was born December 25, 1815, on a farm near Lock 
No. 4, Washington Co., Penn. He was reared to 
manhood in Fallowfield township, and educated in 
the subscription schools. In October, 1839, he 
married Christina, daughter of Parker and Sarah 
(Carson) Scott, natives of this connty, who died 
many years ago. After his marriage John Frye 
bought the 137 acres in Fallowfield township which 
he now owns, and upon which he has mide many 
improvements. One year after her marriage Mrs. 
Frye died, leaving one son, Abraham, who was 
accidently killed at Lock No. 4, this county. On 
January 19, 1844, John Frye married, for his sec- 
ond wife, Elizabeth, daughter of George and Eliza 
(Jackman) Carroll, who were natives of East Pike 
Run township, Washington county. They moved 
to Ohio, thence to Wheeling creek, West Virginia, 
where the father died; the mother is now livinc in 
Meigs county, Ohio. In 1849 John Frye erected 
a handsome brick residence, also a commodious 
barn 32 by 48 feet, and has been engaged in farm- 
ing and stock raising, making a specialty of sheep. 
In politics he votes with the Republican party, 
and in religion he and his wife are members of the 
Disciple Church, in which he is an elder. They 
have two children: Josephine, wife of M. S. 
Krepps, and Ida B. Mr. Frye is now seventy- 
seven years old. He has settled sixteen estates, 
and has been guardian for twenty-one children and 
two lunatics. 



THEODORE F. BURGAN, son of John Bur- 
gan, was born December 12, 1844. His 
grandfather, James Burgan, was a native of 
Westmoreland county, Penn., and was there 
married to Elizabeth Smock, who was born 
in the same county. Eleven children was the re- 
sult of this union, of whom the living members are 
Joseph (residing in Washington, Penn.), Matthias 
(an agriculturist of Somerset township) and John 
(whose sketch is given below). James Burgan 
followed farming all his life, and died at the age 
of sixty-five years on the place now occupied by 
his grandson, Theodore. His widow passed away 
on the same farm in her eighty fourth year. 

John Kurgan was born February 27, 1S0S, in 
Westmoreland county, Penn., and received his 
early education in the subscription schools of the 
period, and afterward came with his parents to the 
farm in Washington county, where he is now liv- 
ing. In 1834 he was united in marriage with 
Elizabeth Huffman, who was born December 26, 
1812, in Washington county, Penn., a daughter of 
Latimer and Mary (Kelly) Ilutf.nan, early settlers 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1091 



of Pennsylvania, who reared a family of fifteen 
children, two of whom are yet living, Elizabeth 
(Mrs. Burgan) and Cassandra (widow of Joseph 
Taylor, living in Monongahela City, I'enn.); the 
father was a farmer and stock dealer; he died at 
the age of forty-nine years; his widow died in her 
eighty first year. John and Elizabeth (Huffman) 
Burgan were the parents of the following children: 
Mary A. (wife of Harrison Long, a merchant of 
Vanceville, this county), born August 25, 183S; 
Keturah L., born October 20, 1842; Theodore F., 
(the subject of this biography); Elizabeth J. (liv- 
ing at home), born October 19, 1846; John W., 
born December 19, 1848; Clarinda (residing at 
home), born February 8, 1850; Sarah J. (wife of 
William Wright, a farmer of Somerset township), 
born March 21,1855; Emily and James L. (both 
deceased), and one that died in infancy. John 
Burgan has always followed agricultural pursuits, 
giving considerable attention to stock raising. He 
and his wife are members of the Disciple Church. 

Theodore F. Burcfan grew to manhood on the 
home farm, and on December 13, 1889, was united 
in marriage with Jane McDonough, who was born 
December 25, 1859, in this county, daughter of 
Henry and Mary (Smith) McDonough. Mr. and 
Mrs. Burgan are members of the Disciple Church 
in Vanceville, this county; in his political opinions 
he votes the Republican ticket, and is actively in- 
terested in the success of his party. They are liv- 
ing on the home farm with his parents. 



THOMAS FEPPER, farmer and stock dealer 
of East Pike Run township, is a native of 
the same, and was born July 15, 1834. His 
parents were William and Harriet ( Nanki- 
vel) Pepper, who were natives of England, 
where the father was born in 1797, the mother in 
1807. William Pepper was a butcher and a farm- 
er and emigrated to Pennsylvania many years 
ago, settling permanently on a farm in Washing- 
ton county. He was a supporter of the Democratic 
party, held various local offices, and was also pro- 
minently identified with the religious and educa- 
tional interests of the locality. Mr. and Mrs. Pepper 
reared a family of seven children, namely: 
William, an agriculturist of West Pike Run town- 
ship; Mary, wife of Alexander Moffitt, a resident of 
Washington, D. O; Thomas, whose name opens 
this sketch; Anna, wife of B. F. Jeffries, a farmer 
of West Pike Run township; James, John C. and 
Elizabeth, of whom the latter three are now 
deceased. The father died in October, 1879, 
having been preceded by the mother in March, 
1877. 

Thomas Pepper received a subscription -school 
education in the home neighborhood, then learned 
the carriage maker's trade. He settled on a farm 



in Washington county, and on December 2, 1856, 
was united in marriage with Mary Crable, who 
was born in 1836, in Fayette county, a daughter 
of George W. and Hannah (McDonough) Crable, 
early settlers of Washington county, Penn. 

Mr. and Mrs. Pepper are the parents of eight 
children, namely: Hannah J., wife of Joseph L. 
Walker, a resident of West Pike Run township; 
Harriet D.; James O; Thomas W.; Elizabeth A.; 
Caroline I.; Mary E. (deceased), and one who 
died in infancy. Mr. Pepper owns 113 acres of 
good land, which is cultivated to the highest ex- 
tent. He is a practical farmer, using all modern 
improvements to facilitate his work; in politics he 
is a stanch supporter of the Republican party. 
Mrs. Pepper is a member of the Catholic Church. 




JLLIAM COOPER, a prosperous agri- 
culturist, and a descendant of one of the 
oldest families in the county, is a native 
of Franklin township, born November 13, 
1821, a son of Stephen and Hannah Cooper. He 
reoeived a thorough practical training on the old 
home farm, and his literary education was limited 
to the subscription schools of the vicinity. On 
April 13, 1847, he was married to Eleanor, daugh- 
ter of Stephen and Sarah Day, and soon afterward 
the young couple came to their present farm in 
Franklin township, on which they made many im- 
provements, a comfortable residence and all other 
buildings having been built by them. Here, by 
industry, perseverance, econony and sound judg- 
ment, Mr. Cooper has made an enviable success, 
and is now the owner of a large and highly im- 
proved farm. Two children were born to Mr. and 
Mrs. Cooper: Murray A. and Howard C. (the last 
named being deceased). Mr. Cooper is a member 
and supporter of the Presbyterian Church of Pros- 
perity. In politics he was first a Whig, and, since 
the party was organized, has been a Republican. 
He has never sought office, but has attended 
strictly to his occupation as a farmer and stock 
raiser, and now, at a ripe old age, finds himself 
surrounded by the comforts of life and a com- 
petency of this world's goods. 

Murray A. Cooper, son of William and Eleanor 
Cooper, was born in Franklin township, September 
18, 1849. He was educated at the Southwestern 
State Normal College of Pennsylvania, and at Union 
Collesre Ohio. At the acre of seventeen he com- 
menced teaching, and continued in that vocation 
in Ohio and Pennsylvania. Read medicine but 
never practiced. On September 18, 1871, he es- 
tablished the Washington Advance (name changed 
to Observer), with H. B. Durant as partner, and 
continued its publication until November, 1873. 
This he sold and then purchased the Mt. Pleasant 
(Penn.) Journal, which be edited and published 



1092 



Washing ton county. 



live years. He was recording secretary of the Penn- 
sylvania Editorial Association in 1877. In 1879 
he located in Steubenville, ( )hio, and was connected 
with the Herald two years. For three years he 
was special correspondent with the Cincinnati 
Gazette. Owing to failing health, Mr. Cooper re- 
tired from newspaper work in 1884, and turned 
his attention to fanning and stock raising, locating 
upon the home farm in Franklin township. In 
1890 he became interested in Dorset Horn sheep, 
and was the first to introduce this important brand 
of English sheep into western Pennsylvania. In 
June, 1891, he made an importation from the best 
flocks in England. On March 31, 1891, at Pitts- 
burgh, Penn., he. assisted in organizing the Dorset 
Horn Sheep Breeders Association of America, be- 
ing unanimously elected secretary and treasurer of 
the organization; reelected in 1892, and Jan- 
uary 11, 1893, in New York City, was elected to 
the same position. He is now a resident of Wash- 
ington, Penn., where he conducts the business of the 
Association, which has become one of the most suc- 
cessful organizations of the kind in the country, 
having members in twenty-four States, Canada and 
England. In politics he is a strong Republican, 
and in religion he is a Presbyterian. 



J (AMES CALDWELL, a well-known farmer of 
Hanover township, is of Irish descent. His 
grandfather, James Caldwell, was born, reared 
and married in Ireland, and finally immigrat- 
ing to America, located in Hanover township, near 
Paris, Washington county, Penn. In the midst of 
a wild and lonely forest his cabin was erected, and 
he passed the remainder of his life as a " tiller of the 
soil." He and his wife died, and they were buried 
in the Paris cemetery. James Caldwell was a promi- 
nent man, highly respected by all, and was elected 
a justice of the peace by the Democratic party, of 
which he was an enthusiastic supporter. The chil- 
dren of this family were as follows: Samuel, who 
owned, lived and died on a little farm now owned 
by John McClurg, adjoining the home farm on the 
north; William, who lived in Carroll county, Ohio; 
Joseph, who resided in Hanover township, this 
county; Elizabeth, married to Matthew Russell, of 
Hanover township; Thomas, of whom further men- 
tion is made; Jane, Mrs. Parks; Andrew; Robert 
and James; all are now deceased. 

Thomas Caldwell was born in 1805, near Paris, 
Hanover township, Washington county, Penn., on 
the farm where his father first located, on his arri- 
val in the county. He was reared on the home 
farm, and attended the subscription schools. In 
early manhood he was married to Jane, daughter 
of Samuel Carson, a native of Ireland, who came to 
America with her parents when very young, and 
they located in Carroll county, Ohio. Thomas and 



Jane Caldwell located on the home farm, near 
Paris, this county, where he successfully followed 
agriculture during the remainder of his active life. 
He was a popular citizen, took an active interest in 
elections, and during almost every polititical dem- 
onstration his wagon and horses bore an enthusi- 
astic load of Democrats to the meeting. He passed 
away in 1875, and in 1885 the wife of his youth 
was laid to rest by his side in Paris cemetery. 

James Caldwell, son of Thomas and Jane Cald- 
well, was born January 20, 1841, on the same farm 
which he now owns and resides upon. He attended 
the common schools, and when a young man began 
to learn the carpenter trade under David McClurg. 
After serving his apprenticeship he followed his 
business until his marriage, February 17, 1876, to 
.Amanda Elizabeth Freshwater, who was born 
March I, 1852, daughter of Archibald Freshwater, 
of Hanover township, this county. After his mar- 
riage he located on the old Caldwell home- 
stead near Paris, where he is yet living, devoting 
his attention to general farming and stock raising. 
In politics he has always been a Democrat, but 
gives his personal business the g eater portion of 
of his time. He is a member of the Presbyterian 
Church at Paris, which he has served in various 
offices. His children are: Charles, Elizabeth, James 
L., Jenny, Robert O, Grover O, Mina, Clara Bell 
and Donald 1)., of whom Robert C. and Grover C. 
died when young. 



DANIEL DUNN ( deceased) was a native of 
\ Greene county, Penn., born December 6, 
1S07. His father, Samuel Dunn, was a na- 
tive of New Jersey, born in 171')."). When a 
young man he moved to Greene county, Penn. fc 
where he married Jane Mclntire, of the same 
county, who bore him six children: Joseph, Will- 
iam, Daniel, Emund, Elizabeth and Anna. 

I )aniel, the third child in the order of their birth, 
left home at the age of twelve years, and became 
an apprentice in Buckingham's woolen factory, at 
Ten Mde creek, Washington county, where he 
learned the trade of carder. He married, in 1834, 
Sarah Baker, who was born November 9, 1813, a 
daughter of David Biker, of East Bethlehem town- 
ship, where the father had settled at an early day, 
having come from New Jersey with his lather. 
For six years succeeding his marriage, Daniel Dunn 
worked at his trade, near Clarksville, Greene county. 
In 1840 he purchased the farm, one-half mile west 
of what is now Dunn's Station, upon which his 
widow still resides. Here he remained, giving his 
attention to his farm, until his death, December 27, 
1 862. 1 taniel Dunn was a representative self-made 
man. Starting under the most adverse circum- 
stances, he made a success of life, and left an un- 
sullied record. He reared a family of nine chil- 



WASHINGTON COUATY. 



1093 



dren (six of who.n are living): Malinda Jane, born 
October 4, 1835, married to Milton Day, and re- 
siding in Waynosburgh, Greene county; Emmeline, 
born January 30, 1838, married to Oliver Day, of 
Somerville, Mo., where they now reside; Edward, 
born August 29, 1840, married to Rhoda Yeagly, 
of (Jonnellsville, Penn., at which place they make 
their residence; David B., born March 7, 1843, 
married to Mary E. Auld, of Morris township, where 
he resides; Margaret Ann, born November 3, L8 15, 
married to J. N. Minton (now deceased), and re- 
siding in Morris township; Hiram 13., born June 15, 
IS IS, died October 29, 1854; Alexander H. (of 
whom special mention is made further on ); Flo- 
rella W., born. December 2, 1854, married to 
Thomas Rice, of Greene county, anil died May 13, 
1877; Apollos B., born in October, 1858, died June 
11, 1881. 

Alexander Hamilton Dunn is one of the most 
prosperous young farmers of Morris township. He 
was born January 25, 1851, was reared to farm 
life, and received a common-school education. 
Since starting out life for himself he has given his 
attention wholly to farming and stock raising. He 
manages the old home farm, upon which he raises 
considerable graded stock. He was married Janu- 
ary 0, 1878, to Maria J. Loughman, a daughter of 
Erederick Loughman, of Morris township, Greene 
county, and they have one child, Clarence M., born 
December 5, 1878. In polities Mr. Dunti is an 
ardent Republican. Both he and his wife are mem- 
bers of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. 




RS. RACHEL WILSON (widow of Thomas 
Wilson, of Somerset township) was born 
November 9, 1833, in Washington county, 
Penn., and is a representative of one of 
the oldest families of the county. She is a 
daughter of Nicholas Peese, a native of this county, 
born in 1812, who when a young man was united 
in marriage with Elizabeth Wallar, who was born 
in 1800. After his marriage Mr. Peese settled on 
a farm where children were born to their union as 
follows: Rachel (the lady of whom this sketch is 
written), Lydia, Lawrence (farming in Somerset 
township), George W. (farming in South Strabane 
township), William (an agriculturist of Hardin 
county,* )hio), Andrew (a farmer of Hardin county, 
Ohio), Martha A. (wife of Homer Vaughn, alGO 
of Hardin county, Ohio), Mary E., Nancy (mar- 
ried to George Wygandt, a farmer of South 
Strabane township) and Nicholas. The father 
died in 1877, in South Strabane township, the 
mother in 1885; both were members of the 
Pigeon Creek Presbyterian Church. 

Rachel Peese grew to womanhood in the home 
of her parents, and on June 24, 1856, gave her 
hand in marriage to Thomas Wilson, a farmer, who 



was born December Hi. L835, in Washington 
county, Penn., a son of James and Mary (Van- 
Eman) Wilson. He died December 3, 1878. In 
religious faith he was a member of the Presbyterian 
Church, of which Mrs. Wilson is also a member. 




^ILLIAM F. RALSTON was born August 
31, 180), in Carroll township, Washington 
Co., Penn., and passed his school days in 
the vicinity. His father, Lev. Samuel 
Ralston, was born in 1758, in Ireland, and received 
a theological education at Glasgow, Scotland. He 
was licensed to preach by the Presbytery, and soon 
afterward immigrated to America. He settled in 
Washington county, Penn., and preached several 
years in Monongahela City, and Horse-Shoe; then 
took charge of the Mingo church, of which he 
was pastor during his later life. His mother after- 
ward came to America, and resided with him and 
another son, Ralf, for some time on the latter's 
farm of 150 acres in Carroll township; died there 
and was buried at Mingo. Samuel Ralston was 
married to Rachel, daughter of William Ferguson, 
and children were born to them, as follows: Sarah 
(wife of Benjamin Williams), Matilda, Mary (Mrs. 
James McVey, of Mingo creek ), James, Margaret 
(wife of Samuel Kidoo), Lizzie (Mrs. Robert 
(Patten), Samuel, and William F. 

William F. Ralston grew to manhood in his 
native county, and on March 8, 1837, was married 
to Jane R. Hackett, a native of Chester county, 
Penn., whose father, David Hackett, is a well- 
know agriculturist of that place. Mr. and Mrs. 
Rilston have had three sons and two daughters, 
namelv: Samuel (who served three years in the 
First Pennsylvania Cavalry under a cousin, Joseph 
William, and was slightly wounded), James H., 
Martha (deceased), Margaret, and William. 

Mr. Ralston owns thirty acres of land upon 
which he is now boring a gas well. He is a Repub- 
lican, has taken an active interest in local politics, 
and served in various township offices. He is the 
only remaining one of the family of Samuel 
Ralston. 



T/HE FURNIER FAMILY in Fallowfield 
township come of French ancestry, David 
Furnier, the first of them to emigrate to 
America, having been a native of France, 
from which country he fled in the days of 
religious persecution. 

He first located near Hagerstown, Maryland, 
afterward coming to Washington county, Pennsyl- 
vania, and making a settlement near ^Speers run 
some time prior to 1772. In 1798 he purchased of 
Henry Speers a tract of ninety-four acres of land 
near the stream just mentioned, having a riverfront 



unit 



WASHINGTON COl \ TY. 



of 100 rods. A log house was erected on this land 
either by Speers or Furnier, probably the latter. 
In addition to this tract David Furnier also owned a 
large portion of the land now in the possession of 
the heirs of Levi Johnson, the title of which has 
long been disputed. In 1828 this land was deeded 
by the heirs of Furnier to Solomon Speers, who, in 
turn, sold it to L. M. Speers, and it is now the prop- 
erty of S. F. and William Jones. A log flouring- 
mill was erected on this land many years ago, just 
below the stone house of Samuel McKean. The 
original owners of this mill are not certainly known, 
but it is supposed that Elliott and Williams erected 
on a lease of several years' duration. At all events 
David Furnier was the sole proprietor of both mill 
and store in 1790, and also conducted a distillery — 
the entire business being known as the " Barter 
Mills," the name having been characteristic of the 
enterprise. This was the first store opened in that 
locality, and at the same time David Furnier owned 
an establishment at 1 )evore's Ferry, opposite 
Monongahela City, and one at Pittsburgh. He 
did an immense business, keeping all kinds of 
goods, including groceries, etc., and of the vast 
quantities of grain brought in from the surround- 
ing country the rye was transformed into whiskey, 
while the wheat sold in adjacent cities. This was 
perhaps the largest business existing at that time in 
the Valley. The old distillery was situated above 
the log mill, and was afterward supplanted by the 
stone still-house, which was near the greenhouse of 
Samuel McKean. In 1803 a large brick mill was 
erected near the present stone bridge crossing 
Speers run, but it was torn down in 1887, part of 
the brick being yet in use in the old schoolhouse in 
Gould's hollow. A sawmill was afterward erected 
by Solomon Speers, near the site of the old brick 
mill. David Furnier had three brothers, Henry, 
John and James, of whom James lived with Henry 
in Washington county, and was never married. 
He died of sunstroke. John, who was also a bache- 
lor, owned a tannery on the present farm of John 
Irons, and was also proprietor of a store at Becket's 
place, now Degg's ferry. Henry, the remaining 
brother of David Furnier, had two sons, David and 
Simeon. The father erected the stone part of the 
house now owned by Philip Johnson, where his son, 
Simeon Furnier, died in 1848. The latter was 
married to Jane Stout, and their children were 
Henry, Jesse, John W., William, Simeon and Mary. 
David, eldest son of Henry Furnier, had four chil- 
dren, namely: Bela, Matilda, Lucinda (wife of 
Judge James Fuller, of Perryopolis, Penn.) and 
Bowman. 

David Ftjrniee was born in 1N25, in Adams 
county, OUio, and in 1827 was brought by his 
parents to Washington county, Penn. Here he 
was educated, and when a young man he worked 
on a steamboat. On October 15, 1850, Mr. Furnier 



was united in marriage with Elizabeth, daughter of 
Stephen Colvin, and she has borne him two sons 
and four daughters, namely: Eliza S., wife of Henry 
Carson ; Florentine ; Henry, of whom a sketch fol- 
lows; Joan; Lincoln, married to Lydia Sickman; 
and Allie, living at home. Mr. Furnier is distantly 
related to the Marquis de La Fayette, that famous 
patriot (now so long since deceased) having been 
a cousin of Mr. Furnier's grandfather. David Fur- 
nier's mother was a Dunlevy, and her mother was a 
Crawford, a full cousin of Col. Crawford, who 
was burned at the stake by the Indians in what is 
now Crawford county, Ohio. 

Henry Furnier, son of David and Elizabeth 
(Colvin) Furnier, was born October 8, 1855, on the 
home farm in Fallowfield township, Washington 
county, Penn. He attended the common schools, 
was early inducted into the mysteries of agricul- 
ture, and has since continued to follow rural 
life. In October, 1882, he married Martha, daugh- 
ter of Henry Frye, a well-known agriculturist of 
Washington county, Penn., and they have had 
two children: Charles L. and Edna A., both liv- 
ing with their parents. The home farm contains 
eighty-four acres of land, situated five miles from 
Monongahela City. 



< 



I M < >SES SCOTT (deceased) was a native of 

\//\ Washington county, Penn., born in Union 
l[(j township, October 12, 1809. He was of 
■* Irish descent, his father, Thomas Scott, 
having emigrated from Ireland to America 
in I796,^beingj then a young man of some twenty- 
two summers. 

Aft a r landing, Thomas Scott proceeded to this 
county, making a settlement on Mingo creek in 
Union township, where he cleared the land and 
followed farming and milling until 1850, in which 
year he moved into Monongahela City, and there 
ended his useful life, dying February 19, 1856. 
In politics he was a Whig, in religion a member of 
the Mingo Creek Presbyterian Church. In 1802 
he had married Margaret Turner, a resident of the 
county, and the children born to them were Re- 
becca ( Mrs. Franklin Goldthrop ), William, Joseph, 
Alexander, Moses, Mary, John, James, Matilda 
(Mrs. James Rodgers), Elizabeth and Jane. The 
mother was called to her long home December 24, 
IS 19. 

Moses Scott, of whom this memoir is written, 
received a rudimentary education in the schools of 
the neighborhood, afterward attending Marshall's 
academy and a school in Monongahela Citv. He 
learned the milling business which he followed in 
his intive township until 1850, when he came to 
Monongahela City. Here, in 1856, he opened a 
general grocery store, which he conducted several 
years, and then, selling out the business, moved to 






w^- • 





jeJ & £>£^~ ? 



WASHINGTON COUA'TY. 



1097 



Beaver, same State, where he remained some three 
years, at the end of which time he returned to 
Monongahela City, and there passed the rest of 
his life, dying March 5, 1891. Moses Scott was 
married in 1855 to Miss Rowanna A. McFarland, 
of Franklin county, Penn. In his political affilia- 
tions he was for some time a Republican, but in 
the later years of his life he voted the Independent 
ticket. For five years he served as alderman of 
his adopted city. In early life he identified him- 
self with the Presbyterian Church, but afterward 
enlisted under the banner of the Baptist faith. 
His widow is still a resident of Monongahela. 

James Scott, M. D., brother of Moses, was born 
in Union township, April 15, 1815. In the sub- 
scription schools and at Marshall's academy he re- 
ceived a liberal education. He studied medicine, 
and at Ohio Medical College took his degree, after 
which he commenced practice at Lebanon, Warren 
Co., Ohio. He was a very prominent and influen- 
tial man, and for some time represented his State 
in the Legislature on the Republican ticket. He 
married Hannah Fowler, of Cincinnati, and by her 
had one child that died young. In church con- 
nection the Doctor is a Presbyterian. 



^ 



lV JffRS. SUSANNAH ALLEN, a well-known 

\m/\ and intelligent lady of Cross Creek town- 

?! I ship, was born November 21, 1823, a 

A daughter of the late John Harper, of 

Cecil township, Washington Co., Penn. 

On November 19, 1850, she was united in marriage 

with Josiah Allen, son of John Allen. 

John Allen was born in Chambersburgh, Penn., 
and, coming to Washington county about the year 
1800, settled on the farm now occupied by his de- 
scendants. The land was then covered with dense 
forest, but two acres had been cleared off, and an 
orchard planted. Here the young pioneer con- 
structed a cabin from round logs, and immediately 
brought his bride (Miss Anna Tweed) to assist in 
building the new home. He then began clearing 
the forest from the land, and soon the wild, unculti- 
vated region assumed an air of civilization as 
various improvements were made. Time passed 
on, and the once lonely forest rang with the shouts 
of happy children, who came to bless the homes of 
the early pioneers. To John and Anna Allen 
were born Martha, John, Josiah, Nancy, Samuel 
and William, all now deceased. 

Josiah Allen was born November 15, 1808, on 
the home farm, in the house where his widow is 
now living. His boyhood days were passed at 
home, in attending to the usual farm duties. After 
his marriage to Susannah Harper they settled on 
the old farm, where children were born to them as 
follows: William Harper, born August 24, 1851, 
married to Emma Anderson, daughter of H. C. 



Anderson, of Cros3 Creek township) they have 
four children, namely: John Ellsworth, Lemuel 
Harper, Emma M. (deceased in infancy) and Will- 
iam Earl); Anna Martha, born November 30, 
1852; Phcebe Jane, born March 1-1, 1851; John 
Graham, born July 11, 1855; Ada Ethelinda, born 
May 26, 1857; Ella Agnes, born March 21, 
1859; Francinia Elizabeth (wife of Joseph Mar- 
quis), born January 23, 1861; James Craig, born 
October 14, 1862; and Josiah Harvey, born Decem- 
ber 19, 1865. Of this family, Phu-be Jane, John 
Graham and Ada Ethelinda are deceased. Mr. 
Allen was a stanch Democrat, but took no active 
part in politics. He was a consistent member and 
liberal supporter of the I'resbyterian Church of 
Cross Creek village. He commanded the respect 
and admiration of all who knew him, being one of 
the most useful, honorable and public-spirited men 
of the community. Josiah Allen died July 14, 1883. 
At the time of his death he owned 137 acres of 
land, which was left to his widow and children. 



c 



■/OLIN L. BAKER is a son of Nathan Baker 
and a grandson of Enoch Baker, whose father 



1) (Nathan) lived in Maryland, where, on No- 
^^ vember 28, 17o8, Enoch was born, and 
whence when an infant he was brought to Penn- 
sylvania. Although deprived of educational op- 
portunities, Enoch Baker became a successful man. 
He first learned -blacksmithing, and after serving 
his time at that trade worked four years as a jour- 
neyman; then purchased a farm, and passed the 
remainder of his life in agricultural pursuits, at 
one time being owner of 500 acres in xVmwell 
township. < )n March 3, 1814, he was united in 
marriage with Elizabeth Jennings, and to them 
were born the following children: Nathan, Lemuel, 
Elmer, Evans, Parmelia (deceased), David (de- 
ceased), Mrs. Lucinda Stockdale (deceased) and 
DanieL Enoch Baker was a very prominent Re- 
publican. In religion he was a member of the 
Cumberland Presbyterian Church, with which he 
united in 1831, ever taking an active interest in 
all questions touching its welfare. His parents 
were Quakers. He died August 29, 1861, his wife 
following him to the " Better Land " August 5, 
1862. 

Nathan Baker was born October 24, 1816, on 
the old home farm in Amwell township, Washing- 
ton county, and obtained his education in the com- 
mon schools, which at that early day afforded but 
meager opportunities; yet such as they were he 
turned to good account, and he has become a well- 
informed man. He left home in 1845, and the 
same year was wedded to Maria Horan, who bore 
him four sons: John W., born May 16, 1846; 
David E., born January 5, 1849; Robert C, born 
June 24, 1854, and Colin L., born July 11, 1856. 



1098 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Mr. Baker resided on two or three different farms, 
remaining on each about a year, and finally settled 
on a place where he remained twenty-one years, 
thence removed to the home he now occupies. 
He is a Republican, and has always been actively 
interested in public matters. He is a member of 
the Cumberland 1'resbyterian Church. 

Colin L. Baker was born on the old farm, and 
moved with his father to the home where he now 
lives. He received a common-school education, 
and afterward attended the Pleasant Valley Acad- 
emy, preparing himself for the profession of a 
teacher, which, however, he never followed. On 
October 12, 1883, he was united in marriage with 
Roberta Horn, of Amwell township, and to their 
union four children have been born: Bernard, born 
August 4, 1885; Ruby and Cherry (twins), born 
August 5, 1886, and Nellie, born April 4, 1889. 
He is a successful business man, an extensive 
reader and student of history, and in politics is one 
of the most active young Republicans in the town- 
ship. 



G'MIARLES PTTTMAN, a much esteemed, 
progressive citizen of Hopewell township, 
|) one who has made his own way to the front 
ranks of business life, is a son of Frederick 
and Mary Ann (Armstrong) Pittman, the former 
a native of Maryland, the latter of Germany, whence 
she came to the United States when twenty years 
of age. Frederick and Mary Ann Pittman were 
the parents of six children, namely: William,. John, 
Charles, Fred, John and Anna. The father died in 
1852. 

Charles Pittman was born in 1849 in Steuben- 
ville, Ohio. After the death of the father his 
mother removed to Washington, afterward settling 
in South Strabane township, this county, where 
Charles attended school. The support of the 
family depending upon the sons, Charles had little 
opportunity for securing an education. After the 
Civil war broke out, William, the eldest son, en- 
tered the service, in the Eighteenth Pennsylvania 
Cavalry, remaining during the conflict. The brunt 
of the family support then fell upon Charles, who 
was the next in age, his elder brother, John, being 
previously deceased. After William returned from 
the army, the sons all worked out until they secured 
sufficient funds to start farming for themselves. 
About three years after his return from the service, 
William married, went West, and is now residing 
near Mexico, Missouri. Charles and his other broth- 
ers worked together until 1874, when he was 
married to Harriet Linn, daughter of " Squire " 
Linn, of North Strabane township. Charles Pittman 
resided in that township for eight years after his 
marriage, then lived in Washington for two years, 
in 1884 settling in Hopewell township, where he is 



now residing. Seven children have been born to 
Mr. and Mrs. Pittman, named as follows: Sadie, 
Lorena, Mot, Mary, Claretta, Garnet, and Charles 
(deceased at the age of seven months). The farm 
is located north of the Washington and Middletowu 
road at Tarrtown schoolhouse. It consists of 127 
acres, beautifully situated, on three sides sloping 
gently toward the center where his buildings are 
located, while the fourth side opens out into the 
beautiful Cross Creek valley. Mr. Pittman gives 
his attention almost entirely to farming, raising 
only such stock as is required in carrying on his 
business. He takes little part in political questions 
other than to attend the elections. In local affairs 
he is independent, but in State and National con- 
tests he votes with the Democratic party. 



d(OIIN I. CARSON, a prominent real estate 
and insurance broker in the borough of 
I Washington, is a native of Virginia, born in 
Ohio county October 21, 1S5: J >. ' 

Richard Carson, grandfather of subject, an Amer- 
ican by birth, married Elizabeth Irwin, who bore 
him the following children: Abner, John, Nancy, 
Joseph, David, Elizabeth and Irwin. He moved to 
Ohio county, Va., from Dauphin county, Penn. 
(near Harrisburg), some time in the latter part of the 
eighteenth century, and there purchased the farm 
which was afterward occupied by his son Joseph. 
He served in the war of 1812, and while on his way 
home from the army died at Delaware, Ohio; his 
widow subsequently married William Faris. In 
politics he was a Democrat, and in religion a mem- 
ber of the Ridge Presbyterian Church at West 
Alexander, in which he was an elder. 

Joseph ( 'arson, father of John I., was born August 
21, 1801, in Ohio county, Va., on the old home 
farm, and received his education at the subscription 
schools of the period. For several years he taught 
in his native county, one of his scholars being Prof. 
Ray. In 1S2S Mr. Carson married Anna, daughter 
of William Brown, of Ohio county, Virginia, and 
their children were Elizabeth (Mrs. Robert Cris- 
well ), Hannah J. (Mrs. Harvey J. Milligan ), Richard, 
Mary A. (Mrs. David B. Boggs), Sarah (Mrs. Van- 
Tassell), William, Almira S. (deceased), Harriet 
(deceased), Vincent B. and John I. The father 
died July 2(1, 1SS7, on the farm on which he was 
born, after a long life of usefulness, activity and 
enterprise, being always deeply interested in reli- 
gious and educational affairs. He was a straight 
Democrat, and served as a justice of the peace ; he 
was a consistent member of the West Alexander 
Presbyterian Church, in which he was an elder for 
a quarter of a century. 

John I.Carson, the youngest in the family of ten 
children born to Joseph and Anna (Brown) Carson, 
received his rudimentary education at the common 



WASHINGTON COr.YTY. 



1099 



schools of the vicinity of his place of birth, and 
West Alexander Academy, and at the age of six- 
teen he entered Waynesburgh College. On com- 
pleting; his studies he taught school in Ohio 
and Marshall counties, W. Va., and finally in 
Peoria county, III., from which latter locality he 
returned to his old home in 1875. On Novem- 
ber 25 of that year Mr. Carson was married to 
Josephine M., daughter of Perry Whitham, of 
Ohio county, W. Va., and the children that have 
blessed this union are named respectively Ross 
Milligan, Glenn Pere, Muriel .loy and Salome. 
After marriage our subject resided in Chesterfield 
county, Va., four or five years, farming; thence 
moved to Philadelphia as clerk in a commission 
house, and from there, after one year's sojourn, 
came to West Alexander, and was principal of the 
Public Schools of West Alexander, this county, 
1882. In July, 1891, he came to Washington and 
entered into partnership with J. W. Murray as 
pension agents, and in the real-estate insurance and 
loan business. Mr. Carson is a Republican, and in 
L887 he was elected a justice of the peace at West 
Alexander, serving until 1892, and m 1892-93 he 
was secretary of the Republican County Committee. 
Mr. Carson is a member of the Presbyterian Church, 
and was leader of the choir at West Alexander ten 
years On January 1, 1893, he was appointed 
deputy-collector of Internal Revenue of the Twenty- 
third District, having charge of the. Seventh Divi- 
sion, embracing Washington, Greene, and part of 
Fayette counties. 



Ii JlfRS. MARGARET DUNBAR was born 

\/| November 10, 1838, near Bulger, Smith 

*1 I township, Washington Co., Penn., a daugh- 

-* ter of John S. Russell, who was a son of 

v William Russell. 

William Russell was born in the latter part of 
the last century, in Smith township, this county, 
and received a somewhat limited school training, 
as the educational opportunities of those days were 
comparatively meager and primitive. In 1798 he 
was married to Nancy Strain, whose parents were 
early settlers in Smith township, this county. In 
about 1800 Mr. and Mrs. Russell, with an infant 
son, removed to Portage county, Ohio, residing 
there until the close of the war of 1812, in which 
William served as a soldier. Being dissatisfied 
with the country, he returned, about 1815, to 
Smith township, locating near the line of Cross 
Creek township, where he continued to follow farm- 
ing till his death. In politics he was a Democrat. 
His wife died several years prior to his demise, and 
left the following children: Abraham (deceased in 
this county at the age of eighty-five; was never 
married ), Sarah (deceased wife of James Fulton, 
formerly of Cross Creek township, afterward of 



Hmovar township, this ounty), John S , Saman- 
tha (cared for her father in his old age, and died 
unmarried) and James (deceased in Smith town- 
ship). 

John S. Russell was horn February 14, 1806, on 
the home farm, in Portage county, Ohio, and was 
reared to agricultural pursuits. On February 12, 
1833, he married Jane Simpson, who was born 
September 3, 1S15, daughter of James and Ellen 
(Stewart) Simpson, early residents of the town- 
ship. The children born to this union were as fol- 
lows: Ellen (living in Burgettstown, Penn., un- 
married), Cynthia (unmarried, also residing in Bur- 
gettstown), Margarat ( widow of James Dunbar), 
Ophelia ( Mrs. Hugh Wilson, of Hanover township, 
this county), William S., Agnes (an unmarried 
lady of Burgettstown, Penn.), James C. (an agri- 
culturist of Smith township) and David A. (de- 
ceased farmer of Smith township). The mother of 
this family died July 23, 1851, and Mr. Russell 
afterward wedded Mary A. Vincent, who was born 
February 20, 1818, daughter of Joseph and Sarah 
(Rea) Vincent, of Mt. Pleasant township, this 
county. Two children were born to John S. and 
Mary A. (Vincent) Russell: John (deceased in 
youth) and Sarah (Mrs. I). W. Smith, of Smith 
township, this county). After his first marriage 
Mr. John S. Russell settled on a farm one mile 
west of Bulger, Smith township, where his life was 
passed successfully in agricultural pursuits. Year 
by year his possessions increased, until by dint of 
careful management, business sagacity and good 
financiering he became one of the most extensive 
wool growers and largest landholders of the town- 
ship, at the time of his death owning nearly 600 
acres of valuable and productive real estate. In 
politics he was a Democrat, and in religion a mem- 
ber of the Raccoon Presbyterian Church, which he 
served as an elder. He died September 15, 1879. 

James Dunbar, who became, the husband of Mar- 
garet Russell, was one of the most highly esteemed 
farmers of Smith township, and was a representa- 
tive of an old and prominent family. His grand- 
father, James Dunbar, was born near Belfast, 
County Antrim, Ireland, and, being of an advent- 
urous disposition, became a sailor in early life. 
He came to America and made a permanent settle- 
ment on Raccoon creek, Smith township, this 
county, where he was obliged to "grub out" a site 
for the first cabin which he erected; but his energy 
knew no discouragement, and success at length 
crowned his efforts. He was united in marriage with 
Mary McConnell, of Robinson township, thiscounty, 
who bore him twelve children, namely: James, 
Jane, Thomas, Joseph, Robert, Martin, Elizabeth, 
John, Samuel, Mary, William, and an infant son 
(deceased). In the latter part of his life Mr. Dun- 
bar lived for some time in Robinson township, this 
county. Although beginning life a poor sailor boy, 



1100 



Washington couxty. 



he was possessed of the right spirit of persever- 
ance, and at the time of his death was a wealthy 
man. He died in 1842, having been preceded by 
his wife many years. Thomas Dunbar (a son of 
James and Mary (McConnell) Dunbar) was born 
and reared on his father's farm in Robinson town- 
ship, this county, and received a common-school 
education. He was married to Mary Scott, who 
bore him three children. After her death he mar- 
ried Mrs. Susanna (Scott) McBride, widow of John 
McBride. She bore him no children. He died at 
an advanced age; his widow is yet living in Bav- 
ington, this county. 

James Dunbar, son of Thomas Dunbar, was born 
April 3, 1So4, in Robinson township, this county, 
was reared to manhood on his father's farm, and 
obtained a common-school education. On Decem- 
ber 18, 18(32, he was united in marriage with Mar- 
garet Russell, and three children were born to 
them: John T. (deceased in infancy), Mary E., 
and Thomas E. ( managing the home farm). After 
his marriage Mr. Dunbar purchased the farm, 
which he owned and cultivated at the time of his 
death. It is located about one mile and a half 
south of Bavington, in Smith township. He de- 
voted some attention to stock raising. In politics 
he was a strong adherent to the principles embod- 
ied in the Democratic party. He was a member of 
the Raccoon Presbyterian Church, giving liberally 
to its maintenance. Mr. Dunbar passed away May 
10, 1891, and since his death his widow has re- 
sided on the farm, which is managed by her son 
Thomas E. 



AMUEL CASTNER is one of those success- 
ful farmers who merit the hearty commenda- 
tion of every good citi/en, for the manner in 
which they have achieved such favorable re- 
sults, by years of patient toil. 

He is a son of George Castner, whose father was 
born in Germany, and in early manhood immigra- 
ted to America. He located in New Jersey and 
was there married, passing the remainder of his life 
in his adopted State. Among the children of this 
couple was the son George, who was married to 
Susan Nicholson, of Mifflin county, Penn., and 
reared the following children: Mary, Sydney, 
James, Frederick (living in Holmes county, Ohio), 
William, Nancy (widow of Jacob Miller, of Done- 
gal township), Samuel, Susan (living near Midway, 
Penn.), George (lived in Kentucky), Hannah, 
Sarah (living in Missouri), Maggie (widow of 
James Davis, of Bethany, W. Va.), Eliza and John 
T. (a farmer of Hopewell township). Of this fam- 
ily Mary, Sydney, James, William, George, Han- 
nah and Eliza are deceased. Mr. Castner removed 



to Washington county, Penn., some years after his 
marriage, and died there in the year 1860, being 
followed by his wife in 1864. 

Samuel Castner (subject of sketch) was born 
August 25, 1823, in Mifflin county, Penn., and 
attended the country schools in that vicinity, until 
he became old enough to assist on the farm. His 
parents were growing old and soon became depend- 
ent upon him, but in a short time he accumulated 
enough to support them, and continued to supply 
their needs as long as they lived. In IMS Mr. 
Castner was united in marriage with Martha Dun- 
bar (who was born March 2, 1832), daughter of 
James and Mary (Elder) Dunbar. The children 
born to them were as follows: Susan (Mrs. Albeit 
Piggett, of Hopewell township), James 1). (of 
Bethany, W. Va.), George J., Mary L. and Samuel 
W. (all three of whom are deceased), Elmer E. E. 
(a carpenter of Bethany, W. Va.), and Charles A. 
( living at home ). Mr. Castner passed the first por- 
tion of his married life near Burgettstown, Penn., 
and then moved to Judge McKeever's farm, where 
he resided as a tenant for seventeen years. Five 
years previous to leaving this place he bought an 
adjoining farm, and then managed both places. In 
the year 1!S7.~> he sold the farm in Hopewell town- 
ship, and purchased the valuable property where he 
now resides, which is situated in the eastern part 
of Independence township, near the Hopewell line. 
Mr. Castner is extensively engaged in raising stock, 
the farm being well managed, and capable of ac- 
commodating a large amount of stock. Mr. Cast- 
ner has been the architect of his own fortune, but 
like the greater portion of the successful citizens, 
much of his prosperity is justly due to the sympathy, 
tact and assistance of the faithful wife who has 
shared the joys and sorrows of her husband's life. 
Politically, he was formerly a Whig and an active 
Abolitionist, feeding and sheltering many a fugi- 
tive, while they attempted to escape from the cruel 
bonds of slavery. During the slavery troubles, he 
frequently had six or eight negroes under his pro- 
tection at one time. He is now a Republican. 
Both he and his wife are memhers of the M. K. 
Church. 




JLLTAM IIENRV DAGUE. The great- 
grandfather of this gentleman, in com- 
pany with two brothers, immigrated to 
America some time during the last cen- 
tury, and while crossing the ocean a warm discus- 
sion concerning 1 their different religious views hav- 
ing arisen among the passengers, the three brothers 
took part in the debate, in which their opinions 
differed. The dispute became so heated that the 
brothers quarreled, and upon landing in»New York 
each went his own way, and they never met again. 
One of them went to Maryland, and there had chil- 



WASHINGTON < '01 .XTY. 



11111 



dren, one of whom, John, was born in 1788. After 
a stay of some years in Maryland, the family set 
out for Pennsylvania, the journey across the moun- 
tains being 1 made with horses and mules. John and 
a twin brother were placed in pack-saddles (with 
only their heads protruding), which were thrown 
across the back of a mule. The family settled in 
West Bethlehem township, Washington county, 
where John grew to manhood on his father's farm, 
in the cultivation of which he assisted. He mar- 
ried Catherine Horn, a native of Germany, to whom 
whom were born children as follows: Jacob, John, 
Henry, Samuel, Levi, Dewalt, George, Catherine, 
Elizabeth, Ann and Livina, all of whom are now 
deceased, with the exceptions of Levi and Ann, who 
are residents of Washington county. Of this fam- 
ily, Henry was born in West Bethlehem township, 
and here grew to manhood, assisting his father in 
the duties of the farm. He married Eliza Amos, 
and to them were born John, George, Levi, Mor- 
decai, Mary Ann, Eliza Jane, Rachel M. and Will- 
iam Henry. 

William Henry Dague was born November 13, 
L848, in West Bethlehem township, and attended 
school till twelve years of age, when, much to his 
regret, he was taken from his books to assist his 
father on the farm. However, his ambition to se- 
cure an education was not dampened, for he occu- 
pied every spare moment in study. When a young 
man he attended school twelve weeks, two terms 
in the Southwestern State Normal School at Cali- 
fornia, this county, and taught in the common 
schools for four winter terms. On March 13, 187',), 
he married Isabell U. Ross, a daughter of Samuel 
Ross, and then settled upon the farm of 173 acres 
which he now owns in West Bethlehem township. 
To Mr. and Mrs. William H. Dague have been born 
the following children: Hubert R. (who when six 
years of age lost his right arnl), Samuel Blaine, 
William Grant, Ethel G. and Mabel B., all yet 
at home. Mr. Dague is a Republican, and has 
been elected to the office of school director of his 
township. He belongs to the Lutheran Church, 
while his wife is a member of the Methodist Church. 
Mr. Dague is one of the most enterprising and es- 
teemed residents of West Bethlehem township. 



DEMAS ELWOOD TOMBAUGH is a 
\ worthy representative of one of the promi- 
/ nent families of West Bethlehem township. 
His grandfather, Matthias Tombaugh, who 
was of German parentage, when the country was 
yet new settled in Somerset township, Washington 
Co., Penn. It was then perilous to travel after 
nightfall, as the wolves were very numerous and 
fierce. He married Rachel Spohn, and reared the 
following family: Solomon, John, George, Mat- 
thias, Eli, Isaac and Jacob (twins), Adam, Lavina, 



and Mary. Of these, Lavina, Mary and Matthias 
are deceased. While filling the office of superin- 
tendent of schools of Livingston county, 111., Mat- 
thias was accidentally drowned. He was out fish- 
ing with several companions, when the boat sud- 
denly lurched, which caused one of his friends to 
be thrown overboard. Matthias made an heroic at- 
tempt to rescue him, succeeding at the expense of 
his own life. Jacob now resides in Livingston 
county, 111., where he is a prosperous and well- 
known farmer. Adam lives in Bond county, 111., 
where he is esteemed by all who know him. John, 
Isaac and Eli are residents of Washington county, 
and are influential farmers. 

Solomon Tombaugh, the father of Demas El- 
wood, was born in Somerset township, Washington 
I !o ., Penn., in 1823. His boyhood was spent upon 
his father's farm, and he received a fair education. 
When a young man he taught school one year in 
Indiana, and after his return to Washington county 
married Lydia Leatherman, daughter of John 
Leatherman, who was one of the first and strong- 
est Abolitionists of Washington county. The fol- 
lowing children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Tom- 
baugh: Irvin, John, Leon, Demas El wood, James, 
Byron, Lucy, Ida and Annie. Of these, Irvin, 
Lucy, and Annie are dead; John is a resident of 
West Bethlehem township; Leon is a practising 
physician in Millburn, Lake Co., 111.; James is a 
minister of the Gospel, residing in Fayette county, 
Ohio; Byron is county superintendent of schools, 
and lives in Washington (the county seat); Ida is 
with her husband, David Hootman, in Philadelphia. 

Demas Elwood Tombaugh was born Novem- 
ber 22, 1854, in West Bethlehem township, this 
county, and received a common-school education. 
He was married November 20, 1879, to Lola Wil- 
son, a daughter of Harvey Wilson, of Somerset 
township. Both Mr. and Mrs. Tombaugh are influ- 
ential members of the society in which they move, 
and are esteemed by all who have their acquaint- 
ance. The Tombaughs are all Republicans, and no 
Tombaugh has ever asked for political office, save 
occasionally, and then it is for an educational office. 



ZEDIKER. John Zediker, son of Louis Zed- 
iker, was born in 1818, on the family home 
place in South Strabane township, Wash- 
— * ington Co., Penn. In his boyhood he at- 
tended the subscription schools of the vicinity, in 
the winter time, while in the summer months he 
assisted his father in the duties of the farm. In 
early manhood he was united in marriage with 
Susan, daughter of John Kuntz, also a resident of 
Washington county. To Mr. and Mrs. Zediker 
were born seven children, namelv: Maria J. (Mrs. 
Andrew Plymire), Lizzie, Isabella (Mrs. Boyd 
Zediker), Matthew C, Sarah A., Mary (Mrs. Leroy 



1102 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Van Kirk) and Lewis M. Mr. Zediker began life 
on the home place in South Strabane township, and 
afterward removed to the farm which is now the 
home of his sons. He was frequently intrusted 
with the business of others, and was always faith- 
ful to any confidence which had been thus reposed 
in him. An ardent friend to educational progress, 
he was ever active in any enterprise tending to the 
improvement of the schools. He was equally en- 
thusiastic in religious matters, as a leading mem- 
ber of the United Presbyterian Church at Pigeon 
Creek. In political opinions he was formerly a 
Whig, and after the formation of the Republican 
party, became actively identified with it. He 
served many years in the township as justice of the 
peace, being elected by an almost unanimous vote, 
although the Democratic party were in the major- 
ity in that locality. He passed from life May 24, 
1887, and was buried at Pigeon Creek. His widow 
still resides on the home farm. 

Matthew C. Zedikek, son of John and Susan 
(Kuntz) Zediker, was born on the home farm in 
South Strabane township, Washington county, and 
has there passed his entire life. His education, ob 
tained at the common schools, has been improved by 
general observation, reading and study. On No- 
vember 5, 1S77, he was united in marriage with 
Jennie, daughter of John Moninger, and they have 
three children: Edith P., Sheldon R. and Hester 
C. Mr. Zediker is one of the leading young men 
of his township, and in politics is a prominent Re- 
publican. He is a member of the United Presby- 
terian Church at Pigeon Creek. 

Lewis M. Zediker, son of John and Susan 
(Kuntz) Zediker, was born in South Strabane 
township, this county, and received his education 
at the common schools of the neighborhood. On 
November 24, 1882, he was united in marriage 
with Annie, daughter of James Adams, and thev 
have one son and one daughter: Harry W. and 
Ellen .lane. Mr. and Mrs. Zediker are living on 
ihe home place. He is an adherent of the United 
Presbyterian Church at Pigeon Creek, and in pol- 
itics is a well-known Republican. Mr. Zediker 
has always resided in the vicinity of the place of 
his birth. 



iT^-EORGK KINDER was born May 30, 1831, 

I near the place where he now lives, in West 

II Bethlehem township, Washington Co., Penn. 
^"1 His great-grandfather, George Kinder, re- 
sided on Plum Brush, and followed the Ohio 

and Mississippi rivers as a trader and boatman. 
Eor a time he was successful in business, but being 
overtaken by financial trouble, a few years later 
moved to New Orleans ami never returned. His 
son George was born in East Bethlehem township, 
this county, and lived in that vicinity until after 



his marriage, when he was accidentally killed in a 
carding mill, which he owned and operated. The 
maternal grandfather of our subject, Christian 
Booze, was born in Greene county, Penn. He fol- 
lowed farming and carpentry, and eventually be- 
came a successful business man. 

Valentine Kinder, the father of subject, was 
born in 1805, in East Bethlehem township. He 
received bis education in the common schools, and 
was a good penman. When a young man he went 
to Galena, 111., upon a mining expedition; thence 
proceeding to St. Louis, he there raised a crop of 
corn, and on returning home taught school for a 
time. He then married Miss Julia Booze, at which 
time his entire wealth amounted to the modest sum 
•of $35. He located just below the present home 
of his son, George, where he remained two years, 
and then removed to West Mill. Six years later 
he bought the home of his son, Louis, where he 
lived a number of years; and thence removed to 
the old Nicholl farm, near Hillsboro. At the 
time of his death, which occurred June 12,1890, 
he left §10,000 for distribution, having previously 
divided $50,000 among his children. 

George Kinder, the subject of this sketch, re- 
ceived but a limited education in the country 
schools, as, being the eldest son, he had to work 
on the farm from early boyhood. Notwithstand- 
ing these disadvantages, being naturally a student, 
he is one of the best-read men in his township. 
Much of his life has been spent in farming, and he 
has given some time to the carpenter trade. He 
owns the farm of 163 acres where he resides, be- 
sides also other land. Mr. Kinder was married, in 
1853, to Miss Esther A. Wilson, and children as 
follows have been born to them: James V., Calvin 
(deceased), Julius (was first married to Miss 
Emma Nichols, and later to Miss Ida McCarthy), 
Wilson, Frank S., White L., Emma Eliza and Vo- 
sier. Mr. Kinder is a Republican, and has been 
auditor of the township for many years, proving a 
most efficient officer. In church connection, he 
was formerly a Methodist, but about ten years ago, 
he united with the Old Christian Church; the fam- 
ily, however, are Methodists. Mr. Kinder is a 
representative self-made man, and has won the 
esteem and friendship of all who know him. [Since 
the above was prepared for the press, we have been 
informed of the death of Mr. George Kinder — Ed. 



I M/ANNINGM. BROCKMAN. Of the well- 

\g\ known and successful citizens of Smith 

■( I township, Manning M. Brockman is prom- 

i inent among the ieaders. He is a son of 

John, whose father, Edward Brockman, 

was an agriculturist. 

John Brockman was born in 17S8, near Kennett 
Square, Chester Co., Penn. He learned the shoe- 



' 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1103 



maker's trade when a lad, and after serving an ap- 
prenticeship followed same for some time. In 
L809 he was married to Jane Thomas, a native of 
the same county, who bore him one son, N. R. 
The mother died in 1811, and was buried in Ches- 
ter county. In IMS .Mr. Brockman came to Wash- 
ington county, locating in Claysville, where he 
followed his trade. On June 13, 1822, he was 
married to Margaret Martin, who was born Janu- 
ary 17, 1798, in Donegal township, this county, 
daughter of Manning Martin, who was born in 
175S, in County Donegal, Ireland, and coming to 
America settled one mile and a half southwest of 
Claysville, Donegal township, this county. To 
the union of John and Margaret (Martin) Brock- 
man the following children were born: Margaret 
(Mrs. Amos Shreves) and Jane (Mrs. Aaron Lo- 
baugh) (twins, both deceased), and Manning M. 
(subject of this sketch). N. R., the only son born 
to John and Jane ( Thomas ) Brockman, came with 
his father to East Finley township, Washington 
county, and followed farming till his death. After 
his second marriage John Brockman (the father of 
this family) resided in Claysville until 1837, when 
he removed to Coon Island, same county, and suc- 
cessfully followed farming for many years, being 
a very vigorous man up to the last of his life. In 
politics he was originally an Old-line Whig, then 
a Democrat, and in the latter portion of nis life 
voted the Republican ticket, being a hearty sup- 
porter of each in turn. His wife died April 26, 
1849, and he then resided with his children until 
his death, which event occurred December 2, 1870. 

Manning M. Brockman was born September 7, 
1827, in Claysville, Donegal township, this county, 
where he received a common-school education. ( )n 
April 3, 1843, he began to learn the wagon maker's 
trade, of John M. Mahanna, at West Alexander, 
Donegal township. He remained there but a short 
time and then for three years worked in the shop of 
J. T. Lucas. In 1846 he became an employe of 
Busley & Little, extensive wagon makers on Main 
St., Wheeling, W. Va., and with them remained 
some time. He then returned to West Alexander, 
dividing his time between the last mentioned place 
and Burgettstown, and following his trade. On 
April 12, 1849, he married Julia P. Canon, who 
was born September 14, 1825, daughter of Joshua 
< miii m, whose father was the founder of Canons- 
burg. 

Manning M. and Julia P. Brockman were the 
parents of the following children: Leah M., widow 
of A. Wiley Montgomery, now living at the home 
of her father, with her son and daughter, Harry W. 
and Ella M.; Carrie A., Mrs. Robert E. Hill, of 
East Liverpool, Ohio; John O, deceased at the 
age of eighteen years; Calvin M., who died in 
youth; William II., a telegraph operator at Mid- 
way, Penn.; Amanda J., deceased in youth; Ella 



R., wife of Dr. Gracey, of Jonesborough, Ark.; 
Cynthia W., deceased wife of A. M. Keys, of Smith 
township, and Harry E., a telegraph operator, of 
Burgettstown. After his marriage Mr. Brockman 
followed his trade in Burgettstown till March 1, 
1852, when, in company with some others, he 
started to California on a gold-hunting expedition, 
taking the " water route." The distance to Pitts- 
burgh was made partly on foot and partly by con- 
veyance. The Pennsylvania R. R. was at that time 
completed as far as Turtle Creek, from which place 
they proceeded by stage to Latrobe, thence by rail 
to Johnstown. From the latter point they passed 
over the old " Inclined Plane " to Hollidaysburg, 
thence going by rail to New York, where they 
took passage on the vessel " Crescent City " to 
Aspinwall, at which plaje the journey across the 
Isthmus of Panama was begun. The first seven- 
teen miles of this fever-haunted part of the route 
were traversed by rail, then they went by water, 
and the last twenty miles were walked by the 
whole party. After reaching Panama they em- 
barked on the vessel " Panama," and April 7, 1852, 
landed at SanFrancisco. Mr. Brockman followed 
gold- mining in Placer and El Dorado counties for 
about one year after his arrival, meeting with fair 
success; but having concluded that gold was more 
easily and perhaps as quickly obtained by other 
means than mining, he decided to resume his 
trade, which he did for two years in the " gold- 
diggings." On September 16, 1854, he started on 
the homeward journey, embarking at San Fran- 
cisco on the vessel " Sierra Nevada," which he left 
at San Juan, Nicaragua, thence traveling by way 
of Virgin Bay to the mouth of the San Juan river, 
in Costa Rica. He then took passage in the ship 
"Northern Light," which landed him at New York, 
whence he proceeded to Burgettstown, Penn., and 
here again he began to work at his trade. 

On September 3, 1861, Mr. Brockman enlisted 
at New Brighton, rent)., in Campany C, Twenty- 
second Pennsylvania Cavalry, and was sent with 
the regiment to the Shenandoah Valley. At the 
close of the war he received an honorable dis- 
charge, and returning to Burgettstown, resumed 
his trade. In 1884 he began farming on the place 
adjoining 1 Burgettstown, where he had located in 
1861. Mr. Brockman was first a Whig, and is now 
a Republican; he is a leader in the political ques- 
tions of his neighborhood, and has held various 
township offices. In 1869-70 he served as mer- 
cantile appraiser, and in 1879 became the success- 
ful one of eleven candidates for the office of 
county commissioner, which position he held from 
1879 to 1881, inclusive; he has served two terms 
in this position. In 1892 he was again appointed 
to the office of mercantile appraiser, filling the 
duties incumbent upon him with judgment and 
ability. His acquaintance is very extensive through- 



1104 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



out the county, few being more widely known or 
more universally esteemed. On January 6, 1892, he 
was called upon to mourn the death of his wife, 
who was buried in Burgettstown cemetery. 



^ ffOAH COX, prominent among the enterpris- 
VI ing and intelligent agriculturists of East 
^1 Bethlehem township, is a grandson of Chris- 
j -* topher Cox, a native of Germany, whence in 
* early life he emigrated to America, at once 

settled in Greene county, Penn., where he pat- 
ented a large tract of laud, which he improved. 
1 1 is children were John, Jessie, Hiram, Aaron, 
Christopher, Moses, Jacob, Matilda Ann, Mary and 
India, all now deceased with the possible excep- 
tion of Mary, who, years ago, removed to Iowa. 
Grandfather Cox died at a very advanced age. 

Jacob Cox, father of Noah, was born in 1762, in 
Greene county, Penn., and was reared on bis 
father's farm, attending, during the winter months, 
for a year or two, the subscription school in the 
neighborhood, one of the first ever opened in 
Greene county. He married Elizabeth, daughter 
of Henry Ilartsoc, who came to America from the 
Fatherland about the time of Christopher Cox's im- 
migration, making his new home in East Bethle- 
hem township. Shortly after the birth of their son 
Noah, Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Cox settled on the old 
Ilartsoc homestead in that township, where they 
reared the following children: Nancy, Susan, An- 
nie, Elizabeth, Catherine Ann, India Ann, Mary, 
Noah, Christopher, Jacob, Hiram, Andrew, Jona- 
than and Henry, of whom the following are yet 
living: Mary, relict of Joshua Martin; Henry, in 
Fayette county, Penn.; Christopher, in Summit 
county, Ohio; Hiram, in Iowa; Jacob and Andrew, 
both in Missouri, and Noah, in Washington county, 
Penn. The father died August 2, 1839, a patri- 
otic Whig; the mother in March, 1875. 

Mary Cox, sister of Noah, was married to Joshua 
Martin, by whom she had the following children: 
Brady (in Summit county, Ohio), Jacob (living 
near Bentleyville, this county), William (a gradu- 
ate of a medical college, now residing in Lone 
Fine, Washington Co., Penn.), Kate (wife of 
George Matthews, of West Bethlehem township, 
this county), Emma (married to Samuel Hill, of East 
Bethlehem township), Sadie, Hattie (wife of Charles 
Hill), and Nannie, living with the subject of this 
sketch, as is also their mother. Joshua Martin 
died in August, 1871. 

Noah Cox. of whom this memoir more particu- 
larly relates, was born March 12, 1819, in Greene 
county, Penn., and a short time thereafter his par- 
ents removed to East Bethlehem township, this 
county, as already related. He attended the sub- 
scription schools of the neighborhood of his new 
liuine, receiving a fairly liberal education 'for those 



early times, and was reared to agricultural pur- 
suits. He owned one of the first threshing outfits 
in the county, and for fourteen years it did service 
throughout the vicinity. Mr. Cox never married, 
but with true filial piety remained with his parents, 
caring for them in their old age, and closing their 
eyes in death. As a philanthropist he is known 
far and near, and his many deeds of kindness 
toward those less fortunate have perpetuated his 
good name. He has reared many orphans, and in 
every way in his power befriended the worthy poor. 
It is stated on good authority that at one time he 
had in his house, and cared for, as many as four- 
teen orphans, two widows and two maiden ladies. 
Politically he is a Republican, and although fre- 
quently urged to accept office, has preferred to 
serve his country in other ways more beneficent 
and more in accordance with the generosity of his 
charitable nature and the warmth of his heart. His 
farm comprises 160 acres of prime land, the culti- 
vation of which he superintends in person. 




v OBERT J. STEWART. Among the citi- 
zens of Smith township, none can claim 
more noble ancestry than the gentleman 
of whom we write, he being descended 
from the Scottish royal house of Stewart, 
his great-great-grandfather having been Lord 
Stewart. 

Many generations ago Lord Stewart left his 
highland home in Scotland, and settled in County 
Tyrone, Ireland, where some of his descendants 
yet remain (as Lord Robert, brother of James, re- 
mained as lord), while others of them emigrated to 
America. James Stewart embarked with his fam- 
ily for America on the ship "Doras," which was 
boarded while on the voyage by a British man-of- 
war. All able-bodied men on the " Doras" were 
impressed into the British navy, and Robert Stew- 
art (a son of James), being eighteen years of age, 
was one of them, and he served on board a man-of- 
war for several months, when he was released. 
The youth then joined his parents in Washington 
county, Penn., settling in Mt. Pleasant township, 
and soon afterward he was united in marriage with 
Ann McGaugh, also a native of Ireland. Six chil- 
dren were born to their union, namely: John, 
Eliza T. (Mrs. Kidd), Sarah, Robert, James and 
Andrew. 

John Stewart (a son of Robert and grandson of 
James) was born in 1818, in Jefferson township, 
this county, where he assisted in the duties of the 
farm during his earlier years. In 1843 he was mar- 
ried to Tamar McClurg, who was born in 1821, 
daughter of Joseph McClurg, and their children 
were Mary A., Sarah F., Robert J. ( whose name 
opens this biography), Rachel L., Eliza J., and 
Cynthia M. (deceased). After his marriage John 









V' 



;• 



-i 




kJj &ti Stft 



' (#■"■ 






<C*r& 



WA S HING TON CO L XTY. 



1107 



Stewart located in Jefferson township, where he 
followed farming till 1858. He then moved to a 
farm in Smith township, where he died August 14, 
1881, his widow being laid beside him in 1888. 
John Stewart was successful in business, and gen- 
erous and kind-hearted in private life. Politically 
he always voted the Democratic ticket, and he and 
his wife were members of the U. P. Church at 
Burgettstown. 

Robert J. Stewart was born April 2, 1849, in 
Jefferson township, this county, and received a 
common-school education. Being naturally adapted 
to work of a mechanical nature, he followed the 
carpenter trade without serving any apprentice- 
ship, while he also farmed on the home place. On 
September 21), 1870, he married Elizabeth J. John- 
ston, who was born April 2, 1848, a daughter of 
Frederick Johnston, of Cecil township, this county. 
Mr. and Mrs. Stewart passed the first portion of 
their wedded life on a part of the home farm in 
Smith township, and in 1872 moved to Venice, 
same county, where he farmed for two years; then 
in 1874 he located on part of the home farm in 
Smith township, where he is now residing, all the 
present buildings on the place having been erected 
by his own hands. He is a prosperous farmer and 
stock raiser. Like his father he votes with the 
Democratic party, though taking no active part in 
the contests of the different factions. He and his 
wife are conscientious members of the United 
Presbyterian Church. 



diOHN J. RICHARDS, a representative citizen 
of East Pike Run township, is a son of 
Thomas Richards, who was born November 
18, 1801, in the State of Maryland, where 
he grew to manhood, and on November 28, 1824, 
was united in marriage with Esther Richards, who 
was born June 14, 1807. They moved to Wash- 
ington county, Penn., many years ago, and settled 
on a large tract of land in East Pike Run town- 
ship, upon which he made many improvements. 
He was a Republican in political views, and in re- 
ligion a member of the M. E. Church, with which 
his wife was also identified. They were the parents 
of three children, viz.: John J., Sarah A. (de- 
ceased), and one that died in infancy. The father 
died October 2, 1873, and was laid beside his wife, 
who passed away August 29, 1868. 

John J. Richards was born September 30, 1829, 
on the home farm in East Pike Run township, where 
bis school days were passed. On November 17, 
1857, he married Elizabeth Ward, born August 10, 
1830, in Washington county, Penn., a daughter of 
William Ward, who was born December 16, 1787, 
in Harford county, Md., and coming to Washing- 
ton county, Penn., was there married to Pleasant 
Speers ( born November 29, 1796), daughter of 

53 



Henry and Nancy Speers, who were of Irish de- 
scent, and early settlers of Washington county. 
Mr. and Mrs. Ward were the parents of the follow- 
ing named children: Nancy, wife of James War- 
ren; Solomon; Wilson; Rebecca; James; Eliza- 
beth, wife of John J. Richards; Mary J.; Sarah M., 
wife of Noah Speers; Melissa, Henry, Martha and 
William (the latter three being now deceased). 
The father of this family was a Republican. He 
followed farming and blacksmithing in Allen town- 
ship, this county, and was also a local Methodist 
minister, with which denomination he and his wife 
were identified. He died November 8, 1863, and 
Mrs. Ward entered the dark valley July 12, 1874. 
Mr. and Mrs. Richards have passed their wedded 
life on the~old homestead, consisting of 100 acres. 
An elegant two-story residence, a barn, and other 
buildings, have been erected upon this farm, which 
is an ideal rural home, furnished with all modern 
improvements. Mr. Richards is a Republican, and 
has served in nearly all the township offices. He 
and his wife are members of the M. E. Church. 



DAVID MYERS. The Myers family are nu- 
\ merous in Washington county. They are 
I of German descent, and trace their ancestry 
to one George Myers, who in 1785 pur- 
chased an extensive tract of land situated on the 
north branch of Pigeon creek, on the boundary 
line between Somerset and Nottingham townships. 
The tract, the greater part of which is yet in the 
possession of the family, contained about 700 acres. 
George Myers had eight or ten children, all of 
whom are now deceased. His descendants now 
living are named as follows: David, Henry, An- 
drew, Jesse, Samuel, L<3vi, Jacob, Hiram, Jeremiah, 
Abner, William, John and Anderson. 

Jacob Myers, a son of George, was born in 1784 
in Washington county, Penn., and was a lifelong 
farmer. In 1811 he was united in marriage with 
Miss Mary Swickard (who was born in 1792, in this 
county), and to their marriage came the following 
children: Samuel, David, Levi, Catherine D. (Mrs. 
Oiler), Mary (Mrs. Kammerer), Jessie, Barbara, 
Susan, Daniel, Andrew and Eliza. Of this family 
the five last mentioned are deceased. The father 
served in many township offiaes. He died in 1848, 
the mother in 1886. 

David Myers was born in 1828 in Somerset town- 
ship, Washington Co., Penn., and in his boyhood 
attended school in the home neighborhood. He 
assisted his father on the farm, and upon the death 
of the latter took charge of the home place, con- 
sisting of 232 acres. In 1876 he married Miss 
Margaret Howden, a native of this county, daugh- 
ter of John Howden, and granddaughter of An- 
drew Howden, who was born and reared in Ireland, 
and there married a Miss Nixion, a cousin of Mrs. 



1108 



WASHING TON COUNTY. 



John Arbuckle, of Coffee county. They came to 
this county in about 1789, when the Indians were 
very numerous. For two years their home was in 
a hollow tree fitted up as a room, where two of 
their children were born. Andrew Ilowden was a 
prominent pioneer settler of Washington county, 
and followed farming all his life. He owned sev- 
eral thousand acres of land, which eventually bc- 
came the property of the West family, and also 
owned the island below Pittsburgh, known as the 
Seven Miles Island, which is yet in the possession 
of the family. His children were born as follows: 
.lane, August 4, 1785; James, June 1, ITS' * ; Maty, 
April L0, L792; John (whose sketch follows); Ann, 
April 30, L798; Margaret, April 1,1801; Andrew, 
January 23, 1804; Thomas, September 16, 1807; 
William, January 25, 1810. Of this family An- 
drew was married on March 2, 1831, to Anna 15. 
Dito, and died January 31, 1838; Thomas died 
May 30, 1848, and all are deceased save Margaret, 
who is now living in the State of Ohio. 

John Ilowden was born May 12, 1795, in this 
county, and was reared to agricultural pursuits, 
which he followed through life. On September 
23, 1819, he was married to Elizabeth West, a 
native of the same place, born April 20, 1800, and 
eight children came to tbem, as follows: Frances 
(wife of M. McJunkin, of Washington county I; 
Andrew (married to Louisa Newkirk, of Kansas 
City), formerly a merchant, now a retired stock 
raiser (he has traveled extensively in the South 
and West); Margaret, Mrs. Myers; Elizabeth, Mrs. 
Galaway, of Illinois; Lucinda, Mrs. Kammerer; 
Myra M., wife of Joseph Jennings, professor in 
the Third Ward school in Pittsburgh, Penn.; John 
A. (married to Miss Kiddile), a real-estate broker, 
of Washington county; and Mary Ann (deceased 
in early youth). The parents passed their lives 
in this county, where the father died in October, 
1869, the mother on July 14, 1880. 

After his marriage Mr. Myers settled on the 
home farm, and has given special attention to 
raising cattle. The place contains a coal mine 
which yields a paying quantity. 



w 



aLLIAM M. McNARY. The pioneer an- 
cestor of this eminent family was one 
James McNary, a native of Scotland, who 
sailed to America about 1 760, first locating, 
in the New World, on a farm in York county, Penn. 
His son James afterward moved with his family to 
Washington county, locating in Hanover township. 
Thomas McNary, son of James, was born in York 
county, Penn., and after coming to Washington 
county he bought 219 acres of land called the 
" Sugar Tree " tract. The children of Thomas 
McNary were Samuel, James, David, Joseph and 
Matthew. 



James McNary, son of Thomas, was born Febru- 
ary 25, L803, in Washington county, Penn. In 
1S43 he was married to Miss Caldwell, a native of 
Virginia, and soon afterward settled on a farm in 
Nottingham township, this county, containing 116 
acres of land. The children of this marriage were 
as follows: Ann ( Mrs. McClain), Samuel, John, 
Belle (deceased). Adeline, James ( who has charge 
of the home farm), Joseph and William M. During 
the Civil war Mr. McNary was too old to enlist, 
but he always took a lively interest in public mat- 
ters; he served his township in almost every capac- 
ity, and was supervisor and justice of the peace for 
many years. 

William M. McNary, the subject proper of this 
sketch, was born in 1861 in Nottingham township, 
this county, where he was reared to manhood. In 
1884 he was united in marriage with Jennie Lash, 
who was born in 1863, in Washington county, 
Penn., and they have bad two sons, Walter and 
Albert. Mr. McNary owns a fine farm of L33 
acres, and is very successful in his chosen calling. 




ILL1AM J. ELLIOTT, a prosperous mer- 
chant and substantial citizen of Canons- 
burg, was born December 15, 1857, in 
Cecil township, Washington county. The 
family were natives of New Jersey, where the 
great-grandfather, William Elliott, was married and 
reared a large familv of children. In 1799 he and 
his family crossed the mountains to Washington 
county, Penn., and located permanently on a small 
homestead in Cecil township. His son William, 
also a native of New Jersey, always worked on the 
farm, and when a young man was married to a Miss 
Smith, of Washington county, who bore him three 
children, namely: Ellen (Mrs James Moore), James 
S. and William. The father was a leading poli- 
tician in the Whig party, and in religion was an 
active member of Dr. McMillan's Church, the first 
church founded in Washington county. 

James S. Elliott also passed his entire life on the 
old place in Cecil township, where he attended 
school. He was married to Mary, daughter of John 
Wilson, a native of Allegheny county, Penn., and 
the children born to this marriage were as follows: 
John W., Lizzie, Maxwell, William .1. and Mary P. 
( )f these children Lizzie, Maxwell and Mary P. are 
deceased. John W., the eldest son, attended Wash- 
ington and Jefferson College, then, entering Prince- 
ton at the age of seventeen years, took a post- 
graduate course. After completing his general 
studies he took a course at the Theological Semi- 
nary, graduating with honor in his twentieth year, 
and receiving his first call to preach before he was 
twenty-one. The father was a very prominent man 
in all local enterprises, and during the Civil war he 
was one of the relief committee appointed by the 






WASHING TON COUNTY. 



L109 



county to aid the destitute. He was one of the 
first citizens of Washington county to introduce 
the Spanish Merino sheep. In politics he was a 
Whig and Republican, and served as justice of the 
peace many years, county commissioner two terms, 
and in various other capacities. He first joined 
the Seceder Church, then united with the Chartiers 
U. P. Church, of which he was a trustee. He died 
March 18, 1874, and August 25, 1882, his widow 
followed him to the grave. 

William J. Elliott was born in Cecil township, 
and received a good business education. He man- 
aged the home place for some time, and on Decem- 
ber 14, 1882, was married to Flora J., daughter of 
Enoch Hixon, a native of Canonsburg, Penn. They 
have three sons, namely: James Maxwell, John 
Lloyd and Norwood. In 1886 Mr. Elliott entered 
into partnership with D. F. Young, a hardware 
merchant of Canonsburg, and in 1891 Mr. Elliott 
purchased the entire business, which is now the 
most extensive of any in the place; he handles all 
kinds of farm machinery, in addition to the regular 
lines in the hardware trade. He is an active worker 
in the ranks of the Republican party, and in re- 
ligion is a member of the U. P. Church, to which 
he gives a liberal support. 



JAMES EDWARD LONG, M. D.. is an ardent 
devotee of the ^Esculapian art, to which his 
life has been devoted. He is a son of Thomas 
H. Long, a native of the District of Colum- 
bia, who married Sarah Fullyard. Thomas H. Long 
followed carpentry in early life, and afterward en- 
tered mercantile business at Dunuingsville, Penn., 
thence moving to Independence, same State. He 
finally went to Grafton, W. Va., and conducted a 
hardware business in that place, where he died, 
leaving the following children: Sadie (wife of 
Dr. Hill, of Dunuingsville, Penn.), Thomas C. 
(residing at Grafton, W. Va.), William, James Ed- 
ward, and Harry L. (also in West Virginia). The 
mother died when the children were small, and 
since the death of the father the hardware store 
has been conducted by two of the sons, Thomas C. 
and Harry L., under the firm name of Long Bros. 
Dr. James Edward Long was born in 1862, in 
Washington county, Penn., and attended the com- 
mon 'schools during boyhood. He afterward gradu- 
ated at Independence, Penn., and then took a five 
years' course of study at the academy of Prof. J. 
C. Messenger. After finishing this course he en- 
tered the office of Dr. Parkinson, at Independence, 
also reading medicine three years with Dr. Hill, of 
Dunningsville, Penn. He then passed two years 
at the Baltimore College of Physicians and Sur- 
geons, and returning to Washington county, Penn., 
practiced his profession one year, then returning 
to college, graduated in 1881. On March 1, 18S3, 



he located in Karamcrer, Somerset township, this 
county, where he has since resided. In Jun6, 
L887, he was united in marriage with Miss Maggie 
Kammerer, who has borne him two children: Fran- 
cis O., and Edith Virginia (deceased in early youth). 
1 )r. Long has served in many local offices in Somer- 
set township. The family are all members of the 
Pigeon Creek Presbyterian Church. 



I M , c CLELLAND. The genealogy of the 
\//\ family of this name, in East Finley town- 
ii\ ship, can be traced to Thomas McClelland, 
I ^ a native of Ireland, descended from a 
v sturdy and rugged race who left their 

heather-clad mountain homes in Scotland for the 
North of Ireland during the days of religious per- 
secutions. 

About the middle of the eighteenth century 
Thomas McClelland, then but a boy, left his native 
country for America, landing at Philadelphia, 
where he was employed at various kinds of work 
for some time; then moved to the eastern part of 
the State, and commenced farming on a small piece 
of land he had purchased with his hard-earned sav- 
ings. Here he married Nancy Ferguson, a native- 
born American of Irish parentage. At the break- 
ing out of the Revolutionary war Thomas McClel- 
land enlisted in the defense of his adopted country, 
was in active service and severely wounded on 
several occasions, which caused his return home to 
his wife and little ones before the close of the 
struggle. In 1790 he came to Washington county, 
and located in South Strabane township, where the 
rest of his children were born, and where he and 
his wife passed the remainder of their days, both 
dying at a ripe old age, she several years before him. 
Hugh McClelland, the fourth child in the order 
of birth of Thomas and Nancy (Ferguson) Mc- 
Clelland, was born December 13, 1789, in eastern 
Pennsylvania, and came to Washington county 
with his parents, with whom he lived sometime 
afterward, laboring on the farm and attending 
school during a few weeks in winter. About 1810 
he commenced learning reed-making with James 
McKeown, of Washington borough, which trade he 
followed several years. In 1815 he was married to 
Elizabeth Martin, born February 26, 1795, a 
daughter of Peter Martin, of South Strabane town- 
ship, this county, and the result of this union was 
nine children, as follows: Thomas, born January 
31, 1816, died June 13, 1842 ; Peter M. (special 
mention of whom is made further on); William, 
born August 9, 1820, died January 24, 1821; 
Samuel, born August 14, 1822, died September 3, 
L842 ; Hugh F. and Mary Jane (of whom special 
mention is made further on) ; John, born Novem- 
ber 16, 1830, died September 3D, 1854 ; James, 
born July 31, 1833, died October 14, 1843, and 



1110 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Nancy, bon. July T- J ,, 1836, died * April 26, L838. 
On June 26, 1849, the mother of this family died, 
and in 1 ST> 1 Mr. McClelland was married to Ann, 
daughter of Alexander Craig, of Buffalo township, 
ihis county, and she died in 1882 without issue. 
After his first marriage Hugh McClelland followed 
his trade of reed-making until 1 S'JT, in which year 
he purchased a tract of land in South Strabane 
township, near where his father located when first 
coming to Washington comity. Here he success- 
fully carried on farming till 1833, when he bought 
of Frank Stone a large tract of land lying in East 
I'inley township, not far from the Buffalo township 
line, where he continued to follow agricultural 
pursuits up to 1 8(32. In that year he retired from 
active farm work and removed into the borough of 
Washington, where he lived some years; then took 
up his residence in Claysville, where he peacefully 
passed from earth at the patriarchal age of ninety- 
live years. He was a member of the Presbyterian 
Church, and in politics was a Democrat. Of his 
family only three are now living: Peter M., born 
September 11, ISIS; Hugh !■'., born April 27, 1S23, 
and Mary .lane, born July 31, 182S. 

In 1862 the two brothers, Peter M. and Hugh F., 
rented the home farm in East Finley township, 
which a few years later they purchased. The prop- 
erty consists of 206 acres of prime land, equipped 
with commodious residence and out-houses. The 
brothers have been constant companions from boy- 
hood days, have never married, and are quiet, un- 
assuming men, good citizens and respected neigh- 
bors. Both have been lifelong Democrats. They 
now rent their land, and are living retired lives in 
harmony and peace along with their sister, Mary 
Jane, a spinster, who has been with her brothers 
since 1862, attending to the household duties. 

Such is a brief record of the only surviving re- 
presentatives of the family descended from Thomas 
McClelland, the pioneer immigrant to Washington 
county of over a century ago. 




"^ OBERT K. SCOTT, a leading citizen and 
representative agriculturist of Smith town- 
ship, is a grandson of Abraham Scott, who 
^ was born and reared in Maryland, and when 
a young man came to Pittsburgh, Penn., af- 
terward settling in Washington county with his 
brother Alexander. He purchased a wild tract of 
land near Raccoon postoflice, Robinson township, 
where his active life was passed in agricultural 
pursuits. He was married to Jane Finley, a sister 
of John finley, the founder of Finleyville, and 
reared the following children: Rachel (Mrs. James 
Russell), Mary (wife of Thomas Fletcher ), Ann 
(married to James Kerr), Jane (wife of David 
White), Elizabeth (Mrs. William Scott), Susan 
(married to John McBride), Abraham, finley, Hol- 



land and Samuel. The father of this family was a 
Democrat in politics, and in religion was a member 
of the Presbyterian Church at Raccoon. 

Finley Scott, son of the pioneer Abraham Scott, 
was born in 1800 in Robinson township, this coun- 
ty, and educated in the schools of the neighbor- 
hood of his birthplace. In 1822 he married Mar 
garet Stephenson, a daughter of James Stephenson, 
of Smith township. The voung people first lo- 
cated on a farm in Robinson township, remaining 
there a few years, when they rented a neighboring 
farm, afterward purchasing a place in Smith town- 
ship, where they lived twenty years, and finally 
moved to the home where the remainder of their 
useful lives was passed. The children born to this 
couple were Ann, Robert K., James, Samuel, Fin- 
ley, John, Levi, Jane F. (Mrs. William Cowen) 
and Margaret (Mrs. Thomas Ackleson). Mr. Scott 
was the architect of his own fortune, and owned 
150 acres of land at the time of his death, which 
occurred in 1878. He was a Democrat, and held 
various township offices. In church connection he 
was first a member of the Associate Reformed 
Church, in which he was an elder, afterward unit- 
ing with the U. P. Church at Burgettstown. Both 
he and his wife are buried in the United Presby- 
terian cemetery. 

Robert K. Scott was born November 8, 182-1, on 
the home place in Robinson township, Washington 
Co., Penn., and received his education at the prim- 
itive log schoolhouse of the day. He has been 
reared to agricultural pursuits, which have been 
his life vocation. On June 13, fSTiO, he was mar- 
ried to Miss Rachel, daughter of Matthew Welch, 
of Smith township, and they have had children as 
follows: Margaret A. ( wife of John Moore), Eliza- 
beth H. (Mrs. S. D. Moore), Jennie C. (wife of 
Hugh Lee), Matthew W. and William F. (twins), 
Agnes (married to John Russell), Robert P. (de- 
ceased), Mary C. and Flora M. (wife of T. Nichols). 
Mr. and Mrs. Scott passed their married life on the 
old Mathon farm, where the mother died May 18, 
1865, and the following year the family moved to 
their present home in Smith township. Mr. Rob- 
ert K. Scott adheres to the political faith of his 
forefathers, being a stanch Democrat, and has 
served his township as school director and in vari- 
ous other capacities. In church relation he was 
formerly a member of and an elder in the Associate 
Reformed Church, which is now the United Pres- 
byterian Church, in which he is an elder and active 
worker. 

\ILLIAM HANLIN. The Hanlin family 
for almost a century have been identified 
with the progress and development of 
Hanover township. They have assisted 
in the advancement and support of the schools and 
churches, and all other enterprises which have 




WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



111:! 



served to place Hanover township in its present 
position with the magnificent galaxy of townships 
contained in Washington county. The present 
generation of this family trace thi ir ancestry to 
four brothers, William, John, James and Alexander 
Hanlin, who were children of Alexander and Nancy 
(Stewart) Hanlin, and natives of County Tyrone, 
Ireland. The father dying in County Tyrone, the 
family, consisting of the widow, the four sons and 
three daughters ( Elizabeth, Nancy and Jane), came 
to America in 1792. Their first location was in 
Lancaster county, Penn., where the sons engaged 
in various kinds of employment, in fact, energy and 
health was their sole capital. One daughter, Nancy, 
was married in eastern Pennsylvania, and there 
passed her days. Between 1795 and 1800 the 
other members of the family came further west, lo- 
cating on the waters of Buffalo creek, in Washing- 
ton county, on the " Lawton Farm." The brothers 
continued to work in partnership until the begin- 
ning of the present century, when James purchased 
land near Paris, Hanover township, this county, and 
followed the river, making trips to New Orleans. 
He was married to Miss Miller. William, John and 
Alexander jointly purchased of one Charles Camp- 
bell a large tract of land near Harmon's Creek, in 
Hanover township, this county, to which they moved. 
William was allianced to Anna, daughter of John 
Fulton, of Hanover township, and his wedding day 
was set, but he died before the marriage was con- 
summated. 

John Hanlin was born in 1771, in County Ty- 
rone, Ireland, and in 1823 married Nancy Hanlin, 
a distant relative, and a native of Ireland. Her par- 
ents came to America, locating in Steubenville, 
Ohio, leaving their infant daughter with an aunt in 
Ireland, with whom she crossed the ocean when 
but two years of age. To the union of John and 
Nancy ( Hanlin) . Hanlin the following children 
were born: A. M., Margery (unmarried, living 
with her brothers in Hanover township), William, 
John (a farmer of Hanover township), James (de- 
ceased), and Eliza (unmarried, living with her 
brothers). After his marriage John Hanlin located 
on that portion of the original tract which the three 
brothers had purchased together, where he resided 
the remainder of his life. He died in 1846. He 
was a respected citizen, kind-hearted and generous. 
In 1878 his widow passed away at the advanced age 
of nearly eighty-six years. She was buried beside 
her husband in St. John's Episcopal cemetery, in 
Brooke county, W. Va. They were both members 
of that church. 

William Hanlin was born August 5, 1829, in 
Hanover township, this county, and passed his boy- 
hood on the farm of his father, where his first 
knowledge of farming was obtained. He remained 
at home until the Civil war began, then enlisted at 
Paris, in Company K, One Hundred and Fortieth 



Regiment, P. V. I.; the first active engagement 
was at Chancellorsville, after which he followed the 
fortunes of his regiment until the afternoon of the 
second day at Gettysburg, when he was shot in the 
left leg, while fighting at a point about 200 yards 
northwest of Devil's Den. He was put in an am- 
bulance by his captain and taken to the field hos- 
pital, thence removed to the general hospital at 
York, Penn. His wound kept him from duty until 
the close of the war, when he was honorably dis- 
charged May 20, 1865, and returning to his native 
county, resumed work on the farm. On November 
2, 1865, he was united in marriage with Elizabeth 
Wilson, who was born in 1839, a daughter of Henry- 
Wilson, of Hanover township. They have one son, 
Horace W., who is living at home. The farm, 
which has been the home of Mr. and Mrs. Hanlin 
since their marriage, adjoins the old place which 
he and his brother purchased in 1856. He carries 
on general farming and stock raising. No person 
needs to go hungry or in want when in the neigh- 
borhood of the Hanlins, whose traits of generosity- 
are characteristic of their name. In politics Will- 
iam Hanlin is a most enthusiastic Republican "from 
the crown of his head to the sole of his foot." He 
is a member of the Episcopal Church, his wife 
being identified with the Presbyterian denomina- 
tion. 



DAVID M. FULTON, a respected citizen of 
\ Hanover township, is descended from natives 
j of the Emerald Isle. His grandfather, John 
Fulton, was the first member of this family 
to come to America, and was a distant relative of 
the numerous other emigrants of the same name 
who came from Ireland and settled in Hanover 
township, this county, about the same date. John 
Fulton was born about 1756, in County Derry, an I 
in 1786 was married to Jane Hunter. In 17SS 
this young couple came to America, making their 
first location on a farm in Franklin county, Penn., 
where he labored at various employments. About 
1 798 they concluded to go farther west, and cross- 
ing the mountains made a temporary location in 
Hanover township, Washington Co., Penn. They 
brought their household effects, farming utensils, 
and family^, in a wagon drawn by three horses, 
their two cows being driven along behind. In 
1801 they settled on the farm where David M. is 
now living. Mr. Fulton became a prosperous and 
successful farmer. He died in 1832, followed by 
his widow in 1810, who was laid by his side in Paris 
cemetery. Their children were as follows: James, 
born in 1787, in Ireland; Annie, who never mar- 
ried, and lived to the age of ninety years; Mar- 
garet, who never married, and lived to be seventy- 
five years of age; Jane, died unmarried, and lived 
to be eighty-five years of age; a"d Mary, who 



1114 



WASHINGTON ( OUNTY. 



married Joseph Bell, of Columbiana county, Ohio. 
David M. Fulton, whose name opens this sketch, 
was born February 12, 18*27, on the same farm in 
Hanover township which he now owns, where he 
was reareii to manhood. He was educated in the 
country schools of the neighborhood, and in 1867 
was married to Martha Aten, a native of Hanover 
township, this county. She lived but a short time 
after her marriage, and for his second wife he mar- 
ried Elizabeth, daughter of Joseph and Margaret 
( McGonnigle) Caldwell, of Hanover township. 
Mr. Fulton has always resided on the old home- 
stead, and has always been a successful tiller of 
the soil. In polities he was formerly a Whig, then 
joined the Republican forces, with which he has 
ever since been identified, and both he and his wife 
are members of the Paris United Presbyterian 
Church. They have two sons, James II. and An- 
drew G, both working on the home farm. 



JiAMES H. LUSK was born in 1862 in Alle- 
1 gheny county, l'enn. His father, James M. 
I Lusk, was born in INI 7 in Allegheny county, 
Penn., and received his education in the 
home schools. In 1844 he was married to Miss 
Hannah Snodgrass, a native of this county, and 
their children were Eliza A. (wife of E. H. Sum- 
ney), William B. (who entered the army when yet 
a boy, serving to the close), Martha J. ( Mrs. A. J. 
Adams ), Hugh Is.., Wilson A., Nancy B. (deceased), 
George ( deceased ), James 11. ( subject) and Frank, 
(deceased). Mr. Lusk began life on a farm given 
him by his father, containing eighty-three acres of 
well cultivated land. He died in L889. 

James II. Lusk grew to manhood on the home 
place, and in 1885 was married to Clara, daughter 
of Isaac Sumney, of this county. Her father has 
always been a farmer, and is now living at the age 
of seventy-nine years. After their marriage Mr. 
and Mrs. Lusk continued to reside on the old farm, 
which he has owned since the death of his father. 
They have three children, namely: Edgar C, Clyde 
A. and Ethel B. Mr. Lusk is an advocate of Dem- 
ocratic principles; he has held numerous local 
ollices. The family are members of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church. 



T'HOMAS M. BARCLAY, a prominent citi- 
zen of Carroll township, is a son of James 
Barclay, who was an old resident of Wash- 
ington county. The latter died when his 
youngest son was but six years of age; he 
had a family of eight children, three of whom are 
yet living, namely: John, a resident of Forward 
township, Allegheny county; William, living near 
Coal Bluff, and Thomas M. 



Thomas M. Barclay was born October 13, 1830, 
on the home place in Union township, Washington 
Co., Penn., and was trained to hard work from 
earliest boyhood, as his father left no property for 
the family. At the age of thirteen years he began 
to work on a farm for a Mr. Gaston, with whom Iih 
remained six years, then learned the trades of car- 
penter and builder, which he has since continued 
in follow in Washington county. In 1855 he was 
united in marriage with Margaret J., daughter of 
John McYey, a native of Nottingham township, 
Washington Co., Penn. The young couple resided 
on the McVey farm for five years after their mar- 
riage, then moved to Shireoaks, this county, where 
they lived twenty years, during which time he was 
weighmaster for a coal company. Tn 1882 he 
erected and took possession of the handsome resi- 
de! which they now occupy; he is employed as 

muster mechanic by Blythe & Co. Politically he 
affiliates with the Republican party, and in religion 
is a member of the Presbyterian Church at Monon- 
gahela. Five children have been born to Mr. and 
Mrs. Barclay, namely: Edward, married to Lizzie 
Bradshaw, living on the home place; Joseph; Min 
nie, deceased; Emma, Mrs. Powell; and one de- 
ceased in infancy. 



L 



EVI R. CAMPBELL, a representative citizen 
and popular shoe merchant of Monongahela, 
was horn January 14, 181(5, in Allegheny 
county, Penn. He is a grandson of Levi 
Campbell, who was born February 13, 1798, in 
Chester county, Penn., and was there reared to 
manho >il. He learned the shoemaker's trade, and 
was marrie I to Martha Carson, also a native of 
Chester county, Penn. She bore him the follow- 
ing children: David C; Sarah, wife of Joseph 
Young; Joseph; John; George; James; Amzie F., 
and Martha. Mr. Campbell followed his trade for 
several years after his marriage, and then, in com- 
pany with the Irving ami Kennedy families, moved 
to Carroll township, Washington county. In 1827 
Mr. Campbell came to Monongahela, and opened 
a shoe store which he conducted until 1870, and 
then moved to a permanent home in New Castle, 
Penn. He was a member of the Episcopal Church, 
and in political opinion was actively identified with 
the I 'emocratic party. 

David C. Campbell was born April 'i, 1821, in 
t'hester county, l'enn., where he remained until 
six years of age, when the family settled in Mon- 
ongahela. He was there reared and educated, 
then learned and followed the shoemaker's trade 
for some time, and in 1851 moved to New Castle, 
l'enn. lie was there married to Nancy, daughter 
of Seth Uigby, a resident of New Castle, and she 
bore him the following children: George W., Levi 
R., John, Amzie F., Edward C, James C, Pitta J., 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1115 



Martha A. and Sarah. For li is second wife Mr. 
( tampbell was married to Mary Ann Bush, and 
their children were William, Charles M., David C. 
and Flora. Mr. Campbell was a stanch advocate 
of the principles embodied in the Democratic party, 
and in religion he and his wife were members of 
the United Presbyterian Church. 

Levi R. Campbell passed his youth in Mononga- 
hela and New Castle, receiving a public-school 
education. At the age of fifteen years he entered 
the shoe shop owned by his father, with whom he 
remained three or four years. He passed one year 
in Monongahela, then began to work for John M. 
Sutman, and afterward entered the store of Isaac 
Yohe, finally opening his present shoe store in 
Monongahela. In 1870 he married Sarah A., 
daughter of Messig Haywood, a resident of Mon- 
ongahela, and she has borne him two children: 
Fannie, wife of T. M. Boggs, and Charles. Mr. 
( 'ampbell has been an active business man for 
twenty-one years, and in politics has taken an 
active interest in the Democratic party; has served 
several terms as a member of the council. He and 
his family are members of the Methodist Episco- 
pal Church. 



di J. ANDREWS. Many of the best and most 
intellectual citizens of Washington county 
trace their lineage to the warm-hearted and 
brilliant sons of Erin, of whom J. J. Andrews 
is a worthy representative. 

James Andrews was born in Ireland, where he 
was married, and in 1799 concluded to seek a home 
for himself and family in the United States, whither 
so many of his friends had recently immigrated. 
After landing in America, the Andrews family 
proceeded to Pennsylvania, and made their first 
permanent location near Bavington, in Smith 
township, Washington county. Although a poor 
man, James Andrews possessed an energetic char- 
acter and habits of industry as capital stock, which 
proved very instrumental in the accumulation of a 
competency. He first located on a piece of land 
as a tenant, but was soon able to purchase land, 
and in later years removed to a farm in the north- 
ern part of Smith township, where the remainder 
of his days were passed. This place has ever since 
been known as the " Old Andrews farm." James 
Andrews and his wife passed away on the old farm, 
after a long and useful life. In politics he was a 
Democrat. He was among the prominent cattle 
dealers of those days, and drove cattle over the 
mountains to the markets of the eastern cities, 
eventually succeeding in securing a goodly amount 
of this world's goods. The children of this family 
were seven in number. 

John Andrews was born in 1799, in mid-ocean, 
while his parents were coining to America. He 



was reared on the farm in Washington co;inty, 
Penn., attending to the usual duties of the pioneer 
youth of the day, and receiving his education at 
the log-cabin schools with their primitive furnish- 
ings and puncheon floors. The pupils sat with 
their backs to the teacher and the seats were 
placed around the room; his attendance was lim- 
ited to a few months in the winter season. He 
was married to Mary, daughter of James Christy, a 
native of Ireland, and their children were born as 
follows: Elizabeth J., living in Burgettstown, 
Penn., widow of David Leech; Jeremiah C, who 
followed agricultural pursuits on the home farm 
(now deceased); Mary, deceased wife of Jackson 
Potts, of Florence, Penn.; Nancy A., Mrs. John 
Stroud, of Hanover township, this county, and J. 
J. (whose sketch follows). John and Mary An- 
drews located on the old homestead in Smith town- 
ship, this county, where their lives were passed. 
He was a successful and respected business man. 
In politics he was an enthusiastic Democrat, and 
held various offices in the township with credit to 
himself and satisfaction to his constituents. Both 
Mr. and Mrs. Andrews were zealous members of 
the Burgettstown U. P. Church. He died in 1867, 
and both are buried in the Burgettstown cemetery. 
J. J. Andrews was born September 10, 1S49, in 
Smith township, Washington Co., Penn. He was 
reared to manhood on the home farm, and attended 
the common schools. Soon after his father's death 
he made a trip through the West, but not being 
satisfied with the country, returned to his native 
county, and in 1870 was married to Rebecca Cle- 
land, youngest daughter of John and Rebecca 
(Hindman) Cleland. The children of J. J. and 
Rebecca Andrews are as follows: John C. and 
Susie. After his marriage Mr. Andrews was a 
tenant for some time, but afterward bought a good 
farm in Hanover township, this county, which he 
owns, but is residing on an adjoining place, devot- 
ing his attention to general farming and stock 
raising. "Johnny," as he is familiarly known, is 
very popular among his friends, a good neighbor 
and progressive citizen, ever ready to encourage 
any enterprise, which will benefit himself or neigh- 
bors. In politics he has always voted with the 
Democratic party. 



ipSJ- EORGE BOYD. Among the venerable citi- 
II zens of Hanover township, whose heads are 

V f crowned with the silver of many well-spent 

^""1, years, is found this well-known gentleman 1 . 
The fair "Isle of Erin" was the home of 
his ancestors, and in that country his grandfather, 
John Boyd, first saw the light of day. The latter 
was born about 1747, in County Antrim, where he 
learned the tailor's trade, and was married to Mar- 
tha Mahan. The young people soon thereafter 



1116 



WASIIIXU TON CO L'XTY. 



sailed to America, and with tine ardor John Boyd 
entered heart and soul into the American struggle 
for Independence. He enlisted in North Carolina, 
serving seven years under Gen. Greene and Capt. 
Smith, was employed as a scout much of the time, 
and received several wounds. When the war \v:is 
ended he came to Washington county, Penn., 
locating between Gross ('reek village and West 
Middletown, and there followed his trade. In 
L793 he moved to Hanover township, Beaver Co., 
Penn., and in 1817 located near Harlem Springs, 
Carroll Co., Ohio, where he remained until about 
1840, then returning to Beaver county, Penn., died 
soon afterward, and was buried in the King's Creek 
cemetery. He left the following children: .fames, 
born May 28, 1781; John, born July 20, 1782; 
Mary (Mrs. David Moody, of Carroll county, Ohio), 
born February 2(5, 1784; Agnes (wife of James 
Sharp, of Columbiana county, Ohio), born October 
15, 1785; Sarah (Mrs. James Moore, of Beaver 
county, Penn.), born July 16, 1787; Margaret 
( wife of Robert Campbell, of Columbiana county, 

< (hio), born July 8, 178'J; Robert, born December 
28,1791; Thomas, born October 15, 17U3; Martha. 
born in November, 1795 (killed by lightning); 
Rachel (Mrs. John Anderson, of Iowa), horn in 
September, 17U7; and David, born in June, 1799. 
In politics the father was a Democrat, and in re- 
ligion a member of the Presbyterian Church. 

Robert Boyd was born December 28, 1791, on 
the home farm between Cross Creek village and 
West Middletown. In 1816 he was married to 

< 'atherine McCausland, who was born March 7, 
1 793, daughter of George and Catherine (Kidd) 
McCausland. Mr. and Mrs. Robert Boyd first 
located on a farm in Hanover township, Beaver 
Co., Penn., and in 1834 moved to the home place 
in Hanover township, Washington Co., Penn. He 
was a successful agriculturist, and in politics was a 
Democrat. He died in 1878, having been pre- 
ceded by his wife in 1875, and their children were 
John, born April 15, 1817 (who lived in Hanover 
township, this county); Martha (widow of John 
Smith, of Jefferson township), born October 21, 
IMS; ('atherine (wife of Joseph MeCready, of 
Columbiana county, Ohio), born December 3. L820; 
Margaret (widow of William MeCready), born Au- 
gust 17, 1822; George, born March 7, 1824; Hob 
in, bom February 28, L826; Francis, horn March 
21, 1828 (killed in Wesl Virginia by a falling 
limb of a tree); Presley (a farmer of Columbiana 
county, Ohio), born March 9, 1830; and Mary, 
born February 23, 1832. 

George Boyd was born on the home farm in 
Hanover township, Beaver Co., Penn., and passed 
his youth in attending the schools of the period. 
He spent sevepal years with a sister in Jefferson 
township, this county. In 1880 he was united in 
marriage with Jane, daughter of Peter Lance, a 



farmer, who was married to Jane Nicholson, and 
had children as follows: Eleanor, Emeline, Addi- 
son, Peminda, Jane, Sarah, Theresa, William and 
Matteson. The father died August 24, 1850, the 
mother on March 27, 1857, and they are buried in 
Hopewell Presbyterian Church cemetery, of which 
church they were members and he was a trustee. 
In politics he was a Republican Mr. and Mrs. 
Boyd have for several years been residents of 
Hanover township, Washington county, where he 
is engaged in farming. Politically he is a Demo- 
crat. Mrs. Boyd is a member of the Presbyterian 
Church at Paris, this county. 



TEPBEN POST. Within the confines of 
Washington county, few are the men who 
|i in their chosen vocation have made so 
marked a success as the gentleman whose 
name appears at the opening of this sketch. Many 
a man mistakes his life work, yet by earnest appli- 
cation makes a partial success. Of Mr. Post it 
may be said that he has chosen well. A farmer in 
the full significance of the word. From a poor, 
obscure boy, earning only one hundred dollars a 
year, by his own hard efforts, he has fought his way 
upward. Such men are a credit to any community 
and it is a pleasure to give the following brief 
sketch of him and his family. 

Stephen Post was born August 23, 1824, on the 
farm now occupied by A. N. Hathaway. His father, 
Samuel Post, also a native of Washington 
county, was married to Nellie Day, who bore him 
(lie following named children: Frank, Stephen 
and Martha ( Mrs. Jas. Hilton, deceased many 
years ago). The father was the first to lay down 
life's sorrows, passing to the grave in 1827; the 
mother departed for the Better Land March 28, 
I 853, and they were buried at Bethel C. P. Church 
near Van Buren. Samuel Post in politics was an 
active adherent of the Democratic party; in relig- 
ious faith he was a member of the Presbyterian 
( Ihnrch. 

Stephen Post, our subject, in 1865 came to his 
present home in Franklin township. His farm 
consists of 220 acres, all well improved and equipped 
with excellent buildings, every one of which 
was erected by himself. He is possessed of invent- 
ive genius. He has now a grinding buhr mill of 
his own invention, and with it he grinds most of 
the corn for the neighborhood. He was for a num- 
ber of years a thresher, but now his sons have 
taken his place in that industry. Mr. Post has 
been thrice married: first time to Elizabeth, daugh- 
ter of Joseph Weir, and the results of this union 
were two children: Clarinda, who died April 10, 
lsr>3, and Elizabeth, who died April 29, 1852; the 
mother of these children dying April 8, 1853, Mr. 
Post took for his second wife, Anna, daughter of 



m 





s 






^/ 




<& 



WASHINGTON COUNT? 



1119 



Thomas Ringland, and by her there were three 
children: Hamilton, Joseph Weir and Annie; Jo- 
seph Weir died April 18, 18(56, and Annie died 
March 4, 1860. After the decease of this wife, 
which occurred January 20, 186<l, Mr. Post mar- 
ried Sarah Tucker, daughter of John Tucker, of 
Franklin township, and she has borne him three 
children: John, Mary and Frank. Our subject is 
a lifelong Democrat, and a firm advocate of every 
measure tending to the advancement of his town- 
ship and countv. He has always given liberally of 
bis means to the church, and has for many years 
been an elder in the Presbyterian Church at Pros- 
perity. 



GRASPER SIGHTS, a well-known citizen of 
Donegal township, is the only male repre- 
j) sentative of the family in Washington county, 
Penn. The pioneer ancestor of that name 
was David Sights, who was born in Germany and 
came to America in the latter part of the eighteenth 
century, locating in Washington, Penn., where he 
was married to a lady of Welsh parentage, her parents 
having emigrated from Wales. Their children were 
as follows: John, William, Casper, Frazier, David 
and Jane, all now deceased. Of this family, John 
and William moved West and died there; Casper 
followed the business of a stone mason and con- 
tractor, and built all the bridges on the National 
pike between Claysville and West Alexander (he 
afterward went to Guernsey county, Ohio, and re- 
mained there until his death); Frazier also died 
in that county, and Jane married and went to Mis- 
souri, where she died. The father of this family 
kept a tavern for several years at Coon Island, 
Washington Co., Penn., where the stages then 
stopped on their regular route over the once famous 
road. He remained there several years, and then 
moved to Guernsey county, Ohio, where he followed 
farming. He died August 20, 1841, and his wife 
June 22, 1855. 

David Sights (father of subject) was born No- 
vember 14, 1803, in Washington, Washington Co., 
Penn., and when a boy was brought with his parents 
to Coon Island, this county, where in boyhood he 
worked for different farmers, and attended the dis- 
trict school in the winters. On July 18, 1826, he 
was united in marriage with Martha McMillen,who 
was born November 12, 1803, a daughter of David 
McMillen. Their children were as follows: David 
F., born March 31, 1827 (deceased in New Comers- 
town, Tuscarawas Co., Ohio), was a harness maker; 
Elizabeth J., born March 8, 1829 (widow of E. B. 
Jolley, of near West Middletown, Penn.); Chris- 
tianne, born March 31, 1831 (Mrs. J. L. McGill, of 
Donegal township); Casper (subject of our present 
sketch); John, born October 21, 1835, deceased; 
Susanna, born January 29, 1839, died unmarried; 



and Martha Ann, born June 27, 1841, now living 
with her brother Casper. After his marriage Mr. 
Sights settled three miles northwest of Claysville, 
Donegal township, on a part of the " William Der- 
ringer" tract. Some years afterward he purchased 
of Joseph Campsey an adjoining tract of land, 
where he erected a comfortable dwelling, and passed 
the remainder of his life. Politically he was a 
Democrat, and stood high in the esteem of his 
neighbors. He died July 6, 1861, and his wife 
died September 26, 1868. 

Casper Sights was born March 28, 1833, in Done- 
gal township, Washington Co., Penn., and lived on 
the home farm until the death of his father, receiv- 
ing a common-school education. When his father 
died he took charge of the farm which he now 
owns. On October 15, 1800, he was married to 
Catherine Ann, daughter of William Robertson, of 
Guernsey countv, Ohio. They have had no chil- 
dren. In political life Mr. Sights is an active 
worker in the Democratic party, and has been fre- 
quently elected to township offices by his constitu- 
ents. He is a member of the U. P. Church at West 
Alexander. 



Ji ADD. CLARK. Among the prominent 
business men of Canonsburg, J. Add. Clark 
is one of the leading grocers. He is a son of 
James Clark, who was born February 14, 
1814, in Buffalo township, Washington Co., Penn., 
and received his education at the home schools of 
the neighborhood. In 1853 he was united in 
marriage with Mary, daughter of William Dickson, 
a son of George Dickson, who emigrated from Ire- 
land many years ago, and purchased a farm of 400 
acres in Allegheny county, Penn., where he died. 
His son, William, was born in 1700, and grew to 
manhood on the home place. In early life he was 
united in marriage with Margaret Glenn, who bore 
him children as follows: George A. (a surveyor, of 
Pittsburgh, Penn.), James A. (a practicing phy- 
sician,of Canonsburg,Penn.), Mary( widow of James 
Clark, of Canonsburg), William (a resident of 
Robinson township) and three deceased in infancy. 
When but seventeen years of age the father united 
with the Old Secader Church, during the last 
twenty years of his life was a member of the U. P. 
Church, and was a ruling elder in both churches for 
fifty-five years; in business he was a prominent and 
successful agriculturist. He died March 19, 1872. 
James and Mary (Dickson) Clark continued to 
reside on the home place until 1866, when they re- 
moved to Canonsburg, Penn., where he died in 
December, 1885, leaving the following children: 
William D., Jeanette (since deceased^, Marguerite 
S. (Mrs. C. M. Grier), Anna M. (wife of Rev. D.C. 
Stewart) and J. Add. Mr. Clark was a farmer and 
a stanch supporter of the Republican party, and 



1120 



WASHING TON COUNTY. 



held various local offices. He was first a member 
of the U. P. Church at North Buffalo, then united 
with the one at Chartiers, of which he was trustee 
for many years. 

J. Add. Clark was horn on the home place in 
Buffalo township, this county, where his boyhood 
was passed. In 1891 he opened a grocery store in 

Canonsburg, and now carries a full line of g Is. 

He is a Republican, and in religion was form- 
erly a member of the United Presbyterian Church, 
having since united with the Greenside Avenue 
Church. 



VEN. E. PHILIPS is one of those energetic, 
industrious and cultured citizens who are 
naturally fitted to become leaders in any 
- 1 community where their lot is cast. 



The family are pioneers of Washington county, 
and the grandfather, David Philips, was born in 
1742, in Pembrokeshire, South Wales, and in early 
manhood set sail for the "land of the free and the 
home of the brave." Although a preacher of the 
Gospel, he believed in defending the rights of his 
adopted country, and served three years as captain 
in the Revolutionary war. He then settled on a 
tract of 400 acres of land, partly in Washington 
county, Penn., devoting the remainder of his life 
to farming and ministerial work. When the war 
of 1812 began he was drafted into service, but 
paid the fine rather than to again participate in the 
horrors of war. He accepted no political honors, 
but was a very prominent citizen. He died in 
1829. 

David Philips, son of David, was born April 7, 
1780, in Chester county, Penn., and when yet a 
boy moved to Allegheny county. In 1805 he was 
married to Ann Richardson, born in 1785, daughter 
of Thomas Richardson. Seven children were born 
to this marriage, namely: Thomas, Lucinda, Em- 
ily, Mary Ann, Sarah, Amanda and Even E. ( If 
these children the only two now living are Mary 
Ann and Even E. The father always followed 
agricultural pursuits, owning 150 acres of land on 
the boundary line of Washington and Allegheny 
counties. He died in 1856, and the mother passed 
away in 1870. 

Even E. Philips was born in 181(5 in Allegheny 
county, Penn., where the greater part of his early 
education was received. On February 18, In 17, 
he was married to a Miss Weller, a native of Alle- 
gheny county, Penn., who has borne him children 
as follows: Jacob, Isabelle, Ann, Irene, < Jrlando, 
William, and two deceased. The eldest son is a 
physician in Venetia; Orlando owns the home farm, 
where he is residing with his father; and William 
is a mail agent on the Cleveland & Pittsburgh 
Railroad. 



Mr. Philips owns sixty-eight acres of fine land, 
underlaid with a heavy vein of coal. He has sold 
the coal for $5,400. Politically he is a stanch ad- 
herent of Republican principles, and has served 
faithfully as inspector of elections, and in various 
other ways. In religious faith he is connected 
with the Baptist denomination. 




OBERT HAGGARTY is a son of Samuel 
Haggarty, who was born in County Down, 
Ireland, and was brought to America by 
his parents when but four years old. He 
grew to manhood on a farm in Fayette 
county, Penn., which was located one mile from 
Coal Centre, Washington county, and there at- 
tended the log-cabin schools of the period. In 
early manhood he was married to Elizabeth Blay- 
ney, a member of a prominent pioneer family, and 
she bore him the following named children: Mrs. 
Louisa Kussell, of Fayette county, Penn.; Will- 
iam, living in Monongahela; Samuel, deceased at 
the age of nine years; Johnson, who died in Ohio 
at the age of twenty-two years; Reuben, who went 
to Missouri with $1,500, and died seventeen years 
later, leaving a property of 150,000, and Robert. 
The father died in 1857 at the age of sixty-one 
years. He was a prominent member of the Demo- 
cratic party. 

Robert Haggarty was born March 17, 1835, on 
the old homestead in Fayette county, Penn., and 
there attended the common schools. At the age 
of seventeen years he began to learn the stone- 
cutting and mason trade, receiving for the first 
year's pay $3 per month while learning. The 
second year he received $4 per month, and the 
third year he was paid 75 cents per day, after which 
he began business for himself. He was united in 
marriage with Elmira Amnion, a native of Carroll 
township, and at that time had but $5 with which 
to begin his wedded life. He now owns fifty acres 
of land in Carroll township, and twenty- five acres 
in Fallowfield township, but has given most of his 
time to his trade. In political opinion he votes 
with the Democratic party, and has served in Car- 
roll township as president of the school board. He 
and his wife are the parents of five children, who 
were born as follows: Clarence Linton; Mrs. Mar- 
garet H. Coulter, of Carroll township; Harry El- 
wood, a stone mason of Monongahela; Violet El- 
mira, and Robert I >. 



J | AMES H. FERGUSON, a representative 
farmer of South Strabane township, is a son 
of Harvey W. Ferguson, whose father was a 
native of County Down, Ireland. The latter 
came to America when a young man, and made a 
permanent home in Allegheny county, Peon., where 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1121 



he married and the following children were born to 
him: Mary, Elizabeth, Harriet, David, James, Har- 
vey W., Robert and Hugh. .Mr. Ferguson was an 
active member of the Federalist and Whig parties, 
and in religion was a member of the Presbyterian 
Church at Perrysville. 

Harvey W. Ferguson was born in 1820, on the 
home farm in Allegheny county, Penn., and re- 
ceived his education at the home schools. In early 
manhood he was united in marriage with Grisella, 
a daughter of Robert McElhany, a native of Scot- 
land, whose family consisted of three daughters; he 
was an active member of the Whig party, and in 
religion a member of the Presbyterian Church. 
The young couple settled on the McP]lhany farm, 
where they remained four years, thence removing 
to the home farm. In polities Mr. Ferguson is an 
active worker in the Republican party, and has been 
a school director many years. He and his family 
are members of the Presbyterian Church at Sharps- 
burgh, Allegheny Co., Penn., in which congrega- 
tion he has been an elder twenty years. 

James H. Ferguson was born in Allegheny 
county, Penn., on the home farm still occupied by 
his father, and passed his earlier youth at home, 
attending the common schools. lie afterward en- 
tered NewelTs Institute, Pittsburgh, and remained 
there two years. On December 24, 1875, he was 
united in marriage with Ollie Newton, daughter 
of .1. T. McDonald, of Allegheny county, Penn., and 
five children have been born to them: Frank (de- 
ceased), Alice, Maggie, Travis and Hannah. After 
his marriage Mr. Ferguson remained in Allegheny 
county until 1879, when he came to his present 
farm, consisting of 118 acres of good land, and 
upon which he has made many improvements. His 
home is thirty-two feet square, and the barn is GO 
by 40. He is engaged in farming and stock rais- 
ing, and has recently embarked in the dairy busi- 
ness. In political opinion Mr. Ferguson is a 
Republican, and an active worker in that party. 
The family are members of the First Presbyterian 
Church at Washington. 



GEORGE E. LOCKHART, ex-sheriff of 
Washington county, is a native of the Key- 
stone State, born in Beaver county in 1848. 
His father, George K. Lock hart, a native of 
Lawrence county, Penn., was married in 
Allegheny county to Margaret Ann Savage, who 
bore him three children: William A., a resident of 
McDonald, Washington county; George E., and 
Agnes J., deceased wife of L. G. Mcllhinney, of 
Cecil township. The father died in 1854 of small- 
pox, at the age of thirty-four years, and his widow 
was afterward married to John Allen, by whom 
she had one child, Annie E., wife of J. A. Evans, 
an attorney at law of Pittsburgh. 



George E. Lockhart was re ire 1 by his grand- 
father, William Savage, on a farm near McDonald, 
in this county, his education being obtained at the 
public schools of the locality. Here he remained 
until he was fourteen years of age. In 1864 he 
enlisted in company A, One Hundred and Forty- 
seventh P. V. I., and participated in the fortunes 
of that regiment; was with Sherman at Atlanta, 
and on the march to the sea, his regiment being 
the first to enter the city of Savannah, and was 
present at the battle of Resaca, May 15, L864. He 
was never woun led, but soon after being ordered 
to the front was seized with typhoid fever and was 
sent to hospital at Nashville, Tenn., whither his 
mother went from Pennsylvania to visit him. On 
his recovery he returned to his regiment and served 
to the close of the war, being mastered out of the 
service at Alexandria June 5, 1865, and discharged 
July 21, same year. He then proceeded to the 
home of his mother in Allegheny county, and com- 
menced working in the mines as director of ship- 
ping. In 1 885 he was appointed deputy sheriff 
under Sheriff Hemphill, serving to the close of the 
term, and then, in 1888, was elected sheriff on the 
Republican ticket, for a three years' term, receiving 
a majority of 2,159 votes in the county. During 
this incumbency, the colored murderer, West, was 
executed, the first person hanged in Washington 
county since L867, Mr. Lockhart is a member of 
Stock weather Post No. 60, G. A. R., and of the Jr. 
<). II. A. M. 

[P^ AMUEL ASH BROOK, a leading dentist in 
the boroncrh of Washington, is a native cf 
the county, born September 2, L864, in Buf- 
falo township, where he received a liberal 
education at the district schools. His great-grand- 
father, Simon Ashbrook, was a native of Lancaster 
county, Penn., where he was married to a native of 
the same county, and the children born to them 
were Jacob, John, Margaret, Mary, Nancy, Solo- 
mon, Simon, Abraham, Absolom and William. In 
17 — Simon Ashbrook came to Washington county, 
making a settlement in Buffalo township, where he 
and his wife died. 

Absolom Ashbrook, son of this old pionee*, re- 
ceived his education in Buffalo township, and was 
there married to Elizabeth, daughter of John Brad- 
dock, of Franklin township. They continued to 
reside on the home farm until 1872, when they 
came to Washington borough, where they now re- 
side. Their children were as follows : Airs. Rob- 
ert Lytle, Simon F., John and William (both de- 
ceased), Abraham L., Solomon (deceased) and 
Sarah (Mrs. W. P. Hastings). Mr. Ashbrook in 
politics was a Democrat, and was a warm supporter 
of the Presbyterian Church at East Buffalo. 

Simon F. Ashbrook, father of the subject of these 
lines, was born February 28, 1836, in Buffalo town- 



ir."j 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



ship, this county, and received his education at the 
common schools of the neighborhood of his birth- 
place. Like his forefathers he has been engaged all 
his life in farming and stock raising, and has been 
successful in his dealings. On November 3, 1859, he 
was married to Mary, daughter of Jacob Weirich, 
and children as follows have been born to them : 
Edward, Susan (deceased), Samuel, Benton, Lizzie 
(Mrs. John Flack) and Maude. Mr. Ashbrook and 
family are members of the Presbyterian Church at 
East Buffalo, and in politics he is independent. 

Samuel Ashbrook, whose name opens this sketch, 
at the age of twenty years entered, as a student, 
the dental office of W. L. McCleary, wh^re he re- 
mained one year; in 1885 he commenced a course 
of study at the Baltimore Dental College, where, 
in 1887, he graduated with honors. Returning to 
Washington, Dr. Ashbrook commenced the practice 
of his profession with A. L. Ashbrook, with whom 
he remained a short time, and then again entered 
the office of his preceptor. In July, 1891, he pur- 
chased Mr. McCleary's interest, and has since been 
conducting the business alone. In August, 1890, 
the Doctor was married to Margaret Connors, of 
Toronto, Ontario, Canada, and one child, Edmund, 
has been born to them. Our subject and his esti- 
mable wife are members of the First Presbyterian 
Church of Washington, and in his political associa- 
tions he is a Democrat. 



BERMAN. In the year 1732 Johannes 
Eberman and his son, Johannes, left their 
ancestral home in Ebermanstadt, Germany, 
^ bound for America with the purpose in view 
of making it their home, and with the determination 
to assist in its conquest. The family owned large 
estates in the center of which was the town above 
named. As was the custom, they had their genea- 
logical tree tracing the family back through many 
generations and through centuries of time. Early 
in its history for services rendered, the family, by 
royal grant, was given a coat of arms, and the 
motto thereon — "Ad finem fidelis" — has been a 
source of inspiration throughout successive genera- 
tion^. 

With the pride of birth and station and the sturdy 
courage of the pioneer these two reached London 
and embarked for the land of their choice. The 
records in Philadelphia show that Sept. 19, 1832, 
the good ship " Johnson," of London, landed at 
that port, and in the passenger list are the names of 
Johannes Eberman and son, Johannes, a lad under 
sixteen years of age. These were the first of the 
name to land on .American soil, and the elder was 
the great-great-great-grandfather of John S. Eber- 
man, a personal sketch of whom follows. They 
remained at Philadelphia but a short time, and then 
removed to Lancaster, same Stare, where they at 



once became identified with public affairs. On 
Dec. '22, 1743, the son married Juliana Schweich, 
and their son John, on April 23, 1772, married 
Elizabeth Frank. 

John's interest in municipal affairs led him to 
present to the town of Lancaster a large clock 
which was placed in the town hall. When the 
courthouse was built the clock was put therein 
and for more than 100 years has been repaired and 
wound bv the Eberman family, and at present con- 
tinues to be the timepiece of the city. In "Penn- 
sylvania Archives " it is related that Christopher 
Eberman did gallant service in the Continental line 
of the Second Pennsylvania Regiment during our 
struggle for independence. In the Moravian Church 
records of Lancaster is the complete genealogy of 
the family from 1732 to the present. 

About the year 1815 Jacob, son of Gottlieb, son 
-of Johannes, removed from Lancaster to West- 
moreland county, and settled upon a large tract of 
land in that county. He was married to Jane An- 
derson, a native of Ireland, who bore him the fol- 
lowing children: William, Rebecca, George M., 
W. A., Elizabeth and Samuel. Mr. Eberman was a 
Democrat in political opinion, and in religion sup- 
ported the M. E. Church. He followed building 
and carpentry in Pittsburgh for several years, then 
moved to Elizabeth, Allegheny county, in 1829, 
where he died. 

George M. Eberman was born April 29, 
1821, and reared on the home farm in West- 
moreland county, Penn., and attended the sub- 
scription schools of the vicinity. At the age 
of fourteen years he began clerking in a store 
where he remained until 1854, when he em- 
barked in a general mercantile businese in Cali- 
fornia, Penn. In 1859 he opened a ship-building 
yard in company with William McFall, and they 
conducted that business until .1879, when they dis- 
solved partnership, and he commenced in his present 
general store in California, the firm now being 
known as Hart & Co. Politically Mr. Eberman has 
been a zealous worker in the Whig and Republican 
parties, and has served as a member of the council, 
school director and in several other ollires. He lias 
alwavs been deeply interested in the educational 
work of his locality, and for the past twenty-five 
years has been a trustee of the Southwestern State 
Normal School, at California, of which he was the 
first treasurer. He and his wife are members of 
the M. E. Church, and he has been a trustee of same 
for several years. In early manhood Mr. Eberman 
was married to Ellen, daughter of Peter Wilson, 
of Elizabeth, Allegheny Co., Penn., and the names 
of the children horn to them are as follows: Sid- 
ney, Albert, Mary, Elizabeth, Rebecca, Anna, 
George, John S., Charles, Wilson and Cora. 

John S. Eberman, son of George M. and 
Ellen Eberman, was born March 6, 1859, in 



WASHING TON CO CATI' 



1123 



California, Washington Co., Penn. He received 
a public-school education, and then attended the 
Southwestern State Normal School, at California, 
from which he graduated in 1878. After gradu- 
ating he entered the employ of J. W. Smith, 
a druggist of California, remaining there until 
1882, and then formed a partnership with Miss 
Jennie Smith in the drug business. In 1888 
he purchased her interest, and has since continued 
the establishment, carrying on a full line of drugs 
and sundries, and by good management has se- 
cured a large and profitable custom. On October 
23, 188(5, he was married to Mary G., daughter of 
John Guffey. Mr. Eberman is identified with the 
Republican party, has served in various local 
offices, and in 1882 he was appointed postmaster at 
California, holding that position until the election 
of Cleveland as President, when he resigned. He 
has served as director of the First National Bank 
of California since that institution was first incor- 
porated, and has been treasurer of the Southwest- 
ern State Normal School for the past seven years. 
In religious connection he is a zealous member of 
the M. E. Church. He has in his possession a book 
which has been in the family for 118 years, and 
a number of deeds and articles almost as ancient. 
He is in correspondence with a branch of the family 
in Stuttgart, Germany, who own the leading bank- 
ing house there, and who have sent him the very 
interesting early history of the family. 




OBERT CARR BYERS, M. D., was born 
in Cumberland county, Perm., April 20, 
1820, a son of Isaac and Mary (< 'arr) Byers. 
Abraham Byers, his grandfather, was also 
a native of Cumberland county, born near 
Carlisle, where he was reared and educated. He 
became an extensive teamster or wagoner, his route 
being for the most part between Baltimore and 
Philadelphia, and points farther west, he having as 
many as five teams on the road. This vocation he 
followed for several years and then went West, 
after which nothing was heard of him. He had 
married, in Chester county, Penn., Margaret Bren- 
neman, who bore him two children: Isaac and 
Samuel. 

Isaac Byers, father of Robert C, was educated 
in the subscription schools of his native county 
(Chester, Penn.), and when yet a youth proceeded 
to Philadelphia, where he learned the trade of shoe- 
maker. Soon after completing his apprenticeship 
he moved to Cumberland county, same State, and 
there followed his trade some years, at the end of 
which time he came to Washington county, and 
took up his residence near Canonsburg. Here he 
carried on another trade, that of carpenter and 
builder, up to 1849, in which year he moved to 
Portsmouth, ( )hio, where he died in 1865. In 1811 



he married Mary Carr, a resident of Cumberland 
county, and the following named eight children 
were born to them: Hiram, Elizabeth, Sarah (Mrs. 
James Munn), Mary (Mrs. David Woodring), Ro- 
bert G, Isaac, Fannie and Hannah (Mrs. Masters). 
Mr. Byers was a Democrat in his political sym- 
pathies, and in religion he was a member of the 
M. E. Church, although the faith of his forefathers 
was Presbyterian. 

Robert C. Byers was a boy when his parents 
came to Washington county (in 1823), and it may 
be said of him that he is self-educated, as his school 
experiences were very limited. At the age of ten 
years he commenced to work on a farm, and when 
he was about twelve years old entered the employ 
of his brother, Hiram, in Monongahela (then called 
Williamsport), to learn the tailor trade, becoming 
a journeyman at the end of two years. His first 
venture in business for himself was, in 1839, made 
in Bentleyville, Washington Co., Penn., where he 
carried on tailoring six years. In 1815 he moved 
to Perryopolis, Fayette county, where he remained 
three years. While there he studied medicine under 
Dr. Estep, thence, in 1818, went to Fayette City, 
same county (then called Cookstown), and em- 
barked in the drug business, in which he has since 
continued with eminent success, moving to Belle 
Vernon, Fayette county, in 1860, thence, in 1873, 
to Monongahela, this county, where he now resides. 
On September 17, 1839, Dr. Byers married Emily 
F., daughter of Micajah Churchman, a native of 
Delaware, who was twice married, first time to Eliza 
Sinclair, of New York, who bore him the following 
named children: Sinclair, William, Emily F. and 
Caroline. Mr. Churchman's second wife was Mrs. 
Sarah May, widow of Rev. May, an Episcopal min- 
ister, and by her marriage with Mr. Churchman she 
had three children: Francis M., Edward and Hen- 
rietta. Mr. Churchman was a Whig and a strong 
Abolitionist; in religious faith he was a member of 
the Society of Friends. He was an enterprising and 
well-to-do farmer and stock raiser. The children 
born to Mr. and Mrs. Robert C. Byers were: Albert 
S.; Mary J., married to Isaac Bailey, now deceased 
(they had no children; she resides in Monongahela) ; 
Emma E., married to John Furnier (they reside 
near Allenport, Washington county, and they have 
seven children, viz.: Oliver, Bertha, Robert, Clyde, 
Thurman, Lilly and Garnet); Robert Eugene 
Byers, a leading druggist of Monongahela, was 
married to Miss Josephine Camp; William C. is a 
graduate physician of Jefferson Medical College, 
Philadelphia, and is a member of the medical firm 
of Copeland, Hall and Byers, Pittsburgh and Phila- 
delphia (he married Miss Mary Clark, daughter of 
Capt. Wm. Clark, and resides in Pittsburgh. They 
had two children: Mazey, and Birdie, who died at 
the age of ten months); E Iward I. Byers (de- 
ceased), who was a druggist, and was married to 



1124 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Miss Sarah Nevada Ulark, and had two children: 
Emma and Robert W.; Theodore M. Byers, a dry- 
goods merchant of Monongahela, married to Miss 
Agnes J. ('line, of Nebraska; and Carrie L., who 
died at the age of three years. 

The paternal ancestor of Dr. Robert C. Byers was 
German, while his maternal ancestor was Welsh. 
His grandmother, Mary Bruce, was born in Scot- 
land, whence she came with her brothers, Robert 
and William Bruce, to Cumberland county, Penn. 
The brothers were soldiers in the war of 1812, 
and volunteered under Gen. Scott; both were cap- 
tured and taken to England, and William died in 
a prison; Kobert returned to Cumberland county, 
where he died soon after from the effects of his con- 
linement in prison. Both these brothers died with- 
out issue. Dr. Byers is a member of the M. E. 
Church; in politics he was a Whig and Republican, 
but is now a Greenbacker. He is a member of the 
I. ().(). F. His wife, Emily F., had a birthright 
by her parents among the Society of Friends; there 
being no Society of Friends where she has resided 
since her marriage, she has united with the M. E. 
Church. Dr. Byers ranks among the leading men 
of the town, and he and his wife enjoy the confi- 
dence and respect of all who know them. 



D 



ANIEL SNYDER represents one of the 

earliest and most prosperous families of 

Washington county, his ancestors having 

come to the State over one hundred years 

ago. 

They were probably natives of the eastern por- 
tion of the Slate, although the exact place is not 
known. The grandfather of our subject was the 
tirst of the family to settle in Washington county, 
and he made his home in Nottingham township, 
where his son, Peter, the father of our subject, was 
born and reared. 

Peter Snyder was born February 23, 182:', and 
when a young man learned the trade of shoemak- 
ing which, in connection with farming, he followed 
for vears, but his later life was spent in agricult- 
ural pursuits. In 1 S 17 he married Julia A. Crabb, 
who was born May 9, 1830, in Fallowfield township. 
Her family were also early settlers of the county. 
Her grandfather, Henry Crabb, a shoemaker by 
trade, died in Fallowfield township. His son, Philip 
Crabb, tie- lather of Mrs. Snyder, was twice mar- 
ried; his first wife died without children, and fur a 
second wife he married Elizabeth House, who bore 
him children as follows: Henry, Philip, Elizabeth, 
Julia Ann, Lucy, Charlotte and Caroline. 

The father of these children died in L846, aged 

eighty-four years. The mother died some years 

I. iter. After their marriage Mr. ami Mrs. Snyder 

ed on the fifty-acre tract of land where our 



subject now makes his home, and here their chil- 
dren were born as follows: Mary J., the wife of 
Abram Stecher; Alexander, married to Flora All- 
man; Daniel, of whom mention is made further on; 
John G., who was a farmer of Fallowfield township, 
and died June 30, 1891; Henry M., of Carroll town- 
ship, who married Cynthia Bentley; Luoretia, mar- 
ried to Samuel Beazell; George B., a school 
teacher, of Washington county, still living witli his 
mother; Frank P., a stone mason, who also resides 
at his mother's home; and James S., also on the 
home farm. Of Peter Snyder it may be said that, 
although he began life with no financial assistance, 
by hard work and good business management he 
accumulated a very considerable property, having 
purchased 111) acres of fine land in addition to the 
fifty acres on which his home was first made after 
his marriage; on this large tract he passed the rest of 
his days and his widow now makes it her home. Mr. 
Snyder served his township in almost every capac- 
ity and was one of the most popular men in the 
community. He died November 23, 1S82, at the 
age of fifty-eight years. 

Daniel Snyder, the subject proper of this sketch, 
was born May 9, 1851, on the farm where he now 
resides. On June 16, 1892, he was married to Miss 
Alice Jacobs, a native of Allegheny county, Penn., 
and daughter of Isaac Jacobs, a well-known agri- 
culturist of Washington county, but formerly of 
Allegheny county. Mr. Snyder, while living on the 
old farm, has charge of the entire farm, nearly 1 *'> I 
acres, and carries on a general farming and stock 
business, making a specialty of sheep. He is a 
1 )emocrat in his political preferences, and has tilled 
various local offices. He is a well-known man and 
a worthy son of honored parents. 



1p>jMMOR M. G. CRAWFORD is a native of 
L*l| the county, born one mile from the borough 
of Beallsville, June 3, 1857, a son of Mor- 
^ decai and Catherine (Kreider) Crawford, 
the former a native of Cumberland, Md., the latter 
of Uankintown, Washington county, Penn. Chris- 
topher Kreider, the maternal grandfather of the 
subject of this sketch, was a native of Germany, 
and many years ago came to America, settling in 
Indiana, near Lake Michigan, where he died. His 
son, Christopher, married in Indiana, and in course 
of time came to Rankintown (now called West 
Washington), Penn., and here kept hotel for several 
years, working also at his trade, that of blacksmith. 
Returning to Indiana, he and his wife passed the 
remainder of their days in Cass county, the husband 
dying first, the wife many years afterward at the 
age of eighty-eight years. Their children were: 
Mary, Catherine, Nancy, Christopher, John, Philip, 
Jacob, William, and two that died when young. Of 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



LI 25 



these, William, ( 'atherine and Nancy are living: 
William in Logansport, Ind.; Nancy, in Cass county, 
Ind., and Catherine ( Mrs. Crawford). 

William Crawford, grandfather of subject, died 
in Cumberland, Md. Mordecai Crawford came to 
Washington county, Penn., when but a small child, 
and here learned wagon making with his uncle, 
Samuel J. Rogers, at Beallsville, a trade he fol- 
lowed some twenty-six years. Afterward he carried 
on farming operations for nine years, and then re- 
moved to Indiana. In 1862 he returned to Wash- 
ington county, where he has since resided, and 
with his wife, who is now aged seventy-nine years, 
while he is nearing his ninetieth milestone on life's 
journey, is making his home in Beallsville. They 
are the parents of eleven children, seven of whom 
are now living, vi/,.: Samuel R., in West Pike 
Run township; John A., in Cass county, Ind.; 
Margaret Emma, married to Frank D. Nicholl, of 
Somerset township; Alonzo, in South Strabane 
township; Charles K., in Somerset township; E. 
M. G., the subject of these lines, and Josephine, 
wife of Ira Chamberlain, in Fayette county, Penn. 

E. M. G. Crawford received a liberal education 
at the common schools of his district, and until 
twenty-six years of age lived on the paternal home- 
stead, assisting in the manifold duties of the farm. 
He then learned the photographic art in Washing- 
ton, working for S. G. Rodgers five and one-half 
years,and afterward was employed for six months by 
F. S. Hawkins as finisher. In 1890 he opened a gal- 
lery in Brownsville, Fayette county, Penn., which 
he carried on till 1891, when he returned to Wash- 
ington and commenced business for his own ac- 
count. Mr. Crawford has made a good start, and 
being well-known, exceedingly popular and a good 
workman, devoted to his business, keeping up to 
the times in improvements in his line, has a bright 
future before him. 

On August 28, 1884, Mr. Crawford was married 
to Miss Annie R., daughter of W. C. La Masters, 
of Washington, Penn., and by this union three 
children have been born: Walter M. (deceased), 
and Leola R. and Essie May, at home. 




K. RENSHAW, proprietor of the leading 
livery stable in Washington, was born in 
l\ 1854, in Armstrong county, Penn., as on 
of W. H. Renshaw, a native of Philadel- 
phia, where he followed the occupation of 
a river pilot for many years, but is now a farmer in 
Armstrong county. He married Miss Louisa Rog- 
ers (now deceased), of "old-country" parentage, 
and nine children were born to them, all of whom 
live in Armstrong county except the subject of 
these lines. 

A. R. Renshaw was reared in his native county, 
at the common schools of which he received a lib- 



eral education. Early in life he learned the trade 
of a carpenter, which he followed for several years. 
On February 15, 1890, he came to Washington 
county, and bought out the livery stable which he 
has since successfully conducted. On January 1, 
L890, he was united in marriage with Annie B. 
Kerr, of Armstrong county, Penn. Our subject's 
home is on East Wheeling street. 



E. I >WARDTH< )MAS was born in 1809, in this 
county, a son of Joseph Thomas, who came 
to Washington county at an early period, but 
' years afterward moved to Ohio, and died 
in that State. Edward grew to manhood on the 
home place, and in 1834 was united in marriage 
with Eliza Beck, whose grandfather (Isaiah Beck) 
was born in Philadelphia, and married in his native 
city, afterward moving to Washington county, 
where he died. Edward and Eliza Thomas first 
settled near Canonsburg, Penn., then moved upon 
the. farm now occupied by their son Edmund, and 
reared the following children: Martha Jane (Mrs. 
McClellan, of Tuscarawas county, Ohio), Nancy 
(living in Ohio), Lydia (wife of James Johnson, of 
Ohio), Sarah (deceased several years ago), Isaiah 
(living in Chartiers township), William (living in 
East Finley township, this county), Mary (married 
to Andrew Gamble), Maggie (living in Ohio), 
Anna (deceased in youth), Edmund, Emma (de- 
ceased) and Caroline (Mrs. Baker Lewis, of Tus- 
carawas county, Ohio). The father of these chil- 
dren died in 1885, at the home of his son Edmund, 
lie was an active politician, first as a Democrat and 
then as a Republican. Mrs. Thomas is yet living 
in Tuscarawas, Ohio. 

Isaiah Thomas was born in Canonsburg, Char- 
tiers township, and there received his early educa- 
tion. In 1874 he was united in marriage with 
Miss Mattie Agnew, daughter of Thomas and Sarah 
(Dougherty) Agnew, natives of this county; the 
father died some years ago, and the mother is now 
living with her daughter Mattie. Mr. and Mrs. 
Thomas have two sons : George N. and Albert R. 
Afjer his marriage Isaiah Thomas settled on the 
farm where he is now living. He owns eighty- 
eight acres of the home farm, also fourteen acres in 
Canton township, and has erected a good residence 
and farm buildings on the place, a good gas well 
being an other valuable feature of his farm. Mr. 
Thomas is an active Republican, and has held sev- 
eral township offices. He and his wife are both 
members of the United Presbyterian Church. 

Edmund Thomas was born November 14, 1856, 
in Chartiers township, Washington county. He 
passed his youth in Chartiers township, there re- 
ceiving his elementary education in the district 
schools. After leaving school he began farming 
on the old homestead, which he now owns, and 



1126 



WASHINGTON. COUNTY. 



which consists of 106 acres of fertile and well-cul- 
tivated soil. He has two good gas wells on the 
place, and is a prosperous farmer, devoting con- 
siderable attention to stock raising. Politically he 
is a Republican, actively interested in the success 
of his party, as well as in all worthy public en- 
terprises. 



J [AMES M. MELONEY, a well-known and 
prosperous business man of Midway, is a 
bright example of the results which can be 
obtained by those who possess energy and 
patience, coupled with a willing heart and physical 
strength. He is descended from a pioneer family 
of Irish extraction. 

Samuel Moloney, the grandfather of the family 
at present under consideration, was born in east- 
ern Pennsylvania, where he was married and bad 
two children, Alexander and Rachel. After the 
death of his first wife, Samuel Meloney was united 
in marriage with Nancy Berry, who bore him the 
following family of children: William, James, 
Samuel, John, Mary, Kate, Margaret, Nancy, Rose, 
Ann, Susan and Robert. At the time of the settle- 
ment in western Pennsylvania, the land was wild, 
wolves and other animals yet roaming the forests; 
and like that of other early settlers, the life of 
Samuel Meloney was filled with toil, privation 
and danger. Politically he was actively interested 
in the success of the Democratic party, and in re- 
ligion was a member of the Raccoon Presbyterian 
Church. lie died on the home farm. 

Alexander Meloney was born in the latter part 
of the eighteenth century, on the pioneer farm in 
Allegheny county, Penn., where his entire life was 
passed. He was early inducted into the mysteries 
of agriculture, assisting with the home work. In 
early manhood he was united in marriage with 
.lane, daughter of David McAdams, who bore him 
two sons, James M. and John (deceased). Alex 
ander Meloney was a hard-working man, and was 
actively engaged in the growth and prosperity of 
the Raccoon Presbyterian Church of Robinson 
township, of which he was a member. He w#s 
buried in the Valley Church cemetery. 

James M. Meloney, whose name commences 
these lines, was born July 25, 1N25, in Finley 
township, Allegheny county, Penn., and was 
trained to farm work from early boyhood. He fol- 
lowed agricultural life for several years, and on 
June 17, 1849, selected, as his life companion, Isa- 
bella, daughter of Samuel Eckleson, a native of Ire- 
and, who came with his parents to America. He 
was afterward married in this country to Anna Mo 
i 'ague, and reared the following family of children: 
Thomas, John, Isabella, Martha, Euphemia, Samuel 
and Mary A. The father settled in Allegheny 
county, Penn., where his life was passed. He was 



a Whig and Republican in politics, and in religion 
a member of the United Presbyterian Church. 

In 1871) Mr. Meloney discontinued agricultural 
work, and opened an undertaking establishment 
upon his farm. The business soon increased to 
such proportions that he decided to remove to town 
and devote his entire attention to it. Accordingly 
in 1880 the family moved to Midway, this county, 
where he carried on a very profitable business until 
1 SOI, when he sold out and retired from active life. 
For many years Mr. Meloney has been a zealous 
member of the Raccoon Presbyterian Church, hav- 
ing held nearly all the church offices, and is now 
filling the various duties of elder, trustee, collector, 
and treasurer of the Sabbath-school. Politically 
he is an ardent worker in the ranks of the Demo- 
cratic party. 



JfOHN HUGHES, retired farmer, is a native 
of Washington county, Penn., having been 
born in Atnwell township, May 15, 1821. 
His grandfather, John Hughes, a native of 
Ireland, came to the United States when a young 
man, and participated in the Revolutionary war in 
the capacity of captain. He married Miss Sarah 
Wiley, who bore him seven children: Thomas, 
James, Barnabas, Samuel, John, Annie and Isa- 
bella. The parents of this family both died in 
Washington county, and are buried in the Van- 
Kirk graveyard in Amwell township. 

Barnabas Hughes, third son of Capt. John Hughes, 
was born in Amwell township, Washington Co., 
l'enn., where he was reared to agricultural pursuits, 
attending during a few weeks in winter time the 
schools of the district. He married Annie Van- 
Kirk, of his native township, and they had seven 
children born to them, viz.: James, William, 
Thomas, John (our subject), Sarah (Mrs. Monin- 
ger), Mary (Mrs. J. C. Chambers) and Margaret 
(Mrs. Ross, formerly of Indiana), all now deceased 
except John. The parents died in Amwell town- 
ship, the mother at the age of sixty-six years, and 
the father some years later at the age of eighty-six. 
They were members of the Christian Church, and 
in politics Mr. Hughes was for some time a Jack- 
sonian Democrat, but of later years voted the Re- 
publican ticket. 

John Hughes, the subject of this sketch, spent 
his early life on the farm, attending during the 
winter months the elementary schools of his district, 
after which ha entered Washington College, from 
which he graduated in 1843, taking a classical 
course. He then returned to the farm and renewed 
his life vocation. He taught school for some time. 
In 1855 he removed from Amwell township, having 
bought the Nichol farm in Franklin township, 
which in 1886 he disposed of, and then moved into 
the borough of Washington, where he now resides. 




.«- > 



*% 






: « i\ 





etsti-ijeJ 



MA 



<71?X/i 



7 



w. i shwg tox c o i wty. 



1129 



In 1845 Mr. Hughes was united in marriage with 
Elizabeth, daughter of Samuel Nichol, of Franklin 
township, and they had three children born to them: 
Franklin and Samuel, both of whom died while 
young, and Mary, living with her parents. The 
family are members of the Christian Church, in 
which for forty years Mr. Hughes has been an elder. 
Politically he was first a Republican, but now votes 
the straight Prohibition ticket. 



J /AMES M. DAWSON. The family of which 
this gentleman is a prominent member has 
| for many years been closely identified with the 
interests and progress of Union township, the 
grandfather (James ) having settled here in an early 
day. The latter was born in Ireland, and on arriv- 
ing in America came to Pennsylvania. He located 
on a farm near Pigeon Creek church, in Washing- 
ton county, where the following children were born 
to him: John, Mary, Thomas, Matthew, James, 
Sarah, Jane, Margaret, Elizabeth, Catherine, and 
William. 

William Dawson, youngest child of James Daw- 
son, the pioneer, was born October 4, 1800, in the 
old cabin on Pigeon creek, Washington county, 
Penn., and his youth was passed amid the hardships 
arid dangers inseparable from the life of a frontiers- 
man. In L835 he married Martha Kennedy, ana 
tive of Mingo, Washington county. After their 
marriage the young people resided on Pigeon creek 
until 1847, when they settled on a tract of seventy 
five acres in Union township, same county. Will- 
iam Dawson passed away September 1, 1887, having 
been preceded by his wife, who died June 30, 1883, 
leaving three children, viz.: Mary J., James M. and 
Martha A., all of whom are living on the home 
place. 




ship, this county; Elizabeth, married to Jacob Yohe, 
of Carroll township, this county; Sarah, wife of 
Mark Yohe, cousin of Jacob Yohe; Henry, and 
Jacob. The father died January 13,1834. 

Manuel Stoody grew to manhood on the home 
farm, and in 184(5 was united in marriage with 
Mary, daughter of John Jones, a native of Fallow- 
field township. The following children were born 
to them: Jacob A., Rachel Ann, Melissa J., Will- 
iam M. (deceased; he was a graduate of the South- 
western State Normal School, at California, Penn., 
and became a prominent teacher in the county), 
Louella L. (deceased; she also graduated at the 
Southwestern State Normal School, and afterward 
at the National School of Elocution and < tratory, 
at Philadelphia), and John H., a Methodist minis- 
tor, a graduate of the University of Rochester, X. 
Y. The mother was called to her long home Sep- 
tember K, 1889. Mr. Stoody learned and until re- 
cently followed the carpenter trade, and is now 
farming on his place, which contains seventy acres 
of land, situated about six miles south of Monon- 
gahela, and four miles west of Charleroi. 



ANUEL STOODY is a native of Washing- 
ton county, having been born in 1821 on 
the north fork of Pigeon creek, where his 
-* school days were passed. His father, Jacob 
Stoody, was born of German ancestry in 
179S, in Somerset township, this county, and passed 
his youth on the home farm. When he was a 
young man, a family moved into the neighborhood 
from Maryland. Young Stoody soon made the ac- 
quaintance of Andrew Long, the new-comer, for his 
pretty daughter Barbara was a most desirable addi- 
tion to the social circle. Jacob Stoody and Bar- 
bara Long soon became warm friends, and this in- 
timacy finally culminated in their marriage. Mrs. 
Stoody was born in 1801 and died in 1865, leaving 
the following children: Margaret, wife of Joshua 
Craven, this county; Rosanna, married to John 
Guthrie, a farmer of this county; John; Manuel; 
Mary, wife of James Morrison, of Nottingham town- 

53 



THOMAS M. PATTERSON represents a 
pioneer family of Washington county, Penn. 
His grandfather, James Patterson, was born 
in County Down, Ireland, and received his 
early education in his native land. At the 
age of fourteen years he came with his parents to 
Washington county, Penn., and they settled in 
Canton township, on the farm now owned by John 
McClay, erecting their cabin home in the wild 
woods of the new country. At the age of twenty- 
six years James Patterson was married to Mary 
Miller, a native of ( 'hartiers township, and after 
marriage the young couple settled on the farm in 
Hopewell township, now owned by Lemon Patter- 
son (a grandson). Politically, James Patterson was 
first a Federalist, then a Whig, and next an active 
worker with the Abolitionists. He was among the 
earliest members of the Seceder Church at North 
Buffalo, his parents being also members of that de- 
nomination; he was a member of and elder in same 
for fifty years, holding that office at the time of the 
coalition of the Seceder and Union Churches, and 
was always very active in church work. He was 
also successful in business matters, having made 
his own way in the world. He died in 18B8, in his 
ninetv-second year, and was buried by the side of 
his wife in North Buffalo cemetery. They were 
the parents of the following children: Alexander, 
Thomas, Margaret ( Mrs. Samuel Leper), Elizabeth 
(wife of James Richmond), Jane (married to James 
Armstrong), James, David, Mary (Mrs. Taggart), 
John and Martha. 

John Patterson, son of James and Mary (Miller) 
Patterson, was born on the home farm in Hope- 



1130 



i I". I SHINQ TON C UNTY. 



well township, this county, receiving his education 
in a school which was held in the upper story of a 
log spring house. He was married to Jane, daugh- 
ter of Thomas McClellan, and they continued to 
reside on the old place until his death. John Pat- 
terson was originally an active Whig and Aboli- 
tionist, afterward becoming an ardent Republican; 
he was much interested in school matters, and 
served as school director for years. He was formerly 
a member of the Seceder Church, but later in life 
united with the U. P. Church at North Buffalo, 
contributing liberally to the support of each. Mrs. 
Patterson is yet living, and makes her home with 
her son, Lemon. The remains of Mr. Patterson 
were interred in the cemetery at North Buffalo. 

Thomas M. Patterson, son of John and Jane 
(McClellan) Patterson, was born April 1, 1853, in 
Hopewell township, this county, where his early 
life was passed in attending the public schools, and 
in working on the farm. When but fourteen years 
of age he began business for himself, but remained 
at home some time after reaching maturity. ( )n 
January 3, 1878, he was united in marriage with Liz- 
zie. daughter of William Proudfit,of Smith township, 
this county. For three years after their marriage 
they remained on a farm in Hopewell township, 
then moved to another one in the same township, 
upon which they also lived three years, afterward 
settling in Burgettstown, Penn., where, they 
have since resided. The children of Thomas M. 
and Lizzie (Proudfit) Patterson are John, Willie, 
Kate, Jennie and Thomas M. In 1891 Mr. Patter- 
son was nominated by the Republican party for 
State representative, and was not only elected, but 
ran ahead of his ticket; he is now filling that posi- 
tion. He is a member of the U. P. Church of 
Burgettstown, in which he takes an active interest. 




ILLIAM J. MUNCE, one of the prosper- 
ous agriculturists of th^ county, whose 
residence lias been on East Beau street, 
Washington, since 1889, is a native of 
Washington county, having been born in South 
Strabane township in 1818. 

His father, Robert Munce, a native of County 
Down, Ireland, came to America in 1803, bringing 
with him his wife, whose maiden name was Mary 
Quaile. Her father, William Quaile, came to this 
country and county some years later, and died in 
North Strabane township at an advanced age. 
Robert Munce bought a farm in South Strabane 
township, where, when our subject was but a lad, 
he died at the age of fifty-four years; his wife sur- 
vived him several years, dying at the age of seventy- 
two. They were the parents of the following chil- 
dren: Thomas, William J., Robert (in North Stra- 
bane township), Sarah, Mary, Margaret, Jane 



(widow of Robert Games), and Catherine (wife of 
John McLain, in Texas), all now deceased except 
William J., Robert, Jane and Catherine. 

William J. Munce was brought up on the old 
home farm, which is situated three miles northeast 
of Washington, receiving his education at the 
schools of the neighborhood. After his parents' 
death he married Elizabeth Miller, daughter of 
Hugh Miller, who came from Ireland in 1854, and 
died in Washington, this county, as did also his 
wife. To Mr. and Mrs. Munce nine children were 
born: Robert, Miller and Samuel (all on farms), 
Russell, James, Edward, Mary, and William and 
David (both of whom died when young). One of 
Mr. Munce's three farms lies in the oil belt, and 
comprises 630 acres in one body. Politically, our 
subject is a Republican, but is not now active in 
his party. 




JLLIAM DkGARMO, who for fourscore 
years was a resident of Washington 
county, was a grandson of Paul DeGarmo, 
a Frenchman, who immigrated to America 
and died in Washington county, Penn. 

Jacob DeGarmo, father of subject, was a na- 
tive of the Keystone State, and was united in 
marriacre with Hannah Ames, who was born in 
171*0, a daughter of Joshua Ames, a shoemaker by 
trade. She became the mother of fourteen chil- 
dren, viz.: Elizabeth, William, Sarah, Hannah, 
John, Mary, Martin Smith, Absalom, Jacob John- 
son, . I abez G iff ord, Maria ( wife of William Bell), 
Hiram, Jerome and an infant diughter, twelve of 
whom lived to maturity. Jacob J., Jabez G. and 
Maria are in WestVirginia. She died in 1882. One 
son, Hiram, entered the "Ringgold Battalion," and 
served three years under Capt. Gibson. 

William DeGarmo, the subject proper of this 
sketch, was born December 11, 1810, in Pennsylva- 
nia, and was two years of age when his parents 
moved to Washington comtity, where he was 
reared and educated. On April 15, 1830, he was 
married to Elizabeth Case, a native of this county, 
daughter of Stephen Case, who died when she was 
a child, and their children were Julia A., wife of 
Isaac Hartman (she died July 3, 1801, leaving one 
child, six weeks old, named Lizzie, whose home 
was afterward made with her grandparents; her 
father married, for his second wife, Adeline Dague, 
who bore him two children: ( 1 harles Lindsey and 
Anna May; the father died about the year 1872); 
Hannah, Mrs. Thomas Lytle, of Nottingham town- 
ship; Elizabeth, married to M. Hartley, of Am- 
well township; Lucinda, wife of Adam Fergus, of 
Somerset township; and Maria, who all her lifetime 
remained at home with her parents, caring for them 
in their declining years, and now that they are 
gone, her niece and herself remain at the old home 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1131 



which has been left to her by her father. On Sep- 
tember 6, 1892, Mrs. DeGarmo passed from earth 
at the age of eighty-three years, and six months 
later, Feb. 28, 1893, her husband, at the same ad- 
vanced age, followed her over the "dark river." 
They had been married nearly sixty-three years. 
Mr. DeGarmo was a Democrat and had filled sev- 
eral local offices. They commenced life in a very 
humble way, and all their possessions were accum- 
ulated by hard work and judicious economy. Mr. 
DeGarmo in addition to his farming persuits made 
many sleds out of the roots of trees, and this in- 
dustry he followed in connection with agriculture 
till his eyesight began to fail him. He was gen- 
erally in the enjoyment of good health, was of 
medium size and at the time of his death his hair 
and beard were as white as the driven snow. The 
old homestead contains sixty acres of prime land. 



THEODORE M. BYERS, a leading dry-goods 
merchant of Monongahela, is a native of the 
Keystone State, born November 15, 1852, 
in Allenport, Washington county, as son of 
Robert C. and Emily F. (Churchman) Byers. 

Our subject received a liberal education at the 
common schools of his native town, and early in 
life commenced gaining an insight into the mer- 
cantile business in his father's drug store, where he 
remained several years, completely mastering that 
line of trade. On the death of his brother Edward 
I., he took his drug store, which had but recently 
been stocked, intending to close out the business; 
but after a time concluded to continue it. By 
energy and close attention to business he succeeded 
beyond his most sanguine expectations. In 1880 he 
embarked in his present enterprise, the dry-goo Is 
business in which he is successfully engaged. 

On August 8, 1883, Mr. Byers was married to 
Arrnes J., daughter of James Cline, of Nebraska. 
Mr. Byers is an active Republican in his political 
predilections, and in religion is a member of the M. 
E. Church, in which be has served as steward, and 
of the Sabbath-school of which he has been super- 
intendent eleven years. Socially he is a member 
of Lodge No. 337, F. & A. M., Monongahela, of 
the Royal Arch, Chapter 249, and of St. Otner 
Oommandery No. 7 K. T. Mr. Byers is enterpris- 
ing and progressive, genial in his manner and pop- 
ular among his many friends with whom he has 
surrounded himself. 



AMUEL DUNN (deceased) was born in 
1817, in County Down, Ireland, where he 
received his education, and learned and fol- 
lowed the trade of a weaver. In 1811 he 
was united in marriage with Miss Grace Campbell, 
who was born in 1819, in County Down, Ireland, a 



daughter of William and Grace (Smith) Campbell, 
the former of whom was a merchant there. 

In 1850 Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Dunn, casting 
their eyes to the Western World, embarked at Bel- 
fast, Ireland, on the ocean steamer " Enterprise," 
and a few weeks later landed at New York. With 
but' little capital to invest, the young people suc- 
ceeded in making their way successfully, although 
strangers in a strange land, and finally located at 
McDonald, in Washington county, Penn. Samuel 
Dunn remained there as a tenant for some time, 
when, having saved a considerable amount from 
his hard-earned savings, he bought some land at 
Centre (now known as Midway), in Smith town- 
ship, and followed teaming, hauling coal, etc. 
With the assistance of his faithful wife, who was 
both economical and industrious, he made a fair 
income, and was able to save some money from his 
daily profits. On April 30, 1880, he was laid to 
rest. Mrs. Dunn is now living a retired life, in the 
enjoyment of the respect and good wishes of the 
entire community. She is a consistent member of 
the United Presbyterian Church, as was also her 
deceased husband. 



dM. M< K )RE, M. D., a popular physician of 
Midway, Penn., is the eldest son of .1. S. 
Moore, of Cecil township, this county. Dr. 
.1. M. Moore was born March 26, 1861, in Mt. 
Pleasant township, this county, and received his 
early education in the common schools of the day. 
He then entered ( 'anonsburg Academy, where he 
remained three years, meanwhile paying his way 
by employment outside of school hours. The young 
student soon decided to follow the life of a physi- 
cian, and thus far he and the patients who have 
been under his care may congratulate themselves 
that such was his choice. Every man is undoubt- 
edly adapted to some particular vocation, and that 
I >r. Moore has taken the vocation best suited to 
his talents is demonstrated by the laurels he has 
already won as a healer of bodily infirmities. He 
commenced his medical studies under the direction 
of Dr. J. II. Christy, of Paris, from whom he ob- 
tained a thorough and practical knowledge of the 
medical science. In 1883 he entered Cleveland 
Medical College, graduating February 25, 1885. 
He then began his professional career at Florence, 
a small town in Hanover township, this county, 
where he remained six years, thjnce moving to his 
present home in Midway, this county, many of his 
former patients yet coming from Florence to him. 
Dr. Moore has a large and lucrative practice, and 
enjoys the confidence of all who know him. 

< )n September 23, 1886, he was united in mar- 
riage with Mary, daughter of Robert McCready, of 
Hanover township, this county, and one daughter 
has been born to them, Ola Winifred, 



L132 



WASHING TOy COLWTY. 



In church relationship the Doctor is a zealous 
worker in and devoted member of the United Pres 
byterian Church. Politically he was formerly a 
Republican, but since the temperance question 
arose has been an advocate of Prohibition. 




OBERT McCREADY is a representative of 
an old and well-known family. His grand- 
father, Alexander McCready, was born 
about 17(50, in Ireland, where he married 

Sarah , who was born in 1758. He 

learned and followed the shoemaker's trade. In 
17S(> he sailed for America, and six months after 
his arrival, after making the necessary arrange- 
ments, he sent for his wife. While Mrs. McCready 
was on the ocean her eldest daughter were born. 
Soon after the family was united in this country 
they came to Washington county, Penn., locat- 
ing in Burgettstown, where Alexander worked 
at his trade and other employment. He assisted 
in digging the race for the old mill which used to 
stand southeast of Burgettstown, known as " Mc- 
Farland's Mill," and for doing his work received 
seventy-five acres of land in Smith township. 
He removed to this farm, and passed the remaining 
days of his life in agricultural pursuits. He was a 
Whig in politics. He died February 24, 18150, his 
wife on May '25, 1847, and they were buried in the 
U. P. cemetery of Burgettstown, Penn. They left 
the following children: Ann (Mrs. John Maxwell), 
Alexander, John, William, Robert, Rebecca (wife 
of John Custard), and Mary (Mrs. White), all now 
deceased. 

Robert McCready was born in 1801, near Bur- 
gettstown, Penn., where he attended the rate schools 
of that period, and learning the shoemaker's trade, 
followed it in Burgettstown. In early life he was 
married to Mary Reed, who was born in Allegheny 
county, Penn., in 1797. The young couple lived a 
short time in Burgettstown, thence moving to Pitts- 
burgh, Penn., where he worked at his trade, and 
later conducted a hotel on Smithfield street, oppo- 
site the present site of the " Monongahela House." 
In 1840 he left Pittsburgh and returned to Burgetts- 
town. In 1842 he removed to Hanlin Station, 
Washington county, and there passed the remain- 
der of his life. In politics he was a lifelong Dem- 
ocrat. He died in 1872, his wife having crossed 
the river October IT), 1859, and both were buried 
in the U. P. cemetery at Paris. Their children 
were as follows: Sarah Jane (Mrs. Lewis Saxton, of 
Pittsburgh); Alexander (who died in Brooke 
county, W. Va.); Robert (our subject); Margaret 
Ann (Mrs. William Beall, of Hanover township); 
and Mary E. (married to James Gibson). 

Robert McCready was born December 10, 1833, 
in Pittsburgh, Penn. When but a small boy his 
parents removed to Harliu Station, Washington 



county, where he was educated: he learned the 
trade of a shoemaker. On March 24, 1859, he was 
married to Elizabeth Gibson, who was born No- 
vember 16, 1836, daughter of Robert and Jane 
(• unningham) Gibson, of Hanover township, a 
representative of one of the oldest families in the 
vicinity. The following children have been horn 
to Robert and Elizabeth McCready: Mary (wife of 
Dr. J. M. Moore, of Midway, Perm.); Jennie V. 
(Mrs. John McConnell, of Hanover township |; 
Luella (at home); Robert D. (a clerk at McDon- 
ald, Penn.); James A. and George G. (both living 
with their parents ). Mr. and Mrs. McCready began 
wedded life on the place near Hanlin Station, 
where be worked at his trade, then went to Brooke 
county, W. Va., thence coming to Jefferson town- 
ship, this county. He erected a home on a small 
piece of land which he had purchased in Jefferson 
township, residing there till 1S72, then settled on 
his present piece of excellent farming land, called 
the " old Gibson homestead," in Hanover township. 
He has ever since resided on this tract, being en- 
gaged in general farming, small-fruit growing, 
stock raising and the dairy business, prospering in 
each department. He votes with the Democratic 
party, and in religion both he and his wife are mem- 
bers of the U. P. Church. 



P^REER M.ILVAIN. The Mcllvain family 
were originally natives of New Jersey, 
where the grandfather (also named Greer 
Mcllvain) was born and reared to manhood. 
Over a century has rolled away since he, 
with his brother George, first came to Washington 
county, Penn., and locating on a farm in Somerset 
township, died there at an advanced age. 

Greer Mcllvain, son of the pioneer, Greer, was 
born October 14, 1793, on the farm in Somerset 
township, Washington county, Penn. He attended 
the subscription schools and passed his entire life 
in that township. There he married Jane, daugh- 
ter of Robert C.Campbell. The latter was of Scotch- 
| Irish ancestry, and took part in the Revolutionary 

war. In early life he was married to a Miss Pax 
I ton, and they were early settlers of this county. 
The father died in 1840, at the age of ninety-eight 
years, followed by his wife in her 105th year. 
'I'c Mr. and Mrs. Mcllvain were born Eliza, 
widow of John Kerr, of Butler county, Penn., and 
mother of R^v. G. M. Kerr; Martha, now living 
with her relatives in Illinois, formerly resided with 
her father until his death; Mrs. Margaret Clark, a 
widow, living in Illinois; Mrs. Jane Greenlee, also 
a resident of Illinois; Mary Ann, deceased in 1855; 
R. C, a prominent agriculturist of Somerset town- 
ship; and Greer. The father was a stanch supporter 
of the Republican party, having taken an active 
interest in all public matters. In religion he was a 




> ■-> 



-yi^^^- iS^u? t/cinx^u^^ 



WASHING TON CO UXTY. 



L13-: 



member and elder of the Presbyterian Church, with 
which his wife and daughters were also identified. 
He died in June, 1889, at the age of ninety-six years. 
Greer Mcllvain, son of Greer and Jane, was born 
October 13, 1825, on the home farm in Somerset 
township. He attended some time at the subscrip- 
tion and public schools, and assisted his father with 
the uuties of the farm for several years after attain- 
ing his majority. He was married November 14, 
1850, to Elizabeth, daughter of F. H. Williams, a 
native of Fallowfield township, and a member of an 
old family. In 1861 Mr. Mcllvain came to his 
present home in Carroll township, which is a beau- 
tiful farm of 150 acres, bounded on the east by the 
Monongahela river. lie yet superintends the care 
of the place, and has been a very enterprising citi- 
zen. He is a Republican, and was in the Revenue 
service nine years during the administrations 
of Grant, Hayes, Garfield and Arthur. Mr. and 
Mrs. Mcllvain are members of the Presbyterian 
Church. Their children are Francis William, liv- 
ing in Charleroi, Washington county; Mary Vir- 
ginia, at home; .lames Kdgar, a lumberman of 
Pittsburgh; Charles G., a rising attorney of Pitts- 
burgh and Monongahela; Ida Jane and Rose Ella, 
living on the home place. 



JOSEPH H. LITTLE, M. D. In the year L066 
William the Conqueror, with his horde of Nor- 
mans, effected a landing in England, and at 
the battle of Hastings asserted his claim to 
the throne of England. Of the many thousands of 
descendants to-day of the Norman heroes the only 
family in Ireland who can claim direct lineage are 
the Littles, of whom the subject of this sketch is a 
member. 

Moses Little, his grandfather, was born in County 
Down, Ireland, whence, when a younw man, he 
emigrated to this country, settling in Washington 
county, Penn., where he purchased land in Stra- 
bane (now South Strabane) township. At that 
time Virginia still claimed jurisdiction over this sec- 
tion of the country, and the land was only partly im- 
proved. Wild animals were numerous, and neigh- 
bors had long distances to go through the dense 
forest to visit each other. Moses Little's first 
home on his settlement was made of logs, but that 
has long since given place to modern improve- 
ments, and all that is now left of the surroundings 
of those primitive days is the ever-living spring of 
water which flowed near the door of the old log 
house. Here, in Washington county, Mr. Little 
married Margaret Locke, who had come from Ire- 
land in the same ship he did. They were the par- 
ents of four children, viz.: John, who died in 
Franklin, Venango Co., Penn.; David, who died 
in South Strabane township, Washington Co., 
Penn.; Moses, father of Dr. Little, and Mary, 



deceased wife of Zach. Reynolds (their son, Squire 
D. L. Reynolds, is now a resident of South Stra- 
bane township). 

Moses Little, the third son of Moses and Mar- 
garet (Locke) Little, was born in 1800, on a farm 
in what is now South Strabane township, atid was 
there reared to agricultural pursuits. In 1823 he 
was united in marriage with Miss Xancy, daughter 
of Joseph Harris, of Amwell township, this county, 
and the children born to them were Eni»line (still 
living); Margaret, widow of Samuel W. Melvin 
(deceased), and the mother of two children — 
Alice and Anna; John H., a farmer in South Stra- 
bane township; Leroy Woods, who practiced law 
in Washington, Penn., and died in 1873, leaving 
a widow but no children; Dr. Joseph H. and 
Moses, living in Washington. The father died of 
heart disease November 11, 1875, on the farm now 
owned bv his son Moses. He began life quite a 
poor boy, having been disinherited by his father 
for some imaginary trivial offense, but he made a 
success. At one time he was coroner of the coun- 
ty, and he was an elder in the Cumberland Pres- 
byterian Church. The mother died in 1879 at the 
age of eighty-four years. 

Joseph H. Little was born in Amwell township, 
Washington Co., Penn. (on the line of South Stra- 
bane township), May 6, 1835, and grew to man- 
hood on the farm, sharing in the many duties 
incident to agricultural life. His primary educa- 
tion was received at the common schools of the 
neighborhood, and later he attended select schools, 
after which he entered Washington College, where 
he took a classical course. On June 21, 1855, on 
completion of the college course, he received the 
degree of A. B.; in June, 1858, the degree of 
A. M. from the same institution; in March, 1859, 
M. D. from the University of Pennsylvania, and 
February 22, 1861, Ad Eundem degree of M. D. 
from Columbia University, Washington, D. C. 
During his vacations he taught school, whereby he 
acquired means to enable him to prosecute his 
studies and aid him through his course. Having 
completed his studies, our subject was then ap- 
pointed principal of Blairsville Academy, in Indi- 
ana county, Penn., which incumbency he filled one 
year, and then received the appointment of prin- 
cipal of the academy at West Alexander, this 
county. While at Blairsville he commenced the 
study of medicine under the preceptorship of Dr. 
J. W. Answalt, of that place, afterward continuing 
same under Dr. John Wishart & Son, of Washing- 
ton, this county. He began the practice of his 
profession in Allegheny county, Penn., residing 
one year at Library, that State, and then proceeded 
to Washington, D. C, to fill the position of resi- 
dent physician at a hospital, receiving the appoint- 
ment under President Buchanan. Here he re- 
mained until March, 1861, when he again came to 



L136 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



West Alexander, and commenced practice. He 
had planned to go to North Carolina, but the 
breaking out of the Rebellion caused him to 
change his plans. In West Alexander he re- 
mained some thirteen years, or until 1874, in which 
year, owing to his father's failing health, he came 
into the borough of Washington, where he has 
since remained, successfully practicing his chosen 
profession. The Doctor has been a busy man, his 
ride extending far and wide in the county, and 
even beyond, no weather ever being too cold or 
stormy, and no night at any time too dark or dis- 
agreeable to prevent him from speeding on his 
mission of humanity. His practice is a general 
one, and he has been eminently successful in all 
branches. His library is replete with modern 
works, for the Doctor, busy as he is, finds time to 
drink of the Pierian spring, and he keeps well 
abreast witli the times. 

On .March 26, L862, 1 >r. Little was married to 
Margaret Ann, daughter of Harvey Wadsworth, of 
Allegheny county, of English descent. By this 
union there is one son, George B., now a druggist 
at Greensburgh, Westmoreland Co., Penn. Polit- 
ically Dr. Little is a Democrat, and in 1870 he ran 
for the State Legislature, but the District being 
Republican he was defeated. Socially he is a 
member of the Masonic Fraternity, and of the 
Second Presbyterian Church at Washington. The 
Doctor is possessed of a remarkably rugged con- 
stitution, and is endowed with robust health. He 
would frequently be engaged in harvest work dur- 
ing the day, overseeing the hands, and then at 
night be riding over the country, visiting his 
numerous patients. The residence of Dr. Joseph 
H. Little is No. 215 South Main street, in the bor- 
ough of Washington. 



DR. A. LkGRAND RUNION, a successful and 
\ popular physician of Canonsburg, Penn., is 
I a representative of an old and prominent 
pioneer family of Pennsylvania. His ances- 
tors were among the number of persecuted French 
Huguenots, whose wrongs have been so graphically 
pictured in the immortal lines of Longfellow's 

" Evangeline." 1 >urinu; the Humienot troubles in 

o n ... 

Europe, the family went to Bavaria, and in the lat- 
ter part of the eighteenth century one Richard 
Runion, leaving his native land, came to America, 
locating in New Jersey. Prior to his immigration 
he had married a young countrywoman, Margaret 
•lensenie, who bore him children as follows: Charles, 
Richard (a soldier in the war of 1812, and buried 
nt Meadville), Jonathan, Rachel (buried at Bed- 
ford, Penn. ), and Sarah (buried at Carlisle, Penn. ). 
The father was a plasterer by trade; in church re- 
lation he was a Seceder. 



Charles Runion, son of Richard and Margaret 
Runion, was born in New Jersey, and passed his 
boyhood on the home place. lie learned the plas- 
terer's trade, and followed that vocation throughout 
life, lie married Martha Moorehead, a native 
Chambersburg, Penn., and their children were: 
Richard, William C. ( a resident of Carrollton, 
Ohio), Charles S., Jonathan, Wallace, Margaret 
( widow of George F. Kennedy, who was a captain 
in the war of the Rebellion, and died from the ef- 
fects of wounds received in the battle of the Wilder- 
ness), Mary, Martha ( wife of Isaac Harsh), and 
Rebecca (married to Hugh McCart). Of this fam- 
ily Richard, William 0., Jonathan and Margaret 
are yet living. Mr. and Mrs. Runion moved to 
West Middletown, Penn., some years after their 
marriage, remaining there three years, then went 
to Carrollton, Ohio, where he died. 

Richard Runion was born May 15, 181 ( J, in Cham- 
bersburg, Penn., where his boyhood was passed. 
He then learned the saddler's trade in Carrollton, 
< )hio, following that business nine years, and after- 
ward entered a general store, retiring from busi- 
ness in 1869. When a young man he was united 
in marriage with Dorothy Prosser, a resident of 
Carrollton, Ohio, and live children were born to 
their marriage, namely: A. LeGrand, Etta (wife of 
George A. Cams), Viola, Florence and Martha. 
Mr. Runion has been a Whig and Republican, hav- 
ing served as a member of the council and trustee 
of Canonsburg. His wife died March 2, 1892. 

Dr. A. LeGrand Runion was born September lti, 
1850, in Carrollton, Carroll Co., Ohio. He re- 
mained at home until eighteen years of age, then 
worked eleven months in a printing office at Salem, 
Columbiana Co., Ohio, afterward entering the Free 
Press office in Carrollton, same State. In Novem- 
ber, 1872, he entered the employ of T. M. Potts, 
Canonsburg, Washington Co., Penn., with whom 
he remained until the autumn of 1874. On June 
2, 1874, he selected as a helpmeet Nancy E., daugh- 
ter of Howe Dunlap. After their marriage the 
young couple resided one year in Martin's Ferry, 
Belmont Co., Ohio, and he then took a course at 
the Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy. After leaving 
this, Dr. Runion followed the drug business for 
four months in Sharon, Mercer Co., Penn., then 
opened a drug store in Canonsburg, this county. 
He resided here two years, studying medicine, and 
teaching chemistry and physiology in Jefferson 
Academy. At the end of that time he took a 
three months' course of study in the Homcepathic 
Medical College, followed by two years at the 
Western Pennsylvania Medical College, receiving 
his degree in March, 1888. During his course at 
the Medical College he was the assistant of the 
resident physician of the Allegheny County Gen- 
eral Hospital, and after graduation located in 
Cmonsburg, where he has achieved a well earned 



WASHINGTON COUXTY. 



113" 



reputation as a skillful and intelligent physician, 
having a large and lucrative practice. Dr. Runion 
has made a special study of pathology, bacteriolo- 
gy and microscopy. Politically he is a Republi- 
can, and in church connection a zealous member 
of the Chartiers U. P. Society. 



G'i LINTON TBEPLE was born March 28, 1841, 
in Carroll township, Washington Co., Penn. 
|j He is a grandson of Isaac Teeple, who was 
born August 1, 1760, in the State of New 
Jersey. 

At the age of seventeen years Isaac Teeple came 
to Washington county, Penn., locating at Columbia, 
in "Horseshoe Bottom" (so called by the Indians), 
Carroll township. On November 22, 1788, he 
married Catherine Castner, who was born January 
24, 1772, a member of one of the earliest families. 
The young pair began wedded life on a new farm 
in Carroll township, where he erected a log cabin 
and conducted one of the first distilleries in that 
locality, a business he followed throughout life in 
connection with farming. He was a member of the 
Presbyterian Church, and in politics voted with the 
Democratic party. The names and dates of birth 
of the children of this couple are as follows: Jere- 
miah, October 26, 1790; Christopher and Peter, 
August 6, 1792; Mary, September 1, 1794; Joseph, 
December 13, 1797; Elijah, January 7, 1799; El- 
zath, February 27, 1801 ; Isaac, February 1 1, 1803; 
Michael, May 9, 180,"); Katie, March 29, 1807; 
Christina, April 12, 1809; Susanna, October 20, 
1811; and Teresa, April 4, 1814. The father died 
September 17, 1828, followed by Mrs. Teeple Jan- 
uary 9, 1849, and both were buried in the cemetery 
at Monongahela City. 

Michael Teeple, father of subject, was born 
on the old homestead in Carroll township, and at- 
tended the subscription schools of the neighborhood 
until thirteen years of age. In early manhood he 
married Eliza .)., daughter of Jesse Montra, of 
Monongahela City, and they had four children, viz.: 
Jesse, Clinton, Thomas B., and Catherine 15., wife 
of R. B. Fry. During his earlier life Mr. Teeple 
conducted a distillery, but after the death of his 
parents he devoted his entire attention to farming 
and stock raising. He was a very industrious, en- 
terprising man, and was ever interested in public 
questions, especially those pertaining to religious 
or educational progress. In politics he was an ac- 
tive supporter of the Democratic party, and was 
equally zealous in upholding the Presbyterian 
Church, with which he was identified. He died 
November 6, 1874, followed by his wife March 4, 
1883, and both are buried in the cemetery at Mo- 
nongahela City. 

Clinton Teeple passed his early youth at home, 
receiving a common-school education. In 1862 he 



enlisted in Company E, Twenty-sacond Pennsyl- 
vania Cavalry. After his term of service had ex- 
pired he re-enlisted and remained until the close of 
the war, having participated in all the battles of 
his regiment. He entered as a private, and was 
first promoted to the rank of orderly sergeant, in 
which position he remained eighteen months, then 
became second lieutenant. He was at the battle 
of Winchester during Sheridan's famous ride, had 
two horses shot from under him, and was under fire 
fifty-two times. He was mustered out June 9, 
1865, and returned home to Washington county, 
Penn. On February 15, 1867, Mr. Teeple married 
Margaret A., daughter of William Wickerham, and 
they first located on a farm in East Bethlehem 
township, this county, then lived on another farm 
for six months, after which thev came to the 
home place. In 1875 they went to Lucas county, 
Iowa, but returned to the old place two years later, 
where they have since resided. Mr. Teeple is a 
Democrat, but votes independently; is a member of 
the G. A. R., Post 60; also of the F. & A. M. Mr. 
and Mrs. Teeple have three children, viz.: Nannie 
B., wife of Charles 0. Weaver; C. C. W., and Ger- 
trude M. 



AMUEL B. LINDLEY, one of the success- 
ful business men of Claysville, is a grandson 
of Philip Lindley, who was a native of the 
State of New Jersey, which had been the 
home of the family for many generations. Philip 
Lindley was married four times, and had six chil- 
dren. He learned the trade of a gunsmith, which 
he followed the greater part of his life. When the 
country was wild and inhabited only by Indians he 
came to Washington county, Penn., and amid the 
forests of Morris township selected a small tract of 
land, to which he afterward added, and on which he 
erected a cabin home. He was a soldier in the 
Revolution, and served under Washington till the 
close of the war. While in one battle he was struck 
by a bullet, which inflicted a painful, but not a 
dangerous wound, and as they dare not probe for 
it, the leaden missile remained with him, a relic of 
those days of hardship and danger. Mr. Lindley 
was an earnest, energetic citizen, and in politics he 
was a Democrat. 

Lewis Lindley was born in the pioneer home in 
Morris township, Washington county, and received 
a limited education in the subscription schools. In 
early manhood he was united in marriage with 
Bethany, daughter of Bethuel Day, and the follow- 
ing children were born to their union: Lucretia 
(Mrs. Daniel McAllister), Caleb, Stephen, Blachly, 
Lucinda ( Mrs. Isaac Condit), Samuel B., Hannah 
(Mrs. Andrew Squier), Cordelia (Mrs. Leonard 
Baker), Parmelia (Mrs. Colin Andrew), and Elias D. 
Mr. Lewis Lindley was interested in all public 



1138 



WASHINGTON I OUNTlt. 



movements, and in politics was a Democrat. He 
died in the year 1860, and was soon followed by 
his faithful wife. 

Samuel B. Lindley was born in .Morris township, 
Washington Co., Penn., and received a good edu- 
cation in the common schools. In 1841 he came 
to ( 'laysville, Donegal township, and served an ap- 
prenticeship of two and a half years with Daniel 
Kirk, a harness and saddle maker. He afterward 
remained a year or two in the employ of Mr. Kirk, 
doing the work of a journeyman. He then went to 
West Finley township, this county, where he re- 
mained two years, thence to Greene county, same 
State, and lived there two years. He then engaged 
in the milling' business at Lone Pine, Washing-ton 
county, and three years later purchased a farm in 
West Finley township, residing upon it twelve 
years. Finally he settled in his present home in 
i 'laysville. In early life he married Isabella — 
who bore him two children: Lewis and Lucretia 
i Mrs. Russell). For his second wife he was united 
in marriage with Margaret Laird, and she also had 
two children: Eliza ( Mrs. Theodore Bell ) and John 
K. His third wife was Mary Alexander, and to 
their union were born children as follows: Alexan- 
der, Mary Margaret ( Mrs. Dr. McDough), Mont- 
ville, Elias D., Luther D., Laura L. and Mary. 
For his fourth wife he married Mrs. Mary Hender- 
shot, and they have two daughters: Bessie and 
Cordelia C. . 

On August 8, 1862, Mr. Lindley enlisted in Com- 
pany K, Sixteenth Pennsylvania Volunteer Cav- 
alry, and served throughout the war in the army of 
the Potomac. Before the war he was a Democrat, 
but since that time has voted the Republican ticket. 



f*r AMUEL TAGGART. Among the well- 
known and influential husbandmen of Char- 
tiers township our subject is prominently 
identified, occupying a leading position 
among the agricultural and business men. He is 
descended from an old and well-known pioneer 
family of Washington county. 

James Taggart, the earliest ancestor of whom we 
have an authentic record, was born in Ireland and 
immigrated to America, locating first in Phila- 
delphia, where he was married to Margaret Fer- 
guson, and in 1784 moved to Washington county. 
settling on a farm in Canton township. He was a 
member of the Presbyterian Church, being the first 
trustee elected in Washington county, and the 
organization is yet in existence, having passed its 
centennial. He and his wife both died in Canton 
township many years ago. 

.1 ames Taggart was born on the home farm in 
t 'anton township, and selected a life companion in 
the person of Martha Fergus, who bore him chil- 
dren as follows: Margaret ( wife of Dr. McCall, of 



Cambridge, Ohio), Thomas (deceased in 1836), 
James (living in Canton township), Samuel, Sarah 
(wife of John McClay, Canton township), Rebecca, 
William, John and Mary. Of these children James 
and Samuel are the only ones now living. William, 
John and Mary died of scarlet fever. Mr. and Mrs. 
Taggart settled on a farm in Canton township. 
He was an early member of the Presbyterian 
Church, and in politics was an ardent Democrat, 
being actively interested in county matters. James 
Taggart died in this county .August tiO, 1863, his 
wife having preceded him many years. 

Samuel Taggart, the subject proper of this 
sketch, was born May 5, 1826, on the home place 
in ( 'anton township, this county, and received his 
early education in the township schools. In 1849 
he married Jemima Hannah Kyle, a native of Harri- 
son county, Ohio, and daughter of William Kyle. 
Mr. Kyle was born in Ireland, and came to America 
when but a boy, settling in Harrison county, Ohio, 
where he married a native of Mercer county, Penn., 
and where he followed farming and died about 
1 863. His wife had passed away some years before. 
After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Taggart settled 
in Chartiers township, on 160 acres of land, which 
contained a good gas well. He has put down 
another well since purchasing the farm, besides 
making various other improvements. Mrs. Taggart 
died in 1862, leaving one daughter, Jennie ( wife 
of < (soar Wilson, of Canton township), and in 1866 
Mr. Taggart married Elizabeth Allison, a daughter 
of John and Ann (Paxton) Allison, the former a 
native of Washington county, the latter of Mercer 
county, Penn.; they settled jn this county at an 
early day. Of this union two children were born, 
both of whom died in infancy, and the mother fol- 
lowed them in 1869. In 1887 Mr. Taggart married 
Mary E. Seaman, daughter of Alexander and Mar- 
garet (Daggs) Seaman, natives of this county. The 
father died in 1886, the mother a short time before. 
Mr. Taggart is an active worker in the Republican 
party, and has held various offices, such as member 
of the school board, supervisor, and other offices of 
trust and responsibility. 



d|ACOP. MILLER. 
Heaven is not readied by a single bound; 
We build the ladder by which we rise, 
Prom the lowly earth to the vaulted skies 
And we mount to its summit round by round. 

Never were words more true than is the 
poetic declaration just quoted; true in regard to 
the heavenly life, and equally applicable to our 
struggles for earthly success. Holland pos- 
sessed a wonderful knowledge of human nature, as 
is evinced in every line of his writing, which never 
fails to find an answering chord in the heart of the 



t% 




&#/£suuuj>^ ^{kJ? q asOU 




WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1141 



reader. The really successful business men are 
those who have mounted " round by round" to the 
summit of their lives, pausing not to moan over the 
hardships by the way, but ever climbing higher 
" act to the living present, heart within and God 
o'erhead." Of such material is the gentleman 
whose name opens this biography. 

His father, Charles Miller, was born and reared 
in Germany, receiving an education in the schools 
of his native land. When nineteen years of age, 
Charles Miller bade farewell to the Fatherland, and 
turned his face to the shores of America. After 
bis arrival he first located in Pennsylvania, and was 
married in Lancaster county to Elizabeth Getlmo- 
cher, a lady of German descent, and they reared 
a family of sixteen children. He was a weaver by 
trade, following that vocation until 1827, when he 
came to Washington county and opened a tavern. 
He was a prosperous man, and in politics a member 
of the Democratic party. He died in 1846. 

Jacob Miller was born November 22, 1819, near 
Baltimore, Md., ;md passed his youth at home, re- 
ceiving a country-school education. In 1835 he 
came to Washington county and commenced the 
tanners' trade with N. F. Brobst, remaining four 
and one-half years. On July 1, 184U, he was 
united in marriage with Sarah, daughter of Simon 
Wolf, and to this union were born eleven children, 
two of whom are deceased. Mr. Miller began life 
on a salary of $5.00 per week, and at the time of 
his marriage had $40.00 with which to meet his new 
responsibilities. In 1844 he opened a tin and stove 
store on Main street, being also engaged in roofing. 
He retired from business in 1887, having accumu- 
lated an independent competence. He was one of 
the incorporators of the Gas Company, and also of 
the Natural Gas Company of Washington, and has 
ever been interested in all public enterprises. In 
politics he is an Independent Democrat, and in re- 
ligious faith a member of the M. E. Church. 




OBERT McMILLAN is a son of Robert 
McMillan, whose parents were natives of 
Ireland, and came to America many years 
ago. Robert McMillan, the father, was 
born in 1751, in York county, Penn., where 
he learned the trade of cloth-dressing. He moved 
to Beaver county, Penn., and there followed his 
trade for several years, finally settling on a farm in 
Washington county, Penn. In early manhood he 
was united in marriage with Elizabeth Thompson, 
who was born in 1751, near Canonsburg, Washing- 
ington county. They were the parents of three 
children, of whom Robert was the eldest. The 
father died in 1833; his wife had preceded him in 
1814. 

Robert McMillan was born in 1808, in Fallow- 
field township, Washington Co., Penn., and in 



1837 was united in marriage with Elizabeth Ben- 
nett, who was born in IS 12, in Fayette county, 
Penn. She died in 1805, leaving the following 
children: Leander, who served for three years in 
the Civil war, in the Twenty-sixth Illinois Regi- 
ment (he took part in the battle of Shiloh, was in 
Sherman's march to the sea, and in various other 
engagements; he was shot in the shoulder, and died 
of disease contracted in the service); Harvey, who 
also served three years in the Twenty-sixth Illinois 
Regiment (he was sick for two years, being con- 
fined to hospital for some months; he is now re- 
siding in Pittsburgh ) ; Mary, wife of Jacob Gibson; 
Amanda, deceased wife of Smith Carson; Robert, 
living with his father on the home farm; Jane, 
living at home; Cynthia, also at home; and John, 
who owns a large drug store in Washington. Mr- 
McMillan owns 104 acres of a well-cultivated 
stock farm, six miles from Monongahela, and 
though over eighty-five years have passed over 
him, he is yet aide to superintend the farm work, 
being remarkably active for a man of his age. The 
men of this family have all been active supporters 
of the Democratic party, and in religion all are 
members of the Methodist Church. 



THE WILSON KAMI I .V, of whom this bio- 
graphical sketch treats, are very prominently 
identified with the early leading citizens of 
Washington county. They come of Scotch- 
Irish ancestry. Robert and Thomas were 
the only ones of the family to come to this country, 
and they were from County Antrim, Ireland. 
Thomas married, but left no family. Robert mar- 
ried a Welsh lady, Martha Ewing by name, who 
was an orphan and came from east of the mountains. 
When the Wilsons came to this country is not 
known, as the records are lost, but it was not later 
than some time in the seventies of last century. 
They were married in this country, and settled in 
Cecil township, Washington Co., Penn. In re- 
ligion they were Seceders ( now United Presby- 
terian). In the early times it was customary for 
the neighbors to help each other at log-rollings; 
in harvest time at reaping grain, which was done 
with sickles, and in mowing grass, which was done 
with scythes; and it was considered something to 
be the best reaper or mower in the neighborhood, 
also the best scutcher of flax, which was a common 
employment, as the early settlers made their own 
linen and also their own woolen goods. In those 
days the young ladies, instead of playing the 
piano, had to play on the spinning-wheel, and to be 
a good spinner she must spin her dozen cuts of 
yarn per day. The ladies also helped scutch flax; 
also weave linen, tow-cloth and flannel, all their 
every-day wear being made at home. 



III-.' 



Washington cot/A />'. 



Robert Wilson, while returning from a reaping 
party at one of his neighbors, it then getting late, 
had to go through a large tract of woods, when he 
found he was being followed by a panther. He 
was carrying two sickles, and he kept jingling 
them together and facing the animal; as it moved 
around him, he still kept his eyes on it, and jingled 
his sickles, when at last it gave it up and moved 
off, greatly to Mr. Wilson's relief. Wild animals 
and wild turkeys were quite common then. Robert 
and Martha E. Wilson had seven children burn to 
them, viz.: .lames, Isabell, Jane, William, Annie, 
Thomas and Mary. James married Jane Gilmore, 
by whom he had ten children. Robert, the eldest 
married, had no children. Elizabeth married John 
Murray, the owner of what is now known as the 
" Morgan za farm;" died and left no family. Nancy, 
Bell and Eleanor, all deceased, no family. Mar- 
tha married the Rev. David Collins, and had one 
son, now living in Allegheny, a lawyer by pro- 
fession. William L., a U. P. minister of the Gos- 
pel, married and left one child — Mrs. Yourd, of 
Mansfield, Penn. James married three times, and 
left two daughters and one son by his first wife, 
and two daughters by his second. Thomas, a U. P. 
minister, now living (it is believed) in Portland, 
( (regon, married and has several children. Mary 
A. is now living with her niece, Mrs. Yourd, of 
Mansfield. James, Sr., inherited the old home- 
stead in Cecil township, to which he added others. 
James, Jr., and Robert were both fa'iners, in poli- 
tics Republicans, in religion United Presbyterians. 

Thomas Wilson, youngest son of Robert and 
Martha Wilson, was educated at Washington and 
Jefferson College and was a Seeeder minister of 
the Gospel, lie was pastor of Carrollton Church, 
Carrollton, Ohio. In 1N41 he married Jane Brown, 
of Smith township, Washington Co., Penn., and 
they had four children: James B., Robert I)., 
Martha J. and Thomas E. The sons all responded 
to the call of their country during the Rebellion. 
Thomas E. died of measles while in Alabama, and 
was interred there. Robert married and has two 
children: William and Nannie; lives in Jefferson 
county, Ohio. James married and has two children: 
Carrie and Eva Mary; lives in Harrison county, 
Ohio. Martha J. married and lives in .Jefferson 
county, Ohio; no children. Their father, Thomas, 
inherited his uncle's estate in Cecil township, 
Washington county, which he sold. 

William E. Wilson, second son of Robert and 
Martha E. Wilson, was reared to farm life, and de- 
voted his time to agricultural pursuits. He was 
married to Margaret, daughter of John Park, a son 
of Samuel and Margaret Park, natives of the North 
of Ireland, who came to America in the same ves- 
sel and were married in America; they were six 
months on the ocean, the passage being a very 
stormy and perilous one. The ancestral records 



were lost, and we have no knowledge of their an- 
cestry. Samuel Park dealt considerably in horses; 
he returned three times to Ireland, and imported 
horses from that country. They settled in Done- 
gal township, Lancaster ( 'o., Penn., where they re- 
sided until the close of the Revolutionary war. 
There were born to them three sons and two 
daughters: John, James, Isabell, Mary and Hugh. 
In the autumn of 1777 Simuel Park came over the 
mountains into what is now Washington county, 
and bought of Matthew Rogers, of Yohogania 
county, Colony of Virginia, in consideration of 
£450 in hand paid, a parcel of land on Chartiers 
waters, and containing 566 acres, the bill of sale 
being dated December 7, 1777. He then returned 
to Lancaster county. His sons, John and James, 
were sent in advance to clear the land, build a 
cabin and plant a crop. Their sister Isabell came 
as housekeeper. The preparations being made, the 
rest of the family moved out. 

John Wilson was born December 18, 1758, mar- 
ried Sarah McDowell in June < ;]7S7, and from them 
has sprung the Park family/one of whose history 
we are endeavoring to sketcn. Sarah McDowell 
was the daughter of Hon. John McDowell and 
Agnes Bradford, his wife, and was born October 
'J4, 1769. Mr. McDowell was born September 23, 
1736, in the North of Ireland, near Belfast. Noth- 
ing is known of his ancestry except that they came 
from Scotland, and that his father was a judge and 
a man of prominence. But to return to John, the 
father of Sarah: When a young man he came to 
this country and lived awhile in or near Elizabeth- 
town, N. J., where he met and married Agnes 
Bradford, and they afterward lived for some years 
at Peach Bottom, York Co., Penn. In company 
with the Bradfords, Scotts and Allisons of that re- 
gion, they removed to Washington county about 
the year 177M. Mr. McDowell obtained a tract of 
land containing 410 acres, and erected a log cabin 
which has been rendered memorable as being the 
place where Rev. John McMillan, D. D., preached 
his first sermon in this western country, as learned 
from the Doctor's diary (this was on the fourth 
Sabbath or '2'2d day of August, 1775). This log 
cabin was afterward superseded by a two-story log 
cabin with a mammoth fireplace, which was long 
considered the finest dwelling in that vicinity. 
Mr. McDowell was one of the first elders in Char- 
tiers church; one of the first commissioners of 
Washington county; one of the Council of Censors 
for the State, and was appointed one of the As- 
sociate Judges of the Court of Common Pleas for 
Washington county, by the Governor, Thomas 
McKean. We now return to Sarah, his daughter, 
who married John Park in June, 1787; they set- 
tled on a farm there owned by him, called "Ex- 
periment," where they lived seven years. His 
father having died, he then bought the homestead 



U'AS/IIXtWtX VtMWTY. 



m$ 



called "Deer Park," where they spent the remain- 
der of their days. John Park, though quite young 
at the outbreak of the Revolutionary war, did not 
withhold his services from his country. During 
that struggle he acted as a scout for some time, and 
rendered valuable service, but was in no severe 
engagement. He preceded his parents in their re- 
moval to Washington county. He is said to have 
recrossed the mountains over a dozen times, and 
brought back salt and other necessities, which com- 
modities were carried on pack horses, and journeys 
were slow and wearisome, and they were occasions 
of much fatigue, exposure and self-denial. During 
his early history he had frequent calls from the In- 
dians, but these were generally of a friendly charac- 
ter. He was an active member of the church, and 
for years served as a trustee. One of them relates 
that she never knew him to stay at home from 
church, even on stormy days. Sarah Park, his 
wife, was of vigorous mind and extraordinary in- 
dustry; she was in every sense a helpmeet to her 
husband. This incident will illustrate her nerve: 
A wolf caught a lamb in the meadow below the 
house, and she saw it in the act, and seizing a stick 
started in pursuit of it. By the time the wolf 
reached the fence, she was close upon it, and in at- 
tempting to cross, the lamb was dropped, and she 
recovered it alive, though severely wounded. Like 
her husband, she was a devoted Christian. They 
often walked five miles to church when the roads 
were bad, or the horses had been worked hard in 
the busy season. One of the family remembers 
that she walked more than she wanted to, and says 
"when mother thought they ought to go, there was 
no alternative." The first cabin was built over one 
hundred years ago. It was constructed of roughly 
hewn logs, puncheon floor, and had but one room. 
This sufficed until enough land was cleared to 
afford sustenance. Then a two-story edifice was 
built, which was considered superior to the average 
house of the neighborhood, as it had glass windows 
and a floor of boards. This was burned down about 
the 1st of August, 1836, with a part of the con- 
tents. The furniture in early times was plain, but 
durable; the chairs were split-bottomed, straight- 
backed and unpainted; carpets were at first un- 
known, and afterwards were home-made; the cook- 
ing was done at an open fireplace, with its crane 
and andirons, the baking being done either in the 
Dutch oven or in an outside oven; the dishes were 
decorated with colored figures much like some of 
the present time; pewter dishes, spoons and plates, 
and also wooden ones, were used. The writer of 
this sketch saw quite a quantity of George Wash- 
ington's household goods, and among other things 
were some plates such as are common at the present 
day — white, with a blue edge; some were pewter 
and some were wooden; also a pewter coffee-pot. 
A secretary, bequeathed by Judge McDowell to 



John Park, and considered in his day a fine piece 
of furniture, is now in possession of one of the de- 
scendants, and also the family clock, extending 
from the floor to near the ceiling. The clothings of 
the early settlers was chiefly of home manufacture, 
being made of flax or wool. Mrs. Park was con- 
sidered an expert she could spin her sixteen cuts 
per day, and could weave her ten yards of cloth 
per day — six yards being an ordinary day's work 
for women. This home rnanufasture formed the 
ordinary wear for both male and female, except on 
special occasions, when the latter would wear 
calico, costing at that time about $1 per yard. 
Bonnets were mostly of straw, and were worn two 
or three years without change. The men in early 
times wore knee-breeches to church, and on special 
occasions; at home they wore linsey pants and 
woolen wamuses. Shoes for wearing abroad were 
made of thick cloth with leather soles, and in win- 
ter shoes were made of strong leather sewed with 
flaxen thread well waxed. The school-house was 
about a mile from home, and was constructed of 
logs; the room was separated into two parts, the 
larger being laid with puncheon floor and occupied 
by the school, while the smaller part was used as a 
stable to keep the master's horse in during school 
hours. The seats were small logs split and shaved, 
and were without backs; the windows were made 
by cutting out a portion of a log and covering the 
aperture with greased paper to admit the light. 
The term only lasted three or four months. 

The Park family attended the Chartiers church, 
the pastor being Rev. John McMillan, 1). D. He 
usually gave them two long sermons, with a half 
hour between as intermission. He paid little re- 
gard to dress, and often appeared in the pulpit in 
knee-breeches made of buckskin (the fronts of them 
so japanned with grease that they glistened), and 
without either coat, vest or suspenders; but his 
heart was in his work, and he gave them the Gos- 
pel truth in an impressive manner. The writer of 
this heard the Rev. John Lee say that when Doctor 
McMillan and another minister ( whose name the 
writer forgets) were on their way from east of the 
mountains to Washington county, their provisions 
ran out with the exception of a little parched corn 
and bear's grease; that after they had eaten this a 
few times, and their stomachs turned against it, 
they prayed that as they were engaged in the 
Lord's work He would provide them with what 
they needed. They were asked if the Lord gave 
them anything else to eat. "No," said they, "but 
He gave us stomachs to eat what we had." They 
traveled for days without coming to any habita- 
tion, and at night lay down without anything over 
them except the blue sky and stars. Carriages 
were unknown then, and the traveling was by 
horseback principally, with a pair of saddle-bags 
to carry what they wanted to take with them. The 



[144 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



produce was hauled in wagons to Pittsburgh, and 
there sold. Wheat varied in price from 50 cents 
to *1 per bushel; corn and oats from 12 cents to 
50. The river was crossed sometimes in skirl's, but 
chiefly in flat-hoats propelled by poles. Teams 
were afterward taken across in horse-boats. When 
in market butter was sold sometimes as low as 5 
cents per pound, and at other times as high as 50; 
eggs as low as 6^ cents per dozen, and as high as 
30. The social gatherings were chiefly weddings, 
singings, huskings, quiltings and log-rollings. The 
weddings generally occupied two days; on the liist 
the groom was attended by a company of his friends 
to the home of the bride, their way being often ob- 
structed by trees being felled across the way by 
mischievous neighbors, or other obstructions placed 
in the way. What part the Park family took in 
these amusements the writer does not know. 

But to return to the family: John and Sarah 
Park had ten children born to them, viz.: Agnes, 
John, Samuel, Wiljiam, Margaret, James, Isabell, 
Sarah, McDowell and Rebecca. Of these, Mar- 
garet married, May -SI), 1822, William E. Wilson, 
son of Robert and Martha E. Wilson, and for seven 
years they lived on the old homestead farm of the 
Wilsons. On April 10, 182 ( J, they settled on a 
farm called " Plenty," near Burgettstown, Washing- 
ton Co., Penn., which they had purchased a short 
time before. He was a successful farmer and wool 
grower. In 1837 he was elected elder in the Se- 
ceder Church of Burgettstown, a position he held 
until the union with the Associate Reformed Church 
in 1858. He stood aloof from this union, and re- 
mained a Seceder. He died ( )ctober 2, 1870, when 
almost eighty years of age, being followed in 1884 
by his widow in her eighty-fifth year. They had 
eight children: Sarah A., Samuel P., Martha E., 
Nancy (deceased), Isabell V., John P., Rebecca 
(wife of Thomas Malone ), and William L. (de- 
ceased). 

Samuei, P. Wilson spent his early years at home 
on the farm, and then engaged in the mercantile 
business, continuing until 1871. He was post- 
master at Burgettstown from 1805 until 1871, and 
for several years he was treasurer of the Union 
Agricultural Association. In the fall of 1871 he 
purchased a farm near Gordonsville, Va., and in 
March following he moved his family thither. He 
was married to Margaret Campbell, of Smith town- 
ship, Penn. Mrs. Wilson died July 21, 1S87. In 
November, 1887, he sold out at Gordonsville and 
moved his family to Chinook, Mont., and stayed 
there until 1890, when he returned to Burgetts- 
town, where he at present resides. They had four 
children, viz.: Robert C, Maggie A., William E. 
and Jennie E. Martha E. Wilson is the widow of 
Alexander Russell (deceased), formerly of Bur- 
gettstown. John P. Wilson's biographical record 
will be found at page 284, this volume. 



William 1.. Wilson, son of William E. and 
Margaret P. Wilson, was born on the home place 
in Smith township, where his youth was passed. 
He attended the public schools, receiving a thor- 
ough training in the common branches. Though 
he selected agriculture as his life work, yet he be- 
lieved education to be essential to any department 
of life. In IS88 or 1889 he bought the residence 
of the Rev. J. T. Frederick, in Burgettstown, and 
the following spring moved to town. He was un- 
married, his two sisters, Sarah and Isabell, living 
with him. On the evening of the 25th of October, 
1892, while returning from the farm to his home in 
town, he had to cross the railroad track.' A freight 
train was just moving off the crossing, and at that 
moment he stepped on to cross over, when he was 
struck by the limited express and instantly killed. 
He could not see the express for the freight train. 
In religious matters he was a United Presbyterian. 
In politics he was a Republican, cast his first vote 
for the Republicans, and so continued. 



JOHN II. CHARLTON, proprietor of the 
widely known and popular meat market in 
the borough of Washington, is a grandson of 
Robert Charlton, who came from Germany to 
Washington county in 1813, and died at Cook's 
Place, Chartiers township, in 1828, his wife (who 
accompanied him from the Fatherland I dying some 
time later. They had children as follows: Samuel, 
Joseph (now in Iowa), John, Daniel, Jacob and 
Robert. 

Samuel Charlton, son of Robert, was born in 
Germany, and came with his parents to this country 
and county. 15y occupation he was a wagoner on 
the National pike between Washington, Penn., and 
Baltimore, Md. He was twice married, first time 
to Miss Shipe, who died leaving two children: 
Robert (now deceased) and Frank (in Mannington, 
W. Va.). His second marriage was with Mrs. 
Elizabeth Marie (nee Hervey), a lady of Irish 
parentage, and they had a family of five children, 
as follows: John H., our subject; Mary, wife of 
Fred Hood, of Washington; Susan, also in that 
borough; Rebecca, deceased wife of Henry Lle- 
wellen (she died in 1874), and Samuel M., in 
Washington. The parents, soon after marriage, 
came to live in the borough of Washington, where 
the father died about the year 1858, at the age of 
fifty-four years, the mother in L876, at the age of 
sixty-five. 

John H. Charlton, of whom this sketch more 
particularly relates, was born in this county, in 
1842, and his boyhood was passed alternately in 
attending the schools of the neighborhood of his 
birthplace and laboring on the farm till coming 
into the borough of Washington. Here he carried 
on a butchering business till 1870, when he moved 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1145 



to Ohio and there conducted a similar line of trade 
until 1880, in which year he returned to Washing- 
ton, and opened out his present meat market, in 
which he has met with unqualified success. 

In October, 1 ST'J, Mr. Charlton was united in 
marriage with Miss Armmella A. Levering, of Knox 
county, Ohio, and four children were born to th*em, 
viz.: Mary L., wife of Charles L. Stone; and Addie 
H., Ethel B. and Clayton 13., all at home with their 
parents. Mr. and Mrs. Charlton are members of the 
Second Presbyterian Church of Washington. In 
politics he is a Republican, and at one time served 
as assessor. He was but a lad of sixteen when his 
father died, and, being the eldest of five children, 
had for years to give all his earnings toward the 
support of the family. 



BENJAMIN F. BENTLEY, a leading and 
influential citizen of Monongahela, is a na- 
) tive of the county, born in Carroll town- 
ship in December, 1821. I lis grandfather, 
Sheshbazzar Bentley, was born in Chester county, 
Penn., where he learned the trade of millwright, 
which he followed in both that and Washington 
counties. In Chester county he was married, and 
had one child, Hannah. Afterward he came with 
his little family to Washington county, a wagon 
being their mode of conveyance, in which they 
brought all their chattels. They crossed into the 
county through the river at what is now Mononga- 
hela, and for the first night camped out near 
where the present fair grounds are located. They 
then proceeded up Pigeon creek until they arrived 
at a point where Mr. Bentley established a mill 
site and built the first mill on the creek. On an 
adjoining hill he,put up for himself and family a 
log cabin, in which they lived some years, and then 
erected a hewed log house, where he passed the 
remainder of his pioneer life. He also at this 
place founded, in 1SP3, the village of Bentleyville, 
in Somerset township. His children, born in this 
county were House, George and Sheshbazzar. Mr. 
Bentley was a Democrat in politics, and in relig- 
ious faith a member of the Society of Friends. 

House Bentley attended in his early boyhood 
the subscription schools of the neighborhood of 
the place of his birth, Bentleyville, until he was 
old enough to work, when he entered his father's 
mill to learn the trade. While a resident of 
Bentleyville he married Fannie, daughter of Will- 
iam Wallace, of Somerset township, and the chil- 
dren born to them were Hannah (Mrs. John Ken- 
nedy), Elizabeth, Sheshbazzar, William, Martha, 
Margaret, Benjamin F. and Amanda ( Mrs. Joshua 
Stevens). After marriage Mr. and Mrs. Bentley 
moved to Carroll township, where he built a mill 
on Mingo creek, which he carried on many years. 
In 1824 he moved to a farm near Monongahela 



river, and there passed the remainder of his busy 
life, dying in 1852, a member of the M. E. Church. 
Politically he was a Whig, actively and enthusi- 
astically patriotic, and was considerably interested 
in militia matters, having at one time been a 
general. 

Benjamin F. Bentley was reared in Carroll 
township, in the primitive subscription schools of 
which he received a fair education for those early 
days. The schoolhouse was made of logs, the 
floor and seats being rough puncheons, and the 
windows of greased paper in lieu of glass. He 
lived on the farm four or five years after marriage, 
and then came to Monongahela, where he has since 
made his home. He built his present comfortable 
and commodious residence in 1873. In 1849 Mr. 
Beutley was married to Mary, daughter of Daniel 
Van Voorhis. They have no children. They are 
members of the Baptist Church, in which he has 
served as deacon, and in his political affiliations he 
is a Republican. Mr. Bentley represents a family 
prominent and influential in the affairs of Wash- 
ington county. 



E. LACK. Samuel Black, the first of this family 
in Washington county, of whom there is any 
PJ record, was born in 1775, in County Down, 
Ireland, where the family were all farmers. 
In 1791 he came to America, landing in New 
York, whence in 1793 he proceeded to Washington 
county, Penn., and here embarked in trading, Open- 
ing a general store in Williamsport (now Mononga- 
hela), the first in the place, which he conducted a 
few years. This store was known as the " Old Red 
House," and stock was brought from the East on 
pack horses, and traded for farm products which 
Mr. Black would take to New Orleans, down the 
river on flat boats, there sell for cash, proceed to 
New York, purchase a new stock of merchandise, 
and bring same back to Williamspoit. He pur- 
chased of Joseph Parkison a lot near First street, 
on which he erected a house and store combined; 
also bought large tracts of land in Washington 
county, and at the time of his death was one of the 
largest landholders in the county. In 1824 Mr. 
Black built the first mill at Dry Run (a "tramp 
mill"), the power for which was supplied by oxen, 
and he operated a sawmill on Pigeon creek. He 
also erected the glass factory at Dry Run, besides 
the dwelling houses surrounding same. In short, 
he was a thoroughly representative self-made man, 
a progressive and useful citizen. His death occurred 
in 1846. 

In 1793 Mr. Black married Mary ,who bore 

him the following named children: Elizabeth (Mrs. 
William Bentley), Maria (wife of Dr. Simuel. 
King), Mary, Simiiel, Marcus, Cyrus, Caroline (Mrs, 
Robert Smith), Jane ( Mrs. Win. S. Mallingar), Ross 



1 1 41', 



1 1 . 1 5 IIING TON C O I XTY. 



Wilson S., Mary (Mrs. George A. Clark), and Hes- 
ter A. (Mrs. John McNeal). In his political prefer- 
ences Mr. Black was a Federalist, and in his church 
connection was a leading Presbyterian, and one of 
the first trustees of his church. 



GBARLES W. ADAMS, for sixteen years a 
well-known harness maker in the borough of 
Washington, and since 1890 a prominent 
real-estate dealer and insurance broker, is a 
Virginian by birth, having first seen the light on 
May 10, IS tit. 

His father, Charles Adams, also a native of Vir- 
ginia, a miller by trade, married Charlotte, a daugh- 
ter of James Yates, also of that State, and they had 
three children, our subject being the only survivor, 
the other two having died when young. The father 
departed this life in 1843, aged forty-three years, and 
the widowed mother continued to reside in Virginia 
until her son, Charles W., was about eleven years 
old. She passed from earth in 1808, in Marion 
county, W. \ r a., at the age of sixty-three years. 

Charles W. Adams received a limited education 
at the public schools of the neighborhood of his 
home, but being fatherless had to commence work 
very early in life. When eleven years old he en- 
tered upon a three years' apprenticeship to the har- 
ness business in Taylor county, Va., and before 
finishing, attended school for a time, but in this 
essential his opportunities were of necessity much 
circumscribed. His mother was not exempt from 
toil either, for, having lost the greater part of her 
means through becoming security for others, she 
had to seek employment in order to support herself 
and son during his boyhood days. After finishing 
his trade, Mr. Adams moved to Marion county, 
same State, where, as already related, his mother 
died. In L863 he was married to Sarah Weddle, 
whose parents were of Wheeling, YV. Va., and 
three children came to this union: Alice and Louisa, 
now living in Washington, and one that died in 
infancy. In 1882, while residing in Washington, 
the mother was called to her long home, at the 
early age of thirty-five years. In 1867 Mr. Adams 
moved with his family to Wheeling, W. Va., where 
he carried on a harness business for his own account 
until 1874, in which year he came to Washington, 
Penn., and embarked in the harness trade, which he 
carried on with satisfactory success until 1890, when 
he sold out and engaged in his present real-estate 
and insurance business. 

Under the President's call, in 1863, for "more 
men" to suppress the Rebellion, Mr. Adams enlisted 
in Company E, Sixth West Virginia Cavalry, and 
served in Virginia and West Virginia to the close 
of the struggle. He participated in many engage- 
ments, but was never wounded, though he had a 
narrow escape from capture on November 28, 1864, 



when he was obliged to swim the Potomac to save 
falling into the hands of the enemy. Along with 
him was a personal friend, James A. Taggart, who 
was a better swimmer; Mr. Adams struck a stiff 
current and thought he would drown before getting 
out of it, so called to his comrade, who was swim- 
ming ahead of him, for help. Taggart responded 
by turning back, with true patriotic friendship, but 
by dint of much struggling our subject succeeded 
in reaching the shore, where, thoroughly exhausted, 
he laid down among some weeds, while the enemy 
passed by fortunately without seeing him. His 
wife was with him up to the time of his plunge into 
the river, and she fell into the hands of the Con- 
federates, who, after searching her trunk, released 
her without further molestation. Poor Taggart 
died of " spotted fever" while in the service. At 
the close of the war Mr. Adams was sent to the 
plains of Nebraska and Colorado, on Indian service, 
and in this as in his war experiences, he escaped in- 
jury of any kind. In IS66 he returned to West 
Virginia, and in 1867 settled down to his trade in 
Wheeling, as above narrated. In 1884 Mr. Adams 
married, for his second wife, Alice Weddle, sister 
to his first, and by this union two children were 
born, viz.: Charlotte, in 1885, and Charles W., in 
1891. Our subject is a member of the G. A. R., 
W. Templeton Post, of Washington, also of the 
I. ().(). F. He and his wife are members of the 
First M. E. Church. 



CAPTAIN ROBERT PHILLIPS is a son of 
William Phillips, who was born and reared 
| in Pennsylvania, and was united in marriage 
with a widow lady, Mrs. Elizabeth (Matthews) 
Paden. She was the mother of, four children by 
her first marriage, namely: Samuel, Mary, Marga- 
ret, and Martha. After the death of Mr. Paden she 
became the wife of William Phillips, and bore him 
the following children: John, Rezin, David, Jane 
(wife of Abraham Van Voorhis), Nancy (married 
to William Wickerham), and Robert. The father, 
who was a miller by trade, died in Fayette county, 
Penn., when Robert was eight months old. After 
the death of her husband Mrs. Phillips was married 
to William Jones, of Monongahela. 

Captain Robert Phillips was born March 31, 1817, 
near Broadford, Fayette county, Penn. When 
about ten years of age he came to Monongahela, 
and there received a public-school education. At 
the age of fifteen years he began life for himself, 
working on a farm for several years, then went on 
the Monongahela, Ohio, and Mississippi rivers. He 
was promoted from a deck-hand to the position of 
mate, and in 1866 became captain of a vessel, hav- 
ing run on both freight and passenger service. < >n 
March '.'•'), 1839, he married Olivia, daughter of 
lj-njamin Parkison. She died July !•>, 1880, and 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1141 



on January 5, 18S8, he was united in marriage with 
Anna, daughter of John Longwell. Mr. Phillips 
has won success by earnest, unremitting efforts, and 
thoucrh the struggle was a hard one, many amusing 
incidents occurred tD brighten his early life. In 
politics he alliliates with the Democratic party, and 
in relio-ion he is a member of the Presbyterian 
Church. 



I IffAHTIN M. SLATER (deceased) was a 
Vjyi native of Donegal township, this county, 
\Xi\ born August 4, 1815, on his father's farm. 
^ He was of Irish ancestry, his grandfather, 
v William, having been born in County 

Down, Ireland, where he was educated, and mar- 
ried to Elizabeth Bell, a resident of the same 
county. He immigrated to America soon after the 
Revolutionary war, and took a farm of 160 acres, 
lying near West Alexander, in this county. Soon 
afterward he purchased a farm south of West Alex- 
ander, where he made a permanent home. He had 
five children, namely: Betsey, Margaret, Jane, 
David and James. Politically Mr. Slater was a 
Republican, and in religion a member of the Pres- 
byterian Church. 

James Slater was born in 1787, in Donegal town- 
ship, and was there married to Citherine, daughter 
of Manning Martin. Mr. Martin was born in 
County Down, Ireland, and came to America in 
early manhood. He was united in marriage with 
.lane Thomas, of Wilmington, Del., and she bore 
him children as follows: Martha, Hannah, Cather- 
ine, Margaret, Jane, Leah, Mary A., Rachel, Sarah 
and John T. Mr. Martin came to Washington 
county and settled in Djnegal township, where he 
remained until his death. In religious faith he was 
a Presbyterian. After their marriage Mr. and 
Mrs. James Slater settled on the old home farm in 
I) inegal township, and reared the following family 
of children: William, Martin M., David, Eli/.a 
(Mrs. Joseph Miller), Mary A. (Mrs. John McKa- 
han), John (deceased), Caroline (Mrs. G. W. 
Anderson), Melissa (Mrs. Thomas Show), Rachel 
(Mrs. Roland Craig), and James E. Wheeling. Mr. 
Slater was a successful and enterprising business 
man. In politics he was an active member of the 
Wtiig party. He died June 27, 1857, his widow 
on August 24, 1872. 

Martin M. Slater was reared and educated on the 
old homestead. On April 3, 1845, he was married 
to Margaret, daughter of Rjbert Nixon, a resident 
of I »onegal township, and native of County Antrim, 
Ireland. To this union were born six children: 
Mary C. (deceased), Mariin (deceased), Leah, Sarah 
(deceased), Luther T. and C. K. Mr. Slater passed 
the first years of his married life in West Alexan- 
der, and engaged in the butcher business. He then 
served four years as a constable and was repeatedly 



re-elected. He carried on a wagon trade from 
Cumberland to Wheeling; then farmed one year 
on the Noble farm, and spent the next year in 
Ohio, after which he proceeded to Brooke county, 
where he remained eight years. In politics he 
was originally a Whig, voted for W. H. Har- 
rison in 1836 and 1840, and in later years he was 
a member of the Republican party. He died 
April 30, 1892. 

C. K. Slater, a son of Martin M. Slater, was 
married on July 8, 1880, to Lillie, daughter of 
Jackson Mitchell, of Waynesburgh, Penn., and 
they have two children: Vera and Fred M. Mr. 
Slater is a Republican in politics. 



di S. MOORE is a prominent representative of 
one of the old families of Cecil township. He 
is a son of John Moore, whose parents were 
born in Ireland, and coming to America about 
the time of the Revolution, settled in North Stra- 
bane township, Washington Co., Penn. Their son, 
John, was a native of Chartiers township, this 
county, where he was reared. He married Marga- 
ret Mytee, a native of the same township, and they 
had nine children, namely: Samuel (who died in 
March, 18S4, in Mt. Pleasant township, this county), 
Ellen (wife of David McCalmont, of Mt. Pleasant 
township), J. S., Mary (Mrs. John McCalmont, of 
Mt. Pleasant township), Margaret (widow of John 
L. Gormley, of Dickinson county, Kans.), Eliza 
(Mrs. Thomas McCallister, of Smith township), 
John (who died in the West), David (living in 
Missouri) and Rebecca (living in Allegheny 
county, Penn.). The family afterward moved to 
Mt. Pleasant township. Both parents were mem- 
bers of the I". P. Church at Hickory, this county, 
in which the father was for years a ruling elder, 
and in politics he was an ardent Whig. While 
attending the raising of a church in Hickory in 
1834 he was accidentally killed. Mrs. Moore died 
in 1882. 

J. S. Moore was born in 1820, in Chartiers town- 
ship, this county, and in early boyhood came with 
the family to Mt. Pleasant township, where he 
received his education in the subscription schools. 
In 1800 he was united in marriage with Margaret 
McBurney, a native of Robinson township, daugh- 
ter of James and Jane (Acheson) McBurney. Mr. 
and Mrs. Moore resided in Mt. Pleasant township 
until 1813, when he bought and moved upon sev- 
enty-six acres of land in Cecil township, where 
they are now living. Six children have been born 
to them, as follows: James C. McBurney, a physi- 
cian and surgeon of Midway, this county (married 
to Mary McCready); Jessie, living at home; John 
T., residing with his parents; Jennie O, a teacher 
of this county; Joseph S. and Mary E., living at 



1148 



WASHING TON C 1 '.YTY. 



home. Mr. and Mrs. Moore are members of the 
Chartiers United Presbyterian Church at Canons- 
burg, Penn. In politics he votes the Republican 
ticket, and is an enthusiastic supporter of Prohibi- 
tion. 




OBERT CAMPBELL McILVAIN was 

born November 8, 1827, in Somerset town- 
shin, this county, a son of Greer Mcllvain, 
whose father was also named Greer. The 
grandfather was born in Lancaster county, 
Perm., of English descent, and was there married to 
Elizabeth Morrow, a native of the same county. 
The young couple came to "Washington county in 
an early day, accompanied by a brother, George 
Mcllvain. On May 20, 1788, Greer secured 407 
acres of land in Somerset township, which was sur- 
veyed to him February 11, 1780, and afterward di- 
vided with his brother. Greer and Elizabeth Mc- 
11 vain were members of the Presbyterian Church 
at Pigeon ('reek. Their children were Greer, John, 
Guyan, George, William, Andrew, Margaret, Mary, 
Ruth, Catherine, Elizabeth, Either, Ann and 
Eleanor. 

Greer Mcllvain was born October 11,1 793, on 
the home farm in Somerset township, and on No- 
vember 20, 1X17, was united in marriage with Jane 
Campbell, who bore him the following children: 
Eliza ( widow of John Kerr, living in Butler county, 
Penn.); Martha (unmarried); Margaret (widow of 
Robert Clark, of McLean county, 111.); Greer and 
Jane (twins) (the latter being the widow of John 
Greenlee, of McLean county, 111.); Robert C, and 
Mary (deceased). Mr. Mcllvain followed farm- 
ing, took an active interest in all progressive enter 
prises, and was elected to several township offices 
lay the Republican voters of his district. He died 
June 6, 1889, his wife on September 18,1871. 
Both were active members of the Pigeon Creek 
Presbyterian Church, in which Mr. Mel vain was an 
elder from 1849 until his death. 

Robert C. Mcllvain, son of Greer and Jane Mc- 
llvain, remained on the home farm during his boy- 
hood, and after attending the common schools 
spent two terms at an academy in Monongahela 
City, Perm. On December 5, 18(51, he married 
Sarah L. Sloan, who was born January 14, 1833, a 
daughter of James and Sarah Sloan, natives of this 
county. Rev. James Sloan was born September 16, 
1X07, in this county, and was married to Sarah 
Lindsey, who bore him one child: Sarah L. (Mrs. 
Mcllvain); James G., a physician of Monongahela 
City, and Martin A. (deceased), were children by 
his second wife, Margaret Gordon. Mr. Sloan was 
a Presbyterian minister, and preached about nine- 
teen years at the Pigeon Creek Presbyterian 
Church, 390 members being added to the original 



number during his ministry. He organized the 
first Presbyterian Church erected at Frankfort 
Springs, Beaver county, Penn., where he preached 
eight years. He was trustee of Jefferson College, 
Washington county, twenty years. Mr. Sloan died 
March 11, 1871, his wife having crossed the dark 
river in 1833. 

To Robert C. and Sarah L. Mcllvain six children 
have been born as follows: Ella F. (wife of Rev. J. 
C. Mechlin, a missionary in Persia); William L. (a 
farmer of Somerset township, this county); Margaret 
I. (deceased); James G. (deceased); Gertrude E. 
and Elmer S. (residing on the home place). Mr. 
and Mrs. Mcllvain reside on the well-cultivated 
farm consisting of 312 acres, which was his birth- 
place. They have been members of the Pigeon 
Creek Presbyterian Church for some time; he has 
served as a member of the Session and treasurer for 
fourteen years, still filling both offices. He votes 
with the Republican party, and is interested in all 
public issues of the day. 



JOHN" L. SHANNON is a son of Charles D. 
Shannon, who was born June 4, 1802, on a 
farm in Beaver county, Perm., and there in- 
ducted into the mysteries of agricultural pur- 
suits, which he continued to follow all his life. 
When a young man he was married to Jeanette 
( !rawford, who was born May 7, 1810, and they 
were the parents of seven children, namely: Re- 
becca J., married to George Mancha ; G. W., 
married to a Miss Mitchell ; S. C, now residing in 
Kansas ; Mary L., wife of Enoch Colvin ; Irene 
S., wife of Henry M. Crab, residing at Lick No. 4; 
V. D., married to Rebecca A. Wilson, and John 
L. The father died in 18X5, and at that time was 
filling the office of justice of the peace; he had 
previously served as county commissioner and in 
other positions. 

John L. Shannon was born in 1850 in Fallow- 
field township, Washington Co., Penn., and at- 
tended the common schools. On September 15, 
1880, he married Alice V., daughter of Matthew 
McKerahan, of Allegheny county, Penn. She has 
borne him the following children: Wilbur V., 
William A., Jessie Mable, Arthur Scott, Alice 
Lenora and Nora, all living at home. Mr. and 
Mrs. Shannon reside on a farm which his father 
owned, and where he is now conducting a fruit and 
dairy business. The place is located one mile and 
a half from Charleroi and four miles from Monon- 
gahela. In religion he is a member of the Chris- 
tian Church, with which his wife is also identified. 
His widowed mother is living with him on the 
home farm. Mr. Shannon is now serving his town- 
ship as school director. 




4 Otf^'01^^ 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1151 



¥f~\ OBERT FINLEY PATTERSON. Among 
]LJy the old, prominent families of Washington 
\f\. county, the Patterson family ranks high. 
II ^ Robert Patterson, the grandfather of 
V Robert Finley, was a native of York county, 

Penn., and moved to Washington county about 
17 l J'2, settling in East Finley township. A son, 
Robert, also a native of York county, Perm., born 
February 4, 1785, came to Washington county 
with his father, where he married, in 1806, Nancy 
Tiltou, a native of East Finley township, born 
January 1, 1790. They reared a family of ten 
children, of whom Robert Finley is the youngest. 
William, born January 24, 1808, married Eliza 
beth Cooper, and resided in Athens county, Ohio, 
where he died; John, born November, 1810, mar 
ried Octava Farlan, of Athens county, Ohio, where 
he died; Catharine, born February L9, 1812, mar 
ried Royal Bingham,of Athens county, Ohio, where 
shedied; Rhoda, born February 7, IM I. married 
R. S. Andrews, of Morris township, where she 
died, March 15, 1S40; Eunice, born March 11, 
1816, married Daniel Day, of Morris township 
(she died January (5, 185<t); Asenutli, born March 
4, 1818, married Zenas Axtal, of Morris township, 
Greene couuty, Penn. , where she now resides: 
Lettice, born September 29, 1820, married L. 
Bane, of Amwell township, where she died July 
13, 1843; Ann, born December 23, 1824, married 
Stephen Parcel, of Morris township, and died May 
IS, 1854; Josiah, born July 24, 1827, married 
Emma Jane Browne, of Westmoreland county, 
Penn., and now resides in Franklin township, 
Washington county, and Robert. The father died 
June 16, 1803, and the mother January 27. 
1865. 

Robert Finley Patterson was born March 2, 
L830, and November 15, 1852, married Lydia ( Siem- 
ens, a daughter of William Clemens, of Morris 
township. Mrs. Patterson was born February 17, 
1831, her parents being natives of Virginia. To 
this uuion the following children were born: 
Josiah M. was born November 27, 1853. He mar- 
ried Annie Craft, daughter of David Craft, Sr., of 
said township. He is now engaged in the practice 
of law at Washington, Penn. Clara Am:, born 
May 3, 185(5, wife of John Reed, a real estate 
agent of Claysville, Penn. ; John Bryant, born 
December f>, 1858, who manages his father's farm; 
and Cora Asenath, born March 16, 1872, at home. 
Mr. Patterson has succeeded well as a farmer, 
and is known as one of the successful business 
men of Morris township. A portion of the farm 
now owned by him belonged formerly to his father, 
and consequently has been in the Patterson name 
for more than three-quarters of a century. Both 
he and his wife are members of Pleasant Grove 
Baptist Church. 



THE CAMERON FAMILY are among the 
oldest and most prominent residents of 
South Strabane township. John Cameron 
was born in Scotland, and in early youth 
removed to County Armagh, Ireland, where 
he was united in marriage with Esther Twinem, a 
native of Ireland, and soon after his marriage 
emigrated to America, making his home in Somer- 
set township, Washington Co., Penn. To the 
union of Mr. and Mrs. Cameron were born the fol 
lowing children: John, James C, Esther, Mar 
garet and William. Mr. Cameron was a prominent 
citizen, and in politics voted with the Democratic 
party. In religion he was a member of the Pres- 
byterian Church. 

William, son of John and Esther Cameron, was 
born in the year 1808, "ii the home farm in Somer- 
set township, this county, and there received his 
early education. On September 28, 1837, he was 
married to Martha, daughter of George Mitchell, 
residing in South Strabane township, Washington 
county. Mr. Mitchell was a native of Ireland, and 
in early manhood came to America, settling in 
Washington county, Penn., where he was married 
to a Miss Alexander. They reared the following 
children: Martha (Mrs. William Cameron), born 
August II. 1804; Man (Mrs. John McMillan), born 
November 10, 1810; Eleanor, born in the year 
1812, died February 29, 1832; Thomas, born 
August 13, L815, and Catherine (Mrs. Joseph 
Horner), born August 20, IS 17. Mr. Mitchell was 
a Democrat, and in religion a member of the First 
Presbyterian Church at Washington. He died at 
the residence of Mr. William Cameron, May 8, 
L847. 

After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Cameron 
settled on the place which is now occupied by their 
sons, and to the original tract of twenty-one acres 
they added over 200 acres, formerly owned by 
George Mitchell. This farm was uncultivated, 
and he made his own improvements upon it. The 
children of this couple were as follows: John, 
Ellen (Mrs. John G. Paxton), Margaret, Mary J., 
George M. and Martha A. (Mrs. J. C. Pease). 
Mr. Cameron was an enterprising man and took an 
active interest in the progress of the Democratic 
party; he was also interested in educational mat- 
ters, having frequently served as a school director 
in the township. In religion he was a member of 
the Presbyterian Church at Washington. He 
passed away October 15, 1873, having been pre- 
ceded by his wile August 16, I860. 

John Cameron, son of William and Martha 
(Mitchell) Cameron, was born August 12, 1838, 
on the home farm in South Strabane township, 
Washington county, and received a common school 
education. In early life he commenced farming, 
and has since followed that vocation. He is actively 






1152 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



interested in all questions pertaining to the wel- 
fare of the community, and is a firm supporter of 
tbe Democratic party. 

George M. Cameron, second son of William and 
Martha (Mitchell) Cameron, was born April 22, 
1849, and passed his early youth on the home farm, 
receiving his education in the schools of South 
Strabane township. On May 23, 1872, he was 
united in marriage with Mary E., daughter of Col. 
James M. and Maria Potter Byers, residents of 
Washington, Washington county, and the follow- 
ing children were born to their union: William 1!., 
Ada E., Mary E., James M. , George and John A. 
Mr. and Mrs. George M. Cameron have always lived 
on the home place, and are adherents of the Pres- 
byterian Church. In 1880 Mr. Cameron and his 
brother built the handsome residence now occupied 
by them, which is furnished with all modern con- 
veniences. He is a Democrat, and a valued mem- 
ber of that party. He has always been especially 
interested in the schools of the township, having 
been a school director several years. 



JjOHN V. LACOCK, a successful and esteemed 
I citizen of Franklin township, is a son of Ira 
J and grandson of Samuel Lacock. Samuel 
Lacock was born in New Jersey, and in an 
early day came with his wife and family to Wash- 
ington county, Penn., locating in Amwell town- 
ship. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Samuel 
Lacock were as follows: Ira, John R., Eliza (Mrs. 
Chrispin) and Mary (Mrs. Thomas Service). Mr. 
Lacock was an active worker in the Whig party. 

Ira Lacock was born December 13, 1794, in Am- 
well township, Washington Co., Penn., and passed 
his boyhood at home, attending the rate schools 
and afterward teaching school. In early manhood 
he was united in marriage with Anna, daughter of 
Isaac Dane, of Amwell township, Washington 
county, and she bore him children as follows: 
William. Samuel (deceased), Isaac, John V., Eliza 
beth (Mrs. William Mounts) and Ira J. After his 
marriage Mr. Lacock settled in Amwell township, 
this county, where he resided two years, thence 
moving to Morris township, this county, and in 
1857 settling in Washington borough, where he 
died December 13, 1876. In politics he was an 
active supporter of the Jacksonian DemoeniU 

John V. Lacock was born September 5, 1822, in 
Amwell township, Washington Co., Penn., and 
received lii^ education at the subscription schools 
of the county. In December, 1848, he was united 
in marriage with Sarah J., daughter of William 
McClenathan. Mr. McClenathan was born August 
10, 1705, in Ireland, and, emigrating to America 
at an early age, settled in Amwell township, Wash- 
ington Co., Penn. He was married to Mary Coul. 
son, who was boru September Id. 1780, and they 



reared the following children: Isabella (Mrs. John 
Tucker), born July 9, 1801 (died March 5, 1873); 
Samuel, born January 15, 1803 (died February 12, 
1873); William, born January 16, 1805 (died Oc- 
tober 15, 1835); John, born February 10, 1807 
(died November 10, 1878); James, born June 25, 
1809 (died July 9, 1870); Blair, born November 
26, 1811 (died August 18, 1870); Allen, born June 
10, 1814; Thomas, born October 17, INK); Sim 
mons, born April 9, 1819: Mary (Mrs. Nathaniel 
Bane), born October 22, 1822, and Sarah J., born 
June 10, 1825 (died December 14, 1889). Mr. 
McClenathan was a Democrat. 

After his marriage Mr. Lacock settled in Frank 
lin township, afterward moving to Washington 
borough, where he remained three years, then 
came to the home place, and thence to his present 
farm at Point Lookout of fifty acres. Mr. Lacock 
has live children, viz. : George S. (married to Mary 
Slusher; their children are Biddle and Birdie), Dr. 
S. A., William R., Ira L. and Marion (deceased). 
In politics Mr. Lacock is an active Democrat, and 
in religion belongs to the Disciple Church at 
Washington. Over six feet high, he is a fine speci- 
men of the native American. 



THOMAS J. NICHOL, one of the progressive 
and well-to-do agriculturists of South Stra- 
bane township, was born May 3, 1828, in 
Canton (now Franklin) township. His 
grandfather, Thomas Nichol, came to this 
county from County Antrim, Ireland, and took 
out a warrant, February 14, 1785, for a tract of 
land now owned by John Hughes, whose wife is a 
granddaughter of Thomas Nichol. This tract of 
land was surveyed on May 13, 1785, and was 
named in the survey " Crystal," containing 281 
acres, adjoining lands of James Workman, James 
Huston and others. While yet a young man he was 
married to a young lady who had come from Scot- 
land. After marriage they took up their residence 
in Washington borough for some time., and then 
removed to the farm in Canton township, which 
he had entered; there they passed the rest of their 
day r s. They were consistent members of the Pres- 
byterian Church. Two children were born to 
this honored pioneer couple: Samuel and Eliza 
beth (Mrs. Alexander Reynolds). 

Samuel Nichol, the only son of Thomas Nichol, 
was born in Washington borough, this county, 
where his boyhood and youth were passed, and 
where he received his education. He was married 
to Rebecca Bane, daughter of David Bane, of 
Amwell township, ami their children were: James, 
Franklin, Mary, Hannah. Elizabeth (Mrs. John 
Hughes), and Thomas J. After marriage the young 
couple settled in Franklin township, and there re- 
mained until the death of the husband, which OC- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1153 



curred November 19, 1870; his wife departed tbis 
life iu February, 1854. They were members of the 
Disciple Church, iu which he was an elder many 
years; he was a Whig, and took an active part in 
politics. 

Thomas J. Nichol, whose name opens this sketch, 
passed his early life at the place of his nativity, and 
received his education at the schools of the (lis 
trict. While a youug man he took a trip West, 
being absent for some time, and then returned to 
his native township. In January, 1859, he was 
united in marriage with Mary, daughter of ex- 
Judge James C. Chambers, of Amwell township, 
this county. After marriage the young couple 
carried on farming in Amwell township eight 
years, and then moved to Franklin township. 
where they remained one year, thence coming to 
South Strabane township, to their present home. 
The names of the children born to them are: 
Annie, Lizzie, Jennie, John, Lotta, Clark and 
Sadie. Mr. and Mrs. Nichol are members of the 
Disciple Church at Washington, and in politics he 
has always been a stanch Republican. 



h 



( UGUST E. MOLLENAUER, a successful 



farmer and dairyman of North Strabane 
township, is a sou of Ernest Mollenauer, 
born in 1828, whose parents were natives of 
Germany, and came to Allegheny county, 
Penn., in the year 1848. Ernest Mollenauer was 
married to Wilhelmina Huth, born in 1882, mar- 
ried in the year 1850, and settled on the old home- 
stead, where thirteen children were born to them, 
of whom are now living: August E. , Charles. 
Henry P., Louisa (wife of A. T. Linn), Harriet E. 
(wife of Jacob Keitzer), Samuel H.. Frederick H. 
and Mary J. (Mrs. Scott Higbee). Mr. and Mrs. 
Mollenauer are members of the German Lutheran 
Church. 

August E. Mollenauer was born February 20, 
1856, in Allegheny county, Penn., and was reared 
and educated on the home farm. On February 
26, 1880, he was united in marriage with Mary E. 
Froebe (who was born May 1, 1858), daughter of 
Valentine and Elizabeth (Gutbub) Froebe. Mr. 
and Mrs. Froebe were both natives of Germany, 
and came separately without their parents to 
America when young. The two families settled 
in Allegheny county, Penn., and on attaining the 
age of maturity, Valentine Froebe was married to 
Elizabeth Gutbub, who bore him seven children, 
five sons and two daughters, three of whom are 
living: Elizabeth (Mrs. Mollenauer). Philip and 
George W. Mr. Froebe died in the year 1881, 
and his widow is yet living. She is a member of 
the Lutheran Church, as was her deceased hus- 
band. 

August and Mary (Froebe) Mollenauer have had 



born to them six children — three hoys and three 
girls: Anna E., born January 12, 1881; Sarah 
W, born February 23, 1883; Samuel, born Sep- 
tember 28, 1886; Eva M., born December 31, 
isss; Edward C, born December 29, 1890; and 
George (deceased). Mr. Mollenauer owns 147 
acres of land, and he has been engaged in the 
daily business for the past eleven years, having 
twenty cows, and in 1891 shipped 6,650 gallons of 
milk to Pittsburgh. Penn. He and his wife are 
members of the Presbyterian Church. Politically 
Mr. Mollenauer is a Republican. 



4 



NOAH F. GILMORE was born September 
11, 1825, in Pitt township, Allegheny Co., 
Penn. He is a son of William, whose 
father (also named William Gilmore) was a 
native of Ireland. The last mentioned an- 
cestor immigrated to America many years ago, and 
locating on a farm in Susquehanna county, Penn., 
successfully engaged in the farming business. In 
1799 he came to Pittsburgh, Penn., and purchased 
the Oakland farm, which was the scene of the 
famous duel between Bates and Stewart, that con- 
flict having been witnessed by his son, William 
Gilmore, and his brother James. The father re- 
sided on this farm for several years, having trans- 
ported coal to Pittsburgh by horses and mules, and 
finally moved to Columbiana county, Ohio, where 
he died. He was married to a Miss Sample, who 
belonged to a famous pioneer family of Allegheny 
county, and four sons were born to their union: 
John, William, James and Hugh, and two daugh- 
ters. The father was a Federalist in politics. 

William Gilmore, son of the above mentioned 
pioneer, was born about the year 1789, in Susque- 
hanna county, Penn., afterward coming with his 
parents to Allegheny county. His school days 
were necessarily limited, as his aid was needed by 
his parents, who were in moderate circumstances. 
He passed his youth in farm work and mining coal, 
and in 1812 was united in marriage with Susanna 
Fisher, a native of Susquehanna county, Penn., 
and daughter of Henry Fisher, who purchased and 
moved upon a farm in Ohio, where he died. After 
his marriage William Gilmore continued to mine 
coal, and when the old "Oakland" farm was sold 
he purchased the place, finally succeeding in pay- 
ing off the heavy indebtedness. He then moved to 
Ohio, but finally returned to Pittsburgh, Penn., 
where he died in 1852, leaving to his heirs a prop- 
erty of 120,000. At one time he was very wealthy, 
but lost a large amount through unfortunate cir 
cumstances. In politics he was a Whig, and filled 
important offices in Allegheny county for over 
twenty years; in religious faith he was a valued 
member of the Presbyterian Church. His children 
were born as follows: John, William (deceased in 



1154 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Ohio, in 1891), Margaret. Mary Ann, Fisher H., 
Noah F. and Eliza, of whom Noah F. is the only 
one yet living. 

Noah F. Gilmore remained on the home place 
during hi* early manhood, and in 1851 he married 
Harriet McCortney, who was a native of Chartiers 
township, Allegheny Co., Penn. She died in 
March, 1S61, leaving one daughter, Mary A., wife of 
George Gilmore, a merchant of Allegheny county. 
In 1871 Noah F. Gilmore married, for his second 
wife, Sarah, daughter of John Young, a native of 
Pittsburgh, and a steamboat engineer. To this 
union children have been born as follows: Laura 
1!.. Margaret J., S. Blanche, Susanna M., William 
N., ClarenceS., Charles B. and Grant K. Prior to 
1887 Mr. Gilmore was actively engaged in mining 
operations, and sold out at that time; he is now re- 
tired from active business, but conducts the ferry 
which is located on his property. He was origi- 
nally a Whig, and was present when the Repub- 
lican party was organized at the corner of Fourth 
and Wood streets, Pittsburgh, Penn. Although he 
has from that time been a zealous Republican, Mr. 
Gilmore has invariably refused to accept official 
honors. 



I LAS HALEY, probably the oldest, and one 
of the most prominent, merchants in the 
Monongahela Valley, is a son of Sedgwick 
Haley, whose father was born in Ireland, 
and came to America many years ago, when he 
married a Miss Jeans. Of the children born to 
this union the following are named: Daniel, James, 
John, Richard, Euoch and Sedgwick. The father 
of this family was a Democrat in political opin- 
ions, and iu religion a member of the Presbyterian 
Church. He died in Holmes county, Ohio. 

Sedgwick Haley was born and reared in Holmes 
county, Ohio, and attended the schools of the 
neighborhood, passing his youth on the home 
place. A few years after attaining his majority 
he chose as his wife, Rebecca Dailey, a native of 
Washington county, Penn., and the young couple 
resided in Middletown, Ohio, for five years after 
their marriage. They then removed to a farm in 
Tuscarawas county, Ohio, where the remainder of 
their lives was passed. He was identified with the 
Whig party, and served ten years as justice of the 
peace; he was equally zealous in religious matters, 
as an active member of the M. E. Church. He 
died in his forty fourth year, leaving to mourn his 
loss a widow and nine children: Jefferson, Simeon, 
Sarah, John, Silas, Mary and Sedgwick (twins), 
liehncca and Charles. 

Silas Hale} was born July 30, 1832, in Holmes 
county. Ohio. He learned the tailor's t rade. and at 
the age of eighteen years came to Monongahela 
City, where he followed thai vocation until 1ST>|. 



when he opened a clothing establishment which he 
has since conducted. On March 10, 1853, he was 
united in marriage with Mary O, daughter of Levi 
Priggs, a native of Huntingdon county, Penn., 
ami three children have blessed this union, namely : 
Rebecca, wife of W. C. Robison; C. E. and Will 
iam A. Mr. Haley was originally a Whig, and is 
now a Republican; he has served as a member of 
the council. In religious faith he is an earnest, 
active member of the M. E. Church. 



iT^EORGE W. POGUE, prominently identi 
I fied with the representative citizens and 

lill successful farmers of Hanover township, is 
^^1 descended from an old Irish family. His 
grandfather, John Pogue, who was the first 
of the name to locate in Washington county, 
Penn., was born in Ireland, August 11, 1742, and, 
after landing in America, located on a farm iu 
Jefferson township, Washington Co., Penn., near 
Cross Creek. Like all the early settlers, he 
labored under many disadvantages, and had to 
make several trips across the mountains for salt. 
On one occasion, while returning from a trip over 
the mountains with a load of salt, he reached 
Pittsburgh on Saturday night, and would not pro 
ceed with his load on the Sabbath; and while re- 
maining there, he was completely disgusted with the 
desecration of the sacred day. On the following 
morning he was offered several acres of valuable 
land in the heart of the city for his load of salt, 
but decidedly refused the proposition, as he did 
not care for land where the Sabbath was not ob- 
served. He and his wife were leading members 
of the Seceder Church, and lived to old age, on the 
place where they first settled, and were laid to 
rest in a private burying ground on the home 
farm; be died December 21,1837; they were the 
parents of seven children as follows: William, James 
(a school teacher), Samuel, George, Sarah (Mrs. 
John Curry), Robert and David. 

George Pogue was born January 16, 1781), and 
when old enough assisted in clearing up the 
forest of the pioneer farm, attending, in the mean- 
time, the rude subscription schools of the time. 
When a young man he was married to Nancy, 
daughter of David Davis, a native of Washington 
county, on Cross creek. After his marriage Mr. 
Pogue located for a short time on a farm adjoining 
the old place, and in 1836 went to Belmont county, 
Ohio, settling on a place near St. Clairsville. He 
died in 1882. his wife in 1884. .Mr. and Mrs. 
Pogue were active members of the M. E. Church: 
in politics he was a Democrat prior to Jackson's 
administration, when he joined the Whig party, 
finally becoming a Republican. The children of 
this family were as follows: David. Robert. 
George W . Rebecca B., Ruth and John F., of 










^U), Iff JnyjstA^ 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1 1 r.T 



whom only three are living: George W., Ruth 
(Mrs. Hugh Rogers, of Belmont county, Ohio), and 
Rebecca E. (wife of Griffith Lemon, living in Bel 
mont county, Ohio). 

George W. Pogue was horn July 4, 1827, in 
Jefferson township, Washington Co., Penn., and 
when nine years of age came with his parents to 
Belmont county, Ohio. On May 17, 1859, he was 
married to Pauline Robinson, who was born in 
1839, a daughter of Rev. James Robinson, a Meth- 
odist Protestant minister, of Muskingum county, 
Ohio. After his marriage George W. Pogue pur- 
chased 240 acres of excellent land in the Rock 
River country, Whiteside Co. , 111., remaining there 
but a short time, and then made a trade with an 
uncle (his father's brother) who was living in Jef 
ferson township, Washington Co.. Penn. By this 
bargain he received a farm of 100 acres, to which 
he removed in 1860, and when his uncle Robert 
died, George W. Pogue settled up the affairs of 
the estate. In 1863 he came to his present farm 
(situated on the Pittsburgh and Steuben ville pike, 
three miles west of Florence), to which he has 
added an adjoining tract. Mr. Pogue has been 
extensively engaged in the wool and live stock 
business, having been successful in both, and has 
accumulated a good property by his own efforts. 
In politics he was originally a Whig, now ;i !!<■ 
publican, and is well posted on the issues of his 
party; in principle he is a Prohibitionist. In 1851 
he made the good confession in the Methodist 
Protestant Church of Eldersville, Penn., in which 
he has served as steward and in other offices. His 
wife is a member of the same church. They have 
two daughters: Mary (Mrs. C. F. Gardner, of 
Hanover township) and Ella (wife of George S. 
Hanlin, also of Hanover township). At the time 
of the first settlement of the Pogue family. Indians 
were numerous, and many times he and his family 
were compelled to spend their nights iu the grain 
fields. The horses wore bells, and as they could de- 
tect the presence of the Indians first, the settlers 
depended on them for warning. 

Rev. James Robinson, father of Mrs. George W. 
Pogue, was born in Geneva, Fayette Co., Penn., 
June 27, 1812. His father, James Robinson, a 
farmer, was a native of Ireland, and came to 
America when a young man. He was married 
twice, the second time to Sarah Clelland, who bore 
him the following children: James, John and 
Sarah Ann. Mr. Robinson was a Covenanter. He 
died in West Virginia, at Barraeksville. Rev. 
James Robinson was educated atMeadville, Penn., 
and was licensed to preach in 1837 in the M. P. 
Church, this first charge being in the Zanesville 
circuit, Ohio Conference. He came to the Pitts- 
burgh Conference, and spent the remainder of his 
life in same. He was married to Susan, daughter 
of John Johnson, of Muskingum county, Ohio, and 



the children of this marriage were Pauline, John 
W., Virginia (Mrs. Thomas Stevenson), Mary E., 
James F. , William and Marshall, all now deceased 
save Mrs. Pogue. Politically Mr. Robinson was a 
Whig and Republican. 



V Ai *"*• KREPPS, a prosperous blacksmith and 

\//\ wasron maker, was born December 13,1847, 
"L I in Fayette City, Fayette Co., Penn.. the 

I youngest in the family of children born 

to Lewis and Elizabeth (Biland) Krepps. 

Lewis Krepps was born of German ancestry, in 
1809 in Harper's Ferry, Va., where his boyhood 
and early youth were passed. In 1828 he and his 
brother Christian walked from Harpers Ferry to 
Brownsville, Penn., and there he worked at his 
trade, that of blacksmith. He was married in 
Brownsville to Miss Elizabeth Biland, of West 
Pike Run township, Washington county. After- 
ward they settled in Fayette City, Fayette Co., 
Penn. They became the parents of seven chil- 
dren, as follows: John W., living at Grand 
Rapids, Mich.; Jeremiah A., deceased iu I860; 
Lewis Thornton, living in Richland county, 111.; 
Sarah, wife of Eli Croop, of Ravenna, Ohio; 
Enos Clark, who died in 1882, at St. Louis, Mo. ; 
Mary C. and M. S. (twins), the former of whom 
married J. W. Burton, and they are now living in 
North Dakota. The mother of this family died in 
Fayette City, in 1865, and in 1867 the father mar- 
ried a second time. In 1869 he purchased a farm 
in Westmoreland county, Penn., moved thereon, 
and there died in 1881, in his seventy-fourth year. 

M. S. Krepps received his education in the pub- 
lic schools, and learned the trade of blacksmith in 
his native town. In 1870 he moved to Alien town- 
ship, Washington county, where he continued his 
trade, and iu connection carried on agriculture. 
On July 2, 1872, he was married to Josephine, 
daughter of John Fry, the ceremony taking place 
in California, Penn., and the young couple at once 
took up their home on a farm iu Allen township, 
comprising sixty-eight acres of good land. The 
children born to this union were John F.. born 
December 4, 1878; Joe E. , born November 3, 1881; 
Frank G., born December 6, 1883, and died of 
diphtheria July 17, 1892. In politics Mr. Krepps 
is actively interested in the Republican party, and 
he and his wife are members of the Disciple 
Church. 



Kr\ EZIN C. TUCKER, a well-known farmer 
|w^ and progressive citizen of Hanover town- 
r\\ SU 'P' is descended from one of the pioneers 
JJ -^ of the county. 

v Prior to 1770 there came from Maryland 

one John Tucker, who, after the Government sur- 



1 1 58 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



vey, took up 100 acres of what is known as the 
" Grace tract " in Hanover township, having made 
improvements on a tomahawk claim, several years 
in advance of the Government survey. He was a 
large man and as straight as an Indian, a despiser 
of the lazy man and the rascal, and was an honest. 
Quaker. Before coming here his first wife died, 
leaving two sons, Rev. Samuel, who was killed by 
Indians while en route to Kentucky, and John, 
who moved to Ohio. He married his second wife 
shortly before leaving Marvland, and she. with 
the two sons, accompanied him to this county. 
There were two daughters born to this second 
marriage, who became Mrs. Ralston and Mrs. 
Sadler, respectively. Jonathan, the eldest son of 
the second marriage, was born in Fort Vance dur- 
ing an Indian raid in 1771. Thomas, the fourth 
child, moved to Ohio; David was the youngest. John 
Tucker was the founder of Tucker's Church, which 
was built in 1823, and which is yet known by that 
name. He was among the earliest residents of this 
county, from whom the majority of the families of 
this name in Hanover township are descended. 
Many were the trials and struggles endured by 
this old pioneer, of which, did space permit, we 
would gladly give a detailed description. He 
lived to the ripe old age of one hundred years, and 
was buried in the Tucker's Church cemetery, where 
his wife was also interred. 

David Tucker, youngest son of John, was reared 
on the old homestead where his father had first 
located. When a young ma:i he was married to 
Christie Ann Hill, who bore him the following 
children: Ellen. Rezin. Mary Ann. David. Philip 
Rowland, Nancy and Samuel, all of whom lived to 
adult age, some moving to Ohio, Indiana, Illinois 
and Iowa, while a few remained in their native 
county. The father was a Democrat, and in re- 
ligious faith his wife was a Baptist He died in 
1819, and was buried in a private cemetery on the 
home place. His widow was married to John 
Clark, and had two children by her second mar 
riage, viz. : Matthew (who went to Texas) and 
Harriet (deceased in youth). The mother died in 
Ohio, where she lived with her elder sons. 

David Tucker, son of David and Christie Ann 
Tucker, was born in 1812. and received but a com- 
mon-school education, his father dying when he 
was but a boy of seven years. He then went to 
live with his uncle, Nathan Hill, near Eldersville, 
Jefferson township, this county, of whom he learned 
the tanner's trade. In 1820 he left the tanning 
business, and going to Pittsburgh worked for some 
time in an iron mill. When his brother, who had 
been living on the home place, left there for the 
West, he came from Pittsburgh and took charge of 
the farm. Tn 1837 he was married to Sarah S. 
Watt, who was born in 1813. in Hanover town- 
ship, daughter of John Watt. The children born 



to this union were as follows: Rezin O, Angelina 
E. (deceased in youth), Mary Ellen (unmarried, is 
yei living on the hoirte farm), Harriet L. (Mrs. R. 
W. Crisswell of Hanover township), David S. 
(married, of Florence), John W. (deceased) , Sarah 
S. (wife of George S. Graham, M. D., a leading 
physician of Florence) and Lemuel J. (professor 
in a college at Defiance, Ohio). Of these children 
John W. enlisted in Company K, One Hundred 
and Fortieth P. V. I., and was killed near Todds 
Tavern at the battle of the Wilderness. Owing to 
an order previously issued by the commander in 
chief, the body was never secured, and was buried 
in the field. The parents always lived in this 
township. David Tucker was a Democrat until 
the close of Jackson's administration, when he lie 
came a Whig and Republican. He was among the 
leading men. and a liberal contributor to the M. 
E. Church (Tucker's Church). He was twice mar 
ried. his second wife being Rachel B. (Miller) 
Hall, a widow, who died in 1884, followed by her 
husband in October, 1K00. He was a man of pow 
erf ul physique, weighing over 200 pounds. 

Rezin C. Tucker, son of David and Sarah S. 
Tucker, and the subject proper of this sketch, was 
born April 27. 1838, in Hanover township, this 
county. His first education was received in tin 
common schools, afterward attending the Florence 
academy for some time. In youth he gave his 
name to the M. E. Church. After leaving school 
he learned the carpenter's trade, which he com- 
pleted and followed at various places in the county. 
For the past few years he has been living on the 
home place, of which he now has charge, having 
been administrator of his father's estate. In poli- 
tics he is a Republican, taking an interest in the 
success of his party. He has never married. 




\ILLIAM DUNBAR is an esteemed citi 
zen of Robinson township, who is rapidly 
converting the products of the soil into a 
golden harvest, the reward of patient, in 
dustrious toil. His grandparents. James 
and Mary Dunbar, natives of Ireland, emigrated 
to America in an early day, settling in Pennsyl 
vania, and thus becoming identified with the pio 
neer history of that State. Twelve children were 
born to them, of whom but two are now living: 
Mary (widow of Joseph Wallace, living in Oak 
dale, Allegheny Co., Penn.), and William (a farmer 
of Cross Creek township, this county). Mr. Dun- 
bar followed farming and stock raising. He died 
in 1830, and in 1831 his wife was laid beside him. 
Thomas Dunbar was born February 12, 1805, 
in Washington county, and in 1833 was married to 
Mary Scott, who was born in 1817 in the same 

i nly. The following children were born to 

then union: Alexander S., Mary (wife of Dallas 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1 1 59 



Garrison), William (of whom a sketch is given be- 
low), Martha, James, Elizabeth, Susan, ami an 
unnamed infant. Of these children the ones now 
living are Alexander, Mary and William. Thomas 
Dunbar cared little for political life, but was 
actively interested in public improvements and 
church affairs, to which he contributed liberally, 
and with his wife was a devoted member of the 
Raccoon Presbyterian Church. He died in 1891, 
having been preceded by his wife in 1852. 

William Dunbar was born July 9, 1847, and was 
reared on the home farm. On May 19, 1881, he 
married Nancy Annan, born June 17, 1847, in 
Washington county, Penn., daughter of William 
(a carpenter) and Maria (Trimmer) Annan, early 
settlers of this county. They reared four chil- 
dren, viz. : Mary, Nancy (Mrs. Dunbar), and 
James and Emma (both deceased). Mr. and Mrs. 
Annan were members of the Presbyterian Church. 
He died in 1876; his widow (who was born in 
1810) is living with her daughter, Mary, in 
Candor, this county. William and Nancy (Annan) 
Dunbar are active members of the Presbyterian 
Church. He owns a well-cultivated farm of 157 
acres, and raises a considerable amount of stock. 
In politics he is a Democrat. 



GL. KINDER was born February 27, 1842, 
His great-grandfather, George Kinder, re- 
sided on Plum Brush, and followed the Ohio 
and Mississippi rivers as a trader and boat- 
man. For a time he was successful in business, 
but being overtaken by financial trouble, a few 
years later went to New Orleans, and never re- 
turned. His son George was born in East Beth- 
lehem township, this county, and lived in that 
vicinity until after his marriage, when he was ac- 
cidentally killed in a carding-mill, which he 
owned and operated. The maternal grandfather 
of our subject, Christian Booze, was born in Greene 
county, Penn. He had no educational opportuni- 
ties, and followed carpentry and farming, eventu- 
ally becoming a successful business man. 

Valentine Kinder, the father of our subject, was 
born in 1805 in East Bethlehem township. He 
received a limited education in the common schools, 
but was a good penman. When a young man he 
went to Galena, 111., upon a mining expedition, 
thence coming to St. Louis he raised a crop of 
corn, and then returning home taught school for a 
time. He then married Miss Julia Booze, at which 
time his entire worldly property amounted to $35. 
He located just below the present home of his son 
George, and remained there two years. He then 
removed to West Mill. Six years later he bought 
the home of his son, Louis, where he lived a num- 
ber of years, and thence removed to the old Nich- 
olls farm, near Hillsborough. At the time of his 



death, which occurred June 12, 1890, he left $10.- 
000 for distribution, having previously divided 
$50,000 among his children. 

Our subject was born on the old homestead just 
south of Hillsborough; where he lived with his father 
until he moved to the Nicholls farm in 1857, leav- 
ing the old farm in charge of his two sons, Louis 
and Harvy. C. L. Kinder was educated in tin- 
common schools, and though his opportunities were 
limited, he was an eager reader and a very well 
informed man. He remained at home until his 
enlistment, August, 1861, in the "Ringgold Cav 
airy," an independent company. Capt. John Keyes 
commanding. He was in the service three and 
one-half years, and during two months of that 
time was confined in Andersonville and Florence 
Station prisons. He served in no general engage- 
ment, being under Gen. Keller, protecting the B. 
& O. R. R. On June 10, 1863. he was taken 
prisoner at Lester's River Gap, W. Va., and was 
twice slightly wounded while in the service. He 
was mustered out of the army March 17, 1865, and 
on retiring to his home resumed the occupation of 
farming, working his father's place on shares. In 
1868 he and his brother Louis purchased the farm 
of over one hundred acres where Samuel Kinder 
now lives. Here he remained for about five years, 
and in thespringof 1873, together with his brother 
Valentine, he purchased the farm of 207 acres 
upon which he passed the rest of his life. Mrs. 
Kinder has since added ten acres to this tract. 
Valentine Kinder remained upon the farm one 
year; then purchased a portable sawmill, and soon 
after this was killed by falling upon the saw. He 
left a wife and one child. Our subject then bought 
out the interests of his brother's heirs in the farm, 
and became very successful in business, having 
made the greater share of his property himself. 
There is probably no finer place in the township 
than this farm. On Thursday, January 17. 1867. Mr. 
Kinder married Sarah Worrell, daughter of Elias and 
Aves Worrell of Allen township. Mrs. Kinder had 
the following half-brothers: Allen Worrell, deceased 
in July, 1867; William Worrell, deceased in June, 
1873; John Worrell, deceased in July, 1873. Elias 
Worrell, the father, died in May," 1873. Mrs. 
Kinder had one full brother, Elias Irvin Worrell, 
and one sister, Elizabeth, wife of Eli Williams. Mr. 
and Mrs. Kinder had six children: Aves Ann, 
born October 7, 1867; Elias I., born Mav 22, 1868, 
died May 25, 1868; John Irwin, born July 2, 1871; 
Elizabeth Nora, born March 18. 1873, was married 
October 18, 1892. to Ira' Friend; Julia Josephine, 
born April 7. 1877, and Sarah Gertrude, born 
August 22, 1881. C. L. Kinder died March 17, 
1892. He had always been a Republican, and took 
an active interest in the affairs of his party. He 
was, as is his family, an active and devout mem 
ber of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 



11 fill 



WASH INGTON CO I W T V. 



THOMAS (i. WALLACE, one of the best 
and most systematic farmers of West Finley 
township, iH a son of Charles, whose 
father, Robert Wallace, was born and mar- 
ried in County Down, Ireland. His wife 
was formerly Esther Walkingshaw, daughter of 
John Walkingshaw. a miller of County Down. 
After his marriage, Mr. Wallace sailed (in 1804) 
with their oldest son from Ireland to America, and 
while on the ocean, the second son, Robert, was 
born. The family first settled in Westmoreland 
county, Penn., and resided there ten or twelve 
years, finally making a permanent home in West- 
Finley township, Washington county. Their other 
children were John, Samuel, Mary Ann. Martha 
and Jane. Of this family Robert is now the only 
living member. The mother died June 14, 1848, 
and the father lingered until 1850, when he, too. 
passed away. 

Charles Wallace, the eldest son of the above 
family, was born January 2, 1802, in Countj 
Down, Ireland, and passed his youth in America, 
on the farm of his father. He learned the trade 
of a weaver, and followed that vocation until he 
settled on the farm now occupied by his son, 
Thomas G. He was united in marriage with Ann 
Griffith, daughter of Thomas Griffith, of Donegal 
township, Washington county, who was a native 
of Wales. To this union were born children as 
follows, the names and dates of birth being given: 
Margaret, October 15, 1826: Robert, January 4, 
1828; Thomas G.. March T.I. 1829; Samuel. Sep- 
tember 10, 1830; John, November 8; 1832; Charles, 
July 14, 1833; Esther, January 8, 1830; William, 
July 10, 1837; Marv J.. February 7, 1830, and 
Arthur. May 15, 1842. Of these children, Esther, 
Samuel, John and Mary J. are deceased. Mr. 
Wallace was a charter member of the Hanev 
town Presbyterian Church. In politics he was 
formerly a Whig, and on the formation of the 
party became a Republican. On May 19, 1871, he 
was laid to rest, and on February 6. 1879, was fol- 
lowed by his wife. 

Thomas G. Wallace was born in Donegal town- 
ship, Washington Co., Penn., and came with his 
father to West Finley township, where he as- 
sisted in the general duties of the home farm until 
he was twenty-two years of age, when he began 
working by the month for the neighboring farmers, 
in which he continued three years. On March 14, 
1 sr>4, he was married to Elizabeth Haggerty, of 
Independence township, Washington county, who 
bore him one daughter, Anna Mary, who died 
February 11. 1855, the mother having died Febru- 
ary 5. On February 9, 1800. Mr. Wallace was 
married to Harriet L., daughter of Alexander Pat 
terson, whose ancestors were of Irish birth, and 
to their union were born the following children: 
Beverage P., born January 31, 1861; Anna M. , 



bom May I. 1802; William A., born June is. 
1S03: Charles EL, born September 8, 1804; Lizzie 
J., born October 23. 1865; James P., born Janu- 
ary 23. 1807; Lelia A., born March 25, 1808; 
Samuel M.. born August 25, 1809; Ida B., born 
November 3, 1870; Thomas H. , born January 20, 
1872; Nancy M., bom May 13, 1873; Edward L., 
born February 17, 1875; John A., born November 
20, 1870, and Laura E., born May 11, 1881. Of 
the above family. Samuel, James and Leliaarede 
ceased. When Mr. Wallace began married life he 
was too poor to purchase a home, and so continued 
to icut until he had paid $7,000 for the use of 
farms. He then concluded that renting was as ex- 
pensive as purchasing property, and so bought the 
old home farm, which by the practice of economy 
and good management he has nearly paid for. He 
is one of the few farmers who keep a strict account 
of the sales and expenditures of the family. Dur- 
ing the last year Mr. Wallace has sold about 
$1,500 worth of stock and produce from his farm. 
He is a member of the Presbyterian Church of 
Haneytown, W. Va. . to which he gives a liberal 
support. In politics he is a leading Republican. 



L 



EWIS LINN, a representative agriculturist 
of Peters township, was born December 17, 
1827, in Union township, Washington Co., 
Penn., and is a son of Aaron Linn. 
Aaron Linn was born in 1790, in New Bruns 
wick, N. J., and in early manhood was married to 
Eliza Henkison, a native of the same State. 
They afterward located in Union township. Wash- 
ington Co., Penn., where he worked by the day. 
Their children were born as follows: David, Will 
iam, L"wis, Hannah, Marv (1), Zephanalia, James. 
Mary (2). Elizabeth and Ann C. Of this family 
David, William. Mary, Zephanalia and James are 
deceased. The latter enlisted in Company G, One 
Hundred and Fortieth P. V. I., and was killed at 
the battle of Gettysburg. 

Lewis Linn, the subject proper of this sketch, 
passed his youth on the home place. On April 13, 
IMS. he was married to Margaret .1., daughter of 
James Sheets, a shoemaker of Peters township. 
The young couple then lived as tenants in Peters 
township, also near Canonsburg, and in 1801 
bought the home farm in Peters township, contain 
ing ISO acres of fine land, upon which he has 
made many improvements. He owns twenty five 
cows, and has a milk route in Pittsburgh, which is 
managed by his son, William, who also buys milk 
of the neighboring farmers. Mr. Linn votes the 
Democratic ticket, and has served nine years as 
road supervisor, but prefers to devote his principal 
time to personal matters. He assisted in the or- 
ganization of the Presbyterian Church at Finley. 
villi-, of which he is an elder and stanch supporter. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1163 



Nine children have been born to this union, namely : 
James, Aaron, Nancy, Belle, William, John A. 
(deceased), one deceased in infancy, Robert and 
Margaret. Of these four are married, viz. : James, 
Aaron, Nancy and Belle. Mr. Linn has had fif 
teen grandchildren, three of whom are deceased. 



dfAMES BELL. Of the many European 
countries that have given to America their 
I best and bravest citizens, the fair Emerald 
Isle has ever been found in the foremost 
rank. Persecuted and oppressed by power- 
ful nations, many of her high spirited sons and 
daughters have sought a land of freedom, and 
finding the object of their quest in America, have 
bled and died to maintain the honor of their 
adopted country. 

James Bell was born February 9, 1844, near 
Bangor, County Down, Ireland, and grew to man- 
hood on his father's farm. He soon evinced an 
inclination for mechanical work, and by indulging 
this natural taste, finally became quite a success- 
ful carpenter. On March 17. 1873, he was united 
in the bonds of matrimony with Jane Major, a 
native of the same county. She was born Decem- 
ber 3, 1855, and was a daughter of David Major, 
a merchant of Bangor. County Down, Ireland. 

Mr. and Mrs. Bell decided to begin their mar- 
ried life in the New World, and in June, 1873, 
sailed from Larne, County Antrim, on the State- 
line ship "Pennsylvania." After a voyage of 
thirteen days they landed at New York, thence 
proceeded to Steubenville, Ohio, where they re- 
mained a short time, then settled at Midway, Penn. 
Mr. Bell there found employment in outside work 
at the coal mines, but through working with un- 
tiring industry, his health began to fail from the 
unaccustomed and severe manual labor. In 1880 
he opened a small grocery, being obliged to begin 
on a modest scale, as his finances were very 
limited. But undaunted by the many obstacles 
before him, with the spirit of energy and phick 
characteristic of the sons of Erin. James Bell be- 
gan at the foot of the commercial ladder. Slowly, 
yet steadily, he began to rise; round by round he 
ascended, watching and working, with his faithful 
wife by his side to encourage and aid in the stub- 
born conflict; at last success dawned and the 
darkest hours were over. To-day James Bell con- 
ducts the most extensive individual mercantile 
business at Midway. He has been compelled to 
enlarge his business facilities, and is enjoying the 
well-earned reward of those weary, toilsome years. 
The following children have been born to Mr. and 
Mrs. James Bell; Minnie. David, William M.. Bessie 
M. N.. James A., Hugh W.. John (deceased in in- 
fancy). Mattie S. and John N. In politics Mr. 
Bell was formerly a Republican, and in 1884 joined 




the Prohibition party, with which he has since 
been connected. He and his wife are earnest 
members of the U. P. Church. 



ESLEY L. OWINGS, a well-to-do farmer 

and substantial citizen of Hanover town 
ship, is of Welsh extraction. His grand- 
father, Asa Owings, was burn in Wales, 
and on his arrival in America settled 
near Harmon's Creek, where his life was passed in 
"tilling the virgin soil." Many were the hard- 
ships and trials with which this family contended 
before the victory was won beyond a question. 
Twelve children were born to Asa Owings, among 
whom, and second in the order of birth, was one 
named Ephraim. 

Ephraim Owings was born January 6, 1801, in 
Brooke county. W. Va., in the pioneer cabin on 
Harmon's creek, this county. His early life was 
passed on the frontier. On January 12, 1826, he 
was married to Blanche Swearingen, who was 
born August 20, 1807, in Brooke county, W. Va., 
where her father, John Swearingen, after coining 
from Maryland, settled. The following children 
were born to Ephraim and Blanche Owings: Vir- 
linder, the widow of Henry Fullerton; Michael, 
married to James Mahan, and living in De Kalb 
county. Mo. ; John S.. a farmer of Hancock county, 
W. Va. ; Asa, an agriculturist of Webster county, 
Mo.; Frances, deceased wife of John Snedeter; 
Helen, married to John N. Griffith, of Hanover 
township; Catherine, widow of Daniel Sturgeon, 
of Beaver Falls, Penn.; William E., a farmer of 
De Kalb county, Mo.; Wesley L., of whom further 
mention is made; George E., deceased in infancy; 
Minerva and Mary (twins), deceased in infancy. 
Mr. and Mrs. Owings lived in Hancock and Brooke 
counties, W. Va., where he followed the river in 
connection with farming until 1864, when he 
purchased the Henry Bow farm, in Hanover town 
ship, this county, where his last years were Hpent. 
At length, worn out with the toil of many indus 
trious years, he passed away, July 13, 1884, fol- 
lowed by his wife July 14, 1891, and they are 
buried in the Florence cemetery. Mrs. Owings 
was a member of the Baptist Church at Holliday's 
Cove, W. Va. , in which her husband was an 
elder and leading member for many years. He 
was a zealous Democrat, a successful farmer and 
an excellent citizen. 

Wesley L. Owings was born July 18, 1846, in 
Brooke county, W. Va. On the old place, where 
the father had passed his boyhood, the son grew 
to maturity. When a young man he came, with 
his parents, to Washington county, Penn. On 
February 17, 1870, he married Margaret E. Davis, 
who was born May 20, 1848, a daughter of Will- 
iam and Margaret (Bruce) Davis, of Hanover 



1164 



WASliI.xaTON COUNTY. 



township. The children of Wesley and Margaret 
Owings are as follows: George D., Liunie A.. 
Margaret E., William E., Ralph G. and Elva C, 
all of whom are living at home. Mr. and Mis. 
Owings remain on the old place where the father 
first settled. Like his ancestors for generations, 
Wesley Owings devotes his attention to the culti- 
vation of his farm and stock raising, in which 
business he has prospered. He is an enthusiastic 
supporter of the doctrines embraced in the Demo- 
cratic party. The family share the respect and 
esteem of the entire community, and Mrs. Owings 
is a member of the U. P. Church at Frankfort 
Springs. 



J I L. BRADY was born in Washington, Wash- 
ington Co., Penn., a descendant of Freeman 
| Brady, who came to Washington, Penn.. in 
about 1812, where he worked at his trade, thai 
of mason. He married a Miss Means, of South 
Strabane township, this county, whose family reside 
on the place now known as the ' ' Taylor farm,' ' and 
their children were as follows: Sophia, Seaman (de- 
ceased), Andrew (deceased), John and Freeman, 
Samuel, James, David (deceased), Benjamin, and 
Martha (deceased). Mr. Brady took a very active 
part in local affairs, and at one time was post- 
master at Washington. He was contractor for 
many of the abutments to the bridges, along the 
National pike, and built the courthouse and old 
jail. Although lie had but a limited education, 
he became one of the most prominent men of the 
day. Politically, he was one of the old wheel 
horses of the Democratic party in Washington 
county. He and his wife were members of the 
Presbyterian Church. He died in 1S72, when 
over seventy years of age, having been preceded to 
the grave by his wife. 

Benjamin Brady, son of Freeman, was born in 
Washington borough in 1836, and there passed 
his entire life. In 1859 he was married to Rebecca 
Jordan, of Washington, and three children were 
born to them: W. C, born March 4. 1860; J. L. 
(a sketch of whom follows), born September 28, 
L862; and Katie H. born August 14, 1804 (mar- 
ried to John W. Hallam). Mr. Brady was a 
butcher and conducted a meat market, a business 
he followed all his life. He was generous to a 
fault, and ever ready to give a helping hand to the 

i ly. He died in October, 1864, and his widow 

is still living in the borough of Washington. 

J. L. Brady lived in Washington until he was 
five years of age, when he came to Amwell town- 
ship, and made his home with his granduncle and 
grandaunt, Isaac and Isabella Dager, the former of 
whom died when J. L. was a lad of fifteen sum 
mors, since which time he has successfully man 
aged the farm, having previously received his edu 



cation in the common schools. On October 16, 
1889, ho was uuited in marriage with Ella Hilde 
brand, (laughter of Andrew and Mary Hildebrand, 
of West Bethlehem township, whose other children 
are Marion, Eli, Alviu, Frank, Rachel and Zoe. 
Mr. and Mrs. J. L. Brady have one child, Glenn, born 
May 28, 1891. Our subject is a Democrat, and is 
active in the politics of his township, always voting 
for the best man in local politics, regardless of 
party distinctions. 

Isaac Dager, granduncle of J. L. Brady, was 
born March 29. 1808, on the farm now occupied 
by our subject, and received a good rate school ed- 
ucation. He was married to Isabella Means, and 
there was born to them bne daughter, Catherine 
Ann, who died at the age of nine years. Mr. 
Dager died December 4, 1S70, on the farm where 
his life was passed, and his widow followed him to 
the grave September 27, 1888. 



It f/ENRY MORRISON, son of Henry, and 
i l—j grandson of Henry Morrison, was born An 

gust 13, 1827, in Nottingham township, 
I) - this county. The grandfather was a lieu 

tenant in the Revolutionary war. In 1773 
he came to this county and bought 466 acres of 
laud on Mingo creek, where he died at the age of ' 
eighty-two years, leaving three sons: John, James 
and Henry. Henry Morrison was born October 2, 
1799, in Nottingham township, and at an early 
day was married to Anna Stewart, who was born 
here October 14. 1794. Five children blessed this 
marriage, namelv: William, born December 18, 
1820, died February 26, 1843; Patience (Mrs. 
Hamilton), born April 30, 1823; Henry, of whom a 
sketch follows; John, born May 2:!. 1830, died 
January 6, 1836, and James, born May 14, is:!:! 
The father owned 152 acres of land and passed 
his life iu agricultural pursuits, serving the town 
ship iu various capacities. He died October 7. 
1884, having been preceded by the mother De- 
cember 25, 1877. 

Henry Morrison, whose name opens this sketch, 
grew to manhood on the home place in Notting- 
ham township, and on March 30. ISIS, married 
Margaret, daughter of Charles Hamilton, of Peters 
township. She was born July 16, 1829. To this 
union the following children have been born: 
Charles H. . born March 12, 1849; Margaret A., 
born October 24. 1852; Sarah B. , born November 

I. 1855, died August 16, 1859; Patience L.. born 
July 21, 1858, .lied August 17, 1859; Henrv W . 
born June 12. 1860, died October 1. 1865; James 
S., born October 7. 1862; Willett A., born April 

II. 1865; Harry M., born July 24. 1807. and How- 
ard F., born July 11, 1871. 

Mr. Morrison is a prosperous farmer, now own- 
ing seventy-eight and one half acres of well-culti 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1165 



vated land, and at one time gave his entire atten 
tion to stock raising. He has been supervisor, 
also serving as school director for several years. 
In political affairs he affiliates with the Democratic 
party. 



EA. WILLIAMS is of French descent, his 
grandparents, James and Sarah (Kherson) 
Richards, having been 1 ion i in France. 
When but sixteen years of age James Rich- 
ards served as a fifer in the French revolution. 
being a brave soldier; he received a wound in the 
leg which he carried through life. Emigrating to 
America, he became a farmer and active politician. 
They were the parents of three children, viz. : 
Hester, Hannah and Lucy. The parents died in 
East Pike Run township, Washington Co. . Penn. 

Titus Williams, son of Elder Williams (known 
as a great minister of his day), was born in 1808. 
on the home place in East Pike Run township, and 
for several years was a boat, pilot on the Monon- 
gahela river. He was married to Lucy Richards, 
wIki was born in 1809, and she bore him three 
children, namely: Hester A. (deceased), Eli A. 
and James E. . a Methodist minister of Pittsburgh. 
Penn. The father was a representative citizen of 
the community, and voted with the Whig party. 
He died in 1842, at the age of thirty-four years. 
and his widow, who is now a hale and hearty 
woman of eighty-two years, is yet living with her 
son. She is a member of the M. E. Church, with 
which her husband was also identified. 

Eli A. Williams, son of Titus and Lucy Will- 
iams, was born February 27, 1842, in Fayette 
county, Penn., and there learned the blacksmith's 
trade. He married Elizabeth Worrell. August, 26, 
1874, who was born in 1854, in Washington county. 
Penn. She is the daughter of Elias and Aves 
(Smith) Worrell, both of whom were natives of 
Pennsylvania. The father was an agriculturist, 
and in politics a Republican. He died in 1872. 
Both parents were members of the M. E. Church ; 
their children were Sarah, widow of C. L. Kinder; 
Elizabeth, wife of Eli A. Williams, and E. I. Wor- 
rell, of Allen township, living on and owning the 
old homestead. Eli A. and Elizabeth (Worrell) 
Williams are the parents ef three children, namely: 
John A., born in 1875; Elverson I., horn in 1878, 
and Arthur L.. born in 1887. Mr. Williams is a 
manufacturer of coal picks and tools for several 
different companies, being a very expert workman, 
and also carrying on his farm of 106 acres. He 
is a prominent citizen, always interested in public 
enterprises, and votes with the Republican party, 
having filled various local offices. He is also a 
member of the Masonic Fraternity, and in religious 
faith he and his wife are members of the M. E. 
Church, of which he is trustee. 



I'OHN B. ANDREW was born in Morris town 
| ship, Washington Co., Penn., October 28, 
fl; 1852. He is a son of Robert S. and Sarah 
(Cooper) Andrew, and grandson of James 
Andrew, who was born and married in the 
State of New Jersey, removing to Washington 
county, Penn., early in the present century. The 
grandfather located near Mt. Zion church. Morris 
township, aud there reared the following family, 
all of whom are now deceased: Ruth, Mary, Mar- 
garet, James. John. William, Peter and Robert S. 
Peter was born in Morris township, August 25, 
1799, died April 23, 1883. Robert S. was born in 
Morris township, November 6, 1812. Mr. Andrew 
died in 1826. 

Robert S. Andrew received his early education 
at the subscription schools, hut on the death of his 
father was obliged to assume the care of the farm, 
together with his brothers. In 1836 he -married 
Rhoda Patterson, daughter of Thomas Patterson, 
of Morris township. She bore him two children 
(twins), who died in infancy. Mrs. Andrew died 
in 1837, and in 1842 Mr. Andrew was united in 
marriage with Sarah Cooper, daughter of Zebulon 
Cooper, of Butler county, Penn., to which union 
were horn the following children: Sarah Ann and 
Mary Elizabeth (twins), born February 2. 1813 
(Mary Elizabeth, deceased in infancy, and Sarah 
Ann is the wife of George W. Craft, of Morris 
township); James Herschel, born January 21. 1845, 
yet living (unmarried) with his brother. John B. 
Andrew; Zebulon C, born January 2, 1847. mar- 
ried to Jennie Booth (of Greene county, Penn.) 
and residing in Washington. Penn.; Margaret E., 
born February 15, 1850, widow of Spencer Clut- 
ter, and living in Greene county, Penn., and John 
B.. subject of this memoir. The mother of these 
children died November 3, 1852, and Mr. Andrew, 
in 1858, wedded Hannah (Hathaway) Emerson. 
She was born in 1821. Their children were: 
Robert S., born September 10, 1859. living in 
Pittsburgh, Penn.; Carrie, born September 27, 
1862, wife of J. F. Post, and residing in Morris 
township, and William H., born October 10, 1865, 
livinsr in Washington. Mrs. Andrew died March 
4. 1877. and in 1884 he married Sarah Anderson, 
of Washington, Penn. Mr. Andrew passed his 
entire life upon the old home farm, and always 
followed agriculture. He was a Democrat, and in 
religion was a member of the Cumberland Presby- 
terian Church at Concord, hut attended the M. E. 
Church at Mt. Zion. Robert S. Andrew died 
June 9. 1891. 

John B. Andrew remained at home and assisted 
his father in the farm duties until he was twenty 
six years of age. On November 1, 1878, he mar 
ried Flora Samantha Cooper (born December 25, 
1855), daughter of Nathaniel Cooper, of Mercer 
county, Penn., and their children are Oliver Woods. 



1166 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



born September 5, 1879; John Elmer, born Sep- 
tember 27, 1883, and Harry Clark, born October 
1 7, 1 887. Mr. Andrew raises some stock, and is 
a successful farmer. Politically, he is a Demo- 
crat but not a politician, and in religion he and his 
wife are members of the M. E. Church at Mt. Zion. 




\\ILLIAM W. HUNTER. Lord Bacon 
fj aptly expressed the universal belief when 
he penned the lines, "Though kings, 
princes and great personages be few, yet 
there are many excellent men who deserve better 
than vague reports and barren elegies." History 
is biography of men whose deeds have left an 
impress on the life of a nation or a people. If 
such be an evident fact, the lives of those men who 
have risked their all for the dear old flag are 
especially interesting to every true patriot and 
most worthy of permanent record, that future 
generations may be benefited by their perusal. 

The Hunter family were originally natives of 
Ireland, where the grandparents of the present 

g< ration, John and Jane (Work) Hunter, were 

born and reared. They were married in the old 
country, where John had learned the weaver's trade. 
In 1800 they sailed to America, first locating on a 
farm adjoining Buffalo village, this county. He 
packed salt over the mountains, then drove a team, 
and afterward took a contract to build a mile of 
the old National pike. He then bought a farm in 
Buffalo township, successfully following agricult- 
ural pursuits until becoming advanced in years, 
when he resumed his trade. Mr. and Mrs. Hunter 
reared the following children: Robert (removed 
to Belmont county, Ohio), David (moved to Iowa). 
Alexander (deceased in Ohio), Joshua (deceased of 
cholera in Wheeling. W. Va. ), James (settled in 
Iowa), Margaret (deceased in Washington county. 
Penn.), William (of whom a sketch follows). Samuel 
(moved West) and one deceased in youth. The 
parents moved to Belmont county. Ohio, and 
passed their declining years with their son Robert. 
They were members of the North Buffalo United 
Presbyterian Church under the ministry of Rev. 
David French. The mother of Mr. Hunter was 
born in Ireland and lived to be one hundred and 
nine years of acre. 

William Hunter was born in Buffalo township, 
this county, soon after his parents arrived in 
America, receiving a meager education in the 
country schools. When but thirteen years of age 
he drove a four horse team — also assisting with 
various duties of the farm. In 1830 he was mar- 
ried to Mrs. Maria J. (Maher) Chambers, widow of 
Joseph G. Chambers, and daughter of John 
Maher, Sr. , a prominent merchant, and sister of 
John Maher, Jr., a leading attorney. Purchasing 
the place now occupied by his namesake, he began 



to follow farming. Mr. Hunter was a quiet, un- 
demonstrative man, and was a radical Democrat, 
though never taking a very active part in polities. 
He and his wife were members of the Upper 
Buffalo Presbyterian Church. Mrs. Hunter was 
a woman of excellent mind and possessed an inex- 
haustible fund of general information. He died 
March 23, 1S87. having been preceded to the 
grave by his wife. May 12. 1856. Their children 
are named, Joseph C. , Jane, William W. and 
Joshua J, 

William W. Hunter (whose name opens this 
sketch) was born March 4, 1837, in Hopewell 
township, this county, and attended the common 
schools of the vicinity until twenty years of age, 
when he taught school in Hopewell township four 
years. When the Civil war began he had arrange- 
ments made for studying law in Washington. Penn., 
being unable to enlist in the army, having lost his 
right arm in a threshing machine in 1859, but he 
engaged as a teamster, remaining in that work 
until March 12, 1863. He then returned to farm 
life, and December 15, 1864, was united in mar- 
riage with Lizzie T.. born April 3, 1837, .laughter 
of Caldwell Smiley. Their children are: Joseph W., 
John S., Clarence M., and Howard T. Joseph W. 
is a student at the Philadelphia Medical College. 
Mr. Hunter was born on the farm where he is now 
living. The home place contains 911 acres, and 
he owns an additional tract of I12i acres. When 
a young man of twenty years he began contribut- 
ing to newspapers, having obtained a high reputa 
tion as a writer, and is at present a regular con- 
tributor to the Pittsburgh National Stockman. 
Western Agriculturist, Dakota Farmer and 
Breeders? Gazette. He is regarded as an enter 
taining public speaker. Probably no other man in 
private life in this county has been called upon as 
often to speak at religious, educational, patriotic 
and agricultural meetings. He devotes his prin- 
cipal attention to the breeding of draft horses. Mr. 
and Mrs. Hunter are members of the Upper 
Buffalo Presbyterian Church, in which he has been 
an elder twenty years, and superintendent of the 
Sabbath school for fifteen years, where he is now a 
teacher. He was a commissioner from the Wash- 
ington Presbvtery to the Presbyterian General 
Assembly at Detroit. Mich., in 1891. In politics 
he votes the Republican ticket, but though often 
urged to do so. has never allowed his name to 
appear as a candidate for office. 

Joseph C. Hunter, a brother of William W.. 
and eldest son of William and Maria (Chambers) 
Hunter, was born in 1831. on the farm in Hope- 
well township, and was educated at the Millers 
burg, Lancaster Co , Penn., Normal School, gradu 
afing with the class of T>8. He fitted himself for 
teaching, and followed that occupation until 
I the war began. He enlisted in August. 1862, in 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1161 



Company C, Twenty second Pennsylvania Cavalry, 
and participated in all the engagements of his 
regiment until his death, in 1864, resulting from 
exposure. Among the battles in which he fought 
may be mentioned Loomy Creek, Devil's Hole, 
Moortield, Pancake Gap. Petersburg, Fredericks- 
burg, Monocacy Junction, Cedar Creek, and many 
other engagements. 

Jane Hunter (a sister of Joseph C.) was born 
in 1835 in Hopewell township, this county, receiv- 
ing her education in the common schools and Buf 
falo Academy; she afterward taught two terms of 
school, and, in 1862, was married to Hon. J. li. 
Kelley, who enlisted in 1861 in an Ohio regiment, 
was discharged because of broken health in 1862, 
and returned to bis home. He represented Wash- 
ington county in the State Legislature of 1864, 
1865 and 1866, being Speaker of the House the 
last year, and afterward edited the Washington 
Reporter. He died in 1871, leaving three chil- 
dren: Mary 1! (wife of C. B. Jackson, Clays 
vide, has one child, Kathleen), Annie L. (wife of 
James Ray, of Claysville) and John W. (married 
to Annie Milligan, Claysville, now of Mannington, 
W. Va.). 

Joshua J. Hunter (a brother of Joseph C. ) was 
born June 1, 1832, and reared in Hopewell town 
ship, this county, receiving his education in the 
Buffalo Academy. lie followed farming until the 
war opened, and in August. L861, enlisted in 
Company I, First Pennsylvania Cavalry, being dis- 
charged for physical disability in May, lSli2. He 
re-enlisted in August, 1862, with his brother, in 
Company C, Twenty-second Cavalry, as commis 
sary sergeant. He died in February, 18<>.">. in 
the hospital, from the effects of hardship and ex 
posure in the service. 



</ 



li JlfRS. MARY BOON, widow of William 
\//\ Boon, is a daughter of James Speer, who 
■i I was a son of James, and grandson of 
^ Robert Speer. The latter was a native 
of Adams county, Penn., and settled in 
Washington county at a very early date. He and 
his family afterward moved to New Concord, Mus- 
kingum Co., Ohio, where he died. His sou, James, 
was born in Adams county, Penn., and came to 
Ohio with his parents in early childhood, passing 
the most of his life near New Concord. At that 
time the Indians were yet numerous in the coun- 
try, but were usually friendly, and often visited 
the Speer family. During these calls the squaws 
invariably left their poor little "papooses" 
strapped to a board outside the door. Thus, amid 
the scenes of pioneer days, was James Speer 
reared to manhood. In early life he was married 
to Miss Catheriue Latta, and settled in Washing 



ton county, Penn., where he died November 14, 
1849. Their children were born as follows: Deb 
orah, Robert, Thomas L. , James, Jane and Nancy, 
all of whom are now deceased. 

James Speer, son of James and Catherine Speer, 
was born in 1810, on the farm in Peters township, 
Washington Co., Penn., where his widow is now 
living. In 1839 he was united in marriage with 
Maria Calahan, who was born in 1814 in Peters 
township, this county. She is a daughter of 
Thomas Calahan (carpenter), a son of Joseph 
Calahan, a native of Ireland. Mrs. Thomas Cala- 
han died when her daughter Maria was but five 
years of age, and the child passed her girlhood in 
the house of John Rankin, of Washington county, 
where she remained until her marriage. 

James and Maria Speer were the parents of 
eight children, viz. : Mary, Kate, Eliza J. (de- 
ceased), a son deceased in infancy, Adeline (wife 
of George Scott, of Des Moines, Iowa), Blanche 
( Mrs. James Emery, of Washington county, Penn.), 
Anna Margaret (widow of William Paden, has one 
son, Lloyd H), and an infant daughter (deceased). 
The father died April 29, 1878. Of these children, 
Mary Speer was married to William Boon, grand- 
son of John. 

John Boon, the grandfather, was born in Ire- 
land, where he grew to manhood and married. 
This family came to America many years ago, 
and first settled in Dauphin county, Penn., where 
Mr. Boon was engaged in farming and distilling, 
most of the wheat being then distilled, as prod 
uce brought no profit. He finally moved to Can- 
onsburg, Penn., where the parents died. Their 
children were born as follows: William, James, 
John, Mary, Jane, Margaret Elizabeth, Joseph 
and Nancy. In politics Mr. Boon was a Whig, 
and in religion a member of the Presbyterian 
Church at Miller's Run. 

William Boon, grandson of John Boon and son 
of William and Margaret Boon, was born July 10, 
1831, in Cecil township, Washington Co., Penn., 
and passed his youth on the home farm. In 
1861 he enlisted in the One Hundred and Fifty 
fourth Regiment, P. V. L, serving nine months, 
then returning to Cecil township, this county, was 
married February 9, 1865, to Miss Mary Speer. 
To this marriage were born four children, namely: 
Nettie E., James L., John A. and Blaine, all of 
whom are living. The father followed general ag 
riculture and devoted considerable attention to 
Bheep raising. In politics he was a Republican. 
He died July 20, 1884, in his fifty-third year. 
Since the death of her husband Mrs. Boon has 
continued to reside on the old place, which has 
been her home for twenty-six years. It contains 
100 acres of good land. Mrs. Boon is a member 
of the United Presbyterian Church at Canonsburg. 



L168 



i! AS/flNGTON COUNT)'. 



fli DAM S. FERGUSON, a prominent farmer 

/,' l\ of Somerset township, is a native of the 

r" l\ same and a son of Robert Ferguson, whose 

J -* father (Robert) was born in Lancaster 

county, Penn., and there married to Lydia 

Ferguson, who was born in the same county. 

Eleven children were born to them, and the grand 

father died at the age of eighty three years; his 

wife had died several years before. 

Robert Ferguson was born February 29, 1S04, on 
a farm in Washington county, receiving a common- 
school education. He was married to Elizabeth 
Smith, and they had eight children (only three of 
whom are living), viz.: Adam S., Sarah J. (married 
to Richard Huffman, a resident of Washington 
county, Penn.), Robert (a farmer of Somerset 
township), Lydia (deceased), Elizabeth (deceased) 
and three others who died in infancy. The father 
and mother are both deceased. 

Adam S. Ferguson was born May 7, L836, in 
Somerset township, this county, and from early 
childhood was trained to agricultural duties, re 
ceiving a common business education. In 1869 he 
married Rachel McDonough, a native of this 
county, who bore him one daughter, deceased in 
infancy, the mother following it in 1873. In l^iH 
Adam S. Ferguson was united in marriage with 
Lucinda Degarmo, who was born in 1830, daughter 
of William and Elizabeth Degarmo, natives of 
Washington county. Mr. Degarmo was a farmer, 
and the parent of five children, four of whom are 
now living: Hannah (wife of Thomes Lytle, a 
farmer of Fallowfield township, this county). 
Elizabeth (married to Matthias Hartley, a farmer 
of Amwell township), Maria and Lucinda (Mrs. 
Ferguson). The parents are yet living in Fallow- 
tield township, aged eighty years. 

Adam S. Ferguson and his wife have had two 
children, namely: Elizabeth G. (living at home) 
and Lavina (deceased). Mr. Ferguson is identified 
with the Democratic party. He devotes particular 
attention to his well cultivated farm of 180 acres. 
His wife is a member of the Disciple Church. 




1 1LLIAM PROUDFIT is descended from 
' a well known family of Washington 
county. David Proudfit, Ids grandfather, 
was a native of Scotland, and. coming to 
America, located in York county, Penn., 
where his son John was born January 28, 177"). 

In 1802 this John Proudfit came to Washington 
county, Penn., locating in Hanover township. On 
April 9, 1809, he was united in marriage with 
Elizabeth Lyle, a native of Cross Creek (then 

Hopewell) township, born March 24, 1793, a 
daughter of John and* Elizabeth (Hays) Lyle. 



Some time after their marriage, John and Eliza 
beth (Lyle) Proudfit returned to York county, as 
the father of John was growing old and feeble, 
and needed the care of his children. The young 
couple remained on the home farm until the death 
of the father, which event occurred in 1826, 
John and his family then again moved to Wash 
ington county, settling one mile west of Burgetts- 
town, where he passed the remainder of his life. 
The trips across the mountains were fraught with 
much danger and inconvenience. On one occasion 
Mr. and Mrs. Proudfit rode 300 miles on horse- 
back to visit relatives in York county, the wife 
carrying an infant in her arms, and many hard 
ships were endured on the journey. The follow- 
ing children were born to these pioneers: David, 
born August 13, 1810, died September 19, 1813; 
John L. (deceased), born September 3, 1M'_'; 
James K., horn April 21, 1815, died February 25, 
1816; Eliza J. (Mrs. Arthur Campbell, of Smith 
township), born January 2, 1S17, died December 
21, 1892; Agnes, born June 17, 1819, died August 
15, 1824; Robert F., born December 23, 1821, 
died in Smith township, in September, 1886; Cin- 
derella (wife of Jacob Proudfit, a native of Ashland 
county, Ohio), born September 16, 1824; William, 
born May 10, 1828; Andrew, born March 20, 1831 ; 
and Eleanor (Mrs. Thomas Shipley, of Hanover 
township, this county), born August 29, 1 833, now 
in Hanover township. 

William Proudfit was born and reared in Smith 
township, Washington county, attending the home 
schools and working on the farm during his boy 
hood. On January 4, 1855, he was united in mar- 
riage with Catherine Riddile, who was born April 
5, 1833, a daughter of Samuel Riddile, of Sruith 
township. She has borne him the following chil 
dren: Elizabeth C. (Mrs. Hon. T. M. Patterson, 
of Burgettstown, Penn.), Margaret S. (wife of Dr. 
S. L. McCullough, of Frankfort Springs, Beaver 
Co., Penn.), Andrew C. (a farmer of Smith town- 
ship), Mary J. (Mrs. Miller Russell, of Robinson 
township), Samuel R. (living at home), William R. 
(deceased), John L. (who is a student of Washington 
and Jefferson College) and Kate B. (residing with 
her parents). Mr. and Mrs. Proudfit resided on 
the home farm a short time after their marriage, 
then moved to a pleasant place situated at the 
confluence of Middle Raccoon creek with the main 
stream, his farm comprising 221 acres. He has 
followed general agriculture, including stock rais- 
ing, and was extensively engaged in breeding fine 
sheep, being now much interested in the dairy 
business. Mr. Proudfit is a successful man in the 
best sense of the term, having won a large number 
of warm friends. Politically, he has always been 
a Democrat. He and his wife are members of the 
Presbyterian Church. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1169 



J I AMES McCLEERY, a prosperous fanner, 
wool-grower and stock raiser of Hopewell 
) township, was born October 7, 1854, in West 
Finley township, Washington Go., Penn. 
Ho comes of pioneer stock, his parents, Alexander 
and Mary (Davidson) McCleery, being natives of 
West Finley township, while his grandparents, 
James and Catherine (Ferbis) McCleery, were 
reared in this county. 

James McCleery (the grandfather) was born in 
Ireland, and his parents sailed for America when 
he was small. They came to Donegal township, 
this county, where he grew to manhood and was 
married to Catherine Ferbis. After their marriage 
they removed to West Finley township, where 
their children were reared: John, Alexander, 
Joseph, Thomas, Jane and James, the latter dying 
in youth. 

Alexander McCleery was reared on the farm, 
receiving such education as was afforded in his 
time. When he was thirty-one years of age he 
married Mary Davidson, and afterward purchased 
a farm. His wife died in 1866, leaving four chil- 
dren: William D., James (subject of this sketch), 
Nettie J. and Robert D. His second wife was 
Elizabeth Ackley, of Greene county, who has borne 
him one daughter, Mary Elizabeth. He resides in 
West Finley township with two of his unmarried 
children, Robert D. and Mary E. His eldest son, 
William D., is a physician at Hanoverton, Ohio. 
Nettie J. is married to R. J. Buchanan, and is re- 
siding in Ohio county, W. Va. 

James McCleery, son of Alexander and Mary 
(Davidson) McCleery, received his early education 
in the public schools of West Finley township. He 
then went to Oberlin, Ohio, where he pursued a 
scientific course of study for nine terms. After 
leaving college he turned his attention to farming, 
remaining with his father until 1885. On January 
24, 1884, he was married to Lulu V., daughter of 
Robert and Jane (Lucas) Sutherland. In 18S5 he 
removed to a farm in the southwestern part of 
Hopewell township. He now owns 171 acres of 
well improved and well-stocked laud. Politically 
he is a Republican, but while taking a lively in- 
lerest in political affairs, voices his sentiment by 
his ballot alone. Mr. McCleery has two children, 
Frank Ross and Mary Templeton. 




\ILLIAM T. COURSON, a public spirited 
and intelligent citizen of Amwell town 
ship, is a son of Benjamin Courson, who 
— ' married a daughter of John Carter, of 
that township. The young couple lived 
in Franklin township several years, and then moved 
to the old farm in Amwell township, which he still 
owns, and where were born their seven children, 
as follows: William T. , John N. (deceased), Mrs. 



Nancy Van Kirk, Mrs. Margaret Lacock, Mrs. Jane 
Galley, Frank M. and Fannie. 

William T. Courson, the eldest in the above 
named family, was born in Franklin township, 
Washington Co., Penn., and when six years old 
was brought by his parents to Amwell township, 
where he has since resided. On May 21, 187(5, he 
was united in marriage with Miss Sidney Watson, 
a daughter of William W. and Catherine Watson, 
whose children were: Mrs. Sarah Jane Shipe, Mrs. 
Mary Callie McFee, Robert, Henry (deceased). 
Mena, Lenora (deceased) and Sidney. Mr. Watson 
died November 30, 1891, and Mr. William T. 
Courson has since bought the home farm of the 
deceased, which property comprises sixty-one acres. 

William T. and Catherine (Watson) Courson 
have had live children, namely: Lillie, Herschel, 
Willie, Ray and John. Mr. Courson has been a 
farmer all his life, and is the owner of about 122 
acres of tine land, to which he gives his principal 
attention. He has accumulated a comfortable 
competence by his own unaided efforts, and al- 
though barely forty years of age, is already enjoy- 
ing the fruits of early toil. He is a "hustling" 
Republican, and has held several minor offices in 
a manner creditable to himself and satisfactory to 
his constituency. In religious faith he is a mem- 
ber of the M. E. Church. 



J | AMES JOHNSTON. Of the prosperous and 
representative farmers of Cecil township, this 
J gentleman deserves prominent mention. His 
ancestors were natives of Ireland, from which 
country his grandparents, John and Elizabeth 
Johnston, emigrated to this country, settling per- 
manently in South Fayette township, Allegheny 
Co., Penn. John Johnston passed away in 1841, 
and was followed by bis wife two years later. 

John Johnston (a son of this pioneer couple) was 
born in 1802, on the home place in Allegheny 
county, Penn. He was reared to manhood in 
South Fayette township, and in early life was 
married to Elizabeth Roy, who was born in 1803, 
in Ireland. She was a daughter of Thomas and 
Margaret Roy, who came to America many years 
ago, locating on a farm on Miller's run, Cecil town- 
ship, this county, where the father died in 1849, 
his wife soon following him. Seven children were 
born to the union of John and Elizabeth (Roy) 
Johnston, namely: Rachel (who died in 1849, at 
the age of eighteen years), Margaret (deceased 
April 3, 1887, wife of Joseph Campbell, Allegheny 
county, Penn.), Elizabeth (deceased iu childhood), 
Elizabeth (married to William Bowman, Allegheny 
county), James (subject), W. J. (residing in Peters 
township, this county) and Martha Jane (wife of 
W. P. Morgan, Canonsburg). Mr. Johnston was a 
conservative in politics, and iu religion he and his 



1170 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



wife were members of the U. P. Church at Robin - 
sun's Run. He died February 7, 1853, in South 
Fayette township, Allegheny county, and the 
in ither passed away December 14, 1891, while re- 
siding in Canonsburg, this county. 

James Johnston was born January 14, 1840, on 
the home farm in South Fayette township, Alle- 
gheny Co., Penn., receiving his education in the 
district schools. In 18(50 he came to Cecil town- 
ship, Washington county (where he has since re- 
mained), and purchased 208 acres of Land, which 
had been patented by William Long in 1784. He 
was united in marriage with Susanna, daughter of 
Robert and Susanna Bell, early settlers of Peters 
township, this county. Mr. Johnston has made 
many improvements on his farm, and is prospering 
in his chosen vocation. Politically he votes with 
the Republican party. He is a member of the 
Greenside U. P. Church at Canonsburg, and his 
wife was connected with the Presbyterian Society 
at Centre. She died March 7, 1892, aged forty- 
four years three months seventeen days, leaving 
five children: John B., MaryE., Robert, Laura 
and James Harvey. , 



PvHILIP ADDISON MINTON, one of the 
successful and enterprising farmers of 
Morris township, is a grandson of Philip 
Minton, who was born in New Jersey, of 
English parentage, and in 1780 moved with 
his brother Matthias to Washington county, Penn., 
locating a mile south of Sparta, in Morris town- 
ship. He soon after married a Miss Clutter, of the 
same county, who bore him the following children : 
John, Thaddeus, George W., Sophronia, Harriet 
and Ruth, of whom George W. is the only surviv- 
ing member, and he resides on the old homestead. 
Thaddeus Minton was born August 15, 1805, 
and received but a limited education at the sub- 
scription schools. He was a natural mechanic, 
and worked successfully at carpentering, milling 
and shoemaking. He was married to Parmelia 
Squires, of Morris township, and their children 
were: Warren, engaged in the lumber and coal 
business, at Charleston, III.; Philip A., the subject 
of this biography; J. W., who lives in Washing- 
ton, Penn.. a trusted employe in a large iron mill; 
Rachel, wife of J. M. Dille. of Morris township; 
Ruth, married to E. Dille, a resident of Waynes- 
burgh, Greene Co., Penn., and Anna L., the widow 
of H. Adams, living in Prosperity. 

Philip Addison Minton was born in Morris town- 
ship, Washington Co., Penn., October 12, 1837, and 
was educated in the common schools. At the age 
i if seventeen he learned the carpenter's trade, which 
he lias followed for twenty-two years, and has won 
t he reputation of a skilled workman. On February 
28, 1801, he was united in marriage with Keziah 



Dille, who was born April 11, 1830, a daughter of 
Lewis Dille. Mr. Minton lived in Prosperity, 
Morris township, for two years after his marriage, 
then in 1863 removed to the "Old Jeduthian 
Sanders" farm, lying three miles northeast of 
Prosperity, and in 1805 came to the well-improved 
farm where he has since resided. They have had the 
following children: James O., born December 28, 
1861, married to Victoria Tharp; Laura V., born 
July 17, 1804, died in infancy; Annie May, born 
December 12, 1805, wife of Stephen Tharp, and . 
living near Ten-Mile village, Washington county; 
Chester W., born June 21, 1808, a dentist, practic- 
ing in Brooklyn, N. Y. ; Lillie F., born April 1, 
1871, died November 1, 1877; Lizzie B., born 
November 20, 1873, died November 9, 1877, and 
Herschel P., born May 24, 1879, yet living with 
his parents. 

In 1 S05 a terrible conflagration destroyed all the 
property of Mr. Minton, and amid the confusion, 
a beloved child was lost before it could be rescued. 
Once more he began life with no property except 
ing one horse and a cow; but with the kind assist- 
ance of sympathetic neighbors, he began farming 
on a very limited scale. However, his " never- 
say-die" disposition soon put him "on his feet" 
again, and today he owns a good, well stocked 
farm, upon which he has erected one of the finest 
barns in the township, built and modeled by him- 
self. Politically he is a Democrat, and in religious 
conviction is an elder in the Upper Ten Mile 
Presbyterian Church, of which his wife is also a 
member. 



JOHN SWAGLER, a wealthy farmer of Peters 
township, is a grandson of Jacob Swagler, 
who emigrated from Germany to America, 
and coming to Washington county, Penn., 
bought a farm on Pigeon creek, in Somerset 
township. In early manhood he was wedded to a 
Miss Layton, who bore him several children, among 
whom were two sons: Jacob (who settled in Wayne 
county, Ohio) and Jonathan. 

Jonathan Swagler, son of the pioneer Jacob, 
was born in 1795, on the farm in Somerset town- 
ship, Washington county, where his entire life was 
passed. He was married to Miss Sarah Horn, of 
Amwell township, Washington county, and their 
children were as follows: Solomon, Hannah (de- 
ceased), Delilah, Elizabeth, Eliza J., John, Jacob, 
Mary (deceased), and Susanna. The father died 
in 1870, having been preceded by the mother in 
1872. 

John Swagler, son of John and Sarah (Horn) 
Swagler, was born in 1827 on the old Swagler 
homestead in Somerset township, this county. 
His youth was passed on the home place, and in 
1859 he was married to Margaret, a daughter of 



/ 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



1173 



Jonathan Dague, of West Bethlehem township. 
After his marriage John Swagler bought and moved 
upon 187 acres in Peters township, which he pur- 
chased by payments. Not only has he cleared the 
farm from indebtedness, but has added to the 
original tract 130 adjoining acres. He also owns 
forty acres near Venetia, upon which is located the 
Swagler mills. In addition to managing the mill 
Mr. Swagler has been a successful farmer and 
stock dealer, having until quite recently enjoyed 
the reputation of raising the finest wooled sheep in 
Washington county. He has recently sold the 
coal which has been found under his land for 
$30,000. He is quiet and unassuming in manner, 
never boasting of his own success. In politics lie 
is a Republican. To his first marriage three chil- 
dren were born, viz.: Sarah J., Jonathan and Em 
ma. For his second wife he wedded, November 
27, 1879, Margaret, daughter of James McCor- 
mick, of Peters township, and she has borne him 
one son, Charles. 




\ILLIAM McPEAK was bora February 7, 
1841, on the farm in Cecil township where 
he is now living. He is a son of .lames 
McPeak, whose lather was a native of 
Maryland, and in 1802 crosed the mount 
ains, locating permanently in Mt. Pleasant town 
ship, Washington Co., Penn. 

James McPeak was born in 1800, in " The 
Glades, "and when but two years of age was 
brought, by his parents to a farm near Hickory, 
Penn. When a young man he was married to 
Jane Cochran, a native of North Strabane town 
ship, and in 183') they settled on the farm where the 
remainder of their lives was passed. He was an 
active member of the Whig ami Republican party. 
and held several township offices He ami his 
wife were formerly members of the Seceder Ch urch 
at Noblestown, and afterward united with the 11. P. 
Church at Venice. In 1851 he was elected a mem- 
ber of the Session, filling that position until his 
death, which event occurred in 1880, the mother 
being laid beside him in 1885. Their children 
were: Samuel, living in Mansfield, Penn.; Will 
iam, of whom further mentiou is made; Sarah, 
wife of J. R. Dinsmore, Allegheny county, Penn. ; 
Elizabeth, wife of D. L. McConnell, of Cecil town- 
ship; David, living in Smith township; and Martha, 
wife of J. F. Mawhinney, of Cecil township. 

William McPeak remained on the home place 
during his boyhood, attending school in District 
No. 3, Cecil township. When the Civil war opened 
he became a member of the State Guards ami was 
drafted in the first nine months' draft. In 1861 
he was united in marriage with Abigail, daughter 
of Stewart and Nancy (Alexander) Hickman, all of 
whom were natives of South Fayette township, Alle 



gheny Co., Penn. The father died in 1874, in his 
native county; the mother is now residing in Can 
onsburg, Penn. Since their marriage Mr. and 
Mrs. McPeak have resided on the old homestead, 
which contains 100 acres in a good state of cultiva- 
tion. He is an active member of the Prohibition 
party, and is now serving his second term as town- 
ship commissioner. He and his wife are members 
of the United Presbyterian Church at Venice. 
They have two children: S. J. and W. H. 



d/ H. GREGG is descended from a family who 
were among the first settlers of East Pike 
| Run township. Many years ago three broth 
ers, Henry, William and John Gregg, emi 
grated from the Emerald Isle and made a 
permanent settlement in Fast Pike Kiln township, 
Washington Co., Penn. Henry took a patent for 
310 acres of land known as the "Burning Mine," 
which is now owned by a Mr. Duvall. John Gregg 
was twice married; William, the second brother, 
was the grandfather of J. H. Gregg. William 
Gregg was married to Ruth Jackman, a native of 
Ireland, and they settled on the farm in Fast Pike 
Run township, where eight children were born as 
follows: Robert (married to Ann Robison), An- 
drew. Henry (married to Jane Dowler), John 
(married to N'ancv Gregg), Mary Ann, Sarah, 
Jemima and Margaret (Mrs. Crow). 

Andrew Gregg was born in March, 1808, in 
East Pike Run township, Washington county, and 
;>,is-,ed his youth on the homestead. He was mar- 
ried to Mary Ann Huggins, who was born in 1816, 
in what is now Allen township, Washington coun- 
ty, and of the children born to this union six are 
yet living, namely: Lucy Ann, wife of V. C. 
Jones, of Fallowfield township; Ruth Ann, married 
to William Sphar, of Allen township; A. J., 
living in East. Pike Run township; R. W. ; Sarah 
Jane, wife of Thomas F. Fry, of Chase county, 
Kans., and J. H. The father was actively identi- 
fied with the interests of the Republican party. 
He died in 1872, on the old farm where his widow 
is yet living. 

J. H. Gregg was born March 16, 1853, in East 
Pike Run township, and is the youngest in his 
father's family. His youth and earlier manhood 
were passed in the home neighborhood where he 
attended school. In 18N2 he came to the farm in 
Allen township, upon which he has erected a good 
house and barn. On February 8, 1888, he was 
united in marriage with Jennie, daughter of Stephen 
and Hannah (Shaw) Ward, and a native of Allen 
township. Her parents are early settlers of Wash- 
ington county, and are now living at Wood's Run. 
Mr. and Mrs. Gregg are the parents of three 
children, viz.: Frank, Alpharetta and Joseph 
Riley. The home place contains eighty acres of 



1174 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



well cultivated land, and he is a prosperous farmer. 
Iu politics be is identified with the Republican 
party. Mrs. Gregg is a member of the M. E. 
Church at Lueyville. 



+/ 



li Mi US. MARGARET BLACK, widow of 
\//\ John A. Black, is a native of Morris town 
\l I ship, this county, where she still resides. 
^ She was born in 1832, on what is known 
as the old " Rutan farm," where she 
spent the days of her girlhood, and was one of a 
family of thirteen born to John Rutan, a prosper- 
ous farmer. They were of New Jersey descent. 
Margaret Rutan united with the Presbyterian 
Church when eighteen years of age. She was mar- 
ried to John A. Black in I860. 

John A. Black was born April 18, 1826, near 
Johnstown, and was one of a family of six chil- 
dren, all of whom emigrated West except himself, lo- 
cating in the States of Iowa, Nebraska and Missouri. 
The ancestors came from Ireland, and the family 
lias been characterized by honesty and sterling 
worth. Mr. Black early chose as his vocation that 
of a carpenter, in which he made himself proficient, 
and locating in Morris township, where he devoted 
his energy to his calling, was amply prosperous. 
When his country was in peril he did not hesitate 
in the performance of his duty, but, in 1862, left 
his young wife and home, and gave himself over 
to the "fortunes of war,'' enlisting in Company 
D, 140th Regiment, P. V. I., and served until the 
war closed. He was captured at Gettysburg, and 
consigned to Belle Isle prison, where he was for 
six months held a prisoner of war, enduring all the 
hardships incident to prison life. 'In conjunction 
with three of his fellow-prisoners, plans for escape 
were laid, but the hardships and ill food to which 
he had been subjected had so reduced him physic- 
ally as to render him unable to travel. So much 
attached to him were his companions in misfortune 
that, rather than accept liberty at the cost of leav- 
ing him behind, they chose to remain and share 
his fate. The war ending, Mr. Black returned to 
his home, where he resided until his death, which 
resulted in 1880 from the kick of a horse. By his 
kind disposition, sterling uprightness and Christian 
charity he won many lasting friends, and enjoyed 
an enviable popularity. He was an active member 
of the Presbyterian Church, iu which he was an 
elder, and an enthusiastic Sunda} 7 school worker, 
being an instructor in the Sunday-school at the 
time of his death. In political views he was a Re- 
publican, though conservative. 

To Mr. and Mrs. Black were born three sons, 
namely: Brice, born March 25, 1801 (married 
June 11, 1892, to Lizzie Reller, of this county); 
John Miller, born June 8, 1807 (married Septem- 
ber 13, 1892, to Lizzie Dille, of Washington 



county), and Boyd E., born March 18, 1871. 
Since her husband's death, Mrs. Black and her 
two sons, Brice and Boyd E., have managed to 
good advantage the farm and other property. The 
place on which they reside, known as the " Tim- 
othy Lindley " farm, has been their home since 
1806. John M. Black works at the carpenter's 
trade, which was also followed by his father. 



JlOHN F. BUCHANAN is a worthy represent;! 
tive of one of the leading pioneer families of 
) Buffalo township. His ancestors were of 
Irish birth, and his grandfather, John Bu- 
chanan, was married in Ireland to a Miss Foster, 
a native of the same country. The young couple 
remained in their native land several years, and 
then, in company with several others, embarked for 
America in a small sailing vessel. They had a 
long and tedious voyage of sixteen weeks, and 
finally landing in New York, remained a short time 
in eastern Pennsylvania, afterward moving to 
Washington county, same State. They made a 
permanent settlement as farmers in Chartierstown 
ship, and died there, leaving a family of children. 
Mr. Buchanan was an active member of the Se- 
ceder Church in Buffalo township for man}' years. 
He was a member of the Democratic party. He 
and his wife were buried in the cemeterv at North 
Buffalo. 

Thomas Buchanan (father of subject) was born 
and reared in Chartiers township, Washington 
Co.,Penn., there receiving his early education. 
He was united in marriage with Sarah, daughter 
of James Simley, of Cross Creek township, this 
county, who bore him the following children: 
James S., John F., Alexander and Samuel. Mr. 
Buchanan was a farmer, and passed his early married 
life in Peters township, this county, afterward pur- 
chasing a farm in Buffalo township, where he re- 
mained some years, finally settling in Cross Creek 
township. In early life he evinced an unusual 
strength of character, and ever exerted a beneficial 
influence upon the moral and religious sentiment 
of the community. Mr. Buchanan was also a 
warm friend of education, and served on the school 
board many years. He died July 16, 1869, and 
was followed by his wife in June, 1875. 

John F. Buchanan was born October 2, 182'.), 
and passed his earlier years at home. He then 
learned the trade of a miller, which he has since fol 
lowed, for a number of years operating a mill in 
Cross Creek township, and now owning one in 
Taylorstown, same county. He is known in the 
community as a man who never loses an oppor- 
tunity of doing a good deed, and never allows it 
to be known. Mr. Buchanan has never married. 
Iu political life he is a Democrat. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1175 




\ILSON LINVILLE is a native of Wash 
ington county, Perm., born March 12, 1S46, 
on his father's farm in Donegal township. 
He is a son of George Linville, whose 
grandfather, Peter Linville, was a pioneer 
farmer of Mt. Pleasant township, Washington Co., 
Penn., and there reared a family of children, one 
of whom was Jeremiah Linville, grandfather of the 
subject of this sketch; three other sons — Peter, 
Aaron and Lewis — moved to Kentucky, where they 
lived and died. 

Jeremiah Linville was born in 1790, in Mt. 
Pleasant township, and on attaining a mature age 
enlisted in the army during the war of 1812. In 
the Ohio campaign he chanced to see Aaron Lin 
villa, one of his three brothers who had gone to 
Kentucky many years before, and was then a mem- 
ber of a Kentucky regiment. But tiny were on a 
rapid march, which was immediately followed by 
an engagement, so the brothers had no chance to 
speak — a formal salute as their eyes met in startled 
recognition, and again they parted. In 1S11 Jere- 
miah Linville was united in marriage with Eliza 
beth Riley, who was born in 1795, near Winchester, 
Va., and afterward came with her parents to 
Washington county, Penn. To Mr. and Airs. Lin- 
ville children were born as follows: Lavina (de- 
ceased), Maria (deceased), George \V. , Lucretia 
(Mrs. Samuel Hanen, of Maidsville, \Y. Va.), liar 
riet, Drusilla, Cyrena (the latter three being de- 
ceased), Caroline (widow of Henry Hilloc, of 
Wetzel county, W. Va.) and Amanda (Mrs. Frank 
lin Fisher, of Claysville, Penn.). Mr. Linville 
lived near Atchison, Donegal township, the greater 
part of his life, but in later years moved to West 
Middletown, same county, and lived in retirement 
with his wife until they were both laid to rest, 
after a life of many and useful years. 

George W. Linville, father of our subject, was 
born August 10, 1816, in Donegal township, and 
secured his education in the common schools of the 
day. In 1836 he was united in marriage with 
Mary Rodgers, who was born January 22, 1819, a 
daughter of Francis Rodgers, and she bore him 
children as follows: Alfred (deceased). George, 
Elizabeth, Mary Jane (deceased), Francis, Wilson, 
Jeremiah, John and Calvin Terry. The mother of 
these children died in 1865, and in 1867 Mr. Lin- 
ville was married to Lydia Lucas, who was born 
September 29, 1838, a daughter of Benjamin Lu- 
cas, of Donegal township, Washington county, and 
they had two sons: Roley and Newton, both of 
whom are living at home. Mr. Linville has always 
been a farmer. In politics he is a Republican, 
and he and his wife are members of the Dutch 
Fork Disciple Church. 

Wilson Linville, son of George and Mary (Rod- 
gers) Linville, was brought when a young child to 
Independence township, this county, with his par- 



ents, receiving his education at the common schools. 
On October 16, 1884, he was married to Ella Cou- 
dit, who was born June 9, 1863, a daughter of 
Cephas Condit, of Amwell township, and to this 
union were born two children: Florence May and 
Harry Wilson. After his marriage Mr. Linville 
located on the old "Bane farm," a valuable tract 
of land, located one mile southwest of Atchison, 
which is now owned by himself and his brother 
Frank. They are extensive wool growers. Po- 
litically Wilson Linville is a Republican, and lias 
frequently filled offices of trust in his township, 
the duties of which he has performed with much 
credit. In religious connection he is an officei in 
and prominent member of the Disciple Church. 

Francis Linville, a brother of Wilson, with 
whom he is engaged in business, followed the car- 
penter's trade in early life, and afterward formed 
the above spoken of partnership with his brother. 
In polities he also is a Republican. The Linville 
Bros are recognized as honest and upright citizens, 
and enjoy the reputation of being thoroughly capa- 
ble business men. The Linville brothers -Wilson, 
Francis and Calvin Terry— located on the old farm 
in Donegal township in October, 1874. 



/GEORGE W. COFFEY. That Scotland has 
I furnished the United States with many of 

VI her best and most loyal citizens has never 

^"11 been disputed, anil in this respect no sec 
tion has been more favored than Washing- 
ton county. Prominent among such is the Coffey 
family, of whom the subject of this memoir is a 
worthy member. 

He is a son of George R. Coffey, who was born 
in 1801, in Ayrshire, Scotland, where he learned 
the trade of wheelwright, which he followed in 
his native laud. In 1836 he emigrated to Anier 
ica, landing in New York on the Fourth of July, 
our great national holiday. From New York he 
proceeded westward, and landing in Washington 
county took up his residence near the borough of 
that name, at what was then known as "Rankin," 
but is at the present day called "West End." 
After a brief sojourn here, he moved to Buffalo 
township, same county, where he put up a dwell 
ing and workshop on the then famous National 
pike, ami where he continued to industriously 
work at bis trade. Saving his earnings, he was at 
last enabled to purchase a tract of laud containing 
seventy-two acres, where he resided until four 
years prior to his death, when he moved into the 
borough of Washington. Before leaving Scotland 
Mr. Coffey had married Agnes, daughter of Alex- 
ander Dickey, and her he brought with him to this 
country, together with the following named chil- 
dren: Alexander (who died September 13, 1892), 
Margaret (deceased) and Ann (now in Washing- 



1176 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



ton county, Penn. ). The children born to them on 
this side the Atlantic were: Jane, William (de- 
ceased April 4, 1875), Georgo W. and Agnes (who 
died October 4, 1888). On June 30, 1886, the 
father passed from earth, the mother having pre- 
ceded him to the silent tomb some ten years be- 
fore. 

George VV. Coffey was born September 7, 1S41, 
at his parents' first home in Buffalo township, 
which, as above stated, stood by the National pike, 
and he received a good common school - education. 
On November 16, 1865, he was married to Nar- 
cissa A., daughter of William McCoy, and the young 
couple afterward, for twelve years, made their 
home in West Virginia, where Mr. Coffey followed 
with success the business of contractor. In 1879 
they returned to this county and took up their 
residence on the old Coffey homestead, where they 
now reside. The following named children have 
been born to them: George R., Martha It., 
Earnest Lester, Grace, Bessie, Clark and Chester, 
all yet under the parental roof. In 1890 Mr. 
Coffey erected his present handsome and com- 
modious residence, on the Baltimore & Ohio Rail- 
road, at the station known as " Coffey's," and the 
building and grounds are considered to be among 
the finest in the county, his farm covering 138 acres 
of the most fertile land. Here, in addition to 
general farming, he pays considerable attention to 
the breeding of blooded stock, including Poland- 
China hogs, and Oxford-Down sheep. Politically, 
he is a Democrat, and has tilled numerous town- 
ship offices with credit f~» himself and to the satis 
faction of his constituents. He affiliates with the 
United Presbyterian Church. 




\ILLIAM McCONNELL has been a suc- 
cessfnl fanner of Cecil township, ami, 
being retired from active business, is now 
— ' living in Hickory. He is a son of James 
McConnell, who was born in Cecil town 
ship. James McConnell was married to Sarah 
Phillips, who was born here in 1800, and passed 
their lives farming in the township. In politics he 
was originally a Whig, afterward becoming a Re- 
publican. He and his wife were members of the 
l'. 1'. Church at Robinson's Ran, in which he was 
a ruling elder. He died about 1872, having been 
preceded by his wife several years. 

James and Sarah McConnell were the parents of 
the following children: Mary (Mrs. Hugh Mc- 
Dowell, of Peters township), Martha (widow of 
Samuel Vaneman, of North Strabane township, 
who died in 1891), John (living on the old home- 
stead in Cecil township), William (subject of this 
sketch), James (residing in Peters township, a 
widower), Sarah (wife of Samuel McPeak, of 
Oanonsburg), Jane (living on the old home farm), 



Elizabeth (wife of Mark Kelso, of North Strabane 
township) and David (living in Cecil township). 

William McConnell was born March 29, 1831, on 
the farm in Cecil township, Washington county, 
and received his education in the subscription 
schools. He chose a life companion in the person 
of Rachel P. May, a native of Cecil township, and 
daughter of Alexander and Elizabeth (Bern) .May. 
January 8, 1857. Alexander May was born in 
Cecil township, and his wife was a native of 
Mt. Pleasant township, this county. After their 
marriage Mr. and Mrs. May settled in Cecil 
township. They were members of the Asso- 
ciate Church until the union, and in politics he 
was active in the Republican party. Mr. May 
died at Venice, this county, in 1872, being fol- 
lowed by his wife in 1884. William and Rachel 
(May) McConnell passed the first years of married 
life on a farm in Peters township, thiB county, but 
in 1862 he bought and moved upon a farm in 
Cecil township, remaining there until 1882, He 
then sold the place, and buying eight acres in 
Hickory, has since led a retired life in that village. 
His wife died in 18S7, leaving one daughter, Sarah 
Elizabeth, wife of John H. McCalmont, of Mt. 
Pleasant township. 



JS. VANCE. The Vance family were among 
the earliest pioneers of Washington county, 
. and as nearly as can be ascertained are per- 
haps the oldest settlers of Smith township. 
The first ancestor of these prominent citizens, 
if whom we have an accurate history, was one Maj. 
William Vance, born in 1718 in Scotland, andcame 
to Virginia in early life, afterward moving to Wash 
ington county, Penn., where he died April 18, 
1788. His son Joseph was born, about 175(1, 
near Winchester, Va., where he was married, and 
coming to Washington county, Penn., about 1773, 
located about three miles southwest of Burgetts 
town, in Smith township, on a large tract of land. 
This land was then an unbroken wilderness, or, to 
quote a pioneer phrase, " there was not a stick 
amiss," but it has since been divided into nine (if 
the finest farms in Washington county. As soon 
as a rude shelter had been erected for the family, 
Joseph Vance, in company with afew of his widelj 
parted neighbors, began the erection of what was 
known as " Vance's Fort." This was intended to 
protect the settlers from the onslaughts of the In- 
dians, who were yet numerous in the Territory, and 
bitterly resented the encroachment of the pale faces 
upon their hunting grounds. The fort was 
situated but a short distance from the cabin of 
Joseph Vance, and stood for many years, the only 
signs of its existence now visible being a piece of 
brick-colored ground and an old stone chimney. 
At tin' gates of Fort Vance, under a white oak 



.. '!,"■ ■ 






WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1179 



tree, ou October 14, 1778, the Rev. James Powers 
preached the first sermon known to have been 
heard west of the Alleghany mountains. On this 
wild tract Joseph Vance and his wife passed their 
lives, with the exception of occasional visits to his 
birthplace, and as the immigration increased, prop- 
erty rose in value. The vast tract of laud, once 
seemingly worthless, became very valuable and the 
pioneers reaped the deserved reward of early years 
of toil, privation and danger. The first wife of 
Joseph Vance died many years ago, leaving him 
six children, viz. : William, John, Joseph, Eliza 
beth, Jeannette and Mary. Of this family, Eliza 
beth married William Wylie, and Bettled in Harri- 
son county, Ohio; Jeannette married James Stephen - 
sou, and settled in Smith township, Washington 
Co., Penn. ; Mary married Robert Lee, and set- 
tled in Belmont county, Ohio; one son, Joseph, re- 
turned with his father on a visit to Virginia, then 
went west, and his fate was never known. For his 
secoud wife Mr. Vance was married to a native of 
Winchester, Va. , who died soon after their mar- 
riage, and he made a third choice in the person of 
Mary Moore, a native of Winchester, Va. , who 
bore him two daughters: Anna Mary (wife of 
William Brady, Ohio county, W. Va.), and Hannah 
(married to Edward Morgan, Ohio county. W. 
Va.). The father died May 6, 1832, and in 1852 
his faithful wife was laid beside him. 

William Vance, eldest son of Joseph, was born 
November 30, 1775, on the old "Fort Vance farm" 
in Smith township, where his boyhood was passed 
in the usual duties of pioneer life, a large portion 
of them falling to him as the eldest son. On De- 
cember 24, 1799, he was married to Rachel Fatter- 
son, who was born June 3, 1781, daughter of 
William Patterson, of Cross Creek township, this 
county. To the uuion of William and Rachel 
Vance children were born, of whom the following 
is a brief record: Cynthia, born March 8, 1801, 
married William Van Ostran (they moved to Wayne 
county, Ohio, where she died in 1884); Joseph, 
born September 18, 1802, was a farmer in Smith 
township, and died in 1864; James, born July 23, 
1804, followed agriculture in Jefferson township, 
this county, and died in 1881; William P., born 
September 4, 1806, lived on a farm in this county 
for some time, thence moving to Hardin county, 
Ky. , and is now a retired farmer of Caldwell 
county, Mo. ; Allison, born December 14, 1808, 
died in Washington county ou the home farm; 
Elizabeth, born February 17, 1811, is now living 
in Burgettstown, Penn., the widow of David S. 
Walker; Ann, born November 8, 1812, was united 
in marriage with Norris Walker (she died, leaving 
a large family of children); David, born April 14, 
1815, died in infancy; and Rachel, born December 
28, 1816, was married to Josiah N. Soott, and is 
now deceased, On January 9, 1817, the mother 



of these children passed from earth, and on Juue 
12, 1818, Mr. Vance was married to her sister, 
Hannah Patterson, who was born in 1786. Five 
children were born to this union, namely: Thomas 
P. (deceased farmer of Cross Creek township), 
born July 15, 1819;- Mary (unmarried, living in 
Rome, Ga. ), born June 1, 1821 ; Caroline (deceased 
wife of R. S. Caldwell, Hopewell township, this 
county), born December 30, 1824; John S., born 
June 7, 1827; and Jane (wife of J. S. Young, of 
Ohio, died in Rome, Ga., where they resided), born 
September 7, 1830. During his earlier life the 
father resided on the home faim in Smith town 
ship, in company with his brother John, whose in- 
terest he afterward purchased. In 1816 William 
Vance was elected a representative of Washing 
ton county in the State Legislature. He was an 
enthusiastic member of the Whig party, was a 
counselor and adviser among his friends, and 
favored the tariff bill from its infancy. After his 
term of office had expired, Hon. William Vance 
returned to his farm, haviug made a signal success 
in the performance of his duties. He was a liberal 
contributor toward and consistent attendant of the 
Presbyterian Church with which his wife was con- 
nected. He died April 18, 1856, and iu 1878 his 
widow followed him "across the dark river." 
Both are buried in the Cross Creek cemetery. 

John S. Vance was the second son of William 
and Hannah Vance. He grew to manhood on the 
home farm iu Smith township, where he was born, 
and received a common school education. On No- 
vember 9, 1848, he married Emily H. Jerome, who 
was born December 19, 1827, a daughter of John 
Jerome, of West Liberty, Ohio Co., W. Va., but a 
native of Maryland, whose widow (nee Harriet 
Miller) moved to Cross Creek village. Washington 
Co., Penn., after his death. Mrs. Vance has but one 
brother, James Jerome, living in Minerva, Stark 
Co., Ohio. John S. and Emily H. Vance have had 
the following children: Caroline J. (Mrs. Robert 
Campbell, of Sheridan, Penn.), William O. (living 
at home), Charles J. (residing in Oakdale Station, 
Allegheny Co., Penn.), Thomas W. (county re- 
corder of Jefferson county, Ohio), Joseph G. (a 
farmer of Cross Creek township, this county), Ed- 
win L. (deceased in youth), John F. (a resident of 
Bridgeville, Penn., in the office of the Pennsylvania 
Railroad Company), Jessie B. (deceased in child 
hood), Frank B. , Viola V. and Mary G. (the latter 
three living at home). 

After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Vance lived 
on the home farm in Smith township until 1858, 
when they settled on their present home, a portion 
of the original Vance tract, upon which Mr. Vance 
has erected new and commodious buildings. He 
follows farming and stock raising, giving consider 
able attention to the breeds of fine-grade sheep, 
and like all who have borne the name, is a most 



1180 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 




successful business man. He was a Whig, now 
voting the Republican ticket, bnt is not an active 
politician, as he has no ambition for office. He 
attends the Presbyterian Church of Cross Creek. 
His house, all the improvements on which were 
made by himself, is situated 'two miles southwest 
of Burgettstown. Mr. Vance is a man of large 
stature, and is in the enjoyment of good health. 



\ILLIAM M. REA is a descendant of one 
of the oldest families of Cross Creek 
township, whose ancestors have limy been 
identified with the history of northwest- 
ern Washington county. The first mem- 
ber of the family to locate in Washington county 
was William Rea, of whom it is only known that 
his life was passed among the early settlers of 
Cross Creek township, this county, where his chil- 
dren were horn and reared. 

William Rea was born on the home farm in 
Cross Creek township, and in early manhood was 
married to a Miss Campbell, a member of a pioneer 
family. Their children were John C, William 
(who became blind at the age of seventeen years, 
but lived to old age, spending most of his time 
with a brother Charles), Joseph V. (a farmer of 
Mt. Pleasant township), Jane (deceased wife of 
Cyrus Wells). Elizabeth (married to William T. 
Kerr, and died in Canonsburg, this county), Samuel 
(deceased in youth) and Charles C. (a farmer of 
Cross Creek township). The father of these chil- 
dren was a successful farmer, and in politics first 
an Old line Whig, then a Republican. He died in 
1865, being followed a few years later by his 
widow. 

John C. Rea was born March 13, 1813, on the 
home farm in Cross Creek township, and received 
a subscription school education. In 183(5 he was 
married to Mary A. Lyle, who was born in 1816, 
daughter of James and Mary (Campbell) Lyle. 
Her father was a descendant of the prominent 
pioneer family of that name who resided in Cross 
Creek and Smith townships, this county. To the 
union of John C. and Mary A. (Lyle) Rea, the fol- 
lowing children were born: James L. (deceased). 
William M. (of whom a sketch follows), Samuel J. 
(of Harrison county, Ohio), Elizabeth J. (deceased 
wife of D. M. Pry), Mary E. (deceased wife of 
John W. Pry), Aaron Tj. (was a soldier in the war 
of the Rebellion and died from tin 1 effects of dis 
ease contracted while in the service). Joseph V. 
(deceased), Alice M. (wife of Prof. Ewing S. Mc 
Wreath, of Hopewell township, this county), Eliza 
A. (Mrs. J. D. Cook, of Cross Creek township) and 
Elvira (deceased in infancy). The parents always 
resided on the old homestead in Cross Creek town- 
ship, this county, where the father followed agri- 
cultural pursuits. In politics he was, like his 



father, a Whig and Republican, and in reborns 
faith an earnest member of the Presbyterian 
Church. He died several years ago. and his 
widow is now living a retired life in West Middle- 
town, Penn. 

William M. Rea was born March 5, 1839. in 
Cross Creek township, this county, passing his 
boyhood on the home farm. He received a com 
iiion school education, and then began a course at 
Jefferson College. Canonsburg. which was inter- 
rupted by the opening of the Civil war. On Au- 
gust 21, 1862, he enlisted at Cross Creek village 
in Company K, One Hundred and Fortieth Regi 
ment, P. V. I. His first duty was the guarding 
of the railroad lines between Baltimore and Har- 
risburg, and he afterward took part in the other 
engagements in which his regiment participated. 
On May 8, 1864. at Todd's Tavern, in the battle 
of the Wilderness, he was wounded by a musket 
ball, which passed through the right ankle joint of 
his right limb. Amputation being found neces- 
sary, he was placed in Lincoln Hospital, and being 
discharged about the close of the war returned to 
Washington county in May, 18(55. Some time 
after his return home. Mr. Rea entered mercantile 
business at Pittsburgh, thence moved to Burgetts 
town, but finally selected farming as his life work, 
and moved to Cross Creek township. On Sep- 
tember 20, 1866, he was married to Martha J. 
Keys, who was born February 17. 1844. daughter 
of Joseph Keys, of Smith township. Four daugh- 
ters were born to this union: Ida M. , Josephine 
E. (both of whom are living in Canonsburg, this 
county), Anna T. and Martha V. (living at home). 
On November 23, 1875. the mother passed from 
earth, and for his second choice Mr. Rea was mar- 
ried to Nannie A., daughter of James McElroy. 
She was born October 21. 1844, in Chartiers 
township. AVashington Co. . Penn.. and the chil- 
dren of this marriage are James M.. John C. (de- 
ceived in youth). Samuel J. and William M. Some 
time after locating on the farm in Cross Creek 
township Mr. Rea moved to Mt. Pleasant town- 
ship, thence to North Strabane township, but. 
finally settled on his present home in Smith town- 
ship, where he is known as one of the most suc- 
cessful farmers of the neighborhood. He is an 
ardent worker in the Republican party, and in 
religious faith he and his family are members of 
the Raccoon Presbyterian Church. 



JJlt RTHITR B. WARD. The Ward family trace 

f/V Tne i'' lineage through four generations to 

Ip4\ one James Ward, an Englishman, who 

Jl came to America many years ago and set 

tied in Virginia, where he died leaving a 

large family. Stephen Ward, a son of this James, 

was born and reared near Martinsbnrg. Va. , where 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1181 



be was married to Hannah Thurston, and they had 
three children, namely: James, Hannah and 
Thomas. The father followed farming and stock 
raising, and in politics affiliated with the Whigparty. 
The family finally moved to Washington county, 
Penn., locating near Maiden, in East Bethlehem 
township, where the parents died, both members of 
the M. E. Church. 

Thomas Ward, son of Stephen and Hannah, was 
born February 27, 1S11, near Winchester, Va., 
and attended the schools of his native State. After 
attaining his majority, he left home and com- 
menced farming in Washington county, Penn. , 
there passing the remainder of his life, with the 
exception of six years he spent in Fayette county, 
Penn. When a young man, Thomas Ward was 
united in marriage with Elizabeth Williams, a 
daughter of John Williams, who was born October 
12, 1784, and was married in Winchester, Va., to 
Mary Thompson, who was born in March, 1789. 
Mr. and Mrs. Williams were the parents of the 
following children, their names and dates of birth 
being here given: Alfred, March 1(5. 1806; Susau, 
April 22, 1808; Daniel, January 9, 1809; Mary 
Ann, January 11, 1811; Robert," March 9, 1813; 
Thomas, January 28, 1815; Elizabeth, January 4, 
1817; John, April 6, 1820; Catherine, August 17, 
1821; Sarah J., January 2, 1823; James Knox, 
April 17, 1824; Clara E., November 14, 1826; 
Margaret, January 9, 1830. * After his removal to 
Pennsylvania the father followed teaming from 
Baltimore on the National pike. In political opin- 
ion he was a Whig and Republican, with strong 
Abolition sympathies, and in religion he was a mem- 
ber of the M. E. Church. To the union of Thomas 
and Elizabeth (Williams) Ward the following chil- 
dren were born: Mary J. (wife of Thomas Wholly), 
Melinda (wife of Daniel Linn), John W. (who en- 
listed in the 18th Regiment, P. V. C), Stephen 
(who enlisted in Company I. Second Virginia In- 
fantry), Robert, James Knox and Thomas. Mrs. 
Ward died in March, 1846, followed by her hus- 
band May 18, 1891. 

James Knox Ward was born March 31. 1844, in 
East Bethlehem township, Washington Co., Penn., 
and remained at home until March, 1865. He then 
enlisted in Company B, Second Regiment. P. V. 
C. , and served with the army of the Potomac. On 
May 10, 1866, he was married to Susannah, 
daughter of William C. Wolfe, who was born in 
Virginia, and was a son of Isaac C. Wolfe. The 
latter was also a native of Virginia, and there mar- 
ried Susanna De Haven, who bore him four chil- 
dren, viz.: William O, Joseph, Elizabeth and 
Rachel A. The father voted with the Democratic 
party, and in religious faith was a member of the 
M. E. Church. Mrs. Wolfe died January 19, 
1846. and he was laid to rest July 27, 1870. 

William C. Wolfe was born July 22, 1820, in 



Virginia, and in 1829 came with his parents to 
Washington county, Penn. ; he received his educa- 
tion in the subscription schools, and followed ag- 
ricultural pursuits. On July 1, 1841, he was 
united in marriage with Melinda J. (Small) Wood, 
who was born June 2, 1823, in Washington county, 
where they settled, and he followed teaching and 
cabinet making. In political opinion he was a 
Democrat, and in religious connection a member of 
the M. E. Church. Hischildren were Alfred D., who 
enlisted in Company I, Second Regiment Virginia 
Volunteer Infantry, and served three years; Susan 
nah (wife of James K. Ward); Joseph, who enlist- 
ed in Company D. Seventy-ninth P. V. I. ; Ann, 
wife of Herdman Maxwell Taylor; Henry W. ; Sarah 
N. ; Abram and Isaac C. The father was a Demo- 
crat in politics. 

William C. Wolfe died March 4, 1855, and was 
followed by his widow April 7, 1874. To the 
union of James Knox and Susannah (Wolfe) Ward 
five children have been born, viz.: Arthur B. , 
Thomas H, Elizabeth, William S. and Louis. 
The family have, with the exception of one year, 
passed their lives in Washington county. Mr. 
Ward affiliates with the Republican party in poli- 
tics, and in religious faith is a member and trustee 
of the M. E. Church. 

Arthur B. Ward was born February 25, 1867, 
in West Brownsville, Penn.. receiving his educa 
tion at the Southwestern State Normal School, 
California, Penn. At the age of fifteen he entered 
the store of Robert Lynch, with whom he remained 
as clerk for about two years, then served as man- 
ager until 1888, afterward purchasing the busi- 
ness, and conducting it for several years. In April, 
1891, he removed to the Hotel Arlington Building, 
having increased his old stock of goods, and added 
a large line of gents' furnishings. On August 27, 
1891, he was united in marriage with Luella, 
daughter of J. P. McCain, a resideut of California, 
Penn. Mr. Ward is actively identified with the 
Republican party, and is a member of the M. E. 
Church, 



YfOHN M. WATSON, a prominent farmer of 
North Strabane township, was born January 
rjl 31, 1833, in Chartiers township, Washington 
^^Co., Penn. His father, David Watson, was 
also a native of Chartiers township, born in 1791, 
and passed his early life on the home farm. He 
received a good common-school education, and in 
early manhood was married to a Miss Craighead, 
who bore him children as follows: Martha (de- 
ceased), Amelia (deceased), Nancy (Mrs. Alexan- 
der Henderson), Rachel (wife of William Ross), 
Belle (deceased wife of John Chambers) and 
George. For his second wife Mr. Watson was 
united in marriage with Margaret Morrison, also 



1182 



WASHIXfjTOX COUXTY. 



born in Chartiers township, this county, a daugh- 
ter of James Morrison, ami tin children born to 
this marriage were John M., Mary (Mrs. Peter 

Martin), and G -ge X. (who died in Washington 

county, aged fifty-three years). David Watson 
died at the age of lift\ two, Mrs. David Watson 
when aged eighty-four years. Mr. Watson had 
charge of the Washington turnpike for many 
years, and managed its affairs with marked sue 
cess. He was a stanch member and active par- 
tisan "f the Whig party, and was one of the most 
ardent supporters of the U. P. Church at Cross 
Roads, Chartiers township. 

John M. Watson passed his early years on the 
home farm in Chartiers township, and after the 
death of his father began life at a very early age. 
On August 18, 1862, he enlisted in Company G, 
One Hundred and Fortieth Pennsylvania Volun 
teers, and served until the close of the war; he 
was mustered out June 5, 1865. near Alexandria, 
W. Va. On November 15, ISfifi, he was married 
to Sarah J., daughter of Andrew Borland, and one 
daughter, Ida, has been born to their union. Mr. 
\\ atson is a successful business man, and owns a 
large and productive farm in North Strabane town- 
ship. He is a stanch Republican, and is always 
active in the interests of his party. He and his 
family are members of the United Presbyterian 
Church at Mt. Prospect, and he is a member of the 
Session. 



THOMAS C. SHIPLEY. Among the pro- 
gressive citizens of Hanover township is the 
a hove mentioned gentleman, a sou of Ben 
jamin Shiplev, who was a son of John 
Shipley. 
John Shipley was born about twelve miles from 
Baltimore, Md., and passed his boyhood in his na 
tive State, there receiving his early education. At 
the age of twenty-one years he came to Washing- 
ton county. Penn., and purchased a wild tract of 
laud in Smith township. He added to this from 
time to time until he had 135 acres, where a 
small log cabin was erected, which Miss Lydia 
Day consented to share. To this marriage the 
following children were born : Benjamin, (ieorge, 
John, William, Nancy, Talbert T.. Richard, Sam- 
uel, Lavina, Catherine, Rachel and Henry. Al 
though the Indians were then very numerous, 
those in their vicinity were usually of a peace- 
able disposition. John Shipley was a soldier in 
the war of 1812, and while he was defending his 
home, the brave wife followed the plow in his 
stead. He was an active worker in the Whig 
party, and in religious faith was a member of the 
M. E Church. 

Benjamin Shipley was reared on the home farm, 
and educated in the rude subscription schools, In 



1824 he was married to Nancy Colo, who was born 
in 1802, a daughter of Thomas Cole. The children 
of Benjamin and Nancy Shipley were ;is follows. 
Rachel (wile of James White), John and Nancy 
(were scalded to death when small). Thomas C. 

(our subject), Lydia (Mrs. John Frederick, of Bur- 
gettstown), Mary (widow of John Vance), Richard 
(a farmer, deceased in 1883), Talbot (a farmer, 
died in 1890), Catherine (deceased, unmarried) and 
Dallas (deceased in infancy). Mr.andMrs. Shipley 
passed their married life in Smith township, this 
county. He was a successful agriculturist, and in 
politics was first a Whig, then a Republican, He 
died in 1876, and Mrs. Shipley survived him till 
1884. Both were members of the M. E. Church, 
and are buried in the Presbyterian cemetery at 
Burgettstown. 

Thomas C. Shipley was born February 28, 1833, 
on the home farm in Smith township, this county. 
On October 24. 1861, he was married to Eleanor 
K. Proudfit, who was horn August 29, 1833, a 
daughter of John and Eliza (Lyle) Proudfit. The 
children of T. C. and Eleanor Shipley are: Eliza- 
beth Nancy (Mrs. David Riddile, of Wellsville, 
Ohio), Isa Mary (wife of Frank Hill, of Wellsville, 
Ohio), John P. (married December 28, 1891, Mary 
G. E. Sims, and to this union Thomas Earl Ship 
ley was born), Willie D. (deceased at the age of 
sixteen years) and Ella Nora (living at home). Af- 
ter their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Shipley located 
for some time on the farm in Smith township, and 
in 1863 settled in Hanover township, on the place 
where they are now residing, but which then con- 
tained all old buildings. Three years later he re- 
turned to Smith township, and in 1883 came back 
to the same farm and erected new buildings, in- 
cluding a residence and barn. Since that time he 
has resided in Hanover township, following gen 
eral farming, stock raising, aud the dairy business. 
Both he and his wife are members of the Presby 
terian Church at Florence. 



J JAMES W. BIGGER. Of the prominent, 
I prosperous and respected citizens of Robin 
son township, none are better or more favor 
ably known than the gentleman whose name 
opens this brief sketch. The sons of Erin are and 
ever have been among the leaders of all enterprises 
in which bravery, energy and enthusiasm are the 
requisite ingredients. 

About the middle of the last century, Thomas 
Bigger, a native of County Antrim. Ireland, was 
there married to Elizabeth Moore, who was born 
in the same county. The young couple decided 
that their wedding trip should be an ocean voyage. 
and accordingly they embarked for the New World 
not many days after their marriage. After land- 
ing in America they came to Pennsylvania, first 









WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1185 



locating on a piece of land near Hickory, this 
county, which belonged to George Washington but 
was theu iu court. His rights, however, were soou 
established, after which Mr. and Mrs. Bigger set- 
tled on a farm in Robinson township, which is yet 
in the family name, being now the property of 
Matthew Bigger. The Indians had not then en 
tirely left the old hunting grounds, and often com 
pellet! the adventurous pioneer to flee for life to 
Fort McDonald; but as new settlers entered, and 
the forests were cleared away, the Redmen roved 
farther west, finally leaving the pale faces in uudis 
tuilii.il possession of their homes. Eleven children 
were born to Thomas and Elizabeth ( Moure) Bigger, 
as follows: Matthew, Jane, John, James, Thomas, 
Ann, James, Samuel, Martha, Andrew and Eliza 
beth. 

Samuel Bigger waH born on the old Bigger 
homestead in Robinson township, this county, 
which is now occupied by his son Matthew. Sam 
uel passed his youth on the old place, being em- 
ployed in the usual manner of a farmer boy, and 
in early manhood married a Miss Wills, a native of 
Ireland, who bore him a large family of children, 
of whom are yet living: Thomas, Elizabeth, James 
W., Matthew, Mary J., Ann, Jennette, Martha, 
Samuel and Jane (twins); John died when he was 
about two years old. The father was a Presby- 
terian, then a Seceder, and afterward a member of 
the TJ. P. Church, in which he was an elder. In 
politics he was first a Democrat, then a Whig, 
finally a Republican. 

James W. Bigger, the second son' of Samuel 
Bigger, first saw the light of day November 30, 
1828. He remained on the old homestead during 
his boyhood and early youth, receiving his educa- 
tion in the common schools of the period, which, 
to quote the gentleman's own language, were: "Ac- 
cording to my judgment better adapted to give the 
pupil a more thorough knowledge of the branches 
taught than the schools of the present day." On 
January 1, 1857, Mr. Bigger was united in mar- 
riage with Miss Sarah H. , daughter of the late 
Richard Donaldson, a resident of Hanover town- 
ship. Children came to brighten their pleasant 
home as follows: Jennie W. , Esther Mc. , Lizzie, 
Isaac, Ida and S. W. (twins), Richard, W. M. and 
•). M. Of these, Lizzie is deceased, while the other 
children are scattered, some living near their par- 
ents, others gone far from the home nest. The 
mother died June 5, 1891. Mr. Bigger has con- 
tinued to reside on the farm where he had settled 
immediately after his marriage. He is a repre- 
sentative citizen, and in politics has ever been a 
firm advocate of the principles embodied in the 
platform of the Republican party. In religious 
faith he has for many years been a member and 
liberal supporter of the Robinson United Presby- 
terian Church. 




W. JACKSON, a rising young agricult 
urist of Cross Creek township, is a 
representative of a well-known family. 
His grandfather, Andrew Jackson, was 
born in 1785 in Cecil county, Md., and 
when ten years of age came with his parents to 
Washington county, Penn. They settled on King's 
creek, iu Hanover township, where Andrew was 
reared to manhood. 

Andrew Jackson was united in marriage in 1808 
with Elizabeth Cool, of Hanover township, who 
was born June 27, 1782, and children were born 
as follows: Mary, born April 25, 1S09; W. O, 
born November 12, 1810; Isaac, born January 1, 
1812; Elizabeth, born October 2, 1 S 1 P> ; Eli, born 
October 27, 1818; Elsie, born October 23, 1820; 
John, born September 9, 1822; James, born April 
20, 1825; and Sarah, born May 24, 1827. Of 
these the only ones yet living are James and Elsie. 
The father was a soldier in the war of 1812. 

W. C. Jackson, the second son of Andrew and 
Elizabeth Jackson, was born on King's creek, 
Hanover township, Washington Co., Penn. His 
youth was passed on the home farm and he at- 
tended the Florence Academy for several years 
He then began the study of theology under the 
tutelage of Rev. William Wallace, of Wheeling, 
W. Va. , afterward taking a course at the Alle- 
gheny Theological Seminary, graduating in 1846 
In 1842 he selected as his life companion Miss 
Martha H. Lawton, who was born May 1, 1825, 
daughter of Job T. Lawton, a native of Rhode 
Island, who came to this county with his parents 
in 1813. After graduating, Mr. Jackson preached 
as a supply at different U. P. Churches for several 
years, but never took charge of a congregation, as 
his wife could not leave her aged parents. Two 
children were born to the union of W. C. and 
Martha H. (Lawton) Jackson, namely: W. W., 
born March 19, 1844; and Mary E., born Octobei 
22, 1850, the latter of whom was married to Will 
iam Cole, a prominent hotel landlord of Burgetts 
town, Penn. In politics Mr. Jackson was a stanch 
Democrat. He die"d August 20, 1888. 

W. W. Jackson (son of W. O, and grandson of 
Andrew) was born at Wheeling, W. Va. , and 
pa-sed most of his early life in Cross Creek town- 
ship, Washington county. He attended the Cross 
Creek Academy several terms, and then entered 
Washington and Jefferson College, graduating at 
the early age of nineteen years. He afterward re- 
turned to the farm and assisted his father, who 
was unable to do much manual work, having been 
crippled by a falling tree in 1803. On September 
30, 1872, W. W. Jackson was united in marriage 
with Miss Mary Boyles, of St. Clairsville, Ohio, 
daughter of Jacob Boyles. The farm contains 105 
acres of land. In politics Mr. Jackson is a Demo- 
crat, and iu religious faith amemberof the Presby- 



118fi 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



terian Church, and of the Session at Cross Creek. 
To William and Mary E. (Jackson) Cole was 
born William A. Cole, November 22, 1868. He 
married Alice It. Crawford, of Westmoreland 
county, Penn., in 1889, and to this union the fol- 
lowing named children were born: Willa Marie, in 
L890; Alfred* Orlando, who died when one year 
old, and Alice Margie, born in September, 1892. 
William A. Cole resides at Pittsburgh, where lie is 
in the real estate business. 



fll LEXANDEll S. BERRYHILL, a citizen 

^\\ of Burgettstown who has risen unaided 

f^W from the lowest round of the ladder to a 

JJ prominent position in business and social 

life, was born August 15, 1808, in West 

Liberty, W. Va. He is a son of Alexander, and 

grandson <>f William Berryhill. 

William Berryhill was of Scotch descent and 
served as captain under Washington throughout 
the Revolution. After the war he settled near 
Greeneastle, Penn., and followed the blacksmith's 
trade some years, afterward purchasing the farm 
where his life was passed. In early manhood he 
was united in marriage with Ruth Steele, who was 
born in Ireland, coming with her parents to 
America when but one year of age. The children 
horn to William and Ruth (Steele) Berryhill were 
as follows: Alexander S., Ruth (Mrs. Noble), 
William, Samuel, Elias and Isabella (wife of Rev. 
Blackburn). Mr. Berryhill was a Federalist in 
politics, taking an active interest in the affairs of 
the county. He and his family were members of 
the Presbyterian Church. 

Alexander Berryhill, father of Alexander S., 
was born in Lancaster county, Penn., and was 
educated in the schools of the neighborhood. In 
early life he came to Uniontown, Penn., where he 
was married to Mary, daughter of Moses Linn. 
After his marriage he moved to West Virginia, 
and conducted a tanyard for some time, then 
opened a general store at West Liberty, W. Va. 
He finally sold out and became one of the pioneer 
boatmen of that vicinity, making trips from West 
Liberty, W. Va. , to Nashville, Tenn. He ex- 
changed the Northern produce for cotton, sugar 
and other articles raised in the Southern States. 
While returning from one trip, he met the first 
steamboat that was ever on the Ohio river, and 
challenged the crew for a race to Short Creek. 
They accepted, and he won the race. In 1830 he 
came to Cross Creek township, this county, where 
he made a permanent home. In politics he was 
formerly a Whig, afterward uniting with the 
Democratic party. He and his wife were members 
of the Presbyterian Church. They were the parents 
of the following children: William, Moses L., 
Alexander S., Mary E. (wife of William McKin 
ley), JameH, John, Samuel and Martha. 



Alexander S. Berryhill (the subject of this 
biography) received a common school education in 
the home district, and on April 15, 1840, was 
united in matrimony with Catherine, daughter of 
John Shipley. The young people immediately 
settled in Burgettstown, Penn., where they re- 
mained nine years, then went to Burlington, Iowa, 
being there one year, thence moved to Lancaster, 
Wis. They remained three years in the latter 
place, when the father of Mr. Berryhill died, and 
he returned home. He settled in Cross Creek, 
where he remained for some years. He then spent 
some time in Florence and at Cumberland, W. Va., 
and removed from Cumberland to Burgettstown at 
the time the railroad was being constructed. The 
railroad passed the town about half a mile north- 
east, and the station was called Cardville, by which 
it was known until the towns were incorporated as 
one, under the name of Burgettstown, in 1881. Mr. 
Berryhill built the first house in Cardville, and 
started a grocery store, continuing in this business 
until 1887, when he retired from active business 
and has since been leading a retired life. Mr. and 
Mrs. Berryhill have had the following children: 
Martha (wife of James Jackson), Mary L (Mrs. 
Simpson), Flora, Belle (formerly Mrs. Richard 
Henrich, now wife of James P. Kelso, of the Bur 
gettstown National Bank), Richana (wife W. E. 
Fisher, of Columbus, Ohio) and Ella. In religious 
faith he and his family are active members of the 
Presbyterian Church. In politics he is a Demo- 
crat, having cast his first vote for Jackson and his 
last for Grover Cleveland. In addition to the 
family of Alexander S. Berryhill above mentioned: 
Thomas M. Berryhill, son of William, Jr., and 
nephew of Alexander S., is the only surviving 
member of the Berryhill family. He resides on a 
farm near Hickory, Pennsylvania. 



El LIAS D. OWEN. Among those who have 
made farming in Morris township a thor- 
ough success, is Elias D. Owen. He is a 
son of Aaron Owen, and a grandson of 
John Owen, whose father emigrated from Wales in 
the early part of the eighteenth century, and located 
in New Jersey, where. he married, and reared a 
family of children, of whom John Owen is the oidy 
one recorded. John Owen married a Miss Pool in 
New Jersey, who bore him five children, all boys, 
as follows: Benjamin, Daniel, John, Aaron and 
Gudiah. The parents died in New Jersey, as also 
did their son John. Daniel emigrated to Ohio, 
thence to Michigan, where he died. Aaron, Ben- 
jamin and Gudiah all emigrated to Washington 
county, Penn. Benjamin came first, and located 
in Morris township, followed by Gudiah. 

Aaron Owen, father of our subject, came next, 
locating in Morris township about 1822. He was 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1187 



born in New Jersey about 1796, and there married 
Mary D. Day. He was a weaver by trade, which 
occupation lie followed for some time after coming 
to Washington county. Three children were born 
to them here — Phcebe, Lavina and Benjamin, all 
of whom are living. Phoebe, widow of Edmund 
McVay, lives in Greene county, Penn. Lavina, 
wife of John Young, lives in the same county. 
Benjamin married Julia Day, and lives near Jack 
sonville, Greene Co., Penn.; he is an elder of the 
Jacksonville C. P. Church. The father died in 
1854, and the mother in 1883. Both were Cum 
berland Presbyterians. Elias D. Owen, the eldest 
child of Aaron and Mary Owen, was born in New 
Jersey, July 24, 1819, and came to Washington 
county in 1822 with his parents at the age of 
eighteen years; he joined the Cumberland Pres- 
byterian Church at West Union and has been a 
Sabbath school teacher ever since. In 1842 he 
married Sarah Auld, born June 17, 1822, whose 
ancestors came from Ireland about the middle 
of the eighteenth century, locating in New 
Jersey, whence they moved to Washington 
county soon after 1800. After his marriage Mr. 
Owen moved to what was then known as the 
" Jolly Farm," where he has since resided. 

James E. Ray, half brother of Aaron Owen, and 
uncle of Elias Owen, was born in the'year 1807, 
and married Margaret Lenot'd. Three children 
blessed their union. The eldest, I. M. Ray, 
elected congressman in 1888, is a prominent lawyer 
in Waynesburgh, Greene Co., Penn; the second. J. 
L. Ray. a resident of Morris township, Greene Co., 
died in 1893, aged thirty-six years. His daughter 
Jane, who married John Powers, died some years 
ago. 

To the union of Elias D. Owen and Sarah Auld 
there were born two children : Caroline, the eldest, 
was born in 1813. and married Milton Robertson, 
whose death occurred April 2, 1875; Mrs. Robert 
son and children have since lived with her parents. 
Mary Ann, born 1853, married B. F. Reeves, and 
is the mother of six children. Mr. Owen, although 
well along in years, is still able to do a day's work 
on the farm, to which he gives his personal atten- 
tion. Ho is possessed of a remarkably strong con- 
stitution, having sustained on three different occa- 
sions injuries that would ordinarily have resulted 
in death. In politics Mr. Owen was a Democrat 
prior to 1884, but his views on the tariff question 
being at variance with those advocated in the plat- 
form of that year, he voted for Blaine, and has 
since been an active supporter of the principles of 
the Republican party. On his farm Mr. Owen 
gives considerable attention to sheep raising, in 
which he has been remarkably successful, his flocks 
never having, in his fifty years' experience, been 
affected with an epidemic so common in that 
section. Mr. Owen has made life a success in 



many ways, not excepting financially. He is a 
member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, 
at West Union, as is also his wife. Mr. Owen's 
grandfather, on his mother's side, was Samuel 
Day, who was born in New Jersey, and there mar 
ried Sophia Hayden, who bore him twenty-one 
children, eighteen of whom lived to maturity and 
raised families. In 1831 the family of Samuel 
Day had a reunion, there being present seventy 
five representatives. He joined the Presbyterian 
Church early in life; but when the Cumberland 
Presbyterians organized here in 1831. he joined 
the congregation of that church at Old Concord, 
becoming an active member thereof and serving as 
older for several years. He then moved to Athens, 
Ohio, with the intention of having a Cumberland 
Presbyterian Church organized there, which he 
soon succeeded in accomplishing. He died some 
time afterward in the triumph of a living faith. 



Y| AMES MARTIN is one of the progressive and 
therefore successful farmers of South Stra- 
([ JJ bane township, and is a representative of an 
^^ old pioneer family of the county. They were 
originally natives of York county, Penn.. and 
toward the close of the eighteenth century, Peter 
Martin moved with his wife and family to Wash 
ington county, settling on the farm which is now 
occupied by his descendants. He died at the age 
of eighty years, having reared a family of seven 
children. 

James Martin, a son of this early settler, was 
born in 1792, in York county, Penn., coming with 
his parents to this county when a boy. In 1821 
he was married to Mary White, who bore him chil- 
dren as follows: Peter B. , born February 4, 1822; 
Samuel, born January 24, 1824; James, born De- 
cember 12, 1820; John White (a merchant of Can- 
onsburg, this county), born January 11, 1828; 
Matthew, born December 7, 1829; Mary Jane (de- 
ceased), born September 21, 1832; Ebenezer Hen- 
derson (drowned in the Potomac river), born June 
21, 1834; Ann Elizabeth (deceased), born Novem- 
ber 2, 1837; Elizabeth Margaret, born October It). 
1839; William Henry, born September 4, 1842, 
and Thomas Jefferson, born August 28, 1847. Mr. 
Martin continued to improve his farm, in connec- 
tion with managing a sawmill, during his active 
business life. He was formerly a Whig, afterward 
a Republican, and held several political offices. 
In religion he first united with the Seceder Church, 
then joined the United Presbyterians. He died in 
1887, having been preceded by his wife in 1878. 

James Martin was reared on the home farm in 
North Strabane township, this county, and at- 
tended the common schools. He was early inducted 
into the mysteries of agricultural pursuits, and de- 
cided to devote his life to farming. He believed 



1188 



H'.l SUING TON C ■() I T A 7T 



that a knowledge of science, especially of that 
branch which pertains to agriculture, was neces- 
sary to secure the highest success as a farmer. He 
has therefore read and studied much on the sul> 
jects connected with his vocation. On November 
12, 1868, James Martin was united in marriage 
with Elizabeth, daughter of Samuel Clokey. Sam 
uel Clokey was a son of James Clokey, a native of 
County Down, Ireland, who was reared and edu 
cated in the old country, coming to America at an 
early date. He settled in Dauphin county, Penn., 
remaining there until 1812, when he moved to 
Washington county and purchased the farm now 
occupied by his son. following farming and stock 
raisiug in connection with the distilling business 
most of his life. In politics he was an active 
worker in the Whig party, and in religion was a 
member of the Seceder Church at Peters Creek, 
and assisted in organizing the Seceder Church at 
Pigeon Creek. He was the father of two chil- 
dren: Sarah (Mrs. James Herron) and Samuel. 

Samuel Clokey was born in Dauphin county, 
Penn., and came to Washington county at the age 
of eighteen years. He was married to Rebecca, 
daughter of Alexander McClure, of South Stra- 
bane township, and settled on the home farm, 
where the following children were born: James, 
Alexander, Mary J., Elizabeth (Mrs. James Mar- 
tin), Sarah (wife of John G. Clark), Samuel, Abi- 
gail, Rebecca (married to George A. Dougherty) 
and Caroline. Of this family James, Alexander, 
Samuel and Abigail are deceased. Mr. Clokey 
was formerly a Whig, and then a Republican, 
being a leader both in political and business cir- 
cles. In church connection he was first a Seceder, 
after uniting with the United Presbyterian Church 
at Pigeon Creek, in which lie was a trustee and 
leading member. His wife died in 1878, and he 
rests by her side in the cemetery at Pigeon Creek. 

James and Elizabeth (Clokey) Martin have had 
no children. He is a member and liberal sup- 
porter of the U. P. Church at Pigeon Creek. In 
politics he is an active member of the Republican 
party, though never accepting office. 



QEORGE R. DEEMS, a successful farmer of 
West Pike Run township, is a native of the 
same, born October 3, 1841,_ on the old 
homestead. The father, John Deems, was 
also a native of the county, and here learned 
the carpenter and wagon making trades. When a 
young man he was married to Mary Reynolds, a 
native of Fayette county, Penn., who bore him 
nine children, namely: Mary, wife of Lewis Duvall, 
a farmer of Hopewell township, Washington 
Co., Penn.; Martha, widow of Nickson Ailes, a 
resident of California, Penn.; Sarah J., widow of 
S W. Rogers, of Beallsville, Penn. ; George R., 



whose name opens this sketch; Margaret E., wife 
of Robert Elwood, a resident of Beallsville; Cor 
nelia, married to John D. Springle, a boat builder 
of Brownsville, Penn.; Frank, living in Ottumwa. 
Iowa; Elizabeth and Jacob R., both deceased. 
The father died soon after the birth of his young 
est child; his widow is now living, at the age .it 
seventy-seven years, with her daughter, Mrs. 
Rogers, in the village of Beallsville. 

George R. Deems was reared in the West Pike 
run township, where he received a common school 
education, and when seventeen years old learned 
the cabinet maker's trade. In 18(51 he enlisted in 
Company I, Eighth P. V. I., and participated in 
the Seven Days' Fight, the second battle of Bull 
Run, Fredericksburg, the Wilderness, and numer- 
ous other engagements. He served until the close 
of the war, then returning to Washington county 
followed his trade about five years in West Browns 
ville. On November 25, 1869, he was united in 
marriage with Emma E. Rogers, who was born 
December 12, 1846, in Washington county, Penn., 
a daughter of Samuel and Sarah F. (Crawford) 
Rogers, natives of Maryland, and the parents 
of children, as follows: Priscilla, wife of Adah 
Crouch, a farmer of West Pike Run township; 
Joseph H , a farmer of Beallsville, Washington 
county: Sarah F., married to Smith F. Scott; 
Emma E. , wife of George Deems; Mary A., de- 
ceased; and four who died in infancy. The 
father of this family was a public-spirited citizen, 
and a successful agriculturist. He died in 1890, 
having been preceded to the grave by his wife in 
1882. Both were members of the M. E. Church, 
and in politics he was a Republican. 

After their marriage George R. and Emma E. 
(Rogers) Deems located on the pleasant farm in 
West Pike Run township which is now their home. 
It contains seventy-three acres of valuable, well 
cultivated land, to which Mr. Deems devotes the 
greater portion of his time. He is identified with 
the Republican party in politics, and is deeply in- 
terested in all public matters. Mr. and Mrs. 
Deems are members of the Beallsville M. E. 
Church. 



d|OSEPH HAYBURN, a prominent represents 
! tive of one of the oldest pioneer families of 
| Donegal township, and an enterprising and 
progressive citizen of Claysville, is a native 
of Donegal township, born August 20, 1859. 
His father, James Hayburn, was also a native of 
that township, born in May, 1820. Joseph Hay 
burn, grandfather of Joseph, was born and reared 
in Ireland, and was there united in marriage with 
Margaret Laird, a native of County Donegal. The 
young people immigrated to America, and finally 
settled iu Donegal township, Washington Co., 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1189 



Penn. Their children were as follows: Alexander, 
.Mary, John, Robert, Fannie. Ada M. (Mrs. John 
Griffith), James, Joseph and Elizabeth (Mrs. Isaac 
Titus). Mr. Hayburn was always a farmer. In 
religion he was a member of the Presbyterian 
Church, and in politics he was a stanch Democrat. 

James Hayburn, father of Joseph, was reared 
and educated on the home farm in Donegal town- 
ship. In 1857 he was married to Margaret, daugh- 
ter of Alexander Reed, and the following children 
were born to them: Belle, Joseph, Jennie and Liz- 
zie. Mr. Hayburn was a successful farmer and 
progressive citizen. Politically he was a leading 
member of the Democratic party, and in religion 
was an adherent of the Presbyterian Church. Mrs. 
Hayburn died January 22, 1884, and was followed 
by her husband within the next month. 

Joseph Hayburn passed his early life in Done- 
gal township, where, June 24, 1886, he was mar- 
ried to Miss Jennie E. Griffith, and they have one 
daughter, Ethel Bernadeen, born November 27, 
1888. Mr. Hayburn lived on the farm and 
engaged in agricultural pursuits until 1891, when 
he purchased a livery business of L. D. Lindley, 
which he now conducts in company with John 
Knox. He is a member of the Presbyterian 
Church. 



J | AMES SHANNON McCUTCHEN. No citi- 
I zeu of East Bethlehem township, and for 
that matter, it may even be said, of the enl ire 
county, can boast of a wider circle of friends 
than this successful agriculturist, snch is his 
well-earned popularity. 

Hugh McCntchen, grandfather df our subject, 
when a young man emigrated from Ireland to 
America, landing in New York about the year 
L786, all he brought with him being the clothes on 
his back, a stout heart, and strong and willing 
haniis. After leading for a time a somewhat wan- 
dering life — working here and there — he finally 
settled in Fallowrield township, this county, and 
after some live years, during which time he was 
employed in various occupations, he invested his 
entire earnings in a small stock of goods, and em- 
barked in mercantile business. He became very 
successful, enjoying a wide and profitable trade 
among the pioneer families. He married a lady 
whose parents were natives of Scotland, and sev- 
eral children, all now deceased, were born to them; 
both he and his wife lived to a ripe old age, she 
preceding him to the grave some few years. Po- 
litically he was a Whig, and is remembered as 
having been an oft-sought local adviser in his 
party. The following interesting family anecdote 
is related: When Grandfather McCntchen was 
about to board the ship that was to carry him 
across the Atlantic from his native land, he and a 



brother, who had come to see him off, exchanged 
watches, each one agreeing to treasure the other's 
timepiece as a family heirloom to be handed down 
to posterity. This compact each kept faithfully: 
yet, although carefully and jealously guarded, the 
watch that came to America was stolen some years 
since, after having been "handed down" to the 
grandson, James S. McCutchen. 

Samuel McCutchen, the second son of Hugh and 
Jane McCutchen, was born, in 1798, in Fallow- 
tield township, this county, where he received a 
limited education at the subscription schools of the 
vicinity. In boyhood he learned the trade of a 
shoemaker, which he successfully followed during 
the greater part of his life, in connection with 
farming pursuits. He commenced life poor, for 
his father's estate, after being divided among 
many heirs, rendered him but little assistance. 
By dint of hard work, however, he was enabled to 
earn and save sufficient to buy a small farm, and 
being successful in his undertakings, particularly 
as a financier, and by reason of various specula- 
tions, in buying and trading laud, turning out 
profitably, he in course of time accumulated a con- 
siderable share of this world's goods. His wife, 
Melinda Furnier, was a daughter of Henry and 
Julia (Horine) Furnier, natives of Germany, who 
came to America shortly after the Revolutionary 
war, locating in Hagerstown, Md. , whence they re- 
moved to Washington county, Penn., making a 
final settlement near Belle Vernon, in Fallow- 
field township. To Samuel and Melinda Mc- 
Cutchen were born children as follows: Henry 
Erwin, who died at the age of seventeen years; 
Sarah Jane, now Mrs. John Stacker, residing in 
Monongahela City, and James Shannon. The 
mother died in 18<51, the father in 1862, he was a 
strong supporter of the principles of the Whig 
party. 

James Shannon McCutchen, the subject proper 
of this memoir, was born January 15, 1828, in 
Fallowtield township, Washington Co., Penn., and 
was two years old when his parents moved to East 
Bethlehem township, where he was reared on the 
farm, and educated at the common schools. In 
his youth he was employed as a farm assistant, 
receiving for his services from $5 to $10 per 
month. He has never used tobacco or intoxicants 
in any form, and as a result he saved his earnings, 
which he judiciously invested, and to-day is de- 
servedly well circumstanced financially. He is the 
owner of 127 acres of valuable land situated on 
the banks of the Monongahela river, within but a 
short distance of Lock No. 5, and the elegant resi 
dence thereon, together with the entire surround- 
ings, gives evidence of superior taste, prudent 
thrift and easy affluence. 

Mr. McCutchen is perhaps the most widely read 
gentleman in his vicinity, and his library contains 



L190 



ii ASHINGTOh COl NTY 



some ISO volumes of handsomely bound works 
bj eminent authors, tie is not onlj a man of 
letters, but also a traveler of do Little experience, 
his journeyings from tim»> to time baving been 
many, which, to a man of observation such as Mr. 
Mel lutohen, means a vast amount of additional in 
formation and mental pabulum. Among many 
points of interest which he has visited in the Must 
and in Canada, mav be mentioned Washington 
il>. i\ ), Now York, Boston, Montreal, Toronto, 
Niagara Falls, etc. Some three years since, along 
with a party of neighbors, be visited the "far 
West," during which tour he remained six days in 
San Francisco, was in Seattle i Wash. ), Portland 
(Ore.), St. Paul (Minn), Yellowstone Park, Hot 
Springs (Ark.), etc. Our subject is a faithful Re 
publican, and although not a politician, has been 
called upon at times to till offices of trust in his 
township, where his popularity is unbounded, 
which incumbencies he has invariably filled with 
characteristic care and natural ability. 



FvAKK -I HAMILTON, an enterprising citi 
/.on of Nottingham township, this county, 
is a son of James R. Hamilton. The latter 
was horn in ISIS, in Peters township, 
Washington county , and received n classical 
education. During his earlier years he followed 
the profession of school teaching, and being solely 

dependent upon his daily earnings for a liveli 

hood, was obliged to practice strict economy. In 
IS It) he was married to Miss Patience Morrison, a 
native of this county, and having managed to save 
a small amount of his salary, the young man 
bought a little farm in Nottingham township, this 

county, UpOD which he and his bride began their 

wedded life. They were poor in worldly goods, 
but happy and rich in the possession of health and 
love. Fortune soon began to smile upon the brave 

young OOUple who met her frowns with such cheery 
face-., and as years passed on children came to 
brighten the little home as follows: Patience B. 
(wife oi James H. Barkley), William H. L., 
Charles James Reed, John T. G., Joseph G. 1'., 
Elizabeth Ann, Margaret Elnora and Mary Jane. 

Of these the latter three are deceased. At the 

time of his death .lames R, Hamilton owned 300 
acres of land. 

Park J. Hamilton was bom October 15, 1863, 
on the home farm in Nottingham township, this 
county, attending the home schools during his 
early youth. On October I s , 1888, he was united 
in marriage with Miss Agnes J. Miller, a well 
known school teacher of Nottingham township, 
and a daughter of John Miller, a prominent agri 
oultnrist of Allegheny county, Penn. Mr. Hamil 
ton had been working with his father on the home 
place previous to ins marriage, and the young 



oouple immediately took up then- residence on the 
paternal homestead. He now owns eighty-one 
acres of the old place, which he keeps in an excel 
lent state of cultivation, and also raises a good 
grade of cattle. Two children have been born to 
this marriage, viz.: Elfra Augusta ami John Park. 



FT J. HESS was born May :i, 1848, in Fallow 
f |\ held township, Washington Co., Penn., a 
l\\ son of John Hess, who was born in 1SI7. 
JJ -* in Pennsylvania, of Dutch parents, who 
were among the earliest pioneers of that 
State. In early manhood he was united in mar 
riage with Ann Jones who was born in I S I it, in 
Fallowfield township. Washington county, of Eng 
lish parents; her father lived to the age of one 
hundred years. To the union of John and Ann 
(Jones) Hess were born eight children, of whom 
are named: William, who enlisted in the " Kino 
gold Battalion," serving three years and m\ 
months, part of the time as clerk of his regiment; 
A. J.; Mary K ., wife of ('apt, Fairfield, of Alio 
gheny county, Penn. ; Amanda, deoeased in 1844, 
wife of Thomas Teeple; Maggie J. and John E. 
The father was a leading agriculturist, and raised 
a large quantity of sheep and cattle; the farm win 
tamed eighty eight acres of very fertile land. He 
served his township in different offices, and was a 
Valued citizen. He died ill 1SS7, followed by his 
wife in 1889. 

A. J. Hess, son of John and Ann Hess, has al 
ways resided on the old place, and since the death 
of his father has lived there with his brother John 
I' 1 .. He owns forty four acres of the homestead, 
and devotes bis principal attention to its oultiva 
tiou. Politically he is an advocate of Republican 
principles, and in religion is a member of the 
Methodist Church. On January 27, 1ST I, he was 
united in marriage with EmmaS. Teeple, a native 
of Carroll township, Washington Co., IVnn. 

Their union has been blessed with three sous and 

two daughters, namely: Charles W., Aloinous J.. 
Elizabeth L., Angelia P. and Howard Floyd. 



dOHN H. HAMILTON, one of the successful 
stock raisers in Washington county, is a sou 
of Robert C. and Mary (Young) Hamilton. 
and was born in 1849, On the home farm in 
Washington county. From earliest boyhood 
he evinced an unusual fondness for the animals 
on the farm, and soon developed rare judgment 
in the care of stock. lb' attended the common 
schools of the neighborhood, acquiring as well a 
good practical education, thus laying deep the 
foundations of a life which has been most useful 
and prosperous. On January II. 1 NSti, he married 
Emma L, the only daughter of P. H. and Eliza- 



ii iSHJNOTON COUNTY. 



I I'M 



both Stevenson, of Allegheny county, Penn Two 
daughters bavo been born to theii anion, namely 

Mabel Paul uml Diary Elizabeth 

\it Hamilton is a mombei ol the Delaine A 

mil ( Sheen Breeders, serving thai organization 

:i , corresponding si oretarj , and bis principal ntten 
1 1 < ,n is devoted to thi - branch of stock raising In 
politics he votes with the Democratic party, and in 
religious faith he is o membei of Hi" Presbyti rian 
( Ihurob "l ( lanonsburg 



T. HI'; MAIt'l'IN FAMILY wore nativa oi 
Yoi Ii ( ii v, Penn , and in i be lal tei pari 
of the eighteenth eenturj Petei Martin 
came to Washing! lounty, Peon , with 
his wife and family, iind settled on the farm 

where the remi lei of his life was passed, and 

which is the present home oi his descendants He 
died al the age "I eighty years, and r< I bi ide 
his wife, who bore him seven children, nil of whom 
are now deceased, 

James Martin, ion of Peter Martin, was born in 
1702, in Void county, Penn., and came with his 
purents to Washington county, where, in 1821, he 
was united In marriage with Mary Whiti (who 
was born in 1800), daughtei of Samuel Whiti 
ami she bore him the following children Petei 
It., born February I, 1822 (deceased); Samuel, 

boi n January 24, 1824 Jai , born I 'scomber 

12, 1826; John White (now it merchant in I lanon 
burg, Hum county), born January II, 182 
Matthew, born December 7, I829j MaryJane(de 
oeti md at the ago of twenty two), born Septembei 
21, 1882; Ebenezer Henderson (drowned in the 
Appomattox river), born June 21, 1884; Ann 
Elizabeth (deoeased in 1888), born Novembei '. 
1887; Elizabeth Margaret, born Ootoboi 10, I Ifl 
William Henry, born Septembei I, 1842, and 
Thomas Jefferson, born August 28, 1847, Of 
these children Ebenezer Hendei ion enlisted in the 
Civil war, Company Q, I I'M.b p, v. [,,andaftei 
ward became a member of the Signal I lorps Mi 
Martin cleared and improved his farm, and, with 
the aid of his sons, also managed b sawmill 1 1 « « 
whh actively interested in politios, having first been 
a Whi^, and after the formation "l that part} be 
came a Republican II" held several polities! 
offices, and in early manhood was oaptain of o 
militia company, [n religion he was formerly a 
member of the Seoeder Churob, afterward uniting 
with the United Presbyterian Church, He died 
ni the age of eighty five yeai i, following hm wife, 
who died in 1878 in her seventy eighth year, 

\r inn ,\ Mabtix, son of James and Mnry 
(White) Martin, grew to manhood on the home 
in, in in South Strabane township, Washington 
county, and received his earliesl education in an 
old log ichool bouse, whioh whh built and furnished 



in ii,r most primitive mannei the largo chimney 
ai ,,,,,. end, 'i' ii ied papei foi « indows, n rough 

punol floor, the writing desk fastened to the 

wall, and tho rude seal mpportod by wooden pi 
A 1 1 , ' i leaving sohool, young Matthew workod on 

Hi, farm and n i ted bis rati i the sawmill 

ll,. , , I,, ,w o prosperous man He votes the Ii" 

publican ticket, and has filled the posil I supei 

, i ioi ol n iads i hreo oi foui tei ms 

William 1 1 1 ih M itis (brol hei of Mai i hi w I 
was married January 17, I 87, to Annie M. Thome, 
a resident of North Strabane town hip, this count} 
and they have I wi i ohildren A bbia El tii (wifi 
of Rev, William .Ion,, a, pastoi of " Presbyterian 
Church ni Pittsburgh), and James Willis William 
II Martin is now a school direotoi of his town 
ni, 1 1 1, an, l in religion n mombei ol the C P 
i Iburch, of whioh be i an oldei I a 181 1 1 i li" 
brol liei ■ reoted theii pro eel handsome dwelling 

Tl farm c i ol ovei 100 acres of land, sil u 

ai, .1 five mill ettsl ol Wa bington I igh, in 

South Strabane township, whioh is one of the mo I 
comfortable and cosy homes in the vicinity, Tho 
brothers devote a groat deal of time to itock rai 
ing, and now own nboul oigbl hundred fine Black 
Top Merino sheep Tina farm was patented to 
Jacob Sbivoly, in 1786 The patentee sold to 
Peter Minim in 181 I, and il has been in tho Mai 
in, fmnii y lince i inii year 



T;iloiYlAS WEAVER, a native of Washington 
county, and early settlei of Cecil township 
ii, i in, eldest "on of John, and gi and if 
Thomas Dill Weavei The Weavei familj 
are of Welsh desoont, and tract theii settli 
ment in Pennsylvania to the time of William Penn 
Thomas Dill Weavei was born in Chestei county, 
Penn , and there married to Jane linn, ion, who 
came with hei parents from Ireland to Chestei 
county, Penn., at the age ol seven years, A r i < • , 
lb,' birth of their third child tho young couple 
came with pack hoi ei to Washington county, 
Penn., locating at Oanonsburg, where both died 
many yeai agi i 

John Weaver, a son of this pioneer couple, was 
born in Chestei county, Penn., having come wit.li 
In:, parents to Obartiera township, this oounty, 
when but seven years of age. He grew to man 

l ,| in this county, and learned the trade of a 

.I,,,,,- mason When a young man bo selected a 
life companion in the person of Mary McMillan, a 
native oi North Strabane township, daughtei of 
Di John and Catherine (Brown) McMillan. Thi 
parents were born in Chester county, Penn., com 
ing to thi county in an early day, and locating in 
North Strabane township, The fathei was pastoi 
of the < Ihartiei Pro ibyterian Church foi fiftj 
yourH, uIho the founder of Jefferson College", II" 






1192 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



died in 1828, having been preceded by the mother 
in 1818. 

John and Mary (McMillan) Weaver made a per- 
manent home near Canonsburg, Fenn., and were 
members of the Chartiers L'resbyterian Church. 
The children born to this union were as follows: 
Thomas (whose name opens this sketch), Catherine 
(.Mrs. Patterson White, of Paxton, 111.) and Jane (a 
twin, wife of John Jeffrey, of Jefferson county, Ohio), 
Sarah (deceased at the age of seventeen years), 
Mary (deceased in 1887, wife of Wilson Lesnett, 
Allegheny county, Penn.), John (died in Canons 
burg), Margaret (Mrs. John Perry, of Missouri), 
Nancy (married to William McNutt, of Canons 
burg) and Samuel (deceased iu Canonsburg). 
Thomas Weaver was born April 16, 1811, in Char- 
tiers township, this county, being educated in the 
subscription schools of the home district. On 
March 17, 1835, he was united in marriage with 
Elizabeth, daughter of Frederick nad Isabella 
(Wilson) Lesnett, early pioneers of Allegheny coun- 
ty, Penn., where their lives were passed. After 
their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Weaver resided in 
Chartiers township until ISIS; then bought a par- 
tially improved farm of 10(3 acres in Cecil town- 
ship, of which he yet retains eighty six acres, well 
improved and cultivated. He votes with the Dem- 
ocratic party, and in religion both are members of 
the Presbyterian Church at Canonsburg, of which 
he has for many years been a ruling elder. They 
are the parents of the following named children: 
(1) John, born December 25, 1835 (a physician 
and surgeon of Canonsburg, was united in mar 
riage with Belle A. Boyce, December 10, 1803, and 
died March 18, 1872. The children of this union 
are Lizzie B., Thomas McKeag (died in childhood), 
Mary J., Thomas C. and John B., twins, the lat- 
ter of whom died January 10, 1892); (2) Fred 
erick, born January 14, 1838 (farmer ami dairy 
man, living in Cecil township, was united in mar- 
riage with Sarah A. Henry, February 17, 1881. 
They are the parents of the following named chil- 
dren: Martha M. , Ida E., Thomas V. and William 
McO); (3) Mary, bora February 9, 1840 (wife of 
James M. White, of Cecil township, married March 
10. 1866); (4) Thomas, born November 5, 1841 
(preferred to follow the profession of a teacher, but 
entered the One Hundred and Fortieth Regiment P. 
V.I. , and died as a prisoner of war at Louisanna Hos- 
pital, Va., November 27. 1863); (5) Isaac, (6) Isa- 
bella, and (7) Calvin (all died in childhood); (S) Isaac 
Calvin, born June 29, 1849 (farmer and mechanic, 
living iu Cecil township, was united in marriage 
with Mary J. McLaughlin, October 10, 1876, and 
died December 25, 1890. The children of this 
union are Mary E., Fred R., Annie B., Alice L., 
Thomas D. , Olive M. and Francis J.); (9) Samuel 
\\ '., born January '.•. 1853 (a physician and sur- 
geon of Oregon, was united in marriage with Alice 



Grim, November 1, 188S. The children of this 
union are Francis and Grey Grim); (10) Frank 
Ritchie, born August 17, 1855 (farmer, living in 
Cecil township, was united in marriage with Sarah 
J. McNary, August 9, 1892). 



AMUEL SCOTT, a leading and representa- 
tive citizen of Smith township, is a son of 
Finley Scott, and a grandson of Abraham 
Scott, who was born and reared in Mary 
land, and when a young man (about the year 17SO) 
came to Washington county with his brother Al 
exander, settling near Raccoon, Robinson town 
ship. Here he purchased a wild tract of land, 
where the remainder of his active life was passed 
in agricultural pursuits. He married Jane, a 
sister of John Finley (the founder of Finleyville), 
and reared the following children: Rachel (Mrs. 
James Russell), Mary (wife of Thomas Fletcher), 
Ann (married to James Kerr), Jane (wife of David 
White), Elizabeth (Mrs. William Scott), Susan 
(married to John McBride), Samuel, Finley and 
Holland. Abraham Scott was a Democrat in poll 
tics, and in religion a member of the Presbyterian 
Church at Raccoon. 

Finley Scott was born in 1800, in Robinson 
township, and educated in the schools of the neigh 
borhood of his home. In 1822 he married Mar- 
garet, daughter of James Stephenson, of Smith 
township. The young people made their first 
home after marriage on a farm in Robinson town- 
ship, this county, remaining there a few years, 
when they rented a neighboring farm, afterward 
purchasing a place in Smith township, where they 
lived twenty years, and finally moved to the home 
where the remainder of their lives was passed 
The children of this couple were Ann, Robert K. , 
James, Samuel, Finley, John, Levi, Jane F. (Mrs. 
William Cowan), and Margaret (wife of Thomas 
Akleson). Mr. Scott was the architect of his own 
fortune, and owned 450 acres of laud at the time 
of his death, which occurred April 5, 1878. He 
was a Democrat, and held various township offices. 
In church connection ho was first a member of the 
Associate Reformed Church, in which he was an 
elder, afterward uniting with the U. P. Church at 
Burgettstown. He and his wife are buried in the 
United l'resbyterian cemetery. 

Samuel Scott was born August 13, 1829, on the 
home place in Robinson township, and came with 
his parents to Smith township, where he was 
reared and educated, receiving a country school 
education. On January 31, 1878, lie married 
Mary M., daughter of John Ross, and she has 
borne him children as follows: Margaret J., Wal- 
ter S. , Martha A. and Samuel O. Mr. Scott was 
an Old line Democrat, but since the organization 
of the party has been a Republican; he has held 











^y^yM^c^ ^ye^W 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1195 



various township offices, ami served three years as 
county auditor. He and his family are members 
df the United Presbyterian Church at Burgetts 
town, of which he has been trustee for many years, 
and has contributed liberally to the cause. Fur ;i 
time he taught school in Cross Creek, Smith town 
ship, and Robinson township. 



ACHARIAH BAKER is descended from a 

Quaker family, whose characteristic spirit 
of honor and morality is still manifested in 
the lives of the present generation of that 
name. 
Nathan Baker was a resident of New Jersey, and 
lived near Philadelphia for several years, finally 
removing with his family to Chester county, Penn. 
Afterward he purchased a farm of 150 acres in 
Washington county, near Fredericktown, where he 
managed a mill, drove stock and carried on the 
work of the farm. His first wife was Elizabeth 
Baker, of New Jersey, and their children were 
Aaron, Nehemiah, David, Joseph, Nathan, Enoch, 
Mrs. Lydia Townsend and Mrs. Mary Linton. 
Alter the death of the mother of this family, Mr. 
Baker married a widow, Mrs. Jordan, who bore 
him the following children: William, Israel, 
Mahlon and Mrs. Hannah Rejester. Soon after 
Mr. Baker came to Washington county he went to 
Baltimore, Md., with stock, and while there was 
taken sick and died; this occurred in 1803, and he 
was buried beside his first wife. 

Joseph Baker, son of Nathan, was born July 9, 
1780, in the State of New Jersey, and passed his 
early youth at home, attending the rate schools, 
and assisting in the farm duties. When seventeen 
years of age, his father died, and he then learned 
the carpenter's trade of Spencer McKay, which he 
followed many years. He first purchased the 
Miller farm, comprising thirty acres, and in L830 
bought the place which is now the property of his 
son Zachariah, and here passed the remainder of 
his life. On January 1, 1818, he was united in 
marriage with May Corwin, of Amwell township, 
who was born November 1, 1797, and the results 
of this union were the following children: Eunice, 
born November 15, 1818; Alpheus, born May 27, 
1 82 I ; Stephen, born June 8, 1824; Sophia, born 
September 29, 1826 (deceased August 9, 1840); 
Aseuath, born August 22, 1829; Enoch, born April 
5, 1832; Zachariah, born December 19, 1835; 
Ruth, born November 11, 1*837; and David, born 
August 20, 1842. Mr. Baker was a successful 
business man, and his property represented the 
result of his own integrity, economy and persever- 
ance. Politically he was formerly an Old line 
Whig, afterward becoming a Republican. He 
and his wife were members of the Baptist Church 
at Mount Vernon. He died July 22, 1803, after a 
long and useful life. 



Zachariah Baker, son of Joseph, was born on 
the farm in Amwell township, where his entire life 
has been passed. In his boyhood days he attended 
the district schools, but at the age of twenty-one 
he began working by the month, continuing in 
that way several years. On August 22, 1862, he 
enlisted at Amity in the One Hundred and Fortieth 
P. V. I., remaining in the service until July 6, 
1S65. He participated in the battles of Gettys- 
burg, Auburn Heights and Spottsylvania Court 
house, in which latter engagement he was 
wounded. On December 21, 1865, he was united 
in marriage with Rosa X. Voorhes, who was born 
March 6, 1839, near Amity, in Amwell township, 
a daughter >>f A. W. and Mary Voorhes; the other 
children in her father's family were Nelson, born 
February 27, 1829; Samuel, born June 12, 1830; 
Jane, born March 21, 1832; Albert, born Decem- 
ber 26, 1833; Margaret, born October 16, 1835; 
Nancy, born May II. L837; Rose A. born March 
6, 1839; Julia (Mrs. Swiggler), born February 4, 
1841; Elizabeth, boru August 24. 1842; Mary, born 
.March 24, 1844; Andrew, born March 28, 1845; 
and Peter, born February 28, 1847. 

The record of the children of Mr. and Mrs. 
Zachariah Baker is as follows: Sophia Jane, born 
October 19, 1866, is the wife of Joseph Tucker, of 
Amity; Victoren, born July 25, 1868, died Sep- 
tember 14, 1869; Elizabeth Ann was born January 
11, 1S74; William Horner, born December 22, 
1879, died November 16, 1880. Mr. Baker has 
been a successful business man, and is a highly es- 
teemed citizen. He is a zealous worker in the Re- 
publican party, and he and his family are all 
members of the Methodist Church at Amity. 



IfSAAC C. PATCH is a son of William Patch, 
i who was born June 1, 1820, in Washington 
i county, Perm., and when a young man was 
married to Annie E. Clemens. They moved to 
Triadelphia, W. Va. , in 1854, but after eight years 
returned to this county, and are now residing in 
Allegheny, Penn. Their children were born as 
follows: Alexander M. , Isaac O, William E., 
George A. O, Lizzie M., Katie B., Alice A., Birney 
M. , and Ralph C. Alexander M. graduated at 
West Point in 1876; lost his leg at Fort Brown, 
Tex., and is now a merchant at Cornwall, Penn. 
William E., Katie B. and Birney M. are dead. 
George A. C. is engaged in oil and gas drilling. 
Lizzie M. married Albert Boone, and lives in Alle- 
gheny, Penn.; Alice A. and Ralph C. live with 
their parents. 

Isaac C. Patch was born January 19, 1856, in Tri- 
adelphia, W. Va. , and when fifteen years of age 
began to learn the blacksmith's trade in his father's 
shop. This business he has since followed with 
a full measure of success. In 1872 the family 






1196 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



moved from Claysville to Houstonville, Penn. , 
whore Isaac C. and George A. C. still reside. On 
February 10, 1886, Isaac C. Patch was united in 
marriage with Jennie, daughter of James and 
Ellen Ferris. There were born to him the fol- 
lowing named children: Anna Mazie, Emma Elsie, 
William Clark and Albert Boon. 




,\ILLIAM J. MATHEWS, for many years 
a leading merchant of Washington, was 
born in Washington county, Penn., No- 
vember 10, 1817. His early home was in 
the country a few miles from Noblestown, 
in this State. Here he spent the first twenty years 
of his life, gathering what education he could at 
the school in the neighborhood, and at the same 
time forming habits of industry by assisting his 
father and only brother in a flouring mill. The 
death of his mother broke up the home. His 
brother John was married and became a farmer in 
Noblestown, taking the father with him. 

William J. Mathews, the subject of this sketch, 
came to Washington and entered the dry-goods 
store of C. M. Reed, Sr., who was then in busi- 
ness on the corner of Main and Wheeling streets, 
where the Pittsburgh store is now. Here he 
served several years as a clerk, and, when Mr. Reed 
sold his interest in the house, the firm became 
known as that of Chambers & Mathews. This 
partnership continued a harmonious and success- 
ful one for twenty live years, when failing health 
decided both members to retire. The transfer of 
the business was just about to be made when 
death called Mr. Matkews from his earthly labors. 
He died suddenly of pneumonia, November 30, 
1N74, aged fifty seven years and twenty days. He 
was married in 1860 to Frances S. Pelletrean. of 
Southampton, N. Y. , who graduated from the 
Washington Seminary in 1849. She, her three 
sons and one daughter, survive him. While Mr. 
Mathews' life may in some ways be called unevent- 
ful, his was one of those sterling characters which 
are ever to be held in high esteem. Beginning 
life a poor boy with few opportunities for mental 
improvement, he became, because of hard work, 
scrupulous honesty and strict integrity, a prosper- 
ous man. At the same time, as well as being 
"diligent in business," he found time to cultivate 
the higher interests of his being. He joined the 
Presbyterian Church early in the pastorate of Rev. 
J. I. Brownson, D. D., and became by a consistent 
diiily life a witness for Christ. He was a trustee 
in the church, and at a meeting held December 4, 
1874, the following action was taken in relation to 
his death: 

William J. Mathews, whose death we are called upon 
to record, died November 30, 1874. He had been a 
trustee for four vears, the confidence "I the congrega 



tiou being manifested by his election annually from 
1870 to 1874. Iu the discharge of the duties of the office 
he was conscientious and faithful, taking a deep interest 
in all matters pertaining to the business of the congrega- 
tion, and advocating libera] measures for the promotion 
oi the welfare of pastor and people. During a residence 
in the community for a period of thirty years he main- 
tained the character of an upright, honest citizen. The 
trustees bear cheerful testimony to his uniform courtesy 
and kindness in his intercourse with them and to his 
consistent character as a member of the church. They 
direct a copy of this minute to be furnished to Ids widow 
with the assurance of their sympathy in her bereave 
ment. (Signed by) M. II. Ewing, C.M. Reed, A. 3. Baird, 
A lex Wilson. 



ffERRY MYERS was born December 29, 1837, 
and is a son of Henry Myers, who was born 
rjj in 1807. In 1832 Henry Myers was united 
■-— in marriage with Mary Ann Myers, who was 
born in 1812. They reared a family of four- 
teen children, twelve of whom are now living, viz.: 
Hiram, a farmer of Somerset township, married 
to Miss Sarah Ann Wilson; Ursula, married to 
Christian Hootman, an agriculturist of Nottingham 
township; Elizabeth, married to William Keenan, 
an agriculturist of Fallowrield township; Jerry, 
married to Sarah Rainey; Abner, farming in 
Somerset township, married to Miss Mary Horner; 
William, a farmer of North Strabane township, 
married to Eliza J. Leyda; John, a stock dealer, 
of Castle Shannon, Allegheny county, married to 
Dora West; Anderson, an agriculturist of Somer- 
set township, married toLucinda Huffman; Jacob, 
an agriculturist of Somerset township, married to 
Josephine Red; Mary J., married to Linsey Heth- 
erington, a farmer of Somerset township; Henry, 
an agriculturist of Somerset township, married to 
Isabelle Crouch; Sarah A., married to Alva Leyda, 
a farmer of Somerset township. The mother of 
this family died May 16, 1892. She was a member 
of the Pigeon Creek Presbyterian Church. The 
father is now in his eighty-sixth year, and is living 
at the old homestead; he is a member of the Pres- 
byterian Church at Pigeon Creek. 

Jerry Myers received his early education in the 
common schools of Somerset township, this county. 
In 1862 he enlisted in Company E, Twenty-second 
Pennsylvania Calvary, under Capt. J. T. Chess- 
rown, and took part in all the principal battles, 
and many skirmishes, of the West Virginia cam 
paign, serving until the close of the war. In 1865 
he returned home and resumed his agricultural 
duties. On March 8, 186(5, he was united in mar- 
riage with Miss Sarah Rainey, who was born 
November 11, 1838, in Somerset township, this 
county, daughter of William and Mary (Gamble) 
Rainey. William Rainey was born in 1805, and - 
in early life was married to Mary Gamble, who 
was born in 1813; they reared a family of nine 
children, six of whom are now living, viz. : Jane M. 
(wife of George Adams, a fanner of Page county, 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1191 



Iowa), Sarah (Mrs Jerry Myers), Levi G. (a farmer 
of Somerset township), Eunice E. (married to 
George Young, an agriculturist of Somerset town- 
ship), Minerva (wife of Charles Floyd, also an 
agriculturist of Somerset township) and George 
M. (a stock dealer, of Somerset township). The 
father of this family died in 1886. He was a 
member of the Pigeon Greek Presbyterian Church. 
The mother is uow in her eightieth year, and is liv- 
ing with her daughter, Mrs. Floyd. Slie is a mem 
ber of the Presbyterian Church at Pigeon Creek. 
Jerry and Sarah (Itainey) Myers have had live 
children, viz.: Harry A., born August 1, 1870; 
Jennie G., born November 10, 1872; Pearl G, 
born December '2(5, 1880; William (deceased) and 
one that died in infancy. Mr. Myers is a progress 
ive citizen, rapidly rising to prominence in public 
and business life, and taking an active interest in 
all movements tending to elevate or improve the 
condition of the community. He owns a fertile 
farm of 247 acres, the resources of which are de- 
veloped to their utmost capacity. He and his 
wife are members of the Pigeon Creek Presbyterian 
Church. 

JOHN CUNNINGHAM is a well known resi- 
w I dent of Donegal township, and, like man} of 
\jl our most successful and honored citizens, he 
v is a native of the fair "Emerald Isle." His 
father, Peter Cunningham, was burn in 1799, in 
County Down, Ireland, and in early life learned 
thu weaver's trade, which he followed but a short 
time. He then became a farmer, and also dealt 
very extensively in stock. He was married to 
Dorothea Wilkinson, who was born in the year 
1812, also a native of County Down, Ireland, and 
to them were born the following children: John, 
Eliza, George, Thomas, Peter, Ellen, Sarah and 
Abigail, all of whom passed their lives in Ireland, 
with the exception of John. The father died in the 
year 1844, and was followed by the mother in 1863. 

John Cunningham, the eldest son in the above 
mentioned family, was born July 24, 1829, in 
County Down, Ireland. He learned the trade of 
weaver during his boyhood, but never followed it. 
His education was obtained in the schools of the 
country, and he remained at home until April 12, 
1849, when he resolved to seek a fortune in the 
New World. Embarking at Belfast on the vessel 
" Agitator " (so named for Daniel O'Connell, the 
great Irish agitator), the ardent youth sailed to Amer- 
ica, and after a voyage of six weeks and live days 
landed at Philadelphia. He then went to Pitts- 
burgh by way of canal boat and rail, but work 
being poor, he remained there only a short, time, 
and soon came to Washington county, Penn. The 
first man he worked for after leaving Pittsburgh 
was Isaac Hodgens, of Taylorstowu, with whom 
he remained one month, being treated very kindly, 



and receiving $10 for his services. From there 
he went to James Campsey, an extensive land- 
owner, with whom he remained fourteen years. 
On September 17, 1863, he was united in marriage 
with Margaret J. Heyburn, who was born in 1840, 
daughter of Alexander Heyburn, and they have had 
children as follows: John (living with his parents, 
is a speculator), Mary Jane (deceased in infancy), 
George (residing at. home), Joseph (living at 
home), Amanda (also living with her parents) and 
Margaret Jane (deceased in infancy). The mother 
of these children died December 25, 1879, and for 
his second wife Mr. Cunningham was married, 
December 29, 1885, to Mary Ann Heyburn, who 
was born in 1847, a sister of his first wife. They 
have had no children. Mr. Cunningham passed 
the first few years of his married life as a tenant 
on t he farm of his former employer, and finally 
saved enough money to purchase a home. In 
1!S72 he bought and moved upon a farm which was 
located near Atchison, Donegal township, this 
county, and remained there till 1881. He then 
moved onto a part of the " Heyburn " tract, lying 
three miles northwest of Claysville, in Donegal 
township, and has since resided on this farm, 
which belongs to his wife. Mr. Cunningham has 
been the architect of his own fortune. He was 
but a poor Irish hoy when he first landed on 
American soil, and by dint of industry and enter- 
prise has accumulated a competency. In religious 
faith he is a Presbyterian, and with his family he 
enjoys the esteem of the community. In political 
life he has always been a Republican. The fol- 
lowing is from the pen of Mr. Cunningham: 

Ireland my country I'm mm going to leave yen, 

I'll bid you farewell for a while; 
To a far distant country I'm new going to wander, 

Where wild beasts and savage are king. 
But Erin my country I'll still think upon you; 

And of your sweet vales I will sing. 

When far distant from you I will think on yen still, 
Your sweet purling streams and your daisj clad hill. 
The ship she is waiting with Sags waving high, 
Which bears me from Ireland my fortune to try. 

But ne'er will I forget till the day I shall die, 
The pleasures I spent there when I was a boy. 

In the old County Down, near the town of Hillsborough, 

Where my youthful days I have spent; 
When I think upon them my heart tills with Borrow, 

Alas, for their sakes I lament; 
But I hope that kind Providence will still be my guide, 
And conduct me safe over the ocean so wide 
With a full flowing glass on the ether side. 
I will drink to Old Erin the Green. 

Farewell to the land where the shamrocks do flourish; 
Farewell to its green Bowery vales; 

Farewell to the green w Is, where the songsters chant 

chorus, 
And tell to the warblers their tales. 

.May the bright sun of heaven still shine round your isle; 
And peace and prosperity still on yon smile; 

This is the prayer of your wandering exile, 

In a land far from Erin the Green. 






1198 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



h 



EVI SCOTT (deceased) was a son of Finley 
and grandson of Abraham Scott, the latter 
of whom was born and reared in Maryland, 
and when a young man came to Pittsburgh, 
Penn., afterward settling in Washington county 
with his brother Alexander. He purchased a wild 
tract of land near Raccoon postoffice, Robinson 
township, this county, where his life was passed in 
agricultural pursuits. He was married to Jane, a 
sister of John Finley (the founder of Finleyville), 
and reared the following children: Rachel (Mrs. 
James Russell). Mary (wife of Thomas Fletcher), 
Ann (married to James Kerr), Jane (wife of David 
White), Elizabeth (Mrs. William Scott), Susan 
(married to John McBride), Abraham, Finley r , 
Holland and Samuel. The father was a Democrat 
in politics, and in religion a member of the Presby- 
terian Church at Raccoon. 

Finley Scott was born in 1800, in Robinson 
township, and educated in this county. In 1822 
he was married to Margaret, daughter of James 
Stephenson, of Smith township. The young peo- 
ple first settled on a farm in Robinson township, 
and remained there a few years, when they rented 
a neighboring farm, afterward purchasing a place 
in Smith township, where they lived twenty years, 
and finally moving to the home where the remain- 
der of their lives was passed. Their children were 
Ann, Robert K., James, Samuel, Finley, John, 
Levi, Jane F. (Mrs. William Cowen) and Margaret 
(wife of Thomas Akleson). Mr. Scott was the 
architect of his own fortune and owned 450 acres 
of land at the time of his death, which occurred in 
1870. He was a Democrat, and held various 
township offices. In religious connection he first 
united with the Associate Reformed Church, in 
which he was an elder, and afterward became a 
member of the U. P. Church at Burgettstown. 
Both he and his wife are buried in the U. P. 
cemetery. 

Levi Scott was born January 18, 1837, in Smith 
township, on the farm now occupied by his widow. 
He remained on the home place, and attended the 
common schools of the neighborhood until seven 
teen years of age, when he came with his parents 
to a farm a short distance north of his birthplace. 
In August, 1802, he enlisted in Company C, 
Twenty-second P. V. C, in which he was a bugler, 
remaining until the close of the war, when he was 
honorably discharged. After the war the young 
soldier returned to his home in Washington county, 
and on June 5, 1867, was married to Lizzie J. Lee, 
who was born August 10, 1844, daughter of Robert 
and Elizabeth (Hindman) Lee. Mrs. Scott had 
two sisters, Mrs. Mary L. Pry, and Miss Nannie 
H. Lee, who died February 24, 1892, and was 
buried beside her father and mother in the old 
cemetery at ('n>ss Creek village. 

After his marriage Levi Scott settled on the old 



home farm. He was a member of the United 
Presbyterian Church at Burgettstown, and was one 
of the building committee who superintended the 
erection of the handsome edifice which is their 
present house of worship. In politics he was an 
influential worker in tin- Republican party. On 
June 2, 1883, he was working at a portable 
sawmill near Rankin's Mill, in Mt. Pleasant 
township, and by some accident was thrown be- 
tween the huge saw logs, being instantly killed. 
He was buried in the United Presbyterian cemetery, 
and left a widow and one son, Robert Lee, who was 
born June 19, 1868. Since the death of her hus 
band Mrs. Scott and her son have continued to re 
side on the home place, upon which Mr. Scott had 
erected one of the most handsome farm residences 
in Smith township. The farm work is carried cm 
by the son and his assistant, Mr. B. D. Malone, a 
faithful and energetic man, who has been in the 
employ of the Scott family for twenty years. 




JLLIAM C. IRWIN. Prominent among 
the enterprising and prosperous agricult- 
\f/ urists of Canton township is the subject 
— of this brief biographical sketch. He 
was born May 6, 1830, in Canton town- 
ship, Washington Co., Penn., a grandson of David 
Irwin, who was among the earliest settlers of the 
county, but the particulars of whose emigration 
are unknown. However, the family settled in 
Canton township, where they at once began clear- 
ing up and improving a farm. 

James Irwin, son of the old pioneer, David Ir- 
win, was married October 8, 1818, to Margaret 
Smith, who died July 6, 1819. On March 1, 1821, 
Mr. Irwin married Nancy Clark, who bore him the 
following named children: Margaret, Ann, Jane, 
Mary, William C, Martha, David, Nancy and 
Adeline. The mother died October 15, 1860, the 
father December 12, 1854. Mr. Irwin was an 
energetic worker in the Democratic ranks, and an 
active member of the United Presbyterian Church 
at North Buffalo, where he and his wife lie buried. 

William C. Irwin, son of James and Nancy 
(Clark) Irwin, passed his early youth and manhood 
upon the home farm, and was educated at the 
public schools of the neighborhood of his birth 
place. On October 19, 1854, he was married to 
Mary It., daughter of Leet and Elizabeth Dye, and 
immediately brought his bride to the home of his 
boyhood. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Irwin has 
been blessed with the following named children: 
Florence A. (deceased), James D. , John L.. Laura 
A., Leman N., William M., Edith E. , Asa C, Minnie 
J. (deceased), Mary Etta, Charles Milton, Nellie 
S. and Clifford T. The mother was called from 
earth December 12, 1S86. Since early manhood 
Mr Irwin lias been engaged in agricultural pur 






ructstsr^ 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1201 



suits, and he now owns one of the best farms in 
Canton township. He is a member of the Second 
Presbyterian Church at Washington, with which 
he has long been identified. Politically he is a 
Democrat, active and zealous in* the interests of 
his party. 



d J ARIES PATTERSON, a prominent citizen of 
I Chartiers township, was born February 20, 
] IS28, in Allegheny county, Penn., and is a 
grandson of John and Mary (Miller) Patter- 
son, natives of Ireland, who came to Amer 
ioa, first settling near Wilmington, Del. In 180(5, 
with one horse and a wagon to transport their 
worldly goods and themselves, the family moved 
to a partially improved place in Allegheny county. 
Penn., where John Patterson died, his widow sur- 
viving him many years. 

Robert Patterson, son of John and RIary ( Miller) 
Patterson, was born in 1791, in Ireland, and passed 
his earlier youth in his native land, coming to Amer- 
ica with his parents, who finally settled in Pennsyl- 
vania. Robert Patterson married RIary McConnell, 
a native of Allegheny county, Penn., and settled 
on the homestead in that county. He was one of 
the minute men in the factory at Wilmington, Del., 
previous to his arrival in Pennsylvania. Rlr. and 
Mrs. Patterson were formerly members of the As- 
sociate Reformed Church at Robinson's Run, after- 
ward uniting with the TJ. P. Church at that place. 
Mrs. Patterson died in the spring of 1863, and on 
RIarch 31, 1876, he passed away on the old home- 
stead, while in his eighty-fifth year. 

James Patterson received his education in the 
schools of his native county, and then learned the 
carpenter's trade, following that vocation several 
years. In November, 1861. he was married to 
Miss Catherine Stewart, a native of the Emerald 
Isle, and a daughter of John and RIary (Walker) 
Stewart, also natives of Ireland, who immigrated 
in 1852 to Allegheny county, Penn., where the 
mother died in 1875; the lather is now living with 
his daughter Catherine. James Patterson re- 
mained in Allegheny county several years after 
his marriage, and in 1867 removed to his present 
home in Washington county. Penn. The ohildren 
of James and Catherine (Stewart) Patterson are 
Robert M., John W., Mary Jane, Anna Martha, 
Sarah Ellen and Mary Rebecca. Of this family, 
John W. was married in 1890 to Lizzie J. Phillips, 
a native of Cecil township, and daughter of John 
Wayne and Anna Mary (Cummins) Phillips, na- 
tives of Chartiers township, this county. To the 
union of John W. and Lizzie J. Patterson has been 
born one daughter, Anna Laura. Mary Jane Pat- 
terson (the third child of James) is married to C. 
L. Reed, of Cecil township, and they have one 
child, Catherine Pauline. Mr. Patterson has 135 




acres of laud, to which his attention is principally 
given; he also raises a fine breed of stock. Polit- 
ically, he is au active worker in the Republican 
party. 

\ILLIAM M. RUSSELL, a prosperous 
farmer of Chartiers township, is a son of 
Andrew Russell, whose father was a native 
of Scotland, and came to eastern Penn- 
sylvania, afterward moving to Washing 
ton county, where he died. Andrew Russell was 
born in 1777, in Cecil township, this county, and 
in 1782 came to a farm in Chartiers township, 
where he grew to manhood and was married to 
Ann RlcClellan. They passed their lives in their 
native county. In politics Andrew Russell was a 
Whig, and an active worker in the party. He died 
in 1861, and was followed to the grave by his widow 
February 17, 1868. They were formerly both 
members of the Associate Reformed Church, and 
afterward united with the U. P. Church at Canons- 
burg. They were the parents of eleven children. 

William Rl. Russell was born October 10, 1825, 
in Chartiers township, Washington county, being 
the youngest child in his father's family. He 
was reared on the home farm, and educated in the 
subscription schools of the county. In 1855 he 
was married to Rlargaret Jane Thompson, a native 
of Mt. Pleasant township, this county, and a 
daughter of Joseph and Rlargaret (Wilson) Thomp 
son, natives of Ireland, of Scotch descent. They 
immigrated to America in an early day, settling in 
RIt. Pleasant township, where Joseph Thompson 
passed the rest of his life in agricultural pursuits. 
He was actively interested in political questions, 
and in religion was connected with the TJ. P. 
Church of Hickory, this county. His wife, who 
was a member of the Associate Reformed Church, 
died in 1847, and in 1861 he was laid by her side. 
After his marriage William RI. Russell opened a 
book and drug store at Canonsburg, this county, 
keeping a full line of school and college text-books. 
In 1862 he moved to a farm in RIt. Pleasant town- 
ship, this county, and in 1881 settled on the farm 
in Chartiers township which he now occupies, com- 
prising 135 acres of good land. Mr. and Mrs. 
Russell have had ten children, but four of whom 
are now living, namely: L. A. (living in Chartiers 
township), William Frank (an operator at Bridge- 
ville, Allegheny Co., Penn ), Mamie Bell Agnes 
(married to James M. Paxton) and Robert Lee 
(studying for the ministry at New Wilmington 
College). In politics Mr. Russell is a Republican, 
and has served as supervisor and member of the 
school board. His wife died January 19, 1892. 
She was a member of the TJ. P. Church at Hick- 
ory, in which her husband was an elder, now be- 
ing a member of the United Presbyterian Church 
at Houstonville. 



1202 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 




\ILLIAM VAN KIRK was born Septem- 
ber 24, 1836, in Franklin township, Wash- 
ington Co., 1 Vnn.. and is a great-grand- 
son of Henry Van Kirk, who was born 
January 9, 1 74—. ami who married Sarah 
Van Kirk. To their anion were born the follow 
ing children: William. Johnson, Mary, Gideon, 
Ira, Arthur. Sarah. Henry, John, Ann, Elizabeth 
and Jennie. Mr. Van Kirk settled in Amwell 
township, Washington Co., Penn., in an early day, 
and remained there until his death, April 3, lT'.'T. 
He was a member of the Baptist Church, and in 
politics was a Federalist. 

Henry Van Kirk was born in Amwell township, 
Washington county, and in early life learned the 
mason's trade, which vocation he followed several 
years. He was married to Ruth Jolly, and reared 
the following children: Mary E., Dryden, Jane, 
Charles. Ruth, Susanna and Milton. After a few 
years' residence in Amwell township, Mr. Van- 
Kirk removed to Franklin township, where he 
passed the remainder of his life. In politics he 
was a Whig, and in religious faith a member of 
the Baptist Church. 

Dryden Van Kirk was born on the home farm 
in Franklin township, and in early life learned 
the mason's trade of his father, which was after- 
ward his chief occupation. He was married to 
Matilda Sowers, a resident of eastern Pennsylvania, 
and she bore him children as follows: John O., 
Henry (deceased), William, Charles, Simeou (de- 
ceased), George M. (deceased), Nancy J. (Mrs. 
John McClelland), Sarah (Mrs. Henry Lindley) 
and Hiram. Politically Mr. Van Kirk is a Repnb 
lican. He is now residing on his farm, one of the 
best in Franklin township. 

William Van Kirk passed his early life on the 
he mic farm, attending Hie common schools. Like 
his father and grandfather, he learned the mason's 
trade, and followed it until the commencement of 
the Civil war, when he enlisted, in August, 1862. 
in Company C, One Hundred and Fortieth P. V. 
I. His company was commanded by Capt. Ache- 
son, and was sent to the South, where he did 
guard duty on the West Central Railroad, and 
thence going to Fredericksburg, he remained with 
the company until the close of the war. When on 
the skirmish line near Deep Bottom he was struck 
by the Bplinters of a sapling nearby, which went 
through the knapsack and its contents and killed 
the man beside him. He also stood near a man 
whose head was shot, off by a cannon ball. On his 
return from the war Mr. Van Kirk engaged in buy- 
ing stock. In May, 1872, he was united in mar- 
riage with Sidney A., daughter of George Van- 
Kirk, of Amwell township, and to their union have 
been born the following children: Blanche, infant, 
Howard (deceased), Julius C. and Jessie V. (twins) 
and Merle W. Mr. Van Kirk has achieved suc- 



cess through his own efforts. He has always sup- 
ported the Republican party, and has served as 
school director, supervisor, and inspector of elec- 
tions. The family are members of the Disciple 
Church at Washington. 

Simeon Van Kirk, a brother of William, also en 
listed in Company C, One Hundred and Fortieth 
P. V. I., and followed the fortunes of his regi 
nient until in the battle of Gettysburg they were 
called to assist in a charge, and were outflanked 
by the enemy. Tin' regiment suffered a heavy loss 
when they attempted to close up the ranks, in 
front of Little Round Top Mountain, and Simeon 
Van Kirk was one of the men killed at that time. 




OBERT ZEDIKER. This progressive and 

enterprising citizen of South Strabane 

^ township is a representative of one of the 

^ best-known and most prominent families in 

the county. 

John Zediker, grandfather of subject, was a na- 
tive of eastern Pennsylvania, and in their youth he 
and his brother David, having an eye to the 
grandeur and fertility of tl*e then "far West," 
set out to " spy the land," ostensibly on a hunting 
expedition, and finally arriving in Washington 
county, they were so fascinated with the beauties 
and attractions of South Strabane township, that 
they here resolved to remain and cast their lot. 
John, while in eastern Pennsylvania, had learned 
the trade of blacksmith, which he carried on for 
many years in the county of his adoption. Soon 
after his arrival he married Margaret, daughter of 
Ludwig Smith, who was among the earliest settlers 
of the county, and the children born to this union 
were Lewis, Susan (Mrs. Joseph Hallam), Eliza 
beth (Mrs. George Smith), Julia A. (Mrs James 
Schwisher), Mary (Mrs. Matthew Doak) and John. 
Mr. Smith took a " tomahawk claim " of nearly a 
thousand acres of wild laud, a part of which is 
now occupied by the subject of this sketch. He 
early identified himself with the politics of his sec- 
tion, and was prominent among the Federalists. 
In church matters he also took an active interest, 
ami in the organization of the Lutheran Church in 
Amwell township he was a prominent factor. In 
this Society he was an elder for many years. 

Lewis Zediker, father of our subject, was born 
in 1792 in South Strabane township, and passed 
his boyhood and youth on the home place, attend- 
ing the subscription schools of his locality. In his 
eai ! . manhood he was married to Isabella, daugh- 
ter of Robert Henry, and the children born to them 
were John (deceased), George, Robert, Nicholas, 
Sarah (Mrs. William Birmingham), Mary A., 
Susan (Mrs. E. R. Smith), Julia (Mrs. Frank Mar- 
tin) and Harriet (Mrs. John Redick). After mar 
riage Mr. and Mrs. Zediker took up their residence 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1203 



on the farm of bis father-in-law, where he built a 
log cabin in which they lived some years; then 
moved to the place known as the " B. B. Zediker 
farm," on which they passed the remainder of 
their days, Mr. Zediker dying in 1867, his widow 
in 1876. Their remains repose in the Pigeon 
Creek U. P. cemetery. As members of the United 
Presbyterian Church at Pigeon Creel - , Mr. and 
Mrs. Zediker were among its most active and lib- 
eral supporters. In politics originally a Whig, 
afterward a Republican, he was a leading coun- 
selor in the ranks of either party. 

Robert Zediker was born August 24, 1822, on 
the old homestead, where he was early inducted 
into the multifarious duties of farm life. He at- 
tended the common schools of the district, and 
was regarded as one of the most apt scholars of his 
section. On December 25, 1849, Mr. Zediker was 
united in marriage with Sarah, daughter of John 
Hewitt, of Amwell township, and the children 
born to them are Mary J. (Mrs. John Berk), Anna 
M. (Mrs Aaron Gamble), Martha B. (Mrs. George 
Shipe), Margaret K. (deceased), John H. (de- 
ceased), Emma G. (deceased), Lizzie (Mrs. John 
N. White) and Fannie. After marriage Mr. and 
Mrs. Zediker took up their residence on the home 
farm, where they yet live, and on which they have 
made material improvements, having built two 
commodious dwellings; the one in which they at 
present reside was erected in 1885. 

A zealous and enthusiastic Republican. Mr. 
Zediker has for many years been one of the lead- 
ers of the party in his section, and he has ever 
taken a deep interest in all matters tending to the 
advancement of his township and county, particu- 
larly in educational affairs, in connection with 
which he has done much to elevate the standard 
of instruction, and for a long period he served as 
director of schools. Mr. Zediker, through his lib 
erality and influence, was of valued assistance in 
getting the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad through 
his locality, giving the right of way, and donating 
grounds for the station. 



/ 



HAMILTON DAVIS (deceased) was a son of 
Samuel Davis, who was born in Canton 
township, Washington Co., Penn , June 19, 
1 1794. On February 19, 1816, Samuel 
Davis was united in marriage with Nancy 
Hamilton, a resident of the same county, and she 
bore him the following children: John, William, 
Hugh, Mary, Samuel, Hamilton and Robert. In 
politics Mr. Davis was formerly a Whig, and on 
the organization of the Republican party became 
one of their most active workers. He kept a tav- 
ern for many years, dealt largely in stock and was 
a leader in all public enterprises. On November 
22, 1861, he passed from earth. Mrs. Davis fol- 
lowing him to the grave October 8, 1872. 



Hamilton Davis was born August 22, 1830, in 
Canton township, this county and passed his 
youth upon the farm, receiving his education in 
the common schools. He was an ardent and pro- 
found student, and always took an active part in 
the political and religious questions of the day. 
On March 8, 1865, he was married to Mary G., 
daughter of David Morrow, whose ancestors emi- 
grated to America about the middle of the eight- 
eenth century; her mother was Grizella, daughter 
of Robert Johnson. After their marriage the 
young people immediately took possession of the 
old home farm where the family still reside. The 
children born to them are: Harry N., born Novem- 
ber 3, 1865; John W. , born April 16, 1868; Charles 
M. , born July 16, 1870; Samuel A., born June 1, 
1874; Minnie H, born June 28, 1876; Retta C, 
born March 10, 1879; Frank L., born January 20, 
1881; and David O., born May 10, 1885. Mr. 
Davis was for many years engaged in buying stock 
from different parts of the country, a business in 
which he was successful. In political life he was 
an earnest advocate of Republican principles, al- 
though he never accepted official positions, and 
in religion was for many years a trustee in the 
Presbyterian Church at Upper Buffalo, of which 
he was a zealous member. Mr. Davis died Janu 
ary 31, 1889. 



4 



j If ENRY STEPHEN DAY, a successful and 
«— «l prosperous young farmer of Morris town- 
ship, is a sou of I, N. Day, and a grandson 
of Stephen Dav. Henrv S. Day was bom 
January 13, 1852. and* March 2, 1876, 
was married to Alice K. Vaile, daughter of Leonard 
Vaile, of Morris township, to which union have been 
born five children, as follows: Clinton H, Arthur 
W., Howard N., Harry V. and Mary C, all living. 
Mr. Day has lived for fifteen years on the excellent 
farm of 135 acres which he now owns, which was 
formerly known as the old "Hathaway" farm. He 
gives considerable attention to stock raising, espe- 
cially sheep. He was the first stock raiser to 
introduce Dorset-Horn sheep into Morris township. 
Mr. Day is a lifelong Democrat, and both he and 
his wife are members of Upper Ten-Mile Presby- 
terian Church at Prosperity. Few young men of 
this section have succeeded better or stand higher 
in the estimation of the best citizens, than Henry 
S. Day. 



( NDREW MILLER, a farmer of Mt. Pleas- 
l\ ant township, is a native of the same, hav- 
l\ ing been born there July 17, 1828, and is 
-^ a representative of one of the pioneer fam- 
ilies of Washington county. 
James Miller (his grandfather) was born in Ire- 




1204 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



hind, and coming to Lancaster county, Fenn. , just 
before the Revolution, served five years in the war. 
In L782 he was married to Margaret Shearer, 
afterward serving one year more as a soldier. In 
178(3 he returned to his wife, settling on a farm in 
ML Pleasant township, this county, and followed 
agricultural pursuits. He and his wife were mem 
bers of the Seceder Church. 

Thomas Miller, a sun of James and Margaret 
Miller, was horn in 1783, in Mt. Pleasant township, 
Washington county. In 1806 he bought the farm 
now owned by liis son, Andrew, and in the spring 
of 1812 was united in marriage with Sarah Miller, 
daughter of Thomas and Margaret Miller, also na- 
tives of Ireland. The latter had emigrated from 
their native country, and, coming to Washington 
county, settled in Mt. Pleasant township, where 
they passed the remainder of their lives, the father 
dying in his eighty-seventh year. They were both 
members of the Seceder Church at Hickory. After 
his marriage Thomas Miller settled on the home 
farm. ami there passed his life, combining agricult- 
ural duties with carpentry, having erected the 
first house in Claysville. He was a worker in the 
Democratic party, and in religious connection he 
and his wife were both members of the Seceder 
Church at Hickory. He died in 1859, being fol 
lowed in 1805 by his wife, who had borne him 
children as follows: James (deceased at the age 
of twenty three years), Margaret, Catherine, Mary, 
Sarah, Ami, Thomas, Elizabeth (deceased at the 
age of seven years) and Andrew (subject of this 
sketch), all now deceased except the last mentioned 
son. 

Andrew Miller was reared on the home farm, 
receiving a subscription-school education. On 
March 11. 1852, he was married to Sarah Stewart 
(a nativeof Chartiers township), daughter of Archi- 
bald and Rebecca (Reed) Stewart. Archibald 
Stewart was a blacksmith, and passed his entire 
life in Chartiers township, where both he and his 
wife died some years ago. After their marriage 
Andrew and Sarah (Stewart) Miller settled on the 
home farm and reared the following children: 
Thomas, Archibald S. (a merchant, living in Wash 
inglon, Penn., married to Miss Susannah Espy), 
James B., John N. (a physician of Dorseyville, 
Penn., married to Maggie Weber; he is an elder 
in the U. P. church), Andrew Reed (an attorney of 
Steubenville, Ohio), W. W. (a physician and sur 
geon at Bakerstown, Penn), David M. (a physi 
cian and surgeon at Pittsburgh, Penn.), Alvin and 
Rebecca Jane. Andrew Miller has a good coal 
land farm of 212 acres, upon which is a pleasant 
and comfortable residence and barn, with many 
other improvements. He is not an active politi 
cian, but has held some township offices. He and 
his wife are members of the Cross Roads United 
Presbyterian Church. Many changes have been 



wrought since the ancestors first settled on the old 
farm. The grandfather, James Miller, used to 
make the trip by boat to New Orleans, returning 
home on foot through miles of unbroken wilder- 
ness, where now the locomotive sweeps by with a 
scream and pleasant homes dot the grassy hills and 
valleys. 




\ILLIAM A. DICKSON, a successful 
l\fl\// farmerof Robinson township, is a grand 
son of George Dickson, who was a native 
of Ireland, immigrating to Allegheny 
county, Penn., at an early day. He then 
purchased 400 acres of land, and followed farming 
and stock raising until his death. 

William Dickson, father of William A., was 
born in IT'.II), and reared on the home farm iu 
Allegheny county. He was married to Margaret 
Glenn, who bore him children as follows: George 
(a surveyor, of Pittsburgh, Penn.), Rachel (widow 
of Robert Potter, of Noblestown, Penn.), James G. 
(a practicing physician of Canonsburg, this county), 
Mary (widowof James Clarke, of Canonsburg), Will- 
iam A., and three that died in infancy. The father 
united with the old Seceder Church when but sev- 
enteen years of age, and during the last twenty 
years of his life was a member of the U. P. 
Church of Noblestown. He was a ruling elder in 
these Societies for fifty-five years, and in business 
was a prominent and successful agriculturist. He 
died March 19, 1872. 

William A. Dickson was born June 15, 1831, and 
reared to manhood on the old home farm. His 
elementary instruction was obtained at the country 
schools, after which he attended Duff's Commer- 
cial College at Pittsburgh, completing the course 
in 1856. He then returned home and worked on 
the home farm. On October 15, 1857, he was 
united in the bonds of matrimony with Elizabeth 
McBurney, who was born on February 28, 1835, 
in Washington county, an only child of Robert 
and Eliza (Welch) McBurney, the former of whom 
was a son of John McBurney, Sr. Robert Mc 
Burney was originally a Democrat, then became 
an Abolitionist and finally a Republican. He was 
a member of the Centre U. P. Church, and an 
elder in same for some years. For years he served 
as a justice of the peace. He died in 1875; his 
widow is still living with her son in law. 

To the union of William A. and Elizabeth (Mc- 
Burney) Dickson the following children have been 
born: Margaret G., Elizabeth W. (a graduate of 
the Steubenville Female Seminary, class of '85, 
afterward teaching two years in the Oswego Col 
lege, now teaching at Chase City, Va.), Robert M. 
(who graduated at Du(T's College), William R. 
(graduated at New Wilmington College, now a 
student in the Medical College at Pittsburgh, 







^ 




Z7Z-L- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1207 



Penn.), Anna S. (a graduate of New Wilmington, 
Lawrence Co., Penn., now teaching at Chase City, 
Va. ), Agnes J. (student at New Wilmington), Wal- 
ter E. and Bertha L. Mr. Dickson still retains a 
portion of the ancestral acres. In 1875 he moved 
to his present home in Washington county. He 
and his family are members of the United Presby- 
terian Church, and he was an elder in the U. P. 
Church at Noblestown, at present in the Midway 
U. P. Church. 



THOMAS MeCLELLAND is of Irish descent, 
his grandfather, TJiojaas McClelland, hav- 
ing been born in County Donegal, Ireland, 
and immigrated to~~A~meri<'a when about 
seventeen years of age, first landing at New 
York. Thomas McClelland entered the war of the 
Revolution", "and served till the close of the contest, 
peCeTving a cut in the head, besides being 
wounded in both ankles. He was afterward mar- 
ried to Nancy, daughter of Samuel Fergus, and 
their children were William., Margaret (Mrs. Will- 
iam McLain), Mary (Mrs. John Allen), Hugh, 
John. Martha (Mrs. James Brown) and Thomas. 
Mr. McClelland passed the earlier part of his 
married life in Adams county, Penn., and in the 
year 1790 removed to South Strabane township, 
Washington Co., same State, where he remained 
until his death. Politically he was identified with 
the Democratic party, and in religion was formerly 
a member of the Covenanter Church, but afterward 
united with the United Presbyterian Church at 
Washington. 

W')ljam McClellan d, son of Thomas and Nancy 
(Fergus) McClelland, was born in Adams county. 
Penn., in 1783, and was six years of age when his 
parents brought, him to Washington county, where 
he obtained his education. He was united in mar- 
riage with Mary, daughter of John Allen, also aresi- 
dent of South Strabane township, and to theirunion 
were born the following children: Eliza, Nancy 
(Mis , Samuel McQ uayJ, Thomas, Rebecca (Mrs. 
' . I anies Waller). Jane and John. Mr. McClelland 
was a Democrat in politics. In religion he was 
formerly a member of the Presbyterian Church 
at Washington, but after united with the United 
Presbyterian. 

Thomas McClelland was born March 6, 1818, on 
the farm in South Strabane township which is his 
present home, and received a subscription school 
education. On March 17, 1842, he was married 
to Martha, daughter of William Waller, a resident 
of Somerset township; he was united in marriage 
with Mary Peese, and settled on the home farm. 
His children are Andrew, Elizabeth, Mary, Will- 
iam, Ruth A., Rachel, Sarah, George, James, 
Margaret, Martha and William. Mr. McClelland 
is a Democrat in politics, and has held the offices 



of road supervisor aud school director. In religion 
he is an adherent of the Presbyterian Church at 
Pigeon Creek. 



If O. McKNIGHT. Among the early fam 

1— A dies of Washington county, none are 

more deserving of prominent mention 

j - 1 than that of the gentleman whose name 

v opens this sketch. His grandfather, Hugh 

McKnight, was born in Ireland, and came to 

America in early life, first settling in Cecil county, 

Mil., where he was married to Mary Nesbit. In 

1784 they moved to Washington county, settling 

on the Littleton tract of 193 acres. He died in 

this county. 

Joseph McKnight, father of subject, was born 
in 1774, in Cecil county, Md., and in 1818 was 
united in marriage with Sarah Anderson, a native 
of Ireland, who came with her parents in 1781 to 
eastern Pennsylvania, and settled in Chartiers 
township in 1800. She was a daugher of Abraham 
and Elizabeth (Chestnut) Anderson, natives of Ire- 
land, who settled in Chartiers township, this 
county. They had a son in the war in 1812. Mr. 
and Mrs. Anderson died some time prior to 1850. 
The young people began married life on a farm in 
Chartiers township, where two children were born 
to tliem, viz.: Eliza Mary (Mrs. Alexander Mc 
Connell, of Chartiers township) and H. O. (subject 
of our sketch). Mrs. McKnight died in 1850, and 
in 1856 Mr. McKnight was married to Margaret, 
widow of John Campbell, and daughter of Thomas 
McEwen, of Allegheny county, Penn. Joseph Me 
Knight was a soldier in the war of 1812, and was 
at Erie with Commodore Perry, at the time the 
fleet was building in 1813. He was an active poli- 
tician of the Whig party, and afterward became a 
Republican. In religion he was a member and 
ruling elder of the Seceder Church at Hickory, 
this county. He died in 1872 on the home farm 
nearly in his hundredth year: he had lost his sight 
some years before. Mrs. McKnight died in 1892. 
in her ninety-second year. She was formerly a 
member of the Associate Reformed Churcly-which 
afterward became the United Presbyterian 
Church. 

H. O McKnight, was born September 29, 1822. 
on the home farm in Chartiers township, and was 
the youngest child born to his father's first mar- 
riage. He received a district-school education, and. 
May 19, 1859, he married Margaret, daughter of 
Robert and Elizabeth (Dawson) Welch, natives of 
Maryland, who came to Washington county and 
settled in Chartiers township, where their lives 
were passed. Mrs. McKnight died June 10, 1871, 
leaving four children : Sarah Anderson (Mrs. A. 
T. Cowden. of Mt. Pleasant township). Joseph A. 
(who married Lizzie J. Welch, and lives on the 



1208 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



home farm), FloreDce Emma (who died in Decem- 
ber, 1889, wife of A. C. Smith, of Canton town- 
ship) and Ella Margaret Welch (living at home). 
On October 1, 1873, Mr. McKnight married 
Martha E., daughter of Thomas and Jane (Mills) 
Paxton, natives of Washington county and Ohio, 
respectively. Mr. Paxton died in 1886, and his 
widow is now living in Chartiers township. Mrs. 
McKnight died April 20, 1884. H. O. McKnight 
owns a good farm, containing 240 acres of fertile, 
well -improved land, upon which is a large tract of 
timber. In 1879 he erected a comfortable barn, 
70x3(>, and in 1878 built an eight-roomed, two- 
story house. He was formerly a Whig, and has 
been a member of the Republican party since its 
organization; he has held various township offices, 
having served as justice of the peace and member 
of the school board. He is a member of the Char- 
tiers Cross Roads United Presbyterian Church, 
formerly of Mt. Pleasant U. P. Church, with 
which his wife was also connected. 



J JOHN A. BOONE is a prominent representa- 
i tive of a pioneer family of Washington 
| county. John Boone, his grandfather, was 
born in County Antrim, Ireland, where he 
was married to Nancy Badger. The family came 
to America many years ago, and first settled in 
Dauphin county. Penn., where Mr. Boone was en- 
gaged in farming and distilling, most of the wheat 
being then distilled, as produce brought no profit. 
He finally moved to Canonsburg, Penn., where he 
died. Their children were as follows: William, 
James, John, Mary, Jane, Margaret, Elizabeth, 
Joseph and Nancy. In politics Mr. Boone was a 
Whig, and in religion a member of the Presbyte- 
rian Church at Miller's Run. 

Joseph Boone, son of John, was born in 1798, 
in Diiuphin county, Perm., and came to Washing- 
ton county, Penn., with his parents, when yet a 
child. He attended the schools of Washington 
county, and was early inducted into the mysteries 
of agriculture. In early life he was married to 
Nancy, daughter of John McCoy, a resident of 
Chartiers township, this county, and a native of 
Scotland. Mr. and Mrs. Boone began married 
life on the farm now occupied by John C. McNary, 
where they resided about three years, then pur 
chased and moved upon a farm in Cecil township, 
and three years later settled in North Strabane 
township, this county. Mr. Boone died Septem- 
ber 1(5, 1850, having made a success in life solely 
by his own exertions. He was a Whig, and in 
religion a member of the Chartiers Presbyterian 
Church. Mrs. Boone is yet living, now in her 
eighty-eighth year. She is the mother of the fol- 
lowing children: John A., Samuel (who gradu- 
ated at Jefferson College, Canonsburg, in August, 



1853, and is now living in Ohio), Thomas (de- 
ceased) and Margaret (Mrs. Thomas Pettil). 

John A. Boone, eldest son of Joseph and Nancy 
(McCoy) Boone, was born June 13, 1829, in 
Chartiers township, this county, and received his 
early education at the common schools. On May 28, 
1874, he was united in marriage with Ada, daugh 
ter of Levi Griffith, and three children have been 
born to them, viz.: Ada C. and Alice E. (twins) 
and Joseph G. Mr. Boone is an energetic, repre- 
sentative citizen, in politics a Republican, and in 
church connection a member of the First Presby- 
terian congregation of Canonsburg. His home is 
a large and beautiful residence, pleasantly situated 
on the principal street of Canonsburg. 



If AMES D. HUSTON, a public-spirited and en- 
terprising citizen of Amwell township, is a 
ft J grandson of Joseph Huston, who came to 
^^ Washington, this county, in 1786, and es- 
tablished the old ''Huston Inn'' (as it was 
then called), situated on the east side of Main 
street, below Maiden. He kept the tavern until 
his death, making a good profit in the business. 
He married Miss Elizabeth Beckwith, and to their 
union were born the following children: Mrs. Sarah 
Meetkirk (deceased at the age of ninety one years), 
Mrs. Isabella Sarratt (deceased when aged forty- 
two), Cyrus (who died in his seventy- eighth year), 
Mary, wife of Zachariah Reynolds (she died when 
eighty-seven years old), Joseph (who died in his 
eighty-fifth year), Hamilton (who died in his 
eighty-first year), William B. (deceased in his 
eighty fourth year; he continued the old "Huston 
Inn" for many yearn), and Mrs. Eliza Oliver (who 
died when eighty-six years old). At the time of 
his death, which occurred in 1813. Joseph Huston, 
the father of this family, owned nearly all the 
southwestern part of Washington, Penn. His 
wife survived him many years, and died about 
1855, in her eighty-fifth year. 

Cyrus Huston, son of Joseph, was born Febru- 
ary 23, 1797. at Washington, Penn., in the old 
" Huston Inn." In early manhood he learned the 
trade of a cabinet maker, which he followed for 
a time in what is now known as Monongahela, 
thence in about 1843 removed to Pittsburgh, and 
was there during the great fire of 1845. He after- 
ward sold out and invested in a tan-yard, opposite 
Horse Island, on the Allegheny side of the river; 
he was then a very wealthy man. but the flood of 
1852 completely ruined him, and he afterward re- 
turned to Pittsburgh, where he lived about twenty 
years, engaged in the real estate and brokerage 
business. In 1848 he was married to Miss Mary 
Swart, and they had one child. Sarah. The mother 
lived but a short time afterward, and Mr. Huston 
was afterward married to Mrs. Nancy Howden, 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1209 



by which union were born James D. (whose name 
opens this sketch) and Mrs. Martha Belle Hornish. 
About 1872 Mr. Huston came to Washington 
county, Penn., where he remained till his death, 
which occurred May 3, 1874. 

James D. Huston was born August 4, 1838, in 
Washington, Penn., and remained with his parents 
until they moved to Pittsburgh, when he went to 
Holmes county, Ohio, and for a time attended a 
small academy in Knox county, same State. He 
then went to Pittsburgh and learned the trade of 
cabinet making, which business he followed, to- 
gether with carpentering, five years, and removing 
in 1859 to Amity, this county, he embarked in mer- 
cantile business. In 1860 he went to Monticello, 
Ind. , and clerked in a store there for a time, but 
returning to Amity in 1864 lie bought out James 
Hughes, Sr. , and in April, 1865, again began mer- 
cantile business. On April 29, 1862, Mr. Huston 
was united in marriage with Rosetta Hughes, who 
has borne him five children, namely: William (de 
ceased), born July 15, 1863; Charles (deceased). 
bom September 23, 1864; Mrs. Doisey M. Bur- 
roughs, born November 28, 1867; Harry H. . born 
January 14, 1870 (still living at home), and Jessie 
B. (Mrs. Kerr), bora August 7, 1871. In 1869 
Mr. Huston removed to Lone Pine, and served as 
postmaster there for sixteen years. He was pres- 
ident of the academy of Pleasant Valley three 
years. He has always taken an active interest in 
school matters, and is ever ready to aid a worthy 
cause. He has always been a Republican. 




LEXANDER McCONNELL represents one 
of the earliest pioneers of Washington 
county, his grandfather, Alexander McCon- 
nell, who was a native of Virginia, coming 
to Washington county in 1787, with a 
brother Matthew. The brothers each took a farm, 
and Alexander afterward bought 200 acres of the 
"Black Woods" tract, of one Mr. Black. Alexan- 
der was married in Cecil township, this county, to 
Elizabeth McCrory, and they settled on a farm 
adjoining that of his grandson and namesake. He 
took an active part in the Whiskey Insurrection. 
In church relation he and his wife were members 
of the Seceder denomination. He died many years 
ago, being followed several years later by his wife. 
She was the mother of six children, viz. : Alexan- 
der, who resided in Cecil township; David, whose 
sketch follows; Prudence, wife of James Oram: 
Jane; Nancy; and Matthew, of Chartiers town- 
ship, all now deceased. 

David McConnell, son of Alexander and Eliza- 
beth (McCrory) McConnell, was born in 1791, on 
the home farm in Cecil township, where he grew 
to manhood. In 1828 he was united in marriage 
with Sarah Campbell, who was born in 1805 in 



Cecil township, and to their union were born the 
following children : Alexander (who died at, the age 
of fourteen years), Mary Margaret (Mrs. James 
Johnston, of Helena, Mont.), John C. (a widower, 
living in Washington, Iowa, near Ainsworth), Eliz- 
abeth (deceased, first married to James Giffin, 
then to Frank Collins, of Peters township, this 
county), David (who died at the age of four years), 
Jane (deceased in youth), Alexander (whose name 
opens this sketch), Isabella (Mrs. John Skiles, of 
Dallas county, Iowa), and Sarah (wife of J. R. 
Gladden, of Cecil township). 

After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. McConnell 
settled on the homestead in Cecil township. In 
politics he was formerly a Whig, then a Democrat, 
and served some years as supervisor. He and his 
wife were first connected with the U. P. Church at 
Robinson's Run, afterward uniting with the same 
society at Venice, he having been one of the organ- 
izers of the church in the latter place. David Mc 
Connell died in 1873, and was followed by his wife 
in 1881. 

Alexander McConnell was born in 1840. on the 
old place in Cecil township, this county, attend 
ing during his boyhood the district schools of 
the vicinity. In 1881 he was married to Mary 
Jane, daughter of John and Mary (Spence) Mat 
thews, natives of Cecil township; they moved to 
Jefferson county, Kans. , where the father died in 
1887, the mother following him to the grave in 
1889. Alexander and Mary Jane McConnell set- 
tled on the place where they are now living, and 
whicli contains 109 well-cultivated acres. The 
barn, yet in a good condition, was erected in 1794, 
and the house was built in 1805. In politics 
he is a Democrat, but votes independently in 
county elections. He has served two or three 
terms as supervisor, and in religion he and his wife 
are members of the U. P. Church at Venice. They 
have three children: Esther Mary, Sarah Eveline 
and John Walter. 




y. OBERT HERRON, a descendant of a lead- 
\J ing pioneer of North Strabane township, 
^ was born September 30, 1826, on the farm 
-^ now occupied by his brother James. He 
is a son of Joseph Herron and grandson of 
James, whose father, Charles Herron. was bora in 
Ireland, where he was married, and reared a large 
family, coming with them to America in an early 
day. His son James was born in County Down, 
Ireland, and passed his boyhood in his native land. 
He came to America in the latter part of the eight- 
eenth century, locating in North Strabane town- 
ship, this county, on the farm now owned by James 
Herron, the grandson. The place was then in a 
rude state of cultivation, but was soon transformed 
into a comfortable home. In early manhood Mr. 



i2M 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



Herron was united in marriage with Rachel Reed, 
a resident of Ohio, and the following children were 
born to them: Charles. John, William, James, 
Robert, John, Joseph, Thomas and Rachel. Po- 
litically, Mr. Herron was a Democrat, and took au 
active part in the questions of the day. He was an 
earnest member of the Seceder Church. 

Joseph Herron was born January 2, 1797, in 
North Strabaue township, Washington couuty, on 
I lie farm of his father, and received his early 
education in the schools of the vicinity. On Jan- 
uary 3, 1824, he was married to Margaret, daughter 
of Daniel Hastings, of Somerset township, this 
couuty, and then settled on the home place, where 
the remainder of his life was passed. In 1850 he 
erected the brick residence now occupied by his 
son James. To Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Herron were 
born children as follows: Rachel, born December 
15, 1824; Robert, born September 30, 1826; James, 
born September 18, 1828; John, born July 24. 
1830; Sarah J. (Mrs. Jonathan Peese), born April 
22, 1833; Joseph, born December 8, 1834; Mar- 
garet A. (Mrs. Robert Munnel), born October 4, 
1837; and Elizabeth M. (Mrs. John B. Herron), 
I "ini October 0, 1842. Mr. Herron was a Demo- 
crat in politics, and served as judge of elections 
and school director. He was also a lieutenant in 
the militia, and in religious connection was a mem- 
ber and liberal supporter of the Seceder Church. 
Mr. Herron died January 25. 1852, and was fol- 
lowed by his wife March 18, 1854. Both are buried 
in the cemetery of the United Presbyterian Church 
at Pigeon Creek. 

Robert. Herron worked on the home farm during 
his boyhood, and on May 13, 1858, was united in 
marriage with Rachel E., daughter of John Berry, 
and she bore him the following children: William 
G., Margaret J. (Mrs. W. B. McNarv). Lizzie R. 
(Mrs. M. H Munce). Anna M. (Mrs! W. H. Mc- 
Narv), Sadie Thome and Robert Walker. Mr. 
Herron has always been a Democrat, in politics, and 
has held various township offices. He is a very 
prominent, citizen, and in religious connection he 
and his family are members of the United Presby 
terian Church at Mt. Prospect, to which he gives 
a liberal support. Mr. Herron has in his posses- 
sion one of the oldest Ribles in Washington county, 
which was formerly the property of one of his 
paternal ancestors. 




ICHARD GLADDEN occupies a conspicu- 
ous position in the large circle of prorni 
nent agriculturists of Cecil township, and 
x is descended from a pioneer familv. The 
earliest ancestors of the name, whose 
history can be obtained, were William and Mary 
(Woods) Gladden, both of whom were born in 
eastern Pennsylvania. They came to Cecil town- 



ship in May, 1795, and bought of one Nicholas 
Gauuce 206J acres, of which tract he had secured 
the patentin 1789, and which became their perma 
nent home. After the death of William, the land 
became the property of Richard Gladden, and has 
continued to remain in the family name up to the 
present time. 

Richard Gladden, son of William and Mary 
(Woods) Gladden, was born on the old homestead 
in Cecil township, and was reared to agricultural 
pursuits. In early life he was married to Mary 
Kelso, who was born near Noblestown, Allegheny 
Co., Penn. He brought his bride to the old farm 
and devoted his life to agricultural pursuits, also 
giving considerable attention to politics; he voted 
with the Whig and Republican parties. To the 
union of Richar 1 and Mary Gladden came the fol- 
lowing children: William, living in Canonsburg, 
Penn.; Martha, wife of Thomas Reed, living at 
Pasadena, Cal. ; Benjamin John, residing in Car- 
thage, Mo. ; George, a physician aud surgeon of 
Homestead, Allegheny Co., Penn.; Richard, whose 
sketch follows; and Joseph, living at Canonsburg, 
Penn. The father of this family died in 1864, 
the mother passing away in 1885. Both were 
members of the U. P. Church at Robinson's Run. 

Richard Gladden, son of Richard and Mary 
(Kelso) Gladden, was born in 1855, in Cecil town- 
ship, in a house which was used as a fort in colonial 
times. The schoolhouse which he first attended 
was built on the ground where an oil well is now in 
operation. On October 25, 1876, he was united in 
with Lavina Tuten, who was born in 
Mt. Pleasant township, this county, 
of George and Catherine (Trimmer) 
Tuten, natives of eastern Pennsylvania, who settled 
in this county many years ago. The father died 
in Hickory, Penn.. and the mother is yet living, in 
Pittsburgh. Richard and Lavina (Tuten) Gladden 
began married life on the farm in Cecil township 
which they now occupy, consisting of 200 acres of 
well cultivated land. He has been engaged in the 
dairy business, and three oil wells are in operation 
on the place. In politics he is a Republican, and 
in religion Mr. and Mrs. Gladden are members of 
the U. P. Church at McDonald, Penn. They are 
the parents of three children, viz. : Anna Mary, 
Iva and Frank. 



marriage 
Hickory, 
daughter 



J 



W. GIFFIN is descended from a family 
who originally settled in eastern Pennsyl- 
vania. In 1795 Andrew and Jane (Hervey) 
Giffin bought 450 acres of land on the 
boundary line of Allegheny and Washington coun- 
ties. They settled in Cecil township, this county, 
where he died in 1815, being followed by his wife 
a few years later. 

John Giffin, sou of Andrew and Jane Giffin, was 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1211 



born in 1785, in Chester county, Penn., and when 
t mii years of age came with his parents to Cecil 
township, where his youth was passed. In 1804 
he was united in marriage with Jane Hanson, who 
was born about the year 1787, in Fayette town- 
ship, Allegheny Co., Penn., and they settled per 
manently on a farm in Allegheny county, to which 
he devoted his time; he took an active part in the 
Whig and Republican factions. He died in 1870, 
having been several years preceded by his wife. 
Their children were as follows: Andrew H. (liv- 
ing in Cecil township), Margaret (deceased in 
youth), Jane (widow of William Young, in Cecil 
township), Alice (wife of John Ballantine, in Mus- 
kingum county, Ohio), Nancy (who died in 1890, in 
New Concord, Ohio, wife of Andrew Hanson), J. W. 
(whose sketch is given below), Jacob Hanson (do- 
ceased), William (a widower, living in Canons 
burg, Penn.), Mary (Mrs. Itichard Boyce, of Mis- 
souri), Thomas (a widower, living in Kansas), 
Rebecca (deceased wife of Archibald Rutherford, 
of West Virginia) and Sarah (Mrs. George Ruth- 
erford, of West Virginia). The parents were 
members of the Associate Reformed Church at 
Robinson's Run. 

J. W. GifTm was born December 1, 1815, in 
Allegheny county, Penn., and was educated in the 
log-cabin subscription schools of Fayette township. 
He was first married to Elizabeth Patterson, a na- 
tive of Allegheny county, daughter of James Pat- 
terson, who was born in Ireland, and immigrated 
to this country many years ago. The young peo- 
ple settled in Fayette township, Allegheny county, 
and the wife died in Cecil township, this county, 
in LS60, leaving three children, viz. : Mary Abi- 
gail, Samuel Hanson (living at McKeesport, Penn.) 
and James P. (a widower, of Pittsburgh, Penn.). 
On March 19, 1803, Mr. Giffin was united in mar 
riage with Patience Morrison, a native of Notting- 
ham township, this county, the ceremony taking 
place in Cecil township. She was a daughter of 
Maj. John Morrison, an early pioneer of Notting- 
ham township. This wife died in 1870 in Cecil 
township, leaving four children, as follows: Eliza- 
beth, Mrs. William R. Miller, of Mt. Washington, 
Allegheny Co., Penn.; John B., living at home; 
Anna, wife of Harry Wilson, of Noblestown, 
Penn., and Ella Y., living at home. In 1874 
Mr. Giffin bought an improved farm of 111 acres 
adjoining Venice, this county, where he carries 
on general farming, and upon which is an oil well 
nearly ready for operation. Politically he was 
formerly a Whig, and has been a member of the 
Republican party since its organization; has 
served as supervisor, member of the school board, 
assessor and in various other offices of public 
trust. He is a member of the U. P. Church at 
Venice. 



»T= V OBERT JOHNSTON. The Johnston family 
lWy were for many years residents of Allegheny 

\\\ county, Penn. , where one James Johnston 
JJ - 1 was born and reared. In early life he was 
v married to Jane Morrow, a native of the 

same county, and the young couple immediately 
settled in Peters township, Washington Co., Penn. 
He died in his seventy third year, his wife passing 
away at the age of seventy two, leaving a family 
of children, among whom was a son Robert. 

Robert Johnston was born September 30, 1817, 
on the farm in Peters township, Washington Co., 
Penn., and during his earlier years assisted his 
father with the work on the place. On March 2, 
1841, he married Miss Rebecca Black, and they 
began housekeeping on a farm which he had pur- 
chased of his father, near Canonsburg, this county. 
In 1863 he bought 141 acres of land in North 
Strabane township, this county, to which he re- 
moved in the fall of that year. On this farm he 
has continued to reside, and has reared four chil 
dreu, namely: Sarah Jane, James L. (living in 
Canonsburg), Richard and Mary Eliza. The 
mother died in 1872, at the age of fifty-eight years, 
but her memory is ever living in tho hearts of those 
who knew and loved her. The family are mem- 
bers of the First Presbyterian Church at Canons 
burg, and Mr. Johnston has taken an active part 
in questions of public interest, having served in 
various township offices. 

Richard Johnston, the second son of Robert and 
Rebecca Johnston, was born February 20, 1848, 
on the place near Canonsburg, this county, and has 
passed his life under the parental roof, receiving 
a common school education. On November 13, 
1873, he married Anna M., daughter of Isaac and 
Jane (Matthews) Weaver, and she has borne him 
three children, namely: Eva M. , Robert B. and 
Harry W. Like his father, Richard Johnston 
affiliates with the Democratic party, and in relig- 
ion he and his wife are members of the First 
Presbyterian Church at Canonsburg. 




OBERT WARRELL. Among the esteemed 
residents of East Finley township, none 
are more worthy than the subject of this 
sketch. He is a son of James Warrell, who 
was a native of County Donegal, Ireland, 
to which country Washington county is indebted 
for many of her substantial and enterprising 
citizens. 

James Warrell received a fair education, of 
which he made good use in later years, and 
learned the shoemaker's trade. In about 1815 he 
was united in marriage with Sarah Wilson t a native 
of the same county, and before leaving Ireland the 
following children were born to them: Thomas 



1212 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



(deceased), Rebecca (living in Allegheny county, 
Peun.), Rachel (deceased), Charles (residing in 
Glaysville, this county) and James (deceased). Mr. 
Warrell was engaged in the mercantile and broker 
business at Convoy, County Donegal, Ireland, and 
during the war of 1812 was frequently called on 
business to New York, Baltimore, Philadelphia 
and many other large eastern cities. In 1825 he 
immigrated with his family to America, and land- 
ing at New York, resided in that city for some 
time, where another child, Robert, was born to 
him. In 1826 he moved to Washington county, 
Penn., locating near Glaysville, Donegal township, 
where he purchased some property, upon which 
was a hotel, conducted for a short time by John 
Valentine, then purchasing a farm, engaged in 
agriculture. Three other children were there born: 
William, a farmer in East Finley township, this 
county; Sarah Ann (Mrs. William L. Oliver), of East 
Finley township, and John, a farmer of Richland 
county, Ohio. Mr. Warrell was never sick a day 
in his life before his last illness, and was a man of 
wonderful vigor and vitality. He once walked 
from Claysville to Pittsburgh and returned, in one 
day and two hours of the night. Politically he 
was a Republican, and in religious faith a member 
of the Presbyterian Church. His wife died in 
1834, and after a short sickness he sank peacefully 
to rest. 

Robert Warrell (the eldest of the children born 
in America) was born in New York City, July 4, 
1826, and was early brought by his parents to 
Washington county, Penn., where he received a 
limited education. After attaining his majority he 
was employed as a tanner, afterward becoming a 
partner in the business with his brother. He then 
clerked in the dry-goods store of George K. Scott, 
Washington, Penn., for some time, when he went 
to Pittsburgh and clerked for Stephen Barton, a 
jeweler and notion dealer on the corner of Wood 
and Water streets. At this time there were no 
railroads in the city. On July 30, 1850, Mr. War- 
rell was united in marriage with Rebecca Crisswell, 
who was born November 15, 1825, a daughter of 
Richard and Jemima (McKenzie) Crisswell. To 
this union two children were born: Sarah E. 
(widow of Rev. William Gamble, a M. E. minister 
and native of Allegheny county), born May 29, 
1851 (has four children: Mamie R., Clara E., 
Estelle and Walter D.), and Robert B. , born Sep- 
tember — , 1854 (deceased when four months old). 
After his marriage Mr. Warrell remained some 
time in Pittsburgh, and then moved to Henry 
county, Ohio, locating near Napoleon (the county 
seat). He remained there two years, returning in 
1850 to Washington county, Penn., where he 
finally settled on his present well-improved farm, 
situated five miles south of Claysville, in East 
Finley township, this county, and successfully 



followed agricultural pursuits. Mr. Warrell is a 
versatile man, and has au extensive acquaintance 
throughout the county. He is an enthusiastic 
worker in the Republican party, and has been 
called on to till several political offices, but has in- 
variably declined. He and his wife are both mem- 
bers of the Stony Point M. E. Church. Their 
widowed daughter, with her four children, resides 
with her parents. 



JfAMES SMITH was born January 1, 1817, on 
the old farm in Washington county, where he 
J remained until he reached the age of maturity. 
He is a grandson of Demas Smith, who 
emigrated to this country from Germany, 
and was married to Elizabeth Zook, a native of 
the same country. They had the following family 
of children: Betsey (Mrs. Juhns), Joseph, Peter, 
Polly (Mrs. Iamso), Susau (Mrs. Clark), Chris- 
topher, Hannah (Mrs. Huffmau), Rachel (Mrs. 
Scales), A brain, Susan, Dennis, David and Cath- 
erine (Mrs. Meeks). Mr. Smith served seven years 
in the war of the Revolution, being among the 
band of suffering heroes who for the cause of lib- 
erty endured those terrible winters at Valley 
Forge. He entered Washington county about 1785, 
locating in West Bethlehem township, at the head 
of Daniels run. Here he resided two years, and 
then moved to Greene county, settling on a farm of 
200 acres in what is now Washington township. 
He there passed the remainder of his life, dying 
about 1824 in his ninety-sixth year. In politics, 
he was an Old-time Whig. 

Peter Smith, son of Demas and Elizabeth Smith, 
was born in the State of Pennsylvania (east of the 
mountains) in 1775, and in 1785 removed with his 
father's family to West Bethlehem township, 
Washington county. He remained with his parents 
(who afterward moved to Greene county) until he 
was twenty nine years old, but had no educational 
privileges. In 1804 he was united in marriage 
with Priscilla Cooper, daughter of Moses and 
Sarah Cooper, of Amwell township, this county, 
and to this union were born children as follows: 
Dennis, Moses (deceased), Polly (Mrs. Garber), 
Peter, Betsey (Mrs. Riggle), Sally (Mrs. Potts, 
residing in Missouri), James, David (deceased), 
Mrs. Eunice Johnson (deceased), Hannah (Mrs. 
Hutford) and Priscilla (Mrs. Bealer). Mr. Smith 
was a hard working and successful man, owning at 
one time 300 acres of land. He was a Whig, and 
took an active interest in the political affairs of the 
township and county. He and his father were for 
many years members of the Baptist Church. Mrs. 
Smith died in 1840, Mr. Smith in 1848. 

James. Smith, son of Peter and Priscilla Smith, 
received his education in the common schools of 
Washington county, Penn., and is fond of his 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1213 



torieal and current literature. In 1843 he was 
united in marriage with Margaret Johnson, daugh- 
ter of Zenis and Sarah Johnson, of Greene county, 
Penn., and to this union were born two children: 
Johnson, a resident of McKeesport, Allegheny 
Co., Penn., and Sarah, deceased wife of Mr. Wat- 
son. After his marriage Mr. Smith moved on the 
farm he now occupies, which he purchased when 
his father died. His first wife dying March 4, 1871, 
Mr. Smith married for his second wife Mrs. Sarah 
Paul, widow of Philo Paul. In political affiliation 
Mr. Smith was a Whig, first casting his vote for 
Gen. Harrison, and since its formation has been an 
active member of the Republican party. He is 
much interested in local politics, and has been su- 
pervisor and school director for a number of years. 
He has been a valuable member of the Baptist 
Church forty seven years. 




,\ILSON T. DENNY, son of Josiah, grand 
son of William and Elizabeth Denny, was 
born September 11, 1843, in Cecil town 
ship, this county. The grandparents 
came with their family in 1790 from 
eastern Pennsylvania to Washington county, where 
both died. William Denny was a soldier in the 
Revolutionary war. 

Josiah Denny was born 'June 10, 1798, in Wash- 
ington county, Penn., and passed his youth on the 
home place. On October 19, 1820, he was united 
in marriage with Jane Simcox, who was born Au- 
gust 18, 1798, in this county. They settled on the 
farm in Cecil township now owned by W. T. Denny, 
and children were born to them as follows: Will- 
iam W. (deceased March 3, 1808), a physician and 
surgeon, of Pittsburgh, Penn. ; Joseph, living in 
Noble county, Ohio; Mary (wife of William H. 
McClay), died in October, 1883, at Cumberland, 
Ohio; Martha Jane, Mrs. Hugh Liggett, of Mus- 
kingum county, Ohio; John A., living at Canons- 
burg, Penn.; and W. T., whose sketch follows. 
The father passed away April 1, 1850, followed by 
his widow July 7, 1808. Both were members of 
the Presbyterian Church at Miller's Run. 

W. T. Denny was educated in the schools of the 
home district, and then followed agricultural pur- 
suits. On February 27, 1800, he made choice of 
a life companion in the person of Margaret Tid- 
ball, who was born December 24, 1845, a daughter 
of William and Elizabeth (Nicholson) Tidball, all 
three being natives of Robinson township, Alle- 
gheny Co. , Penn. The father passed away May 
12, 1884, the mother on November, 10, 1849. 

Mr. and Mrs. Denny have resided on the old 
homestead since their marriage. Many improve 
inents have been made on the place since the pres 



ent owner has had possession. A good house and 
two good barns have been erected, one barn having 
been burned. The farm contains seventy -five acres 
of well-cultivated, fertile land. In the autumn of 
1871 Mr. Denny embarked in mercantile business 
at Burgettstown, but in 1870 returned to the old 
place, resuming his former occupation. He votes 
the Republican ticket, and is now serving his sec- 
ond term as a member of the school board. He and 
his wife are members of the U. P. Church at Ven- 
ice, this county. Four children have been born 
to them, viz. : Harry W., William W.,Eva Jane 
and Laura M. 



EiLIJAH MILES. Of the many prominent 
and esteemed citizens of Buffalo township, 
the name of this family ranks among the 
— J first. 

Elijah Miles was a son of Elijah Miles, who was 
born in the State of Virginia in 1705, and in his 
later years removed to Canton township, Washing 
ton Co., Penn. He died August 27, 1834, in 
Ohio, on his farm (where he was settling up his 
business affairs), honored by all who knew him. 
His wife and four children survived him at the date 
of his death. John died in 1891, in Marietta, 
Ohio, at the age of eighty-five years; Mary died 
January 20, 1837, in the twenty eighth year of her 
age; Nancy died April 13, 1837, in the twenty- 
sixth year of her age. Their mother, Elizabeth, 
died at the age of sixty years. 

Elijah Miles, our subject, the only surviving one 
of the four children, was born in Canton township, 
Washington Co., Penn. He moved to Keokuk 
county, Iowa, in 1855, and came back to Buffalo 
township, Washington Co., Penn., in 1850, where 
he permanently settled. Elijah Miles was married 
in 1802 to Caroline, daughter of Lewis Snyder, 
and the children born to this union were Mary, 
wife of Frank M. Caffey, of Buffalo township, Eliz- 
abeth and John. 

Lewis Snyder, father of Mrs. Caroline Miles, 
was born in 1801 in Germany. He was well edu 
cated, and became a soldier in the German army. 
He was married to Catherine Mary Cook, and the 
children born to them were Caroline, who was 
born October 0, 1835, in Germany, and came with 
her parents to America; and Charles, George, 
Louisa, Lewis, William, Catherine and Frank, born 
in America, the last named being now deceased, 
the only one in the Snyder family that has been taken 
away. The living children of this family are all resi- 
dents of Washington county, Penn. In 1844 Mr. Sny- 
der came to America with his family, and first set- 
tled on a farm in Franklin township, Washington 
Co., Penn., where he made his permanent home. 



1214 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



J [AMES A. THOMPSON. Among tin- self- 
made men of Washington county, none are 
I hotter deserving of prominent mention in 
this Biographical Record than the above- 
named citizen. His parents were Allen and 
Martha (Lindsay) Thompson, early pioneers of 
Washington county. The father was born in 17U4, 
and the mother in 17117. The following children 
were born to them: William, John L., Josiah, 
James A., Allen, Martha J., Mary Ann, Harvey 
H , .Sarah, William, John A. (deceased), and 
Ebenezer (deceased). The mother passed away in 
1870, followed by the father in 1872. 

James A. Thompson was born December 10, 
1822, on the home farm in Mt. Pleasant township, 
Washington Co., Penn. He assisted his father in 
the care of the farm and, receiving but little 
financial aid from home, began life with no capital 
but that i if a willing heart, strong hands and cheerful 
spirit. On Christmas Day, 1845, he was united in 
marriage with Margaret Griffith, and soon after 
their wedding he rented his father's farm and con- 
tinued to live there as a tenant for several years, 
finally purchasing the old place. His wife died 
April 3, 1857, leaving two small children: Allen 
and Samuel (deceased), and on March 9, 1858, he 
was joined in wedlock with Margaret, daughter of 
James and Mary (Geis) Kerr. To this union have 
been born four children: Mary Eva, William K. , 
Martha E. and Sadie M. The name of Ella 
Steele, a little orphan girl, completes this family 
circle, for she is cherished as tenderly as their own 
by her foster-parents. Mr. Thompson has done 
all in his power to advance the educational inter- 
ests of the community. He has served as super- 
visor, but though shirking no responsibility, he 
has no desire for political honors. He declares 
that " the Republican party is good enough for 
him," and votes accordingly. He is a wide awake, 
progressive man. In 1858 he sold the old place, 
and bought 156 acres now known as the " Guthrie 
farm," in Chartiers township, and in 1875 bought 
the eighty three acres which is now his home. To 
this he has added thirty-three acres of another 
tract, and is now living near Canonsburg. 




B. DUVALL. The Duvall family, of which 
this gentleman is a prominent representa- 
tive, has for many years been closely asso- 
ciated with the progress and improvement 
of Washington county. 
Alexander and Elizabeth Duvall were natives of 
Maryland, born of French descent. They came to 
Pennsylvania many years ago, and located in 
Washington county, where he lived several years, 
and then settled on a farm in Fayette county, 
near Brownsville, where he died at the age of 
eighty five years. Of their children are named 



John, David, Jacob, Lewis, Eli, Jehu, Hiram and 
Elizabeth, all now deceased. 

David Duvall was born April 7, 1785, in East 
Pike Run township, Washington Co., Penn., and 
passed his youth on the home farm. He began 
life with no financial aid, but. willing hands, an 
active brain and stout bod}' proved sufficient cap 
ital, and he soon acquired a comfortable property, 
all in agricultural pursuits. When a young man 
he was united in marriage with Mary Bailey, who 
was born in 1782, in East Pike Run township, and 
they reared the ^following family of children: 
Nancy, widow of S. Robison, now residing in Cal 
ifornia, Washington Co., Penn.; Eliza, wife of 
John 15. Hanen, of East Pike Run township; Rath, 
widow of George Garrett, a resident of California, 
Washington county; Mary; Alexander R ; John; 
Lewis; Abigail, and Sarah, of whom the four last 
mentioned are now deceased. The father in his 
political affiliations voted with the Republican 
party. He died August 24, 1865, having been pre- 
ceded by his wife in 1862. 

Alexander B. Duvall, son of David and Mary 
(Bailey) Duvall, was born March 1 ( J, 1825, in East 
Pike Run township, Washington Co., Penn. He 
received a subscription-school education, and grew 
to manhood on the home farm, working the old 
place on shares until the death of his father. In 
1870 he was united in marriage with Josephine 
Pester, who was born in Washington county, Penn. , 
a daughter of Moses and Elizabeth (Smith) Pester, 
also natives of this county. Her father was a cab 
inet maker at Coal Centre, Penn., and in politics 
voted with the Democratic party. He and his 
wife died in Coal Centre, leaving two children, 
Ann and Josephine (Mrs. Duvall). To the union 
of Alexander B. and Josephine (Pester) Duvall the 
following children have been born: Emma, David 
R., Nellie S., Carolus, Anna Thames, Chauncy 
Slocum, John Shanton, Flora G., Belva L., Pierre 
L., Alexander V., Cassius A., and Jessie. 

The old homestead contains 210 acres of well- 
cultivated land, and is universally admitted to be 
one of the finest farms in Washington county. In 
1875 Mr. Duvall erected a handsome two-story 
house upon the property, commanding a beautiful 
landscape view for many miles, carrying the eye 
to the mountain beyond. Since 1852 he has been 
a member of the F. & A. M. at Coal Centre. He 
is a fearless, conscientious man, and worships at 
the Disciple Church, his wife being identified with 
the Methodist Episcopal denomination. 



If AMES H. ALLEN. Among the prosperous 
citizens of Carroll township, perhaps none 
([ J ] have had more varied or thrilling experiences 
^^ of life than this gentleman. His grandfather, 
David Allen, was an early settler of Forward town- 
ship, Allegheny Co., Penn., where he carried on 




p ■ 







&^~ ^J^^ 



WASHINGTON < 'OINTY. 



1211 



farming and stock raising, also operating a distill- 
ery. He married Mary Warne, who bore him chil 
dren as follows: John, Dorcas, Joseph, James, 
David, Eliza, Fiances, Mary and Bela. The 
father of this family died about the year 1823. 
He was a leading member of the Presbyterian 
Church at Round Hill, and in politics he was a 
Democrat. 

David P. Allen, father of subject, was born in 
1805, in Forward township, Allegheny Go.,Penn., 
and learned the trade of tanner. He married 
Miss Mary Whorley, and, with the exception of 
short intervals, their lives were passed in Forward 
township, Allegheny county. He owned twenty - 
one acres of coal land, and followed farming dur- 
ing his later years. On October 30, 1889, he 
died, aged eighty-four years six months, leaving 
the following children: James H., Joseph W. (liv- 
ing in Kansas), Ann Eliza (deceased), Dorcas (Mrs. 
McConnell, living in Majors, Buffalo Co., Neb.), 
Bradford (residing near Denver, Colo.), Albert G. 
(a resident of Pittsburgh, Penu.), Florence (Mrs. 
McTeeter, of Braddock, Penn.), and Mrs. Mary J. 
Fleming, of Fayette City, Penn. The mother is 
yet living on the old homestead in Allegheny 
county, Penn., aged eighty-three years. In poli- 
tics the father was a Whig and Republican. 

James H. Allen was born November 23, 1832, 
in Wheeling, \V. Va. , and was brought with his 
parents to Allegheny county, Penn., when an in 
fant. At the age of twenty years he took a course 
of engineering at Brownsville, Penn. , and passed 
fouryearslearningthemachinist's business. After 
completing his studies he became a steamboat en- 
gineer, and for thirty-five years sailed the western 
waters — the Ohio and Mississippi — going as far 
north as St. Paul, and as far south as New Orleans. 
During the Civil war he was engaged in transport 
ing troops and provisions, and was held as a pris- 
oner for some time on the Cumberland river. He 
was on a boat that sank in the Ohio river, near 
Battingrape Island. After the war he returned 
home, and February 28, 1867, he was married to 
Miss M. A. Thompson, daughter of Wilson Thomp- 
son, of Monongahela. The children born to them 
were as follows: Bertha (deceased), Wilson T. , 
Albert and Harry. Wilson Thompson was a na- 
tive of Maryland, whence, when a young man, he 
came to Monongahela, and learned the trade of 
glass blowing, which he followed some time. He 
was married to Margaret, daughter of Elias Wat 
kins, of Monongahela, and the children born to 
them were: Martha A. and William (deceased in 
infancy). The father died in 1872, the mother in 
1840, and both are buried in Monongahela. He 
was a leading member of the M. E. Church, and 
was deeply interested in educational affairs. 

Mr. and Mrs. James H. Allen have a beautiful 
home in Bellwood, near Monongahela, where they 

57 



have resided some fifteen years. They are mem- 
bers of the Methodist Church. Mr. Allen is one 
of the leading citizens of his locality, a typical 
self-mademan, one whose integrity is unquestioned. 
In his political affiliations he is a stanch supporter 
of the Republican party. 



IfOSEPH HAWKINS. The Hawkins family 
have long beeu residents of Pennsylvania. 
f I Robert and Ruth Hawkins (grandparents of 
Joseph) were born in eastern Pennsylvania, 
where they married and reared the following 
children: William (a resident of Newton Falls. 
Trumbull Co.. Ohio), Robert (living in West Beth- 
lehem township, this county), Elizabeth (living in 
Springfield, Ohio, widow of George Taylor), Lydia 
A. (residing in Ohio, widow of Eli Hill), Mary 
(widow of Thomas Dutou, Ohio), Louisa (wife of 
Joseph Weaver, a farmer of Ohio), Elijah, Thomas 
and Gideon, the latter two being deceased. The 
father of this family was a preacher for the Dis- 
ciple Church; in politics lie voted the Republican 
ticket. He died in 1850, at the age of seventy two 
years, after a busy life in agricultural pursuits. 

Elijah Hawkins was born September 17, 1815, 
in West Bethlehem township, Washington Co., 
Penn., and was reared on the farm. He received 
a business education, and began mercantile life at 
Beallsville, tins county, remaining there five years. 
He then moved to Zollarsville, this county, con- 
ducting business in that place for twenty years, 
but finally sold out and retired to his present farm 
in Pike Run township. He was first married to 
Mary A. Greenfield, a native of Washington 
county, Penn., who bore him one daughter, Mary 
A. (wife of James Hedge, a farmer of Jefferson 
county, Iowa). The mother died in 1841, and in 
1842 Elijah Hawkins was married to Elizabeth 
Weaver, who was born in 181"), in Washington 
county, Penn. Their children were as follows: 
Louisa (wife of Isaac Hill, a farmer of West Pike 
Run township), Ruth (Mrs. Stephen Hill, of Polk 
county, Mo.), George (a farmer of Fayette county, 
Penn.), Joseph (of whom a sketch follows), Theo- 
dore (a merchant of Beallsville), Theophilus (farm- 
ing the home place), Walter (farming in West Pike 
Run township), William (deceased) and Avorilla 
(deceased). The mother of these children died in 
188U, in her seventy second year. The father is a 
preacher in the Christian Church, of which both 
his wives were earnest members. In politics he 
votes with the Republican party, and is interested 
in both the civil and religious welfare of the 
people. 

Joseph Hawkins was born September lu, 1848, 
in Beallsville, West Bethlehem township, Wash- 
ington Co., Penn., being reared in the village and 
educated at the public schools. In 1873 he was 



1218 



WASH IN G TON CO UN TV. 



united in marriage with Elizabeth Deemes, who 
was horn September 15, 1841, in Washington 
county, Penn., a daughter of Mark F. and Mar- 
garet Deemes. Her parents were both natives of 
this county, and reared the following children: 
Joshua (a resident of Colorado), George W. (farm 
ing in Beallsville, Penn.), Maria (wife of W. F. 
Wilson, of West Pike Run township, this county), 
Samuel P. (a ranchman of Nebraska), Elizabeth 
(Mrs. Hawkins), and Willie and Oliver, both de 
ceased in infancy. The parents both died in their 
sixty-fifth year. 

To Mr. and Mrs. Hawkins have been born two 
daughters: Maudie and Ada. In politics Mr. 
Hawkins votes the Republican ticket. He is a 
member of no church. 



AMUEL J. GHRIST. one of the most pros- 
perous and influential citizens of Burgetts- 
town, is a son of Isaac Ghrist, who was 
bora in Maryland, where he was reared and 
educated. He was a blacksmith by trade, and in 
early life was united in marriage with Maria Will 
ison, also a native of Maryland, where the young 
people continued to reside for several years after 
their marriage. They then moved to Fayette 
county, Penn., finally going farther west, to near 
fronton, Ohio. The children born to them were: 
Samuel J., John, Peter, Isabel, Isaac, Elias, Will- 
iam, Sabina and Sarah A., of whom Samuel J. is 
the only one living in Washington county. The 
father and other members of the family died of 
cholera during the outbreak of that disease at 
fronton. The mother afterward married Mr. 
McCoy of Ironton, and after his death removed to 
Illinois with her sons, Elias and William, where 
she died. 

Samuel J. Ghrist, the subject proper of this 
sketch, was born January 1, 1818, in the State of 
Maryland, and when a young man came from Fay 
ette county to Smith township, this county. He 
commenced working on a farm for one John Hobbs, 
remaining with him four years, at the end of which 
time he began working on another farm. Several 
years later he purchased a small place, to which 
he added from time to time, and he now owns over 
230 acres of good land in Smith township, and a 
tine residence in Burgettstown. Iu March, 1 S;5S, 
he was united in marriage with Elizabeth, daughter 
of James and Jane (Vance) Stevenson, of Smith 
township, the latter of whom was a daughter of Will- 
iam Vance, of Vance's Fort. The following named 
children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Ghrist: 
Jane, deceased February 15, 1892; Sarah M. ; 
Mai! ha A ; M. Elizabeth; Catherine W., wife of J. 
It. McNary. of Smith township (they have six 
children); Anna M., deceased January 31, 1892, 
was married to G. M.. Miller, of Claysville, now a 



druggist of Burgettstown (had one child, Sara 
Edna); and S. Vance Ghrist, now an attorney at law 
in South Dakota. He married Miss May Putnam, 
who holds the honor of teaching the first school in 
Hand county. S. Dak. They have two children: 
Elizabeth Vance and Bayard Sidney. The mother 
of this family dying March 3, 1854, Mr. Ghrist 
married in August, 1873, Rachel Stroud, of Steu- 
benville, Ohio, who died July 24, 18S8, leaving no 
issue. In 1878 Mr. Ghrist moved to Burgettstown, 
where he is yet residing, his home being cared for 
by his daughters, who are still under the paternal 
roof. His success in life is to be attributed solely 
to his own efforts, which have been untiring, and 
now, a man of about seventy five years of age, he 
is in the enjoyment of good health. Until he was 
twenty years of age he never wore a coat of any 
kind, only a kind of knitted jacket, and his first 
coat he worked for and earned by the sweat of his 
brow. His farm, when he came to it, was but 
partly cleared, but by assiduous labor he highly 
improved it. His present home in Burgettstown 
he bought, besides which he owns other houses in 
that borough. The family are all great readers. 
Catharine and Martha were educators in Washing 
ton and Allegheny counties, and S. V. in Wash- 
ington county and in several western States, and 
has been admitted to the practice of law in Kansas, 
Illinois and South Dakota. In political opinion 
Mr. Ghrist was formerly a Whig, afterward a Re- 
publican upon the organization of the party; has 
been actively interested in politics, and has held 
various township offices. He is a member, and has 
been a liberal supporter, of the Presbyterian 
Church from early youth, at the same time con- 
tributing largely to all charitable and public enter 
prises. 



7 If UGH McDOWELL, a prominent agricult- 
*J tirist of Peters township, is a son of Joseph 
McDowell, ami a grandson of Thomas Mc- 
Jj 4 Dowell. The grandfather was born in Lan- 
caster county, Penn., and followed farming 
and hunting, being an enthusiast in the latter pur- 
suit. In early life he selected a life companion in 
the person of Jeanette Clark, and of the children 
born to their union the following are named: 
Joseph, James and Jane. 

Joseph McDowell, son of Thomas, was born 
about 1790, in Lancaster county, Penn., where he 
grew to manhood. In 1808 he and his father came 
to Washington county, where the latter bought a 
farm in Mt. Pleasant township. After the death 
of his father Joseph worked on neighboring farms, 
and devoted his leisure hours to hunting, many a 
turkey and deer falling beneath his unerring rifle. 
In early life he was married to Eleanor McKnight, 
of Washington county, who bore him seven ehil- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1219 



dren', viz.: John, Joseph, Hugh, Mary, Jane, 
Elizabeth and Ellen; of these Hugh (of whom a 
sketch follows), Ellen and Jane (wife of Benjamin 
Vannatta, of Noblestown, Allegheny county) are 
yet living. 

Hugh McDowell was born September 28, 1815, 
near Hickory, Mt. Pleasant township, Washington 
Co., Penn. His youth was passed in rural pur- 
suits, and at tho age of seventeen years he learned 
carpentry, a trade he followed twenty years. He 
finally purchased 173 acres of land in the Char- 
tiers Valley, taking possession of the place in 1863, 
where he has since carried on general farming, in- 
cluding sheep raising. On February 25, 1847, he 
was united in marriage with Mar}', daughter of 
James McConnell, a pioneer farmer of Cecil town- 
sliip, this county, and their children were as fol- 
lows: Ellen J. (wife of W. J. Johnston), Elizabeth, 
Margaret and Ida (these three died of diphtheria 
in 1861), Samuel (deceased in 1863), Mary M. 
(living at home), John J. (living on a part of the 
Alexander McConnell homestead, being now part 
of the McDowell farm, married to Elizabeth Mc- 
Millian), and Effie A. (living with her parents). 
The daughters all attended the academy at 
Canonsburg. 

Many improvements have been made on the 
place, and Mr. McDowell personally erected the 
handsome buildings thereon. Politically he is a 
stanch Republican, having originally been an Anti- 
slavery Whig, and served as a delegate to the con- 
vention held at Pittsburgh when the Republican 
party was organized. He has held many local of- 
fices, but does not care to take a prominent place 
in politics. In religious faith he is a member of 
the United Presbyterian Church, in which he has 
served in many ways. Mr. McDowell did not in- 
herit a cent, but, by the industry and economy of 
himself and wife, now owns one of the best farms 
in the country. This should serve as an incentive 
to young men in like circumstances, to go and do 
likewise. 

p^J I. WORRELL is a son of Elias, and grand- 
son of Robert Worrell, the latter having 



E 



been a pioneer of Fayette county, Penn. 

Robert was a relative of William Penn. 
Elias Worrell was born in 1798, on his father's 
farm in Fayette county, Penn., and came with his 
parents to Allen township, Washington county, 
when a boy. In early life he was united in mar 
riage with Sarah Allen, a native of Allen township, 
this county, who bore him children as follows: 
Allen, a cabinet maker, who died at California, 
Penn., July 24, 1866; William, a merchant of 
Brownsville, Penn., who died June 19, 1872; 
John, a clerk on a steamboat, died July 25, 1872, 
at Brownsville, and Joshua, who enlisted in 1862, 
in the Eighteenth Cavalry, under General Kil- 



patrick. After the war he moved to Kansas, then 
returned to Washington county, where he died 
February 22, 1872. For his second wife Elias 
Worrell married Aves Smith, a native of East Pike 
Run township, and their children were S. W., 
wife of C. L. Kinder, who died in 1892, at Scenery 
Hill; Mary Elizabeth, wife of E. A. Williams, of 
East Pike Run township, and E. I., whose name 
opens this sketch. Mr. and Mrs. Worrell always 
resided in Allen township. Mr. Worrell owned 
land in Wooster, Ohio. In politics he was an 
active Republican, having held various local offices. 
He died May 1, 1873, having been preceded to the 
grave by his wife July 6, 1861. 

E. I. Worrell was born November 12, 1848, on 
the home farm in Allen township, Washington 
county, received a district-school education and 
also attended the Normal at California, Peuu. He 
was married March 2, 1881, to Emma, daughter 
of George W. and Caroline ( Kiggs) Hazelbaker, 
and a native of Allen township, this county. Her 
parents were born in Washington county. Both 
parents are now living in this county. Mr. and 
Mrs. Worrell have had three children, namely: 
J. H., Cora and Irwin. The father is an active 
member of the Republican party, and has held the 
position of county auditor since the fall of 1890, 
receiving 6,686 votes. The farm contains 106 
acres of good land. In religious faith Mr. and 
Mrs. Worrell are members of the Methodist Church 
at, Ebenezer. He studied pharmacy when a young 
man, with the intent ion of becoming a druggist; 
but at the solicitation of his father, took charge of 
the farm and has ever since been an agriculturist. 
Mr. Worrell has been a member of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church since boyhood, serving as super- 
intendent of Sabbath school, secretary of the board 
of trustees and leader of the choir. He has been 
administrator, trustee and assignee of many es- 
tates, and has always been faithful in every posi- 
tion. 

[( BRAM COLVIN is a son of Stephen Colvin, 
l\ whose father, Vincent, was an early settler 
1\ of Fallowfield township. The latter in- 
vested largely in land, having at one time 
owned nearly 2,000 acres in Fallowfield 
township. On March 28, 1780, he received a 
grant for the home place, which was situated on 
Pigeon creek, and contained 470 acres. The fol- 
lowing children were born to Vincent Colvin: 
Stephen (who inherited 200 acres of the old place), 
John, Vincent, Joshua, Moses, Lott, Agnes (Mrs. 
Powell), Susanua (Mrs. Wilson), Charlotte (Mrs. 
Frye), Lucy (Mrs. Frye) and Harriet, who married 
a Baxter. 

Stephen Colvin was born in 1778, in Fallowfield 
township, Washington Co., Penn., and became a 
leading agriculturist, devoting special attention to 




1220 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



stock raining. He was married to Mary, daughter 
of Ahram Frye, who married a Miss Wilson, of 
Washington county, who bore him thirteen chil- 
dren, whose names are given as follows: Hester, 
Julia, Nancy, Abrain, Lucinda, Sarah, Stephen, 
Mary, Elizabeth, John, Lewis, Rebecca and Vin- 
cent, of whom Vincent and Lewis enlisted in the 
army, Vincent dying while in the seivice. The 
father died in 1846. 

Abram Col vin was born April 21, 1820, on the 
homestead in Fallowfield township, and his educa- 
tion was received in the log-cabin schoolhouse of 
the district. In 1848 he was married to Miss 
Frye, daughter of Abraham, and granddaughter of 
Samuel Frye, a farmer of Washington county, who 
erected the first house on the west side of the 
Monongahela river, in this county. Samuel Frye 
was born in 1729, in Virginia, and was there mar- 
ried to Christina Speers, who was born in 1752 in 
the same State. They came overland to Washing- 
ton county at a very early day, and July 19, 1792/ 
took out a ''tomahawk right" to a large tract of 
land in Fallowfield township, where the Gibson 
distillery is now located. He was a famous 
hunter, and also worked on the farm, remaining 
in the neighboring fort at night for protection "from 
the Indians. He died in 1814, his widow, Novem- 
ber 9, 1841. 

Abraham Frye, sou of Samuel and Christina 
(. Speers) Frye, was boru in 1792, on the homo 
farm in Fallowfield township. He received a 
subscription school education, and in early life was 
married to Isabella Ringland, a native of Wash- 
ington countv. who bore him eleven children, 
namely: Samuel and John, both in Allen town- 
ship; Christina, Mrs. Abram Colvin; Abraham, 
wlio entered the service in Washington county, and 
is now living near Nashville, Tenn. ; Henry, a 
resident of Sumner county, Tenn., on the Cumber 
land river; Noah, who died in Fallowfield town- 
ship; Sarah, wife of Thomas McGowan, Lock No. 4, 
same township; Jackson, living in Cowley county, 
Ivans., enlisted and was taken prisoner, being con 
fined in Andersonville prison eleven months; 
Clarissa, married to Alexander Allman, and died in 
East Pike Run township; Smith; and Isabelle.wife 
of Elgy T. Van Voorhis, of Kansas City, Mo. 
After their marriage Abraham and Isabella Frye 
settled on the lower part of the old homestead in 
Fallowfield township. He was actively interested 
in public matters, first affiliating with the Demo- 
cratic party, then becoming a Whig and Repub . 
lican. lie died December 11, 1866, followed by his 
widow April 12, 1881, she having lived to see her 
youngest daughter the mother of twelve children. 
Roth parents were members of the Disciple 
Church. 

Mr. and Mrs. Colvin are the parents of seven 
children, namely: Stephen, Belle Abram. Chris 



tiana, Smith, Fremont and Ellsworth, of whom the 
youngest child has for the past five years been a 
resident of Los Angeles, Cal. The home farm 
contains 110 acres of land, located about five miles 
southwest of Monongahela City, where Mr. Colvin 
deals extensively in stock. Politically, he votes 
with the Republican party. 



li ffENRY M. CONKLIN, one of the most 

k— 4 prominent of the agricultural citizens of 

Morris township, is a native of the same, 

J) ~ J born April 12, 1835. He is a worthy rep- 

~' resentative of one of the pioneer families 

of his native township. 

John Conklin. his grandfather, was born in New 
Jersey, and in 1790 moved with his family to Mor 
ris township, Washington Co., Penn., locating 
near the town of Sparta. John Conklin had seven 
children, of whom one son, Isaac, was born in the 
State of Pennsylvania in 1805. In 1825 he was 
married to Lydia Sears, also a native of Pennsyl- 
vania, and the following children were born to this 
union: Sarah Ann (deceased wife of William 
Rogers, of Iowa), Elizabeth (living in Greene 
county, Penn., the widow of Morgan Thompson), 
John (a farmer of the same county), William (a 
farmer near Van Buret), in Morris township), 
Henry M., Oliver S. (a resident of Missouri), 
Margaret (living in the State of Kansas, married 
to John A. W. Dyer), Samuel A. (a prominent 
practicing physician of Canton, Ohio), Stephen 
Munroe (a farmer of Morris township), Warren 
B. (living near Sparta, this county), and Lydia 
Viola (wife of I. N. Lucas, a physician in North 
Dakota). 

Henry M. Conklin, whose name opens this sketch, 
received a limited education at the common schools 
of the home district, and at the age of twenty- 
one years commenced to learn the trade of paint- 
ing with his brother John, his financial wealth 
being, at the start, very limited indeed. After 
working at his trade for a number of years in the 
different parts of the county, and in Western Vir- 
ginia, he returned in 1861 to Washington county. 
On February 28, 1861, he was united in marriage 
with Jerusha Jane Blakeway, a native of East 
Finley township, this county, daughter of Eliza- 
beth and Humphrey Blakeway, both of whom 
died in that township, and lie buried in the grave 
yard at Old Concord, Penn. On March 14, 1861, 
Mr. and Mrs. Conklin moved to their present home, 
which is now a well-improved farm situated two 
miles northeastof Prosperity, where he has erected 
one amongst the finest residences in the township. 
Mrs. Jerusha Jane Conklin died September 26, 
1889, and lies buried in the cemetery at Prosperity. 
On October :i 1 . I SKI, Mr. H. Conklin married 
Miss Mattie Sampson, daughter of Abraham 




i$m 



& 0&. T&^M^ 



WASHING TON COUN TY 



1223 



Sampson, of East Finley township, and one son, 
Grover Stephenson, was born to them September 
6, 1892. Politically Mr. Conklin has been a 
Democrat, and has served as inspector of elections 
in his township. In 1853 he became united with 
the Church of Upper Ten-Mile, at Prosperity, 
Washington Co., Pennsylvania. 



JjOHN A. McCALMONT, one of the leading 
I dairymen and a successful agriculturist of 
| Robinson township, is a native-born citizen. 
John McCalmout (his grandfather) was of 
the fearless and sturdy Scottish race, and possess- 
ing an adventurous spirit, decided to seek the 
New World. In early manhood he came to 
America, following the blacksmith's trade, during 
the early part of his life in York county, afterward 
settling on a farm in Mt. Pleasant township, this 
county, where eight children were born to him. 
He died in 1858. 

James McCalmout (the eldest son of the Scotch 
immigrant just mentioned) was born January 31, 
1807, in York county, coming with his parents to 
Mt. Pleasant township at the age of one year, 
where he was reared and educated. On May 31, 
1835, he was united in marriage with Sarah Mc 
Burney. who was born April 7, 1811. a daughter 
of John McBuruey, whose father, James McBur 
ney, was a common ancestor of the McBuruey 
family of the present generation. James McBur- 
uey was born in County Down, Ireland, and there 
learned merchant tailoring. In 1762 he was mar- 
ried to Jeanett Milligau, and they had two chil- 
dren: John and Elizabeth. In 1783 they came to 
America and settled in Washington county, Penn. 
Mr. McBurney was prominent in both political 
and church work, serving as justice of the peace 
in Cecil township until obliged to resign his posi- 
tion on account of enfeebled health. He was one 
of the first ruling elders of the Associate Reformed 
Church. He died August 11, 1820, having passed 
the age of fourscore years. 

John McBurney was born in County Down, Ire- 
land, and came with his parents to America. In 
1703 be was married to Sarah Hunter, a native of 
Pennsylvania and a^member of the Associate Re- 
formed Church. A large family were born to the 
union, as follows: Jennie, James, Esther, John, 
Eliza, Robert, Sarah, David and Samuel, and of 
these Sarah was married to James McCalmont. 

James and Sarah (McBurney) McCalmont be- 
gan their wedded life on a farm near Hickory, 
this county, where they remained four years, and 
then, in 1839, came to Robinson township, where 
he remained until his death, which occurred in 
1800, when he was in his eighty-third year. He 
was elected an elder in the United Presbyterian 
Church at Burgettstown, in 1839, and in 1863 
transferred his membership to Centre, where he 



was again elected and installed elder, serving many 
years in that capacity. He was a Republican, 
actively interested in the success of his party, and 
served as school director several years, also justice 
of the peace two terms. His children were as fol 
lows: Mary, Lizzie, John A., James P., Sarah 
H., David A., R. M., Esther Agnes, and Kate (the 
latter being deceased). 

John A. , son of James and Sarah (McBurney) 
McCalmont, was born February 22, 1840, and re 
ceived a common business education. On August 
22, 1862, he enlisted in Company K, One Hundred 
and Fortieth P. V. I., under Capt. William A. 
Stockton, of Cross Creek township, Washington 
county. He served with his regiment in all the 
principal battles and in anumberofskirmish.es, 
remaining until the close of the war in 1865. 
After returning home he engaged in agricultural 
pursuits, which he has since followed with success. 
In February, 1870, be was united in marriage 
with Anna B. Keys, who was born in 1846, a na- 
tive of Washington county, and five children were 
born to them, namely: James K., Mary J., John 
O, Sarah M. and one deceased. The mother was 
a member of the U. P. Church. She passed away 
in 1880, and on June 15, 1887, Mr. McCalmont 
was married to Minnie Henderson, who was born 
November 5, 1853, in Washington county, a 
daughter of Alexander Henderson. The latter's 
grandfather was Rev. Matthew Henderson, who 
was born in Scotland and, coming to America at an 
early day, preached the first sermon in English 
west of the mountains in Pennsylvania. He died 
in 1795. His son Robert was a farmer, and in 
early manhood was married to Elizabeth Russell. 
He died in December, 1866. Alexander Hender- 
son, son of Robert Henderson, was born in April, 
1809, and when a young man was united in mar 
riage with Nancy Watson, who was born in March, 
1819. They had eleven children, five of whom 
are now living: Mary W., Robert M.. Lizzie, Min- 
nie (Mrs. John A. McCalmont) and Rebecca. The 
father died in April, 1890, the mother having pre- 
ceded him in February, 1864. Both were members 
of the United Presbyterian Church. Mr. McCal- 
mont has a farm of 154 acres, and carries on a 
very extensive milk-dairy. He and his wife are 
members of the Centre United Presbyterian 
Church of Midway. In politics Mr. McCalmont is 
a Republican. 

JfOSEPH SCOTT, one of the oldest, and un- 
doubtedly one of the most robust men of his 
) age in Independence township, is descended 
from a prominent family. He is a son of 
Arthur Scott, who was born in 1761, in Lan- 
caster county, Penn., and there passed his boy- 
hood days. When only a stripling he joined the 
Continental army, and served during the war of the 



1224 



WASHINGT<>\ COt'.XTY. 



Revolution. H« was one <>f those half-clothed and 
nearly starved heroes who suffered in that never 
t<> be Forgotten winter at Valley Forge. He wan 
sick for many weeks; be Berved as a teamster in 
the struggle, and has often related to liis son 
Joseph the terrible scenes of those early days, the 
outlines of which are familiar to every student of 
United States history. 

At the close of the war young Arthur resolved to 
seel; a home ill the wilds of western Pennsylvania. 
of which he had heard thrilling tides of adventure. 
After a long and tedious journey, traveling l>y nar 
row paths through unbroken forests, the sun his 
only compass, our daring pioneer at last came to 
the eastern boundary of Washington county, and 
paused for a time at a place called Ginger Hill. 
He there met Miss Ann Hamilton, the young lady 
he afterward wooed and won. She was born iu 
the year I T7*i, in Adams county, Penn., near Get- 
tysburg. In 1786 Arthur Scott came with his 
older brother. Samuel, to Washington county, and 
bought 175 acres of land, lying near Buffalo creek, 
about one mile from the Pennsylvania and West 
Virginia (then Virginia) lines, in Hopewell (now 
Independence) township. It was then an un- 
broken forest, and the Indians, who had but recent 
ly moved across the river into Ohio, often made 
raids through (heir former hunting grounds. Dur 
ing these periods of danger, the pioneers were 
compelled to seek a temporary refuge in the blocli 
houses constructed for that purpose. Wild ani- 
mals were numerous; hears, deer, and wild turkeys 
roamed through the forest, and the unearthly 
scream of the panther made the night hideous to 
human ears. After purchasing their land, the 
two brothers erected a log cabin, and began the 
herculean task of clearing away the forest. Rut 
the toil and privations were endured with the 
lightest of hearts, for each of the young men were 
looking eagerly forward to a happy home in the 
very near future. When the first cabin was 
finished, Samuel brought home his young wife, 
and they then begun to prepare for the coming of 
Arthur's bride. But the plans of one were doomed 
to disappointment. One day Samuel Scott, in com 
pany with a brother in law, .lames Law, crossed 

the Ohio river in search of game. They soon Sep 
arated, promising to join each other at a given 
point, and, after a circuitous course, Scott came 
to the place of me'ting and waited for Law. 
Meanwhile Law had approached the place in 
search of game, and, mistaking him for a deer, 
fired, and the unfortunate man fell dead. The 
news of the terrible accident was broken to the 
young wife, who continued to reside on the farm 
with her two children —Joseph anil John for 
some time. She was afterward married to a Mr. 
Hutchinson, and the home place eventually became 
the property of her son John. He took charge of 



it in the year 1808, and with his wife (formerly a 
Miss Ferguson) resided upon it till the year 1830, 
when it was then purchased of him by his cousin 
Joseph. 

Soon after they had erected the cabin of Samuel 
Scott, Arthur also built his home on a part of the 
original tract, and in 1780 he was married to Ann 
Hamilton. This couple pasjsed their entire lives on 
the home farm, and reared the following children: 
William (deceased September 20, 1851), born No- 
vember 20, 1790, moved to a farm in Richland 
county, Ohio, which he cleared from the forest, 
and there remained until bis death: John, born 
March 6, 17112, during his youth hauled loads of 
salt and merchandise over the mountains (just be- 
fore the war of 1812 he hauled a wagon load of 
specie for the Government from Philadelphia to 
Pittsburgh, being accompanied by a detachment of 
soldiers. For this service he received $10 per 
cwt.); Elizabeth (deceased August 8, 1866), bom 
August 8. 1794, was the wife of Walter Craig, a 
well known politician, statesman and legislator of 
Washington county; Agnes (deceased February I I. 
1869), horn February 3. 1797, wife of William 
Gilmore, of Ohio county, W. Va. ; Mary, wife of 
John Alexander, born February IS, 1 791* ; David 
(deceased in 1887. at Portsmouth. Ohio), born 
January 12. 1801, learned piano and organ mak 
ing in Philadelphia, and afterward became a piano 
tuner; Samuel (deceased March 25, 186(1, at the 
home of his brother Joseph), born March P», 1803. 
passed his early life on the farm, afterward be- 
coming a merchant in Pittsburgh; Jane (deceased 
July 22, 1886), born November 11, 1805, was mar- 
ried to Hugh Miller, of Knox county; Joseph (sub- 
ject of the present sketch): and Margaret Ann 
(deceased March 15. 1838, at her home in Inde- 
pendence township, Washington county), born No- 
vember 10. 1811, wife of Henry Smith. 

Although Arthur Scott had but a limited early 
education, by close application and observation he 
became a well informed and fluent man, and was 
an eager reader. He never tasted whisky, was a 
strong advocate of temperance, and an earnest re 
ligious worker. The "still house" that was found 
on almost every farm in those days was "conspic- 
uous by its absence" on the farm of Mr. Scott, 
who instilled the same principles into the minds of 
his children. Politically he was first a Democrat, 
but after the election of Andrew Jackson, became a 
Whig. In the latter part of hislife he lived with his 
son Joseph until the time of his death, which OC- 
itiviI .1 uly 24, 1843. His widow survived him S6V 
era! years, when she passed away October 15, 1848, 
while visiting a daughter in Summit county, Ohio. 

Joseph Scott was the ninth child in the order 
of birth, and was horn May 12, 1808, in Hope 
well (now Independence) (ownship. and passed 
hi-- earlier years attending to thecommou duties of 



II ASHINOTON COUNTY 



1 225 



a farmer boy. He received his education in tlit> 
usual log hut, which required neither nails nor 
glass in its construction, greased paper serv- 
ing all practical purposes as a window. The 
teacher was hired by a subscription from those 
of the parents who felt inclined to pay for the in- 
struction. Adventurous urchins had no lack of 
material sport, for in those days wild animals were 
often seen, and bears were frequent visitors in the 
neighborhood. Joseph Scott attended school 
about three months in the winter season, and dur- 
ing the summer assisted on the farm. On August 
22, 1832, he was united in marriage with Eliza- 
beth Cozad (who was born November 1 1, 18(17, in 
Carroll county, Ohio), daughter of Jacob Cozad. a 
Presbyterian minister of New Hagerstown, Ohio. 
They have had children as follows: John (a farmer 
of Independence township), born August 16, 1833; 
Margaret Ann (deceased in 1837), born August 3, 
1835; William H. (deceased, a farmer of Wash- 
ington State), born Jauuary 20, 1S37; Elizabeth J. 
(Mrs. George U. Chaney, of West Alexander), 
bom March 22, 1839; Rebecca B. (Mrs. Klinefel- 
ter, of Washington, Penn.), born February 4, 1 S4 1 ; 
David A. (a merchant of Independence. Penn i. 
born December 2, 1842; Joseph (a farmer of Osage 
county, Kaus.), born January 3, 1845; Jacob O. 
(a citizen of Washington, this county), born De- 
cember 27, 1848; and Sarah M. (Mrs. Thomas 
Lang, of Grafton, W. Va.). born October ,">, 1849. 
After his marriage Mr. Scott took charge of the 
home place, as his father was growing old, and re- 
mained upon it until 1887. following his vocation 
of farming and stock raising. His wife died on 
January 25. of that year, and he afterward moved 
to the home of his son David, where he has since 
remained. He is now livings a retired life, but 
still owns the old place. Mr. Scott happily pos 
sesses a very retentive memory, and easily recalls 
incidents of his boyhood as if they had occurred 
but yesterday. No man is better known, or more 
highly respected than this gentleman. He organ- 
ized and was the prime mover in the first Sabbath- 
school held in the Presbyterian Church, in Inde- 
pendence. Penn., of which he has been a member 
for sixty five years, serving as elder fifty four 
years. Politically, he has ever been an enthusias- 
tic supporter of the Republican party since its 
formation, previous to which he was a Whig. He 
has never missed a county, township, State or 
national election since he was old enough to vote, 
and was an active Anti-slavery man. In addition 
to his regular business, he has performed many 
public duties, having been guardian for twelve 
children at one time. He was colonel in the Tenth 
Pennsylvania Militia for four years and is fre- 
quently called by that title. • 

[Since the above was written, the subject of the sketch 
died January 1, 1893. 



FINLEY SCOTT, a skilled blacksmith and 
energetic husbandman of Smith township, 
is a sou of Finley and grandson of Abraham 
Scott. Abraham Scott was born and reared 
in Maryland, and when a young man came to Pitts- 
burgh, Penn., afterward settling in Washington 
county with his brother Alexander. He purchased 
a tract of wild land on Raccoon creek, Robinson 
township, this county, where his life was passed in 
agricultural pursuits. He was married In .lane, a 
sister of John Finley, the founder of Fiuleyville, 
and reared the following children: Rachel (Mrs. 
James Russell), Mary (wife of Thomas Fletcher), 
Ann (married to James Kerr), Jane (wife of David 
White), Elizabeth (Mrs. William Scott), Sus<m 
(married to John McBride) Abraham, Finley, Hoi 
land and Samuel. The father was a Democrat in 
politics, and in religion a member of the Presby- 
terian Church at Raccoou. 

Finley Scott was born in 1800, in Robinson town- 
ship, this county, and here educated. In 1822 he 
married Margaret, daughter of -lames Stephenson. 
of Smith township. The young people first set- 
tled on a farm in Robinson township, remaining 
there a few years, when they rented a neighboring 
farm, afterward purchasing a place in Smith town- 
ship where they lived twenty years, and finally 
moved to the home where the remainder of their 
lives was passed. The children of this couple are 
Ann, Robert K., Samuel, James, Finley, John, 
Levi, Jane F. (Mrs. William Coweni and .Marga- 
ret (wife of Thomas Ackleson). Mr. Scott was the 
architect of his own fortune, and owned 45(1 acres 
of laud at the time of his death, which occurred in 
1879. He was a Democrat and held various town- 
ship offices. In ohurch connection he was first a 
member of the United Presbyterian Church at 
Burgettstown, this county, afterward uniting with 
the Associate Reformed Church, in which he was 
an elder. Both he and his wife are buried in the 
U. P. cemetery. 

Finley Soott, the subject of this biography, was 
born December 10, 1831, on the " Hanover Farm " 
in Smith township, receiving a common-school edu- 
cation. In early youth he learned the black- 
smith's trade with Josiah Scott, of Burgettstown, 
which he followed until 1852, when, with his 
brother James and a few others, he started for 
California. They traveled to New York, then took 
passage to Aspiuwall by the steamer "Eldorado;" 
they crossed the Isthmus, walking the last twenty - 
one miles, and upon arriving at Panama one of tlre^r 
number was attacked with the ' ' Isthmus fever. ' ' He\ 
soon was able to continue the journey, and they 
sailed for San Francisco on the steamer " J. L. 
Stevens," but when opposite San Pedro bay, 
the steamer was disabled. Assistance was soon 
brought from San Francisco, but not long after 
reaching theendof their journey, William Shields, 



1 -2-2C> 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



the sick companion, died and was buried at San 
Francisco. Finley Scott proceeded with liis friends 
from San Francisco to Eldorado county, and fol- 
lowed mining with fair succesB. Mr. Scott after- 
ward worked at his trade in California, but 
eventually returned to Burgettatown, this county. 
In September, 1857, he was married to Theresa 
A. Crawford, who was horn August 1, 1838, 
daughter of Thomas Crawford, of Burgettstown, 
Penn., who has borne him children as follows: 
Fiance L. (an engineer on the P. C. C. & St. L. 
li. I; I. Thomas L. (an engineer on the same rail- 
way), Samuel J. (deceased in infancy), Clara A. 
(living at home), John E. (an employe of the B. 
& 0. R. R. Co. at Cincinnati. Ohio), Ella M. (liv- 
ing with her parents), Theresa Bell ami Laura A. 
(twins, living at home), Annie E. and Charles L. 
(both residing on the home farm). Mr.and Mrs. Fin 
ley Scott began married life in Burgettstown, this 
county, where he followed his trade till 1866, and 
then moved to a farm about one mile and a half 
northwest of that borough, in Smith township. In 
1NN1 he removed to his present pleasant home, 
situated on the Florence road two miles from 
Burgettstown. He has since divided his time be- 
tween his trade and agricultural pursuits, shipping 
some milk to Pittsburgh. Personally Finley Scot! 
is a very pleasaut and entertaining conversa- 
tionalist, and is a popular and respected citizen. 
In politics he is a Democrat. Both he and his 
wife are members of the Presbyterian Church at 
Burgettstown. 



/GEORGE W. DIWALL is a grandson of 
Lewis and Hannah Duvall, who were pio 
VIj neer settlers of Washington county, Penn., 

^Ta and died on the home farm. 

John Duvall, father of subject, was born 
and reared on the home place in Washington 
county, and always followed agricultural pursuits, 
giving considerable attention to stock raising. 
He voted with the Republican party. He was 
first married to Mary Tarty, who bore him seven 
children, viz.: George W. , Hannah. Amanda 
(wife of William Hornbake, of West Pike Run 
township), Ellen (married to Frank Bake, a car- 
penter, of Allenport, this county), Elizabeth, 
Lewis, and John L. (a farmer of Fayette county. 
Penn.). The mother died in 1869, and Mr. Duvall 
was then married to Elizabeth Lash, whose chil- 
dren were Tory (deceased), Robert. Isaac (both of 
whom are living in Charleroi, Washington county), 
William (a painter of Charleroi). and Frank (a 
farmer, of Fayette county, Penn.). The father 
die.l October :!." INN I. and April 27, 1885, the wife 
and mother passed away. She was a member of 
the M. E. Church. 

George W. Duvall. son of John and Mary Du- 



vall, was born January 5, 1853, in West Pike Run 
township, Washington Co., Penn., and was edu- 
cated in the district schools. On February 22, 
1877, he married Miss Maggie Marker, who was 
born September 8, 1854, in Washington county, 
Penn., a daughter of Lewis anil Eliza (Williams) 
Marker, natives of this county, whose children 
were as follows: John, a resident of West Browns 
ville, Penn. ; William, living in East Pike Run 
township; James, living in West Brownsville; 
Charles, also of West Brownsville; Maggie, wife 
of George W. Duvall, and Mary, deceased. The 
father followed farming all his life, and in politics 
voted with the Democratic party. He died Au- 
gust 31, 1891, his wife having passed away in 
1802. They were members of the M. E. Church 
George W. and Maggie (Marker) Duvall have two 
sons: Charles W., born September 16, 1880, and 
John L., born August 23. 1883. Mr. Duvall owns 
the old homestead of eighty four acres, where liis 
grandfather first located many years ago. In 
politics he is a Republican, and he has served as 
school director for the past three years. 



with 



JIOHN COOK was born October 1, 17N7, in 
Ohanibersbiirg, Franklin Co. , Penn., a son of 
I Robert and Mary (Brown) Cook, who were 
born, reared and married in Ireland. In 
1785 they emigrated to America, first locating in 
Chamhershuig. Franklin Co., Penn., and in 1787 
crossed the country to Washington county, locat- 
ing on the farm where their descendants are yet 
living. They passed their lives on the old place, 
makintr many improvements on it. Robert and 
Mary Cook were members of the Associate Re- 
formed Church, and both died many years ago. 
Their children were Jane, Martha, Archibald, 
John and Margaret. 

John Cook, at the age of ten years, ci 
his parents to Cecil township, this county, where 
ho passed the rest of his days in agricultural pnr 
suits. On April 7, 1814, he was united in mar- 
riage with Olevia Coulter, a native of Allegheny 
county, Penn., who bore him six children, namely: 
Robert (deceased). Moses C. (a widower, living in 
Bridgeville, Allegheny Co., Penn.). John (mar 
ried, residing in Belmont county, Ohio), Jane, 
Mary and Margaret, all three deceased. The 
mother died August 22, 1824, having been fatally 
injured by an accident while returning from 
church, and February 16, 1N26, Mr. Cook married 
Ursula Herriott, a native of Allegheny county, 
Penn.. by which union five children were born, 
viz.: George H. (married, a physician and surgeon 
of McDonald, Penn.), Archibald (deceased), Sam 
lie! H. (of whom special mention is made further on), 
Elizabeth and Hester (both deceased). This wife 
died July 7. 1838, and on March 10, 1840, Mr. 





-%f,M2.lD<>-crfc 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1229 



Cook made a third choice in the person of Nancy 
Grier, who was bora in 1802, in Allegheny county, 
Penn., and one son, N. G. , came by this marriage. 
The father, in his political affiliations, voted with 
the Democratic party, and served as supervisor of 
( 'ceil township. He and his wife were members of 
the U. P. Church at Robinson's Run, in which he 
was an elder. He died August 4, 1861, and March 
2, 1804, his widow was laid to rest. 

Samuel H. Cook, sou of John and Ursula (Her 
riott) Cook, was reared on the home place, and re- 
ceived his education in the common schools. He 
remained at heme until twenty-five years of age, 
meanwhile working on the farm. In 1868 lie 
moved to McDonald, where he embarked in the 
undertaking business, and in 1882 he opened a 
general store, which he conducted eight months; 
then engaged iu the furniture business, which, in 
connection with undertaking, he still conducts; he 
also does embalming. Mr. Cook has made his own 
success, and deservedly enjoys the confidence of 
tin- public. In April, 1857, he was married to 
Rebecca, daughter of James Donaldson, by which 
union was born one child that died in infancy, its 
mother following it to the grave in 1858. On June 
5, 1861, Mr. Cook married Mary A., daughter of 
Andrew Gilfillan, of Allegheny county, Penn.. and 
three children were born to them: Nancy Crier 
(wife of Prof. J. M. Shaffer, of Slippery Rock), 
Dora (deceased at the age of eighteen) and Mary 
E., at home. The mother of these children dying 
December 22. 1884, Mr. Cook married, for his 
third wife, March 14, 1892, Amanda C. Smith, of 
Pittsburgh. He is a member of the U. P. Church 
and for the past twenty-five years has been an 
elder in same — about ten years at Robinson's Run, 
the remainder of the time at McDonald. He was 
a substantial donator toward the building of the 
present IT. P. Church at McDonald. 

N. G. Cook, only son of John and Nancy (Grier) 
Cook, was born July 8, 1842, on the home farm in 
Cecil township, where he was reared, receiving his 
early education in the common schools of the 
neighborhood. On March 28. 1872, he was united 
in marriage with N. Isabella Gladden, a native of 
Smith township, daughter of William and Nancy 
(Brown) Gladden, and granddaughter of William 
and Mary Ann (Woods) Gladden, the former born 
in eastern Pennsylvania, the latter in England. 
William Gladden (a son of this couple) was born 
in 1797, in Cecil township, and in early manhood 
was married to Nancy Brown, who was born in 
1800, in Allegheny county, Penn., a daughter of 
John and Mary (Acheson) Brown, natives of Lan- 
caster county, Penn., who migrated to Noblest own, 
Allegheny county, in 1792, and in 1800 moved to a 
farm in South Fayette township, same county. He 
died in 1848, having been preceded to the " long 
home" several years by his wife. Mr. and Mrs. 



Gladden resided on a farm in Smith towuship, this 
county, until 1855, when they moved to a place in 
Allegheny county, where the rest of their lives was 
passed. They were the parents of three children: 
Mary Ann (who married Joseph McConnell, and 
died in 1863), William (married, died in 1872) and 
N. Isabella (wife of N. G. Cook). The father died 
iu 1871, the mother on December 31, 1884; they 
were members of the Robinson Run U. P. Church. 
N. G. and N. Isabella (Gladden) Cook located 
on the farm where they are now living, containing 
212 acres of good land, which has been in the 
possession of the family over one hundred years. 
Four children have blessed their union: Nannie B. 
(deceased in March, 1888, at the age of fourteen 
years and six months), John L. , William G. and 
Isabella Haddessa. Mr. Cook votes with the Demo- 
cratic party, and has served as a member of the 
school board. He and his wife are members of 
the United Presbvterian Church at Robinson's Run. 



D 



AVID WHITE is a well-known farmer and 
worthy representative of one of the oldest 
Pennsylvania families. His grandfather. 
James White, was born in eastern Pennsyl- 
vania, coming with his parents to North Strabane 
township, Washington county, where he died in 
1835. 

James, son of James White, was born in 1788, 
on the home farm in North Strabane township, 
where his youth was passed. In early manhood he 
was married to Isabella May, who was born De- 
cember 11, 1798, in Cecil township. He served in 
the war of 1812 as first lieutenant, and in politics 
was a Whig, casting his Presidential vote for Gen. 
William H. Harrison. In April. 1827, the young 
people settled on a farm in Cecil township, and 
the following children were born to their union: 
Jane Ann (deceased in 1866), Margaret (widow of 
John Ralston, of Cecil township), Phoebe (deceased 
in youth), John M. (living in Wayne county, Ohio), 
David (whose sketch follows), Eliza Jane (widow 
of William Stewart, of Canton township), Samuel 
(living in Canonsburg) and Phoebe (widow of John 
McLaughlin, of Chartiers township). The parents 
were members of the Seceder Church at Chartiers 
The father died in 1871, having been preceded in 
1863 by the mother. 

David White, whose name opens this sketch, was 
born May 30, 1832, in Cecil township, receiving 
his education in the schools of the neighborhood. 
On January 7, 1864, he selected as his life com 
panion Anna E. Anderson, a native of Chartiers 
township. She was a daughter of John and Ann 
(White) Anderson, the former a native of Ireland. 
and the latter born in Chartiers township, where 
their married life was passed. He died in 1868, 
and his widow lived several years afterward. Two 



1230 



i l 'A SHIN G TON CO UN TY. 



children were born to the union of David and Anna 
E. (Anderson) White: James R. (who married Anna 
Scott, and lives in Cecil township), and Annie Bell, 
who died in infancy. The mother died December 
15, 1866, in Chartiers township, where they had 
resided after their marriage. In 1809 Mr. White 
moved to Cecil township, and was married Novem- 
ber 11, 1869, to Lizzie E., daughter of Joseph and 
Martha (Anderson) Reed. Joseph was a son of 
David Reed, who was born and reared in Lan- 
caster county, Penn. David Reed was married in 
early life, and brought his bride to the farm in Mt. 
Pleasant township, where they remained until Gen.- 
Washington had proven his title to this tract of 
laud. The famous General took dinner one day 
with Mr. and Mrs. Reed, and is said to have de- 
clared that he would allow the settlers no rights or 
compensation for improvements, but would take 
possession of the land, offering, however, to sell it 
at an exorbitant price. Mr. Reed harvested his 
crop, and September 22, 1784, bought and moved 
upon a place in Cecil township, this county. He 
died in 1824, his widow surviving him until 1840. 
Joseph Reed was born April 30, 1796, on the 
home farm in Cecil township, where his boyhood 
was passed. He was first married to Elizabeth, 
daughter of Thomas Alexander, who died six 
mouths after the wedding, and for his second wife 
Mr. Reed was married to Anna, daughter of Rev. 
David McLean, of Ohio. She bore him four chil- 
dren, viz. : Margaret (deceased wife of Robert 
Henderson, resided in Chartiers township), Mary 
(deceased wife of John Nesbit, Chartiers town 
ship), David (a leading physician of Cedar Rapids, 
deceased in 1878) and Jane Ann (wife of John B. 
Moy, Venice, this county). The mother of these 
children died, and he was afterward married to 
Maitha Anderson, who was born October 2. 1816, 
in Chartiers township. They settled on the old 
homestead where children were born to them, 
as follows: Elizabeth (Mrs. David White), John 
(deceased September 21, 1863, in Indiana. Hewasa 
minister in the U. P. Church), Matthew Anderson 
(living in Allegheny City, Penn.), Thomas Alex- 
ander (living in Pasadena, Cal. ), George Murry (a 
U. P. minister of Cumberland county, Penn.), 
Julia Ann (wife of Alonza F. Hemphill, Houstnn- 
ville, Penn.) and Lidlie Campbell (living in Cecil 
township). Mr. Reed was always identified with 
the interests of Cecil township. He possessed a 
strong constitution and lived to be ninety eight 
years of age, dying in October, 1885, his wife 
having gone before in October, 1882. In 1877 
David White bought his present farm in Cecil 
township, containing 110 acres of good land, and 
moved upon it the following year. Two children 
have blessed his second marriage: Joseph A., a 
graduate of the Iron City Commercial College, at 
Pittsburgh, and Elva Minetta (deceased in 1889, in 



her thirteenth year). Politically Mr. White is a 
Prohibitionist. He was formerly a member of the 
TJ. P. Church at Venice, but he and his wife are 
now connected with the Cauousburg Chartiers 
Congregation. 




ILLIAM S. GRIMES. When young men 
of culture, intellect and education deliber- 
ately choose a peaceful rural life in pref- 
erence to the glittering show and cease- 
less din of a metropolis, it augurs well for progress 
ive agriculture. No profession is more free from 
petty annoyances or more conducive to mental and 
moral as well as physical, growth, than is that of 
an intelligent farmer. The youth of to-day realize 
this fact as never before, and the illiterate farmer 
from the rural districts will soon be a legend of 
the past, for his place is even now filled with men 
who are equally able to take their places in college 
halls or harvest fields, and among whom is the 
family of William S. Grimes. 

William S.Grimes is a grandson of Isaac Grimes, 
who was born in Washington county, Penn.. and 
followed the blacksmith's trade in early life. When 
a young man he was married to Sarah Pool, a na- 
tive of this county, and they were the parents of 
four children, viz. : William (deceased). Joshua N., 
Mary (deceased), and one that died in infancy. 
Both parents died on the old place in 1871. 

William Grimes, father of subject, was born 
June 19, 1823, in East Pike Run township, Wash- 
ington Co., Penn. He learned and followed the 
blacksmith's trade when a young man, and in 1851 
was married to Margaret A. Springer, who was 
born in 1831, in East Pike Run township, this 
county. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Grimes 
located on the home place, where he followed farm- 
ing and stock raising. He took an active interest 
in the Republican party, and served in local offices; 
in religious faith he and his wife were members of 
the Presbyterian Church at Coal Centre, Penn., of 
which he was an elder about thirty years. Their 
children were as follows: William S. ; Leroy C. , a 
farmer of Stark county, Ohio; Anna L. . wife of C. 
Miller, a physician of Fayette county, Penn., and 
Mary B., deceased wife of Townsend Theakston. 
The father died November 22, 1880, the mother 
having "gone before" in February, 1877. 

William S. Grimes was born October 11, 1852. 
on the home farm in East Pike Run township, this 
county. His elementary education was secured at 
the district schools, and he then attended the 
Southwestern State Normal School, at California, 
several terms. After completing his studies he 
taught for some time, and finally settling on the 
homestead, has since devoted his attention to agri- 
culture. On March 25, 1874, he was united in 
marriage with Lizzie Dorsey, who was born Sep- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1231 



tember 1, 1855, in East Pike Run township, this 
county, a daughter of George and Martha (Phil 
lips) Dorsey, also natives of this county, who were 
the parents of nine children, of whom three are 
now living: Cassius A., Charles I. and Lizzie. 
Mr. and Mrs. Grimes are living on the old home- 
stead, consisting of 114 acres of well cultivated 
laud, upon which he carries on practical farming 
with signal success. Good buildings have been 
erected on the place, and the stone part of the 
house was built over one hundred years ago. He 
votes with the Republican party, and in religion he 
aud his wife are members of the Taylor M. E. 
Church, of which he is a trustee. The names and 
dates of birth of the children of Mr. and Mrs. 
Grimes are as follows: Nora E., August 8, 1875; 
Elva L., October 23, 1876; Margaret A.. April '2'-'. 
1878; George D., August 15. 1880; William C, 
July 20, 1884: Mattie R., March 24, 188(5, and 
Mansoll F. , December 14, 1891. Mr. Grimes iB 
the present auditor of West Pike Run. 



YLVESTER HERTIG, a prominent fanner 
and wool-grower of Donegal towuship, is a 
son of John G. Hertig, who was born in 
1804, in the Canton Neufchatel, near the 
beautiful city and lake of the same name, the coun- 
try being at lhattime an annex of the French Em- 
pire. The Hertig family were ardent admirers of 
the world renowned Napoleon, and Charles (the 
eldest son of the family) though a youth of barely 
twenty years, had already won the epaulets of a 
subaltern officer, in the sanguinary battle of 
Waterloo, where he received a severe wound. The 
father of this family was a battle scarred veteran, 
and had then been placed on the retired list. 

John G. Hertig was to have beeu educated for 
the church in accordance with his parents' desires, 
but the ideas of the youth did not agree with the 
expressed wishes of the family. Ho had no taste 
for thelifeof a churchman, but secretly determined 
to secure as good an education as possible, and then 
flee to America, whose free institutions imparted 
so roseate a tint to his boyish dreams. Quittiug 
school at the age of sixteen years, with the repu- 
tation of being a prodigy in scholarship, he gained 
the consent of his parents to go to Holland, as the 
fall of Napoleon had given the then hated Prus- 
sians the control of his birthplace. He was limited 
in finances at this time, which fact prevented his 
coming at once to America, but it was only hope 
deferred. The long-cherished ambition was hid- 
den for a time, but never once forgotten. John 
Hertig soon became tutor in a wealthy family, and 
giving them four hours daily of his time, received 
a libera] compensation. In addition to the luxu- 
ries of aristocratic life, which included unlimited 
quantities of the most elegant wearing apparel, he 



also received the annual sum of $300 in gold. But 
certain galling restraints were imposed, and his 
proud spirit, brooking no fetters, longed eagerly 
for absolute freedom. He must realize the dream 
of his life, naught else would satisfy, and at the 
end of two years he decided that the time for ac- 
tion had arrived. Having saved $1,000, the daring 
youth bid adieu to the family with whom he had 
been an honored guest (who entreated him t<> re 
main with them), and sending a farewell to his 
parents, looked his last on the shores of Europe. 
Perhaps a faint regret came over him as the banks 
of his sunny France faded from sight, and he re- 
alized that he was forever leaving all who loved 
him, to dwell a stranger in a strange laud. But 
youth is buoyant, and seldom spends much time 
in vain regret; new scenes were before him, a new 
life lay just beyond. In 1824 the young man 
landed in New York, where he remained some 
time, then went to Uniontown, Fayette Co., Penn. , 
entering in a partnership school with an American, 
who attempted to cheat the young foreigner. 
After discovering the treachery, young Hertig 
withdrew from the school, and began teaching in 
George township, Fayette Co., Penn. Soon after- 
ward he was united in marriage with Elizabeth, 
daughter of Joseph Showalter, a farmer of the 
neighborhood, and eleven children were born to 
their union, of whom eight are yet living. Mr. 
Hertig passed many years of his life in Fayette 
county, Penn., and was one of the best-known and 
most popular men of the county. He possessed 
remarkable mathematical skill, and never saw or 
heard of a problem which he could not solve. He 
was a fluent scholar, speaking, reading and writing 
the English. French and German languages with 
perfect ease; translating Latin as a pastime; 
solving the most difficult mathematical problems 
readily as if but child's play; surveying lands, 
drawing plats, and drawing up all kinds of legal 
documents, with more ease than an average law- 
yer. Mr. Hertig was indeed a man of wonderful 
power aud versatility. The latter years of his life 
were passed in Tennessee (where he owned some 
real estate), thinking that the balmy southern air 
might lessen the pain of the infirmities he was 
obliged to suffer, although not confined to the 
bed, and never accepting a physician's aid. He 
died August 24, 1885, at Cleveland, Tenn. ; his 
widow still survives him. 

Sylvester Hertig was born January 20, 1 850, in 
George township. Fayette Co., Penn. He received 
a common school education, and passed his boy 
hood on his father's farm. On February 19, 1880, 
he was married to Emma L. Eberhart. who was 
born March 25, 1861, daughter of Adolph and 
Sarah (Beatty) Eberhart, and she has borne him 
children as follows: Charles, Adolph, Hortense 
and John G. After his marriage Mr. Hertig 



1232 



II ASIIINGTON COUXTV. 



resided some time in Springhill township, Fayette 
Co., Penn., and followed farming and stock raising. 
He tben moved to Buffalo township, Washington 
Co., Penn., and located about six miles west of 
Washington. In 1888 he came to Donegiil town- 
ship, this county, locatingon the " James Dickey'' 
farm, which ho now owns, lying about one mile 
and a half south of Duusfort, near the line of 
West Virginia, where he is extensively engaged 
in wool-growing. Mr. Hertig casts his ballot for 
the one he considers most capable of tilling the po 
sitiou, regardless of political standing. 






dfACOB F. McDOWELL is a worthy repre- 
sentative of one of the early families of 
| Mt. Pleasant township. The McDowells are 
of Scotch descent, the first settlement having 
been made in Lancaster county, Penn., in 
colonial days, by Thomas McDowell. He first 
settled near McConnell's Mill, Chartiers township, 
and in 177',) took a patent for 400 acres in Mt. Pleas- 
aut township, now in the McDowell and Miller 
name. He died in this county, and was buried in 
Buffalo village. 

The grandfather, James McDowell, was born in 
Lancaster county, Penn., and when a young man 
came to Washington county, taking out a patent 
for land in Mt. Pleasant township. He was mar- 
ried in Chartiers township to Mary McKnight, a 
native of the last named place, and the young 
couple settled on the place in Mt. Pleasant town- 
ship now occupied by their grandson, Jacob F. 
Mrs. James McDowell died in 1853. 

John McDowell was born in 1811, on the old 
home place in Mt. Pleasant township, and attended 
the subscription schools during his boyhood. In 
1838 he was married to Margaret Miller, who was 
born in Chartiers township, and they continued to 
reside on the old homestead, where he followed 
agricultural pursuits. In political opinion he was 
a Democrat, and in religion he and his wife were 
among the first members of the Presbyterian 
Church at Mt. Prospect. He died August 18, 
18S6, having been preceded by the wife and mother 
February 20, 1866. They were the parents of 
seven children, namely: James W., an attorney 
at Washington, Penn. ; Jacob F., of whom a sketch 
follows; Margaret, wife of J. M. K. Donaldson; 
Rebecca, married to James Agnew, of Mt. Pleasant 
township; John, living at Canonsburg, Penn.; 
Sarah, residing on the home farm; and Lizzie, also 
at home. 

Jacob F. McDowell was born June 3, 1843, on 
the old homestead in Mt. Pleasant township, re- 
ceiving his education at the schools of the home 
district, and beginning life for himself on his 
birthplace. On January 29, 1874, he married 
Margaret Dickson, a native of Cecil township, this 



county, whose parents were early settlers of the 
same locality. Mr. and Mrs. McDowell have 
always remained on the old place, which contains 
eighty six acres of well-cultivated land, and he is 
engaged in general farming and stock raising. He 
is actively interested in the success of the Demo- 
cratic party, and has served two terms on the 
school board, and also as auditor of Mt. Pleasant 
township. In religion he and his wife are members 
of the Presbyterian Church, in which he is a 
deacon. Three children have blessed their union, 
namely: Ida Margaret, Theresa Elizabeth and 
John Howard. 




ICHAKD M. FITZWILLIAM, a prosper 
ous and popular citizen of Franklin town- 
ship, whose tine farm of 240 acres is situ- 
ated near the borough of Washington, was 
born June 28, ]S2.\ in Rankintowu, Wash 
ingtou Co., Pennsylvania. 

His grandfather. William Fitzwilliam, was a 
native of County Down, Ireland, where he was 
married to Jane McCullough, and a few years 
thereafter they came to America, landing at Phila- 
delphia, thence proceeding to Little York, same 
State, where they remained some time. During 
the "Whisky Insurrection" he volunteered into 
the militia, and was sent to Washington county, 
where he concluded to make his home, so brought 
his family and made a settlement in Frauklin 
township. Afterward he moved to Mercer county, 
same State, where he remained some time; thence 
went to Ross county, Ohio, where he passed the 
remaining days of his busy life; his widow re- 
turned to Washington county, and here died in 
1S42. By trade Mr. Fitzwilliam was a weaver, 
which he followed both in Ireland and in this 
country. He was an adherent of the Episcopal 
Church. 

Francis Fitzwilliam, father of subject, was born 
in Franklin township, this county, in 1801. While 
in Ross county, Ohio, he learned blacksmithing, 
and after serving his apprenticeship moved to 
Metcer county, Penn., where he remained one 
year, working at his trade; then located in Ran 
kintown, this county, where he worked eight years. 
In 1832 he purchased the farm in Franklin town 
ship now occupied by his son Richard M. In 1824 
Mr. Fitzwilliam married Mary, daughter of Rich- 
ard Mounts, a member of one of the earliest 
families of the county, and the children boin to this 
union were Richard M., Jane (widow of James H. 
Wheeler), Frank (who was educated at Washing- 
ton and Jefferson College, was admitted to the liar, 
went to Kansas, and there died; he had married 
Eliza Clay Jackson, of Bowling Green, Ky., and 
they had four children: Mary, Lizzie, Frank and 
Romaiue, all residents of Leavenworth, Kaus.), aud 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1233 



Mary (also deceased). The father was called from 
earth April 15, 1875, the mother having preceded 
him to the grave March 31, 1S72. Francis Fitz- 
william was a self-made man in every sense, and 
won his own success unaided. He was, in his politi- 
cal predilections, first a Whig and Abolitionist, and 
afterward a Republican, and in church connection 
he was a thorough Presbyterian. 

Richard M. Fitzwilliam, the subject of this 
sketch, passed his early life on his father's farm, 
and was educated at the common schools of his 
vicinity. On April 23, 1864, he was united in 
marriage witli Ella, daughter of James C. Cham- 
bers, of Amwell township, and they at once set- 
tled on the home place where they yet reside. Mr. 
Fitzwilliam attends the First M. E. Church at 
Washington, and in his political sympathies is an 
active Republican. 



J| AMES McKEE is a well known and prosperous 
| farmer of Chartiers township. His father, 
j John McKee, was a son of Samuel McKee, 
the latter being a native of Ireland, who 
emigrated to America in about 178(1, settling in 
Washington county, Penn., on the farm where 
he died. 

John McKee was born in 1803, in Washington 
county, Penn., and on arriving at man's estate 
married Miss Nancy McNary, a native of Chartiers 
township, this county. The young couple first set- 
tled in Canton township, this county, and a few 
years afterward moved to the home farm, where Mr. 
McKee is yet living at the age of eighty nine years. 
Five children were born to them, four of whom 
died in infancy. The mother died in 1844, on the 
farm in Canton township, and John McKee was 
afterward married to Leviah Irwin, daughter of 
John Irwin, an early pioneer of Washington 
county, and to this union were born three children, 
viz. : John T. (living in Mt. Pleasant township, 
this county), Elizabeth N. and Mary M. (both resid- 
ing at home). This wife died in 1880. 

James McKee, son of John and Nancy McKee, 
was born in 1830, in Canton township, being the 
youngest of his father's family. He was educated 
in the common schools of Chartiers township, and 
also attended a term or two in Mt. Pleasant town- 
ship, this county. He has always followed fann- 
ing and stock raising, making a specialty of good 
Shorthorn cattle. The farm consists of 100 acres 
of highly-cultivated land. James McKee is an 
active member of the Democratic party, and served 
as township supervisor for six years, also filling the 
positions of auditor and inspector. He and his 
Bisters are members of the United Presbyterian 
Church, of which the father is also a member. 




ILLIAM WOODBURN, a well-known and 
representative farmer of Independence 
township, is a son of Thomas, whose fa- 
ther, Thomas Woodburn, was a native of 
Ireland, and there learned the trade of a weaver. 
He afterward immigrated to America, locating in 
Mt. Pleasant township, Washington Co., Penn., 
where he was married, and brought his bride to 
the log-cabin home, erected by his own hands. The 
young people were frequently obliged to flee to the 
neighboring blockhouse from the furious attacks of 
the blood-thirsty savages. Fourteen children were 
born to this pioneer couple, seven sons and seven 
daughters, all of whom lived to an adult age and 
two are yet living: Samuel, a resident of Tyler 
county, W. Va., and John, living in Bnrgettstown, 
Penn. Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Woodburn passed 
their lives on the farm, where they died at an ad- 
vanced age. 

Thomas Woodburn, a son of Thomas Wood- 
burn, the pioneer, was born about the year 1800, 
on the farm in Mt. Pleasant township, and re- 
ceived an education in the subscription schools of 
the neighborhood. When yet a boy he began 
working for the farmers in the vicinity, and in 
1832 was married to Clarissa Jackson, who was 
born about 1800, in Ohio county, W.Va., and died 
in the year 1841, leaving the following children: 
James, William, Thomas and Martha (Mrs. Mar- 
shall Meredith, of Randolph county, W. Va.). For 
his second wife, Mr. Woodburn was united in mar- 
riage, in 1845, with Margaret McHenry, of Alle- 
gheny county, Penn. , and the children born to this 
union were Nathan (a soldier in the late war, who 
was killed in the service), Sarah (deceased), James 
(deceased), John, Susan, Rebecca and Elizabeth. 
Of these children, the latter four are all residents 
of Tyler county, W. Va. Soon after his marriage 
Mr. Woodburn located in Allegheny county, Penn., 
where he engaged in farming, and in the latter 
part of his life moved to a farm in Tyler county, 
\V. Va., where he died in 1869. Mr. Woodburn 
was a successful and respected business man. 
Politically he was formerly a Whig, and after the 
organization of the party became a Republican. 
He was a member of the U. B. Church. Mrs. 
Woodburn is now living in Tyler county, W. Va. 
William Woodburn was born November 18, 
1835, in West Liberty, Brooke Co. , W.Va., and being 
left without a mother when but sis years of age, 
he made his home with his paternal grandfather. 
He remained there six years, then went to live 
with his father in Allegheny county, Penn. At 
the age of twenty years he began to "paddle his 
own canoe," by working for different farmers. On 
August 18, 1862, he enlisted in Company C, 
Twenty-second Regiment, Pennsylvania Cavalry, 
and took part in all the engagements of that com- 



1234 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



pany. In the year L865 he was honorably dis- 
charged, and returning home, began work upon 
the farm. On April 16, 1868, he was married to 
Sarah Meloy, who was born August 16, 1833, in 
Buffalo township, and they have had the follow 
ing children: Nina E., Lee Anna B. and Jennie 
K., all "f whom are yet living with their parents, 
the latter two being school teachers. The first 
years of married life were passed by Mr. Wood- 
born in German township, Harrison Co., Ohio, 
near Cadiz Junction. In the year 1875 he moved 
to his present home in Independence township, 
Washington county, locating near Mt. Hope. He 
is a farmer and stock 'raiser, and in politics is a 
Republican. He and his wife are both members 
of the Alt. Hope U. P. Church. 




OBERT D. CRAIG, one of the stirring, go 
ahead young farmers of Hopewell town 
ship. Washington comity, was born in 
1867, on the farm where he now resides. 
He is a son of William Craig, who was a 
William and Susan (Leaper) Craig, the 
a native of the North of Ireland, and the 
latter born in Pennsylvania. 

William Craig, the grandfather, grew to man 
hood in Ireland, when the family sought a home 
in this country. William came to Washington 
county. Penn.. and established himself on a farm 
near West Middletown, there residing until his 
death. His family consisted of the following 
named children: John, Walter, William, Jane, Re 
becca, Susan, Catherine and Margaret. The father 
died in 1834, in his sixtieth year. His widow sur- 
vived him until 1866, when she too passed away, 
at the advanced age of eighty years. With Mr. 
Craig came his two brothers — David (who resided 
at Middletown) and Walter (who lived at Cross 
Creek village). 

William Craig, father of Robert D. Craig, was 
born on the home farm in Hopewell township, 
though the family residence was then in Independ- 
ence township, this county. He was educated in the 
common schools of Independence township, at- 
tending whenever possible, and acquiring a good 
English education. When about twenty three 
years of age he married Margaret MeFadden, who 
died in October, L864, leaving six children, namely: 
Alexander, William, John S., Susan, Margaret and 
Lucy, of whom Alexander, Susan and Margaret 
are deceased. In 1865 Mr. Craig was married to 
Margaret Dalzell, and a son and daughter were 
born to them: Robert D. and Lavina Jennie. The 
father was always a successful fanner, and was 
the owner of some excellent places. During the 
later years of his life he also dealt largely in stuck, 
in which vocation he was equally successful, con 
ducting a large business. His success was due to 



energy and industry, combined with economy and 
business foresight. In politics he differed from 
other members of his family, being an earnest ad 
vocate of the principles of the Republican party, 
but though always koenly on the lookout for 
the welfare of his county, neither sought nor de- 
sired public office. During the last years of his 
life ho was a member of the United Presbyterian 
Church. He died October 3, 1890. Of the chil 
dren of his family the following is a brief record: 
William Craig, the eldest living son, is married to 
Miss Ada Nuzum, of West Virginia, and is now 
residing in Independence township, this county 
(they have had two children: Eva Pearl, now about 
five years of age, and Anna, deceased); John, the 
second living son of William Craig, was married 
to Miss Kate Botes, who has borne' him two chil 
dren, Alvin and Mary Belle; Lucy, daughter of 
William and Margaret Craig, is married to James 
McMurray, and is living iu Kansas City, Mo. ; 
Robert D. (subject) and Lavina J. are unmarried, 
and reside with their mother on the old homestead. 
Like their father, the men of the Craig family are 
adherents of the Republican party. 



AMUEL J. MELVIN, a well known farmer 
and one of the representative citizens of 
Hanover township, traces the genealogy of 
the Melvin family to two brothers, Samuel 
and William Melvin, who came to America in early 
days with their parents, and located on a farm iu 
Cecil county, Md. 

Samuel Melvin was born March 28, 1772, in 
Ireland, coming with his parents to this country 
when a child. He grew to manhood in Cecil county. 
Md. , and on December 31, 1795, was married to 
Tamar Miller, who was born August 5, 1774, in 
Maryland. Some time after their marriage they 
set out for the West, and in 1803 came to Wash- 
ington county, Penn., locating on a farm in the ter- 
ritory now named Jefferson (then Cross Creek) 
township, where he began to clear away the forest 
and make a home. After a prosperous and indus 
trious life he died March 17, 1826, having been 
preceded by his wife, October 13, 1821. They are 
buried at Bethel Church cemetery in Jefferson 
township. His brother William came to Jefferson 
township in 1808, afterward moving to Brooke 
county, W. Va. , and in 1S48 settled in Burgetts 
town, where he died in 1856. The following chil 
dren were born to Samuel and Tamar Melvin: 
Ann. born February 21, 1797, Mrs. Edward J 
Jones, of Jefferson township; John, died October 
13, 1821, and was buried with his mother (he was 
born March 5, 1799); Henry, a merchant at Wells 
ville, Ohio, and other places, died at Wellsburg, 
W. Va., born April 29, 1801; Sarah, born April 2, 
1803; William, whose sketch follows; Tamar, born 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1235 



August 23, 1807, wife of George Elliott, of Davis 
county, Iowa; James, a cabinet maker and under- 
taker at Pugbtown, W. Va. (father of ex- Judge 
Thayer Melvin, of Wheeling, W. Va.), born March 
9, 1810; Samuel, died when twelve years of age, 
born August 1, 1812; and Lydia, Mrs. James T. 
Jones, born November 9, 1816. Of this family 
none are now living. 

William Melvin was born June 9, 1805, in Jef- 
ferson township, this county, and received a very 
limited subscription- school education, working on 
the farm. His elder brother Henry being a crip 
pie. the greater part of the work fell on William. 
On June 14, 1827, he was married to Abigail Jones, 
a native of Maryland, daughter of Edward J. Jones, 
also a native of Maryland, who resided in Jeffer 
son township, Washington county, at the time of 
their marriage. William and Abigail Melvin were 
tin' parents of the following children: Ann, widow 
of David Thorley. of Jefferson township; John, a 
farmer of Jefferson township; Tamar E., deceased 
wife of Robert Hamilton, of Davis county, Iowa; 
Mary M., widow of Cyrus M. Stephenson, of El- 
dersville, Penn.; Samuel J., our subject; Lydia, 
married Robert P. Cooper, went to Iowa, but died 
on the home place in Jefferson township, this 
county; and William, a farmer living on the home 
place. Mrs. Melvin died July 3, 1850, and was 
buried in the Bethel graveyard. For his second 
wife William Melvin married Susan Ann McKeever, 
a sister of the well-known Judge McKeever, of 
Hopewell township, who is the only member of her 
family now living. Mr. Melvin began his married 
life on the home farm, which was then considera- 
bly involved. But with untiring energy he labored 
(often making flour barrels after night, for sale) 
until the place was free from incumbrance, and va- 
rious additions and improvements were made and 
paid for. He possessed abundant vitality, under- 
going several accidents which would have resulted 
fatally to an ordinary man. He was over six feet 
in stature and well proportioned. He was a bitter 
enemy of slavery, and at one time the only Aboli- 
tionist in Jefferson township. In politics he was 
first a Democrat, then a Whig, next an Abolitionist 
nr Freesoiler, and finally a Prohibitionist, casting 
his last ballot for Gen. Clinton B. Fisk for Presi- 
dent — his last public act. He was a member of the 
Wesleyan Methodist Church at Eldersville, Penn., 
and a zealous worker for the cause of the Master. 
When he passed away, December 23, 1888, Jeffer- 
son township lost one of her most worthy and 
valued citizens, and Methodism one of its most 
zealous supporters. 

Samuel Jones Melvin (our subject) was born 
February 3, 1839, in Jefferson township, this 
county. His earlier education was supplemented 
by a two years' preparatory course at Adrian Col- 
lege, Adrian, Mich, where he was a student when 



the Civil war opened. He came home intending to 
enlist, but was persuaded by friends to remain at 
home, as his health was rather feeble. When Lin- 
coln issued a call for ninety-day men, the name of 
Samuel J. Melvin was drawn, but rather than be 
drafted, he enlisted, October 21, 1862, as a volun- 
teer in Company A, One Hundredth P. V. I. 
(Roundheads) at Eldersville, Penn. He served 
two years and nine months, and during that time 
was employed as clerk in different departments, 
from company to corps headquarters, his ability in 
this line having been discovered in the early part 
of the service. When drafted he was engaged in 
teaching school in what is known as Lee's School, 
Jefferson township, having completed one month 
of the term when the draft was made. While in 
the army he suffered from inflammatory rheu 
matism, chronic diarrhoea and typhoid fever. He 
was honorably discharged July 24, 1865, and re- 
turned to Washington county, Penn. Afterward 
he took a western trip, and, finally returning to his 
birthplace, began farming on the home place. On 
November 14, 1867, he was married to Helen M. 
Hanlin, who was born December 23, 1845, a daugh- 
ter of Alexander and Margaret (Gracey) Hanlin, of 
Hanover township. The children of Samuel J. and 
Helen M. Melvin are as follows: Charles P., a pat- 
tern maker of Pittsburgh, Penn.; William Alexan- 
der, deceased at the age of seven years; Galbraith 
Stewart, Mary Gracey and Alice Gertrude, all of 
whom are living at home. Mr. and Mrs. Melvin 
remained on the old Melvin farm in Jefferson 
township until February 24, 1875, when they came 
to Hanover township and located on the Alexander 
Hanlin farm, part of which is now their home. He 
has made many improvements on the place and has 
erected a pleasant residence, which commands a 
fine view of the surrounding farms. He follows 
general farming and stock raising, and is also con- 
ducting a dairy business. He voted with the Re- 
publican party until 1884, since which time he has 
been a member of the Prohibition party. He and 
his wife are leading members of the Wesleyan 
Methodist Church of Eldersville, Penn., of which 
he is a trustee and class-leader. He has also, for 
a number of years, been superintendent of a Union 
Sabbath school at Hanlin Station. 



If AMES M. THOMAS. Among the leading f am- 

I ilies of Washington county, none have a bet- 

fr ter claim to prominent mention in the pages 

^^ of this Biographical Record than the one of 

which the gentleman is a worthy member. 

Edmund Thomas, grandfather of James M., is 
the first of the family in this county of whom there 
are any data. He was a native of eastern Penn- 
sylvania, and when a young man came hither and 
made a settlement in North Strabaue township, 



1236 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



where lie carried on farming to the end of his busy 
life, becoming one of the leading citizens, ever in 
the van of all progressive movements. He was 
her.- married to Rhoda, daughter of David Leon- 
ard, of Washington county, a resident of near the 
village of Beutleyville, and the children born to 
them were Sarah, Mary, Rebecca, Ann, Phoebe, 
Lydia, Rhoda, Nancy and Liverton. Mr. Thomas 
early united with the Presbyterian Cburqh, in after 
life serving for many years as a trustee and an 
elder. Politically he was a zealous Democrat. 

Liverton Thomas, father of subject, was born in 
North Strabane township, Washington Co., Penn., 
.May 12, 1809, and his education was received at 
the schools of his district, which he enhanced by 
much after study. In 1834 he was married, in 
Ohio, to Miss Mary A. Glandon, who was born in 
Maryland, October 2, 1813, and moved with her 
parents to Harrison county, Ohio, and the results 
of this union were nine children, eight of whom 
are yet living, viz. : Edmund, in Saline county, 
Neb. ; William, a farmer in Chase county, Neb. ; 
James M.; Rhoda L., wife of John Hodgens, in 
Dea Moines, Iowa; Liverton G., a physician in 
Philadelphia, Penn.; Belle M., wife of James C. 
Matthews, a farmer and undertaker in North Stra- 
bane township; A. J., also a farmer in North Stra- 
bane township; and Ida M., wife of William Ket- 
tle, of Rush county, Kans. ; Caleb F. died in in- 
fancy. The mother died Decembei 10, 1873. and 
the father then went to live with his daughter, 
Mrs. John Hodgens, in Des Moines, Iowa, where 
he now is. He is a member of the Presbyterian 
Church, of which he has always been a liberal sn im- 
porter, and was the donator of the land on which 
the Fairview church now stands, having materially 
contributed toward its erection, and has been an 
elder from its organization. Politically, he is a 
lifelong Democrat, and has been in his day a 
hard worker for the party's interests. 

James M. Thomas was born December 29, 1838, 
in North Strabane township, Washington Co., 
Penn., and received a thorough common-school 
training, which, being a diligent student and apt 
scholar, he turned to the best account. He assist- 
ed in the duties of his father's farm until 1866, in 
which year he embarked in general mercantile 
business in the village of Thomas, inclusive of the 
buying and shipping of all kinds of farm produce. 
He is one of the heaviest wool dealers in his local- 
ity, and has justly earned the confidence of every 
one with whom he has had dealings. His first 
store was a 16x20 room, which was soon enlarged 
to H'ix4(), to meet the growth of his business. In 
1876 he erected bis present business block in the 
same village, 24x70, two stories and a basement. 
The store is finished in natural wood, and is one of 
the finest country stores in the county. Mr. 
Thomas carries full lineh of all classes of goods, 



dealing heavily, in produce, and his success is en- 
tirely of his own making. On September 20, 181)9, 
James M. Thomas was united in marriage with 
Mary J., daughter of Alexander Hamilton, of Not- 
tingham township, and the children born to them 
are Carrie B. , Howard N., Cora B. and Clyde B. 
The mother of this family died July 10, 1885, and 
December 28, 1886, Mr. Thomas for his second 
wife married Mrs. Anna Hodgens, daughter of Dr. 
Murray, of Canonsburg. The family are members 
of the Presbyterian Church at Fairview, in which 
Mr. Thomas is an elder and has held various 
offices. His political predilections are Democratic, 
but of late years he has preferred to vote for the 
best man, irrespective of party claims, at all times 
having first in view the best interests of his town 
ship, county and State. 



DAVID A. BROWNLEE is a representative 
j of one of the most prominent pioneer fami- 
lies of Washington county, and traces his 
lineage back through the generations to a 
hardy, robust Scotch " lad and lassie." 

Archibald Brownlee was born and reared in 
Scotland, and was there married to a Miss Hamilton, 
who bore him the following children: James, Will- 
iam, John, Archibald, Thomas, Jane (Mrs. John 
Allison), and Hugh (who died when the family 
were crossing the ocean). About the year 1765 he 
immigrated to America, first locating in Lancaster 
county, Penn., where he remained some time, and 
in 1775 purchased a farm in Canton township, 
Washington county, which became their perma- 
nent home. James Brownlee, a brother of Archi- 
bald, also settled in Washington county, where he 
resided until 1800, since which time the family 
have all removed from the county. Archibald was 
first a member of the Scotch Presbyterian Church, 
and afterward united with the Seceder Church. 
He followed agricultural pursuits all his life, and 
died in Canton township. 

James Brownlee was born January 4, 1745, in 
Lanarkshire, Scotland, and after coming to Amer- 
ica learned the trade of a millwright, which he fol- 
lowed several years in eastern Pennsylvania. He 
then settled on a farm in Canton township, Wash- 
ington county, where the remainder of his life was 
passed. In early manhood he was united in mar- 
riage with Jane Leman, a member of a pioneer 
family of Washington county, who had emigrated 
from Ireland, and to this union came the following 
children, their names and dates of birth being 
given: John, October 15, 1777; Archibald, Febru 
arv 28, 1779; James, September 27, 1780; Hugh, 
July 23, 1782; Elizabeth (Mrs. Daniel Brownlee), 
May 17, 1784; William, January 13, 1786; Thomas, 
December 1, 1787; Samuel, August 9, 1789; Jo 
seph, August 8, 1791; Jane (wife of Kenneth 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1239 



McCoy), April 20, 1793; and David, April 8, 1797. 
The home of Mr. Brownlee was situated two miles 
west of Washington borough. He was a member 
of and ruling elder in the Seceder Church at North 
Buffalo, and in politics he was a Whig. He died 
in 1822, and was buried beside his wife, who had 
preceded him to the grave. 

Joseph Brownlee was born in Canton township, 
Washington .Co., Penn., passed his early life on the 
home place, and was for some time engaged in 
hauling goods from Philadelphia. He married 
Esther, daughter of John Templeton, of Washing- 
ton county, and in 1819 the young couple settled 
on a farm in Independence township, where their 
lives were passed and the following children born: 
Ann, James H. (living in Knoxville, Tenn.), John 
T. and Jane (Mrs. Robert Y. Meloy). Mrs. Brown- 
lee died December 8, 1832, and Mr. Brownlee, 
May 1T>, 1834, married Jane Auld, of Washington 
county. Of this union were born: David A., Jo- 
seph W. (residing in Cross Creek township), Sarah 
M. (Mrs. Samuel Donaldson), Esther H. (Mrs. 
Samuel L. Moore, of Independence), and Martin 
B. (a minister of the U. P. Church in Iowa). Mr. 
Brownlee was an energetic man, exerting a marked 
influence on the lives of the surrounding people. 
He was a member of the Mt. Hope U. 1'. Church, 
in which he was an elder forty years. Politically 
he was formerly a Whig and an Abolitionist, after 
ward a Republican, and always took an active pari 
in all questions of public interest. He died No- 
vember 23, 1867, aud was buried by the side of 
his wife in the cemetery at Mt. Hope. 

David Auld, grandfather of subject, was born near 
Coleraiue, in the North of Ireland, came to Amer- 
ica at an early day, and settled in the southern 
part of Washington county. Toward the beginning 
of the present century he was married to hiscousin, 
Mary Auld, by whom he had the following chil- 
dren: James, Jane (married to Joseph Brownlee), 
John, David and Mary, all now deceased. The 
mother of these children died March 11, 1819, and 
April 12, 1821, he was married to Sarah Jackson, 
who survived him. He was a Whig, a member of 
the Associate Church, and a farmer in Buffalo 
township. 

David A. Brownlee, our subject, was born Feb- 
ruary 9, 1835, on the home farm, situated two and 
a half miles northeast of Independence, in Inde- 
pendence township. On October 15, 1868, he 
married Jane Ann Templeton, who was born Jan 
uary 13, 1838, daughter of Alexander Templeton. 
Alexander Templeton was reared in Cross Creek 
township. He married Margaret M. Gabby, 
(daughter of James Gabby), by whom he had the 
following children: John (who died at the age of 
thirteen years from the kick of a horse), Dr. James 
G. (in Pittsburgh), Thomas B. (deceased, was a 
member of Company A, One Hundredth Pennsyl- 



vania Infantry, and died after the battle of the 
Wilderness), Jane Ann (Mrs. D. A. Brownlee), 
Hugh A. (deceased), Esther M. (Mrs. John Scott), 
Mary E. , Alexander Brown (deceased). Mr. Tem- 
pleton was a Democrat in politics, and in religion 
was a member of the U. I*. Church. In 1855 he 
moved to New Wilmington, Penn., and died there 
in April, 1861; his wife died in April, 1874, and 
they are buried in the cemetery at New Wilming- 
ton. Mr. aud Mrs. Brownlee have one child: 
William T., born July 3, 1869, now a well educated 
and prepossessing young man. After his marriage 
our subject lived with his widowed mother until 
her death, which occurred April 7, 1SS3 (she was 
buried in Mt. Hope cemetery), since which time he 
has owned aud managed the home place. Mr. 
Brownlee has been very successful in business, and 
has erected a large and commodious dwelling upon 
his farm. Politically he is a Republican, and has 
been elected to various township offices, in which 
his efficiency has been ably demonstrated. He 
and his wife are members of the Mt. Hope U. P. 
Church, in which In- is an elder. They have re- 
cently taken a verj nice little girl named Anna, 
born September IS, 1884, and intend to raise her 
as their own child. 



J (AMES JONES, a well-known undertaker, liv- 
ing at St. Cloud, Somerset township, is the 
youngest sou of Perry Jones, whose father, 
Abednago Jones, came to New York in an 
early day and worked at his trade, that of a 
tailor. He afterward moved to Washington 
county, there making a permanent home. , 

Perry Jones was born in 1783, in New York, 
and when yet a boy learned the carpenter's trade, 
which he followed all his life. In early manhood 
he married Susanna McCelvy, who bore him four 
sons and four daughters, of whom are yet living: 
William A. (a carpenter of Wayne county, Ohio), 
Isabel and James. Mr. and Mrs. Jones were 
members of the Presbyterian Church at Pigeon 
Creek. He died October 8, 1852, having been 
preceded by his wife February 9, 1848. 

James Jones (whose name opens this biography) 
was born September 28, 1825, in Somerset town- 
ship, this county, and when but a small boy learned 
the trade of carpentry with his father. In I860 
he opened an undertaking establishment which he 
is yet conducting. On October 21, 1851, he was 
united in marriage with Rachel P. Craig, who was 
born September 22, 1824, in Allegheny county, 
daughter of John and Ann (Larimor) Craig; tier 
father was born on the ocean while his parents 
were crossing from Ireland to America. Mr. and 
Mrs. Craig both died in this county. To the 
union of James and Rachel P. (Craig) Jones the 
following children were born: Sarah B., born 



1240 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



October 12, 1852, died March 6, 1858; Austin H., 
bora January 4, IS.")."), died April 3, 1856; Anna(wife 
of William Leyde, a farmer of Nottingham town- 
ship, this county), born August 18, 1856; John P. (a 
farmer of Nottingham township), born August 17, 
1858; William A (a Presbyterian minister of Knox - 
ville, Pittsburgh, Penn.), born November 27, 1860; 
Hanford M. , carpenter, born October 20, 1862; 
James A. (a carpenter of Somerset township), born 
December 30, 1864; and Nannie A. (living at home), 
born FobruaiyS, 1866. Mr. and Mrs. Jones are 
members of the old Pigeon Creek Presbyterian 
Church, in which he was ruling elder many years, 
also acting as first deacon, and he was superin- 
tendent of the Sabbath school four years. On 
August 1, 1884, he was. appointed postmaster at 
St. Cloud, which office he is now filling; he also 
served as director of the poor. In politics he was 
formerly a Democrat, but is now a Prohibitionist. 



J. CROTHERS was born in Mt. Pleas- 
ant, Jefferson Co. , Ohio, June 25, 1812. In 
1834 he located on the farm in Buffalo town- 
ship, Washington Co., Penn., now owned by 
Samuel Blayney. On March 4, 1835, he was mar- 
ried to Miss Jean Brownlee, daughter of William 
Brownlee, one of the earliest pioneers of western 
Pennsylvania. On that farm Mr. Crothers re- 
mained until 1845, when he removed to the one 
now owned by L. M. Crothers, his youngest son, 
which lie had bought some years before. He re- 
mained on this farm until his death, which oc- 
curred July 20, 1889. 

Mr. Crothers was known as one of the most 
thorough agriculturists of the county. He was 
very public spirited, taking an active and special 
interest in every movement tending to the welfare 
of his neighborhood. His characteristics, which 
were strongly pronounced, and as unchangeable and 
linn as a rock of adamant, may be summed up in a 
few words: He thought for himself, he said exactly 
what he thought; and he did exactly what he 
said. 




^ILLIAM T. ARNOLD, a well-to-do 

farmer of Hanover township, is the lineal 
descendant of an old Irish family, the first 
of whom to come to America was his 
grandfather, Samuel Arnold. The latter was born 
in Ireland, about ten miles from Newry, and the 
sajne distance from Banbridge, County Down. 

When Samuel Arnold was a young man he was 
there married to Margaret Glass, who bore him the 
following children in Ireland: Nancy (married to 
William Anderson); Mary (died of "king's evil"). 

Some til luring the latter part of the eighteenth 

century this family came to America, and made 



their first permanent location in Allegheny county, 
Penn., where other children were born, namely: 
John (of whom a sketch follows); Margaret (wife 
of John Stewart, Noblestown, Allegheny Co., Penn.); 
Jane (Mrs. John Moore), and Elizabeth (married 
to Hugh Glenn, died in Richland county, Ohio). 
Samuel Arnold and his wife died in Allegheny 
county, Penn. 

John Arnold (the father of our • subject) was 
born August 19, 1800, in Allegheny county, Penn. 
He received a meager education in the schools of 
that period, and worked on his father's farm until 
he was a boy of sixteen or seventeen. He then 
began to learn the trade of a saddler (which at that 
time was a very lucrative one), working under his 
brother-in-law, John Stewart, at Noblestown, Penn. 
In 1821 he was married to Mary Cavitt, who was 
born in 1805, in Allegheny county, daughter of 
George Cavitt, a native of Franklin county, whose 
father, Patrick Cavitt, was born in Ireland. After 
his marriage John Arnold located ten miles west 
of Pittsburgh, along the Pittsburgh & Steubenville 
pike. He finally secured a small tract of land, to 
which, by patient industry and toil, he added. 
They remained in Allegheny county twenty-five 
years, and in 1846 removed to Hanover township, 
Washington Co., Penn., along King's creek, where 
he continued to follow farming. In politics, John 
Arnold was a Whig and a Republican. At an 
early age he made the good confession in the 
Union Church, and in 1854 was elected elder of 
the King's Creek Associate Reformed Church, 
which position he held until his death, November 
20, 1863. His widow survived him until January 
29, 1880, when she was laid by his side in the 
Frankfort cemetery. She also was connected with 
the same church as her husband, and when the 
United Presbyterian Church was organized, united 
with that Society. They were the parents of the 
following children: George C. (a U. P. minister), 
born February 19, 1825, deceased December 1, 
L863; Margaret (wife of Robert Ramsey, Beaver 
county. Penn), born November 1, 1826; Samuel, 
born October 11, 1829, deceased December 2, 
1849; John (living in Cedar Rapids, Iowa), born 
February 23, 1832; William T. (whose name opens 
this sketch); Agnes (Mrs. B. F. Mevey, of Alle- 
gheny, Penn.), born June 24. 1836; J. G., born 
November 9, 1839, deceased June 5, 1857; Cyrus 
G., born September 5, 1842; and J. Lee (living in 
Chicago), born January 3. 1X50. 

William T. Arnold was born December 22, 1833, 
in Allegheny county, and attended the country 
schools of his vicinity. He was reared on the 
farm and performed the usual duties of agricult 
ural life. On October 24, 1860, he married Ann 
Eliza Ramsey, who was born November 4, 1835, in 
Hanover township, Washington county, daughter 
of Mitchell and Ann (George) Ramsey. The fol 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1241 



lowing children Lave blessed this union: Thomas 
G., a resident of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; John, de- 
ceased in youth; James M. ; Anna Mary; William 
C. , and Charles S. ; the last four are living at home. 
After his marriage William T. Arnold located 
on the farm in Hanover township, this county, 
adjoining the Beaver county line, where he 
has ever since resided," following farming and 
stock raising. He has also dealt in agricultural 
implements. Although not a wealthy man, Mr. 
Arnold enjoys the world and takes life cheerfully, 
doing his duty day by day. In politics he is an 
enthusiastic Republican, taking a warm interest in 
the success of his party. Mrs. Arnold is a mem- 
ber of the King's Creek U. P. Church. 



/ 



HER O. BROWNLEE is descended from 
one of the oldest pioneer families "I Wash 
ingtou county, Penn. Archibald Brownlee, 
the earliest known ancestor, was born near 
Glasgow, Scotland, and passed his early 
youth in his native land. When a young man he 
emigrated to America with his wife and family, 
and Inciting in eastern Pennsylvania resided there 
many years previous to the Revolution, and there 
reared a family of children, three of whom were: 
Thomas (born in Scotland), James and William.' 
The Indians becoming hostile drove settlers (men- 
tioned) backto eastern Pennsylvania. The Revolu- 
tion breaking out, Thomas enlisted under General 
Washington, and was one of his ferrymen crossing 
the Delaware. He was also one of Washington's 
select marksmen, and was a man of great muscular 
power, weighing from two huudred and fifty to 
three hundred pounds. 

Thomas Brownlee, son of Archibald, grew to 
manhood, and was married to Martha Shearer. 
After taking up his claim and after the Revolution 
the young man came farther west, locating in Buf- 
falo township, Washington Co., Penn. He there 
entered 600 acres of land, nearly half of which tract 
is still in the possession of his descendants. His 
brothers, James and William, and his cousins, 
James and John Brownlee, eacli took up 600 acres. 
The following children were born to Thomas and 
Martha Brownlee: Hamilton, Archibald. David, 
Margaret, Jane and Martha; all of whom are now 
deceased. The mother of these children died, and 
after several lonely years, Mr. Brownlee was united 
in marriage with Elizabeth Muncy, who bore him 
four children: William T., Elizabeth, Rachel and 
Susan, ail of whom are deceased. Of these chil- 
dren, William T. Brownlee was killed in Missouri, 
by a neighbor with whom he had some trouble. 

Archibald, son of Thomas and Martha (Shearer) 
Brownlee, was born January 12, 179r>, on the farm 
in Buffalo township, Washington county. He was 
one of the first Abolitionists, and took an active 



part in smuggling slaves, being interested in the 
underground railway, which was made to assist 
the fugitive negro in escaping to Canada. Mr. 
Brownlee was married to Keziah, daughter of 
William, and descendant of Archibald Brownlee, 
and the following children were born to their 
union: Joanna (residing in Kansas), Ariel (living 
in Buffalo township, Washington county), Eben- 
ezer (a minister in Blue Earth City, Minn.), Mar- 
garet (living in Washington county), Keziah (de- 
ceased), Martha, Elizabeth and Jonathan (residents 
of Washington county). Of the above family, 
Ariel Brownlee was born July 10, 1829, on the 
property in Buffalo township, which he now owns. 
He received a common-school education, and was 
reared to farm work. He enlisted in Company A, 
Eighty-fifth P. V. I., under Capt. H. J. Van 
Kirk, and took part in the engagements of Pair 
Oaks, Deep Bottom and numerous skirmishes 
lo reiving his discharge, he returned to the farm, 
upon which he has since resided. Politically he 
is a Republican, and in religion a United Presbj 
terian. 

Jonathan Brownlee, son of Archibald and Keziah 
Brownlee, was born in Buffalo township, Washington 
county, and passed his youth on the farm, where 
he received a fair education, and afterward taught 
eight terms of school. On November 28, 1854, he 
was married to Catherine Anderson, daughter of 
Benjamin Anderson, Donegal township, Washing- 
ton county, and to them the following children 
have been born: Anderson (a minister (U. P.) liv 
ing at Martin's Ferry, Ohio), Alvin (deceased), 
Nettie, Ner O. , Carrie, Jennie. Melvin (deceased) 
and Hervey (deceased). Mr. Brownlee has a farm 
of 136 acres and is engaged in stock raising, giv- 
ing especial attention to breeding hogs, sheep and 
cattle. In polities he is an active Republican, 
having filled various township otlices. 

Ner O. Brownlee, born March 3, 1861, son of 
Jonathan and Catherine (Anderson) Brownlee, re- 
ceived a fair education, to which he has added 
much valuable knowledge, making stock raising a 
special study. On October 20, 1886, he was mar- 
ried to Beatrice, daughter of Thomas Noble, of 
Wheeling, W. Va. This lady died November 28,1892, 
leaving two children: Thomas Owen, born Janu 
ary 4, 1888, and Louisa O, born July 16, 1889 
(died June 20, 1891). Like his father Mr. Brown- 
lee is a Republican, but not an active politician. 
In religion he is connected with the United Pies 
byterian Church at Claysville. 



EiBENEZER BUCHANAN, a retired farmer 
of West Alexander, Penn., was born July 



7, 1815, in Ohio county, W.Va. He is a son of 
John Buchanan, whose father was a native 



of Ireland, and the first of the family to emigrate 
to America. He located in Pennsylvania, where 



1-242 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



his son John was born, who there grew to man- 
hood, and was united in marriage with Catherine 
Blayney, of Ohio county, W. Va. 

After his mariage, Mr. Buchanan remained in 
Ohio county some time. In 1816 he moved to 
Champaign county, Ohio, becoming a pioneer of 
that county, where he died in the following year. 
He had seven children, only three of whom lived 
to an adult age, namely: George (deceased at the 
age of seventy years), Ebeuezer (subject of this 
sketch) and Martha (living on the home farm). 
Alter the death of her husband, Mrs. Buchanan 
and her three living children removed to Belmont 
county, Ohio, where she lived for sometime, thence 
proceeded to her native place in Ohio county, W. 
Va. She died in 1870, at the age of eighty-six 
years, and is now buried in the U. P. graveyard, 
at West Alexander. 

Ebenezer Buchanan is the youngest of a family 
of seven children. He was but a small boy when 
his father .lied, and at the age of twelve years he 
becan to learn the tanner's trade at Taylorstown, 
F .-nil. After serving his apprenticeship, he began 
business for himself in 1836, at Good Intent, 
Washington county. In the year 1838 he was 
married to Jane Templeton. who was born Novem- 
ber 12, 1818, in West Finley township; she is the 
daughter of Alexander Templeton, a pioneer. 
Alexander Templeton was born in 1786, one mile 
east of Washington, Penn., of Irish parentage. 
He married Charity McClaiu, of Pigeon Creek, in 
1816, settled on a farm in West Finley township, 
aid to them were born two sons and four daugh- 
ters. Their sons became Presbyterian ministers. 
Samuel M. married Margaret, daughter of Rev. 
James Dickey, and died in 1867. Milo married 
Agnes Rentoul, of Montrose, Scotland, and died 
in lSf'>:i, both leaving families. The daughters are 
all married, and are still living. 

Mr. and Mrs. Buchanan have had the following 
children: MaKina C. (Mrs. William Henderson, 
of Ohio Co., W. Va.), John Alexander (whose 
health was wrecked in the Civil war, is an apiarist 
(if Holiday's Cove. Hancock Co., W. Va.), Elmira 
J. (deceased at the age of ten years), Theresa C. 
(deceased at the age of twelve years), Caroline V. 
(also deceased in her twelfth year), George Mil- 
ton (deceased when seven years of age) and Ells- 
worth (a groceryman of Claysville, Penu.). After 
his marriage Mr. Buchanan farmed in Marshall 
county, W. Va. , until 1847, when he removed to 
Ohio county. In the year 1865 he came to Done- 
gal township, Washington Co., Penn., and located 
tin the borders of West Alexander. Since the town 
has increased in extent. Mr. Buchanan has prac- 
tically become a citizen. In 1885 he retired from 
active life, and with his wife is now enjoying the 
fruits of fifty five years of toil. He is an enthu- 
siastic member of the Republican party, but 



though nominations have been tendered him, he 
prefers to give his time to his private business. 
Both Mr. Buchanan and his wife are members of 
the Presbyterian Church at West Alexander. 



MITH FRY. The Fry family, of whom this 
gentleman is a prominent member, are num- 
bered with the earliest and most progressive 
citizens of Washington county. 
The first of the name to settle in Pennsylvania 
was one Samuel Fry, who was born in 17 — , in 
Virginia, and was there married to Christina 
Speers, also a native of Virginia, born in 1752. 
They came overland to Washington county, Penn., 
in an early day, and July 19, 1792, took a "toma- 
hawk right" to a large tract of laud in Fallowfield 
township. Samuel Fry was a famous hunter, and 
also worked on his farm, remaining in the fort at 
night, for protection from the Indians. He died 
in 1S14, being survived by his wife till November 
9, 1841, when she too passed away. 

Abraham Fry, son of Samuel and Christina 
(Speers) Fry, was born in 1792, on the home farm 
in Fallowfield township, Washington Co., Penn. 
He received a subscription-school education, and 
in early life was married to Isabella Ringland, a 
native of Washington county. She bore him 
eleven children, namely: Samuel (living in Allen 
township, Washington county), John (also living 
in Allen township), Christina (Mrs. Abraham Colvin, 
of Fallowfield township), Abraham (who entered 
the United States service in Washington county, 
and is now living near Nashville, Tenn.), Henry, a 
resident of Sumner county, Tenn., on the Cumber 
landriver), Noah (who died in Fallowfieldtownship), 
Sarah (wife of Thomas McGowan, Lock No. 4, Fal- 
lowfield township), Jackson, living in Cowley coun- 
ty, Kans. (he enlisted in the Civil war, was taken 
prisoner, and was confined in Andersonville prison 
eleven months), Clarissa (who married Alexander 
Allnian, and died in East Pike Run township), 
Smith (of whom a sketch follows) and Isabelle 
I wife of Elgy Van Voorhis, of Kansas City., Mo). 
After their marriage Abraham and Isabelle Fry 
settled on the upper part of the old homestead in 
Fallowfield township. He was actively interested 
in public matters, and first affiliated with the 
Democratic party, then becoming a Whig and Re- 
publican. He died December 11, 1866, followed 
by his widow April 12, 1881, she having lived to 
see her youngest daughter the mother of twelve 
children. Both parents were members of the 
Church of Christ. 

Smith Fry was born March 4, 1836, on the old 
homestead in Fallowfield township, and is the tenth 
child in onler of birth. He attended the district 
schools, passing his boyhood on the farm, and 
March 21, 1861, he married Mary Ann Mitchell, a 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1245 



native of Fallowlield township, Washington Co., 
l'enn. Her parents were Mark and Lucinda (Bur- 
gan) Mitchell, natives of Washington county, Penu. , 
and members of the Church of Christ. James and 
Elizabeth (Smock) Burgan, natives of Westmore- 
land county, were among the early pioneers of 
Washington county, and members of the Church 
of Christ. He was remarkably well versed in the 
Scriptures, and it is said of him that he could re- 
cite entire chapters without prompting. He 
served in the war of 1812. Mr. and Mrs. Fry be- 
gan wedded life on the old place, where he owns 
136 acres of good land, and is giving considerable 
attention to stock raising, especially heavy-draft 
Clydesdale horses. In his political preferences he 
votes with the Republican party. His wife is a 
member of the Church of Christ. Their children 
are Harvey J. Fry, living in Fallowfield township. 
married to Miss Maie Reeves, January 12, 1888; 
Lucinda Isabella, wife of Joseph Nutt; Charley 
Smith; Abram Elgy; Clara Estella, and Cora Oella. 



JIOHN MAHAFFEY RUSH, a prominent 
farmer and stock raiser of Hopewell town- 
I ship, is of Irish descent, his father. Patrick 
Rush, having been boru December 25, 1797, 
in County Tyrone, Ireland. Patrick's parents 
were John and Mary Rush, natives of County 
Tyrone, where they resided during their entire 
lives. 

Patrick Rush evinced a desire to come to 
America, and when but fourteen years of age, 
joined a party of friends, named Miller, who were 
about to emigrate. His parents pleaded with him 
to remain at home until he reached manhood, but 
with the impetuosity of youth he determined to 
sail immediately, and was permitted to accompany 
his friends on board the vessel, where he concealed 
himself until out of port. His friends paid for his 
passage, and he promised to work for them after 
reaching America until he could repay them. The 
Miller family came to Mt. Pleasant township, 
this county, and began clearing land. After work- 
ing out his debt, young Patrick Rush hired to Mr. 
Miller by the year, remaining in his employ for 
several years. On Christmas Day, 1829, he was 
married to Sarah Mehaffey, a native of Ireland, 
boru September 18, 1799, in County Down, Ireland. 
She was the daughter of John and Nancy Mehaffey. 
The latter family came to America and settled in 
Chartiers township, when Sarah was thirteen years 
of age, locating near Cross Roads Church, where 
Mr. Mehaffey was killed September 25, 1825, by a 
falling tree, while cutting timber for the church. 
After his marriage to Sarah Mehaffey. Patrick 
Rush rented a farm in Mt. Pleasant township, 
this county, upon which he remained for thirty 
years. He purchased two farms, which he sold, 



and in 1849 removed to Hopewell township, where 
the subject of our sketch is now living. Five 
children were born to Patrick and Sarah Rush, 
namely: John M., Nancy (wife of James Bigger, 
of Muskingum county, Ohio), Mary Jane (wife of 
Matthew Knox, of Guernsey county, Ohio), Robert 
(lieutenant of the Ringgold Battalion, Pennsylvania 
Cavalry, killed at Rodney, Va.) and Sarah (married 
to Samuel Armstrong, of Guernsey county, Ohio). 
The mother died in October, 1880. She and her 
husband were members of the United Presbyterian 
Church. In politics Mr. Rush was a Democrat, 
but aside from attending election, took no active 
part in political affairs. He was a man of keen 
perceptive faculties and good judgment. Begin 
ning life for himself when so very young, he had 
no opportunity for getting a literary education, 
yet he was in every sense of the word a successful 
man, and accumulated a handsome property. He 
died in August, 1880. 

John M. Rush was born October 22, 1830, in 
Mt. Pleasant township, and was sent to a subscrip- 
tion school, which he attended during the winters 
until seventeen years of age. He has a vivid 
recollection of the schools of that time, which were 
in sharp contrast to the present school system. 
The rude log schoolhouse with its primitive furni- 
ture familiar to every pioneer was the " temple of 
learning " where he received his education. The 
course of study pursued at that time included such 
text-books as "Cobb's Speller" and " U. S. 
Speller," "Western Calculator" and "English 
Reader." Quill pens were used, and the "copies 
were set by the master." Primitive as were the 
methods employed in those days, it was in such 
schools and by such methods that many of the 
most intellectual and able men of our day laid the 
foundation of their education. The training Mr. 
Rush then received has served well in his success- 
ful business career. At the age of seventeen year* 
he left school and engaged in wagoning between 
Hickory and Pittsburgh, hauling grain and mer 
chaudise, driving four or six horses to a great 
" Conostoga " wagon. He followed that business 
nine years, and in 1856 took charge of his father's 
farm, having since pursued the occupation of 
farming and stock raising. In 1857 he was mar- 
ried to Nancy, daughter of Charles and Elizabeth 
(Fronacker) 'Stoolfire, of Donegal township, and 
to them were born five children: Albert Stoolfire, 
Eudora Winona, Lillian, Sallie M. and Herbert. 
Mr. Rush is residing on his farm two miles south- 
east of West Middletown. He is a Democrat, but 
seeks no political prominence. Mrs. Rush and 
her daughters (all of whom are living at home) 
are members of the Disciple Church at West Mid- 
dletown. Mr. Rush has no church affiliations. 

Albert S. Rush, son of John M. and Nancy (Stool 
fire) Rush, was born August 20, 1860, and was reared 



1240 



WAS HIN GTON CO UN TV. 



on his father's farm in Hopewell township, this 
county. He received his early education at the 
district school known as Tartown school, attending 
there until about eighteen years of age. He then 
followed farming, working with his father until 
twenty two years of age, when he entered Duff's 
Commercial College at Pittsburgh, Penn., where 
he remained about three months, when sickness 
compelled his return home. Ou June 6, 1883, he 
was married to Miss San Jacinto Dnvall. daughter 
of Louis Dnvall. Their children are Albert John, 
Mary Nila and Stanley Oklahoma. In addition to 
managing a large farm, Mr. Rush does an exten- 
sive business in breeding, raising and selling pure 
blood Poland China pigs, Shropshire sheep, and 
Jersey cattle, all registered. His exhibits of stock 
raised on his farm during the last three years have 
excited the comment and admiration of tine stock 
fanciers throughout western Pennsylvania. His 
business is growing, and his sales book holds 
orders from Ohio, New York, Maryland and Vir- 
ginia, besides different localities in his own State. 
He possesses in an eminent degree those qualities 
which form a first class citizen, and is a credit to 
his community, enjoying the esteem of his neigh- 
bors. He leaves to others the business of politics, 
carit»g nothing for the allurements of office-holding, 
but voices his sentiments at every election by his 
ballot, being liberal in local elections, supporting 
the most suitable candidate. In national elections 
he supports the principles of pure Democracy. Mr. 
and Mrs. Rush are members of the Dutch Fork 
Disciple Church, and by precept, practice and 
financial support, perform their duty toward bus 
taining and promoting the cause of Christianity in 
the community. 



JfOHN M< MANNIS, one of the most prominent 
| native born agriculturists of Washington 
j county, is a son of William McMannis, who in 
very early days had settled in what is now 
Canton township, this county, having come, when a 
young man, from eastern Pennsylvania, where he 
was born in 1 7N7. 

William McMannis was married to Elizabeth, 
daughter of Patrick Burns, a native of Ireland, 
and the children born to this union were John, 
William, James, Ann, Elizabeth and Hannah. The 
father of this family died in 1S4U, the mother in 
lK7o. Mr. McMannis removed from Canton town 
ship many years ago, and took up his residence in 
Strabane township until 1830, in which year he 
came to Buffalo township and settled on a farm in 
Rural valley. In his political preferences he was 
an Old-line Whig. 

John McMannis, the eldest son of this honored 
pioneer, was born February 1. 1817, in Canton 
township, where his boyhood and youth were spent 



alternately in working on the farm and in attending 
the subscription schools of the locality On Feb 
ruary 20, 1S40, he was united in marriage with 
Mary, daughter of John Irwin, a farmer of Buffalo 
township, where he was reared, and where he was 
married to Elizabeth Anderson, who bore him the 
following named children: Thomas S., Leviah 
(wife of John McKee), Mary (wife of John Mc- 
Mannis). Matthew A., Sarah (wife of John P. 
Gamble), Elizabeth M. Iwifeof John Williamson) 
and John. Mr. Irwin was a member of the Seceder 
Church, and in politics an uncompromising Whig. 
After marriage Mr. and Mrs. McMannis resided 
three years on the farm with his father. He then 
located on a rented farm in Buffalo township, 
situated about one and one-half miles from Tay 
lorstown. This place he afterward purchased, and 
it was on this farm that the first oil well in the 
township was sunk. The names of the children 
born to them are Elizabeth (wife of J. R. Littell), 
Anna, Catherine (Mrs. William H. Torrence). 
Myra. and Tilla (wife of W. S. Richey). The 
mother of this family departed this life December 
21, 1871. in her fifty sixth year, a devout member 
of the U. P. Church. Mr. McMannis was originally 
a Democrat, but since 1856 he has been a Repub- 
lican; for twenty-four years he was a school di- 
rector, and from 1805 he served as a justice of the 
peace for ten years, or. in fact, till he declined to 
serve longer, even when re-elected. 

In the summer of 1889 Mr. McMannis retired 
from active business life, and having sold the farm 
to the Washington Oil Company, he moved into 
the village of Taylorstown. where he now resides 
enjoying in the sunset of his life the fruits of his 
earlier labors. He is well known among the old 
residents of Buffalo township, and has always been 
identified with its advancement. He is a repre 
sentative self-made man, one who from small be 
gi nnings has by industry, economy and sound judg- 
ment accumulated an ample competence. He has 
never used tobacco or liquor in any form, and is 
hale and hearty, universally respected and es- 
teemed. 



fli LEXANDER McCONNEL is one of the 
I |\ leading agriculturists and stockmen of 
r~"l\ Chartiers township. His grandfather, 

Jl -* Alexander McConnel, was born July 10, 
i 1755, in Charlotte county, Va., and in early 

manhood married Esther Reed, who was born May 
16, 1750. She died November 30, 1786, and on 
April 28, 1789, Mr. McConnel was united in mar- 
riage with Elizabeth McCrory, who was born Feb- 
ruary 20, 1707. They settled near Carlisle, Penn., 
and a few years later came to Cecil township, this 
county, where he took a patent of land. He died 
many years ago. and his wife survived him several 



WASHINGTON COUNTY". 



1247 



years. To them were born the following children: 
Alexander, David (deceased in Cecil township), 
oorn October 5, 1791 ; Jean, born October 11, 1793; 
Prudence, born November 14, 1795 (wife of James 
Oram, of Cecil township, Washington Co., Penu., 
deceased at Washington, Iowa, in 1890); Nancy, 
born September 26, 1797; and Matthew, born Oc- 
tober 25, 1799. 

Alexander McConuel, father of subject, was born 
February 2, 1790, on the home farm in Cecil town- 
ship, where he grew to manhood, and was married 
to Ann Berry, a native of this county. The young 
people first located in Allegheny county, Perm. , 
then moved to Cecil township, this county, and six 
year's afterward settled on a farm in North Stra- 
bane township, carrying on a mill in connection 
with farm duties. Mr. and Mrs. McConnel were 
the parents of the following children: Alexander, 
Elizabeth, Jane (first married to Daniel Boyle--. 
and is now living in Washington, the widow of 
Mr. Collins), Mary A. (living in North Strabane 
township, widow of Richard Fife, his third wife), 
Isabelle (deceased wife of Dr. Vail, of Roche] le, 
111.), John (married, living in North Strabane town- 
ship, on the old homestead). David (who died about 
1856), William (a United Presbyterian minister, 
licensed in June, 1856, first called to the church at 
Hanover, Beaver Co., Penn., and in 1858 came to 
West Newton, Penn. He married Miss Anna Mc- 
Clurkin. of Pittsburgh, and died July IS. 1866, 
in Allegheny, Penn.), Matthew (deceased in 1886), 
James (married, living in Houstonville, this 
county) and Anderson (deceased in 1884). After 
the mother of these children died, Mr. McConnel 
married a Miss Torrence, who survived him about 
one year. He was a soldier in the war of 1812. in 
politics was first a Whig, then a Republican, and a 
strong opponent of slavery. He assisted in the 
organization of the Society which is now the 
Greenside United Presbyterian Church, of which 
he was an elder from the first organization of the 
body, holding that position until his death. He 
resided in North Strabane township for more than 
sixty years, then moved to Peters township, this 
county, where he died about two years afterward. 

Alexander McConnel. whose name opens this 
sketch, was born December 20, 1816, in Allegheny 
county, Penn., being the eldest in his father's 
family. When but three years of age he came 
with them to Cecil township, this county, and 
when he was nine years of age, the parents settled 
on the home place in North Strabane township, 
where Alexander completed his education in the 
subscription schools. He learned the trade of a 
millwright, and in 1847 came to Chartiers town 
ship, erecting a flouring-mill known as McConnel's 
Mill, on Chartiers creek, which business he fol- 
lowed fifteen years, also working at his trade. On 
December 8, 1853, he was united in marriage with 



the 
In 
H. 



Eliza McKnight, of Chartiers township, daughter 
of Joseph and Sarah (Anderson) McKnight, the 
father a native of Cecil county, Md., and the 
mother a native of Ireland. After their marriage 
the young people settled on the farm in Chartiers 
township which is their present home. Four 
children have blessed their union, viz.: Alexander 
Anderson (who died July 6, 1862), born April 8, 
1856; J. M., born SeptemberH, 1858; John O., born 
August 24, 1860; and one deceased in infancy. Of 
these children, John graduated in 1883 from 
Westminster College, read medicine one year, and 
was then educated for the ministry at Allegheny, 
Penn., finishing at Xenia (Ohio) Seminary, and 
was licensed to preach. He was ordained in 
Westmoreland Presbytery at Ligouier, Penn. 
1889 he married Mary, daughter of Rev. J. 
Timmous. 

Mr. McConnel owns a fertile and well-cultivated 
farm of 230 acres, and, since coming to Chartiers 
township, has devoted his time to its improvement 
and management. He was formerly a Whig, but 
since the organization of the Republican party 
has voted the latter ticket, and has served four 
terms as township supervisor. He and his wife 
are' earnest members of the United Presbyterian 
Church at Cross Roads, in which he has been a 
ruling elder for many years. In his youth Mi. 
McConnel joined the Spear Spring Church, now 
known as the Greenside Church. 

At Dr. Martin's store in Canonsburg, the second 
attempt was made to build the Chartiers Railroad. 
Wesley Grier, David Houston and Alexander Mc- 
Connel were talking with others about the great 
benefit that the building of this road would be. 
The three at once subscribed $1,000 apiece, and got 
others at the store to subscribe smaller amounts 
These three men also raised more money: Mr 
McConnel raised $8,000 within four miles of his 
home; the start thus made secured the road. -and 
Mr. McConnel took $1,800 worth of stock. 



JAMES R. STEWART. Prominent among the 
many families of Irish descent who have 
added so greatly to the improvement of 
America, ranks the one of which this gentle- 
man was an honored member. As early as 
1795 John and Mary Stewart emigrated from Ire- 
land, bringing with them their four children, and 
made for themselves a new home in what was then 
an undeveloped country. Mr. Stewart died, 
December 18. 1836, when eighty-six years old; his 
wife preceded him to the grave February 12, 1836, 
being at the time eighty-five years of age. 

The eldest son, Archibald Stewart, married 
Rebecca Reed, a native of Pennsylvania, and after 
his marriage settled in ChartieiB township, Wash- 
ington Co. , Penn., where he engaged in farming 



1248 



WASHINGTON COUN TY. 



and also carried on the blacksmith's trade. He was 
an elder in the Associate Reformed Church and in 
the United Presbyterian Church at Cross Roads. 
Politically he was a Republican. His death 
occurred June 5, 1862, after he had attained his 
seventy fifth year, and on May 3, 1857, his wife 
passed from earth in her sixty fourth year. Their 
children were: James R., who married Elizabeth 
T. Miller; Mary, Mrs. Samuel Griffith, of Hickory, 
Mt. Pleasant township. Washington county; Jane, 
Mrs. William S. White, who died in 1883; Joseph, 
who was married in Illinois, and died there; Will- 
iam, who lives in Villisea, Iowa, and is married; 
Margaret, who married David Miller, and died in 
1872; Sarah, Mrs. Andrew Miller, of Mt. Pleasant 
township, and John, who first married Miss Eliza 
McLaughlin, and afterward Miss Elizabeth Slem- 
uions. He died in 188(3. in Donegal township, 
Washington county. 

James R. Stewart was born June 9, 1812, on the 
farm where his widow now resides. His educa- 
tional advantages were very limited, the schools of 
that time being only rude huts, and the teachers 
being but indifferently prepared to impart knowl- 
edge. However, he learned the blacksmith's trade 
thoroughly under the tutorage of his father, and 
afterward followed it in connection with farming. 
On May 23. 1839, Mr. Stewart married Miss Eliza 
beth T. Miller, a daughter of Jacob and Jane 
(Filston) Miller, and after their marriage the young 
couple resided on the home farm, where Mrs. 
Stewart is now living, and where Mr. Stewart died, 
May 22, 1880. He was siucerely mourned by the 
numerous friends who appreciated his sterling 
worth and strict integrity. Mr. and Mrs. Stewart 
were earnest church workers, and devoted much 
attention to deeds of charity. Their union was 
blessed with two children: JacnbM. (of Chartiers 
township, who married Miss Rebecca Todd, and 
after" her death married Miss Lizzie Grounds) and 
Rebecca, who married, October 20, 1 804, William 
H. Thompson, who was born in Canonsburg. May 
17. 1837. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Thomp- 
son located in Canonsburg, where he engaged in 
wagon making, and then moved to Hickory, where 
he died February 1, 1873. at the age of thirty-six 
yeiirs. He was an active worker in the Repub- 
lican party; and was a member of the United Pres- 
byterian Church at Canonsburg. The children 
horn of their union were: a son who died in in 
fancy; Stewart J:, a farmer by occupation, who 
owns the valuable farm on which he lives; Joseph 
H, a graduate of Duff's Commercial College, 
Pittsburgh, Penn. ; Elizabeth Emma (deceased) 
and Millie R. Mrs. Thompson has given her 
children superior educations; she now makes her 
homo with her children on the farm. 

Jacob Miller, father of Mrs. Stewart, was born 
in eastern Pennsylvania, and there married Jane 



Filston, also a native of that section of the State. 
Soon after their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Miller 
moved to Washington county, locating near Mc 
Council's Mill, in Chartiers township, and a few 
years later took possession of the property, now 
known as the "Col. Robert Miller" farm, where 
the following children were born: Rachel. Mrs. 
Thomas Sproat, of South Strabane; Mary, Mrs 
Samuel McNary (she and her husband have 
each been married before); Nancy. Mrs. John 
Boon; Jane, Mrs Richard Sproat, of Ohio; Samuel, 
who married Miss Mary Ann Cockins, and lives in 
Mt. Pleasant township; Catherine, Mrs. James 
McDowell, of Mt. Pleasant township; Jacob, who 
married and moved to Ohio; Margaret, Mrs. John 
McDowell, Mt. Pleasant township; Robert, who 
first married Abbicah Cnndal, and afterward made 
Elizabeth Glen his wife (he died in October, 1891); 
Elizabeth T , Mrs. James R. Stewart; Sarah, Mrs. 
James Patterson; and Sophia, who has never mar- 
ried. Mrs. Elizabeth T. Stewart is the only 
member of the Miller family now living, and is a 
worthy representative of her highly respected 
ancestors. 



GLARE PRESTON, an honored citizen and 
representative agriculturist of Somerset 
township, is a native of the same, having 
been born October 10, 1837, a son of John 
Preston and grandson of Bernard Preston. 
Bernard Preston was born April 29. 1754. in 
Maryland, and was reared on the home place in his 
native State. On May 7, 1776, he was united in 
marriage with Mary Preston, also a native of Mary- 
land, born March 19, 1759. He followed farming, 
and in 1784 moved to Pennsylvania, purchasing a 
large tract of land in Washington county, where 
he and his devoted wife remained the rest of their 
lives, rearing the following children: Sarah, 
Nathan, Jacob, Samuel, Anna, Elizabeth, Daniel, 
Jonathan, Silas, Bernard and John. The parents 
of this family were members of the M. E. Church, 
the old church building of that denomination 
being on the farm now owned and occupied by our 
subject. 

John Preston, the youngest son of Bernard and 
Mary (Preston) Preston, was reared on the home 
farm, and early in life was married to Margaret. 
daughter of Robert and Jane Clark, the latter of 
whom died in 1800. To this union were born live 
children, viz. : Mary J. (deceased wife of Dr. W. 
L. S. Willes, of Washington county, Penn.), Clark 
(subject of sketch), Loanimi (deceased), John F. 
(living in Neosho county, Ivans.), and Lacy A. 
(unmarried), a resident of Monougahela City, 
Penn. The father died September 24, 1884, the 
mother in 1851, the former a member of the 
M. F. Church, the latter a Presbyterian. 







^duO-4 (M-C^nrU 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1251 



Clark Prestou grew to manhood on the Lome 
farm, receiving « common-school education. In 
1862 he enlisted in Company D, Ringgold Bat- 
talion. P. V. C, was honorably discharged, and is 
now drawing a pension. On September 18, 1807, 
he was married to Catherine C. Teeple, who was 
born September 22, 1844, in Washington county, 
Penn., daughter of Isaac and Margaret (Williams) 
Teeple, both also natives of Washington county, 
and who had nine children: Thomas (a farmer of 
Neosho county, Kans.), Theodore (a farmer of 
Carroll township, Washington county), Catherine 
C. (wife of Clark Preston). Sarah (unmarried), 
Emma S. (married to A. J. Hess, a farmer of Pal 
lowfield township, this county), Adda T. (wife of 
Robert McKee, deceased farmer of Allegheny 
county), and Josephine T. (wife of Thomas Edgar); 
the others died in infancy. The father died in 
1881, a member of the Presbyterian Church; the 
mother passed awav in 1868, an adherent of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church. 

Clark and Catherine C. (Teeple) Preston have 
had the following children: Clyde A., born July 
27, 1868; Harry A., born September 26, 1869; Metta 
M., born July 19, 1871; Theodore A., born March 
17, 1873; Isaac O, born February 28, 1875; Vance 
L. G , born October 28, 1876. and Cooper M, 
born August 27, 1879. Mr. Preston is not in- 
terested in political questions, but votes the Re- 
publican ticket, and takes an active part in all mat 
ters pertaining to church or school: he has served 
fifteen years as school director. He and his wife 
are members of the Presbyterian Church. The 
home farm consists of 140 acres of land, in a high 
state of cultivation, upon which is erected a com- 
fortable two-story dwelling, also a commodious 
barn and substantial outbuildings. 



y\ILLIAM PATTERSON, a worthy repre- 
/ sentative of an old pioneer family, is a 
son of William Patterson, whose grand- 
father. James, was the first of the family 
to settle in America. Of the children of 
this James Patterson, William was born in 1733. 
anil in 1758 was married to Rosanna Scott, of Cecil 
county, Md. She died April 5, 1769. and on April 
10, 1770, he was married to Elizabeth Brown, who 
"bore him ten children. In the spring of 1778 he 
and several of his sons secured 350 acres of land 
in Cross Creek township, this county, upon which 
he settled in the fall of same year, dying there in 
1818. 

Thomas Patterson, a son of William and Rosan- 
na (Scott) Patterson, was born October 1, 1764. and 
passed his boyhood on the home farm. In 1794 he 
bought some of his father's land, erecting a grist 
and flour mill upon it, and also purchased addi- 
tional property from Mary Patterson. On Octo- 



ber 6, 1795, he was married to Elizabeth Findley, 
daughter of Hon. William Findley, of Westmore 
land county, Penn. The young people began house 
keeping in a log cabin, which was formerly used 
as a store, and in this pioneer home eleven chil- 
dren were born: William, James, Samuel, John, 
Thomas, Findley, Moses and David, and Mary, 
Elizabeth and Rosanna. Thomas Patterson, Sr., 
was a major-general in the militia. He was a 
member of Congress from 1817 to 1825, and of the 
Electoral College in 1816. He died of apoplexy 
November 17, 1841. 

William Patterson, son of Thomas and Elizabeth 
(Findley) Patterson, was born September 25, 1796, 
and at an early age was entrusted with the care of 
the farm and mills, during his father's absence on 
political business. In 1812 his father established 
a fulling mill, of which William took charge as 
soon as he was competent. In 1819 he was united 
in marriage with Margaret, daughter of Hon. Aaron 
Lyle, a resident of Cross Creek township, this 
county. William Patterson was a prominent officer 
in the militia, and organized and commanded the 
Union Volunteer Battalion; was also major on the 
staff of the brigadier general of militia. In 1828 
he was elected to the State Legislature, serving 
four consecutive terms, and during the last term 
was Speaker of the House. He took a very active 
interest in all educational matters, secured the 
erection of an elegant schoolhouse near his home, ■ 
contributing liberally to the expenses, and serving 
most efficiently as director. While in the Legisla- 
ture he obtained $8,000 from the State to erect a new 
building for Jefferson College. In 1844 he became 
a member of the Electoral College, and in 1859, 
retiring from a brilliant public career, he passed 
his last days in quiet. The children born to Will- 
iam and Margaret Patterson were Lysander, Mary, 
James, Robert, Aaron Lyle, Caroline, William. 
Margaret, Thomas A., and Samuel Findley. The 
father died in April, 1879, the mother in March. 
1883. 

William Patterson, son of William and Margaret 
(Lyle) Patterson, was born January 4, 1832, in 
Cross Creek township, this county, and received a 
common- school education, assisting at the same time, 
his father on the farm and in the mill. On Jan 
uary 8, 1856, he was wedded to Sarah Margaret 
Jackson, who was born December 22, 1838. in Jef 
ferson county, Ohio, daughter of James Jackson 
They have had the following children: Mary (Mrs. 
Eli Sheets, of Ashland county, Ohio), Sarah Ella 
(wife of Newton Simpson, of Hill Grove. Hardin 
Co., Ky.), James J. (deceased in youth), Margaret 
(a school teacher), Jennie, Lewis Cass, Annie. 
Robert Lee (deceased in youth). Elvira B. and 
William B. Mr. Patterson farmed in Independ- 
ence township for some time after his marriage, 
then moved to Ashland county, Ohio, remaining 



1252 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



there several years, but again came to this county. 
He afterward located near Springfield, Ohio, but 
in the fall of 1875 returned to his native home, 
settling about two and a half miles south of Iu 
dependence, this county, adjoining the West Vir- 
ginia line, where he has since resided. He is en 
gaged in farming, stock raising and iu fruit and 
vegetable culture. 

He enjoys a reputation for integrity and veracity, 
as well as that of being an independent thinker, 
un trammeled by any creed, dogma, superstition, 
preconceived or inherited notion. He is not a 
member of any religious or secret organization, 
but claims the right to investigate all questions 
(both secular and religious) for himself, subject to 
no dictator except instructed reason. He believes 
that, faith without knowledge is a delusion and a 
snare. His motto, expressed in the language of 
the poet, is: 

New occasions teach new duties, 
Time makes ancient creeds untruth; 
He must upward then ami onward, 
Who would keep abreast of truth. 

Tempora mutantur, et nos mutamur in Mis. 
(The times change, and we change with them.) 




WILLIAM S. RUSSELL was born Febru- 
ary 12, 1843, in Smith township, this 
county. He is one of the leading agri- 
culturists of the vicinity, and a lineal de 
scendant of Abraham Russell, who was 
born in Ireland, and, coming to America soon after 
the war of the Revolution, was married in this 
country. He became one of the earliest settlers 
of Smith township, this county, at a time when 
the Indians made fearful slaughter among the 
white pioneers. He was a successful farmer, and 
served his country in the war of 1812, dying at an 
advanced age, and leaving the following children, 
who also lived to advanced ages: William (men- 
tioned below). James and John (twins, the latter 
of whom died in Allegheny county, Penn.) and 
Nancy (wife of Jacob Drake, a farmer of Arm 
strong county, Penn.). 

William Russell, eldest son of Abraham Rus- 
sell, was born in the latter part of the last century, 
in Smith township, this county, receiving a some- 
what imperfect schooling, as the opportunities of 
those days were very meager and primitive. In 
1708 he was married to Nancy Strain, whose par- 
ents were early settlers in Smith township, and in 
about 1800 Mr. and Mrs. Russell, with their in- 
fant son. removed to Portage county. Ohio, resid- 
ing there until the close of the war of 1812, in 
which William was a soldier. Being dissatisfied 
with the country, he returned about 1815 to Smith 
township, and located near the line of Cross Creek 
township, where he continued to follow farming 



until his death. In politics he was a Democrat. 
His wife died several years before her husband, 
and left the following children : Abraham (deceased 
in this county at the age of eighty-five; he never 
married), Sarah (deceased wife of James Fulton, 
formerly of Cross Creek township, then moved to 
Hanover township, this county), John S., Samah- 
tha (who cared for her father in his old age and 
died unmarried) and James (deceased iu Colum- 
biana county, Ohio). 

John S. Russell was born February 14, 1806, in 
Portage county, Ohio, on the home farm, where he 
was initiated into the mysteries of agricultural Life. 
On February 12, 1833, he was married to Jane 
Simpson, who was born September 3, 1815, daugh- 
ter of James and Ellen (Stewart) Simpson, old and 
early residents of the township. The children 
born to this union were as follows: Ellen (living 
iu Burgettstowu, Penn., unmarried). Cynthia (un- 
married, also residing in Burgettstown), Margaret 
(wife of James Dunbar, of Smith township), Ophe 
lia (Mrs. Hugh Wilson, of Hanover township, this 
county), William S. (subject of our sketch), Agnes 
(an unmarried lady of Burgettstown, Penn.), James 
C. (an agriculturist of Smith township) and David 
A. (deceased farmer of Smith township). Mrs. 
Russell died July 23, 1851, and for his second 
wife Mr. Russell married Mary A. Vincent, who 
was born February 20, 1818, daughter of Joseph 
and Sarah (Rea) Vincent, of Mt. Pleasant town- 
ship, this county. Two children were born to 
John S. and Mary (Vincent) Russell: John (who 
died in youth) and Jane (Mrs. D. W. Smith, of 
Smith township, this county). After his first mar- 
riage Mr. Russell settled on a farm one mile west 
of Bulger, Smith towuship, where his life was 
passed successfully in agricultural pursuits. Year 
by year his possessions increased, until, by dint of 
careful management, business sagacity and good 
financiering, he became among the most extensive 
wool growers and largest landholders of the town- 
ship, at the time of his death owning nearly six 
hundred acres of valuable and productive real 
estate. In politics he was a Democrat, and in re- 
ligion a member of the Raccoon Presbyterian 
Church, which he served as an elder. He died 
September 15. 1879. 

William S. Russell was boru on a portion of the 
farm in Smith township, where he is now living, 
and was reared to rural life. On April 7, 1870, he 
was united in marriage with Miss Mary McBride, 
who was born March 5, 1842, a daughter of John 
McBride. The following children have blessed 
this union: Eva J., John M. , Holland S., Annie 
S., Clement K , Cynthia S., Walter S.. Luella and 
Dwight M. William S. and Mary (McBride) Rus 
sell settled on the "Old Simpson farm," one mile 
west of Bulger, where his maternal grandfather 
resided in early days. He devotes a considerable 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



T253 



portion of his time to general agriculture and 
stock raising, and also conducts a small dairy. 
H« was formerly a Democrat, afterward uniting 
with the Prohibition party, and in religion he and 
his wife are consistent members of the Raccoon 
Presbyterian Church, in which he is an elder. 



D 



AVID M. PRY is a substantial and pro- 
gressive citizen of Burgettstown, Penn. 
His grandfather was married in Virginia to 
a Miss Barnes, who bore him children as 
follows: John, Abraham, William L., Eliza (Mrs. 
John Powelson), Elizabeth (wife of Samuel Pascal, 
of Cross Creek township) and Mary. The father 
of this family was a Democrat in politics. 

Abraham Pry, father of David M. , was born 
November 10, 1813, in Hampshire county, \V. Va. 
The father died when the son was but four years of 
age, and the child was left to struggle through the 
perplexities of boyhood unaided, but he secured an 
education by dint of perseverance and energy, and 
when about twenty-two years of age came to 
Washington county, settling in Cross Creek town 
ship. In 1840 he was there married to Rachel, 
daughter of David McClurg, of the same township, 
and the young people then settled on the farm 
where they are yet living. The following children 
have been born to their union: David M., Cather- 
ine J. (deceased), John W., William H. and Jo- 
seph M. (twins, the latter of whom is deceased), 
Abraham, Cynthia J. (deceased), Anna M. (de- 
ceased), Ambrose (living in Iowa) and Francis H. 
(deceased). The father of this family was origi- 
nally a Democrat, then a Whig, finally uniting with 
the Republican party, whose principles he now sup- 
ports. He attends the Cross Creek Presbyterian 
Church, contributing liberally to its maintenance. 
David M. Pry, eldest son of Abraham and Rachel 
(McClurg) Pry, was born June 16, 1842, on the 
home farm in Cross Creek township, and remained 
with his parents until about twenty years of age. 
He enlisted in Company K, One Hundred and 
Fortieth P. V. I., serving throughout the Civil 
war. He was wounded at Spottsylvania, being 
shot in the leg by a musket ball, and was sent to 
the"Finley" hospital at Washington City. He 
remained there until mustered out of the service 
August 16, 1865, then returned home and engaged 
in farming. On October 5, 1865, he was united 
in marriage with Elizabeth, daughter of John Rea, 
of Cross Creek township, this county, and the 
children born to them were Nora L. , Jennie O. , 
Mary G., William R. (deceased) and Edwin B. 
After his marriage Mr. Pry followed farming for 
two years, and in 1868 opened a general store in 
Burgettstown, Penn. In 1884 he was elected 
recorder of the county, and served in that office 
until 1887, then returned to Burgettstown, resum- 



ing his former business. Mrs. Pry died in .Sep- 
tember, 1877, and was buried in the Presbyterian 
cemetery at Burgettstown. On February 5, 1885, 
Mr. Pry was united in marriage with Mary D., 
daughter of Robert Lee, of Jefferson township, 
this county. In politics Mr. Pry is a Republican, 
and has always been active in promoting the wel- 
fare of his party, being prominent in the county 
conventions, and has twice represented his county 
in the State conventions at Harrisburg. He has 
been five times appointed, by the Governor of the 
State, a notary public, serving in that capacity 
sixteen years, and on February 21, 1893, was 
elected a justice of the peace in the borough of 
Burgettstown. He is also enrolled as agent or at- 
torney, and admitted to practice before the De- 
partment <>f the Interior in Washington, D. ( '. : 
he has secured many pensions for disabled soldiers, 
widows, orphans and dependent parents of the late 
Civil war. He is a member of the Presbyterian 
Church at Burgettstown. and has held the office 
of elder since 1874. He was a delegate from the 
Washington Presbytery to the General Assembly 
of the Presbyterian Church of the United States, 
which met in Chicago in 1877. 



¥| C. CROUCH, farmer, is a prosperous citizen 
of Peters township. The first ancestor of 
rj) his family, concerning whose history there is 
^^ any record, was one Robert Crouch, a native 
of Maryland. This pioneer left his native 
State, and many years ago settled in Nottingham 
township, Washington Co.. Penn., where he re- 
ceived a Government patent for land, and passed 
his life in tilling the soil. His children were 
William, John, and two daughters, whose names 
are unknown. 

William Crouch, son of Robert, was born in 
Lindenfort, Penn., and reared to manhood in 
Nottingham township, Washington Co., Penn. 
In early life he married Miss Mcllvaine, and set- 
tled on a farm in North Strabane township, this 
county, where ten children were born to them, 
namely: George, Robert, John, Joseph, Isaiah, 
Watson, Daniel, Sarah, and two whose names are 
unknown. Mr. Crouch was an elder in the Pres- 
byterian Church. 

Watson Crouch was born in 1819, on the farm 
in North Strabane township. When a youug man 
he was married to Agnes, daughter of James 
Crawford, of Peters township, and she died leav- 
ing two children: an infant (deceased), and J. C, 
whose sketch follows. For his second wife Wat 
sou Crouch married Deborah, daughter of David 
Wells, and she has borne him eight children. In 
1858 the family moved to Marshall county, W. Va. , 
where they are yet living. 

J. C. Crouch, son of Watson and Agnes (Craw- 



1254 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



ford) Crouch, was born March 11, 1844, in North 
Strabane township, this county. In 1802 he en- 
listed in the Twelfth Regiment, W. Va. V. I., and 
served in the army of the James river. He re- 
mained until the contest was ended, and was pres- 
ent at Lee's surrender, then coining home resumed 
work on the farm. On December 17, 1809, he 
was married to Mary, daughter of William Mc- 
Murray, of Peters township, and six children have 
blessed their home, viz. : William J., Harvey W., 
Thomas B., Frank M., Charles M., and Ross" Em- 
mett, all of whom are living under the parental 
roof. The farm contains 160 acres of land. Mr. 
Crouch is actively interested in the success of the 
Republican party, and has held many township 
offices. He is a member and trustee of the United 
Presbyterian Church at Peters Creek. 



dl AMES and LEANDER McCORMICK. John 
McCormick was born in Scotland, and after 
landing in America came to Pennsylvania. 
About the year 177H he located on a farm 
situated on the boundary line between Allegheny 
and Washington counties. He was married in this 
country to Elizabeth McMillian, a native of Scot- 
land, who bore him six children, namely: John, 
James, Samuel, Griselda, Elizabeth and Mary, all 
of whom are now deceased. The father was a 
Revolutionary soldier, and returning home after 
the war, died on the old place. 

John McCormick, son of John and Elizabeth 
McCormick, was born in 1787, in eastern Pennsyl- 
vania. He was there married to Margaret John 
ston, who was born in 1789, daughter of Robert 
Johnston, a Revolutionary soldier, and the follow 
ing children were born to this union: John. Mary, 
Robert, James, Samuel, Agnes, Elizabeth, Margaret 
and George. Of this family James, Samuel and 
Margaret are yet living. 

James McCormick was born October 14, 1814, 
in Allegheny county, Penn., and passed his boy 
hood on the home place. He then learned the 
carpenter's trade, following the same for nineteen 
years, when he came to his present farm in Peters 
township. On December 14, 1843, he was mar- 
ried to Jane Wright, and their children were as 
follows: John, Leander, Jane, Margaret, Almira 
and Elizabeth. Those now living are John, Lean- 
der and Margaret. The mother died in 1859, and 
for his second wife James McCormick married on 
May 3. 1861, Elizabeth Mouck, who bore him two 
sons. William and James. This wife was laid to 
rest December 16, 1883. Mr. McCormick began 
life with no financial aid, and has accumulated a 
good property. He has eighty acres of fine land, 
upon which a good house has been erected.- In 
politics he is a stanch Republican, and has held 
many township offices. He has been a member of 



and elder in the United Presbyterian Church for 
thirty years. 

Leauder McCormick was born March 9, 1857, 
on the farm near Bower Hill, Washington county, 
Penn., where he remained during his minority. 
He then taught school three years in Chartiers, 
Peters, and Nottingham townships, and in 1881 
opened a store at Venetia, same county. On No 
vember 7, 1882, he was united in marriage with 
Angie, daughter of Amos Caseber, a resident of 
Nottingham township, this county. Leander Mc- 
Cormick was appointed the first postmaster of 
Venetia, and retained that office until 1886, when 
he was removed, owing to a change in the admin- 
istration. In 1889 he was reinstated by President 
Harrison, and has since tilled that position in con 
nection with his store. His property consists of 
two houses and lots in the town, the store room and 
a fine dwelling now in process of erection. Polit- 
ically, he is a stanch Republican, and has served 
in various township offices; in religion he is a 
member, trustee, and treasurer of the Presbyterian 
Church at Finleyville. Mr. and Mrs. McCormick 
have three children: Eva J., Elmer L. and James 
Benjamin Harrison. 



Jl W. DONALDSON is an enterprising young 
I farmer of North Strabane township. He is 
I a son of John Donaldson (who was a son of 
James), who passed his youth on the home 
farm in Westmoreland county, Penn. , where he 
was educated. He was married to Margaret Salis- 
bury, a resident of Red Oak. Brown Co., Ohio, 
who bore him children, as follows: Josephine 
(who died at the age of fourteen), Thomas W. and 
Margaret (Mrs. William H. Jones). For his sec- 
ond wife Mr. Donaldson married Rebecca Van- 
Eman, and their children were Mary E., J. William, 
Jennie R. and Alexander B. Mr. Donaldson was 
a Whig, and an ardent partisan. He served many 
years as justice of the peace in Brown county. 
Ohio, to which State he removed from Penney 1 
vania six mouths before his first marriage, where 
he was engaged in coach building and afterward 
in farming. He was a member of the Presbyterian 
Church, in which he was an elder for years. He 
died in Brown county. Ohio, and the family then 
removed to Washington county, Penn., first locat- 
ing near Canonsburg. 

J W. Donaldson was born September 13, 1853, 
in Brown county, Ohio, and came to Pennsylvania 
with the family when but a small boy. His edu- 
cation was principally obtained by self -study, as 
he was obliged to earn his living at a very early 
age, working at any employment he could secure. 
On January 1, 1880, he was united in marriage 
with Mary B., daughter of T. H. Lyon, and their 
union has been blessed by the following children: 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1255 



Mary L., Arthur V., Bertha B., Nellie J., Aunie 
Grace and William Harvy. After his marriage, 
Mr. Donaldson purchased a portion of the Linn 
farm in North Strabaue township, where he re- 
mained several years, and then bought and moved 
upon his present home in the same township. He 
has, by enterprise and perseverance, achieved his 
own success, and is a liberal supporter of all pub- 
lic enterprises. He takes an active part in church 
work, serving in the Presbyterian Church as trus- 
tee nine years, and holding the office of ruling 
elder for the past six years. The Society of which 
he and his family are members is known as the 
"Dr. McMillan Church.'' In politic^ he is an act- 
ive and valued member of the Republican party. 



JiOHN CONRAD. Among the prominent citi- 
zens and successful agriculturists of Fallow- 
| field township, this gentleman is prominent. 
He is a son of John Conrad, who was born in 
1795, in West Pike Run township, Washing 
ton Co., Penn., and grew to manhood on the home 
farm. When a young man he selected a life com 
panion in the person of Catherine, daughter of 
Robert Ferguson, a farmer of Somerset township, 
Washington county, and to this union were born 
the following named children: William, Hannah, 
Margaret, Jane, Elmira, John, Catherine, David 
and Elizabeth. The latter two are numbered with 
the dead. The father always followed agricultural 
pursuits; he served the township in various offices 
until he died, in 1868. He was followed to the 
grave by the mother in 1869. 

John Conrad was born November 12, 1830, in 
Fallowfield township, and there received his early 
education. On attaining the age of maturity he 
took charge of the home place, consisting of 180 
acres of fertile land, lying live miles from Monon- 
gahela City. He now owns 105 acres of land ad- 
joining the village of Lock No. 4, where he 
deals in stock. Of the village of Lock No. 4 Mr. 
Conrad platted a part, a portion of the village 
being at one time part of the farm. He is the 
owner of a handsome modern dwelling and nicely 
decorated grounds. He votes with the Democrat 
party, and has served as judge of election and tilled 
other offices. In religion he is a member of the 
Presbyterian Church. Mr. Conrad is yet unmarried. 



UlLYSSES S. WHEELER, one of the most 
enterprising farmers of Jefferson township, 
) is a son of John Wheeler, whose father, 
Thomas Wheeler, came from Maryland to 
West Virginia, locating near Steubenville. 
Thomas Wheeler was married in Maryland to Miss 
Honor Donovan, who bore him eleven children, as 
follows: James, John, Thomas, William, Zacha- 



riah, Andrew, David, Benjamin, Honor, Sarah and 
Nancy. 

John Wheeler was born August 18, 1812, on the 
home place in West Virginia, and assisted in the 
duties of the farm until about twenty years of age, 
when he learned tailoring. In connection with 
his trade he carried on a general store in the town 
of Eldersville, for twelve years, and then bought 
the farm which is now in the possession of his 
son Ulysses. John Wheeler was united in mar 
riage in 1839 with Hannah Sharp, who was born 
March 9, 1817, in Washington county, Penn. The 
young couple afterward moved to Eldersville, 
where their six children were born: Amanda, born 
March 28, 1840; Ulysses S., born June 8, 1841; 
Jasper, born March 16, 1844; Lorenzo, Henrietta 
and Loretta (triplets), bom July 26, 1848. Of 
these children, the last four died in infancy, and 
Amanda (Mrs. Dr. McCullough) died May 25, 
1881. John Wheeler died February 1, 1867, and 
Mrs. Hannah Wheeler, August 30, 1877. 

Ulysses S. Wheeler (the subject of this sketch), 
the only living representative of his family, came 
to the farm in Jefferson township when about 
thirteen years old, which has since been his home. 
In August, 1862, he enlisted in Company K, One 
Hundred and Fortieth P. V. I., and served in the 
First Brigade, First Division, Second Army 
Corps, under Gen. Hancock, during the whole war. 
Ulysses Wheeler was engaged in thirty-two battles 
and skirmishes, among the more important of 
which were Cold Harbor, Spottsylvania Court 
House, Chancellorsville and Gettysburg. Mr. 
Wheeler was slightly wounded at Chancellorsville. 
In the year 1865 he received an honorable dis- 
charge, and returned home. In the following 
year he was united in marriage with Frances, 
daughter of B. M. Sharp, an undertaker of Sten 
benville. She was a student and graduate of the 
Steubenville Fetnale Seminary. Ulysses S. and 
Frances Wheeler have two children, both of whom 
are living with their parents on the farm. In poli- 
ties Mr. Wheeler is an ardent Republican, and al- 
though his township is strongly Democratic, he 
has been elected to several official positions, having 
been tax collector nine years, and was census 
taker in the year 1890. He is honored by all his 
acquaintances, and is a devoted husband and 
father. 



q 



Isaac 

Bethlehem 

educated 



G. GAYMAN. In the van of Washington 
county's prominent farmers and progressive 
men stands this gentleman. He is a native 
of the county, born March 11, 1830, in 
West Bethlehem township. His father, 
Gayman, was also born, in 1804, in West 
township, where he was reared and 
He was twice married; first to Eliza- 



1256 



Washing ton co vn ty. 



beth Greenlee, by whom he had children as fol- 
lows: Olivia, G. G. , Caroline, Samuel, Daniel 
(deceased) and Mary Ann. The mother of these 
children died at the age of twenty eight years, 
and Isaac Gayinan then married Amanda Wye 
waner, by which union there were three children: 
Isaac, Emelino and Barbara. The father departed 
this life in 1879. He was a Democrat in politics. 
In religious matters he worshiped at the Disciple 
Church. 

At the common schools of his district the sub- 
ject of this sketch received a fairly liberal educa- 
tion, and was reared to agricultural pursuits on the 
home farm. In the spring of 1S56 he moved into 
Bast Bethlehem township, where he owns a fine 
farm of 1 < >T acres, situated on one of the most 
pleasant sites in the township, and having thereon 
a commodious residence and splendid outside build 
ings. In addition to general agriculture, he de- 
votes a portion of his time to the raising of fine- 
bred sheep. In 1890 he and his son invented a 
device for curing foot-rot in sheep, said to be most 
wonderful in its success, and they have now an ex- 
tensive factory for the manufacture of same, at 
Clarksville, Greene Co., Peun., which gives em- 
ployment to several hands. They have salesmen 
and agents distributed through different parts of 
the Union; and although their invention is but a 
few years old. it has already attained a high repu- 
tation, having in every respect proved most satis 
factory to all who have tried it, as evidenced by 
the numerous testimonials received from all parts 
of the country. On December 27, 1855, Mr. 
dayman was married to Miss Elizabeth Barnard, 
and two children have been born to them: Samuel 
and Emma. Of these Samuel married Ella Buck- 
ingham, who died in 1890, leaving two children: 
Cora and Clyde (the last named being now de- 
ceased), and he then took, for his second wife, 
Jessie Matthews, by whom he has one son, Glen. 
Emma married William K. Buckingham, and they 
have two children: George and Grace. Polit 
ically Mr. Gayman is a Democrat. He is descended 
from one of the oldest and most prominent fam- 
ilies of Washington county, his grandparents hav- 
ing settled here when it was a wild, uncleared 
region. 



QEORGE W. OSBUKN, retired merchant, of 
Burgettstown, is descended of Irish au- 
i cestry, his father and grandfather having 
I been natives of the Emerald Isle. 

James Oslmrn (grandfather of subject) 
was married to a Miss McCutcheon, of his local- 
ity, and they soon afterward emigrated to America, 
landing at New York. Proceeding to Westmore- 
land county, Penn., they there made a permanent 
settlement, and reared a family of children, as 



follows: James, Jane, Robert, George, Margaret, 
Catherine, Martha and John. Mr. Osburn was a 
Democrat in politics, and in religious faith a mem- 
ber of the M. E. Church. 

James Osburn, father of George W., was reared 
and educated in Westmoreland county, Penn., and 
was first married to a Miss Johnston, who bore 
him two children, Thomas and Jane. For his 
second wife, he was united in marriage with 
Martha, daughter of Adam McKennet, a native of 
Ireland, and a member of the M. E. Church. Mr. 
McKennet settled on a farm in Kobinson township, 
this county, in the early part of the present cent 
ury, and there passed the remainder of his days. 
After his second marriage James Osburn settled on 
the McKennet farm, where he died in 1843. Polit 
ically Mr. Osburn was a Democrat, and in religion 
an adherent of the M. E. Church. Martha, wife 
of James Osburn, survived him until the year 
1885, when she died on August 5, leaving three 
sons, James J., George W. and Robert C. 

George W. Osburn, whose 'name opens this 
sketch, was born June 9, 1830, and passed his 
youth on the home farm in Kobinson township, re- 
ceiving a common school education. On October 
20, 1859, he was united in marriage with Mai)', 
daughter of James Hastings, of Allegheny county, 
Penn. She was a very estimable lady and model 
wife, whose demise occurred January 5, 1865. As 
a result of this union three children were born, of 
whom two died in infancy. The surviving child, 
Martha J., was born January 19, 1861, and was 
reared on the home farm under Presbyterian iutlu 
ences. She was educated in the common school. 
She married R. C. Cassidy, November 18, 1884. As 
a result of this marriage the birth of Ora R. Cas- 
sidy occurred on April 17, 1888. Mr. Osburn con- 
tinued to reside on the home farm until 1888, in 
which year he came to Burgettstown, where he 
formed a partnership with R. C. Cassidy in the 
grocery business, which they conducted until 1891, 
when Mr. Osburn retired. He is an active Re- 
publican, and has held various public offices. 



If S. WALTZ, a leading citizen of West 
Alexander, was born at Washington, Wash 
It J iugton Co., Penn. He is a son of Abraham, 
--^ whose father, Daniel Waltz, was united in 
marriago with Margaret Bedillion, of Fayette 
county, Penn. Daniel Waltz was a painter and 
chair maker by trade, and followed that business 
all his life. Soon after his marriage he moved to 
Washington county, where eight children were 
born and reared, and where the remainder of his 
life was passed. In politics he was a Jacksonian 
Democrat, and took an active iuterest in the wel- 
fare of his party. 

Abraham Waltz passed his early life on the 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1257 



home farm in Washington county, where he re- 
ceived a common school education and where he 
began to learn his father's trade of painter and 
chair maker, which he afterward followed. He 
was married to Margaret B., daughter of John 
Peters. Mr. Peters was born and reared in Massa- 
chusetts, and was married to Margaret Saladay, of 
Fayette county, Penn., where five children were 
born and reared. Mr. Peters and his wife passed 
the remainder of their life in Brownsville, Penn., 
and were buried there. Mr. and Mrs. Abraham 
Waltz were active members of the M. E. Church 
at Washington, he being class- leader several 
years. He affiliated with the Democratic party. 
The death of this man occurred in 1841, and he 
was buried in the cemetery at Washington. 

J. S. Waltz, the only child of Abraham and 
Margaret (Peters) Waltz, was reared and educated 
at Washington, Penn. He has been an extensive 
reader and instructor in vocal music. At the age 
of eighteen years he began to learn the cigar trade, 
remaining four years with Thomas McKeau, of 
Washington. He then began business for himself 
in the " Black Factory," where he continued two 
years. In the year 1868, Mr. Waltz came to West 
Alexander, Perm., and there conducted a dry- 
goods and grocery store for three years, when he 
opened a cigar factory, which he now carries on 
in connection with the insurance brokerage busi- 
ness. He was married to Nannie J., daughter of 
Isaac Post, of Donegal township, September 24, 
1862. There were three children born to this 
union: Linnette M. (a music teacher, died March 
24, 1890), Harry P. (a bookkeeper and musician 
in Wheeling, W. Va. ), and Isaac N. (a book- 
keeper), graduated from the business college at 
Wheeling, W. Va. ; he is also a musician. The 
mother died June 24, 1890. Mr. Waltz was for- 
merly a Democrat, but is now a Republican. He 
has been administrator and executor of several 
estates. When the borough of West Alexander 
was organized he was elected the first justice of 
the peace, and on the expiration of his term was 
re-elected, serving in all ten years. He has also 
served as burgess, has been a member of council, 
and a school director, and was again elected justice 
of thepeace, his commission dating from May, 1892, 
to serve five years. During his long service as 
justice of the peace he joined in marriage several 
hundred couples, representing every State in the 
Union, who look upon West Alexander as a west- 
ern "Gretna Green." In church connection he 
was formerly a Baptist, but afterward united with 
the U. P. Church at West Alexander, Penn., in 
which he has for years been leader of the choir. 
During the building of the church he served both 
as trustee and treasurer, and has ever taken an 
active part in the support of that Society. 

The Waltz family are descendants of Frederick 



Reinhart Waltz, whose posterity now numbers 
several thousands, and they are residents of almost 
every State in the Union. The American pioneers 
of the family emigrated from Switzerland to 
America in the year 1731. 




NDREW RUSSELL (deceased). The family 
of which this gentleman was a representa- 
tive is descended from prominent early 
pioneers of Washington county, Penn., and 
the blood of Scottish patriots flows in their 
veins. Andrew Russell and his wife (the grand 
parents) were born in Scotland and emigrated to 
this country many years ago, first locating near 
Oxford, Chester Co., Penn. In 1782 he purchased 
and moved upon a part of the Crawford-Neville 
Military Patent, in Chartiers township, Washing- 
ton Co., Penn., also purchasing another farm on 
the north branch of Chartiers creek. A log cabin 
was erected, which in due time was supplanted by 
a more commodious residence, their original home 
being afterward used for a blacksmith shop. Seven 
daughters and three sons were born to this couple. 
Andrew, son of Andrew Russell, was born in 
1777, in Chartiers township, Washington Co., 
Penn., and in early life was married to Anna Mc- 
Clelland, who bore him eleven children, viz. : James 
(married to Miss McElroy, living in Unionport, 
Ohio), Andrew, Alexander, Robert, John, William, 
Jane. Isabella, Ann, Eliza and Nancy, of whom 
William and Ann are living. The father died in 
1862. 

Andrew Russell was born December 31, 1814, 
on the farm now owned by his brother John, where 
his boyhood days were passed. On April 18, 1839, 
Andrew Russell was united in marriage with Jane, 
daughter of Andrew and Sarah (Steele) Miller, 
who came from Ireland in 1810. Andrew and 
Jane Russell reared a family of ten children, of 
whom the following is a brief record: Sarah Jane 
was married to Sampson Smith, and they reside 
in Allegheny City, Penn. ; of their six children, 
Jennie L., Anna R. and Clara S. are living. An- 
drew J. was first married to Margaret McBurney, 
who bore him one son, Andrew Lyle (now attend- 
ing the Philadelphia Medical College); the mother 
died in October, 1884, and for his second wife Mr. 
Russell married, August 4, 1886, Alice M. Smith 
(he is station agent and merchant at Bulger, Penn., 
and is an elder of the U. P. Church). James H. 
Russell died when twenty-one years of age. Thomas 
A. died in infancy. Letitia A. gave her hand in 
marriage to Ezra McBurney, and was the mother 
of five children, three of whom are living, namely: 
Jennie D., Mary L. and Mattie L. Isabella M. 
Russell was the wife of Matthew Brown, and bore 
him eight children, namely: David Andrew, John 
Edmund, Anna Doret, William Ralph, Joseph 






1258 



WASHING TON COUN TV. 



McElroy, Walter Earl, Robert Russell and Jennie 
Miller. William M. married Annie J. Agnew, to 
whom one son, Johnson Miller, was born. Rob- 
bert A. was married to Nettie Berrybill, who bore 
him one daughter, Jennie Gertrude. Dorett M. 
married. Homer J. Willison, January 4, 1883; to 
them were born two sons, Howard Linford and 
Knowlie Clark, the latter died of pneumonia Jan 
uary 7, 1892. Mr. and Mrs. Russell began their 
married life in a room sixteen feet square, but by 
patient industry soon accumulated a good prop 
erty, and owned some very fine stock. He was 
school director and supervisor, being always inter- 
ested in all movements tending toward progression, 
and in religious faith was an earnest member of 
the United Presbyterian Church. He died April 
25j 1891, leaving many warm friends to mourn his 
loss, who gave to the bereaved family their heart 
felt sympathy. 



JiOSEPH SHAW is one of the most prosperous 
agriculturists of Chartiers township, giving 
| especial attention to the raising of tine stock, 
and is a representative of one of the oldest 
pioneer families of Washington county. He is 
I ho second son of John Shaw, and a grandson of 
Joseph Shaw, the latter of whom was born in the 
Ninth of Ireland, and married a Miss Sankey, 
finally settling in Chartiers township, Washington 
county. 

John Shaw (a son of the above-named couple) 
was born in 1804, on the pioneer farm in Chartiers 
township, this county. In 1832 he was married 
to Sarah Harsha, a native of the same county, and 
they settled on the home farm, where the following 
children were born to them: Esther Ann and Jane 
(both deceased in infancy), William D. (who en- 
listed in Company A, Eighty-fifth Regiment, P. 
V. I., serving three years, two months and ten 
days; married Sarah Bancroff, have two sons and 
one daughter, and is now living in Adams county. 
Iowa), Joseph, John H. (deceased at the age of 
fourteen years), an infant and James (twins, the 
latter of whom was a veteran of Company B, First 
Virginia Cavalry; married Mary Boyce, who died, 
leaving four sons and three daughters; he then 
married Rella St. Clare, by which union there is 
one son now living in Guernsey county, Ohio), 
Sarah Jane (who married J. L. Henderson, and 
died leaving four sons and one daughter), Har 
rison Marshall (who died of typhoid fever, at the 
age of seven years), Thomas (residing on the old 
pioneer farm, married Hannah Grounds, who died 
leaving one son, and he then married Jennie \\ . 
Agnew, by whom he has one son and two daugh- 
ters), Rebecca Agnes (deceased in youth), Robert 
Theodore (a graduate of Washington and Jeffer- 
son College, now a physician and surgeon at Silver 



Plume, Colo., and who has served twice as a mem- 
ber of the Legislature from his county) and Har 
riet (married about the year 1878 to David Bedow, 
to whom she bore a son; she died in March, 1880). 
The mother of this family died of apoplexy in 
1809. She was a daughter of John Harsha, whose 
parents were early pioneers of Washington county, 
of Scotch-Irish ancestry. John Harsha was a 
hunter in Kentucky in the days of Daniel Boone, 
but in his younger life he had learned the trade of 
chair maker in his native State. He married Es 
ther Ann McMillan, a native of Chartiers town 
ship, also a member of an early pioneer family. 
They died in this county. John Shaw was a Dem- 
ocrat until 1840, when he became a Whig, and 
upon the organization of the Republican party, he 
joined its ranks; he was an enthusiastic worker 
with them, and one of the most patriotic of nun. 
universally respected. In church relationship he 
was a member of and elder in the United Presby- 
terian Church of Cross Roads, in Chartiers town- 
ship. He died in February, 1879. 

Joseph Shaw (whose name opens this biography) 
was born August 10, 1837, on the home farm in 
Chartiers township, this county, and was educated 
in District No. 2, that township. On September 
13, 1861, he enlisted in Company A, Eighty-fifth 
Regiment P. V. I., for a term of three years, or 
during the war, and was assigned to the army of 
the Potomac under Gen. MacClellan. The army 
of the Potomac then lay encamped from Fortress 
Monroe to Newport News, and commenced move- 
ment on May 4, 1862. The enemy evacuated his 
position at Yorktown the night before, and upon 
discovering this the Union army began a hot pur- 
suit, overtaking them at Williamsburg, where a 
terrible tight ensued, lasting till night, when the 
Confederates retreated. The regiment then fol- 
lowed, taking part in a few skirmishes, and finally 
halted at Fair Oaks. From here, after a fierce 
battle, they were forced to retreat to Harrison's 
Landing, the retreat including what is termed the 
Seven Days Fight. The army soon afterward 
evacuated Harrison's Landing, proceeding to For- 
tress Monroe and Hampton Roads. At this junct- 
ure, Companies A and F were detailed to guard 
the hospital at Point Lookout for three months. 
Companies A and F received orders to join the 
regiment at Suffolk, Va., and while there had a 
skirmish with the enemy at Blackwater. In the 
latter part of January, 1863, they were sent to St. 
Helen's Island, on a fleet comprising about fifty 
wooden and iron-clad vessels. They landed Feb- 
ruary 8, 1863, and saw the engagement which took 
place at Charleston Harbor, many vessels being 
engaged, also the bombardment or Ft. Sumter by 
Dupont. The Union troops were then in posses- 
sion of Folly Island. A battery was there ambushed 
which enabled them to take Morris Island, and then 




tf a *„jL8..jF$* n & 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1261 



followed the siege with Forts Wagner and Gregg, 
which were protecting Charleston. Joseph Shaw 
assisted in building the "Swamp Angel," after the 
siege. The regiment was then transferred to Hil- 
ton Head, where it remained until April 23, 1804. 
An expedition was then sent to Bermuda Hundred, 
being the first regiment to land under Gen. Ben. 
Butler, and afterward took part in the bloody bat- 
tles near Petersburg. Leaving there they went 
to Turkey Bend, thence to the Gap, where a heavy 
tight ensued on Chapman's Farm, at Deep Bottom. 
In this engagement the Eighty fifth Regiment 
captured two stands of colors, but nearly half of 
those heroic men fell martyrs to the Union cause 
that fearful day, and Mr. Shaw received a flesh 
wound. From there they went to Norfolk on duty, 
and on November 22, 1864, Joseph Shaw received 
an honorable discharge at Pittsburgh, Penn., and 
he immediately returned to Washington county. 
On December 5, 1865, the wedding bells pro 
claimed the union of Joseph Shaw and Helen Jane 
McBurney, a native of Canton township, this 
county, reared and educated in Washington. She 
is a daughter of Ebenezer and Mary (Maxwell) 
McBurney, natives of South Strabane township, 
descended from Scotch ancestors, members of the 
TJ. P. Church. The mother died in ISSN, and in 
1889 the father passed away, while residing at 
Antelope Gap (his ranch near Goldthwaite, Mills 
Co., Texas). 

Mr. and Mrs. Shaw passed the first years of 
their married life on the place known as the Sam- 
uel Morgan farm, which he sold, and in 1881 he 
purchased the farm of over 127 acres which he now 
owns in Chartiers township. Five children have 
been born to them, viz. : Dr. John H. (a dentist 
of Pittsburgh, Penn. ), Harry McBurney (a farmer), 
Mary, Florence and Margaret E. ; the daughters 
all attend the Washington Female Seminary. Mr. 
Shaw has given special attention to raising English 
Shropshire sheep. He and his wife and family are 
members of the United Presbyterian Church at 
Houstonville, and they are now living in that vil- 
lage. Politically Mr. Shaw votes with the Repub- 
lican party. 



f/OSEPH McDOWELL is a representative of 
one of the early families of Mt. Pleasant 
r_^ J township. The McDowells are of Scotch- 
^^ Irish descent, the first settlement having been 
made in colonial days by Thomas McDowell, in 
Little Britain township, Lancaster Co., Penn. 

The great-grandfather, Thomas McDowell, was 
born there, and in 1773 came to Washington 
county, first settling near the mouth of the north 
branch of Chartiers creek, in Chartiers township, 
taking out a patent for 400 acres of laud. In 1787 
he purchased a patent of 899J acres in Mt. Pleas- 



ant township, from John Neiper, the assignee of 
Robert Dowuing, which was patented in John 
Neiper's name January 3, 1788, described as lying 
near the headwaters of Chartiers creek, and named 
Long Meadow. In a will made by Thomas Mc- 
Dowell and his wife Jennet, the following named 
daughters are mentioned: Hester Miller, Rachel 
Stiil, Dina McKnight, Jane Clarke, Rebecca, 
Martha, Abigail, and sons: William, John, James 
and Joseph, and the grandson: Benoni Stulbs. 
Thomas McDowell died in the year 1797, and was 
interred in the Buffalo Presbyterian church bury- 
ing ground in Hopewell township. 

James McDowell, sou of Thomas and Jennet, 
was born in Lancaster county. Penn., and moved 
with his father's family to Washington county, 
where he married Mary McKnight, a native of 
Chartiers township. They settled on the farm in 
Mt. Pleasant township, James having in the year 
L796 bought of his father 160 acres of the orig- 
inal John Neiper patent, paying in consideration 
therefor the sum of tl(tl) current money of Penn 
sylvauia. The following children were born to 
them: Eleanor Nesbit, Rebecca Smith, Jane Mc 
Elroy, and James and John. James McDowell, 
the grandfather, died June 21, 1S27, his wife sur- 
viving him a number of years. Both lie in the 
Cross Roads U. P. Church burying ground. 

James McDowell, the father, was born on the 
farm of his father, James, on June 21, 1S(I4, and in 
the year 1828 married Katharine Miller, of Char- 
tiers township, who was born also in 1804, and 
was a sister to Col. R. W. Miller. They set- 
tled on part of the farm, it having been willed to 
him and his brother John to be divided between 
them. He followed farming, stock raising and 
hunting as an occupation, and was considered in 
his day a great marksman and hunter. When 
about fifteen years of age he, with a flint-lock 
rifle, went hunting, taking along with him a young 
fox-hound. Before he was off their own farm, he 
came up to a black bear. The young hound would 
not leave him, but with his tail down and bristle's 
up, kept a sniffing. He finally discoved the bear 
standing up on its haunches and on firing, the 
powder flashed in the pau, causing the gun to 
hang fire. In the meantime the bear had got 
down on all fours and ran about a rod before the 
gun discharged the ball. This bear was the last 
one seen in these parts and was a few days after 
ward killed near what is now the village of Hick 
ory, in Mt. Pleasant township. When dressed the 
bear weighed 300 pounds. James McDowell's po 
litical views were Democratic, his first vote being cast 
for Andrew Jackson for President. He voted for 
all the Democratic nominees down to his last vote, 
which was cast for Grover Cleveland in 1884. Al 
though not a member of any church, he was never 
known to speak disrespectfully of the Christian 



1262 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



religion, and all that is known of his religious be 
lief is what he said to the minister on his death- 
bed which was: "when Christ died He sent the 
Holy Ghost as a Comforter." Catharine McDowell, 
the mother, was a member of Mt. Prospect Pres- 
byterian Church by certificate, having joined the 
First Presbyterian Church of Washington before 
marriage. She was a kind mother and a conscien- 
tious Christian. The following children were born 
to them: Mary, Jane, James (died in youth), 
Rachel, Jacob, John (died in youth), Samuel (now 
living in Miami county, Kans.), Robert (died in 
Miami county, Kans., March 30, 1889), Joseph 
and Katharine. The mother died February 10, 
1881, and the father July 10, 1886. Both are 
buried in Mt. Prospect cemetery. 

Jacob McDowell, son of James and Catharine, 
volunteered in the year 1861 and served as a cav- 
alryman in the First Pennsylvania Reserve Cavalry, 
Company K, until honorably discharged in 1864, 
having served for three years. Ho died in 1875, 
from the effects of a wound on the left cheek bone 
received while in the army. 



Fit J. GREGG. Among the early settlers of 

/ l\ Washington county, whose deeds are an un- 

//^\\ dying monument to their memory, were the 

J -* ancestors of the well known family, repre- 

i sented here by the gentleman whose name 

here appears. 

In the year 1790 three brothers — Henry, Will- 
iam and John Gregg— left Ireland, the country of 
their birth, and crossed the ocean to America. 
After a voyage of sixteen weeks they all came to 
Washington county, Penn., and settled in East 
Pike Run township, where Henry secured a tract 
of 349 acres called the "Burning Mine," and now 
owned by a Mr. Duvall. Henry Gregg served as 
justice of the peace in 1796. He was married to 
Jane Dowler, and of their children whose names 
are given are John, Henry, Thomas, Edward, Seth 
and William. The parents died in 1834 in West 
Pike Run township. The second brother of the 
three who emigrated from Ireland was William 
Gregg, and he was married in the old country to 
a lady who bore him the following children: 
Henry, John, William, Andrew, Robert, Christina 
(wife of John Crow) and a Mrs. Jackinan. 

Robert Gregg, son of William, was born in Ire- 
land, and was about twelve years of age when 
the parents and uncles came to America in 1790. 
He attended the subscription schools of Washing- 
ton county, Penn.. and in early manhood was 
married to Ann, daughter of John Robison, a 
Dative of Ireland, where he was married. Coming 
to America in an early day, he opened the first 
tavern mi the old Washington n>ad in Pennsyl- 



vania. His children were Joseph, John, William, 
Susan, Sarah and Ann (Mrs. Gregg). 

Robert and Ann Gregg resided on the home 
place until his health failed, when they moved to 
Greenfield (now Coal Centre), where he died. He 
was a pilot on the Monongahela, Ohio and 
Mississippi rivers. In politics he was actively 
identified with the Democratic party, and served 
for years as supervisor, as well as in other town- 
ship offices. The children of this family were 
born as follows: John R., William, Mary, Jane 
(wife of Daniel Williams), Andrew J., Ann (mar- 
ried to Thomas Huggins) and Matilda. Of these 
Andrew J. and Ann are yet living. Robert Gregg 
helped to build the first steamboat launched on the 
Monongahela river. His son, John R., started the 
first general store in Greenfield in 1835, which he 
kept for fifty years. He, in partnership with 
Hiram Smith, loaded the first coal boat there, and 
ran it by hand to Cincinnati. Boats in those days 
were loaded three feet deep, and were sixty five 
feet long, and he lived to see his son W. H. Gregg 
load boats six and seven feet deep and 165 feet 
long, and towed by steamboats. 

Andrew J. Gregg was born in November, 1817, 
in East Pike Run township, Washington Co., 
Penn., and attended the pioneer schools of the 
period. On July 6, 1852, he entered matrimonial 
life in company with Mary A., daughter of James 
Ailes, who was a son of Amos Ailes, whose father 
was Stephen Ailes, a native of Chester county, 
Penn. Amos Ailes was born in 1751, and grew to 
manhood in his native county. In early life Amos 
Ailes was married to Ann, daughter of Joseph 
Brown, a farmer of Chester county, Penn., and 
soon after their marriage they came to Washington 
county, locating on a tract of land in East Pike 
Run township, which had then been in the pos 
session of Joseph Brown for about two years. At 
the time Amos Ailes settled upon it, the place was 
an unbroken wilderness, inhabited only by wild 
animals and wandering Indians. Two young girls 
named Scott were killed by the Redskins about 
this time, and Mrs. Ailes shot a deer in the door- 
yard soon after their arrival. In this wild forest 
home children were born to these pioneers, and 
reared, as follows: Joseph, Stephen, Aaron, Mary 
(wife of Eli Gause), James, Sarah (wife of John 
Waites), Isaac and Amos. Mr. Ailes was a Whig 
in politics, and in religion a member of the 
Society of Friends. He died in February, 1S35, 
and was buried by the side of his wife in the West- 
land cemetery, in East Bethlehem township, Wash- 
ington county. Mr. and Mrs. Gregg resided on 
the home place for three years after their mar- 
riage, then purchased and moved upon an adjoin- 
ing farm. They finally settled on the Ailes home- 
stead, and in 1889 erected their present residence. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1263 



In addition to general farming, Mr. Gregg has 
conducted a gristmill for the past few years. In 
polities he is a stanch Democrat, and has held 
various local offices. He is a member and ardent 
supporter of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. 



D' 



V ANIEL SHELLER, a well-known citizen of 
Claysville, was born February 1, 1816, in 
Donegal township. He is a son of Samuel 
Sheller, also a native of that township, 
whose father, William, was born in Germany, from 
which counbry so many of t lie best and most intel- 
lectual citizens of America are descended. 

William Sheller, grandfather of our subject, 
passed his youth in his native land, and there mar- 
ried a German lady, who bore him children as fol- 
lows: William, Henry, John, Samuel, Mary (Mrs. 
Jacob Ruple), Catherine (Mrs. Benjamin Stephen 
son), Mrs. Beckley and Mrs. McKee. This family 
emigrated from Germany, and settling in Wash- 
ington county, were among the earliest pioneers of 
Donegal township. Indians were still .numerous, 
and when the settlers attended church, which they 
did usually in a body, the men of their number 
carried their guns with them. In politics Mr. 
Sheller was a Federalist; in religious faith he was 
one of the founders of the United Brethren Church, 
with which he was connected. 

Samuel Sheller, father of Daniel, always lived in 
Donegal township, and was educated in the German 
language. He was united in marriage with Eliza 
beth, daughter of Christopher Winter (of whom 
special mention will presently be made), and their 
children were: Daniel, Elizabeth, Christopher 
(living in West Alexander), Catherine (Mrs. John 
J. Clemmens), Mary, Susanna (Mrs. Alexander 
Noble) and Lucinda (Mrs. Alexander Blair). After 
his marriage, Mr. Sheller settled on the farm 
where the remainder of his life was passed. He 
was a member of the United Brethren Church, and 
in politics he was an active worker in the Old-line 
Whig party. He died January 1, 1838, his widow 
surviving him until 1860, when she, too, passed 
away. 

Daniel Sheller, the subject of these lines, re- 
mained on his father's farm in Donegal township 
during his early years, and was educated chiefly in 
the German language, attending the English 
school but three months. On May 20, 1847, he 
married Rachel, daughter of Joshua Stoolfill, and 
their family consists of two sons and two 
daughters, viz. : Samuel M. , Margaretta (Mrs. 
Samuel Blayney), Joshua S. and Ida F., all now 
deceased. After his marriage Mr. Sheller settled 
in Buffalo township, this county, where he re- 
mained until 1878; then came to his present home 
in Claysville, where he is living a retired life. His 
original farm comprised ninety acres, but he has 



added to it until he now owns '228 acres of excel 
lent laud. Politically he was formerly a Whig, and 
is now a member of the Prohibition party. In 
church relations he is connected with the United 
Brethren Church at Zion Chapel. 

Christopher Winter, our subject's maternal 
grandfather, was a native of Ruinepfalz, Germany, 
whence, when a young man, he came to America, 
and to Washington county, where he purchased a 
tract of land in Donegal township, before the be- 
ginning of the present century. He married Kath- 
arine Schaffer, a lady of German descent, born in 
Washington county. They remained in Donegal 
township until their deaths, and they now lie at 
rest in the cemetery at Zion Chapel. They were 
among the early pioneers of the township. The 
country at the time of their settlement, there was a 
wilderness, inhabited by wild animals and Indians; 
and when on the Sabbath the pioneers walked 
through the forest to the little log building, used 
both as a schoolhouse and church, they would 
carry their trusty rifles with tliem for protection. 

Samuel M. Sheller, son of Daniel and Rachel 
Sheller, was born in Buffalo township, educated in 
the State Normal School at California and taught 
school for several years For some time he was 
engaged in mercantile business at Claysville. In 
March, 1879, he married Jennie D., daughter of 
Thomas McLeary, Esq. To this marriage were born 
Elmer E., A. Garfield, Ida F., Margaretta A. and 
Mary K. He then followed agriculture on the 
home farm, and became one of the most successful 
breeders of fine stock. Mr. Sheller was a member 
of the United Brethren Church, and in politics 
was a strong Prohibitionist. His death took place 
March 22, 1892, and he was laid to rest in the 
Claysville cemetery. 



h 



( LEXANDER C. CHAPMAN, retired farmer 
l\ and now a leading citizen of Claysville, is a 
l\ native of the county, having been born 
^ March 5, 1823, in Donegal township, of 
stalwart Scotch-Irish descent. 
His grandfather, Richard Chapman, a native of 
Ireland, was there married to Sarah Patterson, and 
had a numerous family, the names of the four sons 
being: Richard, Alexander, Andrew L. and Robert, 
and of the two daughters: Jane and Mary. The 
family emigrated to the United States in about the 
year 1781, landing in New York, whence, the same 
year, they moved to Washington county, Penn., 
where grandfather Chapman kept a hotel near 
Washington some years, then purchased a farm 
and resided in the county until their deaths. 

Andrew L. Chapman, a son of the above pioneer, 
came with his parents from Ireland to this country, 
where he received his education. While quite a 
young man he was married to Nancy, daughter of 



1264 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Elder Thomas Campbell, of whom farther mention 
will be presently made, and the children born of 
this union were: Jane (wife of Daniel Mooney), 
Sarah (deceased wife of Jacob Mooney), Selina 
(deceased), Nancy (deceased wife of Rev. Walter 
Russell), Phoabe (deceased wife of David Oden- 
baugh), and Alicia (deceased wife of Thomas Mc- 
Fadden), Alexander C. (subject), Dr. Andrew L., 
Thomas (deceased), Cornelius (deceased), and Dr. 
Campbell (deceased). Mr. Chapman was an active 
member of the Whig party, a warm friend of edu- 
cation and a public-spirited, progressive citizen. 
He was one of the early teachers of the schools in 
his township. A prominent member of the Chris- 
tian Church at Dutch Fork, he was one of its most 
liberal supporters, and was for many years an elder 
in same. As a successful farmer he had no superior 
in his section, and in addition to general agricult- 
ure he was for a long time engaged in sheep rais- 
ing. He died in this county in 1845. 

Elder Thomas Campbell, grandfather of sub 
ject (a descendant of Archibald Campbell, Duke 
of Argyll, Scotland), was born February 1, 1763, 
in County Down, Ireland, where in June, 1787, he 
was married to Jane Corneigle, a descendant of 
the French Huguenots. In an early day (1807) 
he came to this country, making his home near 
Washington, Penn., finally removing to Bethany, 
W. Va. , where he died at the advanced age of 
ninety-one years. The following is a brief record 
of his children that grew to maturity: His eldest 
son, Alexander, while in Ireland became a student 
of theology, concluding his education at Glasgow, 
Scotland. He aud his father were eminent minis- 
ters of the Seceder Church. In 1809 he joined 
his father in this country. In the meantime they 
both became dissatisfied with the divided state of 
Christendom, and proposed a remedy by inviting 
all Christians to unite with them ''on the Bible and 
the Bible alone." And thus Thomas and Alex 
ander Campbell inaugurated the •'Reformation of 
the Nineteenth Century," forming churcheson this 
basis, known as "Churches of Christ," or "Dis- 
ciples," which have attained high standing among 
the religionists of the world, and to-day numbers 
1,000,000 members in the United States. Alex- 
ander also founded Bethany College, Bethany, W. 
Va., of which he was president until his death in 
1866. The second son, Thomas, was a leading 
physician in this county. Archibald was also a 
prominent physician, as well as an able preacher. 
Dorothy became the wife of Joseph Bryant. 
Nancy (mother of subject) became the wife <>f 
Andrew L. Chapman. Alicia became the wife of 
Mathew Clapp, and Jane, the wife of Mathew Me- 
Keever. 

Alexander C. Chapman received his education 
at the subscription schools of his native township, 
and was reared to agricultural pursuits. On April 



13, 1847, he was married to Julia A., daughter 
of Richard Chapman, of Washington county, 
Penn., and the children born to them were: Agnes 
(deceased wife of Dr. Mont. Linville), Dorothy 
(deceased wife of Dr. James Bemis), Kate (de- 
ceased), Selina (deceased), and Lizzie B., Grafton 
K. and Campbell A., who are now living. The 
mother of these children dying in 1874, Mr. 
Chapman married, for his second wife, Mrs. M. 
Hodgens, widow of John Hodgens, of this county, 
she dying in the spring of 1889. In politics Mr. 
Chapman was a Whig until that party ceased to 
exist, after which he became a Democrat, and of 
late years he has voted the Prohibition ticket. In 
1875 he was elected to the office of justice of the 
peace, which he tilled with credit. He remain) d 
on the farm until 1889, when he retired from act- 
ive life, and located at Claysville. He still owns 
280 acres of tine land in Donegal township. While 
engaged on the farm he was recognized as one of 
the leading citizens of that section; was for years 
engaged in buying wool, and took particular pride 
in tine stock, and the production of tine wool; he is 
regarded as competent authority on sheep and wool. 
Mr. Chapman has been for years a consistent mem- 
ber i if the Christian Church at Dutch Fork, and is 
looked upon as a brainy, well balanced man, and an 
able debater. 




H. CRAWFORD, a prominent and pros- 
perous farmer of East Bethlehem town- 
ship, is a grandson of Elijah Crawford, a 
native of Fayette county, Penn., who in 
his lifetime was a Democrat of no small 
repute. For a long term of years he held the 
office of justice of the peace, and in his religious 
faith he was a member of the Society of Friends. 
He married Christina Oase, of Philadelphia, who 
bore him children as follows: Lee, Levi, Josiah, 
Jacob, James Sidwell, Cassie and Elizabeth, who 
married Johnson Craft, and is now a resident of one 
of the Western States. 

James Sidwell Crawford, father of subject, was 
born July 25, 1809, in Fayette county, Penn., 
where he received a fairly liberal education and 
was reared to agricultural pursuits, which became 
his life work in connection with distilling. On 
April 14, 1836, he married Sarah Hawkins, daugh- 
ter of Richard and Cynthia Hawkins, of Washing- 
ton county, and the young couple then settled on 
the farm now occupied by their son, R. H. He 
was successful as a farmer and stock raiser, and 
made many substantial improvements on his prop- 
erty, among which may be mentioned the hand- 
some and comfortable residence erected in 1845, a 
tine commodious barn and various outbuildings. 
At the time of his death he had by energy, per- 
severance and judicious economy accumulated a 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1267 



handsome competence, his farm comprising no less 
than 322 acres of superior laud. In his political 
preferences he was a solid Democrat, but not an 
active one, his farm interests occupying his entire 
time and attention. He departed this life April 3, 
1869, his widow in 1883, in her seventy-second 
year. Their children were R. H., Mary Emma, 
Sarah Melissa, James Josiah and Edwin Elijah. 
The last mentioned participated in the Civil war, 
serving under Col. William J. Palmer in Company 
K, Fifteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, and died in 
Nashville, Tenu., February 12, 1863, aged twenty- 
two years four months nineteen days. James 
Josiah died July 29. 1862, aged thirteen years 
ten months fourteen days; Sarah Melissa married 
Robert Hawkins, and now resides at Newton Falls, 
Trumbull Co., Ohio; Mary Emma is the wife of 
Elmer R. Deems, of Washington, Penn. 

R. H. Crawford was born October 2N, 1 N37, on 
the farm he now owns in East Bethlehem town 
ship, and in his boyhood attended the common 
schools of his district. He was reared to farm 
work under the able instruction of his father, and 
became, like him, one of the most successful agri- 
culturists of the county. On January 3, 1884, he 
married Miss Anna E.. daughter of Casper and 
Sarah Ann (Griffith) Wyland, of Washington, 
Penn. Mr. Crawford is a Democrat to the back- 
bone, but in minor elections votes for the best 
man, regardless of party interests; he and his 
wife are members of the Lutheran Church. His 
farm covers 150 acres of prime land situated near 
the center of East Bethlehem township, where he 
carries on general farming, including stock raising 
— buying and selling — and has continually on the 
place a flock of about 150 sheep. 



AMUEL WALKER. The earliest record ex 
tant of the Walker family, to which the sub- 
ject of this memoir claims relationship, is 
of one David Walker, a native of New 
Jersey, who married Elizabeth Elliott, of the same 
State. About the year 1772, the young couple 
settled near a little town called Burnt Cabins, 
Huntingdon Co., Penn. Ten children were born 
to them, viz.: Alexander, John, David, James, 
Martha, Sarah, Mrs. Cree, Susan, Polly and Isa- 
belle, all now deceased. 

Alexander Walker, eldest son of David, was 
born May 10, 1773, in Huntingdon county, and 
passed his boyhood on the borne farm. In 1795 
he came to Washington county, and located in 
Jefferson township, on the farm now owned and 
occupied by his son. Here he met Miss Elizabeth 
Norris, who was born December 19, 1778, in this 
county, and October 26, 1800, they were married. 
They settled on the home farm mentioned, and Mr. 
Walker also managed a still-house, which was, at 



that time, as important an industry as a mill of 
the present day. The names and dates of birth 
of the children born to them are as follows: 
Elizabeth, February 22, 1802; John, June 8, 1803; 
David, September 19, 1804; James, January 1. 
1807; John N. , June 24, 1808; Susanna, December 
22, 1809; Alexander, June 21, 1811; Mary Ann," 
February 7, 1814; David S., July 6, 1816; Isabel le. 
November 17, 1818; Drusilla, February 16, 1821; 
and Samuel, April 18, 1823. The father died 
September 8, 1854, the mother on December 17, 
1855. They were Presbyterians. Mr. Walker 
was a Democrat. 

Samuel Walker was born in the house where he 
is now living, and was reared to agricultural pur- 
suits, attending the common schools of the neigh 
borhood. On September 2, 1844, he was married 
to Miss Elizabeth H. Jerome, born June 10, 1825, 
in Ohio county, W. Va., daughter of John Jerome, 
a pioneer of that neighborhood. After marriage 
they settled on the home place, and cared for his 
aged father. After his death, the son became the 
legal owner of the 200 acres of productive land 
which is his present home. The names and dates 
of birth of the children born to Samuel and Eliza- 
beth H. (Jerome) Walker are as follows: Thomas 
P., July 22, 1845; Ophelia A., September 21, 1848; 
W. Scott, August 8, 1852; James J., September 6, 
1855; Harriet Bell, April 9, 1858; and Alexander, 
February 16,1862. In politics Mr. Walker was 
first a Whig, and afterward a Republican. He at- 
tends the Cross Creek Presbyterian Church, to 
which he gives a liberal support. 




ILLIAM S. GREGG. Among the early 
settlers of Washington county, Penn., 
whose deeds are an undying monument 
to their memory, were the ancestors of 
the well-known family, of which the sub- 
ject of this memoir is a worthy representative. 

In 1790 three brothers— Henry, William and 
John Gregg— left Ireland, the country of their 
birth, for the shores of Columbia. After a voyage 
of sixteen weeks, they all came to Washington 
county, Penn., and settled in East Pike Run town- 
ship. Of these brothers William was the great- 
grandfather of our subject, and his son Henry se- 
cured a tract of 349 acres called "the Burning 
Mine," in East Pike Run township, now owned by 
a Mr. Duvall. This Henry Gregg served as a justice 
of the peace in 1796. He was married to Jane Dow- 
ler, and they had'ehildren as follows: John, Henry, 
Thomas and Edward. The parents of this family 
died in 1834, in West Pike Run township. John 
Gregg, the youngest of the three who came to 
America in 1790, was twice married, his second 
choice having been Miss Nancy Gregg, a native of 
Ireland, to whom he was married in 1794. Their 



1208 



WASHINGTON COI'.XTY 



children were James, born August 8, 1795; Eleanor, 
horn May 22. 1797; Andrew, horn April 8, 1799; 
Mary', born September 8, 1801; Henry, horn April 
28, 1804: Sarah, bora September 8, 1806; Ann, 
horn November 9. ISDN; John, horn January 23, 
1811; Margaret, born February 8, 1813; andEliz- 
abeth, horn February 11, 1815. The father died 
July 20. IS 11, follower] by the mother April 14, 
1811. She was a member of the M. E. Church. 
The three brothers who first settled in America 
were ;ill members of the M E. Church, and in 
politics affiliated with the Whig party. 

William Gregg, another son of the pioneer Will 
iam, married Ruth . who bore him the fol- 
lowing children: Henry, John, William, Andrew. 
Robert, Christina (wife of John Crow), and an- 
other daughter (who became the wife of a Ml". 
Jackman). 

Robert Gregt;. son of William and Ruth Gregg, 
was horn in 1808. in East Pike Run township, 
Washington Co., Penn. He lived on the home 
farm during early life, and February 8, 1821, was 
married to Mary West, who was born in 1812, 
in this county. They were the parents of six 
children, namely: William S., West J., Robert 
J. (living in Coal Centre, this county), Matilda, 
Francis and Ruth A. The father was a practical, 
energetic fanner. In politics he affiliated with 
the Democratic party, and held various township 
offices. He died in 1874, and in 1890 the wife 
and mother was laid beside him. They were mem 
bers of the Presbyterian Church at Coal Centre. 

William S. Gregg was horn July 4. 1847, in 
East Pike Run township. Washington Co.. Penn., 
where his boyhood was passed. In 1872 he mar 
ried Sarah J. Lutes, who was born in 1852, in 
Washington county, a daughter of Joseph and 
Mary A. Lutes, representative of an old family. 
Four daughters were born to this union, namely: 
Nora, Estella J., Laura (deceased) and Mary A. 
(deceased). The mother, who was a member of 
the Preshyterian Church at Coal Centre, died in 
1886, and in 181)1 Mr Gregg married Mrs. Mary 
E. (Wright) Newman, daughter of Isaac Wright. 
Her father was horn in 1813, in Washington county. 
Penn.. and was married to Mary J. Long, a native 
of this county, horn in 1818. The following chil- 
dren were born to Mr. and Mrs. Wright: Eliza (de- 
ceased); William H , a resident of Fayette county. 
Penn.; Luke, living in East Pike Run township: 
Samuel; Lizzie, wife of Samuel Worrell, a farmer 
of East Bethlehem township; Mary E., wife of 
William S. Gregg, Molissa; Matilda; Mary C. ; 
Joseph; Thomas J. and John. Of this family the 
six last mentioned are deceased. The father 
passed his life on the home farm, where he died in 
1885, having been preceded bythe mother in 1859. 
In politics he is a Republican. In 1878 Mary E. 
Wright was married to John Newman, a native of 



Washington county. Penn., and they settled in 
Beallsville, same county, where he carried on a 
general merchandise business, and died in 1885. 
Mrs. Newman was afterward married to William 
S. Gregg, and to the latter union one son, Harry, 
was born July 21, 1892. Mr. Gregg owns fifty 
seven acres of highly- cultivated land, and conducts 
a general farming business. He is a member of 
the Coal Centre Presbyterian Church, while his 
wife is identified with the M. E. Society, at Coal 
Centre. 



G ARSON, SMITH 
Carson, great gr 
of this sketch, Wf 
land. Comintr t 



fd ARSON, SMITH and JEROME G. Thomas 
grandfather of the subjects 
■as born and married in Ire- 
coming to this country, he located 
in Maryland, whence a few years afterward he 
moved to Fallowfield township, Washington Co., 
Penn., where he died on the farm now owned and 
occupied by Henry Carson. His children were 
Joseph, Thomas, William and John. 

Thomas Carson, grandfather of subjects, was 
born in eastern Pennsylvania, and coming to Wash 
ington county many years ago was married January 
25, 1791, to Mary Gibson, a native of Kentucky. 
They settled on the farm in Fallowfield township, 
still owned by their descendants, and here he car- 
ried on agriculture, and followed shoemaking; also 
served as justice of the peace several terms. At 
one time, being pursued by Indians, he traveled 
seventy-five miles in one day, carrying his rifle, and 
thus escaped. He died in 1848, leaving the fol- 
lowing children: Elizabeth (wife of James Young I: 
Thomas G. (married to Elizabeth Scott); Mary 
(wife of John Grable); James S. (married to Dor- 
cas Redd); John 13. (married to Sarah Scott); Ann 
(wife of John Grable); Charlotta (wife of John 
Carson). 

John B. Carson (father of subjects) was born 
April 25, 1802, on the old home place on Pigeon 
creek, Fallowfield township. Washington Co , 
Penn.. where he arrew to manhood. He was mar- 
lied to Sarah Scott, who was born December 6, 
1813. a daughter of Parker Scott, Esq.. a farmer 
by occupation, and owner of 700 acres of laud; in 
addition to general agriculture, he was a heavy 
dealer in sheep and horses. Mr. Carson after 
marriage located on the Pigeon Creek farm, now 
occupied by his son Smith, but in the spring of 
!*(('> he moved to Maple creek, on the farm his 
son, Jerome G. now lives on. He died January 
27, 1872, and September 17. 1887, his wife passed 
away, leaving the following children: Newton (who 
was a real estate dealer, also founder of West 
Belle Vernon, and died December 24,' 1888). Mary 
(wife of Jackson Carson, of Fallowfield township), 
Smith (a fanner living on Pigeon creek), Lewis 
(living in West Pike Run township), John B. (who 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1269 



resided in Allen township until the spring of 1893, 
when he moved to Ohio), Jerome G. (on the home 
farm), and Sarah J. (now deceased). Mr. Carson 
voted the Democratic ticket, and served in various 
offices. In religion he and his wife were members 
of the Baptist Church. He served as major in the 
old-time militia. 

Smith Carson was born October 16, 1836, in 
Fallowfield township, Washington Co., Peun. He 
remained on the place up to the time of his mar- 
riage, which occurred in May, 1873, with Miss 
Amanda McMillan, who died on March 6, 1877, 
leading three sons: Charlie M., Barkley M. and 
Mack B. She belonged to the M. E. Church. Mr. 
Carson married, October 17, 1880, for his second 
wife, Miss Elmira, daughter of William Blythe, 
and they are living on the old homestead, where 
they are engaged in farming and stock raising. 
The Carsous are generally Old school Baptists and 
Democrats. 

Jerome G. Carson was born November 19, 1852, 
on the ancestral acres in Fallowfield township, and 
is the youngest son in his father's family. He at- 
tended the commou schools during boyhood, and 
has always followed farming and stock raising. 
On November 4, 187."), he was united in marriage 
with Isabelle Fry, daughter of Noah and Lydia 
(Hill) Fry, the former of whom was a native of 
Fallowfield township, the latter having been born, 
reared and married in West Pike Hun township. 
Noah Fry died in 1884, having been preceded to 
the grave by his wife several years. Mr. and Mrs. 
Carson began married life on 100| acres in Fal- 
lowfield township, where they are yet living. He 
has erected a good residence on the place, and 
does a profitable business in general farming, in- 
cluding stock raising. In politics he affiliates with 
the Democratic party, aud in religion he is a mem- 
ber of the Disciple Church, of which his wife is 
also an adherent. Children have blessed their 
union as follows: Lydia May, Joel (deceased in 
1885), Alonzo, Val and Norman F. 



COLONEL JAMES T. KIRK, who was born 
at Canonsburg, Penn., September 21, 1825, 
died at Washington, same county, December 
7, 1886. He was reared and educated at 
Canonsburg, aud there established a merchant 
tailoring house, which he carried on successfully 
until 1851, when he moved to Washington, and 
opened a similar business there, in a store which 
occupied the site of the present A. B. Caldwell 
store. Prior to the outbreak of the Civil war, he 
was a member of the "Jefferson Light Guards," 
of Canonsburg, which disbanded in 1860, or early 
in 1861. The call of April 15, 1861, for troops, 
led to the reorganization of the guards, and as Mr. 
Kirk was a lieutenant in the old command, so now 



he was elected captain of the new organization. 
Gov. Curtin accepted the company, and confirmed 
the selection of Mr. Kirk as captain; but on the 
arrival of the men at Pittsburgh, April 27, 1861, 
the quota of Pennsylvania was filled, and the 
guards were ordered to return. On May 7, follow- 
ing, the command was again ordered to Camp 
Williins, and there, on June 19, the members en- 
listed for three years, and the name " Jefferson 
Light Guards " was lost in that of Company D, 
Tenth Regiment of the Reserve Corps, which was 
mustered into State service June 19, and organized 
June 21, 1861, the date on which Capt. Kirk was 
promoted to lieutenant-colonel. On July 1 the 
regiment occupied Camp Wright, on the Allegheny 
river, proceeded to Harrisburg on the 18th, was 
received into the United States service on the 21st, 
moved to Baltimore on the 22d, and to Washing- 
ton, D. C, on the 24th. On August 1 the ad 
vance to Tenallytown, Md., was entered upon, and 
from that date to muster-out. on June 11, 1864, 
the regiment participated in all the brilliant affairs 
of the brigades to which it was attached. On the 
resignation of Col. McCalmont, Lieut. Col. Kirk 
was commissioned colonel May 15, 1862, and gal- 
lantly led the command from Mechanicsville, June 
26, 1862, to Fredericksburg Church, April 30, 1864. 
Before the regiment was ordered to the Peninsula, 
the people of Canonsburg presented their first cit- 
izen with a sword and horse iu recognition of his 
services in the army. During the battle at New- 
market Cross Roads. Col. Kirk received a sunstroke; 
at the second Bull Run, the Colonel was shot 
through the side, while commanding the Third 
Brigade, and at Gaines' Mills he was also wounded. 
After being snnstruck he returned home, but was 
again'with the command at Manassas Junction* 
the night before the battle. Owing to his wounds 
and the poor condition of his health, he resigned 
October 18, 1862, and retired with honor from the 
service. On returning to Washington, Penn.. he 
served as assistant provost- marshal until the close 
of the war. 

Resuming a business life. Col. Kirk and his 
brother George became landlords of the old "Man- 
sion House." on Main and Chestnut streets, which 
they conducted for several years. Subsequently 
he established a gents' furnishing and notion store, 
on Reed's corner (now occupied by the Pittsburgh 
Dry Goods Store), and carried on that business 
until 1876, when he sold his interests therein, and, 
practically retired from mercantile life. During 
the decade preceding his death he worked at his 
trade occasionally. He was the first captain of 
Company H, Tenth Regiment, Pennsylvania N. G., 
and that company turned out to take part in his 
funeral on December 9, 1886, which was carried 
out under direction of William F. Templeton 
Post, G. A. R.. No. 120, the burial ritual being 



1270 



UASIIJ.XGTON COUXl'Y 



observed, Major Vankirk delivering the eulogy. 

• !ol Kirk married Miss Mary Jane Swan, a sister of 
Editor William Swan, and both made their home 
at Canonsburg. The children born to that mar- 
riage are as follows: William M. (deceased);. 
George W , residing at Tyrone, Penn. ; James ('., 
a resident of Washington, Penn.: Samuel W., 
residing at Johnstown, Penn.: and Edwin T. , 
a resident of Pittsburgh, Penn. The mother, 
now seventy years old, resides with her son, James 
C in Washington. 

George A. Kirk, the father of Col. Kirk, was the 
pioneer of the family in Washington county. To 
his marriage with Jane Bell Thompson eight ebil- 
dren were born, of whom the following named are 
living: Harriet, now Mrs. Boyd Crmnrine, in Wash- 
ington; Mary and Lizzie, also in Washington; 
Robert T., in Canonsburg, and William H., a 
physician of Doylestown, Penn. Each member of 
the family fills a place in the history of the State, 
while the late Colonel fills one in the history of the 
Nation. The American ancestor of the family was 
married in Londonderry, Ireland, in 179fi, came 
to the United States shortly thereafter, and after 
a stay east of the mountains, arrived in Washing- 
ton county and settled on the Pentecost lands. In 
1811 he moved to Canonsburg, where he pur- 
chased a house and lot. In LSI 3 he and two 
neighbors went East with a band of horses, and at 
the ''South Mountain House" disappeared. 
Some days after his body was found in the mount- 
ains: but it will never be known whether he was 
lured thither by robbers, or met death while pursuing 
his journey in the nighttime. One of his sons. 
George Kirk, was postmaster at Canonsburg, 
Penn., from 1851 to 1859, when he died. 



J (NO. C. BANE was born in Amwell township. 
Washington Co., Penn.. on Wednesday, the 
) 6th day of November. 1861. He is the oldest 
son of Aaron and Mary W. Bane. He has 
one brother, Albert G. Bane, and one sister, 
Edith Bane. His father is a farmer. His ances- 
tors were Scotch Quakers, and the first branch of 
the family to oome to America settled in Penn- 
sylvania, before the Revolutionary war. 

The early life or boyhood days of Bane were 
spent upon his father's farm. During the winter 
seasons lie attended the public schools of the dis- 
trict, completing his common-school education in 
March of 1876. On the 22nd day of May, I876,he 
began a course of study at Hoge's Summit Acad- 
emy, at that time taught by Prof. John C. Messen 
ger. Hi' rode on horseback, six miles across the 
country, from his home, to attend this school, for 
a period of four years, completing his studies there 
in the early part of the year 1880. He obtained 
at this school the rudiments of a classical and 
scientific education. 



In September. IS8<>, he entered Washington and 
Jefferson College, where he took a special course, 
completing his studies in that institution, with the 
class of 1882. Between the years L882 and 1886 
he spent his time upon his father's farm, devoting 
his leisure moments to reading and the study of 
shorthand. On the 23rd day of November, 1886, 
Bane was registered as a student at law, at the 
Washington County Bar. He devoted the succeed 
ing three years to the study of his chosen profes- 
sion, supporting himself in the meantime by the 
practice of shorthand, in which he is an expert. 

On Monday, the 13th day of January, 1890, he 
was admitted to the bar. He at once commenced 
the practice of his profession in Washington. He 
has, from the very beginning of his practice, met 
with well merited success. He is to day one of the 
leading young lawyers at the Washington County 
Bar. 

Bane is an enthusiastic Democrat. Ever since 
his admission to the bar, he has been conspicuous 
as an ardent and successful party worker. He was 
elected Chairman of the Democratic County Com 
mittee of Vigilance, of Washington County, in 
1891, and re-elected in 1892. Washington Coun- 
ty, at the time he was first elected Chairman of the 
Vigilance Committee, was one of the strongest Re- 
publican Counties in Pennsylvania, but by his 
perseverance, and his abilities as an organizer, 
Bane has placed it among the doubtful counties. 
His skill as a political manager is recognized by 
his own party, and feared by his opponents in the 
opposing party. This fact has made him the most 
prominent among the politicians of the county. 
Beyond local politics, he has figured extensively in 
the politics of the State. He has been several 
times a delegate to State Conventions of his 
party, where he has always taken an active part. 
Bane is a member of the Jacques de Molay Coin 
mandery, No. 3, Knights Templar. 




,HITE H. WILSON is a worthy represent- 
ative of a pioneer family of Washington 
county. He is a son of James Wilson, 
whose father, Thomas, was a sou of 
Thomas Wilson. The latter was of Irish 
birtb, and in 1719 located on little Chartiers creek, 
Washington county, Penn. He was married to 
Hannah Brown, who died in 1830; he died in 1833. 
Thomas Wilson, son of Thomas and Hannah 
(Brown) Wilson, was born in 1787, and was a 
farmer and stock dealer. In 1810 he married Es- 
ther McCorkle, who was born in eastern Pennsyl- 
vania, and they became the parents of nine ehil 
dren, namely : James, Mary (wife of Leonard Weaver, 
a resident of Beallsville, Penn.). Margaret (wife of 
Samuel Graves, both deceased), Hannah (wife of 
White F Uoj .kins, both deceased), Jane (deceased), 




/LiiAiMu^ 



tH.O& 



O/yri 



'f^ 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1273 



Esther (deceased wife of Samuel Thompson), Eliz- 
abeth (wife of George L. Thompson, both deceased), 
Thomas C. and Robert, (both deceased), whereby it 
will be seen that James and Mary are the ouly 
survivors. The father of this family died in 1859, 
followed by the mother in 1864; both were mem- 
bers of the Presbyterian Church, and in .politics he 
voted with the Democratic party. 

James Wilson, the eldest son of Thomas and 
Esther (McCorkle) Wilson, was born February 26, 
1811, in Washington county, Penn. He attended 
the schools of the neighborhood, and was reared to 
fanning. In L831 he was united in marriage with 
Mrs. Elizabeth (Horn) Falconer (who was born in 
1801, in Washington county, Penn.), widow of 
Samuel Falconer, to whom she had borne two chil- 
dren: Thornton (deceased) and Eliza J. (wife of 
Thomas H. Howden, a farmer of West Bethlehem 
township). Mrs. Falconer was a daughter of Da 
vid and Anna (Black) Horn, early settlers of this 
county. To the union of James and Elizabeth 
(Falconer) Wilson children were born as follows: 
Esther A., wife of George Kinder (deceased), who 
was a farmer of West Bethlehem township; Char- 
lotte W., widow of G. W. Campbell, since married 
to A. J. Buffington, of Salem. Henry Co., Iowa; 
Jacob, a farmer of West Pike Run township; 
Asenath, wife of J. P. Wilson, of La Salle county, 
III.; Thomas H, a farmer of Clay county, Ind. ; 
White H., whose name introduces this biography; 
David, deceased; Elizabeth, married to Valentine 
Crumrine, of East Bethlehem township, Washing- 
ton Co., Penn. ; and Margaret, married to Joseph 
K. Horn, living in Portage county, Ohio. The 
mother died May 7, 1887, at the age of eighty-six 
years; she was a member of the M. E. Church. 
The father is yet living in West Pike Run town- 
ship, at the age of eighty-two years; he has always 
voted with the Republican party. 

White H. Wilson was born October 12, 1839, on 
the home place in West Pike Run township, Wash 
ington Co., Penn. He attended the public schools, 
and was reared to agricultural pursuits. On De- 
cember 24, 1863, he was married to Maria Deems, 
who was born in 1840 in West Pike Run township, 
a daughter of Mark F. and Margaret (Baker) 
Deems, the former of whom was a farmer. Mr. 
and Mrs. Deems were the parents of the following 
children: Joshua (a farmer in Colorado), G. W. (a 
resident of Beallsville, Penn.), Samuel P. (living 
in Nebraska), Elizabeth (wife of Joseph Hawkins, 
a farmer of Somerset township) and Maria (wife of 
White H. Wilson). The mother died in 1864, fol- 
lowed by the father in 1880. Both were members of 
the M. E. Church. To the union of White H. and 
Maria (Deems) Wilson four children have been 
born, namely: Samuel C, a grocer of Allegheny, 
Penn. ; Clara, wife of John T. Baker (they have 
one child, Lewis V.); Lelia D., wife of J. F. 



Yorty (they have two children, Maud E. and Paul 
A.), and Maggie D., still at home. Mr. Wilson in 
1892 was elected a justice of the peace in West 
Pike Run township for the term of five years. He 
and his wife are members of the Oak Grove Pres 
byteriau Church, of which he is a trustee. 



// 



MARTIN RANKIN is of Hibernian ancestry, 
his grandfather, John Rankin, having 
been born near Belfast, in County Down, 
Ireland. He was married in the old 
country, where his only son, John, was 
born and reared to manhood. The latter was mar- 
ried to Miss Kate Martin, a native of the same 
place, and the young people (accompanied by the 
elder Rankin) then immigrated to America. John 
and Kate (Martin) Rankin located on a farm of 
eighty acres in Allegheny county, Penn., where 
children were born to them as follows: Mary J., 
Charlotte, Ellen, William, John A., Andrew," Ed- 
ward, Joseph and Martin. 

Martin Rankin, whose name introduces this 
sketch, was born June 17, 1835, on the pioneer 
farm in Allegheny county, Penn. He was married 
to Appalonia, daughter of Jerry Stilley, a resident 
of Allegheny county, and they settled on a farm 
near Gill Hall, in that county. In 1876 he pur- 
chased 181 acres in Union township, this county, 
where they are yet living, and in addition to gen- 
eral farming he conducts a profitable dairy, keep- 
ing about twenty cows. Politically he is an earnest 
advocate of the principles embodied in the Repub 
lican party. The following children have been 
born to Mr. and Mrs. Martin Rankin: Albert, Ed- 
ward, Sarah, Linnie, Lewis, George, John and 
William. 



4 



V\A( ATTHEW F - McCONNELL (deceased), 
v/l son of Matthew and Ann (Merchant) Mc- 
~i I Connell (a record of whom appears on 
page 1022, this volume), was born Sep- 
tember 4, 1827, in Hanover township, 
this county, on the old McConnell homestead, sit- 
uated near Raccoon creek. He remained on his 
father's farm during boyhood, and received his 
first education at the country schools, which was 
supplemented by several terms at. Florence Acad 
emy. After leaving school he successfully fol- 
lowed the profession of school teaching in Washing- 
ton, Beaver and Allegheny counties, Penn., work- 
ing on his father's farm during the summer. He 
finally abandoned school teaching, and gave his en- 
tire attention to agricultural pursuits. On April 
4, 1873, he was married to Sarah Ann Hutton, 
who was born August 1, 1851, a daughter of C. 
D. and Mary Jane (Pugh) Hutton, of near Pugli 
town, W. Va. The grandfather of Mrs. Hutton 



1274 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 






was the founder of Pughtown, and was au early 
settler of Hancock county, in the same State. 

■ Two children were born to the union of Matthew 
F. and Sarah Ann McConnell: Samuel F. F., born 
December 30, 1875; and William A., born July 3, 
1877, both of whom are assisting their widowed 
mother in the management of the farm. Mr. Mc- 
Connell passed his whole life on his birthplace, 
and followed general farming until the time of his 
Budden demise, March 8, 1891, which was caused 
by heart failure; he was buried in Cross Roads 
cemetery, at Florence, Penn. In politics he was a 
lifelong Democrat, and in religion a consistent 
member of the Presbyterian Church at Florence, 
of which he was a trustee. Since his death Mrs. 
McConnell has been living on the old place, which 
she conducts with the assistance of her two sons. 
Before her marriage she was a member of the Rob- 
inson United Presbyterian Church, since which 
time she has been identified with the Cross Roads 
Presbyterian Church. 



/ 



V\/If B ' MERCER (deceased), a well-known 
Xf/\ resident and successful merchant of 
li I Florence, Penn., was a son of William 
' Mercer, who was born near Canonsburg, 
Penn., in 1707. 
William Mercer was educated in the subscrip- 
tion schools of the day, and in 1815 entered the 
store of Robert Bowland, Esq., of Burgettstown, 
Penn., as a clerk, being a most trusted employe. 
On March 28, 1821, he was married to Eliza Bow- 
land, who was born September 27, 1801, in Can- 
onsburg, daughter of his employer. In 1824 Mr. 
Mercer entered business in Florence, Penn., which 
he successfully conducted until his retirement from 
active life in 1848. He then removed to the edge 
of the town and erected a very pleasant brick 
residence on a nice tract of land, there living a 
retired life. On March 28. 1871. Mr. and Mrs. 
Mercer celebrated their golden wedding. He died 
at the advanced age of eighty years. His venerable 
widow, although a sufferer for twenty years, sur- 
vived him until March 12. 1877, when she too 
passed away. In politics he was a Whig, and 
later a Republican, taking an interest in the suc- 
cess of his party. In 1829 he was appointed 
postmaster of Florence, which office he filled for 
many years. For over sixty years he was a mem- 
ber of the Presbyterian Church, with which he 
united in 1816. In 1853 he was chosen ruling 
elder in the Florence Presbyterian Church, and 
held that office until his death, being a strong 
pillar in the church. Both he and his wife were 
buried in Florence cemetery. Seven children were 
born to this union, namely: Elizabeth, the wife of 
Hon. Lecky Harper, of Mt. Vernon, Ohio, propri- 
etor and publisher of The Banner; Robert B., a 



farmer of Hanover township; Martha, wife of Dr. 
J. W. McCabe, died in 1857; William B. . a drug 
gist of Mansfield, Ohio; Harriot, married to Seaton 
Walker, a woolen manufacturer of Allegheny 
county, Penn. ; M. B., our subject, and Gay lord. 
Of these children Elizabeth is the only one yet liv- 
ing. 

M. B. Mercer was born February 23, 1839, at 
Florence, Penn., and being an apt scholar and close 
student at the common schools, completed his 
education at the higher institutions of learning. 
When a young man he entered the drug store of 
his brother,. William B. , at Mansfield, Ohio, re 
maining there some time, and then entered Book- 
ing's drug store at Wheeling, W. Va. He finally 
began business for himself in Allegheny, Penn., 
where he was established on Beaver avenue. 
Here he married Mary E. Hollins, July 7, 1869, 
who was born February 20, 1849, in Allegheny 
county, Penn., a lady of English parentage. Her 
father, George Hollins, was a native of Stafford- 
shire, England, and her mother, Elizabeth (Green) 
Hollins, was born in Gloucestershire, England. 
After his marriage Mr. Mercer opened a drug store in 
Pittsburgh, corner of Wylie and Washington streets, 
and was among the prominent pharmacopolists 
of the ''Smoky City." In 1875, owing to the fail- 
ing health of his aged parents, he disposed of his 
interests there, and removed to Florence, Wash- 
ington county, where he continued to care for 
them until they died. In 1878 he opened a drug 
store in Florence, this county, on the site where 
his father won success. Here he remained until 
heart failure caused his death, while on his way to 
Pittsburgh, January 14, 1891. Mr. Mercer was 
very popular socially, an efficient druggist, and an 
enterprising citizen. He was a Democrat, serving 
as postmaster during Cleveland's administration, 
and was assistant postmaster at the time of his 
death. He was an active member and trustee of 
the Presbyterian Church, also serving in other- 
capacities. He was also a member of Cardville 
Lodge, No. 407, I. O. O. F. Since his death his 
widow has been living in Florence, surrounded by 
her many friends. 



d | AMES SCOTT, one of the foremost business 
men of Smith township, is a native of the 
J same, having been born December 27, 1827, 
on his father's farm. He is a son of Finley 
and grandsou of Abraham Scott. Abraham Scott 
was born and reared in Maryland, and when a 
young man came to Pittsburgh, Penn, afterward 
settling in Washington county, with his brother 
Alexander. He purchased a wild tract of land 
near Raccoon postoffice, Robinson township, where 
his life was passed in agricultural pursuits. He 
was married to .lane, a sister of John Finley (the 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1275 



founder of Fiuleyville), and reared the following 
children: Rachel (Mrs. James Russell), Mary (wife 
of Thomas Fletcher), Ann (married to James Kerr), 
Jane (wife of David White), Elizabeth (Mrs. Will 
iam Scott), Susan (married to John McBride), Abra- 
ham, Finley, Holland and Samuel. The father was 
a Democrat in politics, and in religion a member 
of the Presbyterian Church at Raccoon. 

F'itdey Scott was born in 1800, in Robinson town- 
ship, and educated in this county. In 1822 he se- 
lected, as his life companion, Margaret, daughter 
of James Stephenson, of Smith township. The 
young people first settled on a farm in Robinson 
township, this county, remaining there a few years, 
when they rented a neighboring farm, afterward 
purchasing a place in Smith township, where they 
lived twenty years, and finally moved to the home 
where the remainder of their lives was passed. 
The children of this couple were: Ann, Robert K., 
James, Samuel, Finley, John, Levi. Jane F. (Mrs. 
William Cowen) and Margaret (wife of Thomas 
Ackleson). Mr. Scott was the architect of his own 
fortune, and owned 450 acres of land at the time 
of his death, which occurred in 1879. He was a 
Democrat, ami held various township offices. In 
church connection he was first a member of the 
U. P. Church at Bnrgettstown, this county, after 
ward uniting with the Associate Reformed Church, 
in which he was an elder. Both he and his wife 
are buried in the TJ. P. cemetery. 

James Scott received a common school education, 
and followed agricultural pursuits on the home 
farm until 1852. He and his brother Finley then 
joined the throng of gold seekers bound for Cali 
fornia. first going to New York, then sailing in the 
steamer "Eldorado" to Aspinwall, thence crossing 
the fever haunted Isthmus, partly by water, partly 
by rail, the rest on foot, and at length, after 
tramping some twenty-one miles, they reached 
Panama. One of the men was there taken sick 
with the fever prevalent in that locality, and the 
entire party was detained a few days. When he 
had partially recovered, they took passage for San 
Francisco on the steamer " J. L. Stevens," pro 
ceeding on their journey until opposite San Pedro 
bay, in California. The ship then became disabled, 
and they were obliged to lay to until assistance 
could be brought from San Francisco. They had 
barely reached their destination when the sick 
companion, William Shields, succumbed to the 
fever and passed away. James Scott followed the 
life of a miner in El Dorado county, but not real- 
izing his expectations of success returned to Wash- 
ington county the following year, by the same 
route as on the outward journey. He then took 
charge of the "Old Egypt Mill" at Midway, con- 
ducting that business for several years. On June 
12, 1855, he was married to Lizzie Galbraith, who 
was born in 1831, daughter of William Galbraith, 



of Smith township. They have had the following 
children: Finley S. (deceased, married to Anna 
Riddile), William G. (a machinist of Wellsville, 
Ohio), Harry C. F. (living at home), Samuel G. (a 
blacksmith of Cross Creek village) and George R. 
(living with his father). The mother of this family 
died in 1873, ana" on August 20, 1878, the father 
was united in marriage with Lizzie E. B., daughter 
of John Gregg, who has borne him one son, John 
G. After his marriage Mr. Scott located on a farm 
situated about two miles eastof Bnrgettstown, this 
comity, where he resided until 1859. then located 
on his present home, which is one mile and a half 
south of that borough. Mr. Scott was engaged in 
the agricultural and implement business for three 
years, having since followed farming and stock 
raising. He is well and favorably known in the 
township, and in polities was a Democrat before 
the war, having since voted the Republican ticket. 
He is not an active politician, but has held various 
township offices. He and his wife are both con- 
sistei t members of the TJ. P. Church. 



I( SAAC N. SPRINGER is descended from Swed- 
ish ancestry, and traces his lineage to one 
J Charles C. Springer, a nobleman from Stock 
holm. Sweden, who landed in this country 
about 1689. He settled where Wilmington. Del., 
now stands, where in time he owned an extensive 
plantation. He was a prominent member of the 
Swedish Church. His son, Jacob Springer, assisted 
in the erection of the first church in the colonies, 
known as the Swedish Church of Wilmington, 
Del. In 1770 the ground where is now the city of 
Wilmington, Del., wasleased for a term of ninety 
nine years, and the lease or deed is still in the pos- 
session of the descendants of the Springer family 

John G. Springer was born August 6, 17Si5. a 
son of Jacob Springer, Jr., was reared and edu- 
cated in Wilmington, Del., and came to Washing- 
ton county, Penn., many years ago. On February 
1, 1810, he was married to Miss Jennie Newkirk, 
of this county, and they first located on a farm in 
East Pike Run township, moving in 1826 to a 
property in West Pike Run township. He was a 
Whig in politics, and served repeatedly in an 
official capacity. He was sergeant in Robert Kerr 
Company, Ninety-ninth Regiment of the Pennsyl- 
vania Militia, which was noted in the war of 1812- 
14. In religion he was one of the first trustees of 
the old West Church, located in West Pike Run 
township. His children were Newton (deceased). 
Henry N. , Rhoda (wife of David Knight), Nancy 
(Mrs McJunkins), Elmira (deceased wife of James 
Morton), Mrs. John Taylor, John and Jane (de- 
ceased). 

Henry N. Springer, son of John G. Springer, 
was born August 19, 1817, in East Pike Run town- 



1 276 



WA SHING TON COVN TY. 



ship, Washington Co., Penn., and attended the 
primitive subscription schools of the day. In 1844 
h«» was united in marriage with Phoebe Hill, daugh- 
ter of Joseph Hill, of West Pike Run township, 
and their children are Helen, H. Ed., Isaac N., 
Elmira (wife of Isaac Morris), Catherine (wife of 
Samuel Morris), and Joseph J. A. Mr. Springer 
was formerly a builder and contractor, and in his 
business experience erected many of the buildings 
in the eastern part of the comity. In 1844 he 
moved to West Brownsville, and there engaged in 
ship building, a business lie followed until 1855, 
when he retired to the farm. In political opinion 
lie was a Whig until the organization of the Re- 
publican party, since when he has been identified 
with the latter. He is a member of the M. E. 
Church at Newkirk's. 

Isaac N. Springer, son of Henry N. and Phoebe 
(Hill) Springer, was born September 5, 1855, in 
West Pike Run township, Washington Co., Penn. 
He attended the neighborhood schools, remaining 
on the farm until 1877. when he bought a pho- 
tographic car, and traveled through western Penn- 
sylvania. On May 14, 1881, he was united in mar- 
riage with Ellen M. , daughter of Jacob and Helen 
French, of California, Penn. (Jacob French died 
in 1866, in Jefferson, Greene Co., Penn.). After 
his marriage he opened a store at Garwood, this 
county, of which place he was appointed postmas- 
ter in March, 1884. In the fall of 1884 Mr. 
Springer's life was endangered through robbers 
entering his store and dwelling at Garwood. Mr. 
Springer has been very unfortunate in this re 
spect, as burglars have entered his place of busi- 
ness three times, but he has always had them ap- 
prehended and brought to justice. In 1887 he 
bought out the store of James Herrou. at Cali- 
fornia, in partnership with whom he conducted the 
business until 1891, since which time he has been 
sole proprietor. Mr. and Mrs. Springer have 
one son, H. Earle. Our subject is a Republican, 
and has served as auditor and school director at 
California. In religion he is a member of the M. 
E. Church, of which he is a trustee, and was one 
of a committee of three chosen to erect a parson- 
age, which is a credit to the town. 



YfOHN B. HAYS is one of the representative 
^ I citizens of Smith township, and comes of an 
(f J J eminent pioneer family, of whom one David 
Hays, on September 13, 17S7, purchased 
land in New Jersey, where children were born to 
him and reared as follows: John, Thomas, David, 
Joseph, William, James and Moses, and five daugh- 
ters, whose names are unknown. 

Moses Hays was born in the State of New 
Jersey, and after partially learning the black- 
smith's trade was drafted, at the age of sixteen. 



into the Continental army, and with five brothers 
of his he served through the war as regimental 
blacksmith, and during the contest his brother 
John, who was a lieutenant, received a wound 
which afterward caused his death. In 1783 Moses 
was married to Jemima Peterson, a native of New 
Jersey. Soon after the close of the Revolutionary 
war, Moses, with his wife and brothers, went 
West, settling on 1.000 acres of land* about three 
miles southeast of Burgettstown, this county, on 
Raccoon creek. The brothers divided this tract, 
and Moses made a permanent home upon his share, 
which is still owned by Alex Hays, where the 
following children were born to him and reared: 
Thomas (moved to Jackson county, Ohio, where he 
died), born October 5, 1784; Edith (wife of David 
Hays, of Ohio), born February 27, 1786; John (de 
ceased near Moorefield, Harrison Co., Ohio), born 
February 3. 1789; William (killed by accident), 
born April 7, 1791; James (deceased in Allegheny 
county, Penn.), born June 11, 1793; Alexander, 
born November 11,1795; Mary (deceased in youth), 
born December 25, 1797; Eleanor (deceased wife 
of James Todd, of Allegheny county), born No 
vember 15, 1799; Joseph (deceased on the home 
farm), born February 15, 1801; David (deceased 
farmer of Smith township, married to Martha 
Fulton), born May 7, 1803; and Ann (deceased in 
youth), born June 23, 1805. Moses Hays pos 
sessed a remarkably retentive memory, easily re- 
calling incidents of the Revolutionary war fifty 
years after the conflict. Anything once seen or 
heard he never forgot, and easily brought it to 
mind whenever the subject arose. He was a prom- 
inent and successful farmer, and in religion was a 
member of the Raccoon Church during the ministry 
of Rev. Moses Allen, who was a personal friend 
of Moses Hays. The latter passed away in 1836, 
being followed a few days thereafter by his wife. 
Alexander Hays was born November 11, 1795, 
on the farm of his father in Smith township. His 
literary attainments were acquired in the primitive 
log-cabin schoolhouse of the day, the instruction 
being as limited as the furniture, but Alexander 
Hays soon gave evidence of unusual mechanical 
ability, readily learning both the carpenter's and 
blacksmith's trades. In 1824 he made choice of a 
wife in the person of Ann Stevenson, who was 
born in 1802, daughter of James Stevenson, an ex- 
tensive landowner of Smith township. The chil- 
dren born to this union were as follows: One de- 
ceased in infancy, James S. (whose name opens 
this sketch), Jemima (deceased in infancy), John 
B. (a farmer of Smith township) and Joseph (a 
lawyer in Pittsburgh, Penn.). Alexander and Ann 
(Stevenson) Hays began married life on a part of 
the old Stevenson tract, lying about one mile and 
a quarter west of Burgettstown, Penn., where they 
passed all of their wedded life. He was an 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1277 



industrious, kind-hearted man, possessing man; 
friends. In politics be was a stanch supporter of 
Democratic principles, and filled several township 
offices to the eutire satisfaction of his party. He 
died in 18-16, and in 1881 his widow was laid to 
rest beside him. 

John B. Hays (a sou of Alexander and Ann 
(Stevenson) Hays) was the fourth child in his 
father's family. He was born on the farm in 
Smith township, this county, where he is now liv- 
ing, and attended the rate schools during bis boy- 
hood. He cherished a youthful ambition to be- 
come a lawyer, and to this end took a practical 
course in Washington College, but owing to the 
failing health of his parents, he soon returned to 
the farm. During the "gold fever" excitement 
he went to California, remaining three years, then 
returned to his widowed mother, and was after- 
ward employed as a dry-goods clerk in the store of 
his uncle, J. B. Phillis, of Burgettstown, this 
county. John B. Hays was a soldier in the Civil 
war, being promoted for bravery and efficient 
service to the rank of captain. At the close of the 
war he returned to the home place, and September 
30, 1875, was united in marriage with Mary A. 
Scott, who was born January '20, 1840, daughter 
of Josiah N. and Rachel (Vance) Scott, of Jeffer 
son township, this county. Mr. and Mrs. Hays 
are the parents of the following children: Ernest 
B., George P., John VV., and Joseph (deceased at 
the age of three years), the living children all re- 
siding at home. Mr. Hays has been extensively 
engaged in the dairy business, but has been more 
active in political than agricultural life. He is 
one of the leading advisers and workers of the 
Republican party in his vicinity, and has held 
various township offices, in which be has always 
given perfect satisfaction. He was a justice of tin- 
peace for fifteen years, first elected in 1850, and in 
1890 was appointed by President Harrison to the 
position of Government gauger and storekeeper in 
the District of Washington, Greene and West- 
moreland counties, Pennsylvania. 




^ILLIAM W. PAUL, of Amwell township, 
is a descendant of William Paul, who was 
born in 1615, emigrated from Gravesend, 
England, June 10, 16:15, in the ship 
"True Love," of Loudon, and in 1637 
located in Taunton, Mass. 

William Paul, a descendant of this pioneer, 
was born in Washington county, Penn. , and after- 
ward located in Amwell township, south of Amity, 
where he purchased the farm now owned by J. Ful- 
ton Bell and Philip Swart, which he owned until his 
death. He was married to Hannah Slaught, who 
bore him the following named children: James, 
Huston, Nathan, Sarah (Mrs. Abel McFarland), 



Rosa (Mrs. Cristopher Venum), Andrew, Daniel 
M., Lavinia (Mrs. Michael Schulser), John, Will- 
iam, Philo, and Adaline (Mrs. Thomas Reese). 
The father of this family died in Ohio; the mother 
died near Lone Pine, Penn., aged eighty two years. 

Philo Paul was born in Amwell township, Wash- 
ington Co., Penn., March '26, 1824, and passed 
his early youth on the farm with his father. In 
1841 he purchased a farm in West Bethlehem 
township, where he lived until August, 1862, when 
he enlisted in the war of the Rebellion, in Com 
pany D, One Hundred and Fortieth P. V. I. ; he 
was killed at Spottsylvania Court-house. He was 
married to Miss Sarah Hughes, of Amwell town 
ship, and they had nine children: William W., 
James M. , John A., Daniel W., Alexander H., 
David C, Benjamin Franklin, Abraham Lincoln 
and Laura Jewell Day. 

William W. Paul, son of Philo and Sarah Paul, 
was born December 26, 1843, in Amwell township, 
this county; he received his education in the com 
moil schools, and was afterward a student for some 
time at Pleasant Valley Academy. He lived in 
West Bethlehem township and worked on a farm, 
but when twenty years of age removed to Amwell, 
afterward carrying on a sawmill for his father, 
which he finally bought. He continued in that 
business twenty years, and then engaged in mer- 
cantile business at Lone Pine. On November 24, 
1864, Mr. Paul was united in marriage with Phoebe 
Jane Egy, and to this union have been born three 
daughters, viz.: Sarah Lillian, born in 1868; Nora 
Jewell, born in 1873, and Dale W., born in 1879, 
all of whom are attending school and living at 
home. Mr. Paul is a Republican in politics, and 
now tills the position of postmaster at. Lone Pine. 
He and his family are members of the Christian 
Church at that place. 




ILLIAM C. AIKEN. Among the emi- 
nent names connected with Washington 
county, none are more favorably known 
than that of this gentleman. He is a son 
of Joseph, who was a son of Joseph, the 
first of the Aiken family to locate in Smith town- 
ship. 

Joseph Aiken was born in 1760, east of the 
mountains. His birthplace is uuknown, but Mary- 
land was probably his native State. He was mar 
ried to Nancy Wilson, who was born in 1764, 
daughter of William Wilson, and in 1794 the 
young couple made the long and difficult journey 
over the mountains, locating one mile south of 
Bulger Station, Smith township, this county. They 
first erected a rude log cabin, and began to improve 
| the property with such primitive tools as were ob- 
i taiuable. But perseverance and industry will con- 
quer almost any obstacle, and success at last 



1278 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



crowned the efforts of these heroic frontiersmen. 
Five children came to bless the union of Joseph 
and Nancy Aiken, viz. : One deceased in infancy, 
William (killed by a falling tree), Martha (married 
to James Montgomery, of Allegheny county, after 
ward moved to Iowa), Nancy (deceased in Guernsey 
county, Ohio, married to Alexander Cowan, a 
blacksmith) and Joseph. The father was a Whig 
in politics, and a soldier in the war of 1812; he 
and his wife both died in the home where our sub- 
ject now lives, the father on November 1(3, 1836, 
the mother in 1849. Both were members of the 
Seceder Church. 

Joseph Aiken was born February 19, 1800, on 
the farm in Smith township, where his father had 
first located. His boyhood was passed on the home 
place, and he received a common-school education. 
On June 11, 1835, he was married to Margaret 
Mackey, who was born March 16, 1810, in Alle- 
gheny county, Penn., a daughter of William and 
Deborah Mackey, natives of Ireland, who came to 
Allegheny county in an early day, and moved to 
Spencer, Guernsey Co., Ohio, when their daughter 
Margaret was but four years of age. She grew to 
womanhood in Ohio, and was there married to Joseph 
Aiken, who located on the old Aiken place in Smith 
township, Washington Co., Penn., and four chil- 
dren were born to them, as follows: W. C. (whose 
name opens this sketch), Alexander W. (deceased, 
at one time a grocer in Allegheny City, Penn. ), 
Fanny J. (deceased wife of Vance Smith, of Mt. 
Pleasant) and Joseph M. (a grocerymau of Alle- 
gheny City, Penn.). The father was a Whig in 
politics, and in church connection a member of the 
Seceder Society, now the U. P. Church. He died 
February 24, 1840, and his widow has continued 
to reside on the home place with her son William 
C. Much credit is due this lady for the manner in 
which she has borne the double responsibilities of 
a widowed life so many long years. A faithful 
mother and Christian lady, she has inculcated the 
principles of honor and industry in the minds of 
her fatherless children, who have done credit to 
her training. She is a member of the TJ. P. 
Church, and a most highly esteemed lady. 

William C. Aiken, the eldest son of Joseph and 
Margaret Aiken, was born March 27, 1836, on the 
old homestead where he is yet living. He received 
but a limited education, for, being the eldest son, 
when his father died he was needed to assist his 
widowed mother, with whom he has always resided. 
On October 21, 1868, he married Sarah C. McFar- 
land, who was born August 12, 1842, a daughter of 
Samuel McFarland, of Smith township, and two 
sons were born to them: Joseph M. (living at 
home), born July 12, 1870; and Samuel A., born 
March 13, 1872, died March 20, 1874. The mother 
was called away April 3, 1872, and was buried in 
the Centre cemetery at Midway, this county. On 



May 1, 1879, W. C. Aiken was married to Sarah 
A. Tannehill, who was born February 3, 1847, a 
daughter of John and Margaret (McCahan) Tanne- 
hill. Three children have been born to this mar 
riage, as follows: Oscar V., born January 22, 1880; 
Margaret C. , born September 25, 1881, and Ida, 
deceased when nineteen days old. 

William C. Aiken has always resided on the 
home farm, which he now owns, and has been a 
successful business man. In politics he is an active 
member of the Republican party, and has voted 
each year since old enough, his first vote being cast 
for Abraham Lincoln. He has served in various 
township offices, and was elected justice of the 
peace, but declined to accept that position. For 
twenty or more years Mr. Aiken has been in the 
dairy business, being the second shipper of milk 
from Bulger. They are members of the Centre 
United Presbyterian Church at Midway, and he 
has served as a member of the Session for over 
twenty years. 



JjOHN DUNBAR. Foremost among the suc- 
| cessful and progressive farmers of Smith 
J township stands the name of John Dunbar, 
who represents an old and prominent family 
of Irish descent. James Dunbar (grandfather of our 
subject) was born near Belfast, County Antrim. Ire- 
land, and being of an adventurous disposition, be- 
came a sailor in early life. He came to America and 
made a permanent settlement on Raccoon creek, 
Smith township, this county, being obliged to 
•'grub out" a site for the first, cabin which he 
erected, but his energy knew no discouragement, 
and success at length crowned his efforts. He 
was united in marriage with Mary McConnell, of 
Robinson township, this county, who bore him 
! twelve children, namely: James, Jane, Thomas, 
Joseph, Robert, Martha, Elizabeth, John, Samuel, 
Mary, William, and an infant son (deceased). In 
the latter part, of his life Mr. Dunbar lived for 
sometime in Robinson township. Although begin- 
ning life as a poor sailor boy,he possessed the right 
spirit of perseverance, and at the time of his death 
was a wealthy man. He died in 1842, having been 
preceded by his wife many years. 

James Dunbar (the eldest son in the above men- 
tioned family) was born May 11, 1802, in Robin- 
son township, this couuty, and assisted his father 
in agricultural duties during early life. He then 
learned the carpenter's trade, ami followed it ever 
afterward. On February 15, 1827, he was united 
in marriage with Mary Elder, who was born Octo- 
ber 20, 1806, daughter of David Elder, of Robin- 
son township, this county, and their children were 
Mary J., born January 12, 1830, deceased August 
15, 1852, wife of Samuel Scroggs, a merchant of 
Candor; Martha(wife of Samuel Castuer,of Inde- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1279 



peudence township), born March 2, 1832; John, 
horn August 15, 1835; David E., born December 
17, 1837 (went West and no tidings have been since 
received of him); James A. (deceased, a well-edu- 
cated man), born April 1, 1839; Margaret (de- 
ceased wife of William McBride), born June 24, 
1841; Robert (a traveler in California), born No- 
vember 17, 1844; Ann Eliza (wife of William 
Waters, of Pittsburgh), born June 10, 1846; and 
Thomas J. (deceased in infancy), born January 23, 
1848. Besides working at his trade, James Dun- 
bar owned and partially managed a farm. He 
was a Democrat, and in religion he and his wife 
were members of the Raccoon Presbyterian Church. 
He died August 28, 1878, being followed by his 
wife June 25, 1880. 

John Dunbar (the eldest son of James) was 
born August 15, 1835, on the same farm where he 
is now residing. As the eldest of the children, 
the greater share of the work fell to him, and in 
order to attend school in the daytime he was 
obliged to mine coal at night. On January 8, 
1874, he chose a wife in the person of Ann M. 
Springer, who was born July 10, 1844, in Smith 
township, daughter of John and Mary (Spencer) 
Spriuger. The young people located on the home 
farm, upon which they have erected new buildings 
and made many improvements. In politics John 
Dunbar voted the Democratic ticket, taking an 
active interest in the success of his party. He 
ami liis wife are consistent members of the Raccoon 
Presbyterian Church. 



QEORGE M. MILLER is a representative of 
a prominent pioneer family of Washington 
county, and is a grandson of Christopher 
Miller, who was married in Donegal town- 
ship, this county, where his children were 
born and reared, as follows: Mrs. McConahey, 
John, Margaret, Jesse, Mary (wife of John Birch) 
and George. 

George Miller, youngest son of Christopher, was 
born on the home farm in Donegal township, re- 
ceiving an education at the public schools of the 
vicinity. He was married to Sarah, daughter of 
William Noble, and reared the following children: 
Isaac, Luciuda (deceased), Isabella (wife of J. P. 
McAdow), William H. (who enlisted in Company 
K, One Hundred and Fortieth P. V. I. , was killed 
at Gettysburg on the evening of July 2), George 
M., Rachel (married to William R. Noble), Mary, 
H. C. (deceased) and Ella. Of these children 
Mary, Ella and Rachel died of fever within two 
weeks of each other. Isaac enlisted in 1862, in 
Company K. One Hundred and Fortieth P. V. I. , 
attached to the army of the Potomac; he was 
wounded May 1, 1S64, in the battle of the Wilder- 
ness, and remained with the Todd family for two 



weeks, when he was taken by the Confederates to 
Libby Prison. He was exchanged four months 
later, returned home, and is now a resident of 
McCurie, Kans. The father was a shoemaker by 
trade. In politics he was first a Whig, then a 
member of the Know nothing party, and after- 
ward an Abolitionist and Republican. He died in 
1872. 

George M. Miller was born June 7, 1847, in 
Donegal township, this county, and remained at 
home during his early life. When eighteen years 
of age he attended Claysville Normal School, 
teaching the Hore School in East Finley township 
the following winter. The next summer he again 
went to the normal, and taught the home school in 
the ensuing winter. He then began the study of 
medicine, and in 1871 entered into partnership 
with G. H. Miller in the drug business, in which 
he remained until taken sick. He then taught 
school until 1875, when he entered the employ of 
David Campsey, of Claysville, this county, remain- 
ing with him until March, 1880, when he opened 
out his present drug business in Burgettstown. In 
1876 he was united in marriage with Anna, daugh- 
ter of Samuel J. Ghrist, who died leaving him one 
daughter, Sarah E. Mr. Miller is a Republican, 
and in religious faith is an active member of and 
an elder in the Presbyterian Church. 



JOHN M. ENLOW, an enterprising business 
man of Claysville, was born September 6,1845, 
in East Finley township, Washington Co., 
Penn., and is a great grandson of Abraham 
Enlow, who came to East Finley township 
in an early day, and patented 3,000 acres of land 
in the wilderness, to which he finally moved with 
his family, and there passed his remaining years. 
Abraham Enlow had ten children, seven sons and 
three daughters: two sons (whose names are un- 
known, went to Tennessee), Elliott, William, 
Michael, Luke, Henry, Mrs. Rachel St. Clair, 
Mrs. Jemima Hill and Mrs. Mary Post. When 
the parents died the land was divided among the 
children, each of whom settled on their respective 
farms, and made improvements. In politics Mr. 
Enlow was a Democrat, and in religion an enthu- 
siastic member of the M-. E. Church. 

Elliott Enlow was born in Maryland, and when 
a small boy was brought to Washington county. 
In early life he was united in marriage with Martha 
Atkinson, a resident of East Finley township, and 
they had nine children, viz. : Henry, John, Gideon, 
Mrs. Mary Patterson, Mrs. Rachel Marshall, Mrs. 
Elizabeth Thornberg. Mrs. Eleanor Sprowls, Mrs. 
Jemima Patterson, and Martha, unmarried. His 
entire life was passed in farming. Irr religion 
Elliott Enlow and his brother Henry were instru 
mental in founding what was formerly called 






1280 



WASHING TON CO UN T V. 



Enlow's Chapel, and uow known as the Stony Point 
M. E. Church, of which he was for many years one 
of the most effective workers and liberal support- 
ers. In politics he was an active Democrat, but 
never could be induced to accept any official posi- 
tion. His brother Henry was for many years a 
justice of the peace, andenjoyed a favorable repu- 
tation in the community. 

John Eulow was born in 1802, in East Finley 
township, Washington county, and received his 
education in the home school. He was married to 
Nancy, daughter of Robert Woods, one of the old- 
est pioneers of the township, and the young peo- 
ple immediately settled on the homo farm in East 
Finley township, which became their permanent 
abiding place. They had one son, who died when 
ten years of age. After the death of his first wife 
John Enlow married Jemima Post, and to this 
union were born seven children: Sarah, wife of 
Rev. J. W. Hill; Martha, wife of John Hopkins; 
Mary, wife of Amos Sprowls; Nancy, wife of S. 
E. Martin; John M. ; Gideon and Eleanor, both of 
whom died before reaching maturity. Mr. Enlow 
was a prominent member of the M. E. Church 
which was founded by his father. In political 
views he was a Democrat. He died September 10, 
L876, and was followed to the grave by his wife in 
May, IS so. 

John M. Enlow passed his early life on the farm 
where he was born, and was reared to agricultural 
pursuits, receiving a common -school education. 
On November 7, 1877, he was married to Lizzie 
E., daughter of John W. Hill. He remained on 
the home farm on which his great-grandfather had 
located until 1888, when he came to Claysville.and 
in 1891 purchased his present stock of furniture 
and an undertaking establishment. The firm are 
Enlow & Noble. They do all kinds of cabinet 
work and embalm in the best and most approved 
manner, making a success of their business, as 
they are both energetic men. Mr. Enlow is a 
leader in the Republican party, and being a warm 
friend of education, has frequently served the 
township as school director. In religion he united 
in early life with the Stony Point M. E. Church, 
and ever took an active interest in the work of that 
Society, having held various offices in the church 
and Sunday-school, which he has tilled to the satis- 
faction of all. 

FM. MORRISON, a prosperous stock raiser 
of Nottingham township, is a son of Benja 
niin P. Morrison, who was born November 
2, INI 1, in Nottingham township, this coun- 
ty. On May 31, 1838, Benjamin was mar- 
ried to Rebecca Rea, who died April 21, 1849, 
leaving four children: Elizabeth J., Hamilton R. , 
John D. and Sarah E. On April 17, 1851, he 
married, for his second wife, Mary McKowu, a 



native of Allegheny county, Penn. , who was born 
in 1814, near Bridgeville, Penn. One child was 
born to this marriage, P. M. Morrison, whose 
name opens this sketch. The father was a farmer 
and stock dealer. He died July 25, 1800, and 
the mother is yet living with her son. 

P. M. Morrison was born October 7, 1853, 
on the home farm in Nottingham township, this 
county, where his early education was received. 
On October 10, 1872, he was united in marriage 
with a daughter of James Hamilton, who bore him 
five children, viz. : Lucy G., Maggie E., Delia B., 
Viola J. and Lomau P. The mother died March 
13, 1889, and on September 24, 1891. he made a 
second choice in the person of Mary, daughter of 
John Sleeth. Her parents resided near Hickory, 
this county, and she is a native of the county. 
One son has been born to this marriage, John M. 

Mr. Morrison resides on the home farm, which 
consists of 177 acres, and devotes his principal 
attention to raising sheep and cattle, usually keep 
ing from one to three hundred sheep, and making 
a specialty of Shropshire stock. The farm con- 
tains a rich vein of coal, which he sold recently for 
a good price. He also owns two acres of land 
fronting on the railroad, and two double dwellings 
in the village of Venetia, one containing twelve 
rooms and the other six. Politically he is an ad- 
vocate of the principles embodied in the Demo- 
cratic party, and has served as township auditor 
and supervisor. In religion he is a member of the 
Presbyterian Church at Fairview, and is leading 
the choir, having filled that position very accept- 
ably for several years. 



JAMES TUCKER, a representative of one of 
the pioneer families of Washington county, 
,' comes of English descent, his ancestors hav- 
ing emigrated to Virginia in the early part 
of the eighteenth century. They settled in the 
Shenandoah Valley, where James Tucker (from 
whom the present generation trace their geneal- 
ogy) was born. In 1775 he came to Pennsyl 
vania and secured a '"tomahawk right" in Amwell 
township, Washington county, and the land re- 
mained in the possession of the family until 1891, 
when it was sold. At the early date he came here 
but one settler was in the vicinity, a Mr. Bane. 
Mr. Tucker was married to Elizabeth Bane, a 
resident of Virginia, and the following children 
brightened the rude pioneer home: Isaac, Tem- 
pest, Thomas, Joseph, James, Rachel, Ruth, Han 
nah, Elizabeth and Mary. Mr. Tucker was a 
member of the Baptist Church at Mt. Herman. 

Tempest Tucker was born in Amwell township, 
Washington Co., Penn., April 1, 1770, and passed 
liis earlier years on the farm of his father. In 
1800 he was united in marriage with Sarah Mc 
(Main, who bore him five children: John, James, 




w 




t> 




1/^ 




WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1283 



Elizabeth, Phoebe (Mrs. Adam Weir) and Sarah. 
After his marriage Mr. Tucker built a grist-mill, 
which was one of the first water mills in Wash- 
ington county, and was situated on Bane's fork of 
Ten-Mile creek. He remained on that farm until 
1851, when he removed to the place now occupied 
by the subject of this sketch. Mr. Tucker ac- 
cumulated a comfortable property, the result of 
his early toil. He was a member of the Baptist 
Church at Mt. Herman, and a liberal contributor 
to that Society. He died on the farm iu February, 
1854, his wife on August 30, 1851, and the re- 
mains of both rest in the cemetery at Mt. Herman. 

John Tucker was born in Amwell township, 
Washington Co., Penn., May 23, 1803, and lived 
at home until about twenty years of age, when he 
served an apprenticeship of three years with Patter- 
son Pollock, a leading wheelwright of Greene 
county, Penn. He then followed that vocation in 
Greene and Washington counties, until about the 
year 1853. when he retired to the farm, and built 
the grist-mill at Meadow Lands. On November 
10, 1831, he was married to Isabelle, daughter of 
William McClenathan, and the following children 
were born to them: Sarah (Mrs. Stephen Post), 
William M. , James and John (deceased). In 1841 
Mr. Tucker purchased the farm of 200 acres upon 
which his father resided. In politics he was a 
Republican, and served several terms as school 
director. His wife passed away March 13, 1873, 
and he followed her March 15, 1875. 

James Tucker, the subject proper of this sketch, 
was born September 7, 1839, in Amwell township, 
Washington county, and obtained his early edu- 
cation at the same school-house his father had at- 
tended. Mr. Tucker has ever been a zealous 
member of the Presbyterian Church, and in polit- 
ical opinion he is a Republican. His farm com- 
prises 200 acres of land. 

William M. Tucker (an elder brother of James) 
was born in Amwell township, Washington county, 
August 14, 1836, and received his education at the 
same school-house which his father had attended 
in his boyhood days. On October 18, 1860, Will- 
iam M. Tucker was married to Sarah, daughter of 
Thomas Weir, and they then settled on the home 
farm where they yet reside. Their children are 
Thomas Weir (married to Mrs. Mattie Crosgray 
Thomas), John G., Ettie F. and William C. He 
is an active worker in the Republican party, and 
has been school director twenty-six years in suc- 
cession. He is a member of the Presbyterian 
Church at Upper Ten-Mile. 



BENJAMIN F. JEFFRIES. The well- 
known family, of which this gentleman 
is an honored member, have for many 
years been closely identified with the his- 
tory and progress of West Pike Run township. 



Joseph J. Jeffries was born of Irish parents in 
1772, in Chester county, Penn., and iu 1788 pur- 
chased the old farm in West Pike Run township, 
Washington county. In 1796 he married Betsey 
Robison, who was born in 1781 in Loudoun county, 
Va. , and the young couple soon thereafter moved 
to the farm he had purchased. The place con- 
tained about two hundred acres of land, and here , 
he carried on a profitable business in farming and 
stock raising. Joseph J. Jeffries died April 9, 
1854, having been preceded by his wife June 16, 
1833. The children born to them were as follows: 
Amor, John, Plessie, Mary, Benjamin and Job, 
all now deceased except the last named, who is 
now living in Lemont Furnace, Fayette county. 

Amor Jeffries was born March 21, 1803, on the 
home farm in West Pike Run township, Washing- 
ton county, was educated at the subscription 
schools of the neighborhood, and learned the trade 
of wool carder, which he followed during early 
life, afterward devoting his attention to milling 
and agricultural pursuits. On April 6, 1828, he 
was united in marriage with Sarah Gregg, a na- 
tive of Washington county, born September 8, 
1805. By this union were born the following chil- 
dren: Eliza, wife of Henry Gregg, a farmer of 
Greene county, Penn. ; Joseph, landlord of a hotel 
at Centreville, Washington Co., Penn.; Anderson; 
Benjamin F. ; Elizabeth, died February 18, 1875; 
Jacob, died May 16, 1883; John, died March 16, 
1855; George W. , died December 25, 1870; James 
J., died October 18, 1874; Eleanor, died October 
20, 1876, and Jackman, died Jauuary 24, 1844. 
The father of these children was fond of literary 
pursuits, and in political opinion voted with the 
Democratic party. He died June 15, 1S85, having 
been preceded by his wife June 9, 1880. 

Benjamin F. Jeffries was born October 22, 1841, 
on the home place in West Pike Run township, 
Washington county, and attended the common 
schools of the home neighborhood. On August 
26, 1875, he was united in marriage with Anna 
Pepper, who was born in 1846, in East Pike Run 
township, a daughter of William and Harriet (Nan- 
kivel) Pepper, natives of England, the former born 
in 1787, the latter in 1797. William Pepper, who 
was a butcher and farmer, immigrated to Pennsyl- 
vania many years ago, settling permanently on a 
farm in Washington county. He was an ardent 
supporter of the Democratic party, and held vari- 
ous local offices; he was also prominently identi- 
fied with the religious and educational interests of 
his locality. Mr. and Mrs. Pepper reared a fam- 
ily of seven children, namely: William, an agri- 
culturist of East Bethlehem township; Mary, wife 
of Alexander Moffitt, a resident of Washington, D. 
C. ; Thomas; Anna, Mrs. Jeffries; James, John C. and 
Elizabeth, of whom the last three are now deceased. 
The father died October 9, 1879, having been 



1284 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 






preceded by the mother March 7, 1877. Both were 
members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. 
To the union of Benjamin F. and Anna (Pep- 
per) Jeffries have come four children, as follows: 
Mary E., born March 8, 1878, in Jefferson town- 
ship, Greene county; Annie P., born December 9, 
1879, in West Pike Run township, this county; 
Hattieaud Pollie (twins), born February 14, 1885, 
in West Pike Run township, all in Pennsylvania. 
Mr. Jeffries is identified with the Democratic 
party, and has served as school director for several 
'years. In religious faith he is a member of the 
M. E. Church, and is superintendent of the Sab- 
bath school. He owns a well-cultivated farm, 
which contains eighty-two acres of prime land. 




ARRY H. BROWNLEE was born January 
28, 1867, in Hopewell township, Washing- 
ton Co., Penn., a representative of a prom- 
inent pioneer family of Scottish descent. 
Archibald Brownlee was a native of Scot- 
land, and there married a Miss Hamilton, who bore 
him children as follows: James, William, John, 
Archibald, Thomas, Jane (Mrs. John Allison), and 
Hugh (deceased while on the ocean). Mr. Brown- 
lee came to America in 1705, and first settled in 
Lancaster county, Penn. In 1775 he moved to 
Washington county, and purchased a farm in 
Canton township, where he passed the remainder 
of his life. 

James Brownlee, eldest son of Archibald, in 
early life learned the trade of a millwright, which 
vocation he followed some years. He was married 
to Jane Lemon, daughter of pioneers of Washing- 
ton county, but a native of Ireland. The young 
couple began married life on a farm in Canton 
township, where the following children were born 
and reared: John, Archibald, James, Hugh, Eliza- 
beth, William, Thomas, Samuel, Joseph, Jane and 
David. Mr. Brownlee was a Whig, and in religion 
was a ruling elder in the Seceder Church at North 
Buffalo. 

Archibald Brownlee (grandfather of subject) was 
born February 28, 1779, three miles west of Wash- 
ington, in Canton township, Washington Co., Penn., 
and in early life was married to Mary Clark, of 
Washington county, who bore him children as fol- 
lows: James, Joseph, John, Clark, Samuel, Eliza- 
beth and Jane. 

John Brownlee (father of subject) was born in 
1807, in Chartiers township, Washington Co., 
Penn., and passed his boyhood days at bis birth- 
place. His parents afterward removed to Buffalo 
township, same county, where he lived until forty 
years of age. He was then married to Sarah 
Logan, and removed to a farm about two and one- 
half miles south of West Middletown, in Hopewell 
township. Six children were born to him, namely: 



Newton (deceased in youth), Jennie (wife of Dr. J. 
N. Bemis, of West Middletown), Alice (deceased), 
Leamon J., Frank S. and Harry H. Mr. 
Brownlee had but a limited literary education, but 
he possessed excellent judgment and became a 
prosperous business man. He was of a retiring but 
social disposition, and in religion was a devout 
member of the United Presbyterian Church at 
West Middletown. In politics he was a Republican. 
He never needed a physician's service. He died 
January 31, 1892, and his widow now resides in 
West Middletown. 

Harry H. Brownlee received his early education 
at the district school in Hopewell township, this 
county, and in March, 1886, left home, and en- 
gaged in the general hardware business with T. 
M. Patterson at Burgettstown, Washington county. 
In January, 1887, he sold out, and entered the 
furniture business, in September, 1889, forming a 
partnership with William Barr, of Buffalo town- 
ship. They then came to their present place of 
business, in Claysville, where they occupy a three- 
story building, which is crowded with goods; they 
also do a general undertaking business, having all 
the necessary facilities for that line. On June 22, 
1889, Mr. Brownlee was married to Ida, daughter 
of David Cummings, formerly a resident of Hope- 
well township, this county, but now living in Har- 
rison county, Ohio. In politics Mr. Brownlee is 
an active Republican, and in religion he is a mem- 
ber of the United Presbyterian Church at Clays- 
ville. 



THOMAS S. BAILEY was born June 8, 1836, 
in Fallowfield township, Washington Co., 
Penn., a son of John Bailey, who was also a 
native of Fallowfield township, having been 
born on the home place in 1785. 
John Bailey was trained from early childhood to 
agricultural duties, and made farming his life 
work. On arriving at maturity he was married to 
Margaret Scott, also a native of Fallowfield town- 
ship, and ten children were born to their marriage: 
Cynthia, Sarah, Isaac, Noah and one unnamed, all 
five of whom died in infancy, those yet living being 
Mary, wife of George Bane, a farmer of Greene 
county, Penn. ; Nancy, wife of John Bell, a 
farmer living near Monongahela City; James, an 
agriculturist of East Pike Run township; John, 
living in East Bethlehem township, and Thomas 
S. , whose name opens this sketch. The father 
was a firm supporter of the Republican party. He 
died in 1870, at the age of eighty-five years; his 
wife passed awav in 1809. She was a member 
of the M. E. Church. 

Thomas S. Bailey passed his youth on the home 
place, where he received but limited literary oppor- 
tunities, his whole life having been devoted to agri- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1285 



cultural pursuits. In 1874 be was united in mar- 
riage with Sarah J. Elliott, who was born in 18-47, 
in East Bethlehem township, Washington Co., 
Penn. She is a daughter of Samuel and Susanna 
(Bane) 'Elliott, who were the parents of nine chil- 
dren, viz. : Sebastian, a farmer of East Bethlehem 
township; Joseph, a farmer; Margaret, wife of 
John Martin; Emma; Sarah J., wife of Thomas 
S. Bailey; William, a blacksmith, of Carmichael's, 
Greene county; Oliver K. ; Lizzie, and Martha. 
The father was a native of East Bethlehem town- 
ship, this county, where he followed farming and 
veterinary work. Politically, he was an independ- 
ent Republican, but devoted most of his time to 
personal matters. He died on the home place 
in 1858, and in 1877 Mrs. Elliott (who was a native 
of eastern Virginia, and came with her parents to 
Washington county in early childhood) was laid 
by the side of her husband. Both were members 
of the M. E. Church. Mr. and Mrs. Bailey re- 
side on a farm of fifty-five acres, the condition of 
which gives evidence of the taste and care of 
the present owners. In religion they are identi- 
fied with the M. E. Church. 



D' 



, ANIEL DAY. The Day family is old and 
well known in Washington county. It is 
well deserving of the space devoted to its 
history in this work, and no member is 
more worthy of mention than he whose name 
heads this sketch. Daniel Day was born May 7, 
1813, a son of Calvin Day, one of the pioneers of 
Washington county. The father came from New 
Jersey, locating in Morris township, Washington 
county, prior to 1800. His death ocurred in July, 
1823. Daniel Day spent his boyhood days on his 
father's farm, and upon entering life for himself 
he chose agriculture as his vocation. He resided 
for forty years prior to his death upon the place 
now owned by his widow, which is located about 
two miles west of Sparta, in Morris township, and 
is known as the " Hoagland farm." Mr. Day 
was a truly representative man, public-spirited and 
admired for his sterling worth. He voted with 
the Republican party, though he was never an 
active politician. Mr. Day was twice married, 
first on October 17, 1844, to Miss Eunice Patter- 
son, a daughter of Robert Patterson, of Morris 
township. She was born March 11, 1817, and 
died January 6, 1856; no children were born to 
them. He was married, a second time, on May 
28, 1857, to Miss Nancy Cooper, who was the 
seventh in a family of ten children born to John 
and Martha (Atkinson) Cooper. 

John Cooper was born January 11, 1786, in New 
Jersey, and on April 6, 1809, was married to 
Martha Atkinson, who was born September 4, 
1789; she died December 28, 1859, and was fol- 



lowed to the grave by her husband September 15, 
1876. The following is a brief record of their 
children: Elizabeth was born March 2, 1810, and 
April 22, 1830, was married to William Patterson 
(she died March 19, 1892); Selina, born June 28, 
1812, was married May 17, 1838, to William Atkin- 
son, and died July 26, 1873; Mary was born June 

15, 1814, and was married November 11, 1847, to 
Thomas McNees; Ephraim was born July 17, 
1816, and September 19, 1S65, married Miss A. 
E. Cooper (he died July 21, 1868); Thomas H. 
was born November 2, 1818, and married, June 

16, 1842, Miss Mary AnnAuld (he died December 
28, 1883); Harriet, "born July 19, 1821, was united 
in marriage May 11, 1843, with Amos Patterson 
(she passed away August 20, 1889); Nancy, born 
February 19, 1824, is the widow of Daniel Day; 
Amelia was born October 25, 1826, and was mar- 
ried March 15, 1862, to John Simpson (she died 
April 26, 1884); Martha A., born September 29, 
1830, was united in marriage November 15, 1855, 
with William Elliott Craft (she died December 2, 
1860); Sarah Jane, born March 29, 1833, was mar- 
ried March 8, 1859, to Sylvester Cary. 

Daniel Day died May 26, 1885, leaving no chil- 
dren. His widow, a most estimable lady, is yet 
residing on the old homestead. 



fl( LEXANDER McCALMONT, a prosperous 

f \\ and representative citizen of West Middle- 

lp^\ town, Washington county, is descended 

II from one of the old pioneer families of his 

i native State. 

John McCalmont, the father of subject, was born 
in 1780, in Cumberland county, Penn., on the farm 
of his father, who was also a native-born Pennsyl- 
vanian. John passed his early life on the home 
farm, receiving a common-school education, and 
afterward learning the trade of blacksmith, and 
when a young man was married to Mary, daughter 
of John Proudfit, of York county, Penn. In 1805 
the young couple came to Washington county, 
first settling in Smith township, and afterward 
moving to Mt. Pleasant township, where a home 
was made. The following children were born to 
their union: James (who died in 1891), Nancy 
(who died in 1833), Polly (wife of John Henderson), 
David (deceased), Eliza (Mrs. Samuel Moore), 
John (residing in Mt. Pleasant township), Alex- 
ander (mentioned below), William (deceased) and 
Samuel. In politics the father was first a Whig, 
afterward a Republican, and was actively interested 
in the success of his party. In religious faith he 
was a member of the Presbyterian Church several 
years, and then united with the Seceders, finally 
joining with the United Presbyterians. He fol- 
lowed his trade in connection with farming all his 
life, and was an energetic and enterprising citizen. 



1286 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



His first wife dying in 1840, he was afterward mar- 
ried to a Mrs. Moore, who bore him no children. 
He died in October, 1861, in Mt. Pleasant town- 
ship. 

Alexander McCalmont (whose name opens these 
lines) was bom March 28, 1821. in Mt. Pleasant 
township, this county, where his boyhood was 
passed in attending the county schools. On Feb- 
ruary 28, 1849, he was married to Mary, daughter 
of Samuel Allison, a native of Beaver county, 
Penn., born August 26, 1829; she went when a 
child with her parents to West Virginia. After 
marriage the young people settled on the home 
place in Mt. Pleasant township, where they have 
since resided, and chiUlren have been born to them 
as follows: Mary (wife of Stewart White), John 
(married to a Miss Glass), Agnes (Mrs. B. Lindsey), 
Cora (wife of William Connor), Emma (married to 
Jauies Manson), Samuel (married to Elizabeth 
McCarrell), James (married to a Miss Farrow), 
Ida (Mrs. William McBurney), Abraham L. (mar- 
ried to Ellen Keudricks, and living in Allegheny, 
Penn. I, Lillie (wife of William Lane) and Maud 
(Mrs. E. McCabe). In 1S88 Mr. McCalmont re- 
tired from active business life, and is now residing 
in West Middletown. In politics he was formerly 
a Whig, and since the organization of the Repub- 
lican party has been an active worker in its ranks. 
In the spring of 1889 he was elected a member of 
the council of West Middletown, and was chosen 
president of same by his colleagues. He is a 
warm friend of education, and served zealously as 
school director. When but seventeen years of age 
Mr. McCalmont united with the United Presbyterian 
Church of Mt. Pleasant township, this county, 
which he has served as trustee, and with which 
his family are also connected. Mr. McCalmont 
still retains his farm in Mt. Pleasant township. It 
consists of 266 acres, and is one of the finest prop- 
erties of the kind in the county. He was at one 
time extensively engaged in the sheep industry, 
raising fine Spanish Merinos. 



pj, ICHA.RD HAWKINS STULL. This gen- 
L/' tleman is of German descent, his grand- 



r V. father, John Stull. having emigrated from 
IJ —*■ his native land in an early day. John and 
v Elizabeth Stull settled on the tract of land 

in East Bethlehem township, a portion of which is 
yet in the possession of their descendants, and 
there reared the following children: John, Martin, 
Abraham, Andrew, Mrs. Elizabeth Bowser, Mrs. 
Mary Horner, Philip, Mrs. Barbara Hupp, and 
Isaac. 

Isaac Stull was born in 1807, in the old log 
house which his father had erected on the farm in 
East Bethlehem township, Washington Co., Penn. 
He attended the subscription schools, and in early 



manhood was married to Matilda, daughter of 
Richard Hawkins, a native of Greene county, 
Penn. The children of Isaac and Matilda Stull 
were as follows: Joseph, Mrs. Lizzie Overholt, 
John (a resident of Iowa City, Iowa), Richard 
Hawkins, Jackson C. (living on a farm in East 
Bethlehem township), James (deceased), and Abra- 
ham and Thomas (twins) (the latter of whom is an 
eminent physician living in Grant county, Wis |. 
Richard Hawkins Stull was born August 9, 1842, 
on the place in East Bethlehem township now 
owned by G. G. Gayman, and soon after his birth 
the parents moved to the farm in East Bethlehem 
township, which he yet owns. In October, 1886, 
he was united in marriage with Maggie, daughter 
of Samuel Lewis, and they have one son, Samuel. 
The home place contains 126 acres of valuable 
land, upon which Mr. Stull conducts a general 
farming business, and also gives special attention 
to the breeding of Harnbletonian and Clay horses, 
and his stock has taken many premiums at county 
fairs. Politically he is a stanch supporter of the 
Republican party, and cast his first vote for Presi- 
dent Lincoln. 



I/AMES P. HICKMAN was born February 26, 
. I 1839, on the old homestead in Cecil township, 
(( J j this county. He is a prosperous stock raiser 
and farmer, and is descended from a pioneer 
family of Pennsylvania. His grandfather, Peter 
Hickman, a native of Lancaster county, Penn. , 
married Abigail Fawcett, and after marriage they 
settled in South Fayette township, Allegheny 
county, many years ago, enduring all the priva- 
tions and dangers inseparable from frontier life. 
He was a Whig, and he and his wife were mem- 
bers of the Presbyterian Church. They both died 
on the old farm. Their children were: Joseph, 
Moses, Abigail, John, Elizabeth, Ann, Steward, 
Peter, Daniel and Benjamin. 

Benjamin Hickman was born June 8, 1801, in 
South Fayette township, Allegheny Co., Penn., 
where he grew to manhood. He married Nancy 
Jordan, who was born in 1811, also a native of 
South. Fayette township. The young people set- 
tled on a farm in Cecil township, and eight chil- 
dren were born to them, of whom four are yet liv- 
ing, viz. : John S. (residing on the home place), 
Moses (living in Cecil township), James P. (whose 
sketch follows) and Mary Jane (wife of John Neal, 
of Canonsburg). The parents were members of 
the Bethany Presbyterian Church in Allegheny 
county, Penn. The father died in the spring of 
1S81, and in August, 1890, the mother passed 
away. He was a Whig, and a self-made man, who 
was very enterprising. 

James P. Hickman was reared on the home farm 
in Cecil township, and educated in the schools 




w 



^^W /°rr4eJU>7^a^-. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1289 



of the neighborhood. On February 27, 1873, he 
married Miss Viola Jane, daughter of Arthur J. 
and Elizabeth (Middleswath) Hopper. Mr. and 
Mrs. Hickman began married life on a farm of 190 
acres in Peters township, this county, but in 1880 
they moved to a farm in Cecil township, having 
purchased the Park homestead, containing 190 
acres and adjoining the home farm of the Hickman 
family. Since locating on this farm, Mr. Hick- 
man has made various improvements and dealt 
largely in stock, making a specialty of sheep rais- 
ing. In politics be is a Republican, and has 
served faithfully two years as supervisor. Though 
not a member of a church, he has been treasurer 
and trustee of the Centre Presbyterian Church. 
Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. 
Hickman: Elizabeth Alcinda, William Arthur and 
James C. 

Arthur J. Hopper, father of Mrs. Hickman, was 
born November 15, 1816, in Lancaster county, 
Penn. His father, Samuel Hopper, was born in 
Ireland, and came to America when a youth. He 
settled in Lancaster county, Penn., and there mar- 
ried Elizabeth Barclay. In 1817 they came to 
Allegheny county, settling in Fayette township, 
and purchased a farm with but ten acres improved. 
Their children were: Robert, Andrew, Samuel, 
Arthur J., John, James and Nora (Mrs. Alexander 
Fitch), Elizabeth (Mrs. Thomas Campbell), Mary 
A. (Mrs. James Wallace). He was a Whig and 
later a Republican, and was among the organizers 
of the United Presbyterian Church. They came 
over the mountains in a two-horse wagon, and 
when they arrived exchanged the wagon in part 
payment for a farm. The youth of Arthur J. 
Hopper was spent on the home place, and he was 
educated at the common schools. On July 22, 1N41, 
he married Elizabeth Middleswath, of Allegheny 
county. Their children were: John O, Samuel 
N., Elizabeth A. and Viola J. Mrs. Hopper died 
September 5, 1891. Mr. Hopper settled in Alle- 
gheny county, and there continued farming until 
1847, when he came to Peters township, remaining 
there until 1856, when he came to his present resi- 
dence. He is a Republican ; a member of the U. 
P. Church; is a self-made man, very enterprising. 



'ARSON. The family of this name, with which 
Elgy S. and John A. Carson are more im- 
mediately connected, have for many years 
been prominently associated with the lead- 
ing citizens of Washington county. 

Thomas Carson was born in eastern Pennsyl- 
vania, # and, coming to Washington county many 
years ago, was married to Mary Gibson, a native 
of Kentucky. They settled on the farm in Fallow- 
field township which is yet owned by their de- 



scendants, and here he carried on agriculture and 
followed shoemaking, also serving as justice of the 
peace. At one time being pursued by Indians, 
he traveled seventy-five miles in one day, carrying 
his rifle, and thus escaped. He died in 1814, 
leaving the following children: James, who moved 
to Ohio; Joseph, who first located in Ohio, then 
moved to Indiana; Thomas G. ; William, married 
to Mary Burgess, and who lived on the old home- 
stead; James S. ; John B.; Mary, Mrs. Grable; 
Elizabeth, wife of James Young; Ann, Mrs. Gra- 
ble; and Charlotte, wife of John Carson. 

Parker Carson, son of Thomas G. and Elizabeth 
Carson, was born in 1819, in Fallowtield township, 
Washington county. In 1844 he selected a life 
companion in the person of Margaret Carson, a 
native of this county, and the young people moved 
to Indiana. They resided on a farm in that State 
for six years, then returned to Washington county, 
and in 1852 bought and settled upon 188 acres of 
land in Fallowtield township. They were the 
parents of the following named seven children: 
Sarah E. ; Margaret A.; Melissa; Elgy S. ; John 
A. ; Thomas G., and Mary J. Of this family Elgy 
S., John A. and Mary J. are yet living. The 
father devoted his attention wholly to agricultural 
pursuits, and served his township in various local 
offices. He died in 1878, having been preceded 
to the grave by his wife in 1874. 

Elgy S. Carson was born July 9, 1852, on the 
home farm in Fallowtield township, Washington 
Co., Penn. He resided with his parents during 
his minority, and November 20, 1873, was mar- 
ried to Ruth, daughter of Joseph Morton, a well- 
known agriculturist of Washington county. This 
marriage has been blessed with the following chil- 
dren: Margaret (deceased), Laura A., Elgy H., 
Cecelia R., Joella, Rollo H. and Anna B., all yet 
living with their parents. Mr. Carson owns 189 
acres of land, all of which is well cultivated, and 
here he raises sheep and cattle; he also buys and 
sells a large amount of live stock. In politics he 
affiliates with the Democratic party, and has filled 
many local offices. In religious faith he is an ad- 
herent of the Old-school Baptist Church. 

John A. Carson, son of Parker and Margaret 
Carson, was born in 1855, in Fallowfield township, 
Washington Co., Penn. In 1880 he was united 
in marriage with Lizzie May, daughter of John 
S. Williams, a native of Pennsylvania, and to this 
union there have been born five sons and two 
daughters, as follows: Nora W., Carl C, Oscar 
P., Carrie E., Harvey S. (deceased), John R., 
and Jo Reese. Mr. Carson is now serving as 
chairman of the Democratic convention of Fal- 
lowfield township, has filled many other political 
offices, and for six years has been clerk of the town- 
ship. He is a stockholder of the Maple Creek 
cemetery, of which he has always been secretary. 



1290 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



and is now holding the position of treasurer. His 
farm contains 108 acres, lying seven miles south of 
Monongahela, and three and one-half miles from 
Charleroi. Lover postoffice is situated half a 
mile from the farm. 



JAMES TAGGART (deceased). Among the 
early pioneers to whom the citizens of Wash- 
ington county owe a lasting debt of gratitude, 
is the familiar name of Taggart. This 
prominent family has for many years been 
identified with the best interests of the county, and 
took an active part in the hardships of frontier life. 
The earliest representatives of the name were na- 
tives of Ireland, from which country one James Tag- 
gart emigrated to America in 1783, and coming to 
Washington county, Penn., bought a tract of land 
called "Chestnut," containing 260 acres, situated 
on the headwaters of Chartiers creek. In L83I 
he bought a farm of 405 acres, in Licking county, 
Ohio. He also bought a farm in Tuscarawas 
county, Ohio. He was united in marriage with 
Mary Ferguson, who bore him seven children, 
namely: John, James, Samuel, Robert, Jane, Eliza- 
beth and Mary, all of whom are now deceased, 
leaving numerous descendants, who are scattered 
throughout the United States. The parents died 
in Washington county. 

James Taggart, son of James and Mary (Fer- 
guson) Taggart, was born on the farm in Wash- 
ington county, where his life was passed. He fol- 
lowed general farming and raised a large number 
of sheep. He was united in marriage with Martha 
Fergus, who bore him ten children, namely: 
Thomas, James, Samuel, William, John, Margaret, 
Sarah, Rebecca, Martha and Mary, all now de- 
ceased except Samuel, who lives near Washington, 
Penn. The father of this family was an elder in 
Upper Buffalo Congregation for twenty-four years. 
He died July 28, 1863. 

James Taggart, sou of James and Martha (Fer- 
gus) Taggart, was born November 10, 1823, in 
Canton township, on the old homestead where his 
ancestors had first settled on their arrival in Penn- 
sylvania. He passed his boyhood in the usual 
manner of a farmer lad, and received his education 
at the Wotring Academy, which was established 
about 1818, by Judge Wotring. When a young 
man James Taggart was married to Jane Ander- 
son, of Cross Creek township, this county, a 
daughter of Dr. Henry A. Anderson. To this 
union was born one child, who died in infancy, 
followed two months later by the mother. On 
October 20, 1857, Mr. Taggart was married to his 
second wife, Margaret A., a daughter of James 
and Ann (Cockins) McBride. They were residents 
of Canton township, Washington county, where a 
son, Vincent, is engaged in agricultural pursuits. 



To the union of James and Margaret (McBride) 
Taggart children were born as follows: James 
M. (married to Miss Jennie Maxwell), Annie F. 
(wife of F. W. Donaldson), Archibald A. (married 
to Ella W. McCarrell), Urania Bell and Charles 
Leslie, both of whom still reside with their mother 
on the old homestead. Mr. Taggart voted with 
the Democratic party before the Civil war, and in 
1862 joined the ranks of the Republican party, of 
which he became a trusted and valued member, 
and served one term as county auditor. In religious 
faith he was a member and trustee of the Buffalo 
Presbyterian Church, and led the choir for many 
years. He was called over the river February Tl, 
1892, leaving many friends to mourn his death, who 
are yet waiting the hour when they shall meet on 
the other side. 



DR. BEBOUT, a well-known farmer and 
I stock raiser of Cecil township, was born 
' September 3, 1832, on the old homestead 
in North Strabane township, Washington 
Co., Penn. He is a sou of Peter Bebout, and 
grandson of John. 

John Bebout was born June 20, 1752, in Hol- 
land, and when a young man sailed to America. 
He first located in New Jersey and was there mar- 
ried to Mary Agnew.who was born October 23, 1757. 
The young people resided in Sussex county, N. 
J., until 1801, when they moved overland to Wash- 
ington county, Penn., there making a permanent 
home. They were the parents of nine children, viz. : 
William, born April 21, 1778 (lived in Cross Creek 
township); Peter, born February 20, 1780; Sarah 
B., born February 28, 1782, wife of Joseph Mc- 
Lain, Mercer county, Penn. ; John, born March 21, 
1789, resided in Carroll county, Ohio; Mary, born 
June 23, 1791 (Mrs. Harmon Haines, of North 
Strabane township); Israel, born August 12, 
1793 (a farmer); Susan, born December 30, 1796 
(Mrs. Long, who first settled in Cecil township, 
this county, then moved to Ohio); Betsey, born 
December 4, 1798 (wife of Isaac Weaver, of 
Chartiers township), and Ira, born February 3, 
1800 (deceased in 1891, first lived in North Stra- 
bane township, this county, thence moved to 
Muskingum county, Ohio). All of this family are 
now deceased. The father died in 1836, in Mercer 
county, Penn., his wife having preceded him 
several years. 

Peter Bebont was born ou Staten Island, N. J., 
and when twenty years of age took a trip on foot 
to Washington county, Penn., returning to New 
Jersey the same fall. In 1S01 he and his parents 
moved to Washington county, locating in North 
Strabane township, on Chartiers creek, where 
Peter Bebout was married to Isabella Cooper, a 
native of Columbiana county, Ohio. The young 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1291 



couple settled on the old homestead in North 
Strabane township, and children were born to 
them as follows; Mary (deceased wife of William 
Hays), Susan (married to William Bebout, of 
Washington, Penn.), Ira (living in Monongahela 
City), Margaret (deceased wife of Cephas Cochran), 
D. It. (whose name opens this sketch), Isabelle 
(wife of John Crouch, of North Strabane township), 
Joshua (who moved to Missouri), Stephen (de- 
ceased in 1872, at Canonsburg I, Martha Jane 
(deceased at the age of two years), one who died 
in infancy, Caroline (Mrs. Joseph Manes, living on 
the old homestead) and Herman (a stock dealer, 
residing in Canonsburg, Penn.). The parents 
were members of the Hill Presbyterian Church. 
The father of this family died about 1861 in North 
Strabane township, and was followed by the mother 
in 1889. 

D. R. Bebout attended the district schools of 
North Strabane township, and then learned the 
carpenter's trade, which he followed some years. 
He was appointed agent of the Chartiers Valley 
Railroad, at Canonsburg, before it was completed. 
On March 10, 1859, he was married to Dorothea, 
daughter of James and Katie ( Whitely) McMurray. 
James McMurray was a native of Ireland, aud 
coining to America married and settled perma- 
nently in Washington county, Penn. 

Mr. and Mrs. Bebout remained in Chartiers 
township until 1878, when they bought and moved 
upon the farm in Cecil township where they are 
now living. It contains eighty acres of well-im- 
proved land, upon which he has erect.ed good 
buildings and operates three good oil wells, in 
addition to the usual farm duties. Politically he 
votes with the Democratic party, but devotes the 
greater part of his time to private interests. In 
religion he and his wife are members of the First 
Presbyterian Church at Canonsburg. Their chil- 
dren are: James, an elder in the First Presby- 
terian Church at Canonsburg, living at home; 
Catherine, wife of S. W. McNary, of Cecil town- 
ship; Mary Belle; Frank, married, a clerk in a 
furniture store in Monongahela City; Martha Jane, 
wife of William McCorkle, of Somerset township; 
and Elizabeth, attending school at Slippery Rock, 
Pennsylvania. 




OYD McNARY, one of the popular young 
citizens of North Strabane township, is a 
son of Samuel McNary, who was born 
August 16, 1825, in Nottingham township, 
Washington Co., Penn., and passed his boyhood 
on the farm, receiving a common-school education. 
He was married to Margaret McClure, who was 
born July 7, 1828, and seven children were born 
to their union, as follows: James S., born October 
27, 1851; David, born June 23, 1853, died Octo- 



ber 28, 1875; William Boyd, born February 17, 
1856; Joseph R., born August 13, 1858; Mary, 
bora August 10, 1860, died April 19, 1876; Mattie, 
born November 23, 1862, married, July 3, 1884, 
W. F. Wiskeman, and died October 2, 1888; and 
Clark J., born June 20, 1865. Samuel McNary 
was an enterprising and progressive citizen and 
served in various township offices, tilling the posi- 
tion of school director fifteen years. He was a 
lifelong member of the TJ. P. Church, and died 
February 10, 1883. His widow passed away 
March 5, 1886. 

Boyd McNary was born February 17, 1856, on 
the home farm, and followed the usual routine of 
a farmer boy, but received a thorough common- 
school education. On October 22, 1885, he was 
united in marriage with Jennie M. Herron.who was 
born January 8, 1861, daughter of Robert and 
Rachel (Berry) Herron. Robert Herron was a son 
of Joseph Herron, whose father, James, was a 
native of Ireland. James Herron emigrated to 
America in the latter part of the eighteenth cent- 
ury, and settled in North Strabane township, this 
county, on the farm now owned by his descendants. 
When a young man he was married to Rachel 
Reed, a native of Ohio, and the following children 
were born to their union: Charles, John, William, 
James, Robert, John, Joseph, Thomas aud Rachel. 
In politics Mr. Herron was a Democrat, and in 
religion a devout member of the Seceder Church. 
Joseph Herron, son of James, was born January 
2, 1797, on his father's farm in North Strabane 
township, and was educated in the country schools. 
On January 3, 1824, he married Margaret Hast- 
ings, of Somerset township, this county, and they 
settled on the home place, where children were 
born as follows: Rachel, Robert, James, John, 
Sarah, Joseph, Margaret and Elizabeth M. The 
father was an active worker in the Democratic 
party, and in religious connection supported the 
Seceder Church. He died January 25, 1852, his 
wife being laid beside him March 18, 1854, and 
both rest in the U. P. cemetery at Pigeon Creek. 
Robert Herron was born September 30, 1826, on 
the farm where his brother James is now living. 
On May 13, 1858, he was united in marriage with 
Rachel E., daughter of John Berry, who bore him 
children as follows: William G., Margaret J. (Mrs. 
W. B. McNary), Lizzie R. (Mrs. M. H. Munce), 
Anna M. (Mrs. W. H. McNary), Sadie T. and 
Robert W. Mr. Herron has always been a Demo- 
crat and has served his party in various ways. He 
and his family are members of the U. P. Church 
at Mt. Prospect. 

After marriage Mr. and Mrs. McNary settled on 
the old farm, where three children were born, as 
follows: Robert B., September 25, 1886; Mary R., 
March 20, 1889, and Carrie M., November 17, 1890. 
Boyd McNary is one of the successful farmers in 



1292 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



North Strabane township. He and his two 
brothers, Joseph and Clark, own 134 acres of good 
land. He has a considerable influence in politics, 
and votes the Republican ticket. He and his wife 
are members of the U. P. Church. 



IfAMES HERRON. a leading business man of 
the village of California, is descended from 
If" J Hibernian ancestors, his grandfather, James 
~—^ Herron, having been a native of Ireland, in 
which country he grew to manhood and was 
married. The family finally came to America, lo- 
cating in Greensburgh, Westmoreland Co., Penn., 
where the grandparents died, leaving two sons, 
Nelson and John. 

John Herron, son of the pioneer James, was 
born on the farm in Westmoreland county, Penn., 
there received his early education, and learned the 
carpenter's trade. When a young man he moved 
to Allegheny county, Penn., where he met and 
married Elizabeth, daughter of Francis and Ellen 
(Vandervort) Cooley, who were natives of New 
York. Mr. and Mrs. Cooley were the parents of 
the following children: Joseph, Robert, William, 
John, Francis, Samuel, Harrison, Elizabeth and 
Mary. The father of this family followed farming 
near New York City for several years, afterward 
moving to a place in Washington county, Penn., 
and finally settling on a farm in Allegheny county, 
near Pittsburgh, where he died. He was original- 
ly a Democrat, but afterward became a member of 
the Whig party, and in religion was connected 
with the English Lutheran Church. John and 
Elizabeth (Cooley) Herron passed their married 
life in Allegheny county, and he followed the car- 
penter's trade in Pittsburgh. They had two sons, 
Francis C, a farmer, and postmaster at Oklahoma, 
and James. John Herron died in 1828, and was 
followed to the grave by his widow in 1839. 

James Herron, son of John and Elizabeth 
(Cooley) Herron, was born August 8, 1S25, in Al- 
legheny county, Penn., and received his early edu- 
cation at the subscription and public schools, of 
the vicinity. Being left an orphan, he had to 
commence life for himself at an early age, and 
when sixteen years of age was apprenticed to 
Thomas McKee, a blacksmith of Pittsburgh, Penn., 
with whom he remained about ten years. He then 
purchased the shop, and conducted the business 
for five years, when he entered the employ of the 
Lippincott Manufacturing Company. In 1859 he 
purchased an interest in the store of his brother- 
in-law, William F. Barclay, at Coal Bluff, this 
county. Mr. Herron served as postmaster of that 
place during the Civil war, but, resigning this 
position in June, 1805, opened his present general 
merchandise store in California, which is now one 
of the oldest and most prosperous establishments 



in the village. Politically he has been a Repub- 
lican, and recently he became a Prohibitionist; in 
religion he is a member of the Cumberland Presby- 
terian Church. On May 28, 1846, James Herron 
was united in marriage with Hannah M., daughter 
of James and Rachel (McVay) Barclay, of Finley- 
ville, Washington Co., Penn. They have had no 
children, but adopted a little girl, and reared her 
as their own; she is now the wife of John H. Wil- 
kins, to whom she has borne three sons, viz. : Fred 
B., James H. and Frank S. 



I OHN C. McBRlDE. one of the most progress- 
1 ive, influential and successful citizens of 
^ J Robinson township, is descended from pio- 
^^ neer ancestors of Washington county. 

James McBride (the grandfather) left the 
Emerald Isle in early manhood, and coming to 
Washington count y. Penn., settled near Miller's 
run, on some land which legally belonged to 
George Washington. When the latter discovered 
that his rights were endangered, he made known 
his claims to the property, and the immigrants 
were forced to evacuate that locality. They then 
moved to a tract of 240 acres in the northern end 
of the county, near which was erected the Associ- 
ate church of Robinson in 1832 (now the U. P. 
church), the patent for which tract of land was 
issued in 17S6, and is still in the possession of our 
subject. This tract has since been the homestead 
of the McBride family. James McBride was mar- 
ried in Washington county to Miss Sarah Sprowls, 
arid they settled on the farm in a small house 
which had been previously erected, but which was 
afterward burned by the Indians while the family 
were on a visit to their old home. Ten sons were 
born to this couple, all of whom lived to advanced 
age, namely: Francis, Nathaniel, Matthew, James, 
John, Isaac, Samuel, David, William and Alex- 
ander. The father was a Democrat, and a mem- 
ber of the Associate Church of Clinton, and was 
a member of one of three families who first formed 
the organization. 

William McBride was born in 1798 on the old 
homestead in this county, and followed farming 
from early boyhood throughout his active life. He 
was married to Martha Keys, who was born June 
11, 1805, near Bulger, this county, a daughter of 
James Keys, and the following children blessed 
their union: James, born October 8, 1832 (now 
deceased); William, born October 24, 1836; Jane 
and John C. (twins), born March 27, 1840, the 
former married to John Purdy, and living in Alle- 
gheny county, Penn. The father of this famdy 
died October 22, 1878, the mother on February 4, 
1875. Mr. McBride passed his entire life on the 
home farm, engaged in general agriculture and 
stock raising, proving an enterprising and pro- 






/U&L£_j 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1295 



gressive mau. In his political affiliations be was a 
Democrat. 

John C. McBride was married December 30, 
1874, to Elizabeth Galbreath, who was born near 
Candor, this county, a daughter of William Gal- 
breath, a native of Allegheny county, Pedn., born 
about the year 1796. His father, Samuel Gal- 
breath, was of Scotch ancestry, and was reared in 
eastern Pennsylvania. He early came to Alle- 
gheny county, where he carried on farming, an 
occupation he followed during the rest of his life. 
He married Nancy Gilmore, who bore him the fol- 
lowing children: James, Robert, Annie, Nancy, 
Elizabeth and William. Samuel Galbreath was a 
member of the Noblestown U. P. Church. Will- 
iam Galbreath was thrice married: first time to 
Margaret Bingham, who bore him one child, 
Henry P. ; his second wife was Esther Ewing, and 
by this marriage there were children as follows: 
Letticia E., Nancy G. , Isabell C. (married to 
Thomas Munn), Samuel, Margaret B. (married to 
James G. Wilson), Esther A. (married to W. S. 
Bailey) and Elizabeth. For his third wife Will- 
iam Galbreath wedded Jane Bailey, who bore him 
one child, William, and she is now living with our 
subject and wife, at the patriarchal age of ninety- 
three years. William Galbreath died August 21, 
1874. 

After their marriage John C. and Elizabeth G. Mc- 
Bride moved to a farm about three miles east of 
the old homestead, on which he has erected a fine 
dwelling house. One daughter has come to bless 
their union, Martha Keys, born June 1, 1877. 
Politically, Mr. McBride was identified with the 
Democratic party until of late years, since when 
he has been in sympathy with the Prohibition 
movement. He is a well-known, enterprising 
citizen, has filled various township offices, and has 
ever given his aid to enterprises tending to the 
good of the community at large. In religious 
faith he is a consistent member of the Robinson 
U. P. Church. 




1757. 



OBERT C. HOOTMAN is a well-known and 
successful farmer of Donegal township. 
His grandfather, Christian Hootman, was 
a native of Hessen-Darrnstadt, Germany, 
having been born there about the year 
Christian enlisted in the army when a 
young man, and was among the Hessian soldiers 
who came to America during the Revolutionary 
war, and were hired by the English government to 
fight the Colonists. 

Christian Hootman was a drummer boy, and 
upon first landing in America was delighted with 
the country, often longing for freedom, that he 
might assist the Colonists in their struggle for lib- 
erty. At the battle of Brandywine he was taken 



prisoner, and (making no effort to escape) was soon 
drumming in the Continental army under Gen. 
Washington. He served till the close of the war, 
and decided to remain in the " land of the free," 
where the galling restraints of the old country 
were unknown. In the year 1785 the yoiing man 
came to Donegal township, Washington Co., 
Penn., after a long and tedious journey over the 
mountains. He took up a " tomahawk claim '' in 
the northwest corner of Donegal township, imme- 
diately on the line then bounding Pennsylvania 
and Virginia. Here he erected a cabin home in the 
wilderness, and began to clear a piece of land upon 
which to raise corn. He was then married, and 
the following children were born to him: Henry 
and Jacob (who moved to Iowa, where they died); 
John (moved West and there died); Mary (wife of 
Adam Deeds), moved to Coshocton county, Ohio; 
Catherine (Mrs. William Shaler), who died in Don- 
egal township; David, who learned the blacksmith 
trade, and followed it on the Monongahela pike, 
where he died; Tenie (deceased wife of Samuel 
Miller), lived in Donegal township; and Christian 
(the father of our subject). The mother of these 
children died, and Mr. Hootman was afterward 
united in marriage with Susan Cavanaugh, who 
bore him no children. He continued to live on the 
same farm until his death, which occurred in the 
year 1845, after sixty years of pioneer life in 
Washington county. His second wife had also pre- 
ceded him to the grave. 

Christian Hootman was born October 12. 1800, 
in Donegal township, on the farm which is now 
owned by his son Robert. His early life was 
passed in attending to the duties of the pioneer 
farm, and his education was limited to the advan- 
tages of the subscription schools, but this was 
afterward supplemented by home instruction from 
his stepmother, who was an educated woman. He 
thus became a well-informed man. In about the 
year 1830, Christian Hootman was married to 
Sarah McBroom, who was born in 1808, daughter 
of Robert McBroom, of Brooke county, W. Va., 
but a native of Ireland. Two children were born 
to them: Nancy S. M. (Mrs. E. Buchanan, of 
Wheeling, W. Va.), and Robert C. (subject of this 
sketch). Mr. Hootman passed his entire life on 
the home place, and was a successful farmer. In 
religion he was an active member of the U. B. 
Church, to which he and his father were liberal 
contributors. Mr. Hootman died February 27, 
1874, and was followed by his widow April 22, 1891. 
Politically he was a lifelong Democrat. 

Robert C. Hootman was the only son of his 
parents, and was born November 14, 1844, on the 
home farm, where he is yet living. He was trained 
to farm work from boyhood, and received a com- 
mon-school education. On September 13, 1866, 
he was united in marriage with Maggie Yant, who 






1296 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



was born April '20, 1850, a daughter of Jacob and 
Lizzie (Wilson) Yant, and the following children 
have been born to this union: an infant daughter 
(deceased), and Luetta, Frank S., Laurence V. and 
Bruce O, all of whom are living at home. After 
his marriage, Mr. Hootman settled on the home 
farm, which has been in the possession of the 
Hootman family since it was patented, and is one 
of the most valuable pieces of farm land in Done- 
gal township. Mr. Hootman is a very systematic 
and progressive farmer, and is extensively en- 
gaged in raising sheep. Politically he is a Dem- 
ocrat, but often votes for the man he thinks best 
qualified, regardless of his party connection. 



JOHN P. SCOTT, a prosperous, popular and 
I cultured citizen of Cecil township, is a son of 
I John, and grandson of John Scott. John 
Scott (the grandfather) was born in 1777, at 
Mingo creek, Washington Co., Penn., of Scotch 
parents, and was married to Esther Phillips. In 
1800 they moved to Mt. Pleasant township, Wash- 
ington county, locating on 305 acres of land, 
which was originally a portion of the George 
Washington survey. They were members of the 
Associate Reformed Church at Robinson's Run, 
in which he was a ruling elder. He died Febru- 
ary 19, 1817, and July 19 of the same year his 
life companion was laid by his side. They were 
the parents of the following children: Hannah 
(born 1801, married to Capt. John Young, of Alle- 
gheny county, Penn. ), Esther (born 1811, wife of 
William Gribben, Allegheny county), Rachel (Mrs. 
Allen Dunn, of Pittsburgh, Penn), Elizabeth 
(born 1803, wife of John Cairus, of Pittsburgh, 
Penn.), a daughter Mary (born in 1805. died in 
early womanhood), Samuel (born 1807, died more 
than fifty years ago in Allegheny county), Jonathan 
(born 1809, moved West) and John (whose sketch 
follows). The parents were among the earliest of 
early settlers in Allegheny county. 

John Scott was born in 1813, on the home farm 
in Mt. Pleasant township, where his boyhood days 
were passed. On August 29, 1836, he was united 
in marriage to Ann White, who was born in 1X15, 
in Smith township, this county, and the young 
people settled on a farm in Mt. Pleasant township, 
where four children were born to them: Mary 
(deceased February 13, 1889, aged fifty-one years, 
seven months and fifteen days), born in 1837, was 
married in September, 1858, to R. W. Lawrence, 
of Independence township; John P., whose name 
opens this sketch; William J. (deceased March 25, 
L873), born June 25. 1811 (entered the service 
for a thirty days' call to Gettysburg), and married 
Sarah A. Douglas in 1863, settled in Cecil town- 



ship; and Samuel Wilson (died in April, 1888), 
born August 1, 1852, and married April 27, 1881, 
to Miss Anna M. May. Mr. and Mrs. John Scott 
were first members of the Associate Reformed 
Church at Robinson's Run, and in 1850 united 
with the Associate Reformed Church at Venice, 
this county. In 1858 they became members of the 
IJ. P. Church, of which Mr. Scott was elected an 
elder, but refused to serve. He died June 10, 
1887, his widow passing away January 31, 1892. 

John P. Scott was born April 17, 1839, in Mt. 
Pleasant township, and attended the common schools 
of the neighborhood. On January 1, 1861, he was 
united in marriage with Mary Ann Cook. Her 
father, Robert Cook, was born June 2, 1805, in 
Cecil township, and on April 23, 1835, made choice 
of a wife in the person of Mary Gladden, who was 
born August 15, 1798. After their marriage Mr. 
and Mrs. Cook settled on the farm now occupied 
by their daughter, Mary A. He was a farmer, 
taking an active part in the politics of the Demo- 
cratic party, and in religion was a member of the 
now United Presbyterian Church at Robinson's 
Run, afterward uniting with the church at Venice, 
this county. Mrs. Cook died July 22, 1842, leaving 
two daughters: Mary Ann (Mrs. Scott) and Anna 
E. (living in Cecil township). On February 27, 
1841, the father was married to Rebecca Glen- 
denen, who bore him one child, deceased in in- 
fancy. Mr. Cook died January 6, 1857, followed 
by his widow August 30, 1886, in her eighty-first 
year. 

John P. and Mary Ann (Cook) Scott began mar- 
ried life on the farm in Cecil township where they 
are yet living. He taught school three years in 
Mt. Pleasant and Cecil townships, having since 
been engaged in cultivating the farm, containing 
280 fertile acres. Among the man}' improvements 
which have been made may be mentioned the erec- 
tion of a good, commodious barn, 42 by 62 feet. 
Mr. Scott makes a specialty of raising Delaine 
wool Merino sheep. In politics he is a strong ad- 
herent of the Prohibition party, and has been a 
candidate for county commissioner. In religious 
faith he and his wife are members of the U. P. 
Church at Venice, in which he ia an elder, having 
been elected to that office August 28, 1864. Five 
children have gladdened the home of Mr. and Mrs. 
Scott, namely: Robert Cook, born May 17, 1862; 
Anna (married on January 1, 1890, to James R. 
White, has one child, John Lee), born September 
10, 1864; John Elmer, born March 19, 1867 
(married October 26, 1892, to Luella Bell McPeak); 
William Lawrence (graduated at Westminster, 
Penn., with class of '91, now attending the Med- 
ical Department of the University of Pennsylvan ia 
at Philadelphia), born April 7, 1870, and George 
Wilson, born July 22, 1878. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1297 



III Ml ATTHEW B. BROWN, a well-known agri- 

I \//\ culturist of Mt. Pleasant township, was 

I *( I born in 1851, in Allegheny county, Penn. 

II -* He is a sou of David Brown, whose father, 
v John Brown, was born in Lancaster county, 
Penn. John Brown was there married to Mary 
Acheson, and in 1785 the young people moved to 
Noblestowu, Allegheny county, where he followed 
the tailor's trade and conducted a hotel. He after- 
ward moved to a farm in the same county and 
reared his children. He died about 1851, his wife 
having entered the dark valley a few years before. 

David Brown was born in 1803, on the home 
farm in Allegheny county, and was trained from 
early boyhood to agricultural life. He was married 
in his native county to Rebecca Borland, remaining 
there a short time after that event. In 1847 he 
bought a partially improved farm of 339 acres in 
Mount Pleasant township, Washington Co., Penn., 
to which he moved in 1855, his wife having died 
in Allegheny county the year before. 



P 



j, OBERT H. RUSSELL (deceased) was one 
') of the leading and prosperous citizens of 
l\ Chartiers township. In business circles he 
^ stood in the front rank of prosperous and 
enterprising stockmen, in social life he was 
equally renowned for a generous, affectionate dis- 
position, and in religious faith he was a devoted and 
liberal churchman. His father, Andrew Russell, 
was born January 3, 1777, in Cecil township, this 
county, coming with his parents to Chartiers town- 
ship when about two years of age. In 1800 he 
was married to Ann McClellan, who was born in 
1784, in Mt. Pleasant township, this county, and 
after marriage began to manage the home farm. 
He was a Whig, taking an active part in the early 
political history of the county; he had a brother 
who served in the war of 1812. In religious faith 
he was first a Seceder, then joined the U. P. 
Church at Canonsburg. He died March 2, 1861, 
in his eighty-fourth year, being followed by his 
wife February 17, 1868, who had borne him chil- 
dren as follows: Jane (wife of Samuel Lee, de- 
ceased January 24, 1880); Isabelle (deceased in 
1845, wife of William McCall); James (deceased 
in January, 1890, married in 1844 to Elizabeth 
McElroy); Ann (living in New Concord, Ohio); 
Elizabeth (deceased January 10, 1868, in her six- 
ty-fifth year, married to Robert Jeffrey, of Mt. 
Pleasant township); Andrew (deceased in April, 
1891, married April 18, 1839, to Jane Miller); 
Alexander (deceased September 29, 1886, in his 
seventy-eighth year, married first to Margaret Ann 
Acheson (deceased), then to Lavina Calkins); Rob- 
ert (deceased in May, 1887; first married to Eliz- 
abeth McConaughey, then to Martha Jane Mc- 
Nary); John (living in Chartiers township, mar- 



ried to Elizabeth G. Morrison); John Russell, died 
January 16, 1893, after a brief illness; William 
(married to Margaret Thompson, who died in 1892, 
living in Chartiers township) and Nancy (deceased 
in 1849). 

Robert H. Russell was born in 1819, in Char- 
tiers township, Washington Co., Penn., being 
reared and educated in the district schools of the 
township. He was first married to Elizabeth Mc- 
Conaughey, who died within a few years. On May 
17, 1858, he made a second choice in the person 
of Martha Jane McNary, daughter of William and 
granddaughter of John McNary. John McNary 
was married to Jane Hill, and in 1784 made a per- 
manent settlement in North Strabane township, 
this county. They were both members of the Se- 
ceder Church. William H. McNary was united in 
marriage with Margaret Murray, daughter of 
George Murray, who came from Scotland in an 
early day, and was married to Mary Reed. In 
1832 he moved from North Strabane township 
to Chartiers township, where he died, being fol- 
lowed by his wife three years afterward. 

Robert H. and Martha Jane Russell began mar- 
ried life on one of the finest farms in Chartiers 
township, where his widow is still living, which he 
had purchased in 1845. Mr. Russell took pride 
and pleasure in making all possible improvements 
upon his farm, having erected a handsome brick 
dwelling and good outbuildings. He was espe- 
cially interested in raising sheep, having been one 
of the charter members of the National Delaine 
Merino Sheep Breeders' Association. In religion 
he was an earnest worker in the Chartiers United 
Presbyterian Church, having been a member of 
the Session for twenty- three years. He also served 
as elder, and always contributed to the Master's 
cause to the utmost of his ability. He passed from 
earth May 17, 1887, and his widow is yet residing 
on the old place. Many hearts were saddened by 
the loss of this honorable, generous, Christian man, 
for in this world such characters are rarely found 
and are sorely missed when called away. 

L. A. Russell, one of the most prominent busi- 
ness men of Washington county, has devoted his 
time to stock raising, making a specialty of breed- 
ing sheep, and has achieved an enviable success in 
that business. He is a representative of an old 
and honored pioneer family of this county. He is 
a son of William and grandson of Andrew Russell, 
whose father was born in 1723, in Scotland, com- 
ing to America in 1758, where he was united in 
marriage with Isabel Mays, a native of Ireland. 
They first settled near Oxford, Chester Co., Penn., 
then went to Canonsburg, and in 1782 bought the 
home farm in Chartiers township. He was a 
blacksmith, and having brought his tools from 
eastern Pennsylvania, enjoyed a great deal of cus- 
tom, having no competitor in that vocation. 



1298 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Andrew Russell was born in 1777, in Cecil town- 
ship, this county, and in 1782 came to a farm in 
Chartiers township, where he grew to manhood 
and was married to Ann McClellan. The couple 
passed their lives in their native county. Andrew 
Russell was a Whig, being an active worker in the 
party. He died in 1861, the wife and mother be- 
ing laid to rest February 17. 1868. They were 
formerly members of the Associate Reformed 
Church, then united with the United Presbyterian 
Church at Canonsburg. They were the parents of 
eleven children. 

William Russell was born October 10, 1825, in 
Chartiers township, Washington county, being the 
youngest child in his father's family. He was 
reared on the home farm, and educated in the 
subscription schools of the vicinity. In 1855 he 
was married to Margaret Jane Thompson, a na- 
tive of Mt. Pleasant township, this county. She 
is a daughter of Joseph and Margaret (Wilson) 
Thompson, who were natives of Ireland, and of 
Scotch descent. They immigrated to America at 
an early day, aud settled in Mt. Pleasant town- 
ship, where Joseph Thompson passed the rest of 
his life in agricviltural pursuits. He was actively 
interested in political questions; in religion he was 
united with the U. P. Church of Hickory, this 
county. His wife, who was a member of the 
Associate Reformed Church, died in 1847, and in 
1861 he was laid by her side. After his marriage 
William Russell opened a book store' in Canons- 
burg, this county, keeping a full line of school 
and college text-books. In 1862 he moved to a 
farm in Mt. Pleasant township, and in 1881 settled 
on the farm in Chartiers township which he now 
occupies. It consists of 135 acres of good land. 
Mr. and Mrs. Russell have had ten children, four 
of whom are now living, namely: L. A., William 
Frank (an operator at Bridgeville, Allegheny Co., 
Penn.), Mamie Bell Agnes, and Robert Lee (study- 
ing for the ministry at New Wilmington College). 
In politics William Russell is a Republican, and 
has served as supervisor and member of the school 
board. His wife died January 19, 1892. She 
was a member of the U. P. Church at Hickory, in 
which her husband was an elder, now being a mem- 
ber of the church at Houstonville. 

L. A. Russell was born June 15, 1863, on the 
home farm in Mt. Pleasant township, this county, 
being reared in Chartiers township. After attend- 
ing the common schools he took a commercial 
course at the Iron City College, Pittsburgh, Penn. , 
and graduated February 16, 1884. He then re- 
turned to the home place, and began to follow 
farming and stock raising. He raises a large 
amount of thoroughbred National Delaine Merino 
sheep, shipping them to all points in the United 
States. He is a member of the National Delaine 
Merino Sheep Association, and is one of the lead- 



ing sheep breeders of Washington county, although 
some of his time is given to the raising of Short- 
horn cattle. In 1884 and 1885 Mr. Russell made 
an exhibit at the New Orleans' Fair, where he was 
awarded eleven prizes on twelve sheep. He casts 
his ballot with the Republican party, and was 
chairman of this precinct during the Prohibition 
movement, securing many votes for the Amend- 
ment. Iu religious faith he is a member and 
trustee of the Chartiers United Presbyterian 
Church at Canonsburg, serving as a teacher in 
the Sabbath-school, and assistant leader in the 
choir. In business, social and religious circles, 
Mr. Russell has proven himself a zealous and 
active worker, and an ardent, capable leader. 



JR. GLADDEN occupies a prominent position 
in the large circle of leading agriculturists of 
Cecil township, and is descended from one of 
the pioneer families. His earliest ancestors, 
whose history can be obtained, were William 
and Mary (Woods) Gladden; they were both born 
in eastern Pennsylvania, William being a miller by 
trade. They came to Cecil township in May, 
1795, and bought of one Nicholas Gaunce 206J 
acres, of which he had secured the patent in 1789, 
and made this their permanent home. After the 
death of William, the land became the property of 
Richard Gladden, and has remained iu the family 
name up to the present time. 

Joseph Gladden, son of William and Mary 
Woods Gladden, was born in 1795, in Cecil town- 
ship, this county, and was reared and educated on 
the old homestead. In early manhood he married 
Jane Donaldson, a native of Robinson township, 
this county, and first settled near Midway, on what 
is known as the Campbell farm. In the spring of 
1842 he bought and moved upon a farm in South 
Fayette township, Allegheny Co., Penn., remain- 
ing there until his death, which occurred in 1866, 
being followed by his wife in 1881. Both were 
members* of the United Presbyterian Church at 
Robinson's Run. Their children were: Thomas 
D. (living on the homestead in Allegheny county, 
Penn.), William (deceased in 1891, a resident of 
Jefferson county, Ohio), James (deceased in youth), 
J. R., and Mary Jane (wife of R. A. Warren, Jef- 
ferson county, Ohio). 

J. R. Gladden, son of Joseph and Jane (Donald- 
son) Gladden, was born in 1842. iu South Fayette 
township, Allegheny Co., Penn., and received his ed- 
ucation in the common schools of the neighborhood. 
In 1869 he married Sarah A., daughter of David 
and Sarah (Campbell) McConnell, early pioneers of 
Cecil township, where their daughter Sarah was 
born. On January 15, 1884, J. R. Gladden, in 
company with his brother, Thomas D., bought the 
old home farm of their grandfather, William Glad- 




w 






Ot 



c/js^^yz^y 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1301 



deu, iu Cecil township, from their uncle, Richard 
Gladden, and in 1888 J. R. Gladden bought his 
brother's interest, and made it his permanent home. 
The place contains 321 acres of good land, located 
about one mile from McDonald, and contains four 
producing oil wells. Mr. Gladden conducts a gen- 
eral farming business in connection with a profit- 
able dairy, and has built a good barn, being now 
engaged in building a comfortable tenant house. 
He votes the Democratic ticket. He and his wife 
are members of the First Presbyterian Church at 
McDonald, of which he is a trustee. They have 
had four children: David (deceased at the age of 
two years), Joseph, Thomas Donaldson and Mary 
Jane. 



JfOHN SMITH, a successful farmer of Inde- 
pendence township, was born Juue 22, 1820, 
j near Mt. Hope church, Independence town- 
ship, this county. He is a son of John Smith, 
who was born in 1786, in County Fermanagh, Ire- 
land, and lived on the farm during his boyhood. 
He was married to Jane Graham, who was born in 
1786, a daughter of William Graham. In ISIS. 
with his wife and infant son, he embarked from 
Cork, Ireland, for America, and landing in New 
York came to Independence township, this county, 
where a brother of Mr. Smith had previously 
located, near Buffalo creek. Mr. Smith worked 
as a farm tenant for some time after his arrival in 
Independence township, but soon purchased the 
place on which he lived, and continued to reside 
there until his death, which occurred in 1831. 
His widow remained on the place until 1835, when 
she too passed away, leaving the following chil- 
dren: William (born in Ireland), John (a farmer 
of Independence township), Jane (deceased), Ed- 
ward (died in 1847 of consumption) and Mary A. 
(widow of Paul Ralston, of Independence town- 
ship). 

John Smith, son of John and Jane (Graham) 
Smith, worked on the home farm from earliest 
boyhood, and received his education in the rude 
country schools of the period. When his parents 
died he took charge of the place, which is situated 
about three miles south of Independence, near the 
West Virginia line. His two sisters lived on the 
farm with him until the death of one in 1891, and 
Jane, the remaining sister, has since been keeping 
house for him. Mr. Smith is unmarried, and his 
health having been poor for several years, he has 
consequently lived in a retired manner. He is 
naturally a quiet and unassuming man, having the 
respect and esteem of all who know him. Polit- 
ically he was formerly a Whig, and is now a mem- 
ber of the Republican party. He is a member of 
the M. E. Church at Independence. 



JrOSHUA DICKERSON, a representative of 
one of the early families of Washington 
I county, was born January 3, 1845, on the 
farm where he now resides in Franklin town- 
ship. His great-grandfather, Henry Dicker- 
son, was married in New Jersey, his native State, 
and reared the following named children: Joshua, 
Henry, George, Gideon, Leonard, Asa, Margaret 
and Ruth. He was a leading member and liberal 
supporter of the M. E. Church, and withal was a 
hard-working, industrious man. 

Joshua Dickersou, grandfather of our subject, 
was born May 3, 1781, in Washington county, 
Penn., whither his father had come in a very early 
day. He was for the most part a self-educated 
man, making himself well acquainted with the 
ordinary branches of education, and he made a 
special study of surveying, a profession in which 
he had no superior in the county. He was well 
versed in wood craft and was considered one of 
the best hunters of his time; his business as sur- 
veyor naturally brought him in contact with a 
large number of citizens, and he at once became a 
popular man. He early identified himself with 
the leading party, was elected auditor of his native 
county, and so well did he discharge the duties of 
his office that he was nominated for, and elected, 
representative from Washington and Greene coun- 
ties, a position he filled eight consecutive years; 
he was then elected to the State Senate, in which 
he served six years, and then resigned to accept 
the secretaryship of the laud office, which he filled 
till 1830. In 1S31 he was chosen to the constitu- 
tional convention of the State, and took an active 
and zealous part in the labors of the same. In 
these many years of public life and prominence, Mr. 
Dickerson was totally unpretentious, his home being 
all along in the old log cabin where he was born. 
He was a man of magnificent physique, stalwart 
and active, and the very beau ideal of a Nimrod. 
At the time of La Fayette's visit to Washington, 
Penn.. he furnished the carriage which conveyed 
the illustrious visitor, and he took a prominent 
part in the reception. On April 30, 1853, he 
passed from earth full of years and honor. The 
children born to this remarkable pioneer and his 
first wife, Margaret McPherson, are as follows: 
Joshua D., Nancy, Alexander, Mary, John, Jennie 
(Mrs. Samuel Walters), Ruth (Mrs. Lewis Barker), 
Henry, Lydia (Mrs. Howard Trussell), Margaret 
(Mrs. William Hazlett) and Matilda. Joshua 
Dickerson's second wife was Cornelia Craig, who 
bore him no children. 

John Dickerson, father of our subject, was a na- 
tive of Franklin township, Washington Co., Penn., 
born April 13, 1810. He passed his boyhood and 
youth on the old home place, and was married to 
Mary, daughter of Robert Adams, of Washington 



1302 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



couaty. The children born to this union were 
Margaret (deceased) and Joshua. This wife dy- 
ing in 1851, Mr. Dickerson married Miss Mary 
Johnson, by which union came the following named 
children: Harvey, Mary A., Ruth A. (deceased), 
Lewis (deceased) and Flora B. On April 10, 
1865, Mr. Dickerson was called from earth after a 
long and industrious life. In politics he was first 
a Whig, and afterward, on the formation of the 
party, a Republican. 

The entire life of the subject of this sketch has 
been passed on the homestead of his immediate 
ancestry, the days of his boyhood and early youth 
having been occupied in receiving a thorough 
course of training to agricultural pursuits, and in 
attending in the winter months the common schools 
of the district. On June 2, 1867, he was united 
in marriage with Sarah, daughter of the Hon. J. 
C. Chambers (a sketch of whom is given else- 
where), and two children were born to them: Mary 
(deceased) and Lewis B. Mr. Dickerson and fam- 
ily are adherents of the Disciple Church, and in 
politics he is a Republican. He has been pros- 
perous, thanks to his industry, intelligence and 
foresight, and is a leader in his community, where 
he is highly respected. 



THE JEFFRIES FAMILY. This well known 
family have been closely identified with the 
progress of West Pike Run township. 
Joseph Jeffries was born of English par- 
ents in Chester county, Penn. (on the 
Brandy wine river, near Chadd's Ford), in 1772. 
He moved from that county to Loudoun county, 
Va. , and there married Betsey Robison, who was 
born in 1781 in that Virginia county. In 1796 
they came to Washington county and settled in 
West Pike Run township. The following named 
children were born to this couple: Plessie, born 
in 179S; Benjamin Amor, born March 21, 1803; 
Bennet, Mary, John, Job, all deceased except the 
last named, who is now living at Lemont Furnace, 
Fayette county. Joseph Jeffries died April 9, 
1854, preceded by his wife June 16, 1833. 

Amor, born on Buffington's farm, East Pike Run 
township, was educated at the subscription schools 
of the neighborhood, and learned the wool carder's 
trade, which he followed during early life, after- 
ward devoting his attention to milling and agri- 
culture. He married (April 6, 1828) Sarah Gregg, 
who was born in Washington county, September 
8, 1806, and by this union there were the follow- 
ing named children: Eliza, born June 12, 1829 
(married Henry Gregg, a farmer of Greene county); 
Joseph, born November 1, 1830 (married Nancy 
Jane Hess, a native of Ohio, and he is now living 
at Centreville, Penn.); Elizabeth A., born Novem- 
ber 19, 1831, died February 18, 1875; Jacob, born 



March 26, 1833, died May 16, 1SS3; John, born 
October 16, 1834, died March 16, 1865; Anderson, 
born February 11, 1836; George N., born Sep- 
tember 10, 1837, died December 16, 1870; Jack- 
man, born April 15, 1839, died January 24, 1844; 
Benjamin F., born October 22, 1841 (married An- 
nie Peppers in 1875); Elenor J., born March 
27, 1845, died October 22, 1876; James J., born 
May 28, 1849, died October 18, 1874. The father 
was fond of reading, and in politics voted with the 
Democrats. He died June 15, 1885, preceded by 
his wife June 9, 1880. 

Anderson Jeffries was born in the old home in 
this county, and in the schools of the district se- 
cured a knowledge of the common studies. On 
June 18, 1882, he married Mattie J. Elliott, born 
March 6, 1856, in this county, a daughter of 
Michael Elliott, a native of this county, born No- 
vember 15, 1825. Mr. Elliott learned the gun- 
smith's trade, and on June 15, L855, married Eliza 
Amos, who was born December 25, 183S. Mr. and 
Mrs. Elliott were the parents of one daughter, 
Mattie J., wife of Anderson Jeffries. Mr. Elliott 
died in 1857, and Mrs. Elliott married Fredrick 
Staley. To them were born the following chil- 
dren: John O, Catherine E. (wife of Henry 
Hanen), Anna M., Samuel J., Daniel E., Fredrick 
F. (deceased), Emaline (deceased), David R., Hugh 
O, Eliza L., Hannah B. , Thomas C. and Clarence 
V. Mr. and Mrs. Staley are now living on a farm 
in West Pike Run township. To the union of 
Anderson and Mattie J. (Elliott) Jeffries five chil- 
dren were born, namely: Corene E. , Sarah A. (de- 
ceased), Emma J. and Minnie May (twins) and 
Bessie L. The father is a stanch Democrat. He 
cast his first vote for Stephen A. Douglas. Mr. 
Jeffries owns 276 acres of land. The stone house 
where he was born, and in which the family now 
reside, was built by Benjamin White over one 
hundred years ago. Mrs. Jeffries and daughter. 
Corene, are members of the M. E. Church. 



FJREDERICK McMURRAY is descended 
from natives of the Emerald Isle, whence 
so many of our most industrious and patri- 
otic citizens trace their lineage. His father, 
James McMurray, was born March 13, 1796, in 
Ireland, and when but a small boy came with his 
parents to Pennsylvania, being reared to manhood 
upon a pioneer farm. He was married, in 1830, 
in Washington county, Penn., to Catherine Whit- 
ley, who was born December 22, 1804, and they 
had children as follows: John (now living in Ken- 
tucky), born May 20, 1831 ; Frederick, born in 1832; 
Dorothy (wife of David Bebout, a farmer of Cecil 
township, this county), born April 17,1834; Esther 
(unmarried, is keeping house for her brother 
Frederick), born February 17, 1836; Nancy (mar- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1303 



ried to David C. Dunlap, a farmer of North Stra- 
bane township), born October 15, 1837; Catherine 
(wife of Samuel Rankin, a resident of South Stra- 
bane township), born August 13, 1839; Mary J. 
(Mrs. Albert Stimpson, a farmer of West Finley 
township, this county), born May 20, 1841; Belle 
(wife of Demas Leyda, a farmer of Washington 
county, Ohio), born May 27, 1842; James (living 
in Kansas City, Mo.), born March 6, 1844; and 
Lizzie (married to John Hawkins, a farmer of 
Greene county, Penn.), born December 5, 1846. 
The father was a prominent farmer of Somerset 
township, and an active worker in the United 
Presbyterian Church of Pigeon Creek, but cared 
little for politics. He died April 15, 1875, having 
been preceded December 26, 1867, by his wife. 

Frederick McMurray owns and resides upon the 
home farm, consisting of 109 acres, which was 
purchased in 1847 by his father. He is a prac- 
tical and progressive farmer, and in politics affili- 
ates with the Prohibition party. Mr. McMurray 
has never married. 



IiONAS C. MeCRACEEN, a successful agri- 
. I culturist of Amwell township, is of Scottish 
\j\ descent. His grandfather, Andrew Mc- 
^^ Cracken, with a brother, David, removed 
from Scotland to County Down, Ireland. From 
there David immigrated to America about 1768, and 
in 1792 was followed by Andrew and his family, 
who lived with David two years. Andrew then 
bought sixty-three acres of land of Jacob Housing, 
to which he afterward added forty-one acres, 
purchased of William McClenahan, comprising the 
farm on which his descendants still live. In 1843 
he went to Ohio, and there died. His wife was 
Sarah Jennison, of Ireland, aud they had five chil- 
dren — two sons and three daughters: John, Archi- 
bald, Elizabeth, Isabelle and Nancy. 

Archibald McCracken, son of Andrew and Sarah 
(Jennison) McCracken, was born May 23, 1799. on 
the old homestead in Amwell township, Washing- 
ton county, where he always remained, aud was 
educated in the common schools. In 1825 he was 
married to Lerana, daughter of Luther Axtell, by 
which union there were the following children: 
Phebe, Elizabeth, Andrew J., Mary, M. L. A., 
Rachel (deceased), Sarah, Cloah (deceased), Jonas 
O, and Martha J. (deceased). Archibald Mc- 
Cracken was a successful business man, and at the 
time of his death owned 184 acres of land. He 
was a Whig, then a Republican, and was always in- 
terested in township and county affairs. He died 
August 31, 1884, his wife having preceded him to 
the grave in 1859, and they are buried at Amity. 

Jonas C. McCracken was born on the old farm 
in Amwell township, Washington county, June 11, 
1843. His boyhood was passed in attending 



school, and working on the farm. He took an ex- 
tensive western trip, but evidently concluding that 
Washington county could not be excelled, soon re- 
turned here to make a permanent home. In 1SS5 
he spent two months in Glasgow, Scotland, the 
guest of relatives who had not been heard from for 
fifty-five years, and in 1887 he took a trip to Texas. 
On March 15, 1888, he was united in marriage with 
Mary Ross, of Washington township, Greene Co. , 
Penn. He purchased from the heirs that portion 
of the old farm which he now owns, consisting of 
seventy-five acres of fertile soil, and carries on 
mixed farming. 

dfOHN REED, a prosperous agriculturist of 
1 Hopewell township, is a grandson of James 
J Reed, the latter of whom was a carpenter, 
and built the first courthouse in Washington 
borough. James Reed was born in Scotland, 
and was married to Sina Parker, who bore him 
seven children, the sons being named as follows: 
John, James, Samuel and Parker. 

Samuel Reed was reared and educated in Hope- 
well township, this county, and was afterward 
united in marriage with Mary Ann Vincent, 
daughter of Alexander Vincent. The following 
children were born to this union: James (livino- 
in Missouri), Alexander, Sina Ann (deceased), 
Jane, Mary, Nancy, John and Catherine. Of 
this family James was married to Lydia B. Me- 
Williams, of Westmoreland county, Penn., who 
died leaving four children: Harry, Cally, Samuel 
and Dell; their father is pastor of a Presbyterian 
Church in Missouri; Alexander was first married 
to Jane Ann White, of Washington county, who 
bore him children as follows: White, Samuel, Net- 
tie and Annie (the mother died, and Alexander was 
then married to Mary White, of West Virginia); 
Catherine is the widow of R. E. Merchant, and 
has three sons: Frankie, Orr and Eddie (she is 
living with her brother John); Mrs. Samuel Reed 
died February 22, 1881, followed by her husband 
April 5, 1887. He always followed farming, and 
in politics was a Democrat. He and his wife 
were members of the Upper Buffalo Presbyterian 
Church, in which he served as trustee. 

John Reed, son of Samuel Reed, was born 
November 13, 1846, and was about three years 
of age when his father purchased the farm now 
occupied by S. P. Wilson. John Reed attended 
the common schools, afterward becoming a student 
of the academy; which he attended one session; 
he then devoted his whole attention to farming. 
On October 3, 1877, he was married to Amanda 
Merchant, a native of Ohio, who bore him two 
children: Sina Mabel aud Mary Ella (deceased). 
Mrs. Reed was called to her last home August 8, 
1881. Mr. Reed was a member of the Upper 
Buffalo Presbvteriau Church. 



1304 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 




F. CROTHERS is the eldest son of 
William B. Crothers, who was born June 
14, 1836, in Buffalo township, Washing- 
ton Co., Penn., and passed his earlier 
years at home, alternately working on the 
farm, and attending the district school, at which 
he secured a thorough knowledge of the common 
branches. He began farming in early life, and 
has since continued in that calling, also devoting 
much attention to stock" raising. On February 
28, 1861, he was united in marriage with Emma, 
daughter of James Maxwell, of Hopewell town- 
ship, this county. After their marriage Mr. and 
Mrs. Crothers settled on the place where they now 
reside, and the following children have been born 
to them: Anna (Mrs. Samuel Cleland), Wylie F., 
Maggie (Mrs. Walter Coulson), Harry, Albert, 
James. Arthur and John. Mr. Crothers is a suc- 
cessful farmer, and owns a farm of 500 acres, 
upon which he has made many improvements, near 
the village of Taylorstown. In early life he 
united with the United Presbyterian Church, and 
has ever been an active member, having held some 
important offices, the duties of which he has faith- 
fully performed. He has ever been interested in 
public enterprises, and in politics is a member of 
the Republican party. 

Wylie F. Crothers was born January 19, 1863, 
on the home place in Buffalo township, this coun- 
ty. He remained at home during his minority, 
and was educated at the schools of Taylorstown, 
where he was considered one of the best students. 
On January 19, 1888, he was united in marriage 
with Nettie M., daughter of James Noble, and 
they have one child, Homer N. In February, 
1889, Mr. Crothers opened a general store in Tay- 
lorstown, Buffalo township, and by his honesty, 
enterprise and uniform courtesy has the largest 
custom of any store in the town. His stock occu- 
pies a large building with two floors and a base- 
ment, also a large warehouse adjoining. He keeps 
a complete assortment of all kinds of goods, and 
has the largest and best equipped store (outside 
of Washington) in western Washington county. 
He has succeeded in business by earnest effort, 
and isone of the leading young men of the vicinity. 
Politically he is an ardent Republican, and though 
not a politician gives all possible aid to the suc- 
cess of his party. He and his family are mem- 
bers of the United Presbyterian Church at Tay- 
lorstown, to which they are liberal contributors. 



^INFIELD SCOTT ARMSTRONG, a citi- 
zen of West Finley township, is a grand- 
son of James A. Armstrong, a native of 
Ireland. The latter immigrated to Amer- 
ica, and settled east of the Alleghany 
mountains, where he was married to Miss Mar- 



w 



garet Martin. After their marriage the young 
couple settled in Donegal township, Washington 
Co., Penn., where ten children were born to them. 
Mr. Armstrong was one of the first volunteers in 
the war of 1812, and served till the close of the 
war, when he received an honorable discharge. 

Samuel Armstrong was the tenth child in the 
order of birth, and was born April 20, 1812, on the 
farm in Donegal township, Washington Co., Penn. 
He was united in marriage in 1833, with Mary 
Crow, daughter of William Crow, also a resident 
of Donegal township, and to their union were born 
the following children: Mrs. Mary Watson, Mar- 
garet, Mrs. Sarah J. Hair, William H. , Catherine 
(Mrs. Guess), and Winfield Scott. Mr. Armstrong 
removed to West Alexander four years before his 
death, which occurred June 12, 1867, having been 
preceded by his wife in October, 1855. 

Winfield Scott Armstrong was born August 13, 
1847, in Donegal township, Washington county, 
and lived at home until old enough to earn his 
own living, when he began to work by the month 
for different farmers. On March 27, 1865, he en- 
listed in the One Hundred and Third Regiment, 
P. V. I., and served until the close of the war. 
His brother, William H. Armstrong, enlisted in 
Company C, One Hundred and Fortieth Regiment, 
P. V. I. He served in many of the battles, and 
was captured at Gettysburg, being taken to Libby 
Prison, where, in December, 1863, he died of 
starvation, thus adding another name to the long 
list of martyred heroes. On February 19, 1873, 
Winfield Scott Armstrong was married to Miss 
Kate Gordon, and they have had two children, 
William H. , born April 28, 1876, and Flora Gor- 
don, born January 23, 1890. After his marriage 
Mr. Armstrong bought the old water-power grist- 
mill which he still owns, and made the good, old- 
fashioned sweet flour. The old mill has been kept 
in excellent repair, and is one of the few of that 
kind now in operation. 



/HOMAS SHAW. Among the honored citi- 
zens of Chartiers township, the name of 
Thomas Shaw occupies a prominent posi- 
tion. He is a successful agriculturist and 
worthy representative of an old pioneer fam- 
ily. His grandfather, Joseph Shaw, was born of 
Scotch parents in Ireland, where, in early manhood, 
he married a Miss Sankey, and coming to America, 
he settled in Chartiers township, Washington Co., 
Penn., where he reared a family of children. 

John Shaw, father of subject, was born in 
1804, on the pioneer farm in Chartiers township, 
Washington county. In early manhood he mar- 
ried Sarah Harsha, a native of the same county, 
and settled on the home farm, where the following 
children were born: Esther Ann (who died in 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1307 



infancy), Jane (who died in infancy), William D. 
(who enlisted in Company A, Eighth-fifth Regi- 
ment, P. V. I., served three years, two months 
and ten days, and is now living in Adams county, 
Iowa), Joseph (residing in Ghartiers township), 
John H. (who died at the age of fourteen years), 
an infant and James (twins, the former deceased 
and the latter a veteran of Company B, First Vir- 
ginia Cavalry), Sarah Jane (who married J. L. 
Henderson, and died leaving four sons and one 
daughter), Harrison Marshall(whodiedat theageof 
seven years of typhoid fever), Thomas (our subject), 
Rebecca Agnes (who died in youth), Robert Theo- 
dore (a graduate of Washington and Jefferson 
College, now a physician and surgeon of Silver 
Plume, Colo. ; he has served as a member of the 
Legislature from his county), and Harriet (who 
was married about 1878, to David Bedow; she had 
one child, and died in March, 1880). Mrs. John 
Shaw died of apoplexy in 1869. She was a daugh- 
ter of John Harsha, a son of early pioneers of 
Washington county, and of Scotch-Irish ancestry. 
He was a hunter in Kentucky in the days of Daniel 
Boone, learned the trade of chairmaker in his na- 
tive State, and was married to Esther Ann Mc- 
Millan, a native of Chartiers township, also a 
member of an early pioneer family. They both 
died in Washington county. John Shaw was a 
Democrat until 1840, when he joined the Whigs, and 
upon the organization of the Republican party 
became an enthusiastic Republican. He was a 
member of and elder in the United Presbyterian 
Church at Chartiers Cross Roads, and died in 
February, 1879. 

Thomas Shaw, the subject of this biographical 
sketch, was born September 20, 1844, on the farm 
owned by his father, and where he is now living. 
He attended the district schools of Chartiers town- 
ship, and October 26, 187(5, chose a bride in the 
person of HallieM. , daughter of John and Jemima 
Grounds, early settlers of Washington county, 
and residents of Mt. Pleasant township. One son 
was born of this union, Wilbert Lawrence. Mrs. 
Shaw died June 27, 1879, and on March 16, 1881, 
Mr. Shaw married Jennie W. , daughter of E. J. 
and Ann (White) Agnew, prominent pioneer set- 
tlers of Washington county, and residents of 
Chartiers township. Mr. Agnew has been an elder 
in Hickory and Cross Roads Churches for many 
years. Three children have been born to our sub 
ject and his wife, viz. : Sarah Ann Gertrude, 
Franklin Agnew and Lizzie Edna. The home 
farm contains 200 acres of well-cultivated land. 
and in connection with the general management 
of the place Mr. Shaw devotes much attention to 
stock raising, making a specialty of Holstein cat- 
tle, Shropshire sheep and Chester- White swine. 
In politics, he votes the Republican tickel ; and he 

and Mrs. Shaw are members of the Chartiers 
61 . 



Cross Roads United Presbyterian Church in 
Chartiers township, in which he is an elder, an 
office also rilled by his father in the same church 
for many years. 



b 



EWIS F. McCRORY, a citizen of Califor- 
nia, is a representative of one of the promi- 
nent families of Allen township. His grand- 
father, John McCrory, was born and reared 
in Washington county, Pjenn., there receiving 
his early education. When a young man he 
was married to Catherine Speers, a member of a 
pioneer family of this county, and they settled on 
a farm in Fallowfield township. Their children 
were Elizabeth (wife of David McClain), Samuel 
S., James, Rebecca, John, Plesey, Henry, Jacob, 
Solomon, Emily (wife of George Lang) and 
Nathaniel. The father was a Whig in political 
opinion. 

Samuel S. McCrory was born in 1S09, in Fal- 
lowfield township, Washington Co., Penn. , and 
attended the subscription schools of that locality. 
In early manhood he married Nancy, daughter of 
Samuel Fry, and she bore him the following chil- 
dren* Sarah E. (deceased), Mary K., Lewis F., 
Christina (deceased), Henry J., Emily and John. 
Mr. McCrory worked at boat building and kin- 
dred occupations during early life, and after his 
marriage bought a farm, on which he passed the 
rest of his days. In political opinion he was 
originally a Whig, afterward a Republican. He 
died in September, 1853, his widow passing away 
June 1, 1892. 

Lewis F. McCrory was born February 17, 1839, 
in Fallowfield township, Washington Co., Penn., 
and was reared to agricultural pursuits in Allen 
township, where he attended the public schools. 
In 1862 he enlisted in Company F, Eighteenth 
Pennsylvania Cavalry, serving until the close of 
the war. On October 20, 1869, he married Han- 
nah J., daughter of Allen Bowlen. The latter was 
a son of Nelson Bowlen, a farmer, whose parents 
were natives of Ireland, and came to America in an 
early day. Nelson Bowlen was married to Mary 
Coalbank, who bore him six children, namely: 
Bailey, William, Allen, Eliza, Mary Jane and 
Elizabeth. The father served in the war of 1812; 
in politics he voted with the Whig party, and in 
religious faith he was a member of the Disciple 
Church. 

Allen Bowlen (deceased), son of Nelson and 
Mary Bowlen, was born in 1822, in West Virginia, 
and there learned the tailor's trade, which he fol- 
lowed for several years. He was twice married, 
first to Anna Hugh, and their children were Han- 
nah (wife of Lewis F. McCrory), Sarah (married 
to Samuel Artis), Isaac, Mary E., Margaret and 
James, all except Hannah being now deceased. 



1308 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 






For his second wife Allen Bowleu was married to 
Susan McCarty, who bore him children as fol- 
lows: Minerva (deceased), Nelson (deceased), Ke- 
ziah (deceased), Samuel, May, Michael and Will- 
iam. Mr. Bowlen was formerly a Democrat, and 
afterward united with the Republican party, and 
in religion he was a member of the M. E. Church, 
in which he served as steward and trustee. 

Lewis F. and Hannah J. (Bowlen) McCrory re- 
sided in Washington county, Penn., for some years 
after their marriage, then moved to a farm in Fay- 
ette county, finally returning to Allen township, 
this county. Mr. McCrory was identified with the 
Republicans, but since the organization of the 
Prohibition party has been an enthusiastic advo- 
cate of the principles embodied in their platform. 
He and his wife are members of the M. E. Church. 



OWERN BROS. These gentlemen, who 
conduct an extensive carriage-making es- 
tablishment, and are also dealers in harness 
and horse goods, in Canonsburg, are prom- 
inently identified with the leading business 
interests of that place. The family are of Irish 
descent, the grandfather, William Gowern, having 
been born and reared in Ireland, where he was 
married to a Miss Annie Nugent. Soon after mar- 
riage the young couple came to America, and 
located permanently in New York, where three 
children were born to them: Robert F., Mary and 
Katie. 

Robert F. Gowern, eldest son of William Gow- 
ern, served an apprenticeship in New York with 
Brewster, at the wagon-making trade. After com- 
pleting it he took a tour through the Southern 
States, working as he traveled. Returning to New 
York he was married, on July 18, 1852, to Alice 
Robinson, a native of that city, of Scotch parent- 
age. Two years later Mr. Gowern located in 
South Egremont, Mass. , and not long afterward 
moved to Lincoln, 111., thence to Harrodsburg, 
Ky.,and finally came to Pittsburgh, Allegheny 
Co., Penn. In 1875 he organized the firm of R. 
F. Gowern & Sons, for the manufacture and sale 
of carriages. The firm commenced business on a 
modest scale, in a small frame building where they 
remained until 1886, in which year they erected 
their present extensive factory. Robert F. Gow- 
ern has had four children, namely: William J., 
Robert F. , Lillie (wife of John Boyce), and Annie 
(deceased). In politics the father is a loyal mem- 
ber of the Democratic party. 

William J. Gowern was born December 5, 1853, 
in New York City, and passed his boyhood at 
home. In early youth he entered a carriage-mak- 
ing establishment at Pittsburgh, Penn., where he 
.remained two years, then completed his appren- 



ticeship with the firm of S. B. & C. Hayes, Wash- 
ington, Penn. He is familiar with every depart- 
ment of the business, which he conducts with char- 
acteristic energy. Like his father before him, he 
is an active Democrat. He is yet unmarried. 

Robert F. Gowern, Jr., was born March 8, 1856, 
in South Egremont, Mass. He learned the carriage- 
making trade of S. B. & C. Hayes, of Washington, 
Penn., and is an accomplished workman, thorough- 
ly understanding his business. On July 15, 1880, 
he was married to Miss Nannie A. Simpson, and 
has three children, all living. In 1887 the broth- 
ers bought the entire interest in their father's es- 
tablishment, and added to the business harness 
and horse goods, the firm being now known as the 
Gowern Bros. They make 100 carriages per year, 
and are constantly busied with filling orders, work- 
ing to their fullest capacity. 



LT. CLAYBAUGH, a prominent contractor 
. and builder of California, Penn., is the sec- 
ond son of Moses B. Claybaugh, whose 
father, Michael Claybaugh, was born and 
reared in Germany. The latter was married in his 
native land, and there learned the blacksmith's 
trade, afterward coming to Brownsville, Fayette 
Co., Penn., where he and his wife died many years 
ago. 

Moses B. Claybaugh, son of Michael, was born 
in Fayette county, Penn., where his youth was 
passed. He was married at Coal Centre, Washing- 
ton Co., Penn., to Miss Rebecca Troy, a native of 
that place. The young couple first resided in Cal- 
ifornia, this county, where he followed the black- 
smith's trade, until 1S54, and then moved to Law- 
rence county, Ohio. In 1861 he enlisted, in Gal- 
lia county, Ohio, for three years, or during the 
war, and served under General Buruside; he died 
of cholera at St. Louis, Mo., in 1865, while en route 
home. In 1864 his wife removed to her present 
home in California, Penn. She has had three 
children, namely: Loretta (who died in 1863, in 
Ohio), L. T, and Eva (wife of J. F. Furlong, of 
Pittsburgh, Penn.). 

L. T. Claybaugh was born in 1856, in Lawrence 
county, Ohio, and in 1864 came to California, Penn., 
where he received a limited education, as his wid- 
owed mother needed his assistance when he was 
yet a boy. He first commenced working in the 
boatyard, then learned the carpenter and joiner's 
trade at McKeesport, Penn. He worked as a 
journeyman for several years, and in 1880 com- 
menced business for himself as a builder and con- 
tractor. In 1880 he was married to Anna Coats- 
worth, a native of Monongahela City, and daughter 
of Joseph Coatswortb. The latter was born July 
12, 1842, in Durham, England. His father, Jo- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1309 



seph Coatsworth, was also born and reared in Dur- 
ham, England, and was there married to Sarah 
Ellison, who bore him six children, namely: 
Thomas, Margaret, Joseph, William, Sarah and 
John. Mr. Coatsworth was an expert lead-ore 
miner, and devoted much time to investigating the 
different branches of that business in his native 
country. He finally concluded that America of- 
fered superior opportunities for his family, and in 
1853 crossed the ocean, first locating at Pittsburgh, 
Penn. He there followed coal mining for some 
time, and a few years later purchased a farm in 
Carroll township, this county, finally removing to 
Monongahela City, where he died in 1861. He was 
a strong supporter of Whig and Abolition princi- 
ples, and upheld his views with the tenacity of a 
true Englishman. He was formerly connected with 
the primitive M. E. Church, and after coming to 
America united with the M. E. Society at Monon- 
gahela City, of which he was a most conscientious 
member. 

Joseph Coatsworth came with his parents to 
America when but a lad, and passed his minority 
in Washington county, Peun. In 1872 he opened 
a grocery store, and engaged in the coal business 
at California, this county, afterward conducting a 
grocery at Monongahela City. He finally aban- 
doned the grocery and opened the butcher shop 
where he is now doing a profitable business. On 
November 4, 1863, he was united in marriage with 
Trovillo, daughter of Washington Eckles, formerly 
of Westmoreland county, Peun., and they are the 
parents of seven children, namely: Anna, wife of 
L. T. Claybaugh; Charles W., J. W., May, Kate 
G., Bessie and Eva. Mr. Coatsworth is an active 
member of the Democratic party, and has served 
as councilman. 

Mr. and Mrs. Claybaugh settled in California, 
Penn., where he owns a pleasant residence and 
other valuable property, which he rents. As a 
contractor he is pre-eminently successful, giving 
constant daily employment to an average of thirty- 
one men, and for the past two years has taken the 
output of the California brickyard, averaging 100,- 
000 bricks per month. Mr. Claybaugh is one of 
the directors of the California Glass Company; 
is a director in the Minerva Land and Improve- 
ment Company, of Fayette county, Penn. ; a di- j 
rector in the local branch of the Security Building 
and Loan Association, of Minneapolis, Minn. ; and 
a director in the local branch of the Southern 
Building and Loan Association, of Knoxville,Teun. 
He is actively identified with the Republican party, 
and has served as a member of the town council; 
he is a member of the Royal Arcanum of Califor 
nia. Mr. and Mrs. Claybaugh are the parents of 
four children, namely: Lon W., Eva, Ruth and 
L. T., Jr. 



JiEHU DUNLEVY is a representative of an 
early pioneer family of Washington county, 
and a son of Andrew Dunlevy, whose parents 
located in Allen township some time prior to 
1795, and died in that vicinity. 

Andrew Dunlevy was born July 1, 1795, on the 
home farm in Allen township, Washington Co., 
Penn., where his youth was passed. On May 22, 
1816, he was united in marriage with Sarah Jack- 
man, who was born March 25, 1799, in Washing- 
ton county, and to this marriage children were 
born as follows: Joseph (who died in 1840), Will- 
iam (who moved from Pennsylvania to Illinois, 
and theuce to Nebraska, where he is now living), 
Matilda (who died single), Crawford (now living in 
Hot Springs, Ark.), Jehu, Anthony (a ship car- 
penter, was killed in an explosion on a vessel on 
Galveston Bay, Texas), Jesse (deceased in infancy), 
Barbara Ann (wife of S. T. Williams, of Cherokee 
county, Iowa), and Sarah Rebecca (wife of Parker 
S. Sphar, of Allen township). The father was 
a Democrat in politics, and in religion an ardent 
member of the Presbyterian Church, of which he 
was a ruling elder for many years. He died July 
24, 1879, having been preceded by his wife in 
1845. 

Jehu Dunlevy, son of Andrew and Sarah (Jack- 
man) Dunlevy, was born October 5, 1833, in Allen 
township. He has never left his birthplace, and 
November 20, 1856, brought thither his bride, Mary 
McKee, a native of Allen township. She was a 
daughter of Hugh and Catherine (Lute) McKee, 
early pioneers of Fayette county. Penn., and mem- 
bers of the Rehobeth Church. The mother is yet 
living in Allen township, Washington county, the 
father having passed away some years ago. Mrs. 
Dunlevy died April 14, 1868, leaving two sons, of 
whom the following is a brief record: James H. is 
a railroad agent at Munhall, Penn., at which sta- 
tion are located the great Carnegie Steel Works, 
where, on July 6, 1892, occurred the famous riot. 

On June 17, 1891, James H. Dunlevy was mar- 
ried to Mary A. daughter of Rev. Levi Risher, of 
Dravosburgh, Penn., and one son has been born to 
their union, viz: Risher A. They reside in Home- 
stead, which city adjoins the Steel Works of Car- 
negie & Co. Thomas T. , youngest sou of Jehu 
and Mary (McKee) Dunlevy, is a steamboat master 
and pilot on the Monongahela and Ohio rivers. 
On June 1, 1870, Jehu Dunlevy was married to 
Mary E., daughter of James and Mary (Swauger) 
Patterson, pioneers of Allegheny county, Penn., 
and ardent members of the Reformed Presbyterian 
Church. Two daughters have been born to the 
union of Jehu and Mary E. Dunlevy, viz. : Etta 
M. and Jessie F. The home farm contains eighty 
acres of river land, upon which a mining town is 
now being established to further the coal industry. 



1310 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Politically Mr. Dunlevy is a Democrat, anil has 
served for many years as a member of the school 
board, and takes a special interest in all educa- 
tional matters. His wife is a member of the 
United Presbyterian Church. 



J (AMES CRAIG, one of the leading represent- 
ative progressive farmers of Donegal town- 
! ship, is a grandson of John Craig, a native 
of County Donegal, Ireland, whence in an 
early day he immigrated to this country, tak- 
ing up his residence in Fayette county, Penn. 
Here he married Rebecca Stevens (by whom he 
had some eight or ten children), and followed farm- 
ing, also teaching school up to the time of his 
death. The widowed mother afterward came with 
her son John to this county, where for a few years 
he kept a tavern on the National pike, about two 
miles east of West Alexander, in Donegal township, 
where Joseph Sample now resides. Here John 
Craig married Ellen, a daughter of James Craig, 
and one child was born to their union, Rebecca, 
who died after reaching adult age This wife be- 
ing called to her long home, Mr. Craig married, for 
his second wife, Eleanor, a daughter of Patrick 
Craig, of Donegal township, and the results of 
this union were the following children: Jane, 
William, John, Eleanor, Mary, Samuel, James, 
Roland and Margaret, all now deceased except 
James. After his first marriage John Craig lo- 
cated in West Finley township, near the State line 
of West Virginia, where for a short time he followed 
farming, and then moved to Donegal township, 
settling one-half mile south of Toll-gate No. 6, on 
the National pike, where he passed the remainder 
of his days, dying September 80, 1864, in his 
eighty-fourth year, his wife having preceded him 
to the grave in 1852. In politics Mr. Craig was 
first a Whig and afterward, from the time of its 
organization, a member of the Republican party. 
He was a successful agriculturist, and accumulated 
a comfortable competence by hard work and judi- 
cious economy. 

James Craig was born May 25, 1825, in Done- 
gal township, Washington Co., Penn., where his* 
boyhood and youth were passed, alternating be- 
tween book lessons at school and practical lessons 
on his father's farm. On December 4, 1851, he 
was married to Elizabeth Dickey, who was born in 
Germantown (now a part of Philadelphia), October 
7. L827, a daughter of Nathaniel Dickey, a native 
of County Donegal, Ireland, who, when a young 
man, came to America, settling near Philadelphia. 
There he married Elizabeth Kelter, a native of 
eastern Pennsylvania, and to them were born the 
following children: William, Mary, Tacy, Eliza- 
beth (Mrs. Craig), Anna. Sarah J., Caroline, 
Susan and Martha. About 1830 they came to 



Donegal township, this county, where they resided 
until their deaths; the father dying June 11, 1852, 
in his sixty-second year, having been thrown from 
a horse and killed, and the mother on June 17, 
1870, in her seventy-third year. To Mr. and Mrs. 
James Craig were born nine children, as follows: 
Mary E. (Mrs. George Browulee, of Otoe county, 
Neb.), John (a carpenter, also in Otoe county), 
William D. (a farmer in Donegal township), James 
(deceased when twenty-eight years of age), Emma 
J., Samuel L. and Elizabeth B. (all three living 
with their parents), Nathaniel H. (who died at the 
age of seventeen years) and Carrie V. (at home 
with her parents). Soon after marriage Mr. Craig 
settled on one of his father's farms, situated three 
miles southeast of West Alexander, where he has 
resided over forty years, successfully engaged in 
farming and stock raising. In politics he is a 
Republican, and has held various township offices, 
to which, however, he never aspired; his wife is a 
consistent member of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. 
Craig; and the entire family enjoy the esteem and 
respect of a wide circle of acquaintances and 
friends. 



I' SAAC T. CROUCH. As we record the lives i ,f 
those whose acts have made a lasting impress 
on the community in which they live, or whose 
beneficial influence is ever reaching out farther, 
there is a special pleasure in tracing the history of 
men who were numbered among the gallant 
soldiers of the Union. The gentleman of whom 
we write is a son of Benedict, and grandson of 
Elijah Crouch. The latter, who was of English 
descent, reared a family of four children, viz. : 
Elisha, Benedict, Stephen, and Mary, all of whom 
lived over fourscore years, and are now deceased. 
Benedict Crouch was born in June, 1800, near 
Jefferson, Greene Co., Penn., there passing his 
early youth. He learned the saddler's trade, which 
he followed a short time, and was then married to 
Rebecca, daughter of James Wallace. It seems 
this adventurous young Romeo had little faith 
in the popular maxim that " When poverty 
enters the door; love flies out of the window," for 
it is said that he commenced wedded life with a 
capital of thirty-seven cents. But far better than 
wealth, a stout body, active brain, and cheerful 
heart were his, which, with the unselfish love of his 
fair bride, proved far more efficient aids to success 
than a bank account in the hands of another. 
They were tenants on a farm for several years after 
their marriage, when he bought 288 acres near 
Bciitli'yville, Washington Co., Penn. Here hecar- 
ried on an extensive farming business, and reared 
a large family of children, as follows: James, 
Sarah, John, William, Adah, Mary Ann, Thomas, 
Nathan, Hiram, Isaac T. , Elizabeth, Bennett and 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1313 



Nesbit, of whom John, Sarah, Elizabeth, Thomas, 
Hiram, Nesbit and Mary Ann are now deceased. 
Adah and Isaac T. served under Gen. Philip Sheri- 
dan in the famous Ringgold Cavalry, which was 
finally merged into the Twenty-second Cavalry, 
under which title it was mustered out. Hiram was 
also a soldier of the Union, and William, then resid- 
ing in Arkansas, felt that duty called him to defend 
his home and family rather than the nation; he 
therefore entered the Confederate army, and served 
throughout the conflict as captain of an Arkansas 
regiment. Benedict Crouch, for his second spouse, 
married Charity Wallace, a sister of his first wife, 
and the children by this union were S. Bentley, Hud- 
son C. and Allison B. Notwithstanding the con- 
dition of his finances in early manhood, Benedict 
Crouch succeeded in paying for his home, rearing 
his large family of children in a respectable man- 
ner, and also saving quite a sum of money. He 
was an earnest Christian, and was identified with 
the Methodist Church, in which he was a class- 
leader. In politics, he wasnrst a Whig, and after- 
ward, on the formation of the party, a stanch Re- 
publican. 

Isaac T. Crouch, son of Benedict and Rebecca 
Crouch, was born August 22, 1842, near Bealls- 
ville, Washington Co., Penn. At the age of 
twenty-one years he entered the war (as above 
related) as a private, being afterward promoted to 
the rank of sergeant. He participated in the bat- 
tle of Cedar Creek, the scene of "Sheridan's 
Ride, " and served until the close of the war. He 
then returned to Washington county, where he 
worked on a farm for several years. On Septem- 
ber 4, 1872, he was united in marriage with Eliza- 
beth, daughter of William Forsythe, of Fayette 
county, Penn. The young people soon afterward 
located in Peters township, Washington county, 
where they remained as tenants for several years. 
In 1879 he bought the farm where he is now liv- 
ing, containing 117 acres of some of the best land 
in the county; it is underlaid with a valuable vein 
of coal which was recently sold at $50 per acre. 
Politically, Mr. Crouch has always been devoted to 
the interests of the Republican party, but invaria- 
bly declines official honors. He is a member of the 
Presbyterian Church, and has served as elder and 
Sabbath-school superintendent. Two daughters 
complete the family circle, Jennie R. , attending 
the Washington Female Seminary, and Nellie R. 



lyJIf ARTIN BOM CRAIG, a substantial farmer 

X//\ of Franklin township, is of Irish parent- 

^1 a S e > hi s father, William Craig, having 

. J been born in the Emerald Isle, and when 

a small boy emigrated with his parents to 

America. The sole method of navigation in those 

days was by sailing vessels, and the emigrants 

were nearly two and a half mouths in crossing the 



ocean, the weather being extremely rough, but the 
journey was at last ended in safety. 

The Craig family settled in Franklin township, 
Washington Co., Penn., where William grew to 
manhood and was married to Lydia Stokly, a 
daughter of one of the oldest pioneers of that 
township. The following children were born to 
them, their names and dates of birth being given: 
Eli, May 17, 1788; Otho, April 2, 1790; John, 
September 2, 1792; Arthur, July 13, 1794; 
Thomas, March 13, 1796; Elizabeth, July 31, 
1798; Samuel, June 22, 1800; Prudence and 
Cornelia (twins), February 14, 1803; and Martin 
B., February 8, 1808. Mr. Craig resided in Wash- 
ington borough several years after his marriage, 
and then purchased the farm now occupied by his 
son Martin B. It was then an uncultivated tract 
of land, and its present comfortable and homelike 
condition is due wholly to the efforts of Mr. Craig 
and his children. He was an energetic man, and 
earned the success which he won. In political 
life he was a Democrat, and for many years served 
as justice of the peace in Franklin township, a 
position which he filled to the entire satisfaction 
of every one. He died July 30, 1823, his widow 
on June 26, 1848. 

Martin B. Craig passed his childhood on the 
home farm in Franklin township, but was obliged 
to begin life for himself at a very early age, and 
the experience thus gained has since enabled him 
to overcome many obstacles to success which would 
have proved insurmountable to those possessing 
less practical knowledge. He received a very lim- 
ited education at the subscription schools, and re- 
tains a most vivid recollection of the scenes there 
enacted, and the primitive surrounding of his boy- 
ish days. The schoolhouse was an old deserted 
cabin, with a puncheon floor, upon which the slab 
seats and writing desks were placed beside the 
walls. The windows consisted of a single pane of 
glass, or a slip of greased paper placed over an 
epening made by the removal of a portion of a log. 
The old fireplace extended nearly across one end 
of the room, and was fed by huge logs, which were 
exit down at noon time by the larger boys. 

On December 24, 1831, Mr. Craig was united in 
marriage with Sarah, daughter of Abram Elliott, 
a native of New Jersey, and their children are 
Jane (deceased), Adeline. Elizabeth, Lydia, Will 
iam, Atkinson and Sample (all three deceased), 
and Nancy, living at home. After his marriage 
Mr. Craig settled on the home place, having pur- 
chased the interest of the other heirs, and hi 1851 
he erected the handsome brick residence which is 
his present home. He commenced life with very 
little, but by industry and enterprise has become a 
most prosperous citizen. In politics he is an ardent 
Democrat, outspoken in his opinions. He is a 
member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. 



13U 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 




^ILLIAM P. MORGAN is a great-grand- 
son of John Morgan, who was born in 
AY ales, where his boyhood and youth were 
— ' passed. He was there married to a young 
countrywoman, and some years afterward 
brought his family to America, locating in Allegheny 
county, Penn. Three children were born to these 
early pioneers, viz. : Hugh, Samuel and Anna. 
The parents continued to reside on the farm, where 
they first settled, until their death. They were 
members of the Presbyterian Church, and in polit- 
ical opinion Mr. Morgan was a Democrat. 

Hugh Morgan was born and educated in Wales, 
and came to America with his parents in early life. 
He was married to Margaret Billingsby, of West 
Virginia, and settled permanently in Allegheny 
county, Penn. They reared the followingchildren : 
John, Samuel, Anna, Mary, Frank, Hannah, Web- 
ster, Hugh, James, Billingsby, Josiah and Will- 
iam (the two last named being deceased). The 
father died in 1846. He was a member of the 
Presbyterian Church, and politically he was an 
adherent of the Democratic party. 

James Morgan, son of Hugh and Margaret 
(Billingsby) Morgan, was born January 17, 1809, 
on the home place in Allegheny county, Penn. , 
and attended the subscription schools of the vicinity 
during his youth. In early life he was wedded to 
Elizabeth, daughter of John Hindman, a native of 
Washington county, Penn., who bore him children 
as follows: Hugh, Sarah J. (Mrs. William Herri 
ott), Samuel, Billingsby, William P., John C. and 
Maggie (wife of James Fife). Mr. Morgan has 
for threescore years been a zealous member of the 
Presbyterian Church. He has always followed 
farming and stock raising. Politically, he was 
formerly a Whig, and has voted the Republican 
ticket since the organization of that party. Mrs. 
Morgan passed over the silent river in 1870. 

William P. Morgan was born May 4, 1842, on 
the old place in Allegheny county, Penn., receiving 
his early education in the home schools. On 
March 7, 1867, he was united in marriage with 
Martha J., daughter of John and Elizabeth John- 
son. While yet a young man AVilliam P. Morgan 
began a successful mercantile career. He first 
opened a store at Morganza, this county, remain- 
ing there five years, then moved to Canonsburg, 
and since that time he has conducted a very profit- 
able business in the latter place, his custom having 
increased to large proportions. He is an active 
member of the Republican party. In religion he 
is prominently identified with the U. P. Church 
at Canonsburg, having served for years as a mem- 
ber of the Session, and also as Sunday-school su- 
perintendent . Mr. Morgan is one of the influential 
and progressive men of his community. Two daugh- 
ters have blessed his home, namely: Lizzie Luella 
(Mrs. Ed. McNary), and Laura (living at home). 



GARY PIPER. In every community there 
are to be found some who have achieved 
success in life by sturdy, patient, unceasing 
toil, and among this class the Piper family, 
of whom the subject of this sketch is a prominent 
member, have been justly welcomed. 

William Piper was born in Virginia of German- 
English parents, and he followed carpentry in 
conjunction with agricultural pursuits, becoming 
a successful man. He left a large family, of 
whom, Thomas D. Piper was born in the Shenan- 
doah Valley, Va., where his boyhood was passed. 
He there learned and followed the carpenter's 
trade, and after a time, coming to Coal Centre, 
Washington Co., Penn., commenced business as a 
builder and contractor, many of the buildings there 
being erected by him. At Coal Centre he married 
Ella Holmon, who bore him one son, William 
(who married Catherine Crow, and died in the 
State of California), and shortly thereafter died. 
Thomas D. Piper was then married to Mary 
Duvall, daughter of Lewis Duvall, one of the 
highly respected and well-to-do farmers of East 
Pike Run township, who had children as follows: 
Mary (wife of Thomas D. Piper), Hannah (wife of 
Elias Garrett), Abigail (wife of Jacob Deems), Isa- 
bel and Eliza (both unmarried), John (married to 
Hannah Yosty) and Lewis (married to Mary 
Deems). To Thomas D. and Mary Piper were 
born the following children: Ann (wife of H. D. 
Wilkins), Hannah (who married Joseph Moffat), 
Lewis D., J. W., Mary (wife of Henry F. Jami- 
son), Cary and A. C. The father of this family 
died January '26, 1880, the mother on January 23, 
1 88 1. Politically Mr. Piper voted with the Whig 
and Republican parties, and in religion he was a 
leading member of the Cumberland Presbyterian 
Church. 

Cary Piper was born December 8, 1851, in Coal 
Centre, Washington Co., Penn., and received his 
early education in the public schools. In 1873 he 
opened a grocery business at Coal Centre, in con- 
nection with his brother A. O, which they ex- 
changed for a drug store in 1874. They. have 
been very successful in the latter enterprise, which 
is conducted under the firm name of Piper Bros., 
and they own some of the best property in Coal 
Centre. On September 11, 1879, Cary Piper was 
united in marriage with Alice F., daughter of E. 
C. Furlong, who is a son of John Furlong, whose 
father was born in Ireland, and coming to America 
made a permanent settlement in Maryland. John 
Furlong was born on the home place in Maryland, 
where he was married to Elizabeth, daughter of 
Henry and Catherine Holman, also natives of 
Maryland. The father was a Revolutionary sol- 
dier, holding the rank of captain, and both parents 
died in Allen township, Washington county, where 
their later years were passed. To the union of 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1315 



John and Elizabeth Furlong three children were 
born, viz. : Catherine E. (married to James Dow- 
ler, of West Pike Run township, and died in 1890), 
Otho H. (deceased in 1882, at Fayette City, Penn.) 
and E. C. After their marriage (about 1830) Mr. 
and Mrs. Furlong came to Washington county, 
Penn., locating on a farm in Allen township, and 
during the last twenty years of his life he followed 
the coal business in Fayette county. He was a 
soldier in the war of 1812, and politically was a 
Jacksonian Democrat, taking an active interest in 
the affairs of his party. He died in March, 1883, 
at the age of ninety-three years, the wife and 
mother having passed away long before, at the age 
of seventy- five years. Both parents were members 
of the M. E. Church at Mt. Tabor. 

E. C. Furlong, youngest son of John and Eliza- 
beth Furlong, was born February 27, 1823, on 
the home farm in Maryland, and coming with his 
parents to Pennsylvania, was reared in Allen town- 
ship, Washington county. He attended the sub- 
scription schools of the neighborhood, and after 
the death of his father engaged with his brother 
Otho in the coal business on the river, shipping to 
all points on the Ohio and Mississippi rivers. E. 
C. Furlong was pilot on the river coal boats for 
about thirty years, making many trips to Cairo, 
Louisville and Cincinnati. In 1850 he was united 
in marriage with Amy Ann Stockdale, a native of 
Allen township, this county, a daughter of Allen 
Stockdale, who was born in 1788; be married 
Letitia Allen, who was born July 27, 1788, a 
daughter of Joseph Allen, for whom Allen town- 
ship was named. The Aliens were among the 
earliest settlers of Washington county, and owned 
a vast tract of laud on the Monongahela river 
where their lives were passed. Joseph Allen died 
December 10, 1832, his wife having been laid to 
rest December 27, 1827. E. C. and Amy Ann 
Furlong began wedded life on the farm where they 
are now living, and the following children have 
blessed their union: Josephine (wife of Frank 
Hernett, of Pasadena, Cal.), William Allen (pro- 
prietor of a drug store at Laceyville, Penn.), John 
F. (residing at Pittsburgh), Sarah, Alice F. (wife 
of C. Piper), Letitia and Otho (living in Charleroi, 
Penn.). Mr. Furlong conducts a prosperous real- 
estate business, and owns nine houses in Roscoe. 
Politically he votes with the Democratic party, 
and has served as a member of the school board; 
in religion he and his wife are members of the 
M. E. Church. 

Cary and Alice F. (Furlong) Piper have had two 
sons, viz. : Edward C. (deceased) and Earle. Mr. 
Piper is an active worker in the Republican party, 
and served as postmaster at Coal Centre, under 
Garfield, also Harrison. He is interested in relig- 
ious matters, as a zealous member of the Cumberland 
Presbyterian Church, of which he has been trustee. 



G ARSON. The first member of the family, of 
which Isaac and Cornelius Carson are hon- 
ored representatives, emigrated from his 
native land, Ireland, to America, and made 
a settlement in this county, taking out a patent for 
land in Fallowtield township over one hundred 
years ago. Subsequently he traded a part of the- 
original farm for a shot-gun, in order to induce a 
traveler who had the gun to settle near him in the 
wilderness. He died on this property, which has 
been in the possession of the family ever since. 

John Carson, his son, was born, reared and edu- 
cated on the home place in Fallowtield township, 
and when a young man married Elizabeth 
Springer, of the same locality. After marriage 
they settled on the homestead, where Mr. Carson 
carried on general farming and stock raising. 
Their children were Mary (Mrs. Abraham Van- 
Voorhis), Margaret (Mrs. Parker Carson), Eliza- 
beth (Mrs. Noah Fry), John S. (father of subject), 
Sarah A. (Mrs. H. Allman) and Caroline (Mrs. M. 
Hazen). The parents of this family both died on 
the home place, and lie side by side in the Speers 
burying ground. They were members of the 
Speers Baptist Church; in politics Mr. Carson was. 
a Democrat, and he held various township offices. 
John S. Carson was born May 31, 1823, in Fal- 
lowtield township, Washington Co., Penn. He 
married Margaret Jones, a native of the township, 
daughter of Elijah and Mary (Warren) Jones, farm- 
ers, who were the parents of the following chil- 
dren: William, Eliza J. (Mrs. John Beadle), Mar- 
garet (Mrs. John S. Carson), Wesley, James, Noah 
and Isaac W. Mr. Jones was a member of the M. 
E. Church, and in politics was a Whig and Repub- 
lican. After his marriage John S. Carson purchased 
a farm adjoining the homestead in Fallowtield 
township, and here passed the remainder of his 
life, dying September 24, 1882, his wife having 
preceded him to the grave December 16, 1870; 
they sleep their last sleep in Maple Creek 
cemetery, which is on the Carson farm. Mrs. 
Elizabeth Carson was the first buried there. 
They were members of the Baptist Church, 
and Mr. Carson was always regarded as an ener- 
getic and substantial citizen. In his political 
preferences he was an active Democrat, held va- 
rious offices of trust in his township, and was school 
director for over a quarter of a century. Their 
children were Isaac, Cornelius, John Clarkson 
(who died in April, 1891, at Salt Lake City, Utah), 
Henry (a farmer in Fallowtield township), Robert 
B. (a resident of Aspen, Colo.), Mary E., Van C, 
Margaret M. (Mrs. I. N. Carson, of Fallowtield 
township), Caroline (Mrs. John W. Carson), Noah 
T. and Joseph (both living on the old Carson 
homestead). 

Isaac Carson was born December 29, 1846, in 
Fallowtield township, and received a liberal edu- 



1316 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



cation at the common schools of his district. On 
May 1, 187'.!, he married Lorinda, daughter of 
Noah and Lydia (Hill) Fry, natives of Fallowfield 
township. Her father died in December, 1884, the 
mother several years prior to his demise. Mr. and 
Mrs. Carson continued their residence in Fallow - 
field township until 1877, when he bought 140 
acres in Allen township, to which they removed. 
He yet owns sixty-four acres in Fallowlield town- 
ship, and in addition to general farming is con- 
siderably interested in live stock, making it a 
specialty. Politically he votes independent of 
party in local politics, but supports the Democrats 
in national issues. He is a member of the school 
board. Mrs. Carson is identified with the Disciple 
Church. Their children are Noah F., John S., 
Van C Carl B. , Omadell, Raymond, Edgar and 
Annie Elizabeth. 

Cornelius Carson was born December 29, 1848, 
in Fallowfield township, where his primary educa- 
tion was received. He attended the private 
academy of John C. Messenger, and later the 
Southwestern State Normal School at California. 
On the completion of his studies he taught school 
for some few terms, during the winter months, 
working on the farm the rest of the year, which 
latter vocation he followed until 1882 when he 
came to Monongahela, and here for a short time 
was in partnership with Yohe Brothers, in their 
planing mill. He then opened a furniture store 
which he conducted about four years, afterward 
embarking in his present grocery business. On 
October 30, 1873, Mr. Carson was married to 
Sarah, daughter of Joseph Beazell, of Fallowfield 
township. To them have been born: Laura I., 
Margaret A., Sarah B., Van C, Emma J., May E., 
Cornelius G. , Isaac W. and Joseph Bascom. Our 
subject is an active Democrat, a leader in the party 
for many years. He has been twice elected a 
member of the borough council in a ward where 
the Republicans outnumber the Democrats two to 
one — a forcible evidence of Mr. Carson's popular- 
ity, and a practical recognition of his capabilities. 
He is a member of the M. E. Church, a highly 
successful business man, and an energetic, useful 
citizen. 



It It ENRY M. KEENY, one of the most popu- 
IwJ lar, wide-awake citizens of Franklin town- 
ship, was born January 13, 1837, in West 
I) Bethlehem township, Washington Co., 

v Penn., a son of Daniel and Mary (Shipe) 

Keeny, the former of whom was born in Amwell 
township, same county, the latter a daughter of 
one of the early settlers here. Daniel Shipe served 
in the war of 1812, and was reported among the 
missing. After marriage Daniel and Mary Keeny 
resided in various townships in the county, finally 



settling in Amwell, where they died. The children 
born to them were Levi (deceased), Rebecca (widow 
of Mr. House), Elizabeth, Isaac, John, Abraham, 
Henry M., Mary A. (wife of J. Bowen, of Canton 
township), Catherine (Mrs. Charles Van Kirk), 
Daniel (who enlisted in Company C, One Hun- 
dred and Fortieth P. V. I., was wounded in the 
battle of Gettysburg by a shell, and died of blood 
poisoning at the hospital in Philadelphia), and 
George (who was in Company B, same regiment 
as his brother). In politics the father was a 
Democrat. 

Henry M. Keeny began attending school in his 
native township, about three mouths of each year 
being so passed, and this continued till he was 
eighteen years of age. When nineteen he com- 
menced teaching in the "Red District." where he 
remained one year; then taught three terms in 
Greene county, and afterward eight terms under 
an engagement in Franklin township, this county. 
On September 1, 1881, he was married to Sarah 
C, daughter of Rybert Chambers, now deceased 
of Franklin township, and they then settled on the 
place where they yet reside. Their union has been 
blessed with the following named children: Bessie 
E., born November 1, 1882, and Birdie, born 
December 1, 1883. Mr. Keeny has always been a 
Republican, and at the age of twenty-one was 
elected to the office of auditor of Amwell township, 
serving two years. In Franklin township he has 
served as auditor three years; school director, 
twelve years; clerk of the election board, six years; 
supervisor, three years, and is now serving his 
fifteenth year as justice of the peace. Mr. Keeny 
is a typical self made, and, for the most part, self- 
educated man, and he is now the owner of 400 acres 
of valuable land, all accumulated by industry, 
economy and good management. For twenty-one 
years he has been a buyer of wool. Some few 
years back his health commenced to fail somewhat. 



JlOHN T. MOFFITT represents an old and 
I pioneer family of Washington county. James 
j Moffitt (grandfather), born in Ireland No- 
vember 4, 1766, on the banks of Loch Erin, 
emigrated to thi's country in 1789. He was mar- 
ried, September 18, 1791, to Elizabeth Nichols, 
and reared a family of nine children — five sons 
and four daughters — of whom one daughter and 
two sons are yet living. He was a weaver by 
trade, but, settling on a farm in West Pike Run 
township, this county, became successful as a 
farmer, leaving, at his death, which occurred when 
he was eighty-six years old, a large amount of 
property to his heirs. Elizabeth, his wife, died at 
the age of eighty-eight years, and both are buried 
on the old homestead. 

John Moffitt, son of James and Elizabeth 





^r.Jf< 




WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1319 



Moffitt, was born December 2, 1804, and was en- 
gaged during the earlier part of bis active life in 
boating coal and apples, making some trips to 
New Orleans. He was a strong supporter of tbe 
Republican party, and served several years as 
constable under Ephraim Blaine, the father of the 
late James G. Blaine. At that time any failure 
to pay an honest debt was considered a grave 
crime, punishable by imprisonment. Later in life 
he settled on the old homestead, and followed ag- 
riculture and stock raising. He was married to 
Hannah Mason. He died September 13, 1878, in 
the seventy-third year of his age, his wife follow- 
ing soon after; both were members of the M. E. 
Church. 

John T. Moffitt, son of John Moffitt, was born 
August 14, 1844, and secured a limited education. 
On May 13, 1869, he was married to Mary E. Hor- 
mell, born March 31, 1850, in Guernsey county, 
Ohio, a daughter of Jacob Hormell, who was born 
December 19, 1825, and on August 26, 1847, he 
married Minerva Lilley, who was born December 
26, 1826. Mr. and Mrs. Hormell were the par- 
ents of ten children, eight of whom are yet liv- 
ing. John T. and Mary E. Moffitt have had the 
following family: John H., born June 5, 1870; 
Victor Noir, born April 10, 1873; Thomas Edgar, 
born May 10, 1879; Guy, born June 4, 1886; 
Mary, born May 26, 1889, and Lillian, born April 
12, 1875, died in the fourth year of her age. 

Mr. Moffitt has taken pride in fine stock. He 
has been a breeder of Jersey cattle for eighteen 
years, was early in life engaged in raising fine 
sheep, and has on the farm (the old homestead), 
which he now superintends, a flock of thorough 
bred Black-Top Merino sheep. He has erected on 
his place excellent buildings. In political opinion 
Mr. Moffitt is a Prohibitionist, has filled the office 
■of school director for two terms, and is road 
commissioner. He and his wife are identified 
with the Disciple Church, in which he is an elder. 



J|OHN WOODBURN. Among the residents 
| of East Finley township, who by their ex- 
| emplary lives have not only won for them- 
selves esteem, but have also acted an im- 
portant part in molding the lives of others, none 
are more prominent or influential than the Wood- 
burns. The earliest record known of this family 
is that of one John Woodburn, a native of County 
Antrim, Ireland, where he was a landholder. 
There he married Martha Scott, who bore him in 
that country six children, one of whom died there, 
the remaining five — Rosanna, Mary, Samuel, 
Martha and Joseph — coming to America with 
their parents in 1812. After a stormy voyage of 
sixteen weeks they landed, in the spring of the 
year, at Philadelphia, and from there pushed on 



to Washington county, where they settled in Buf- 
falo township, near Taylorstown. Here Mr. 
Woodburn purchased 160 acres of land, ten of 
which were under cultivation, and successfully 
followed farming until 1842, when, old age coming 
upon him, he went to live with his children, but 
died in the following year. His wife had preceded 
him to the grave in 1822. By hard work, indus- 
try and good management he accumulated consid- 
erable property. His children are all now dead, 
Joseph, the father of our subject, being the last to 
pass away. 

Joseph Woodburn was born May 22, 1804, in 
County Antrim, Ireland, and came to America with 
his parents in 1812. He attended the subscrip- 
tion schools in Buffalo township, this county, and 
received practical instruction in agriculture on his 
father's farm until the age of nineteen, when he 
began to learn the tanner's trade with Adam Law- 
rence, serving a three years' apprenticeship, after 
which he embarked in the business for himself. 
On March 4, 1829, he was united in marriage with 
Ruth Garrett, who was born in 1802, a daughter 
of James and Sarah (Ross) Garrett, who were of 
Irish extraction. Mrs. Woodburn died July 24, 
1842, leaving four children : John, James R., 
Samuel and Mary A., of whom Samuel died in 
1863, and Mary A. on June 29, 1886. On April 
27, 1843, Mr. Woodburn married Mrs. Hannah 
Downie, the widow of Robert Dowuie, and of this 
union were born two children : Jennie (who died 
January 9, 1866) and Luther S. (who died June 9, 
1866). After his first marriage Mr. Woodburn 
followed his trade of tanner until 1832, when he 
moved to Donegal township and purchased a farm 
near West Alexander. Here he carried on farm- 
ing for about five years, and then came to East 
Finley township, settling on land about one and 
one-half miles south of Claysville, along Buffalo 
creek. In 1866 he and his wife moved into Wash- 
ington, where they lived until her death, which 
occurred in 1883, after which he made his home 
with his children until his summons from earth, 
which came August 23, 1889. He was successful 
in all his undertakings, and at the time of his 
death owned over four hundred acres of choice 
farm land, the fruits of his labor and toil. Mr. 
Woodburn was formerly a Democrat, voting for 
Andrew Jackson, but after 1840 he followed the 
fortunes of the Whigs, and after the formation of 
the Republican party united with it, proving one 
of its strongest supporters up to the day of his 
death. His sons, John and James R., are the 
only survivors of his family. 

John Woodburn was born July 2, 1830, in Buf- 
falo township, Washington Co., Penn., and is the 
eldest son of Joseph and Ruth (Garrett) Wood- 
burn. He received a liberal common school edu- 
cation, and a thorough, practical training in agri- 



1320 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



culture on bis father's farm. Ou May 24, 1855, 
be was united in marriage with Sarah A. Jones, who 
was born September 30, 1836, a daughter of 
Alexander and Mary (Dickel) Jones, natives of 
Lancaster county, Penn., who afterward moved to 
Wayne county, Ind. To Mr. and Mrs. Woodburn 
were born eleven children, their names and dates 
of birth being as follows: Luther S., July 29, 
1856 (died September 5, 1861); Alice E., January 
25, 1S57 (married to William Rooney, of Clays- 
ville, Penn.); George J., August 16, 1859 (a farmer 
in East Finley township); Elmer E., January 17, 
1861 (a farmer in Franklin township); Mary E., 
July 2, 1862 (married to E. Ashbrook, of Buffalo 
township); Willie L. , April 27, 1864 (a resident of 
Washington, Penn.); Frank M., December 8, 1865 
(living in Allegheny, Penn.); and James S., Octo- 
ber 1, 1867; Pliney E., February 14, 1869; Ina 
May, January 28, 1871, and Eddie B., July 28, 
1876, all at home. Ou July 1, 1855, Mr. Wood-- 
burn moved to his present well-improved farm, 
situated about two miles south of Claysville, on 
Buffalo creek. He has inherited all the progress- 
ive spirit for which his ancestors were noted, and 
his success in life is due to that, and to his busi- 
ness sagacity, careful management and industry. 
He possesses a wonderful memory, is a most inter- 
esting conversationalist, and can speak of events 
long past with the utmost accuracy and ease. In 
lss? he built one of the finest brick residences in 
East- Finley, and his barn has no superior in the 
township. He and Mrs. Woodburn are members 
of the U. P. Church, and in politics he has been a 
stanch Republican since the formation of that 
party. 



/ 



Warrensburg, Mo.), William (deceased in Texas), 
David and Abraham (deceased in youth), Margaret 
(Mrs. William McHugh, of Taylorstown, Penn.), 
Mary (deceased in youth) and Hannah (de- 
ceased in 1882). Mr. Bryson passed his married 
life on the farm now owned by the family 
of his son Joseph. He was a successful business 
man, and in politics a Republican. He died April 
13, 1878, having been preceded by his wife Sep- 
tember 29, 1872. 

Joseph A. Bryson was born on the home farm, 
in Donegal township, which is situated. about half 
a mile west of Dunsfort, Penn. He always followed 
agricultural pursuits, and remained on the old 
place throughout his life. He died January 5, 
1890, leaving a widow and the following children: 
Mary Jane, Emma L., Nora B. , William H. and 
Charles D. (twins). All of the children are living 
with their mother on the home farm, which is suc- 
cessfully carried on under her management. 



L Mt RS. ISABEL M. BRYSON, widow of 
\/A Joseph A. Bryson, was born June 21, 
■ I 1834, a daughter of Henry L. and Rachel 
- 1 Ann (Nixon) Rizer, and in 1872 was mar- 
ried to Joseph A. Bryson. 
Joseph A. Bryson was born July 19, 1827, of 
Irish descent. His grandfather was born in County 
Donegal, Ireland, and after marriage immigrated 
with his family to America, first locating in Mary- 
land, and afterward settling in the northern part 
of Donegal township, Washington Co., Penn., 
near the union of the Little and Big Buffalo 
streams. He was among the pioneers of the town- 
ship, and passed the remainder of his life on the 
farm, his wife surviving him several years, living 
with the children. 

William Bryson (a son of this old pioneer) was 
born in 1808 in Ireland, and came with his parents 
to Washington county, Penn.; he was united in 
marriage with Hannah Bryson, who was born in 
L792, daughter of John Bryson, an old pioneer of 
the county, and their children were John (living in 



dfOHN LAIRD, a worthy representative of one 
of the oldest families of Donegal township, 
) is a native of the same, born June 4, 1828. 
His paternal grandfather, John Laird, was 
born in Ireland in 1758, and was there married to 
Man' Snodgrass, who bore him children as follows: 
Alexander, Margaret (wife of Joseph Hayburn), 
Robert, Jesse, James and John. He came to the 
United States about 1792, alone, and finding em- 
ployment on a farm, worked diligently until he 
had earned sufficient means to bring his family 
from the " ould sod." Receiving the necessary 
welcome remittance, Mrs. Laird, Alexander, Jesse, 
Margaret and John, Jr. , crossed the broad Atlan- 
tic, and about 1800, after landing, with some diffi- 
culty found their father, who had set out to meet 
them with a team. He brought them to his new 
home in Lancaster county, Penn., and the follow- 
ing year they moved by wagon to Washington 
county, where they made a settlement near Tay- 
lorstown, Mr. Laird having purchased a tract of 
land in Donegal township. John Laird died 
June 3, 1S3S, his wife having preceded him to the 
grave in February, 1829. Politically he was a 
Democrat, and took a lively interest in the advance- 
ment of his adopted country. Robert and James 
Laird, uncles of the subject of this sketch, came 
over subsequently. 

John Laird, son of this pioneer, was born in 
County Donegal, Ireland, in April, 1792, and 
when yet a boy came with the rest of the family 
to the United States and to Washington county, 
where he received his education. When yet a 
young man he was married to Margaret, daughter 
of William and Margaret (Todd) Snodgrass, of 
Donegal township, the former a native of Ireland, 
the latter of Scotland. The children born to Mr. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1321 



and Mrs. Laird were Jesse, Robert, James, Will- 
iam A., John, Mary J. (wife of Samuel Dougherty), 
Grizzella and Margaret (Mrs. S. B. Lindley). The 
mother of this family dying December 15, 1835, 
Mr. Laird married, for his second wife, Agnes 
Maxwell, who died February 8, 1878, leaving one 
child, Ann E. (wife of Dr. John W. Kelly). Mr. 
Laird departed this life July 18, 1847. He was 
one of the first members, and all his life a sub- 
stantial supporter, of the Presbyterian Church at 
Claysville. Politically he was a Democrat, and 
took an active interest in educational matters in 
his locality. Enterprising and energetic, he was 
self made, succeeding by hard labor and unceasing 
toil in amassing, before retiring from active work, 
a comfortable competence. 

John Laird, the subject proper of these lines, 
was reared to farm life, and what education he 
succeeded in securing was obtained at the sub- 
scription schools, but he is chiefly self-educated, 
having devoted much of his spare time to reading 
at home. On January 8, 1852, he was united in 
marriage with Eveline Potter, who was born in 
Marshall county, W. Va., March 11, 1828, a 
daughter of John Potter, a native of Washington 
county, Penn., where he married a Miss Supler, a 
native of Donegal township, same county. Soon 
after their marriage they moved to Marshall, 
county, W. Va. , where they purchased a large 
tract of land and where the father also followed 
milling. They reared a large family of children, 
and resided there until their deaths. Mrs. Laird 
died September 14, 1870. Mr. Laird remained on 
the old home farm in Donegal township until 
1872, in which year he came to Claysville, where 
he has since resided. He is a member of the 
Presbyterian Church, and in politics is a lifelong 
solid Democrat. 



T'jKE PRY FAMILY. Among the well- 
known and prosperous early settlers of 
Washington county, the Pry family takes a 
prominent position. Conrad Pry was a na- 
tive of Germany, and coming to America 
began farming on a place about eight miles from 
Romney, W. Va. His son, Jacob C, was born in 
the latter part of the eighteenth century, in West 
Virginia, where his early life was passed on the 
home farm. He was married when a young man 
to Miss Catherine Barnes, of Hampshire county, 
W. Va. , who bore him the following children: 
Eliza, Elizabeth, Mary, John, Abraham and Will- 
iam. Of these children, Betsey (as she is famil- 
iarly called), married to Samuel Paskel, of Cross 
Creek township, and Abraham (mentioned below) 
are the only ones living. 

Abraham Pry was born November 10, 1813, in 
Hampshire county, W. Va., and his father died 



when he was but four years of age. He learned 
the cooper's trade in early life, but did not continue 
to follow it. When about twenty-two years of age, 
he came to Washington county, locating on 150 
acres in Cross Creek township. In 1840 he was 
united in marriage with Miss Rachel McClurg, of 
Cross Creek township, daughter of David McClurg, 
who came from Ireland, and settled on the farm 
adjoining that of Mr. Pry. Since purchasing his 
farm Mr. Pry has added to the original tract, and 
now has 241 acres. Abraham and Rachel Pry are 
the parents of the following children: David M., 
John W., William H. and Joseph M. (twins, the 
latter now deceased), R. A., Abraham, Ambrose, 
Catherine J., Cynthia Ann, Anna M. and Francis 
H. The father was originally a Democrat, then a 
Whig, finally becoming a Republican, being now 
an active supporter of the latter party. He is a 
regular attendant of and liberal contributor to the 
Cross Creek Presbyterian Church. 

Abraham Pry (son of Abraham and Rachel (Mc- 
Clurg) Pry) was born November 17, 1852, in the 
old home, where he was trained to farm duties 
from early boyhood. On February 22, 1877, he 
was married to Elizabeth A. Dimit, of Independ- 
ence township, this county, who has borne him two 
sons, Brainard K. and Wiley C. He is a Repub- 
lican, to which party the family have always been 
stanch adherents, being actively interested in pro- 
moting the growth of Republican principles. They 
are principally engaged in farming and sheep 
raising, usually wintering three or four hundred 
sheep. Mr. Pry is an influential and prosperous 
citizen, a worthy representative of an honored 
name. 



11 m RS. JANE ANN LEE, a popular and in- 
|\iy| telligent lady of Jefferson township, is a 

I »! I daughter of Samuel Scott, whose father, 

II — Josiah, of Scotch descent, was a resident 
v of Washington county, Penn., where he was 
united in marriage with Jane Noble. Eight chil- 
dren were born to Josiah and Jane (Noble) Scott, 
namely: Samuel, John, Hugh, Alexander, and four 
daughters, whose names have not been ascertained. 

Samuel Scott (the father of our subject) was 
born about the year 1779, near Washington bor- 
ough, where he was trained to agricultural pur- 
suits, which he followed through life. He was 
united in marriage with Miss Mary Ann, daughter 
of William Wiley, a farmer of Washington county, 
and their children were: William W., Josiah N., 
Jane Ann and Samuel G. Of this family, William 
and Josiah N. are deceased, and Samuel G. is a 
prominent farmer of Smith township, this county. 

Jane Ann (Scott) Lee (subject of this sketch) 
was born October 3, 1817, near Washington bor- 
ough, and assisted in the household duties of the 



1322 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



home until she grew to womanhood. Miss Scott 
then attended Washington Female Seminary for 
two years, and was married October 5, 1837, to 
John Lee. His father, Hugh Lee, was a native of 
Ireland, who, emigrating, settled on the farm in 
Cross Creek township, Washington county, Penn., 
where Mr. W. C. Lee is now living. After the 
marriage of John and Jane (Scott) Lee they came 
to the present home farm in Jefferson township, 
where children were born and reared as follows: 
William S., born October 18, 1838; Eliza A., born 
June 13, 1841; Mary M., born March 25, 1843; 
Hannah J., born March 20, 184(5; John C, born 
August 2, 1847; Samuel W., born January 14, 
1850; Hugh, born December 25, 1851; Alice, born 
January 26, 1853; and Lucy, born July 19, 1856, 
all of whom are living. Mr. Lee died April 23, 
1856, and at that time owned over 300 acres of 
fertile farm land, which is kept in an excellent 
state of cultivation by the present owners. In pol- 
itics he was a counselor and adviser of the Whig 
party. In religion he was a member of the Pres 
byterian Church, which he served as trustee and in 
various other capacities. 

Eliza Ann, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John 
Lee, grew to womanhood under the parental roof, 
and was united in marriage December 29, 1859, 
with A. M. Foster. To this union were born four 
children: Lenora, born April 14, 1861; Eliza Jane, 
born April 2, 1862; Harry W., born June 4, 1864; 
and Lee Ellis, born October 2, 1869. Of these 
children, Lee Ellis is the only living member (the 
others having died in youth). He resides with his 
mother and grandmother, and has entire control of 
the home place. 

Hugh Lee, the youngest son of John and Jane 
Ann Lee, was born on the farm in Jefferson town- 
ship, where his mother is now living. He passed 
his younger days in attending the common schools 
of his neighborhood, and assisting in the general 
duties of the home place. On October 7, 1873, he 
was married to Jennie R., daughter of Robert 
Scott, of Burgettstown, Penn. The young couple 
lived on an adjoining farm until they erected their 
present beautiful home (which was built in 1885) 
upon the old place. One son has blessed their 
union: Harry Scott Lee, born October 14, 1874. 
Hugh Lee bears the family name, through which 
he inherits his present home. In politics he has 
always been a stanch Republican. He is a con- 
scientious member of the Cross Creek Presbyterian 
Church. 

I AMES WILSON, a representative of one of 
the pioneer families of Franklin township, 
fr\\ was born December 9, 1821, in that town- 
^^ ship. His grandfather was a native of Mary- 
land, where he was married, and in 1780 
moved to Washington county, settling in Franklin 



township. The country was then very new, and 
Indians were numerous, but he erected a log cabin, 
and with his family braved the dangers and en- 
dured the privations of frontier life. He reared 
the following children: Robert, Douglas, Jane, 
Margaret, Mary, Effie, Sarah, Nancy and Johnson. 
In politics Mr. Wilson was a Democrat, and in 
religion a member of the M. E. Church. 

Robert Wilson was born on the home farm in 
Franklin township, and received a meager educa- 
tion in the common schools. He remained at home 
until some time after his marriage, when he re- 
moved to the farm where he died. He was mar- 
ried to Elizabeth, daughter of Elisha and Mary 
Lacock, and she bore him the following children: 
Emily (Mrs. William Haggerty), Sabrina (Mrs. 
James Powers), Simeon, Eliza (Mrs. James War- 
rick), James, Atlas, Abner and Douglas. Mr. 
Wilson was a liberal contributor to the cause of 
Christianity, although a member of no church. 
In politics he was a Whig, and took an active in- 
terest in all questions pertaining to the welfare of 
the township. 

James Wilson, son of Robert and Elizabeth 
Wilson, was born in Franklin township, Washing- 
ton county, and attended the common schools of 
the neigbboshood, which offered but poor advan- 
tages. In 1847 he was united in marriage with 
Isabella, daughter of John Fulton, a resident of 
Morris township, this county, and to their union 
were born children as follows: Mary (Mrs. Albert 
Lacock), Frank and Victoria (Mrs. Gleason Oonk- 
lin). After his marriage Mr. Wilson settled on 
the farm of 145 acres of valuable land, where he 
still resides, the improvements having been made 
by his own industry. In politics he was originally 
a Whig, and since the formation of the party has 
been a Republican. He has served as assessor 
two terms, and has also been school director nine 
years. He is a liberal supporter of the church. 




ILLIAM T. SAMPSON. The Sampson 
family, of whom this gentleman is a 
worthy representative, are among the 
most influential and wealthy citizens of 
Carroll township. They originally were 
natives of Westmoreland county, Penn., where 
William Sampson was born in 1765. He was mar- 
ried in that county to Mary Nill (who bore him four 
children), and some time after his marriage the 
family moved to Washington county, Penn., where 
the father died in 1815. 

James Sampson, son of William and Mary 
Sampson, was born February 5, 1806, just above 
Webster, on the Monongahela river, in Westmore- 
land county, Penn. He came with his parents to 
this county in 1810, and in 1840 was married to 
Mary Grant, a native of Washington county. She 





yZdtn^/ 



WASHING TON CO UN T Y. 



1325 



bore him seven children, of whom are named Will- 
iam T., Harvey J. and John G. The mother died 
in 18S9. James Sampson has carried on a distill- 
ery for twenty years in connection with farming, 
and now owns 1,250 acres of land. He was pres- 
ident of the Bank of Monongahela City for twenty- 
two years, and is one of the leading citizens of 
Washington county. 

William T. Sampson was born January 22, 1844, 
in Carroll township, Washington Co., Penn., and 
received his education in the schools of the county. 
On May 23, 1876, he was united in marriage with 
Lucretia Welsh, daughter of John and Sarah Jane 
(Bell) Welsh, the former of whom is a farmer of 
Knox county, Ohio, and they have two sons and 
three daughters, namely: Mary B. , Sarah J., John 
\V., Lucretia V. and William K. The home place 
is situated three miles from Monongahela and con- 
tains 265 acres of land, and upon it he raises a 
good quality of stock, besides carrying on general 
farming. Mr. Sampson is a Republican, and has 
served his township as supervisor for several years. 
Mrs. Sampson is a member of the Presbyterian 
Church. 




ILLIAM STOLLAR, an old and success- 
ful farmer of East Finley township, is a 
son of Andrew Stollar, who was born in 
1777 in Schuylkill county, Penn., where 
he was married to Rosanna Ealy, a native of the 
same county, also born in 1777, a daughter of 
George Ealy, who afterward moved to Washington 
county. The following children were born to their 
union: Rosamond, Peter, Christina, Catherine 
(residing in Illinois), Henry (living in Claysville, 
this county), William (subject of sketch), Daniel, 
Mollie (living in West Finley township, this county), 
and one deceased in infancy, unnamed; all except 
the two last named were born in Schuylkill county, 
Penn. In 1818 Mr. Stollar packed a wagon with 
household goods, and crowding, with the family, 
inside, moved to Washington county, locating about 
two miles south of Washington, where they re- 
mained a short time, thence moving to East Finley 
township, settled in the midst of a partially cleared 
wilderness, about half a mile north of East Finley 
postoffice, and there, in the new home, their two 
younger children were born. Mr. Stollar died in 
1846, and January 5, 1863, his wife followed him 
to the "undiscovered country." 

William Stollar was born January 16, 1813, in 
Schuylkill county, Penn., and was brought, with 
his father's family, to Washington county, where 
he received very little schooling, as his parents 
were poor and needed his aid in the farm work. 
He remained at home until he reached the age of 
maturity, and, on October 18, 1833, was united in 
marriage with Annie Rockefeller, of East Fiuley 



township, born October 30, 1818, daughter of Na- 
than Rockefeller, and they had the following chil- 
dren: Rosanna, born September 20, 1835 (de- 
ceased); Nathan, born January 19, 1838 (a farmer, 
living in East Finley township); John, born May 
17, 1840 (residing in Nebraska); Rachel, born May 
5, 1842 (living in East Finley township); Andrew, 
born July 17, 1844 (a resident of East Finley town- 
ship); Nancy, born April 28, 1850 (residing in 
Washington, Penn.); Henry, born January 14, 
1853 (deceased in infancy), and two other children 
(deceased in infancy). Mrs. Stollar died January 
19, 1854, and in 1855 Mr. Stollar was married to 
Susanna Martin, who was born January 9, 1822, 
daughter of Daniel Martin, and their children 
were as follows: Daniel, born March 1, 1856 
(deceased May 22, 1858); Margaret Jane, born 
April 13, 1858 (living in Morris township, this 
county), and Mary Elizabeth, born December 15, 
1861 (living in Johnstown, Penn.). The mother 
of these children died November 26, 1877, and in 
1885 Mr. Stollar was married to Rebecca Bedill 
ion, born January 3, 1845, daughter of John 
Bedillion, of Frankliu township. 

In 1834 Mr. Stollar moved to his present farm 
(then an unbroken wilderness, which he himself 
cleared), situated about one mile and a quarter 
south of East Finley postoffice, in East Finley 
township, and continued to follow farming with 
marked success until he retired from active life to 
enjoy the fruits of early toil. He has been a Re- 
publican since the formation of the party. In 
church relation he is a member of the Valley M. 
E. Church; Lub wife is a member of the C. P. 
Church at Bethel. 




*\ ILLIAM PRIGO. Of that noble army of 
stalwart pioneers who braved so many 
dangers and endured such innumerable 
hardships in the early settlement of 
Washington county, none can claim greater prom- 
inence than the Prigg family. 

Samuel Prigg, the first of the name to settle in 
the county, was a native of Maryland, whence, when 
a young man, he came with his parents to Buffalo 
township, where Salem Flack now resides, and- 
here built and operated a tannery for some years; 
later he settled in Canton township. In his native 
State he had been apprenticed to a tanner, with 
whom he thoroughly learned the trade, and after 
following the same for many years, finally settled 
on a farm, where he passed the remainder of his 
days. While yet a young man he married Hetty 
Day, a resident of Washington county, and the 
children born of this union were: John, Robert, 
Samuel, Margaret, Rebecca, William, Enoch D. 
and James. The father died about 1855, the 
mother about 1853. They were zealous members 






1326 



IVASHIXGTOX COUXTY. 



of the Baptist Church, and in politics Mr. Prigg 
was an Old-school Democrat, an ardent supporter 
of the principles of Jefferson and Jackson, and one 
of the organizers of the party in his township. 

William Prigg was born August 6, 1815, in Can- 
ton township, this county, and was reared a typical 
"farmer boy." His schooling, which was limited 
to a few weeks in the winter time, was obtained at 
the primitive establishments of learning in vogue 
at that time. During his early manhood, when he 
first started out for himself, his life was one of 
continual hard work, and it was then that he more 
particularly manifested those traits of character 
which have made him so well known in this sec- 
tion. In company with his brother, Enoch D., he 
purchased a farm, on which they lived, keeping 
''bachelor's hall," working and improving the same 
until they bought another tract, when they divided 
their holdings, the old home place falling to 
Enoch's share. William is now the owner of 250 
acres of land in Canton township, and is rated as 
one of its most successful and substantial citizens. 
On October 6, 1856, Mr. Prigg married Rebecca, 
daughter of Joseph Mountz. The young couple 
took up their residence on the Prigg farm, where 
they remained fifteen years, then moved to the 
Wolf farm, and in 1886 came to their present 
place of residence. The children born of their 
union were: Samuel (deceased), Jackson (married 
to Margaret McQuay). William (married to Nora 
Weaver), and Joseph. Like the family generally. 
in politics, Mr. Prigg has maintained the princi- 
ples of the Democratic party, but in voting, as far 
as county and township politics are concerned, he 
is Independent. A lifelong member of the Pres- 
byterian Church, he has ever been one of its most 
active workers and liberal supporters, and lets not 
his left hand know what his right hand doeth. 

[since the above was written, we have received infor- 
mation of the death of Mr. William Prigg. — En. 



AMUEL W. CARSON, the oldest living 
representative of the Carson family in 
Washington county, was born January 24, 
1838, and is a son of Thomas and Mary 
(Wright) Carson. Isaac Carson, his grandfather, 
was born and married in eastern Pennsylvania, 
whence he came to this county, becoming one of 
the earliest settlers of Buffalo township, and a 
prosperous farmer. His children were as follows: 
James, born April 17, 1798; Thomas, born Sep- 
tember 30, 1800; Adam, born June 20, 1803; Mary 
(Mrs. William Bell), born February 14, 1806 
Rebecca (Mrs. William Ely), born May 18, 1808 
Ann (Mrs. William Wright), born April 1."., 1810 
Margaret (Mrs. Albongh), born May 27, 1812 
Isaac, born Julv 22, 1815; Samuel, born January 
25, 1819, and Jane, born May 2, 1821. The par- 



ents of this family lie buried side by side in North 
Buffalo cemetery: they were members of the 
Seceder Church, and in politics he was a Whig. 

Thomas Carson, father of our subject, was mar- 
ried in 1829 to Mary, daughter of Samuel Wright, 
and the children by this union are Rachel (Mrs. 
H. C. Noble), Isaac, Samuel W. and Leman. 
After marriage Mr. Carson continued to reside on 
the home place, where he carried on farming and 
stock raising, and where he and his wife passed 
the remainder of their busy lives, the father dying 
January 5, 1865, and the mother January 5, 1876^ 
they were consistent members of the United Pres- 
byterian Church, and in politics Mr. Carson was 
an ardent Democrat. 

Samuel W. Carson lived nearly half a century 
on the place of his birth, and in 1885 moved to his 
present commodious residence, where he has a fine 
farm of 200 acres, besides which he has another 
tract of K'O acres in the western part of the town- 
ship. He has always been engaged in farming, 
and has met with well-merited success. On 
December 24, 1874, he was married to Margaret 
A., daughter of Abraham Zigler, a native of Cum- 
berland county, Penn. , where he married, and had 
the following named children: Alexander, Mary, 
Margaret A., Dora, John, Sadie, Agnes and Mar- 
tha. The Zigler family are all members of the 
Presbyterian Church at Claysville (near which 
town they reside), and in politics he is a Democrat. 
The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Carson were 
Frank, Mac, Etta B., Mary (deceased), Van R., 
Wright, Otto (deceased) and S. C. The family 
are members of the Presbyterian Church at Clays- 
ville; in politics Mr. Carson is a Democrat, and 
has been one of the party's leaders in his section 
for years. He has served his township in several- 
capacities with much merit, and for the past six 
years has been a member of the school board. 



JOHN M. GRIFFITH, a well known citizen 
and prosperous dairyman of Mt. Pleasant 
i township, is a graadson of John Griffith. 
His great-grandfather, John Griffith, was 
born in Wales and married Letitia Blackburn. 
They settled in Mt. Pleasant township, and some 
of the family located in Maryland in 1765. 
Their son, John Griffith, (grandfather of subject), 
came to Mt. Pleasant township, and settled on the 
old Griffith homestead, where he died. 

Isaac Griffith, father of our subject, was born, 
in 1800, on the home farm in Mt. Pleasant town- 
ship, on the headwaters of Raccoon creek, 
where he grew to manhood. He married Eliza- 
beth Esler, a native of Mt, Pleasant township, who 
bore him the following children: Robert (living in 
Cass county, Mo.), John M. (our subject). James 
M. (assassinated in Arizona), Isaac M. (deceased), 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1327 



Jane (Mrs. T. M. Berryhill, of Mt. Pleasant town- 
ship), Lizzie (unmarried, living at Hickory, this 
county), Letitia (wife of T. M. Liggett, of Inde- 
pendence township) and Hattie Ann (wife of John 
Liggett, also of Independence township). Mr. 
Griffith followed farming, and in politics was first 
a Whig, then a Know-nothing, and finally a Re- 
publican. In religious belief he and his wife 
were members of the Presbyterian Church at Mt. 
Prospect. He died in 1867, and his wife in 1857. 

John M. Griffith was born March 17, 1842, in 
Mt, Pleasant township, this county, and was edu- 
cated in the schools of Hickory, attending also six 
weeks at the normal school; he afterward taught 
school several terms in Washington county. On 
October 22, 1863, he was united in marriage with 
Mary Lyle Smith, a native of Smith township, 
and a daughter of Ebenezer and Margaret (Lyle) 
Smith, natives of Cross Creek township. Mr. 
Smith carried on a commercial business in Smith 
township, this county, for several years, and was a 
Republican. He and his wife both died in Smith 
township. Mrs. Griffith has two sisters living: 
Sarah Margaretta (wife of A. M. Russell) and 
Jennie O. (wife of Samuel Farrar), both residents 
of Mt. Pleasant township. 

Mr. and Mrs. Griffith began life on their pres- 
ent farm, which contains 140 acres of well -culti- 
vated land, where they conduct a profitable dairy 
business, milking an average of eighteen cows per 
day. He built his residence in 1862, and remod- 
eled it in 1892. In politics Mr. Griffith was for- 
merly a Republican, but is now a zealous Prohibi- 
tionist, and he cast the first Prohibition party vote 
in his township; in 1888 he was nominated for the 
State Legislature on the Prohibition ticket. He 
and his wife are connected with the Mt. Pleasant 
United Presbyterian Church at Hickory, in which 
he is a ruling elder. They have two children: 
Maggie Venalla and Edwin Smith, both at home, 
the former of whom attended Washington Semi- 
nary, and graduated from Geneva College in 1888; 
the latter is at present attending Hickory Academy. 



iT^-EORGE W. LUELLEN is a grandson of 

I Henry Luellen, who came from the banks 

II J of theOcheeche river in " Old Virginia," to 
^^t Amwell township, Washington Co., Penn., 

about 1783, and locating on the farm now 
owned by Grant Moninger, took up 200 acres of 
land. He was united in marriage with a Miss 
Barnet, of Washington county, and to their union 
were born three sons and four daughters: Asa, 
Luellen (deceased), Mrs. Betsey Slusher (deceased), 
Jessie (deceased), Reason (deceased), Polly (Mrs. 
Kearn), and Mrs. Millie Featherland (deceased). 
Mr. Luellen spent the rest of his life on the farm, 
and was successful in business. 



Reason Luellen, son of Henry, was born in 
1795, on the old home farm in Amwell township, 
this county, where he passed his life, receiving a 
limited education in the schools of the period. He 
was married to Sarah Pettit, who bore him the 
following children: Charles, George W., Jonathan, 
Bowen (deceased), Henry and Andrew Jackson (the 
last named being deceased). The mother of these 
children dying, Mr. Luellen was united in mar- 
riage with a Miss Reynolds, and they had two 
children: Sarah (Mrs. Riggle), and Simon, who 
died in the army. Mr. Luellen devoted his life to 
farming, and owned a good farm of 180 acres in 
Amwell township, Washington county, also about 
three hundred and sixty acres in Iowa. He died 
on the old farm in 1858, in his sixty-third year. 

George W. Luellen was born in 1825 on the old 
homestead in Amwell township, Washington county, 
and remained at home until twenty-five years of 
age, receiving a common -school education. In 
1850 he was married to Miss Rebecca Thomp- 
son, of Amwell township, who has borne him four 
children: Mary Ann (Mrs. Closser), Margaret 
Ellen (Mrs. Russell), Allison (deceased), and 
Emma (Mrs. Swart). Mr. Luellen has a good 
farm of 150 acres in Amwell township, and has 
been a busy and successful mau. In politics he 
has always been a Democrat, and has held the 
office of road commissioner three terms, or nine 
years. Now sixty-seven years of age, he is a 
strong, healthy man, and has yet the promise of 
many useful and happy years to come. 



< 



M(RS. ELIZA JANE KIDD, one of the 
most estimable and intelligent ladies of 
Jefferson township, is a daughter of Robert 
Stewart, whose father was born in County 
Down, Ireland, where he was married to 
Betsey Hemphill. In 1812 the family set out for 
America; during the voyage the ship (as was the 
custom in times of war) was boarded by a British 
man-of-war in search of recruits for the navy, and 
several able-bodied men were pressed into the 
British regular service. The son Robert (then a 
young man of eighteen years) was one of them, 
and heserved three weeks in the navy, but at the end 
of that time he was released by his father paying a 
ransom. The family finally arrived at Philadelphia, 
Penn., without further mishap, aud thence pro- 
ceeded to Hickory, Washington Co., Penn., where 
they made a permanent settlement. The son, 
Robert Stewart, was soon afterward married to 
Miss Ann McGaugh, who was born January 27, 
1794, in Londonderry, Ireland, and their children 
were John, Eliza Jane, Sarah, Robert, James and 
Andrew. The living members of this family are 
Robert, James and Eliza Jane. 

Eliza Jane Stewart was born March 19, 1820, 



132S 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



on the home farm in Jefferson township, and as- 
sisted her mother with the household duties during 
uer girlhood. She was united in marriage with 
David, son of Joseph Kidd, a native and life 
resident of Ireland, of whose family David was the 
only member to settle in America. After their 
marriage the young people settled in Guernsey 
county, Ohio, where they resided fifteen years, and 
reared the following children: Sarah, born July 
12, 1850; Ann Jane, born October 10, 1852; Mary 
E., born February 5, 1855; Robert, born January 
14, 1857; Agnes, born August 30, 1860, and 
Rebecca (wife of George Boles), born March 31, 
1864. 

On July 13, 1868, David Kidd passed away, and 
his widow then returned to Jefferson township, 
and bought the farm of 177 acres where she is 
now living. This farm consists of very fine land, 
upon which is a grist and saw mill, both in con- 
stant operation. Mrs. Kidd is a consistent mem- 
ber of the Presbyterian Church, and is loved and 
respected by all who know her. She has in her 
possession a cane which was used by Gen. Murray, 
who fought under Washington in the Revolu- 
tionary war. 



JV. OLARK passed his early life in Mt. 
Pleasant township, Washington Co.,Penn., 
I receiving his education at the common schools 
of West Middletown, and at Washington and 
Jefferson College. On December 8, 1 886, 
he was united in marriage with Mary E. , daughter 
of Rev. Samuel Taggart. 

Samuel Taggart, a leading clergyman of this 
county, was born March 26, 1803, in County An- 
trim, Ireland, son of John Taggart, who was also 
born in Ireland, and there married Mary B. Con- 
uahon, who bore him three sons: James, John and 
Samuel. John Taggart was an extensive cattle 
dealer. He died in Ireland and in 1820 the fam- 
ily immigrated to America, landing at Montreal, 
where James had previously settled and engaged 
in the shoe business. John and Mrs. Taergart 
afterward came to Pittsburgh, Penn., where the 
mother died. John engaged in shoe manufactur- 
ing at Pittsburgh, being very successful in that 
business. He was married to Elizabeth Orr, of 
Pittsburgh, who bore him the following children: 
John, Robert, Samuel, William, Mary A., Tillie 
and Lizzie. He was a Democrat, and in religion 
a member of the Associate Reformed Church. 

Samuel Taggart passed his youth in Montreal 
and Pittsburgh. He first attended the Western 
University, and then entered the Theological Sem- 
inary of Allegheny, from which he graduated in 
1S34. On July 18, 1839, he was married to Mar- 
garet, daughter of Robert McAyeal, who was born 
in 1784, in Belfast, Ireland, where he was reared 



and educated. He emigrated when a young man, 
and coming to Pittsburgh, Penn., engaged in 
mercantile business. He was there married to 
Rebecca Matthews, whose family came from Ire- 
land when she was but six years of age, and set- 
tled in Wilmington, Del., where the remainder of 
their lives was passed. Their children were: 
Margaret (Mrs. Samuel Taggart), Sarah, James, 
Robert, Rebecca (Mrs. Alexander McKeever), 
Nancy (wife of Rev. Reed), and Mary (married to 
Dr. McComey). In politics Mr. McAyeal was at 
first a Democrat, and then a Republican. He was 
a member of the Covenanter Church, and died in 
1865, at the age of eighty-one years. His wife 
followed him to the grave May 1, 1889, in her 
ninety -sixth year. 

Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Taggart had three chil- 
dren, namely: Robert, Samuel A. and Mary E. 
(Mrs. J. V. Clark). His first charge was at West 
Middletown and at Mt. Vernon, where he remained 
fifteen years, then lived in Harmony, 111., eighteen 
months, when he returned to West Middletown, 
where he passed the remainder of his ministerial 
life, retiring in 1884. He was a Free-Soil man 
and afterward joined the Republican party. He 
died October 21, 1885. 

To the union of J. V. and Mary E. (Taggart) 
Clark was born one daughter, Margaret. In 1885 
Mr. Clark engaged in general mercantile business, 
in which he has siuce continued. In politics he is 
an active member of the Republican party, and he ' 
is an energetic and prosperous business man. He 
is a member of the U. P. Church at West Middle - 
town. 



JiOHN FINLEY KENNEDY, one of the most 
energetic business men of Washington coun- 
ty, is a grandson of Samuel Kennedy (a 
farmer), who was born of Irish parents, 
and grew to manhood in Union township, 
Washington Co., Penn. John and Martha (Young) 
Kennedy, parents of Samuel Kennedy, were born 
in County Antrim, Ireland, and came to America, 
the father at the age of twenty-one years, the 
mother when quite small. She was married to 
John Kennedy at the age of thirteen and one-half 
years, he being twenty-four years old. They first 
lived at Coal Hill (then called Fort Pitt, now 
Pittsburgh, S. S.). From Fort Pitt they moved to 
Mingo, where they passed the remainder of their 
days, John Kennedy dying in 1842, in his eighty- 
second year, his wife in 1847, when seventy-six 
years old. Twelve children were born to them, of 
whom two died in infancy, and ten lived to good 
old age. In early manhood Samuel Kennedy mar- 
ried Elizabeth McVey, who bore him the following 
named children: Thomas, Hannah A., John, 
Martha, James K, Joseph M., Mary and Samuel 




' 1 




WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1331 



L. In politics be was a Federalist, and in relig- 
ious faith a member of tbe Mingo Presbyterian 
Church. 

Thomas Kennedy, son of Samuel and Elizabeth 
(McVey) Kennedy, was born in 1825, on the home 
place in Union township, Washington Co., Penn. 
He learned the trade of cooper, but followed car- 
pentering. On December 9, 1845, he was united 
in marriage with Hannah E. , daughter of William 
and Nancy (Osbnrn) Roberts, of Carroll township, 
this county. They settled on the home place in 
Union township, where three children were born to 
them, namely: J. F. , W. A. and Samuel D. In 
politics Mr. Kennedy was a Whig and Republican; 
in church connection he was a member of the 
Mingo Presbyterian Congregation. 

J. F. Kennedy was born November 10, 1846, in 
Union township, Washington Co., Penn., where 
he remained until eighteen yearsof age. He then 
became bookkeeper for S. B. Kennedy, of Pitts- 
burgh, Penn., and was afterward a partner in the 
coal business; then worked two years in the oil 
fields of Tidioute, Warren county, same State. 
After leaving that place he conducted a mercantile 
business at Huston's Run, thence moving to Court- 
ney, Union township, Washington county, where 
he resided eighteen years. He was interested in the 
coal mines at that place twelve years and served 
as postmaster for nine years. He now owns a 
store and butcher shop. He has thirty acres of 
land, also eight dwellings in Courtney, and he 
erected the first house in the village; has an inter- 
est in the Courtney Fire-Brick Works. He gives 
considerable attention to stock, including the 
breeding of trotting and pacing horses, and has 
Jersey cattle for sale. On June 3, 1872, Mr. 
Kennedy married Sarah E., daughter of Andrew 
Gault. Our subject is a Republican, and has 
served his township in many ways; was appointed 
coroner by Governor Beaver, and re-elected in 
1887; was elected a justice of the peace of Union 
township. He is a member of Courtney Presby- 
terian Church. 




lady. They have two children, Elizabeth Lenore 
and David Rea, both living at home. Since his 
marriage W. H. Buchanan has resided on the 
home farm, consisting of 300 acres of well-im- 
proved and valuable farm land; he gives consider- 
able attention to sheep raising, having many very 
fine animals, some of which are registered 
in the United States and the Delaine Registers. 
Mr. Buchanan belongs to the progressive type of 
farmers and is a public-spirited citizen, well fitted 
to manage the extensive real estate which he owns. 
In politics he is a Democrat, and in religion he and 
his wife are members of the Lower Buffalo Presby- 
terian Church at Independence. 



H. BUCHANAN, a prosperous and en- 
ergetic young farmer of Independence 
township, is a son of David and Fannie 
(Hamilton) Buchanan. Our subject was 
born March 24, 1863, in the house where he is now 
living, and received his elementary instruction in 
the common schools; he afterward attended Beth- 
any College, West Virgiuia, and also college at 
Canonsburg, Penn. He and his brother then began 
farming on the home place. On June 1, 1887, he 
was united in marriage with Winnie, daughter of 
C. C. Rea, of Cross Creek township, this county. 
She attended Cross Creek Academy, and taught 
school five years, being an educated and intelligent 



dl AMES THOME, one of the oldest living 
I members of the family of that name, was 
] born in August, 1816, in North Strabane 
township, Washington Co. , Penn. His grand- 
father, James Thome, was a native of Dauphin 
county, Penn. He was married and had six 
children, viz. : William, John, James, Margaret, 
Samuel and Abigail. Of these James was born in 
Dauphin county, same State, and there received 
such education as the subscription schools of the 
period afforded. Not being satisfied with the out- 
look for success in his native county, so far as he 
was individually interested, he came to Washing- 
ton county about the time of the " Whiskey Insur- 
rection," was with Washington during this insur- 
rection, and purchased, in North Strabane town- 
ship, the farm now occupied by his son, James. 
Their first humble dwelling thereon was a rude 
cabin built of hewn logs. Many improvements 
were made by Mr. Thome and his family, and the 
once forest-grown wilderness was to a great extent 
brought to its present high state of fertility 
through their unceasing toil. Mr. Thome was 
united in marriage with Abbie Hill, who bore him 
the following named children: Jane (deceased), 
William, John, Abbie (wife of James Pollock), 
Margaret (wife of Rev. Bankhead Boyd), James 
(subject) and Samuel (deceased). The father of 
this family died in May, 1861. He and his wife 
were members of the Seceder Church, in which 
Mr. Thome was an elder for many years. In pol- 
itics he was a Whig. 

James Thome received a good common-school 
training, and was early inducted into the mysteries 
of agriculture, and the hard, never-ceasing work 
incident to that vocation. On April 13, 1S43, he 
was married to Eliza, daughter of James McNary, 
of Nottingham township, which union has been 
blessed with six children, as follows: Abbie (wife 
of Rev. D. C. Wilson), Annie (wife of William 
Martin), Rev. J. L. , William, Samuel and Emma. 
After marriage Mr. Thome settled permanently on 
the home farm, where he successfully cultivated the 



1332 



WA SHIXG TON CO UX TV. 



soil, bat. has retired from active work and is now 
passing the last days of his useful life in the en- 
joyment of the fruits of his toil. Mr. and Mrs. 
Thome are members of the United Presbyterian 
Church at Pigeon Creek. In politics he was first 
a Whig, but for many years back he has been 
an uncompromising Democrat, and has been 
supervisor a number of years. He has been emi- 
nently successful in all his pursuits, and to-day is 
the owner of 250 acres of highly-improved land. 
He is proverbially kind-hearted and charitable, 
and his hospitality is of the genuine old-fashioned 
kind. 



JOHN A. HUNTER, a skilled builder and 
contractor of McDonald borough, is descended 
from natives of the Emerald Isle, whence so 
many of our most enterprising antl worthy 
citizens trace their origin. 

Robert Hunter first saw the light of day in 
County Down, Ireland, where he grew to manhood 
and was married. The young people soon after 
ward set sail for America, immediately after their 
arrival proceeding to Washington county, and 
settling in Cecil township. A log cabin was soon 
erected and the work of clearing the farm begun, 
which he continued until his death. The children 
born to them were Mary (wife of Alexander Jef- 
frey), Elizabeth (Mrs. Lindsey I, Jane (Mrs. Hunter) 
and John. Robert Hunter and his family were 
members of the Presbyterian Church at Miller's 
Run, of which he was au active supporter. In 
politics he was au active member of the Whig 
party. His wife died in 1854, at the age of 
ninety-six years. 

John Hunter was born in Cecil township, this 
county, on the Hunter homestead, and passed his 
youth in attending the country schools, receiving 
a good education. He was married to Nancy 
Greer, a native of eastern Pennsylvania, who bore 
him children as follows: Elizabeth, Mary, Robert, 
George, John A., Margaret, William (who enlisted 
in Company D, Tenth Pennsylvania Reserves, and 
died in the service), Joseph, James and Nancy J. 
The father of this family followed agricultural 
pursuits. In political opinion he was first a Whig, 
then a Democrat; and in religious connection was 
a stanch member of the Covenanter Church, in 
which faith he died in 1868, being followed by his 
wife in 1878; both are buried in the Covenanter 
Church cemetery. 

John A. Hunter was born January 19, lS3(i. in 
Cecil township, this county, and received a com- 
mon-school education. He began farming for 
himself at the age of seventeen years; in 1870 he 
came to McDonald, here following the business of 
a builder and contractor, and he has erected the 
majority of the buildings in the town. On July 3, 



1861, he was married to Mattie A., daughter of 
Williarn Harper; the latter was a son'of Robert 
Harper, a native of Ireland, who was there married, 
and, afterward coming to America, settled in Cecil 
township- at an early day. He was a Whig in 
politics, and in religious faith a member of the 
Seceder Church. His son, William Harper, was 
reared and educated in Cecil township, this county, 
and in early manhood was married to Mary, 
daughter of John Lindsey, of Cecil township; 
their children were Mattie A., David, Marv, 
Tamar, Wilson, Joseph and Melissa. The father 
followed agriculture and stock raising; in politics 
he was formerly a Whig, and united with the 
Republicans upon the formation of the party. 

To the union of John A. and Mattie A. (Harper) 
Hunter, two children have been born: Addie G. 
(deceased) and William J. Mr. Hunter votes the 
Republican ticket, and in religion he is a member 
and trustee of the United Presbvterian Church. 




JLLIAM E. CRAFT, a representative of 
one of the prominent pioneer families of 
Washington county, was born in 1816 
in this county. His great-grandfather, 
John Craft, was a native of Maryland, 
and removed to Washington cguuty before the 
Revolution, being among the first settlers of the 
locality- He reared four sons, viz.: Lawrence, 
John, Thomas and William. 

Lawrence Craft was born in 1750. He married 
Annie Thompson, a native of Winchester, Va., and 
became the father of five children: John. Thomas, 
William, Linda (wife of Benjamin Hoagland) and 
a son who died in infancy. William, the father of 
the subject of this sketch, was born in 1789 in 
Morris township, Washington Co., Penn. He 
married Mary Elliot, who was born in 179-1, a 
daughter of William Elliot, an old pioneer of 
this section. To this union eleven children were 
born, as follows: Betsy, Lawrence, Annie, Will- 
iam E., Martha, Melinda, Jane. David, George, 
Isaac and Mary. Of these, nine lived to maturity. 
Martha, Jane, David, George and William E. are 
at present the only surviving members. 

William E. Craft was born on his father's farm, 
where his boyhood was passed. He was first mar- 
ried in 1853 to Martha, daughter of John Cooper, 
of Morris township, and to this union were bom 
three children: Alice (wife of W. S. Waters, of 
Franklin township), born October 7, 1850; Harriet, 
born August 31, 1858, resides with her father, and 
Martha Jane, born November 14, 1860, wife of 
Randolph Rush, of Prosperity. Mrs. Craft died 
December 2, I860, and on June 14, lSlilj, Mr. 
Craft was married to Mary J., daughter of George 
McCarrahan. To this union were born children 
as follows: Ida D., born July 10, 1867; Maggie 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1333 



E.,born April 30, 1869; William E., born July 
25, 1872, and Edgar, born January 30, 1876, all 
living at home. The mother of these children 
died August 24, 1891. The farm owned by Mr. 
Craft, lying along what is known as Craft's creek, 
two and onedialf miles west of Prosperity, is a 
fine one, and yields a good income. Mr. Craft 
has always voted with the Democratic party, 
though he is not an active politician. He is a 
worthy member of the Mt. Zion M. E. Church. 



land Presbyterian Church, and has served a num- 
ber of years as superintendent of the Sunday- 
school. 



fjOHN C. BALDWIN, one of the most pros- 
perous citizens of West Finley township, is a 
Vjj grandson of William Baldwin, who was born 
^^ in Franklin township, Washington Co., 
Penn., and there grew to manhood. When the 
war of 1812 began, he was among the first to vol- 
unteer his services, and remained in the war until 
the close. He was afterward married, and reared 
a family of eight children: Thomas, Phoebe, 
Jonathan, Silas, Seely, Cephas, Amos and Frank 
(deceased in youth). 

Thomas Baldwin was born about 1820, on the 
farm in Franklin township, and received his early 
education at the subscription schoolhouse, with its 
puncheon floor and slab seats. When about 
twenty-one years of age he learned the trade of a 
cabinet maker, which he followed several years. 
He was united in marriage with Miss Regina 
Schrontz, and their children were as follows: Eliza- 
beth (Mrs. Miller), Francis F. (lieutenant in an Iowa 
regiment, who was killed near Dallas, Ga., while 
cheering on his men), Jacob S., Milton, John C. , 
Mrs. Mary Booth, Silas, Begina and Anna M., of 
whom the latter three died in early life. After 
saving some money by following his trade, Mr. 
Baldwin bought a farm and devoted the summer 
season to its cultivation. - 

John C. Baldwin was born February 19, 1846, 
in Amwell township, Washington Co., Penn., and 
passed most of his earlier years in farming. At 
the age of twenty- one he taught a term of school, 
and the following winter entered Waynesburgh 
College. He continued to attend school and teach 
alternately for three years, and during this period 
became acquainted with a fellow student, Melissa 
Ann McMay, who graduated in 1872. The friend- 
ship of the young students continued to grow, and 
after his graduation, on April 24, 1873, they were 
united in marriage. Mr. Baldwin then engaged 
in the mercantile business in the little town of 
Belle Vernon, Fayette Co., Penn., but a year later 
began farming, which vocation he has since suc- 
cessfully followed. Mr. and Mrs. Baldwin have 
nine children, all of whom are living with their 
parents. In political life, he is a stanch Repub- 
lican, and has been justice of the peace fourteen 
years. In religion he is an elder in the Cumber- 



JfOHN W. BOYER. The well-known family 
in Washington county, of which this gentle- 
man is a member, were represented among 
the earliest of early pioneers. The ancestors 
in this country were natives of New Jersey, 
in which State James Boyer passed his early youth, 
among the peaceful Society of Friends. When a 
young man he came to Pennsylvania, and, pur- 
chasing a farm in Peters township, Washington 
county, was there married to Nancy, daughter of 
Col. William Blackmore. Five children were born 
to this marriage, namely: John, Amy, Samuel, 
Peter, and Sarah (wife of Carvel Rigdon, a brother 
of Rigdon, the Mormon preacher), none of whom 
are yet living. 

Samuel Boyer, son of James and Nancy Boyer, 
was born in 1784, in Peters township, Washington 
Co., Penn. He attended the subscription schools 
of the neighborhood, then taught several terms in 
Beaver county, Penn. He was united in mar- 
riage with Mary Boyer, who was born in 1803, 
daughter of Leonard Boyer, of Bethel township, 
Allegheny Co., Penn. Samuel and Mary Boyer 
resided in Beaver county, Penn., for six years after 
their marriage, then returning to Washington 
county, lived on the old home place sis years. 
They finally bought and moved upon the Higbee 
farm, adjoining the old homestead, where they 
died, leaving children as follows: James B. , de- 
ceased; Peter, living near Library, Allegheny 
county; John W. ; Elizabeth, deceased wife of 
David Higbee; Nancy, married to E. T. Townsend, 
of Peters township; Amy, deceased wife of D. 
Welch, of Limetown, and Lucinda, second wife of 
her brother-in-law, David Higbee. 

John W. Boyer, whose name opens this sketch, 
was born August 16, 1828, on the home place in 
Peters township, this county, where he was trained 
to agricultural pursuits. On December 10, 1857, 
he was united in marriage with Margaret J. Town- 
send, who was born in 1840, daughter of Joseph 
Townsend. The latter was a son of Daniel Town- 
send, who was born August 14, 1747, in Egg 
Harbor City, N. J., where he grew to manhood and 
engaged in the lumber business. In 1776 he en- 
tered tho Revolutionary war, serving about two 
years, participating in the battles of Trenton. 
Princeton, Brandywine, and Monmouth. In 1779 he 
came to Washington county, Penn. .bought 400 acres 
of land of Joshua Wright, and settled permanently 
upon that tract. He was married to Lydia Sawens, 
of Massachusetts, who bore him children as fol- 
lows: Catherine (Mrs. John Baird, of Beaver 
county), Naomi (Mrs. Uriah Burton), Julia (wife of 



1334 



WASHINGTON COUN T Y. 



Peters Sharp), Margaret (wife of William Chisler, 
of Ohio), Rebecca (Mrs. John Hozer, of Mercer 
county, Penn.), Ruth (Mrs. Stephen Higbee, of 
Ohio), Lydia (wife of Arthur Devote), Elijah (a 
lieutenant in the war of 1812), and Joseph, all of 
whom were married, and are now deceased. The 
father was a Democrat in politics; he died Sep- 
tember 1, 1833. 

Joseph Townsend, son of Daniel and Lydia 
(Sawens) Townsend, was born March 1, 1796, on 
the old place in Washington Co., Penn. He lived 
at home until fifteen years of age, then entered 
the war of 1812 as a fifer, but was brought home 
by his father. A few years later the juvenile war- 
rior had so far modified his views as to prefer 
rural life. He became an excellent farmer, and 
devoted much attention to sheep raising. In early 
life he was united in marriage with Nancy, daugh- 
ter of Col. William Blackmore, and granddaughter 
of Samuel Blackmore. The latter owned 400 acres 
on the site of the present city of Washington. The 
property was leased for ninety- nine years, which 
expired in 1870, the heirs having never claimed it. 
William Blackmore, son of Samuel, came with his 
family from Washington, D. O, to Washington 
Co., Penn., and there reared six children, viz.: 
Thomas, Charles, Nancy (Mrs. Townsend), Eliza, 
Ellen, and Arabella, all now deceased but Nancy. 
To Joseph and Nancy Townsend were born three 
children, namely: Charles W., Daniel B., and 
William (deceased in youth). The mother died 
September 5, 1833, and in 1834 Joseph Townsend 
was married to Nancy, daughter of Robert Flack. 
Her father was born in Ireland, and about 1800 
emigrated to this country, settling on Chartiers 
creek, in Peters township, Washington Co., 
Penn. To Joseph and Nancy Townsend were 
born three children, viz. : Robert (deceased), 
Elijah T., and Margaret J. (Mrs. J. W. Boyer, of 
Finleyville). The father voted with the Demo- 
cratic party, and in religion was a member of the 
Baptist Church. He died on his seventy-fifth 
birthday, March 1, 1871, being followed by his 
wife in August, 1874, in her seventy- fifth year. 

John W. and Margaret J. Boyer first located on 
h small farm near Bower Hill, in Peters township, 
this county, where they lived five years, during 
which time he dealt extensively in stock. He 
afterward bought the 240 acres which he yet owns 
in Union township, and there he managed a profita- 
ble dairy for several years in connection with 
stock raising. In 18S4 he settled in Finleyville, 
this county, where he is now living a compara- 
tively retired life. He has erected several elegant 
dwellings, which have contributed largely to im- 
prove the appearance of the village. He also buys 
some wool each year, having formerly made large 
annual investments in that article. Politically he 
votes with the Republican party, and in religion 



is a member of the Baptist Church of Library, 
Allegheny Co., Penn. Mr. and Mrs. Boyer are 
the parents of four children, namely: Joseph, 
born November 24, 1858, living on the farm; Sam- 
uel F., born July 8, 1861, in the hardware busi- 
ness at Finleyville; Charles L., born October 29, 
1863, a farmer near Finleyville, and James, born 
May 4, 1871, in partnership with his brother Sam- 
uel in the hardware business. 




ILLIAM PATTERSON, farmer and stock 
raiser of Cecil township, was born in May, 
1^37, in North Strabaue township, Wash- 
ington Co., Penn. He is a son of Ezra 
Patterson, whose parents came to North 
Strabane township many years ago. 

Ezra Patterson was born in eastern Pennsyl- 
vania, and coming west with his parents when a 
young man, continued to reside on the farm in 
North Strabane township, this county. He was 
married to Nancy Horner, and settled on the old 
homestead, becoming a successful agriculturist. 
In political opinion he was an earnest supporter of 
the Whig and Republican parties. He and his wife 
were formerly members of the Seceder Church, 
afterward uniting with the U. P. Church at Pigeon 
Creek, in which he was an elder. They were the 
parents of the following children: Margaret (wife 
of Josiah Kerr, of North Strabane township), 
William, Joseph (living in Virginia) and David 
(residing in Illinois) (twins), Lizzie (Mrs. L. Dagg, 
deceased in 1881), Sarah (married to Peter Dow, 
of Illinois), James (living on the old farm) and 
Anna (wife of William Murray, of Bentleyville, 
this county). The father of this family died in 
December, 1863, and was followed by his wife in 
January, 1892, when in her eighty-second year. 

William Patterson was reared on the home place, 
and educated in the schools of North Strabane 
township, this county. In August, 1860, he was 
married to Jennie Speer, a native of Chartiers 
township. She is a daughter of Robert Speer, 
and granddaughter of James and Catherine (Latta) 
Speer, early settlers of Peters township, where 
their son, Robert, was born and reared. The lat- 
ter followed farming in connection with the busi- 
ness of a carder and fuller. He was married to 
Nancy Harsha, daughter of Thomas and Jane 
(Hutchinson) Harsha, early settlers of Chartiers 
township, where the daughter was born, and where 
the young people resided for some time after their 
marriage. In 1851 they moved to North Strabane 
township, this county. Mr. Speer was an active 
politician, and in religion he and his wife were 
formerly members of the Cross Roads U. P. 
Church, afterward uniting with the U. P. Church 
in North Strabane township, this county. He died 
in 1853, and Mrs. Speer is now .residing in Canons- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1335 



burg, Penn. They had seven children, namely: 
Thomas (deceased in October, 1861), Jennie (wife 
of William Patterson), James (residing in Canons- 
burg, eulisted iu the Eighty-fifth P. V. I., served 
three years and was twice wounded), Robert (en- 
listed," at Chartiers township, iu the One Hundred 
and Fortieth P. V. I. for three years, or during 
the war; he was wounded and died while home on 
a furlough), Stewart (who settled in Missouri in 
1865, died in 1869), Alexander (living in Canons- 
burg, Penn.), and Catherine (Mrs. Joseph Temple- 
ton, of North Strabaue township). 

William and Jennie (Speer) Patterson resided in 
North Strabane township until 1874, when he 
bought the present home in Cecil township, con- 
taining fifty-two acres of well cultivated land. 
Mr. Patterson is an ardent worker in the Prohibi- 
tion party, and in religious connection he and his 
wife are members of the U. P. Church at Venice, 
this county. The following children have been 
born to them: Robert Latta (deceased in 1881. in 
his nineteenth year), Eva Jane (married in 1884 
to William Moore, now living at Bulger, Penn. : 
she has three children), John Stewart (a mason), 
Anna Balph (married in 1888 to William Carlisle, 
living at Hickory, they have one child), William 
Dow (a driller), James Boyd (a blacksmith at Ven- 
ice), Walter, David and Mary, the latter four be- 
ing yet at home. 



water to New York City, finally arriving at Wash- 
ington county, his former home, when he began to 
follow agricultural pursuits. In 1872 he bought 
his present home in Chartiers township, consisting 
of forty acres of well cultivated land, upon which is 
a tine spring of water. Mr. McKnight has always 
been actively interested in all public questions and 
votes with the Democratic party. 



fjOSEPH McKNIGHT is the only living repre- 
sentative of the family name. His grand- 
t J father, Hugh McKnight, was born in Ire- 
^^ land, and after immigrating to America lived 
for some time in Cecil couuty, Md., where 
he was married, and where two sons, John and 
Joseph, were born. In 1784 he went West and 
bought 193 acres of land, which had been war- 
ranted in November, 1784, to one Samuel Irwin. 
Hugh McKnight received a patent of this tract 
June 18, 1799, and remained upon it till his death, 
when his sons inherited it. 

John McKnight was born iu Cecil county, Md., 
and came with the family to Washington county, 
Penn., when yet a boy. He was married to Sarah 
Nesbitt, a native of Chartiers township, this 
county, where they made their permanent home. 
John McKnight was an ardent Democrat and active 
politician. He died in 1857, having been preceded 
by his wife in August, 1836. 

Joseph McKnight was boru in 1832, in Chartiers 
township, and received his early education in the 
subscription schools, in the meantime assisting 
with the duties of the farm. In 1859 he crossed 
the plains to California with an ox team, being 
about six months on the journey. He was a miner 
for some time, then worked on a ranch, remaining 
there until the fall of 1865. He then returned by 



JOHN W. NESBIT, a representative citizen of 
Chartiers township, is a grandson of Jona- 
than Nesbit. Jonathan Nesbit was a native 
of Cecil county, Md., and was there married 
to a Miss Lyons. About 1791, in company with 
three brothers, he came to Washington county, 
Penn., and invested in land. One of the brothers 
returned to his native State, but the others made 
permanent homes in Washington county, and the 
land is still owned by their descendants. 

Alexander Nesbit, a son of the pioneer above 
mentioned, was born on the frontier farm in Wash- 
ington county, Penn., and iu 1847 was married to 
Eliza Rankin, a native of the same place. The 
young people settled on the farm now occupied by 
their son John W., and reared the following chil- 
dren: Rebecca J., John W., William R., Joseph 
(a blacksmith, deceased in March, 1887), Lizzie 
(deceased in August, 1890), James S. (a druggist 
of Bergholz, Jefferson Co., Ohio), and Jesse (de- 
ceased in infancy). The father of these children 
followed agricultural pursuits. In politics he was 
a member of the Democratic party ; he was inter- 
ested in church matters, contributing to the sup- 
port of various societies. He died in 1872, and 
his widow is living with her son, John W. 

John W. Nesbit was born in 1851, on the farm in 
Chartiers township where he is now living. He 
was reared to agricultural pursuits, and educated 
in the township schools. Mr. Nesbit owns a well- 
cultivated farm of 119 acres, upon which he spends 
the greater portion of his time. Politically he is 
an active member of the Democratic party; he has 
held the office of assessor for years, and is now en- 
tering on another term; he has also served several 
terms on the election board. 



JfOHN GORDON. Among the well-known 
pioneer families of Donegal township, the 
name of Gordon is one of the most prominent. 
Their ancestry is traced to one Alexander 
Gordon, grandfather of the present genera- 
tion, who was born in Scotland, and immigrated to 
America soon after the war of the Revolution. 
Landing at Philadelphia, he proceeded to Wash- 
ington county, locating in the southwest part of 
Donegal township, half a mile southeast of West. 
Alexander. He then began to clear away the 



1336 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



almost "unbroken forest, and was soon thereafter 
married to Catherine McDonald, whose parents 
were also pioneer settlers. The young couple be- 
gan their humble home, which was cheered by the 
following children: William, Margaret, Barbara, 
Jane, John, Ethel, Hugh and Nancy, all of whom 
lived to an adult age, but are now deceased. The 
father and mother lived to a good old age, and 
always resided on the farm after coming here. 

Hugh Gordon was born in 1804, on the farm 
now occupied by his son John, aud received his 
education in the common schools. In 1853 he was 
married to Margaret Beeks, born August 27, 1820, 
daughter of Jacob and Margaret (Henry) Beeks. 
Mrs. Beeks was a native of Ireland, and came to 
America in an early day; while her husband, Jacob 
Beeks, was born in Maryland, whence he moved to 
Washington county, Pennsylvania. 

To Mr. and Mrs. Hugh Gordon were born two 
children: Catherine (Mrs. W. S. Armstrong, of West 
Finley township) and John (subject of this sketch). 
Hugh Gordon first brought his bride to the old 
homestead, where he followed farming and dealing 
in stock. By close attention to business and hon- 
orable methods of dealing, he succeeded in secur- 
ing both the esteem and friendship of his neigh- 
bors, and in accumulating a considerable property. 
He and his wife were members of the M. E. 
Church. He died in 1876; his widow is yet living 
with her sons on the home farm. 

John Gordon was born February 24, 1854, in 
the same house where he is now living. He as- 
sisted with the work on the home farm and at- 
tended the common schools. On September 25, 
1889, he was united in marriage with Etta Mitchell, 
who was born August 6, 1860, daughter of Will- 
iam aud Mary Mitchell, residents of Buffalo town- 
ship, this county. They have one daughter, Mag- 
gie May. Mr. Gordon has had charge of the home 
farm since his marriage, and is engaged in general 
farming and dairy work. He is a popular young 
farmer, and in political opinion is a Republican, 
but not an active politician. 



dlOHN Z. BECK, an enterprising citizen of 
\ South Strabane township, Washington Co., 
I Van., was born on the farm in Franklin 
township now occupied by his parents. He 
is a sou of Adam Beck, who was born January 16, 
1816, in County Armagh, Ireland, the only son of 
John Beck. Mr. Beck died when Adam was but a 
small boy, and his widow (formerly Margaret 
Clark) was afterward united in marriage with Will- 
iam Jackson. She came with him to America, 
leaving her son Adam with his uncle, where he re- 
mained until twelve years of age, when he em- 
barked for America on one of the large sailing 
vessels, a totally utter stranger among (he 



1,500 passengers on board. The brave child 
conquered his timidity, and arrived in safety at 
his journey's end, after a stormy voyage of six 
weeks and four days. He lauded at New York, 
where he remained a year, then went to the home 
of his mother in Washington county, Penn. , liv- 
ing there but a short time. Three children were 
born to the union of Mrs. Beck with William Jack- 
son: Margaret (Mrs. Robert Barre), Mary (Mis. 
Andrew Gamble) and Thomas C. The parents 
passed the remainder of their lives in Washington 
county. At the age of fourteen years Adam Beck 
began to learn the blacksmith's trade, which he 
followed several years in this county. On June 
11, 1840, he was united in marriage with Julia A., 
daughter of Samuel Munce, who belonged to one 
of the oldest families in the township, and the fol- 
lowing children were born to them: John Z., Marga- 
ret, Harriet (Mrs. Alvin Smith), Henrietta and 
William J. After his marriage Mr. Beck settled 
on the farm where he yet resides, which was for- 
merly a portion of the old Smith place. He and his 
family are members of the United Presbyterian 
Church at Pigeon Creek. In politics he was for- 
merly a Whig, and since the formation of the party 
has been a stanch Republican. 

John Z. Beck received his education in the com- 
mon schools of the vicinity, and on January 16, 
1874, he was married to Mary J., daughter of 
Robert Zediker; they have had no children. Mr. 
Beck began his married life in South Strabaue 
township, Washington county, where he has since 
remained, with the exception of a three years' 
residence in Washington borough. In political 
opinion Mr. Beck is prominently identified with 
the Republican party, and has served as assessor 
and constable, also in several minor offices. He 
aud his wife are members of the United Presby- 
terian Church at Pigeou Creek. 




i ARNE. This family have for many years 
been closely identified with the growth 
and early history of Washington county. 
They are of English origin, and the earli- 
est ancestor of whom we have an au- 
thentic record was one Joseph AVarne, a native of 
New Jersey. He was there reared and married to 
a Miss Miller, who was born in that State, and 
their children were as follows: Stephen, Abrarn, 
James, Mary (wife of David Allen), and Frances 
(married to Solomon Johnson). He and his fam- 
ily came to Pennsylvania in the year 177(1, locat- 
ing in what is now Allegheny county, buying 400 
acres of land near Sunnyside, and there he passed 
the remainder of his life. He was a leading mem- 
ber of the Round Hill Presbyterian Church, and 
in politics affiliated with the Democratic party. 
Maj. James Warne was born December 6, 1779, 




% ..'■' 

'£'.'. h .- ' 'rtrTry^mtf n 

IS s 





£zy?-i^u^f 




"2n 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1339 



near Sunnyside, Allegheny Co., Penn. He re- 
ceived a common-school education, then attended 
the academy at the Forks, intending to prepare 
for the ministry in the Presbyterian Church, but, 
owing to circumstances, went into mercantile pur- 
suits at the age of eighteen. Soon after leaving 
school he came to Washington county, and con- 
ducted a store for one McKinley; then engaged in 
river traffic, and finally came to Parkison's Ferry 
(now Mouongahela City), where he took part in 
various enterprises. About the year 1815 James 
Warne and his brother-in-law, William Parkison, 
built and operated the first window-glass factory 
erected in western Pennsylvania. In connection 
with the glass manufacture, he carried on a boat- 
yard, and also did a general mercantile business, 
buying various kinds of stock and selling it in the 
eastern markets. In 1805 he was united in mar- 
riage with Mary, the only daughter of Joseph 
Parkison. Her father was born and reared near 
Carlisle, Penn., where he was married to Margaret 
Weaver, and their children were born as follows: 
James, David, William and Mary (Mrs. Warne). 
Joseph Parkison built the first ferry at Mononga- 
hela City, from whence the first name given the 
place, which afterward became so famous in con- 
nection with the Whisky Insurrection, namely, 
Parkison's Ferry, the first United States postoffice 
in this region. He was a very prominent citizen, 
serving as a justice of the peace for many years. 
But Joseph Parkison made his place in the history 
of Washiugton county, by laying out and founding 
the town of William's Port (now Mouongahela 
City), in the year 1796. There is a question as to 
the date of the founding, which is not a very 
material point, but the evidence is on the side of 
those holding to 1796. The Parkisous were Vir- 
ginians, and came of English ancestry. Maj. 
James Warne was a scrivener of much ability, and 
many legal papers are yet extant, which bear his 
handwriting. He performed the duties of legal 
adviser in the settlement of estates and business 
matters generally throughout the community. His 
descendants are the only living representatives of 
the founder of William's Port (now Monongahela 
City), now resident in this county. In 1811 
James Warne was commissioned by Gov. Snyder 
as captain of a William's Port company, attached 
to the Fifty-third Regimentof the militiaof Penn- 
sylvania. In 1812 they offered their services to 
the Government, which were accepted, and the 
company went to the United States barracks at 
Meadville, Penn. In the autumn of 1812 he re- 
ceived a commission as major of the First Battalion 
in the Third Infantry Regiment, and held that 
position until receiving his discharge. He was a 
liberal supporter of public enterprises, and voted 
with the Democratic party. He died October 28, 
1855. Of the children of the family who grew to 



mature age the following are named: Amuzet I. 
(married to Mary Jacobs, deceased in 1879, at 
Parkersburgh, W. Ya.), born December 5, 1805; 
Margaret (wife of Samuel Devore, living near 
Parkersburgh, W. Va.), born December 28, 1807; 
Joseph P. (married to Eliza J. Irwin, living on the 
old homestead near Mouongahela City), born Jan- 
uary 0, 1810; James, born May 11, 1812; Hiram 
(married to Elizabeth Nichols, is a farmer near 
Washington, Penn.), born February 16, 1822, and 
Eliza J. (Mrs. John Watkins, of Richmond, Ray 
Co., Mo.), born June 26, 1824. 

James Wabhe, son of James and Mary Parkison 
Warne, was born in William's Port (now Monon- 
gahela City), in the frame house now standing on 

the corner of Main street and alley, opposite 

the Episcopal church (St. Pattl's), where he lived 
uutil the age of fourteen, when his parents moved 
to the farm on which Joseph P. Warne now re- 
sides in the First Ward Monongahela City. He 
continued to live there until he was thirty-one 
years of age. He was educated in the common 
schools of the day. In 1836 he was married to 
Casandra Nichols, a daughter of James and Mary 
Nichols, of Allegheny county, Penn., who died in 
the year 1856, without issue. For his second wife, 
James Warne was married in 1858 to Mary Eliza- 
beth, daughter of James Dunn, of Allegheny 
county, Penn. , a woman especially noted for her 
Christian piety and lofty moral character. She 
was reared in the strict faith of the Covenanter 
Church, and the precepts of her adopted creed 
were fruitful of good and worthy deeds in her 
after life. Mrs. Warne became connected with 
the church to which her husband belonged, the 
Methodist Episcopal, after her marriage to Mr. 
Warne, and continued ever after, until her death, 
August, 1868, a true and earnest worshiper of 
God, and a lovely example of a follower after 
truth and righteousness. She died in the mid- 
day of life, but, having measured full up in the 
life of a true Christian wife and mother, she lives 
in the hearts of those who loved her. Their chil- 
dren were: William Parkison, James J. (deceased 
1874), and Mary Eliza (wife of Dr. George S. 
Stathers, of Monongahela City). James Warne 
settled on a farm in Fallowfield township, in the 
year 1843, where he resided until 1884, then re- 
turned to Monongahela City, his former and pres- 
ent home. He was a lieutenant in the old Jack- 
•son Guards, when a young man, holding his com- 
mission under the then governor of Pennsylvania; 
and throughout his life has been actively interested 
in public matters. By industry and frugality he 
has amassed quite a competency in this world's 
goods. He owns one of the finest Washington 
county farms of 235 acres, and also several val- 
uable properties in Monongahela City, and is 
one of the heaviest taxpayers. Although at the 



1340 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



advanced age of eighty years, he laid out and ex- 
pended in building some $5,000 in 1891, in the 
place of his nativity and present residence. From 
early life he has been a leading member and very 
liberal supporter of the Methodist Church, and he 
was for many years a member of the board of trus- 
tees, and in 1869-70 an active member of the 
building committee for the erection of the hand 
some church of the Edwards Chapel congregation 
at Ginger Hill, this county. 

Although never having enjoyed the advantages 
of an education, such as is now afforded the youth 
of this State, under the magnificent public-school 
system, he was fully alive to the necessity of an 
early training and a liberal college education for 
his children, that they might be prepared to grap- 
ple with the advanced ideas and broader civiliza- 
tion of the age. He therefore made it his aim in 
life to give his children a complete education. His 
daughter was educated in the public schools of the 
neighborhood, and finished her studies at the 
Washington Female Seminary, at Washington, 
Penn. She is now the accomplished wife of Dr. 
George S. Stathers, of Monongahela City, Penn. 

William Parkison Warne, a leading young law- 
yer of Monongahela City, was born February 28, 
1860, in Fallowfield township, Washington Co., 
Penn. He attended the schools of the home neigh- 
borhood until the age of fourteen, when he placed 
himself under the tutorship of Prof. John C. Mes- 
senger, at Hoge's Summit Academy, in Washington 
county, Penn. , where he first learned to decline 
mensa and conjugate the Greek verb. Having ob- 
tained a preparatory course at the above institution, 
and at Allegheny College, at Meadville, Penn., he 
then entered Washington and Jefferson College, 
from which he graduated in 1882, with the degree 
of Bachelor of Science. In early boyhood he 
evinced a strong inclination for earnest study, and 
became an excellent student. After graduating, he 
returned to the farm and rested from mental labors 
for two years, then with mind and body renewed by 
the invigorating rural life, entered the law office of 
the Hon. Thomas H. Baird, Esq. , in Monongahela 
City, Penn., with whom he remained until admitted 
to legal practice in the county of his birth. During 
this interval, he was a student in the law depart- 
ment of the University of West Virginia, ranking 
among the first in his classes. On May 12, 1890, 
he began the practice of his profession in Monon- 
gahela City, Penn., where he has already won lau- 
rels which promise him a brilliant future. Mr. 
Warne served as editor of the Monongahela Daily 
Democrat during the Cleveland-Harrison campaign 
of 1892. He was highly complimented by the 
press and public on account of his able manage- 
ment and direction of the paper while under his 
control. His views taken on all subjects showed 
that he was thoroughly up to the times and level- 



headed on all questions, and that his education 
proved its superiority for liberality and broadness 
of mind over the narrow ideas and prejudices of the 
uneducated. 

On November 10, 1891, he selected a bride in 
the person of Abbie M., daughter of T. W. and 
Mary Scott Kemp, a resident of Ironton, Ohio. 
Mrs. Warne's mother's maiden name was Mary E. 
Scott, a daughter of the late Alexander Scott, one 
of the old Williamsporters and settlers of Wash- 
ington county, Penn. Her father, T. W. Kemp, is 
a son of the late Judge George Kemp, one of the 
original settlers and founders of the city of Iron- 
ton, Ohio. The Kemps are Virginians, having 
moved to Ohio at the beginning of this century. 
They are of English origin. Mrs. Abbie Kemp 
Warne attended the public schools of her native 
city, and was graduated in full honors from Kings- 
bury High School in June, 1886, standing at the 
head of her class. In 1887-90 she attended the 
Ohio Wesleyan University, at Delaware, Ohio, 
where she was a very bright student, and she was 
well liked by all who learned to know her, and 
loved by her school companions, as she was en- 
dowed with a very sweet disposition, always happy, 
good and kind to those about her. Mrs. Warne 
left college at the end of the junior year, on ac- 
count of poor health, and was not permitted to 
graduate with her class. She subsequently pur- 
sued a course in elocution and voice culture under 
the celebrated elocutionist, Dr. Fulton, and was 
one of his talented students in a class of one hun- 
dred. To Mr. and Mrs. W. P. Warne was born, 
July 11, 1892, a lovely daughter, Madeleine Warne. 

At its annual commencement in June, 1892, the 
board of trustees and faculty of Washington and 
Jefferson College conferred the degree of Master 
of Science upon Mr. Warne. He served as city 
solicitor of the corporation of Monongahela City 
during the year 1891. He is an enthusiastic mem- 
ber of the Democratic party, and is a leading mem- 
ber of the Masonic Fraternity. He is a lineal 
descendant of the founder (Joseph Parkison) of 
Mouongahela City, Penn., and is one of her most 
public-spirited citizens. 

Joseph P. Warne was born and reared in 
Monongahela City, and his first literary training 
was obtained in a subscription school kept by 
Widow McKeever, in a frame house near the pres- 
ent depot. The only text books then in use were 
the U. S. Speller, English Reader, and Western 
Calculator. At the age of fifteen years he came 
with his parents to the farm where he is yet living, 
and remained there until his marriage, February 
20, 1844, with Eliza J., daughter of James Irwin. 
Her father was born and reared in Lancaster 
county, Penn., where he was married to Miss Jane 
Morton, and their children were Eliza, Harriet. 
Marv A. and William. In an earlv day this 





'Otf~tA 





tfJlS^JL 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1343 



family moved by wagon to a farm on Mingo creek, 
near Monongahela City, where the father followed 
the trade of cooper. In politics he was a Demo- 
crat, and in religion a member of the Presbyterian 
Church. 

Joseph P. and Eliza J. (Irwin) Warne began 
wedded life on the home farm, where he worked 
for several years in partnership with his brothers 
James and Hiram, but they finally separated. 
He is now retired from active life. He is a mem- 
ber of the M. E. Church, and has served as class- 
leader and in other prominent positions. In pol- 
itics he has always voted with the Democratic 
party. Mrs. Warne was laid to rest August 1, 
1891, leaving the following children: Hiram A. 
(on the home place), Theodore (married to Anna 
Long, and living in Greene county, Penn.), Emma 
J. (wife of S. B. Kernan, in Wichita, Kans. ), 
James I., Wilbur, William and Albert (all four 
deceased), Ella V. (at home), Matthew S. , Joseph 
P. (married to Louisa Hayes, and living in Sedg- 
wick, Kans.), and Francis M. (married to Alberta 
Staib, and living in Greene county, Penn.). 

Matthew S. Warne was born December 16, 
1859, on the home farm near Monongahela City. 
He received his education at the public schools, and 
was one of the first graduates from same; later he at- 
tended Allegheny College at Meadville, Penn. In 
early manhood he opened a hardware store in 
Monongahela City, afterward moving to Wichita, 
Kans., where he continued in the same business. 
In 1891 he returned to Monongahela City, and has 
since resided on the home place. On November 
25, 1884, he was married to Mattie, daughter of 
Lewis Staib, of Monongahela City, and she has 
borne him three children, viz. : Lewis, Edith and 
Blanche. Mr. Warne is a member of the Demo- 
cratic party. 




\ILLIAM A. BABRY, a leading merchant 
of West Alexander, is a sou of Jacob 
Xtf A. Barry, who was born in Beverly, Mass., 
near Boston, where he passed his youth. 
Jacob A. Barry received a superior literary and 
musical education in Boston, and then came to 
Pennsylvania,- where he accepted a position in the 
female seminary at Kittanning. He there met and 
was soon after married to Harriet Newton, of 
Westmoreland county, Penn., and the young 
couple made a home in Columbus, Ohio, where he 
was engaged in teaching music. The children 
born to their union were: Josephine A. (deceased), 
William A., George A. (U. S. land register at Eau 
Claire, Wis.), and Mary E. S. (deceased in youth). 
Of this family, Josephine A. was married to W. 
W. Young, who then engaged in the lumber busi- 
ness at Philadelphia, and was afterward appointed 



general agent of ticket offices on the Pennsylvania 
lines, which position he held until his death, the 
result of an accident. In 1845 Mr. Barry entered 
into partnership with a Mr. Goodall, organizing 
the firm of Goodall cv. Barry, for the manufacture 
of pianos, etc., and they carried on an extensive 
business. Mr. Barry started with a boatload of 
pianos down the Ohio river, but was suddenly 
taken ill on the wa}', and died at Marietta, Ohio, 
where he was buried. The widow aud family 
came to Wheeling, W. Va. , where she was after- 
ward married to A. D. Bedillion, a citizen of that 
town, and they then removed to Pittsburgh, Penn. 
Mr. Barry served as major in the Seminole war in 
Florida. In politics he was a Whig; in religion 
a member of the Episcopal Church. 

William A. Barry was born January 8, 1844, in 
Beverly, near Boston, Mass., and was reared and 
educated in Pittsburgh, Penn., and Wheeling, W. 
Va. At the age of sixteen years he enlisted in the 
Independent Light Artillery, Battery E, known 
as "Knapp's Light Battery." They were sent to 
Point of Rocks, Md., went with Banks down the 
Shenandoah Valley, and were under Pope at the 
second battle of Bull Run, also at Cedar Mountain, 
Antietam, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg and at 
Culp's and Power's Hill. He re-enlisted in 1864, 
as a veteran, and served until the close of the war. 
His regiment joined Sherman at Northville, and 
they were in the fight at Lookout Mountain ; then 
followed Sherman to the sea, participating in all 
the battles of that campaign. At Atlanta Mr. 
Barry was made orderly to Gen. John A. Reynolds, 
with whom he remained until the close of the 
struggle. 

On August 30, 1870, Mr. Barry was united in 
marriage with Sarah M., daughter of John Reed, 
of West Finley township, Washington county, and 
the following children were born to them: John 
A., Hattie R., Robert B. and Mary L. After his 
return from the war, Mr. Barry took up his home 
in Dallas, W. Va., where he was postmaster for 
eight years. He also conducted a general store, 
which he finally sold, and then moved to Barnes- 
ville, where he remained one year; then returning 
to Dallas, he reopened his store, and remained in 
business two and one-half years. In 1874 he 
opened a store at West Alexander, this county, 
which he conducted eight years, and then pur- 
chased the hardware business he now owns. He 
has also carried on an extensive picture-enlarging 
business for several years, having in his youth 
learned painting. In politics Mr. Barry has al- 
ways been a Republican, and has filled the offices 
of burgess, treasurer, member of the council, and 
school director. He has served for three terms as 
commander of James Noble Post, of which he was 
the originator and organizer. In religious faith 
he is an active worker in the Presbyterian Church. 






1344 



WA SHTXG TOX COVX TY 



PARKER S. JOHNSON was horn March 9, 
I S 40, in West Pike Run township, Wash- 
ington Co., Penn. He is a son of Thomas 
Johnson, who was born in October, 1807, in 
Maryland, where he grew to manhood, and 
was captain of a steamboat on the Monongahela 
river for several years. When a young man 
Thomas Johnson was married to Nancy Scott, a 
native of Pallowfield township, Washington Co., 
Perm., and she bore him three children, viz. : John, 
a car inspector for the Char-tiers Railroad Co., 
living in Pittsburgh, Penn.; Barnett, a resident of 
Kansas City, Mo., and Parker S., whose sketch 
follows. The mother died in 1841, and in 1S51 
Thomas Johnson was married, for his second wife, 
to Dorcas Frew, a native of West Pike Run town- 
ship, and daughter of Alexander Frew, a pioneer 
settler of Washington county. She died in 1855, 
and Mr. Johnson was then married to Mary Crow, 
a native of Allen township, this county, and 
daughter of Jacob and Ann Crow. To this union 
was born one son, William, now in the grocery bus- 
iness at California, Penn. The father was a mem- 
ber of the Republican party, aud served for sev- 
eral years as constable of West Pike Run township, 
but devoted his principal attention to personal 
matters. He died September 19, 1885, at Cali- 
fornia. Penn., where Mrs. Johnson is yet residing. 
Parker S. Johnson, son of Thomas and Nancy 
(Scott) Johnson, attended the public schools, and 
passed his youth on the home place, where he was 
born. On September 26, I860, he was united in 
marriage with Ruth A. Cooper, who was born 
August 31, 1842, in West Pike Run township, 
Washington Co., Penn. She is a daughter of 
Lemuel and Sarah (Krepps) Cooper; her mother 
was a native of Maryland, and when a small child 
came with her parents to Pennsylvania. Lemuel 
Cooper was a native of Washington county, born 
February 4, 1797, near Amity. He learned the 
fuller's trade and conducted a woolen mill on 
West Pike Run creek, afterward devoting his at- 
tention to agriculture. He died in 1882; Mrs. 
Cooper passed away in 1868. Lemuel Cooper 
was twice married, first time on September 21, 
1820, to Mary Morton, by whom he had eight chil- 
dren. This wife died in 1840, and in 1841 Mr. 
Cooper married Sarah Krepps, to which union 
there were born four children, of whom only 
Ruth A., is now living. 

Parker S. and Ruth A. (Cooper) Johnson re- 
side on a farm of 102 fertile acres, to which his 
principal attention is given. He is identified with 
all progressive movements in his locality, and votes 
with the Prohibition party. He and his wife are 
members of the M. E. Church. One daughter has 
been born to their union, namely: Sarah S., wife 
of Columbus I. Long, a carpenter and farmer of 
Morgantowu, West Virginia. 



I ¥ ENRY SPHAR. The Sphar family have 
I— «l been identified with the history of Wash- 
ington county for many years. Mattern 
Jj Sphar was born in Switzerland, and, in 

company with two brothers and one sister, 
immigrated to America at the age of seventeen 
years, about the year 1760. He first settled in 
Williamsburg, Va., and on April 21, 1767, took the 
oath of allegiance under King George. He was 
there married to Margaret Shively, and in 1780 
came to Washington county, Penn., and purchased 
of one Col. Cooke 200 acres, on the Monongahela 
river, in what is now Washington county. He 
took an active part in the Whiskey Insurrection, 
and was a soldier in the war of 1S12. He died 
about 1822, leaving three children, namely: John, 
Mattern (who moved to Adams county, Ohio, 
thence to Indiana), and Henry (who lived in this 
county). 

John Sphar was born in 1777, in Loudoun county, 
Va., and when but three years of age came with 
his parents to Washington county, Penn., where 
he received a subscription school education in 
Allen township. When a young man he was mar- 
ried to Susanna Redd, a native of Washington 
county, Penn., and they settled on a farm in Allen 
township, and reared the following children: 
Mary, wife of John Shively, of Guernsey county, 
Ohio; Jacob, first married to Susan Wood, who 
died, and he was then married to Charlotte "Wil- 
son; Elizabeth, wife of Joseph Dunlevy; Daniel, 
married to Mary Speer, and lived in Kentucky; 
Ann, wife of William Spah, of Indiana; Barbara, 
wife of William Hollingshead; Mattern, married to 
Margaret Coyle, of Ohio; Sarah, widow of Joseph 
Beazell, of Allen township; Rachel, married to 
Robert Gailey, of Clarion county, Penn. ; John, 
married to Lucy Ann Scott, and Henry, whose 
name opens this sketch. Of this family three are 
yet living, viz.: Sarah, John and Henry. The 
father voted with the Whig and Republican 
parties, and served as supervisor of the township. 
He and his wife were members of the Baptist 
Church. He died in 1856, having been preceded 
by the wife and mother in 1852. 

Henry Sphar was born in 1820, on the old home- 
stead in Allen township, Washington county, and 
was the youngest child in his father's family. He 
attended the log- cabin school of the period, fur- 
nished with puncheon floor, slab seats, and other 
meager articles. On November 5, 1843, he was 
united in marriage with Margaret, daughter of 
William and Ruth (Jackman) Gregg, early pio- 
neers of Washington county. Mrs. Sphar died 
May 28, 1844, leaving one son, William G., who 
is married to Ruth Gregg, and is living in Allen 
township; he has three children: Annie Bertha, 
George Henry, aud Maggie Pearl. On June 15, 
1847, Mr. Sphar married, for his second wife, 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



1345 



Mary Jackuian, a native of East Pike Run town- 
ship, and daughter of Dixon and Elizabeth (Phil- 
lips) Jackman. Mr. and Mrs. Sphar are living on 
a farm in Allen township containing 100 acres 
of land, and he makes a specialty of raising tine 
Spanish Merino sheep, also keeping a good grade 
of cattle. In political opinion he is a Republican, 
and is a member of the school board. He and his 
wife are active workers in the Methodist Episcopal- 
Church at Mount Tabor. 



QEORGE McCULLOUGH TENAN. A rec- 
ord of the substantial and intelligent citi- 
zens of Washington county would be most 
incomplete were the names of this repre- 
sentative family not included. They were 
among the large number of pioneers who emigrated 
from Ireland during the past century. 

James Tenan was born in 1758, in County 
Londonderry, Ireland, of Scotch Irish parents. 
Soon after the close of the Revolutionary war, the 
young man crossed the ocean to America, locating 
in the State of Pennsylvania. He was married 
near the town of Octoraro, Lancaster county, to 
Jane Brown, and there they remained until 1785, 
when they purchased and settled upon a small 
tract of land in Smith township, Washington 
county. Here children were born to them, and 
reared as follows: John, Robert, James, William, 
Mary and Moses. Mr. Tenan (who then spelled 
his name Tynan) in politics affiliated with the 
Democratic party, and in religion was an early 
member of the Associate Church. He died in 
1S40, having been preceded by his wife in 1836. 

James Tenan was born in 1796, in Smith town- 
ship, this county, and received his education in 
the subscription schools of the home neighborhood. 
In 1829 he was united in marriage with Margaret 
McCullough, daughter of George and Agnes Mc- 
Cullough. The McCulloughs came from Little 
Britain township, Lancaster Co. , Penn. , to Wash- 
ington county, Penn., about 1786, making a set- 
tlement in Smith township, two miles north of 
Burgettstown. He was one of the original pro- 
prietors of the land, having been the one to get 
out a patent for same. George McCullough was 
a farmer, and died in 1811, in a very old age, on 
the farm in Smith township where he had located, 
having been preceded to the grave by his wife. 
She was the mother of the following children: 
Christiana, who married James Wilson, and died 
at the age of ninety-eight years, in Mahoning, 
county, Ohio; Elizabeth, who married Thomas Mc 
Cullough, and died in Ohio; Jane, married to 
James McNall, and died in Findley township, 
Allegheny Co., Penn., at the age of ninety-eight; 
Mary, who married James Brown, and died in 
Allegheny county when ninety-six years of age; 



Susan, who died unmarried, aged ninety-six years; 
Margaret, who married James Tenan, and one who 
died in infancy. George McCullough was a mem- 
ber of the Presbyterian Church at Florence. The 
old McCullough homestead is now in the posses- 
sion of the Tenan brothers, they having inherited 
it. George McCullough had a brother who served 
in the Revolutionary war. 

James and Margaret (McCullough) Tenan passed 
their married life on the home place in Smith 
township, and to their union two sons were born, 
viz. : George McCullough and James Brown. Mr. 
Tenan was liberal in his political views, and voted 
with the Jacksonian Democrats. In religious 
faith he was a member and liberal supporter of the 
Associate Church at Burgettstown until his death, 
which occurred April 1, 1859. 

George McCullough Tenan, who has been a life- 
long farmer, was born December 2, 1830, in 
Smith township, this county, and passed his boy- 
hood in attending the common schools of the vi- 
cinity. On February 21, 1863, he was united in 
marriage with Martha I., daughter of Deacon 
Whittaker, who was born on the farm where Mr. 
Tenan is now living, and was married to Jane 
Moore; their children were Martha I., Elizabeth 
(wife of J. B. Cunningham), Mary, Samuel and 
Jane, all now deceased. In politics Mr. Whit- 
taker was formerly a Whig, but in 1850 he became 
a Democrat. In religion he was first a Methodist, 
then united with the Presbyterian Church. 

After their marriage George and Martha I. Te- 
nan located in Smith township, this county, then 
resided in Pittsburgh two years, and from there 
came to the home farm of Mrs. Tenan. Here Mrs. 
Tenan died May 11, 1891, aged fifty-four years 
twelve days, and is buried in the U. P. cemetery 
at Burgettstown. They had two children: Jennie 
L. (wife of Oliver Perrine, of Mingo Junction) 
and Effie S. Politically George M. Tenan was a 
Democrat, but in 1863 became a worker in the 
ranks of the Republican party, and he has served 
in various township offices, though desiring no po- 
litical preferment. In 1876 he was elected justice 
of the peace, and in 1892 commenced a fourth 
term of five years. He is a member of the "United 
Presbyterian Church at Burgettstown, this county. 



rif DAH WINNET is descended from English 
I'll ancestors, his grandfather, William Win- 
f^\\ nett, having been born in Liverpool, Eng- 
JJ -^ land. He was kidnapped in early boyhood, 
i and carried to the American colonies, where 

he was bound out until twenty-one years of age. 
On arriving at mature age he came to Washington 
county, Penn., where he was married to Sally, 
daughter of John Strange. Both father and daugh- 
ter were natives of England, and early settlers of 



1346 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Wilmington, Del. Mr. Winnett took a patent for 
a tract of land in Washington county, Penn., and 
made a borne in what is now Fallowfield township. 

William Winnett was born in September, 1761, 
on the home farm in Fallowfield township, Wash- 
ington Co., Penn. When a young man he was 
married to Rachel Young, who was born in 1766, 
in Washington county, a daughter of Lot Young, 
a pioneer farmer of Washington county. William 
Winnett was a cooper and farmer, and at one time 
owned 1,000 acres of land, but afterward suffered 
severe financial reverses. He and his wife were 
members of the Baptist Church. He died in 1861, 
followed by his wife in 1866, both becoming cen- 
tenarians. The children of this hardy couple were 
born as follows: John (who died in 1886, in 
Guernsey county, Ohio), Benjamin (a blacksmith, 
who died in Guernsey county, Ohio). William 
(drowned in Brush creek about 1830), Nathan (a 
blacksmith, who died in 1884, in Illinois), 
Thomas (a cooper by trade, moved West and died 
August 15, 1891, in Walla Walla, State of Wash- 
ington), Lot (deceased in November, 1890, in Fal- 
lowfield township), Laban (deceased in March, 
1889), Sally (wife of James Smiley), Polly (un- 
married, deceased in 1888), Naomi (deceased wife 
of William Ward, of Guernsey county, Ohio), 
Rhoda (deceased wife of Noah Hardrock), and 
Adah. 

Adah Winnett, youngest child of William and 
Rachel Winnett, was born in 1824, on the old 
place in Fallowfield township, Washington Co., 
Penn., and has always resided on the home- 
stead. In 1S49 he was united in marriage with 
Ellen Williams, a native of East Pike Run town- 
ship, this county; her mother (Ruth Williams) was 
born in Maine, and settled in East Pike Run town- 
ship many years ago, where she died in her eighty- 
fifth year. The home farm, which has been in the 
possession of the Winnett family for one hundred 
and fifty years, contains seventy-three acres of well- 
cultivated land. Adah Winnett is an ardent mem- 
ber of the Republican party, and in religious faith he 
and his wife are connected with the Ebenezer M. E. 
Church. The following children have been born to 
their union: Rachel, born March 24, 1850, died De- 
cember 23, 1855; William, living in East Pike 
Run township, born March 29, 1N51 ; Samuel, born 
February 7, 1854, living in Allen township; Mil- 
ton A., born June 8, 1856, living in East Pike Run 
township; Henry T., born June 8, 1858, living in 
Greene county, Penn.; Benjamin C. , born October 
6, 1860; John J., born October 31, 1862, died in 
infancy; Addison M., born September 1, 1864, 
living on the homestead; Titus F., born May 14, 
1869, died in his eighteenth year, and Mary R., 
born May 11, 1871, who was married April 27, 
1891, to John H. Winnett, of Washington county, 
Pennsylvania. 



born 



B. RICHARDSON is a prosperous agricult- 
urist, enterprising citizen and patriotic ex- 
soldier of Fallowfield township. 
Richard Richardson, father of subject, was 
in 1810, in Washington county, Penn. , and 
was a lifelong tiller of the soil. But in times of 
peace are soldiers trained for future service, and 
in that simple rural life his children gained the 
physical and mental power so especially necessary 
to success on the field of battle, whether the war- 
fare be amid scenes of common everyday worldly 
strife, or in bloody carnage for "God and home 
and native land." Richard Richardson was united 
in marriage with Eliza Niblake, a native of this 
county, and she bore him the following children: 
Olive J., Josephine, Melvina, William M., S. B., 
Hannah, and Elnora (the last named being de- 
ceased). Mr. Richardson owns 300 acre- of prime 
land. He is one of the most useful men in his 
community, and has filled various local offices. 

S. B. Richardson was born in 1845, in Fallow- 
field township, Washington Co., Penn. In 1864 
he enlisted in Company A, Twenty-second Volun- 
teer Cavalry (Ringgold Battalion), and served 
until the close of the war. He participated in all 
the engagements of his division, and at the battle 
of Cedar Creek was wounded in the left leg. After 
the war he returned to Washington county, and 
for two years was engaged in the hotel business at 
Coal Centre, then worked two years in a steam 
tannery, afterward engaging in mercantile life for 
one year. In 1886 he was united in marriage with 
Miss Elizabeth Bigler, a native of this county, and 
she has borne him one daughter, Adair. Mr. 
Richardson has served his township in many ways; 
in 1890 he was appointed to take the census, and 
at present he is assessor and constable of Fallow- 
field township. Mr. and Mrs. Richardson reside 
on a pleasant farm lying one mile from Bentley- 
ville, and eight miles south of Monongahela. 



HIRAM WARNE, one of the representative 
self-made prosperous agriculturists of 
Franklin township, is descended from a 
- 1 stalwart family who came from eastern 
w Pennsylvania, settling in Allegheny county, 

same State, at an early day. 

Maj. James Warne, father of Hiram, was born 
in Allegheny county, and when yet a young man 
moved to Washington county, locating in Monon- 
gahela City, then called "Parkison's Ferry" 
(years before Joseph Parkison had laid out part of 
the town and named it " William's Port " ), where 
he was married to Mary, daughter of Joseph and 
Margaret Parkison. Here he was engaged in 
various pursuits, being connected among other in- 
dustries with ship building, glass-blowing and in 
general merchandising, in all of which he was 





'MMyyn^ 




WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1349 



eminently successful. Some time in 1825 or 1826 
he retired from business, and moved onto a farm 
near town, where he died in 1856, and his wife in 
1865. The children born to them are as follows: 
Amuzette, Margaret, Joseph P. and James (both 
in Washington county), David, Mary and Susan 
(all three deceased), and Hiram and Eliza J. (the 
latter living in Missouri). Major Warne was a 
loyal Democrat of the Jeffersonian stamp, and was 
a fearless as well as an able exponent of the party. 
From his youth he had been connected for many 
years with the Presbyterian Church, but in ad- 
vanced life he united with the Methodist Epis 
copal Society. 

Hiram Warne was born February 16, 1822, in 
what is now Monongahela City, Washington Co., 
Penn., and was a small boy when the family 
moved into the country. His education was more 
of a business than a literary nature, and the suc- 
cess he has made in life is due entirely to his own 
natural abilities, brought into active play by in- 
domitable energy and perseverance. On Decem- 
ber 2, 1856, he was married to Elizabeth, daughter 
of James and Rebecca (Devore) Nichols, of Alle- 
gheny county, Penn., the latter of whom was a 
daughter of Moses Devore. of the same county. 
Mr. and Mrs. Nichols were parents of the follow- 
ing named children: Mary. Lucinda, Sam nil, 
William, Catherine, David. Harvey, Sarah, James, 
Nancy, Rebecca, Elizabeth and Martha J. Polit- 
ically Mr. Nichols was a Whig, and in religion a 
Presbyterian. After marriage our subject and his 
wife located on a farm in Somerset township, 
thence moved to Nottingham township, and finally 
came to their present pleasant home. Their union 
has been blessed with the following named chil- 
dren: James C, Florence, William W., Allen C, 
Boyd E. , Howard F. and Mary Etta May. Mr. 
and Mrs. Warne and daughters are all members 
of the Third Presbyterian Church of Washington, 
in which he is an elder, and he assisted in the 
building of the Second and Third Presbyterian 
Churches. In his political connections Mr. Warne 
was a Democrat until 1860, when he united with 
the Republican party, of which he has since been 
a consistent member. 



THE CLELAND FAMILY were natives of 
Ireland, the first of whom to immigrate to 
America was one William Cleland, a native 
of County Down, Ireland, where he had 
married Elizabeth Cleland (it is not known 
whether she was a relative or not) and was a 
farmer. In 1820 the family — then consisting of 
the parents and three children, John, Robert and 
Sarah Jane — sailed for America. After a stormy 
passage of sixteen weeks they landed at Baltimore. 
Md., when sickness entered the family; strangers 



in a strange land, with no friends, and their little 
hard-earned savings spent, their condition was 
most pitiable, but with undaunted courage the 
father persevered, resolved that his wife or little 
ones should never suffer, so long as God gave him 
strength to provide, and after some search ob- 
tained employment as a watchman on a vessel. 
Fortune soon began to smile on the brave pioneers, 
the sick recovered, and the cloud of darkness rose 
from their sight. As soon as sufficient capital was 
saved, the family started on the long journey to 
Brooke county, W. Va. On arriving at Pittsburgh, 
Penn., a pause was made, employment secured and 
the financial exchequer replenished. They then pro- 
ceeded on their way, and made a location in Brooke 
county, W. Va. , where they remained but a short 
time, afterward removing to Washington county, 
and settling in the southern part of Hanover 
township, this county, near Hanlin Station, 
where the parents died, having passed their lives 
in instilling principles of enterprise and progres- 
sion into the minds of their children, which aided 
them to succeed in later years. Of the children, 
Sarah Jane was married to James Hindman; Rob- 
ert was a farmer, and lived to see his seventieth 
birthday, and John. 

John Cleland was born January 6, 1806, in Ire- 
laud, and was but a lad of fourteen years when he 
came to America. His education was limited, as 
he had a great deal of hard work to do, and was 
thus deprived of au opportunity for extensive 
learning. He learned the trade of a stone mason, 
following that business for some time. In about 
1837 he was married to Rebecca Hindman, who 
bore him the following children: A son, deceased 
in infancy; William; Samuel, who died in West 
Virginia; Elizabeth, married to Robert Cleland; 
Catherine, Mrs. Edward Hindman; Robert; and 
Rebecca, Mrs. J. J. Andrews, of Hanover town- 
ship. In 1851 the mother of this family died, and 
was buried in Warsaw, Coshocton Co., Ohio. Mr. 
Cleland afterward made a second choice in the 
person of Susanna (Scott) White, widow of Moses 
White. After his marriage John Cleland resided 
in Hanover township, this county, thence moving, 
about 1846, to Coshocton county, Ohio, where he 
cleared up a farm, which he soon sold at a good 
profit and then took another from which he also 
realized a handsome profit. After disposing of 
these farms, he returned to Washington county, 
locating in Hanover township about one and one- 
fourth miles northeast of Florence, and there 
passed his remaining days. Year by year new 
additions were made to his lands, and he owned 
nearly 500 acres at the time of his death, which 
occurred December 19, 1876. His life was a prac- 
tical demonstration of the old axiom, "Where 
there is a will, there is always a way." Mr. Cle- 
land was a very successful man, and the fact could 



1350 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



only Vie attributed to his own exertions. In pol- 
itics he was a lifelong Democrat, taking an in- 
terest in the success of his party. 

William Cleland was born December 20, 1839, 
in Hanover township, Washington Co., Penn., 
where his life has been passed. He attended the 
common schools, and received his first knowledge 
of agricultural duties on the farm of his father. 
On January 25, 1870, he was married to Ella Mc 
Gonnell, who was born February 17, 1841, a 
daughter of John and Sarah (Morrison ) McConnell, 
of Hanover township, this county. Mr. and Mrs. 
Cleland passed their first years of married life in 
Hanover township, on a part of the old homestead, 
where he resided till 1801, engaged in general 
farming and stock raising. He then moved to 
Florence, this county, where he yet resides, having 
rented a farm. In politics he is a Democrat. Two 
children were born to William and Ella Cleland: 
a son, who diet I in infancy, and Sarah M., born 
November 19, 1881, who d'ied March 25, 1N92, her 
loss being mourned with double sorrow by the be- 
reaved and childless parents. 

Robert Cleland was born in December, IS 47. 
in Coshocton county, Ohio, where his parents were 
living at that time. His mother died when he was 
but a child of four years, and he was brought to 
Washington county, Penn., where he lived with 
his uncle until the return of his father to Wash- 
ington county, in 1850. He was reared to farm 
work, and attended the common schools. On 
March 10, 1870, he was united in marriage with Ida 
Livingston, who was born in 1848, in Hanover 
township, a daughter of William and Elizabeth 
(Buncan) Livingston. The children of Robert 
and Ida Cleland are as follows: Rebecca, William 
L. (deceased), Mary E., Susan R., John H, Rob- 
ert D. , La Brida E. and Harry E. He is a sys- 
tematic farmer and a leader in the business com- 
munity. In politics he is a Democrat, and has 
been called upon to fill several offices in his town- 
ship. Both he and his wife are members of the 
Cross Roads Presbyterian Church. 



EORGE W. CONN, a retired merchant and 
farmer of Florence, Penn., is descended 
i from natives of the Emerald Isle. Thomas 
1, Conn, his grandfather, was born in Ireland 
and was a shoemaker by trade. About 1800 
he and his family came to America, first locating 
in Hanover township, Washington Co., Penn., 
about two and a half miles east of Florence. He 
followed his trade and, as was then the custom of 
shoemakers, went from one house to another, and 
while there usually made enough shoes to last the 
whole family a season. They were the parents of 
the following children, some of whom were born 
in Ireland: Jane, Sarah, Maria, Rebecca, Eliza- 



beth, William. Thomas, James, Isaac and Francis. 
The parents afterward located near Port Washing- 
ton, on Buck Horn Waters, in Tuscarawas county; 
Ohio. 

James Conn was born about 1799. and his liter- 
ary advantages were limited to about thirty or 
forty days of schooling altogether. In later years 
he managed to acquire a good practical education, 
which, combined with good common sense, laid 
the foundation for a successful life. He learned the 
mason's and bricklayer's trades, which he followed 
for many years. About 1830 he was married to 
Mrs. Eleanor (Brown) Miller (who was born in 
1880), widow of Hugh Miller, and the daughter of 
Andrew Brown, a native of Scotland. At the 
time of her second marriage Mrs. Miller had one 
child, Elizabeth (now living in Beaver county, 
Penn.). To the union of James and Eleanor 
(Miller) Conn were born the following children: 
Nancy (widow of Joseph Anderson, living in 
Beaver county, Penn.), George W. (our subject), 
Sarah (deceased wife of Tallman Hooker, of Han- 
cock county, W. Va.), James (a bricklayer, living 
in Kansas City), Ann (who was first married to 
William Finnegan, then to Isaac Evans; she died 
in Salineville, Ohio), Maria (Mrs. Phillips, of Alle- 
gheny county), Andrew B. (residing in Noblestown, 
Allegheny Co., Penn.), Ella (Mrs. John Woodrow, 
of McDonald, Penn. ), Maggie (deceased wife of 
Daniel Greer), Pierce B. (deceased), Mary (mar- 
ried to Matthew Proviues, now living in Grass 
Valley, Cal.) and Lorenzo D. (deceased). The 
parents were for some time residents of Beaver 
county, Penn., but passed the greater part of their 
lives in Hanover township, Washington county, 
where the father followed his trade. In politics 
he was a lifelong Democrat. He and his wife 
were both members of the M. E. Church. He 
died in 1878 in Beaver county, Penn., and on 
May 8, same year, his wife passed away. 

George W. Conn was born September 14, 1823, in 
Beaver county, Penn. His early life was spent on 
the farm, and, being an apt scholar, he obtained a 
good education from the meager advantages then 
offered. He learned and followed the trades of 
mason and bricklayer for about fifteen years. On 
August 31, 1848, he was married to Mary Anderson, 
who was birn in 1826, a daughter of John and 
Margaret (Kryder) Anderson. Mr. and Mrs. 
Conn have no children of their own, but have 
reared from infancy one who received parental 
care. Flora Anderson (deceased wife of Rev. A. F. 
Alexander). In 1861 Mr. Conn entered mercan- 
tile life in Florence, this county, and being an ex- 
cellent judge of his class of goods did an exten- 
sive and profitable trade, which continued to in- 
crease until he owned the most extensive business 
of the kind in Florence. He made semi-annual 
trips to the East, there making his purchases, and 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1351 



in 1875 disposed of his merchandise at a good 
profit. He then gave his attention to his farm, 
which was situated east of Florence, but continued 
to reside in town, having tenants on the farm. His 
health failing in 1880, he has since virtually 
lived a retired life, although yet instructing in the 
management of the farm. In politics he is a 
Democrat, He has ever been active and energetic, 
and beginning life with no capital, has amassed a 
comfortable property, and is now a representative 
citizen of Florence. 



d.AMES THOMAS. This enterprising and well- 
known gentleman is one of the leading agri- 
) culturists and most extensive stock raisers 
of Nottingham township, anil a sou of James 
Thomas. 
James Thomas, the father, was born December 
13, 1771, in Sussex county, Del., and during early 
life followed distilling, afterward becoming a 
farmer. When a young man he was married to 
Lydia Haines, who was born in 1779, in Lancaster 
county, Penn., and twelve children were born to 
them, of whom are yet living: Elizabeth (Mrs. 
Teeple, of Pennsylvania), Catherine (Mrs. Fergu- 
son, residing in Ohio), Mrs. Lavina T. Hair (of 
Chicago), Samuel and James (both living in Not- 
tingham township), and Uriah, a resident of Ohio. 
The father died in this county in 1860; the mother 
was called over the river in 1859. 

James Thomas was born in 1818 in Nottingham 
township, Washington Co., Penn., receiving his 
education in the district schools of the home place. 
After attaining his majority, he and a brother 
began life for themselves as stock farmers, keeping 
"bachelor's hall" for two or three years. On De- 
cember 14, 1852, he was united in marriage with 
Eliza Kinkey, a native of this county, and daughter 
of George Kinkey, who was born in 1806, in this 
county, and in early life followed carpentry, after- 
ward devoting his time to farming. He was cap- 
tain in the militia for a number of vears; he died 
in 1873. 

To the union of James and Eliza (Kinkey) 
Thomas fourteen children have been born, seven 
of whom are yet living, namely: Josiah, James B., 
John (all three married), Anna (Mrs. Best), David, 
Franklin and Lucinda (at home). On the old farm 
where his parents lived and died is the beautiful 
home of Mr. Thomas. The place contains 300 
acres of fertile land, all of which is cultivated to 
the highest degree by this progressive agricult- 
urist. He also owns three other farms, one lo- 
cated in Ohio county, W. Va., and all four are 
under the direct supervision of the owner. An oil 
well is in preparation on one of these farms. Mr. 
Thomas makes a specialty of sheep raising, also 
breeding fine horses. The total value of his 




property is about $32,000. Politically, he is a firm 
believer in the principles embodied in the platform 
of the Democratic party. 



OYD A. EMERY, M. D., a very successful 
and well known physician of Somerset 
township, this county, is a native of the 
same, born on the home farm November 16, 
1851. His father, Joshua Emery, was born Sep- 
tember 27, 1805, in Washington county, Penn. 
He commenced reading medicine under Dr. Leath- 
erman, of Canonsburg, Penn., and graduated in 
1830. On September 20, 1831, was united in mar- 
riage with Mary McCullough, who bore him three 
children, all deceased. His first wife died De- 
cember 31, 1839, and on May 4, 1841, Dr. Emery 
was married to Anua Graham, of Washington 
county, Penn. They had seven children, namely: 
Ebenezer G., Martha G. (married to W. S. Caner, 
a resident of Chicago, 111.), James A. (living in 
Duuningsville, Washington Co., Penn.), Boyd A. 
(whose name opens this sketch), William H. (a 
farmer of Somerset township), Anna W. (wife of 
J. H. McNary), and one deceased. Dr. Emery 
settled permanently in Washington county after 
his marriage. He was an active worker and elder 
in the Presbyterian Church for a number of years. 
His wife died September 2S, 1S73, and September 
7, 1885, he too passed away. 

Boyd A. Emery received a common-school edu- 
cation, and then attended Canonsburg Academy 
for four years. In 1875 he graduated from Wash- 
ington and Jefferson College, then studied medi- 
cine with his father, graduating as an M. D. in 
1878. On November 27, 1883, he was united in 
marriage with Katie W. Townsend, who was born 
December 15, 1859, daughter of C. W. and Mar- 
garet (Wright) Townsend, the father being a 
physician of Washington county. After his mar- 
riage Dr. Emery practiced medicine with his father 
until the death of the latter, and he now enjoys an 
extensive and lucrative practice. Two children 
have brightened the home of Dr. and Mrs. Emery: 
Charles T., born October 5, 1884, and an unnamed 
infant (deceased), born July 29, 1889. The Doctor 
and his wife are both members of the Presbyterian 
Church at Pigeon Creek. 




K\ H. PHILLIPS, M. D. This well-known 
physician represents an old and promi- 
nent family of Washington county. He 
— ' is a grandson of Solomon Phillips, who 
came to this country many years ago, 
and locating on a farm in East Pike Run township, 
carried on agriculture and stock raising. He was 
married to Martha Nicolls. In politics he voted 
with the Whig party, and in religious faith he was 



1352 



WASHING TON CO UN TY. 



a member of the Society of Friends. He died on 
the farm in East Pike Run township, leaving chil- 
dren, of whom James is the only one mentioned. 

James Phillips was horn and reared on the home 
place in East Pike Run township, this county, 
where he attended the subscription schools, the 
Bible being his only text-book. He was united in 
marriage with Edith, daughter of John and Mary 
Dixou, the former of whom was born in New Jersey, 
and when fourteen years old came on foot to the 
western part of Fayette county, Penn., there pass- 
ing the remainder of his life. He followed farm- 
ing and stock raising, becoming a wealthy agri- 
culturist. In politics he was a Tory, in religious 
faith a member of the Society of Friends, attend- 
ing their meetings at Brownsville twice a week. 
James and Edith (Dixon) Phillips resided on a 
farm in East Pike Run township for some years 
after their marriage, when he built the dwelling 
now occupied by his son, W. H, who is the only 
one now living of eight children born to this 
couple. Mr. Phillips was an energetic agricult- 
urist, in politics an active member of the Whig 
party, and in religious faith an adherent of the 
Hicksite Quaker Church. He died in 188-1. 

Dr. W. H. Phillips was bom February 12, 1838, 
in East Pike Run township, Washington Co., 
Penn. He attended the Johnson Academy, at 
California, this county, afterward taking a three- 
and-one-half years course at Washington and Jef- 
ferson College. He then began the study of med- 
icine with Dr. Hunter, at Coal Centre, this county, 
and attended the University of Pennsylvania three 
terms, when he graduated. In 1809 Dr. Phillips 
began the practice of his chosen profession at 
Coal Centre, remaining there two years, and finally 
came to his present home in California. Here he 
was married, on June 21, 1873, to Hattie N., 
daughter of Edward Riggs, of that place. Dr. 
Phillips is a stanch Democrat, and in religious 
faith a member of the Disciple Church. 



AMES M. HERVEY, a well-known citizen of 
the county, is a son of Francis Hervey, who 
was born in Cecil county, Md. William 
Hervey, father of Francis, emigrated from 
Campbelltown, Scotland, to Maryland, where 
he died. His children were: Francis, Andrew, 
Benjamin, Mary, Eliza, Rachel and Esther. He 
was a member of the Seceder Church. 

Francis Hervey spent his youth in Maryland, 
where he enjoyed exceptional educational advan- 
tages. In 1804 he removed to Washington county, 
Penn., and in 1800 was married to Miss Jane 
Wherry, daughter of Joseph and Rachel Wherry. 
Soon after his marriage he located in Trumbull 
county, Ohio, and remained there till 1817, when 
he returned to Pennsylvania, and made his home 



in Canton township, this county, where he lived 
until his death, which occurred in 1854. His 
family were: Joseph W., Rachel, Mary M. , Eliza- 
beth, James M., Ebenezer W., Jane A. and Will- 
iam. Mr. Hervey was an active member of the 
Democratic party, and with his family was a mem- 
ber of the Presbyterian Church. His wife died in 
1863, and their remains are interred in the ceme- 
tery at Washington. 

James M. Hervey, the subject of our present 
sketch, was born November 0, 1810, in Trumbull 
county, Ohio, but when an infant was brought to 
Canton township, Washington Co., Penn., and 
there passed his early life. His education, being 
received at the common schools, was necessarily 
limited. On November 0, 1840, he was united in 
marriage with Nancy, daughter of John and Nancy 
Morgan. The young people began their married 
life in Chartiers township, and remained there till 
1853, when they removed to their present home in 
Mt. Pleasant township. They have three children: 
Juhn M., Meletta and Joseph W. Politically 
Mr. Hervey is a Democrat, and in religion a mem- 
ber of the Presbyterian Church. He is known as 
an upright citizen, one who has made a success of 
life by his own industrious efforts, and is intelli- 
gent and well informed. 



JO McCLELLAND. This gentleman is a 
worthy representative of the Scottish patriots 
whose blood flows in his veins. Many years 
ago, during the rebellion in Scotland, one 
William McClelland left his native heath, 
and made a new home in the North of Ireland, 
where his life was passed in agricultural pursuits. 
Three children were there born to him as follows: 
Hans, James and William. 

Hans McClelland was born in 1750, and when a 
young man emigrated to America, locating on a 
farm about two and a half miles from Canonsburg, 
in Washington county, Penn., where he became 
engaged in distilling and general farming. He 
was married to Catherine Carson, a native of Ire- 
land, who bore him the following children: Will- 
iam, James, Ebenezer, John, Ann, Nancy and 
Sarah, all of whom lived to be over fifty years of 
age. The father died in 1818; he was a member 
of Miller's Run Presbyterian Church, and in poli- 
tics was a Democrat. 

Ebenezer McClelland was born September 16, 
1792, in Cecil township, Washington county, Penn. 
He was reared to agricultural pursuits, aud became 
one of the most extensive wool buyers in Washing- 
ton and neighboring counties, his annual purchase 
of wool sometimes amounting to as much as 1,300,- 
000 pounds. He was also one of the most exten- 
sive breeders of tine-wool sheep in Washington 
county, having been one of the first to introduce 





e 




WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1355 



the Merino. In 1S23 he was married to Esther, 
daughter of John Campbell, of Cecil township, 
this county, a native of Scotland, who came to 
Washington county in pioneer times; he was often 
obliged to flee from the Indians, and his father 
was killed May 26, 1782, at "Crawford's defeat." 
To the union of Ebenezer and Esther (Campbell) 
McClelland children were born as follows: J. C, 
Sarah J. (Mrs. A. G. McPhersou), Thomas J., 
William, Ebenezer, James and Catherine, of whom 
three are yet living: James, Ebenezer and J. C. 
The father of this family was emphatically a self- 
made man; politically he was a Democrat, and in 
religious faith he was a member of the Union 
Church. 

J. C. McClelland was born August 11, 1824, in 
Cecil township, Washington Co., Penn., and when 
eight years of age came with his parents to North 
Strabane township. He attended Jefferson Col- 
lege, and being the eldest sou, became his father's 
principal assistant in business. On May 23, 1858, 
he was united in marriage with Caroline, daugh 
ti'i of Jacob Probasco, a leading stockman of Mus- 
kingum county, Ohio, and the young people settled 
near Cambridge, that State, where Mrs. McClelland 
died February 22, 1878, leaving the following 
children: Ebenezer, William, James, and Camp- 
bellena (wife of Joseph Kerr, a prominent business 
man of Union township, this county); there was 
also one that died iu infancy. Of this family all 
are yet living at home save Wiiliam, who is chief 
engineer of the Homestead Iron Works, Penn. 
After the death of his wife, Mr. McClelland moved 
with his family to their present home in Peters 
township, Washington county. He does an exten- 
sive business in general farming, and keeps a tine 
grade of stock. The place contains 160 acres of 
the finest land, underlaid with a rich vein of coal. 
Politically he affiliates with the Democratic party, 
of which he is a valued member, and in religious 
faith he supports the Presbyterian Church. 



THE PARKISON FAMILY. A complete 
history of this representative, influential 
aud numerous family would necessarily in- 
clude a comprehensive outline of the settle- 
ment and growth of Monongahela and the 
adjoining country. Many years ago they located 
near Parkison's Ferry, which was thus called in 
honor of the earliest pioneer of that name. As a 
race the Parkisons have been men of energetic, san- 
guine temperament, possessing mechanical pro- 
pensities, which have led them to choose manufact- 
uring pursuits in preference to other branches of 
trade. The earliest pioneers of this illustrious 
family were of English birth, and came with Lord 
Baltimore to America, first settling in Maryland, 
where they became members of the historic 



" Conocoeheague " settlement. Between the years 
1768 and 1770 five Parkisou brothers — Joseph, 
Benjamin, Thomas, James and William — came 
from Virginia to the Monongahela Valley in Wash- 
ington county, Penn. Many old letters, papers 
and memoranda, which were written in those days, 
are yet extant, and give ample proof that those 
early settlers possessed educational advantages and 
culture far surpassing the usual curriculum of the 
times. These documents are composed of coarse 
paper, but have been inscribed with the old-fash- 
ioned quill pen, some of the work being beautifully 
executed and tastefully designed. The Parkison 
brothers came to Pennsylvania in search of a val- 
uable mill site, which vvas then the primary object 
of nearly all the earliest pioneers in that region. 
Mills were then being erected at all points along the 
river, and also on some of the smaller streams, 
which afforded more water power at that date than 
in the present day. The Parkisons were among 
the first to erect a river mill, at that time an un- 
dertaking of great magnitude, on account of the 
necessary expense. This fact, combined with the 
constant danger of their destruction by ice or 
floods, deterred many from investing their time 
and capital in so hazardous an enterprise. But if 
the mills were once completed with reasonable 
safety from destruction, they were a veritable mine 
of wealth to the fortunate owner. The brothers 
before mentioned devoted their energies almost 
without exception to manufacturing industries, and 
among the commodities then produced are named 
whisky, woolen goods, flour, furniture, guns, tim- 
ber, boats, glass, and paper. 

Benjamin Parkison (a nephew of the Benjamin 
Parkisou above mentioned, who was an active par- 
ticipant in the Whiskey Insurrection) was born in 
L720, near Carlisle, Penn. He erected the river 
mills opposite Mingo, the location of which there 
is nothing yet remaining to indicate, although 
pilots on the steamer point daily with the course 
of the boats the "old chutes,'' which are now sub- 
merged by slack water, but yet afford the deepest 
channel. These dams were constructed with a 
long cribbing of logs tilled in with stone, extend- 
ing up stream on both sides of an opening in the 
dam, through which keels of flatboats could pass 
up or down. This was the '' chute, " and '"run- 
ning the chute" is an expression yet used on the 
river, though one looks in vain to see any break in 
the current. The dam itself was not more than 
three feet in height, and the power was obtained 
by placing an underchute or breast-wheel of about 
thirty inches in diameter immediately below the comb 
of the dam ia such a position that the current strik- 
ing it on the upper side, passed under it. These 
wheels were sometimes twenty-eight feet or more in 
length, and so great was the power obtained that 
no machinery attached ever stopped their move- 



1356 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



merit. If it became disarranged, or choked and 
clogged, the trundle-shaft, ten or twelve inches in 
size, constructed of the strongest wood, was instantly 
twisted off, while the wheel continued to revolve 
in the current. As the smaller mills were stopped 
during the dry weather, the settler came from a 
distance of many miles to the river mills. They 
were often compelled to wait several days for their 
turn, meanwhile camping out or staying with the 
hospitable mill owner. Night and day. week in 
and week out, was heard the incessant clatter of 
the mill, and the swash of the wheel constantly 
mingled with the movement of the hurrying 
stream. Stories of wild animals. Indians, or the 
ghostly banshee furnished an unfailing supply of 
material for the many blood-curdling tales with 
which the men were wont to beguile their waiting 
hours. Thrice was theold Parkison mill torn from 
its foundations by ice gorges in the river, only to 
be rebuilt. Finally a boat load of salt was wrecked 
on the dam, and an interminable lawsuit followed, 
which was many times more expensive than the 
original value of the salt. This affair so im- 
poverished the owner that when the ice again de- 
stroyed the mill it was never rebuilt, and thus this 
historical landmark faded forever. Several years lat- 
er the old Parkison homestead, a large brick house 
of fourteen rooms, was burned, and many valuable 
relics and papers were then destroyed. Among 
the former were the remains of an English pipe- 
organ, and through the scattered reeds the wind 
drew weird music, so that those who heard the 
eerie strains declared the place to be haunted. 

Benjamin Parkison was married in 1796 I" 
Olivia Rodgers, daughter of James Rodgers, who 
emigrated from the North of Ireland, and in 1786 
located in Washington county, Penu. The parents 
died soon after their arrival, leaving a family of 
seven children, of whom are named: Moses, 
Andrew, Ebenezer and Olivia. Benjamin Parki- 
son is described as a proud, stately man, very 
fond of personal adornment. Every morning his 
hair was powdered, and on special occasions silver 
buckles were worn; and when he rode, his horse 
was elegantly caparisoned, with mane and tail 
braided, as was then the style. Mrs. Parkison was 
no less remarkable for her love of display, and 
they were known as an unusually handsome and 
distinguished looking couple. He was accustomed 
to make annual trips with flour to New Orleans 
and the French settlements in Louisiana, and the 
silver obtained for each barrel of flour would, it is 
said, sometimes cover the top of the barrel. 
When making these trips by tlatboat he took a 
horse on which to ride home, a distance of 1,200 
or 1,500 miles. On one occasion, while crossing a 
bend of the Mississippi, he was taken prisoner by 
India us, but a thunderstorm so terrified his capt- 
ors that he was enabled to escape the same night. 



One who often visited at his house says that Mr. 
Parkison frequently carried a large amount of sil- 
ver and gold coin from the mills iu a bandanna 
handkerchief, and would playfully empty it into 
his wife's lap. 

William Parkison, sou of Benjamin and Olivia 
Parkison, was burn at the homestead in Allegheny 
county, Penn. He grew to manhood there, com- 
menced early following the river, and at one time 
he and his brother, James, owned and ran several 
steamboats. He finally built a sawmill and car- 
ried on boat-building, then erected a paper mill at 
Elkhorn, just below the old homestead. He went 
to Alabama soon after the war, intending to con- 
duct a lumber business on the Tennessee river, but 
finding the place near Decatur, where he had con- 
templated locating, was already occupied, he pur- 
chased a cottou plantation. Here he remained 
three years, and then returned to Pennsylvania. 
When a young man he was united in marriage 
with Catherine M., daughter of Hon. James Rodg- 
ers, a representative of the Rodgers family above 
mentioned, who came to America in 1770. She 
bore him five children, viz.: A. R., Mrs. Ella J. 
Spriggs (of Creston, 111.), Rosalie, Mary M. , and 
Mrs. Olivia Kelly (deceased). For his second wife 
Mr. Parkison was married to Sophia Playford, of 
Brownsville, Penn. He was a man of untiring 
energy, and fearlessly undertook any enterprise 
with which he became favorably impressed. His 
wife survives him. 

A. R. Parkison, son of William and Catherine 
M. (Rodgers) Parkison, is the sole living male rep- 
resentative of his family, and the only male de- 
scendant of the early pioneers of that name near 
Monongahela, where he is now in business. 



L M ORRIS R. WEIR is a member of one of 

\//\ the most prominent families of Franklin 
■1 I township, and was born January 21, 1846, 

I - 1 on the Joseph Wejr farm, near Van Buren, 
this county. He is a son of Joseph Weir, 
who was born in 1800, and reared on the old home 
place in Washington county. In early life he was 
united in marriage with Jemima Squiers, also a 
resident of Washington county, and to their union 
were born children as follows: Samuel O, William 
L., Elizabeth and John B. For his second wife 
Mr. Weir was married to Mrs. Phoebe Hauna, 
mother of John V. Hanna, and she bore him two 
children: Morris R. aud Margaret (Mrs. John M. 
Day). Mr. Weir was a very successful farmer, 
and engaged extensively in sheep raising, being 
one of the first in his neighborhood to raise Merino 
sheep. 

Morris R. Weir passed his boyhood on the farm, 
and received a common-school education, which 
he has improved by an extensive course of reading. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1357 



On October 24, 1872, he was married to Sarah J. , 
daughter of James McClain. Since his marriage 
Mr. Weir has resided in the township several 
years, and has been a resident of Washington 
borough. In 1891 he removed to his present 
home, on which he is making many improvements. 
He and his wife are members of the Presbyterian 
Church at Washington, and in politics he is an 
active worker in the Democratic party. 



office, and on the headwaters of Wheeling creek. 
Politically Mr. Carter has always been a Repub- 
lican, and in religion be and his wife are members 
of the Valley Union M. E. Church. 



AMUEL ANDREW CARTER, a represent 
ative farmer of East Finley township, is a 
native of Washington county, Penn., born 
in Amwell township, September 17, 1840. 
His ancestors were of English descent, his grand- 
father's parents having immigrated to New Jersey, 
where their son John was born, and lived until his 
marriage with Rebecca McFarland, when he moved 
to Amwell township, this county, and here reared 
a family of eleven children. 

Jesse Carter was born in 1808 on the farm in 
Amwell township, Washington county, and passed 
his early years at home, receiving but sparse edu- 
cational advantages. He was united in marriage 
with Susan Hughes, born in 1807, a daughter of 
James Hughes, of Amwell township, and she bore 
him the following children: Sarah Ann (deceased 
wife of Francis Day), James (engaged in the hotel 
business in Wayuesburgh, Greene Co., Penn.), 
Rebecca (wife of J. W. Swart, living in Amwell 
township), George (a butcher in Jacktown, Greene 
Co., Penn.), Maggie (residing at home), Samuel A., 
John (a successful farmer of Greene county, Penn.), 
Henry (a farmer in Kansas) and Mary (who died in 
infancy). Mr. Carter died in 1874, followed in 
1876 by his faithful wife. 

Samuel Andrew Carter received a limited edu- 
cation at the schools of his district. He assisted 
his father on the farm until August, 18*32, when 
he enlisted in Company K, Sixteenth P. V. C, at 
Washington, Penn., and took part in the engage- 
ments at Gettysburg, Stony Creek Station and 
many others, returning home at the close of the 
conflict. On January 31, 1867, he was united in 
marriage with Julia Parkinson, who was born Oc- 
tober 3, 1844, a daughter of John Parkinson, of 
Morris township, Greene Co., Penn., whose an- 
cestors were natives of New Jersey, and they have 
had four children, all of whom reside with their 
parents: Lee Anna, born January 1, 1868; Dean, 
born November 10, 1870; Maggie, born December 
4, 1872, and John Clarence, born March 21, 1880. 
After his marriage Mr. Carter continued to live 
some time on his father's farm in Greene county, 
and then purchased one in Morris township, same 
county, upon which he lived fourteen years, and 
in 1883 purchased his present place, the "Old Car- 
roll " farm in East Finley township, this county, 
situated three miles southeast of East Finley post- 



Ji AMES M. DUVALL was born November 24, 
1839, in East Pike Run township. Washing- 
) ton Co. , Penn. He is a grandson of Jacob 
and Jane (Patterson) Duvall, who were 
natives of Maryland and descended from 
Irish ancestry. They came to Washington county, 
Penn., many years ago, where the following chil- 
dren were born to them: Mary, widow of Moses 
Billingsley, of California, Penn.; Harriet, widow 
of Robert Duvall, of Illinois; Samantha, wife of 
Lewis J. Weaver, a farmer of East Pike Run town- 
ship; Jefferson, a resident of East Pike Run town- 
ship, and eight others who are now deceased. The 
parents died in East Pike Run township. 

Alexander Duvall was born in 1810, on the home 
farm in East Pike Run township, Washington Co., 
Penn. , and passed his youth under the parental 
roof. He was married to Jemima Hannon, who 
was born in 1809, and they were the parents of 
seven children, namely: Henry, a farmer of Fay- 
ette county, Penn. ; Jacob, an agriculturist of Allen 
township, Washington county; James M., of whom 
a sketch follows; Jefferson, a farmer of East Pike 
Run township; Isabella, wife of Jacob Crow, now 
of Madison county, Iowa; Mary M., wife of Isaac 
W. Richards, and Julia, married to William H 
Jackman, a farmer of East Pike Run township. 
The father of this family died in 1884, and in 1887 
the mother passed awav. Thev were members of 
the M. E. Church. 

James M. Duvall was reared and educated on the 
home place, and on April 10, 1865, was united in 
marriage with Martha A. Crow, who was born in 
1846, in Alleu township, this county, daughter of 
Azariah and Sarah A. (Murphy) Crow, both natives 
of Washington county, Penn., where the father 
has followed farming. Mr. and Mrs. Crow have 
had six children, namely: Jacob, John, Martha A. 
(wife of James M. Duvall), Jane (married to Theo- 
dore Jackman), Benjamin, and one deceased in in- 
fancy. The father of this family is now farming 
in Howell county, Missouri. 

To the union of James M. and Martha (Crow) 
Duvall have been born two children, viz.: Alva J. 
and Minnie M. , wife of Eli Harmal, a farmer of 
East Pike Run township. James M. Duvall is a 
very progressive, energetic citizen, and is an active 
member of the Republican party. He has sferved 
three terms as township assessor, two as constable, 
and has been school director for about fourteen 
years. Socially he is a member of the American 
Master Mechanics, Lodge No. 371, at Coal Centre, 
Penn. The home place, a well- improved farm, is 
situated two miles northwest of Coal Centre. 



1358 



1 1 'ASHING TOX CO UN T Y. 



I 



DWARD H. DAUGHERTY. a prominent 
4j resident of Canton township, is a son of 
John Daugherty, who was a native of 
County Deny, Ireland, and who, soon 
after his marriage to Martha Hayes (who was also 
a resident of the same county), emigrated to 
America, landing first at New York. 

Thence he proceeded to Washington county, 
Penn.. where he settled in Mt. Pleasant township, 
and began work upon a farm. Together this brave 
young couple toiled, sharing their burdens and 
blessings until they crossed the dark river and were 
again united. Frugal and industrious in their 
habits, Mr. and Mrs. Daugherty soon acquired a 
goodly share of this world's wealth. The chil- 
dren born to them were: Matilda (Mrs. James 
Ferguson), Edward H., Sarah (Mrs. Thomas 
Agnew), James, Alexander. Robert and John. Mr. 
Daugherty was formerly a Whig, and after the 
party was organized became a Republican. He 
was connected with chm-ch and school work for 
many years, and ever took an active interest in all 
questions pertaiuing to the advancement of his 
township. 

Edward H. Daugherty was born October 22, 
1822, in Mt. Pleasant township, this county, and 
passed his earlier years upon the farm. When a 
young man he engaged in teaming through differ- 
ent parts of western Pennsylvania. In December, 
184'J, he was united in marriage with Sarah Nes- 
bit, a member of one of the pioneer families of 
Canton township, and they have had the following 
family of children: Mary A. (Mrs. J. L. Hender- 
son), John H. (deceased), Martha Agnes (wife of 
John Welsh). Margaret Jane (deceased), Sarah 
Selena and Willard \V. (latter deceased). Mr. 
Daugherty has a tine well-improved farm of 143 
acres, situated in the northern part of Canton 
township, and equipped with comfortable, com- 
modious buildings. His success in life has been 
achieved by hard work, and he is now reaping the 
reward of years of labor. He is a very active 
worker in the ranks of the Republican party, and 
is a member of the United Presbyterian Church 
at Cross Roads, as is also his wife. 




\ILLIAM H. DICKERSON, a representa- 
tive of an influential family of Franklin 
township, is a son of William Dickerson, 
— ' whose father moved to Franklin township. 
Washington Co., Penn., in an early day. 
He there located on a small farm, which was a por- 
tion of the place now owned by Mr. Dickerson. 
A fort was erected on his property to protect the 
colonists from the depredations of the savages, 
who surrounded the homes of the early settlers. 
Here in the lonely wilderness were born the chil- 
dren of this pioneer couple, namely: John and 



William. Mr. Dickerson's life was. like that of 
all frontiersmen, filled with toil and danger; he 
passed his days in tilling the virgin soil, and aided 
considerably in the development of the county. 
In politics he was a Whig. 

William Dickerson was born on his father's 
farm in Franklin township, Washington county, 
where he passed his youth, learning the practical 
lessons of industry and economy, which were of 
far more value to the early settlers than a mere 
text-book education. When yet a young man he 
was united in marriage with Miss Sarah Jolly, also 
a resident of Franklin township, and to their union 
were born four children: Asa, Lydia (Mrs. Mel- 
vin Riggs), John and Sarah (Mrs. William 
Sturges). Mr. Dickerson married, for his second 
wife, Martha Clark, a native of Greene county, 
Penn., and to this marriage came children as 
follows: Jane (Mrs. William Leonard), Mary A. 
(Mrs. James Crosby) and William H. Mr. Dick- 
erson was an enterprising man, and secured his 
property through his own efforts. Politically he 
was first a Whig, and upon the formation of the 
party became a Republican. He died in 1860 and 
his widow in lN'JO, and the remains of both are in- 
terred in the family cemetery, which is on the 
home farm. 

William H. Dickerson was born January 5, 1N40, 
on the home farm in Franklin township, and passed 
his boyhood in the usual farm duties, and in at- 
tending the neighboring schools. On October 18, 
1877, he was united in marriage with Millie, daugh 
terof Christopher Bibby,aresidentof Waynesburg, 
Greene Co., Penn., and one of its earliest settlers. 
Mr. and Mrs. Dickerson have had the following 
children: Sarah (deceased), Archie and Bessie. 
Mr. Dickerson is one of the enterprising citizens 
of the township, and is an active member of the 
Republican party. 



HENRY LANDEFELD, one of the most ex- 
tensive travelers in Washington county, and 
proprietor of the largest clothing establish- 
— ment in Monongahela, is of German birth, 
a son of Matthias Landefeld. 
Matthias Landefeld was born in 1794, in Hes- 
sen-Cassel, Germany, where he grew to manhood 
and received a thorough education. At the age of 
seventeen years he entered the German army as a 
volunteer under Blucher, and participated in all 
of the engagements led by that general, taking 
part in the world-renowned contest at Waterloo. 
He had three brothers in the service, all of whom 
died, and after the war he returned home and fol- 
lowed coal mining the rest of his life. In early 
manhood he was married in Hessen-Cassel to 
Mary Schrenewolf, who bore him twelve children, 
of whom are named the following: Louisa, Jacob, 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1361 



Louis, William, Reinhardt, Elizabeth, Eliza, Chris- 
tina and Henry. 

Henry Laudefeld was born September 17, 1846, 
in Hessen-Cassel, Germany, and, as is character- 
istic of the Germans, enjoyed the advantages of a 
good education. He then spent four years in 
learning the tailor's trade, paying $60 tuition fee, 
and furnishing his own clothes in the meanwhile; 
a long, tedious, and, according to the ideas of many 
Americans, useless apprenticeship. But if the 
American people were more prone to emulate the 
painstaking, tedious preparation by which the Ger- 
mans fit themselves for a chosen vocation, it would 
result in better workmen, higher pay, and better 
times. "Slow but sure" has ever been the ex- 
cellent motto of the German Empire, and is the 
watchword of a nation of skilled workmen who can 
be excelled by none other in their special depart- 
ments. After serving his time Henry Laudefeld 
started on a journeyman's tour, and from 1864 to 
1865 remained at Hamburg, thence traveling 
through Holstein to Mecklenburg. He then spent 
four weeks in Hamburg, and from there went to 
Scotland, working in Leith and Edinburgh. He 
lay ill six months at the latter place, and upon re- 
covering attempted in vain to secure work in Glas- 
gow, so returned to Edinburgh. Some time after- 
ward he again went to Glasgow and worked there 
several years; then spent three weeks in Liverpool, 
from which place he proceeded to Manchester, and 
in 1S67 returned to Liverpool. He then enlisted 
in the Fifty-second British regiment, and remained 
with it five years, having been in the service dur- 
ing the Fenian trouble at Dublin, Ireland. From 
Dublin they marched to Limerick, and one year 
later went to Cork, thence to Malta, where they 
were stationed four years. He there deserted 
the army, and after remaining on the island 
three weeks, escaped as a stowaway on a vessel 
bound for Constantinople, Turkey. From Con- 
stantinople, he went to Egypt and Tripoli; 
thence to Gibraltar, where he lay sick several 
weeks. On recovering, he embarked at Gibraltar 
on an American- bound vessel, and, working his 
way across, first landed in New York. He then 
left the vessel, and in 1872, after a short stay in 
New York, went to Pittsburgh, Penn., where he 
was married on September 17, 1874, to Emily 
Steinecke, and there followed his trade until 1875. 
He then went to Salineville, Ohio, remaining there 
one year, and finally coming to Mouongahela, en- 
gaged as a tailor and cutter with Silas Haley, for 
whom he worked twenty-three months. At the 
end of that time he began business for himself as 
a tailor and clothing merchant, and six years later 
purchased another establishment, which he re- 
modeled in 1884. In 1890 he erected his present 
place of business, which is 135x33 feet in size, and 
four stories in height, being one of the finest build- 



ings in the Monongahela Valley. This is the largest 
merchant tailor establishment near Pittsburgh, and 
also carries a full line of furnishing goods and 
ready-made clothing. Mr. Landefeld has won his 
remarkable success by his own efforts, and is 
deeply interested in all public improvements. 
His children have been born as follows: Minnie C, 
Charles H. , Theodore S., Russell A., Reinhardt 
L., Frederick W., William M. and Charles W. 




RS. NANCY EALY, widow of Martin 
Ealy, was born September 10, 1828, in 
Greene county, Penn., daughter of Ben- 
jamin McConnell, of that county. On 
June 20, 1846, she was married to Martin 
Ealy, an industrious and successful farmer of East 
Finley township, Washington county. 

Martin Ealy was born January 15, 1826, in East 
Finley township, and passed his early youth in as- 
sisting his father in the duties of the farm. On 
attaining the age of maturity he was united in 
marriage, as above related, with Miss Nancy Mc- 
Connell, and to their union were born children, of 
which the following is a brief record: Rosanna, 
born April 20, 1847, in early womanhood was 
married to Albert Sampson, and died October 14, 
1870; Silas, born June 10, 1849, is now living in 
East Finley township, Washington Co., Penn., 
married to Belle Almas; Martha Jane, born Au- 
gust 10, 1851, is the wife of James Supler, 
and they reside in West Alexander, Washington 
Co., Penn. ; Clarissa, born March 17, 1853, mar- 
ried George Smith, and resides in Greene coun- 
ty, Penn. ; Lucinda, born December 10, 1854, is 
the wife of John Hunt, and is also living in 
Greene county ; Hannah Minerva, born December 
25, 1857, and is living in West Alexander, Done- 
gal township, this county, wife of Wilson Rockey; 
John Richard, born June 29, 1859, is married to 
Addie Whitam, their home being also in West 
Alexander, this county; Mary Ellen, born Decem- 
ber 28. 1861, married to John Burns, and lives in 
East Finley township, this county; Juda Ann. 
born January 22, 1865, is married to John Booth, 
and lives in West Alexander, Penn. ; Sarah Cath- 
erine and Ida Florine (twins), born November 17, 
1868, died in infancy; Martin Ellsworth, born 
October 26, 1869, is united in marriage with Miss 
Addie Sprowls (they are residents of East Finley 
township); James Albert, born March 25, 1872. is 
living at home with his widowed mother, and has 
attended to the work of the farm since the death 
of his father. 

After his marriage Mr. Ealy settled on his fath- 
er's farm, which is situated in East Finley town- 
ship, opposite East Finley postoffice, and there 
made his home sixteen years, when he purchased 
the well-improved farm upon which his widow 
resides. Mr. Ealy was a very successful farmer, and 



1362 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



a man whose death was deeply mourned by the 
community in which he lived. He was a member 
of the U. B. Church at Fairmouut, and contrib- 
uted liberally to its support. In politics he was 
an active worker in the Republican party. Mr. 
Ealy died March 19, 1885, and his widow now 
manages the farm with much skill. She is a mem- 
ber of the Baptist Church at Enon. 



rii NDREW JACKSON GRIMES, a prosper- 
/ l\ ous farmer of Buffalo township, is a grand- 
Ip4\ son of William Grimes, Sr. , who was born 
II east of the mountains in Pennsylvania, and 

became a pioneer settler of Washington 
county. He married and settled in Donegal town- 
ship, where he reared nine children. 

William Grimes, son of the above, was born in 
1818, on the old homestead in Donegal township, 
this county, and in early manhood removed to 
Ohio, where he lived twenty years. He finally 
returned to Pennsylvania, and passed the remain- 
ing years of his life on the farm in Buffalo town- 
ship, which is now occupied by hisson, Andrew. He 
was a successful farmer. Mr. Grimes passed from 
earth in 1881. 

Andrew Jackson Grimes was born in the year 
1860, and passed his youth in assisting his father 
on the farm and inattendingschool,receivingagood 
education. His sister Sallie resides with him on a 
portion of the old farm. Mr. Grimes is a mem- 
ber of the United Presbyterian Church at Taylors- 
town, this county, and in politics is a Democrat, 
but is not an aspirant for political honors. 



J |OHN McPHERSON, a prominent pioneer of 
Buffalo township, was born April 1, 1812, in 
I Lancaster county, Penn. His grandfather, 
John McPherson, was a native of Ireland, 
where his entire life was passed, and where he 
died at an advanced age, leaving a sou named John. 
John McPherson (father of the subject of this 
sketch) remained in Ireland until about twenty 
years of age, when he came to America, and settled 
in Lancaster county, Penn. He was married to 
Ann Logan, and she bore him children as follows: 
William, James, John, Daniel, Ann and Mary. 
Of this family all are deceased except Ann and John. 
John McPherson remained in Lancaster county, 
Penn., until he was five years old, when he ac- 
companied his parents to Washington county, same 
State. He received his early education at a log- 
cabin subscription school, which was near his pres- 
ent home. Mr. McPherson is now a venerable 
but hale old gentleman, and is highly esteemed by 
all who know him. In politics he is a Democrat 
of the old school, but has never permitted himself 
to become prominently connected with political 
questions. , 



OLIN R. PRALL, an enterprising and 
thrifty citizen and prominent agriculturist 
of Amwell township, is a native of the 
same, having been born May 9, 1850, on 
the old farm near " Dunning Hart's." 

His grandfather, John Prall, came in an early 
day from New Jersey to Amwell township, Wash- 
ington Co., Penn., and located on the old Van- 
Kirk farm, where he passed the remainder of his 
life. He was twice married, and reared the fol- 
lowing family of children: William Harrison (de- 
ceased), Benjamin (deceased), Jackson, Mary (Mrs. 
Lacock), and Marguerite (wife of Mr. Stout). Mr. 
Prall took an active part in assisting to organize 
and develop the county, and did all in his power 
to promote any enterprise for the public good. He 
was a Democrat, but not a politician. He died in 
his eighty-second year, mourned by many friends. 

Jackson Prall was born in 1815 on the old farm 
in Amwell township, Washington county, and 
lived there until about a year after his marriage. 
He was united in marriage with Mary Jane Car- 
lile, a granddaughter of Mollie Stark, of Revolu- 
tionary fame. They had one son and one daugh- 
ter: Colin R. , and Mrs. Lizzie Jane Ward, re- 
siding in Washington county, Penn. After his 
marriage Mr. Prall purchased a farm of sixty-six 
acres, now a part of the "Dunning Hart" place, 
upon which he resided twenty-two years, when he 
removed to the old farm just south of Martins- 
burg. South Strabane township, and lived there 
eleven years, then came to the place on the Na- 
tional pike, east of Washington, where he now 
lives, retired from the more active scenes of life, 
in his seventy-sixth year. Mr. Prall has always 
given his voice and vote to the advancement of 
good government, but has never been an active 
politician. His wife died in 1878. 

Colin R. Prall, son of Jackson and Sarah Prall, 
remained on the home farm until he was thirty- 
one years of age, and received a good common- 
school education. On September 28, 1871, he was 
married to Chris A. Slusher, who was born in 
1850, a daughter of Michael and Lavina Slusher. 
In 1882 Mr. Prall purchased the farm of ninety 
acres which he now occupies, and which is one of 
the most valuable tracts in the township. He 
has, unaided, become a prosperous business man. 
Politically, he is a Democrat. 



QEORGE CUNNINGHAM is a son of Launce- 
lot Cunningham, who emigrated in 1812 
from County Donegal, Ireland, and, land- 
ing at Philadelphia, first settled in Jefferson 
township, Washington Co., Penn. In early 
manhood he was married to Hannah Virtue, also a 
native of Ireland, who immigrated with her family 
to America, and the young people began their 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1363 



wedded life on the farm in this county which is 
yet owned by their descendants. Three children 
blessed their union, namely: George; Isabelle, 
born in 1821, and Hannah, born in 18*23. 

George Cunningham was born April 27, 1819, 
on the home farm in Jefferson township, this 
county, where he is now residing, and passed his 
youth in the usual duties incumbent upon a farm- 
er's son. In 1841 he was united in marriage with 
Elizabeth Steen, who was born January 27, 1820, 
on the old Steen homestead in Jefferson township, 
(laughter of Robert Steen, who was of Irish de- 
scent. To the union of George and Elizabeth 
Cunningham the following children were born: 
Hannah Ann (Mrs. McCleary), Robert (married to 
Jane Ann Scott), Elizabeth, George (married to 
Annie McCray) and Launcelot. The mother of 
these children died December 13, 1881. George 
Cunningham began life on a very modest little 
farm, but worked away with an unfaltering will 
and tireless industry. When his father died he 
bought out the interest of the other heirs in the 
old place and kept the property in the family name, 
and he now owns between three and four hundred 
acres of fertile and well-improved farm land. In 
politics he has always voted with the Democratic 
party, and is a counselor and adviser of that fac- 
tion. In religious connection he is a member of 
the United Presbyterian Church, in which he has 
served as trustee, steward, and in various other 
capacities. 

•*jpv OBERT B. VANCE is a representative of an 
|Wv old and highly esteemed family of Independ- 
[| V, ence township. He is of Scotch descent, 
I) -^ the first ancestor of the family to immigrate 
v to America being one Joseph Vance, who 

was born in Scotland about the middle of the sev- 
enteenth century. In early manhood Joseph Vance 
left the "bonny braes" of Scotland, landing in 
America some time after, and becoming a pioneer 
settler of Pennsylvania. He located in Cross Creek 
township, Washington county, while the Indians 
were still numerous, and soon achieved a wide- 
spread reputation as an Indian fighter, many of 
the dusky warriors having fallen by his unerring 
rifle. Few if any were more prominently identi- 
fied with the early settlement of the western por- 
tion of Washington county than was Mr. Vance. 
He married and passed the remainder of his life 
in the wilderness where his first log cabin was 
erected; during his lifetime the uncultivated land 
had become a fertile farm. He and his wife passed 
to their rest at an advanced age, leaving their 
children to finish the work so nobly begun. 

Among these children was a son William, born 
in 1776, and reared in Washington county, amid 
the usual trials and dangers of pioneer life. His 
education was necessarily limited, as schools were 



few, and at best afforded but meager opportuni- 
ties. He was first married to Rachel Patterson, a 
resident of Cross Creek township, who bore him 
six children. She died, and a few years afterward 
he married, for his second wife, Hannah Patterson, 
a member of an old family of Cross Creek town- 
ship. To this union also were born six children. 
Mr. Vance always lived in Cross Creek township, 
and was one of the representative men of the day. 
He died in 1856. He was a Whig in politics, and 
in religion a member of the Presbyterian Church. 

James Vance (the third child of his father's first 
marriage) was born July 22, 1804, in Cross Creek 
township, and passed his boyhood days on his 
father's farm, receiving instruction in the princi- 
ples of agriculture, of which he made so practical 
a use in later life. He received a somewhat lim- 
ited education in the subscription schools, and in 
1829 was united in marriage with Susan Walker, 
who was born December 22, 1809, daughter of 
Alexander Walker, of Cross Creek township. The 
children born to their union were: Alvira (Mrs. 
James Dodds, of Independence township), Rachel 
(Mrs. Perry Liggett, of West Middletown, Penn.) 
and Robert B. (subject of this sketch). Mr. 
Vance continued to live in Cross Creek township 
until 1837, when he came to Independence town- 
ship, locating about two miles east of the village of 
that name, and there made his permanent home. 
Mr. Vance was formerly an Old -line Whig, and on 
the formation of the new party united with the 
Republicans. Much of the s'uccess in his business 
life was due to his own efforts and sagacious man- 
agement. Mr. Vance died in 1881, and September 
29, 1889, was followed by his widow, who was laid 
to rest by the side of her husband. Both were 
consistent members of the Presbyterian Church. 

Robert B. Vance was born August 30, 1842, 
on the old farm in Independence township, which 
is his present home. He attended the district 
schools, and assisted in the farm work. On March 
8, 1866, he was married to Rebecca McCleary, who 
was born January 1, 1844, daughter of Ewing 
McCleary, of Brooke county, W. Va., and the fol- 
lowing children were born to them: Cynthia (Mrs. 
Samuel Dunbar, of Smith township), Alvira, James 
E. and Sadie, the latter three living with their 
parents. Mr. Vance has always resided on the 
home place, and follows general farming and stock 
raising, being especially successful with the latter 
business. He is a well known and popular citizen; 
in politics he is an active member of the Demo- 
cratic party, and has been called upon to fill vari- 
ous township offices. Although Mr. Vance is not 
a church member, he believes in and supports the 
cause of religion. The "Golden Rule" is his 
motto, and by observing the precept which it con- 
tains he and his family have won the esteem and 
friendship of all who know them. 



1364 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



JACOB ZELT, one of the well-known and pros- 
perous farmers of Canton township, is a son 
of Jacob Zelt, a record of whom appears on 
page 1035. in sketch of Albert Zelt. Our 
subject was born April 21, 1850, in Washing- 
ton, Washington Co., Penn., where he continued 
to reside for many years. His early education was 
received at the common schools of his native town, 
where he received an excellent course of training, 
which was the foundation of his success in later 
life. On May 25, 1875, he was united in marriage 
with Miss Mary J., daughter of Thomas Elwood. 
After marriage the young couple took up their res- 
idence on the home farm, which our subject pur- 
chased after the death of his father, who passed 
away May 10, 1882. They have two children: 
Mary E. and Thomas A. Mr. Zelt is a member 
of the Presbyterian Church at Washington, to 
which he gives a very liberal support. In politics 
he has always been a Democrat, and is one of the 
most enterprising and intelligent citizens of his 
township. 




OBERT MANIFOLD, a leading citizen of 
North Strabane township, was born Octo- 
ber 29, 1820. He is a grandson of Joseph 
Manifold, who was a native of York county, 
Penn., where he was married and passed 
his entire life. His son. Benjamin Manifold, was 
born in 1773, and passed his youth in his native 
county, where he was married to Ann Gamble, a 
resident of the same place. The following chil- 
dren were born to their union: Elizabeth (Mrs. 
Robert Black), Ellen (Mrs. William Black), Nancy 
(wife of William Oates), Joseph, John, Mary, Jane 
and Robert. In 1818 Mr. Manifold brought his 
family to Washington county, Penn., and located 
on the Morgan farm in South Strabane township, 
where they lived until 1840, when they purchased 
the farm now owned by Robert, and there passed 
the remainder of their lives. Mr. Manifold was a 
Whig, and although not an active politician, was 
a stanch supporter of his party. He was an in- 
dustrious man, and much interested in all public 
enterprises. He was one of the leading members 
of the Presbyterian Church. 

Robert Manifold passed his early years on the 
home farm in North Strabane township, and at- 
tended the school at Washington borough some 
years. He afterward shared in the management 
of the home place, together with his brothers 
John and James, which they purchased after rent- 
ing it for several years. Mr. Manifold has never 
married and his sister keeps house for him. About 
three years ago the brothers made a division of the 
property, and the home place fell to the share of 
Robert. He then built a large house and barn, 
and made many other improvements. Politically 



he was formerly a Whig, and, since the organiza- 
tion of the party, has been a stanch Republican, 
although never accepting political office. He is a 
member of the Chartiers Presbyterian Church, to 
which he contributes liberally. 



AMUEL CLARK WEIR, a prosperous and 
successful farmer of Morris township, is the 
youngest in a family of seven children born 
to Samuel Clark and Annie (Parkinson) 
Weir. Samuel Clark Weir, Sr., was born in 1815, 
and iu 1847 was married to Annie Parkinson, who 
was born in Washington county in 1S23, daughter 
of Robert Parkinson, of Morris township. They 
had seven children, namely: Hallace, Robert A., 
Mary Ellen, Elizabeth Ann, Adam and a twin 
brother, unnamed, who both died soon after birth, 
and Samuel Clark. Of this family but two are 
living: Robert A., who married Inez Andrew and 
resides in Amwell township, and Samuel O, the 
subject of this sketch. 

Samuel C. Weir was but an infant when his 
mother died, and he was reared by Zebulon Lindley, 
with whom he made his home until 1878. He 
was married in that year to Eliza Jane Post, who 
was born March 13, 1855, a daughter of Munson 
Post, of Morris township, and to this union were 
born three children: Mary Elizabeth, born March 
31, 1881; and twins, born March 2, 1891, who 
lived but a short time. Mr. Weir gives especial 
attention to stock raising, dealing principally in 
horses. He is a Democrat in politics, and in re- 
ligion both he and Mrs. Weir are members of the 
Cumberland Presbyterian Church at Old Concord. 



J JOHN W. STEWART. This enterprising, 
I representative citizen of Buffalo township is 
I a grandson of Thomas Stewart, a native of 
Ireland, who in early manhood immigrated 
to America, making his permanent home in Wash- 
ington county, Penn., where he became one of the 
most prosperous and highly respected farmer citi- 
zens of Donegal township. 

John Welch Stewart, father of the subject of 
this sketch, was born April 1, 18<>6, in Donegal 
township, near Claysville, Washington Co., Penn., 
and received an unusually good education fur that 
period, although his earlier instruction was re- 
ceived in the traditional primitive log schoolhouse. 
He commenced life as a traveling salesman, carry- 
ing his goods by wagon, and selling them by 
wholesale to the retail dealers in the smaller towns. 
Afterward he rented a farm, commencing a suc- 
cessful agricultural career; later he resided near 
Washington, in Canton township, and in 1840 
bought a farm in Buffalo township. He was mar- 
ried April .">, 1831, to .lane, daughter of William 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1367 



McCall (deceased), a native of Washington county, 
born December 20, 1808, and their family consisted 
of the following children: William M., born Feb- 
ruary 24, 1832, died November, 1862; Thomas, 
born December 27, 1833, living in New Jersey; 
Mary M. , born February 2, 1836, died January 26, 
1885; Robert, born June 23, 1837, a practicing 
physician in Allegheny county, Penn.; Jane, born 
September 11, 1841, deceased at the age of eight 
years; two that died in infancy; Anna M. , born 
August 17, 1845, married to Samuel Wright, of 
Buffalo township; John W., and James M., the 
latter born January 25, 1850. The father died 
August 31, 1866, the mother February 13, 1885. 

John W. Stewart, son of John Welch and Jane 
(McCall) Stewart, was born November 3, 1847, on 
his father's farm in Buffalo township, and received 
a good education at the common schools of his 
district. When his father died, John W. took 
charge of the home place of 217 acres, upon which 
he now resides. He was united in marriage Octo- 
ber 11, 1877, with Maggie, daughter of R. S. 
Caldwell, of Hopewell township, this county, and 
they have three children: Robert Vance, born 
April 18, 1879; Irene, born January 31, 1883, and 
John Lloyd, born January 27, 1887. Mr. Stewart 
is one of the most successful and progressive farm- 
ers and stock raisers in Washington county, and 
grows annually a large amount of wool, having at 
the present time a tine flock of 300 sheep. He 
takes an active interest in politics as a member of 
the Republican party. He and his wife are both 
connected with the North Buffalo United Presby- 
terian Church. 



J (AMES F. WELCH, a leading merchant of 
West Middletown, was born June 22, 1848, in 
) West Finley township, Washington Co. , Penn. 
He is a grandson of James Welch, the latter 
of whom was born and reared in eastern Penn- 
sylvania, and when a young man came to Wash 
ington county. James Welch was there married 
to Margaret Johnson, daughter of one of the earli- 
est pioneers of the county, who made a home in 
Independence township, suffering much from the 
Indians, who were then very hostile. To Mr. and 
Mrs. Welch were born the following children: An- 
drew (deceased in youth), Rachel (Mrs. James 
Haggerty), Robert, Ephraim, Jane (Mrs. James 
Hunter), Abel, Mary (wife of Andrew Paxton), 
Eliza (married to Dr. William Smith), Nimrod 
(living in Iowa), John, James and Aaron. After 
his marriage Mr. Welch settled on the unimproved 
farm in Independence township, which has since 
been cultivated by the family, in whose possession 
it has remained. Politically James Welch was a 
Whig, taking an active part in local politics. He 
was a leading member of the Associate Reformed 



Church, in which he served as an elder many years, 
and toward which he was a liberal contributor. He 
is buried at Mt. Hope. 

Aaron Welch was born June 16, 1819, in Inde- 
pendence township, this county; he passed his 
early life on the home farm, and received his edu- 
cation at the log schoolhouse, with its puncheon 
floor and huge fireplace. In 1843 he was united 
in marriage with Ann, daughter of James Futhey, 
of Cross Creek township, an old settler of this 
couuty. Mr. Welch remained on the home place 
some years after his marriage, and then moved to 
West Finley township, this county, but soon after 
purchased a farm in Cross Creek township. This 
he sold, and bought a farm in Hopewell township, 
where he remained till spring; then traded for 
another place in the same township, where he re- 
mained but a short time, and then moved to Inde- 
pendence township. Some time afterward he pur- 
chased- a farm near West Middletown, where he 
made a permanent home. Children were born to 
Mr. and Mrs. Aaron Welch as follows: Elizabeth 
M. (Mrs. A. W. McConnell), Lucretia A. (de- 
ceased), James F., Mary J. (Mrs. D. A. Scott), 
Edith A. (wife of Nathaniel Paxton), Rachel M. 
(deceased wife of T. M. Cowden), Maria M. (Mrs. 
John Nolan), and one that died in infancy. Mr. 
Welch was formerly a Whig and then a Repub 
lican. He took an active part in local politics, and 
served his township in various capacities. In re- 
ligion he was first a member of the Associate Re- 
formed Church, afterward uniting with the United 
Presbyterian Society, in which he was an elder for 
years. He was actively interested in church mat- 
ters, giving liberally to all worthy enterprises. 
He died January 13, 1879, having been preceded 
by his wife in 1870, and both are buried in the 
cemetery at Mt. Hope. 

James F. Welch remained on the home farm near 
West Middletown, until about twenty-one years of 
age, when he engaged in teaching school. He 
followed this profession several years, then worked 
two years in his brother-in-law's store at Venice, 
this county, and in 1875 commenced business at 
West Middletown. On September 16, 1875, he was 
united in marriage with Lizzie R., daughter of 
William Berry, who was born June 31, 1819, in 
Mt. Pleasant township, this county. His grand- 
father, John Berry, was born in Ireland, and there 
learned the shoemaker's trade. He then came to 
America, settling in Lancaster county, Penn., 
where he lived some years, and afterward moved to 
Washington county, where he purchased a farm 
from part of the grant given to George Washing- 
ton. He was engaged in the distillery business. 

John Berry was born in Lancaster county, Penn., 
and was reared and educated on the home place. 
He was married to Rachel Phillips, who bore him 
the following named children: Jonathan, Eliza A. 



i:ws 



WAS HIX G TOX CO UX TY. 



(Mrs. Alexander May), Mary (wife of Robert Rid- 
dle), John, William aud Samuel. Mr. Berry fol- 
lowed farming all his life. In politics he was a 
Whig, then an Abolitionist, and afterward a Re- 
publican. He was a member and elder of the As- 
sociate Reformed Church for many years, then 
united with the D. P. Church. He died iu 1870, 
his wife in 1860. 

William Berry spent his early years on the home 
place in Lancaster county, Penn. , and there passed 
his whole life. In 1849 he was married to Mar- 
tha J., daughter of John Colkins, and their chil- 
dren were, Lizzie R. (Mrs. J. F. Welch), Martha 
L., Mary (wife of David A. McCalmont), Ella B., 
Ida and James G. Mrs. Berry died January 8, 
1865, and was buried at Venice. On January 30, 
1878, Mr. Berry was united in marriage with Jane 
G. Reed. He was a Whig aud Abolitionist, then 
a Republican, and finally a Prohibitionist. He 
was a member of the Associate Reformed Church, 
aud afterward united with the U. P. Society. 

To Mr. and Mrs. James F. Welch have been 
born the following children: Anna M., Edith M. 
and Nellie T. Mr. Welch is a successful business 
man, and in politics was a Republican, now be- 
ing a Prohibitionist. He has served faithfully in 
various offices. In religious connection he is a 
member and elder of the U. P. Church. 



ffOHN P. MANES. The family which this 
I gentleman represents are among the earliest 
H J ] pioneers of Allegheny county, Penn. The 
^^ first one of whom we have an autheutic 
record is one Culbert Manes, who was born 
August 14, 1799, and reared in New Jersey, and 
came to Allegheny county, Penn., in the latter part 
of the past century. He was there united in mar- 
riage with Susan, daughter of Samuel Van Kirk, 
who was of New Jersey descent, and a member of 
one of the oldest families in the county. They 
were prominent iu the Revolutionary war, many of 
them having served under Washington; Mr. Van- 
Kirk took an active part in the battle of Brandy- 
wine. While living in New Jersey he was mar- 
ried to Mary Price, who bore him children as fol- 
lows: Samuel, Joseph, John, Isaac, Thomas, Will- 
iam, Sarah, Betsey, Mary, Ruth and Susan (who 
became the wife of Culbert Manes). In politics 
Mr. Van Kirk was a Democrat: he followed farm- 
ing and stock raising. 

After his marriage Mr. Manes settled on a place 
in Allegheny county, Penn., where he remained 
until 1857, when he purchased a farm iu North 
Strabane township, Washington county, where he 
made a permanent residence. His children were: 
John P. (subject of sketch), Mary J. (Mrs. Wesley 
Greer), Samuel, Margaret (Mrs. T. H. Lyon) and 
Joseph V. Mr. Manes always followed the busi- 



ness of farming and stock raising. Politically he 
was a Democrat, aud was frequently called upon 
to serve the township in different capacities. He 
was a member and liberal supporter of the Presby- 
terian Church. 

John P. Manes passed his youth on the home 
farm in Allegheny county, Penn., and received a 
common-school education. In 1849 he went to St. 
Joseph, Mo. , and purchased mules for a Pittsburgh 
compauy, continuing in that business about six 
months, and then, joining a party of gold seekers, 
went to California, where he remained seven years, 
engaged in mining and other occupations. He 
then returned to Pennsylvania, and on August 8, 
1858, was married to Mary, daughter of John Mc- 
Millan. Soon after his marriage, Mr. Manes set- 
tled on the farm in North Strabane township, this 
county, which is his present home, and has since 
been engaged in farming and stock raising. He 
has three children: Culbert, Mary A. (Mrs. David 
Crone) and John A. Mr. Manes is one of the lead- 
ing citizens of Washington county, but has recently 
retired from active life. He takes an active inter- 
est in church matters, and is a member of the 
Presbyterian Society, in which he serves as trustee. 
He votes independently of any party, but favors 
the Democratic platform. 



JAMES ALBERT RICHEY. The pioneer 
ancestor of the Richey family was John 
Richey, a native of Ireland, who came to 
America in a very early day, and settled on 
300 acres of land in Marshall county, W. Va. , 
for which he paid $2 per acre. He procured the 
necessary amount of money by raising flax, which 
was then spun and woven into fine linen. He was 
married and had three children, namely: John, 
James and Moses. 

James Richey (grandfather of subject) was born 
in 1773, in Marshall county, W. Va., and passed 
his youth in working on the home farm. He was 
married to Miss Nancy Taylor, of Marshall county, 
born near Wolf Run, and they continued to live 
on the home farm the rest of their lives. The fol- 
lowing children were born to them: Ellen (Mrs. 
Edwards), Anna (Mrs. Cummins), Martha (Mrs. 
Savers), Nancy (Mrs. Seaton), Lucy (Mrs. Lewis), 
Jane (Mrs. Fish), Margaret (deceased in youth I. 
John (father of our subject), James, Moses, Crosier 
and Taylor (these four died in childhood). 

John Richey was born October 24, 1819, in 
Marshall county, W. Va. , and passed his youth at 
home, assisting in the general duties of the farm. 
On March 28, 1844, he was united in marriage with 
Miss Margaret Kimmins, who was born March 21 r 
1824, in Washington county, Penn. After their 
marriage the young people settled in Honeytown r 
W. Va., where Mr. Richev followed mercantile 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



\:m 



business two years, and then removed to a farm 
at Rosby's Rock, W. Va. , where lie lived about 
twenty-five years, thence removing to the farm in 
West Finley township, this county, where he died. 
Eleven children were born to them: Andrew K., 
born in June, 1S45 (was killed in the war in 1865); 
Sarah M. , born iu March, 1846; Nancy E., born 
December 21, 1847; John Taylor, bom November 
19, 1849; James A., born March 16, 1853; Will- 
iam C, born November 13, 1854 (deceased in 
youth); Eva J., born May 1, 1856; Samuel W., 
born September 14, 1858; Anna S., born Novem- 
ber 17, 1860; Frank M., born December 7, 1862 
(died in youth); and R. Swan, born March 11, 1865. 
James A. Richey was born on the old farm in 
Marshall county, W. Va. , and passed his youth 
with his parents. On December 24, 1874, he was 
married to Miss Louisa, daughter of John Mooney, 
of Marshall county, W. Va. To their union was 
born one child, which lived but six days, and on 
July 12, 1887, the mother followed it to the grave. 
The desolate husband and father sought forget- 
fulness in western travel, and was afterward mar- 
ried to Viola McCully, of Marshall county, W. Va. ; 
she was born February 5, 1868, on the farm of her 
father, Alexander McCully. Mr. and Mrs. Richey 
have one daughter, Radia Florence, born October 
12, 1890. Mr. Richey began life as a farmer, but 
his health failing, he was forced to seek lighter 
employment, and selling his farm (with the excep- 
tion of ten acres) became a stock and wool dealer. 
He then engaged in mercantile business with his 
father for two years, but soon resumed his former 
vocation. He has kept free from debt, and owns 
two houses and lots in Businessburgh, Ohio, besides 
about 100 acres of land. In politics he is a pillar 
of the Republican party. 



JACOB LEGLER is one of the successful ag- 
riculturists of Union township. He is a son 
! of Jacob Legler, who was born in Witten- 
berg, Germany, where he was married to 
Rosanna Freoh, who was born on the farm near 
Ruplesburg, where her husband lived. They set- 
tled on a farm in their native country, and children 
were born to them as follows: George, Andrew, 
Jacob, Catherine, Rosanna and Fredrick, of whom 
Catherine and Andrew are deceased. Jacob and 
Andrew came to America in 1852, where Andrew 
followed the business of a journeyman baker; 
he died of cholera during the year of their arrival 
in the New World. 

Jacob Legler was born August 19, 1837, on tjie 
home place in Wittenberg, Germany, and was but 
fourteen years of age when he and his brother 
emigrated. Upon landing in the New World he 
was apprenticed to a baker, and after the death of 
his brother continued working in the shop for 



three years, then followed the trade for two years 
as a journeyman baker, afterward working three 
years as a pastry cook in different hotels. After 
his marriage Mr. Legler was next employed for 
five years as steward on a steamboat, and in 1865 
opened a confectionery store in Monongahela, in 
which business he continued for twelve years. He 
finally bought 105 acres of land in Union township, 
Washington county, and started a coal works, em- 
ploying from fifty to 120 men. He conducted this 
enterprise ten years, when, on account of the rail- 
road switch being torn up, they abandoned the works. 
He then entered into partnership with Messrs. Fritch- 
man & Florsheim, and they opened the Germania 
Coal Works, which have proved more profitable 
than the original plant, and employ from 150 to 160 
men. In politics Mr. Legler is a stanch advocate of 
Republican principles, and in religion he is a mem- 
ber of the German Lutheran Church. In 1859 
he was united in marriage with Elizabeth Gliess, 
of Allegheny county, Penn., who died some years 
ago, leaving the following named children: Jacob 
C. , John, William, Elizabeth, Sarah, George, 
Margaret, Mary and James B. For his second 
wife he married Sarah, daughter of Jacob Rhine, 
a retired boat builder of Monongahela, and they 
are living on the farm in Union township. 



»Jr=\^ D. HAMILTON, a leading agriculturist of 
\l*/y Chartiers township, first saw the light of 
f\, day on the farm which is now his home, in 
JJ -^ that township. He attended the common 
v schools and afterward took a three years' 

course at Washington and Jefferson College. He in- 
tended to enter the ministry, but ill health com- 
pelled him to abandon this, and he became a " tiller 
of the soil." On November 28, 1881, he was 
married to Sadie B. , daughter of R. M. and Mary 
(Martin) Morgan. Mr. Morgan has been an elder 
in the Presbyterian Church at Canonsburg and 
Miller's Run for many years. Five children have 
blessed the union of R. D. and Sadie B. Hamilton, 
namely: Bertie M., Cora E., Claire B., Elsie M. 
and Hazel B. The entire family are members of 
the Presbyterian Church, in which Mr. Hamilton 
has been an elder for the past six years, also serv- 
ing as Sabbath-school superintendent. In polit- 
ical opinion he is a Democrat. The home farm 
contains 104 acres, and upon the pastures large 
flocks of sheep are grazing, to which he gives 
especial care. He is a member of the National 
Delaine Stock Breeders Association. 



di OHN M ALDOON, one of the progressive and 
popular young agriculturists of Donegal 
I township, is a son of Franklin Maldoon, who 
was born in 1793, in County Down, Ireland. 
The latter immigrated to America, and lo- 
cating in Donegal township, married Jane Roberts, 



137i» 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



born in 1818, whose parents were among the 
pioneer settlers of the community. The children 
born to this union were Thomas (now living in 
Pettis county, Mo.), John (deceased in infancy), 
Mary Ann and Sarah J. (twins, now deceased), 
Nancy (now Mrs. James Gray, of Wheeling, W. 
Va.), Robert, George, Matilda and Moses (all four 
deceased), Felix (farming in Ohio county, W. Va. ), 
Margaret (Mrs. Wayts, of Ohio county, W. Va.), 
Iantha (Mrs. John Wherry, residing in Ohio county, 
W. Va. ), Felicia (unmarried, who lived with her 
father) and John (the subject of this sketch). 
After his marriage Franklin Maldoon made his 
permanent home on the farm, where he died in 
1881, and was followed to the grave by his wife in 
1888. He was a successful farmer, and a typical 
eon of the Emerald Isle, possessing the true na- 
tive energy and enterprise. He accumulated a 
comfortable property and enjoyed the friendship 
and respect of his neighbors. 

John Maldoon, whose name opens this sketch, 
was born March 3, 1862, on the farm which he 
now owns and lives upon. It is situated about 
three and one half miles north of West Alexander, 
in Donegal township, near the West Virginia line. 
His boyhood was passed on his father's farm and 
in attending the common schools. On May 23, 
1887, he was united in marriage with Annie 
Rogers, who was born April 24, 1864, a daughter 
of James Rogers, of Ohio count)', W. Va., and 
three children have been born to them, namely. 
James Francis, Harry Edgar (deceased in infancy) 
aud an infant daughter. Mr. Maldoon has always 
lived on the home farm, and followed agricult- 
ural pursuits. He is an active and industrious 
young man, and gives fair promise of becoming 
one of the prominent men in his community. 
Politically, lie is a Democrat. 



r 



MflCHAEL WOLFE, deceased farmer of 
Allen township, was born in 1791, in Vir- 
ginia. His father, George Wolfe, was 
J born in the Shenandoah Valley, Va., 
and he and his wife afterward moved to 
Western Virginia, where they died. 

Michael Wolfe was reared and educated in Vir- 
ginia, and in early manhood came to Allen town- 
ship, Washington Co., Penn.. where he followed 
fanning and river life. He was there married to 
Sallie Allen, who was a great-grandchild of Joseph 
and Deborah (Hill) Allen. The latter couple were 
natives of eastern Pennsylvania, and coming to 
Washington county prior to the Revolution, took 
up a vast tract of land under a Virginia certificate, 
and became identified with the earliest history of 
this county. They were Quakers. Eli Allen, son 
of Joseph and Deborah (Hill) Allen, was born in 
eastern Pennsylvania, aud came on horseback from 



Chester county to Fayette county, Penn., where he 
was married to Sarah Griffith, and finally settled 
on his father's tract in Washington county, Penn. 
He died in Indiana. 

Joseph Allen, son of Eli and Sarah Allen, was 
bora in Fayette county, where he was reared and 
educated. In early life he was united in marriage 
with Alma Thompson, a native of Fayette county, 
and they moved to a farm in Allen township, 
Washington county, and he followed his vocation 
of boat-building. In political opinion he was a 
Jacksonian Democrat, and was an esteemed citi- 
zen. He died December 10, 1832, leaving a 
widow, since deceased. They were the parents of 
the following children: Letitia, born in March, 
I mis (deceased wife of Allen Stockdale); Ruth, 
born August 30, 1809 (Mrs. Michael Wolfe), de- 
ceased many years ago; Eli, born January 23, 
1811 (deceased in infancy); Sarah (widow of 
Michael Wolfe), bora June 12, 1812; Eli, born 
March 22, 1814 (deceased in Fayette county, 
Penn., January 18, 1884, married to Martha 
Donaldson); Joanna, born September 15, 1815 
(wife of Francis McKee, of Uniontown, Penn.); 
Joseph, born December 4, 1817 (married to Jane 
Lyons, and living in Beaver county, Penn.); and 
Barbara (deceased in infancy). 

Michael and Sallie (Allen) Wolfe began wedded 
life on a portion of the Allen tract, in Allen town- 
ship, and his widow is yet living on seventy-five 
acres adjoining Stockdale, and rents the home 
farm. In political opinion Mr. Wolfe was a 
Democrat. He died November 2, 1880. 



diOHN M. DUNN. Foremost among the young 
business men of Morris township stands the 
gentleman whose name opens this sketch. 
He is a son of Daniel Dunn, Jr., of Scotch- 
Irish descent, whose grandparents emigrated 
from England in early colonial days. 

Joseph Dunn came to Washington county at a 
time when it was but a vast wilderness, carrying 
his possessions in a bandanna handkerchief. He 
blazed trees, raised sheep and stock, and when he 
died he possessed a large estate. He settled over 
the line in Greene county and there died. He 
married Elizabeth Montgomery, of Washington 
county, Penn., and to this union nine chili hen 
were born: Sarah, Daniel, James M., Elizabeth, 
Joseph, Caroline, Hannah, Cassius and William. 
Of these James M. , Joseph, Hannah, Elizabeth and 
William are living. 

Daniel Dunn. Jr. (father of subject), was born 
October 21, 1830. He was reared to farm life, re- 
ceived a common-school education, and afterward 
entered Wayneslmrg College, from which — but for 
the untimely death of his father — he would have 
graduated. He taught school, and after his father's 






s%r. <5w^" 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1373 



death virtually assumed charge of the vast estate 
which the latter had left. His excellent business 
ability was here shown, his management of the 
estate being of a nature which would have done 
credit to one of much greater experience in busi- 
ness affairs. In 1856 he married Eunice Minton, 
who was born April 8, 1836, a daughter of John 
Minton, of Morris township, and of this union 
there were the following children: John M. ; 
Joseph Lincoln, born December 25, 1859;Isadore, 
bom August 12, 1862, died November 25, 1865; 
Clara, born July 29, 1865. Mr. Dunn was a suc- 
cessful and prominent business man, giving a con- 
siderable portion of his time to the settlement of 
estates entrusted to his care. He was elder and 
superintendent for years in West Union Cumber- 
land Presbyterian Church and an active worker in 
church matters. He died June 14, 1886. His 
widow makes her home with her son, J. Lincoln, 
who resides on the old home farm near Dunn's 
Station, Morris township. 

John Minton Dunn was born June 7, 1857. He 
attended the common schools until he attained the 
age of seventeen, when he entered Waynesburgh 
College, where he pursued his studies for three 
years. On account of the failing health of his 
father, whose position of trust iu business and in- 
dividual possessions required considerable atten- 
tion, he was called home at the expiration of this 
time to render necessary assistance. His father's 
health being partially regained, John M. went to 
Iowa, and located in Des Moines, engaging in the 
dry-goods business, but the failing health of his 
father again called him to the old home to assist 
in the management and settlement of business 
trusts, and here he remained until after his 
father's death, which occurred in 1886. On De- 
cember 12, 1882, Mr. Dunn married Annie Ross, 
who was born August 18, 1862, a daughter of Tim- 
othy Ross, of Morris township, and of English 
origin, her great grandparents having been natives 
of England. Of this union the following children 
were born: Ross Allen, born October 2, 1884; 
Laura Isadore, born April 25. 1886; Harold J., 
born July 5, 1889; and Annie E., born December 
23, 1892. For four years after his marriage Mr. 
Dunn lived on the home farm with his father, and 
then purchased adjoining land, where he has 
since resided. 

Mr. Dunn is an enterprising business man, and 
one of the busiest in Washington county, having 
within the last two years settled four estates. He 
is secretary of the Morris Oil & Gas Company, 
deals quite extensively iu real estate, owns consider- 
able farm property, which is worked under his 
personal direction, and is also a dealer in wool. In 
politics he is an active Republican, and for six 
years has been a school director, for two success- 
ive terms in a Democratic township, which has 



two Democrats to one Republican, and was presi- 
dent of the school board. He was last elected by 
a much larger majority than at first; he is a man 
who stands for his convictions in the face of opposi- 
tion, and of advanced ideas in educational matters. 
He and his wife are members of the West Union 
Cumberland Presbyterian Church, in which he is 
elder and Sunday-school superintendent. He is 
stated clerk of the Pennsylvania Presbytery of the 
Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Pennsylvania 
(the oldest Presbytery of the State), a position he 
has held for some eight or nine years, being the 
first elder that ever held the position. He repre- 
sented the eldership of this Presbytery in the 
General Assembly at Memphis, Tenn., in May, 
1892. He has been trustee of Waynesburgh Col- 
lege four years, and has been re-elected three 
times; has been secretary and treasurer of the 
church for ten or twelve years; has held many 
positions of trust in his county, and has always 
declined re-election or re-appointment, never being 
set aside, and he enters heart and soul into all 
matters he undertakes. The Morris Oil & Gas 
Company was organized in 1889, and Mr. Dunn 
was at once chosen secretary and general manager. 
He is serving his third term as a member of the 
county vigilance committee, and has served twice 
on the county executive committee. He has been 
director in the W. Mt. M. N. & W. Telephone 
Company since the completion of the line in 1889. 
Timothy Ross, father of Mrs. John M. Dunn, 
was a prosperous farmer of Greene county, and 
was a buyer of cattle, wool, etc. The county line 
ran through his farm, and he chose Morris town- 
ship as a living place. He married Joanna Tharp 
(daughter of Samuel Tharp), and both died many 
years ago of typhoid fever, the father dying first, 
the mother a few weeks later. When the wife of 
our subject was small, an uncle of our subject, 
Daniel Dunn, Sr. , helped nurse them, and he, too, 
died. Mr. and Mrs. Ross had six children: Ella, 
Thomas, Hiram, Virginia (deceased), Annie (Mrs. 
Dunn) and Laura (wife of James Miner, of Jeffer- 
son, Greene county). Mrs. Dunn's home was in Jef- 
ferson, where she attended college and graduated. 




^ILLIAM RUSSELL is a prominent and 
influential member of a pioneer family, 
the first of whom to settle iu Washington 
county being Abraham Russell, who was 
born in Ireland, and came to America 
soon after the war of the Revolution. He married 
in this country, and became one of the earliest set- 
tlers of Smith township, this county, at a time when 
the Indians were yet troublesome to the white pio- 
neers. He was a successful farmer, and served his 
country in the war of 1812, and died at an advanced 
age, leaving the following children who lived to 



1374 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



adult age: William (mentioned elsewhere in this 
record), James and Juhu (twins, the latter deceased 
in Allegheny county, Penn.) and Nancy (wife of 
Jacob Drake, a farmer of Armstrong county, Penn.). 

James Russell (a son of Abraham) was born and 
reared on his father's farm in Smith township, as- 
sisting his father both with the farm work ami in 
distilling, which was then a common vocation ', 
aiming the farmers. About 1819 he was married ■ 
to Rachel, daughter of Abraham Scott, and chil- 
dren were born to them as follows: Abraham, 
Jane (who died of cancer at the age of twenty- 
eight years), Samuel (living in Guernsey county, 
Ohio), Sarah (widow of William Aten), James (of 
Beaver county, Penn.), Mary (Mrs. Alexander Mo- 
Connell, of the town of Beaver, Penn.), William 
(subject of this sketch) and Margaret (deceased 
wife of Lorenzo Cohen). Mr. and Mrs. James Rus- 
sell passed their married life in Robinson town- 
ship, this county, both living to a good old age. 
Like his ancestors before him, he was an excellent 
citizen, steady and industrious, winning and re- 
taining the respect of his neighbors. Politically 
he was a Democrat, deeply interested in the success 
of his party. His widow survived him ten years, 
and was then laid to rest by his side. 

William Russell (the subject of this biography) 
was born February 23, 1830, in Robinson town- ; 
ship, this county, and began work on the farm 
as soon as he was old enough to be useful. On 
October 20, 1859, he was married to Rebecca Gor- 
don, who was born in 1837, a daughter of David 
Gordon, of Robinson township, this county, and 
they have had the following children: James, 
Rachel, David M. (a farmer living on the home 
farm in Robinson township), Alice J. and William 
M. William Russell and his wife first settled on the 
home farm which he yet owns, and resided upon 
till 1885. He then came to Smith township, locat- 
ing on the fertile farm of 170 acres which he is now 
occupying, situated near the headwaters of Rac- 
coon creek, about three aud a half miles south of 
Burgettstown, this county. In 1892 Mr. Russell 
erected a handsome residence which adds to the 
value and beauty of his property. He has always 
been a successful farmer and careful financier; 
he raises the best quality of stock, such as Black-Top 
sheep, Durham cattle and Poland-China hogs. In 
politics he is a Democrat, but votes for the man 
rather than the party, and in religion he and his wife 
are members of Cross Creek Presbyterian Church. 



\ILLIAM H. FRAZIER, a worthy repre- 
sentative of one of the oldest and most 
prominent families in the county, comes 
of Highland-Scotch descent, his great- 
grandfather, Andrew Prazier, the first of 

the family to come to this country, having been 

born in Inverness, Scotland. 




Andrew Frazier married, in his native land, 
Christina Ross, and in 1772 came with his family 
to the United States, making his first settlement 
in Chartiers township, this county, where he re- 
mained some years, and then purchased a farm 
in what is now West Finley township, same county, 
which piece of land, some four hundred acres in ex- 
tent, was at that time nearly all unbroken forest. 
The children born to this worthy old pioneer were 
David, Alexander, Daniel, Elizabeth (Mrs. William 
McDonald) and Nancy (Mrs. John Echols). The 
parents of this family died in West Finley town- 
ship, at advanced ages, having experienced all the 
trials and hardships incident to the early times of 
their coming here. They were members of the 
old " Three Ridges " Presbyterian Church, and in 
politics Mr. Frazier was a Democrat. 

David Frazier, grandfather of William H. Fra- 
zier, was born in 1779, in Washington county, 
Penn., and the days of his boyhood and youth 
were passed on his father's farm in Finley town- 
ship, a few weeks in the winter season being de- 
voted to attending the primitive subscription 
schools of the neighborhood. While yet a young 
man he was married to Jane Ross, of Finley, and 
then purchased a farm in that township, where he 
passed the rest of his days, diligently and success- 
fully engaged in general agriculture. He had in 
early life studied civil engineering, which he fol- 
lowed to some extent in the county. To David 
and Jane (Ross) Frazier were born seven children, 
as follows: Thomas, Margaret, Andrew B., Jane 
(Mrs. Daniel McCoy), Christina O. (Mrs. Perry E. 
Whitham), William and Alfred Ross, all now de- 
ceased except Andrew B. , who is a Presbyterian 
minister in Bethany, 111. The father died in 1839, 
the mother in 1866. They were members and 
liberal supporters of the Presbyterian Church at 
West Alexander. Politically. Mr. Frazier was a 
Democrat, and held many offices of honor and 
trust in his township, being a leader in his com- 
munity. He was elected to the Legislature of the 
State of Pennsylvania, serving one term with 
marked ability, aud he was a justice of the peace 
many years, in which capacity he was looked up 
to as a just man and a peacemaker. His walk 
through life was quiet, unobtrusive and Christian- 
like. 

Thomas Frazier, the eldest son of David, was 
born in 1810 in that portion of Finley township 
now known as West Finley, and his early life was 
spent in Canonsburg, same county, where he was 
partly educated. He also attended the West 
Alexander Academy for a time, and then entered 
Jefferson College, where he graduated about the 
year 1831. He was twice married: On the first 
occasion, in 1839, to Nancy, daughter of William 
Hall, of West Alexander, by which union there 
were four children: William H, David (in New 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1375 



Mexico), Agnes (wife of J. W. Blayney, and re- 
siding in Washington, Penn.), and one that died in 
infancy- The mother of this family dying in 1862, 
Mr. Frazier married in 1865, for his second wife, 
Barbara, daughter of John McDonald. After his 
first marriage Mr. Frazier embarked in mercantile 
business in West Alexander, where he remained 
some years, and then moved to New Concord, Ohio, 
where lie continued business in the same line. 
This he sold out after two years, and then returned 
to his native township, where he purchased a farm 
and followed agricultural pursuits, including stock 
raising, until 1869, in which year he moved to the 
borough of West Alexander, where he lived a re- 
tired life until his death which occurred September 
17, 1877. His widow still survives him. He 
practiced civil engineering and surveying for a 
time, and he it was who surveyed the West Alex- 
ander cemetery, where his remains now repose. 
He was a lifelong Democrat, and filled many 
prominent local positions of trust with character- 
istic care and integrity, and for the office of justice 
of the peace, to which he was twice elected, he 
evinced peculiar aptness. He was a member of the 
Presbyterian Church. 

William H. Frazier, the subject proper of this 
memoir, was born April 9, 1840, in the borough of 
West Alexander, Washington Co., Penn., at the 
common schools of which place he received his 
rudimentary education, afterward attending the 
McCluskey Academy. In 1870 he embarked in the 
grocery business at Bellaire, Ohio, in which he 
continued seven years, and then moved to West 
Alexander, where he has since remained. On 
February 12, 1889, he was married to K. R., 
daughter of W. H. Johnson, of Wheeling, W. Va. 
Politically he is a Democrat, and during President 
Cleveland's administration he was appointed post- 
master at West Alexander, serving the incumbency 
four years. He is a member of the Presbyterian 
Church at West Alexander, and is a much re- 
spected citizen. 



d[ OHN HERRON, a prosperous and progressive 
resident of Washington county, is a son of 
) Joseph Herron, whose father, James Herron, 
was brought with his father's family to 
America at an early day. 

James Herron was born in County Down, Ire- 
land, and remained there during his boyhood, 
coming to America in the latter part of the eight- 
eenth century. He located in North Strabane 
township, Washington Co. , Penn., on the farm now 
owned by his grandson, James. In early life he 
was married to Rachel Reed, a resident of Ohio, 
and children were born to them as follows: Charles, 
John, William, James, Robert, John, Joseph, 
Thomas and Rachel. In politics Mr. Herron was 



an active member of the Democratic party, and in 
religion was connected with the Seceder Church. 

Joseph Herron, son of James and Rachel (Reed) 
Herron, was born January 2, 1797, on the home 
farm in North Strabane township, and received his 
education at the subscription schools. On January 
3, 1824, he was united in marriage with Margaret, 
daughter of Daniel Hastings, of Somerset town- 
ship, and the young couple settled on the home 
farm, upon which, in 1850, Mr. Herron erected a 
handsome brick residence, now occupied by his son 
James. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph 
Herron were Rachel, born December 15, 1824 
Robert, born September 30, 1826; James, borr 
September 18, 1828; John, born August 20, 1830 
Sarah (Mrs. Jonathan Peese), born April 22, 1833 
Joseph, born December 8, 1834; Margaret A 
(Mrs. Robert Muunel), born October 4, 1837; and 
Elizabeth (Mrs. John B. Herron), born October 6, 
1842. Politically Mr. Herron was a Democrat, 
and served as judge of elections aud school director; 
he was a lieutenant in the militia, and in religious 
connection was a member and trustee of the 
Seceder Church, toward which he was a liberal 
supporter. He died January 25, 1852, his widow 
on March 18, 1854, and both were buried in the 
Pigeon Creek U. P. cemetery. 

John Herron was born August 20, 1830, in North 
Strabane township, this county, and passed his 
earlier youth on the farm, where he received a 
common-school education. He was married Oc- 
tober 20, 1862, to Catherine, daughter of Samuel 
Munnell, and their children are Calvin, William 
B., Robert S., Edward J., Charles M., John W. 
and Ray Q. Mr. Herron enjoys the esteem of all 
his neighbors and acquaintances, having won a 
well-merited success by his own efforts. He is an 
active worker in the Democratic party, and for 
several years has been a member of the school 
board of South Strabane township, giving his aid 
and influence to the promotion of improvements in 
the schools. He is equally interested in religious 
matters, and assists in the support and manage- 
ment of the United Presbyterian Church at Mount 
Pleasant, in which he is an elder, aud of which he 
is a devoted member. He is the owner of a well- 
improved farm, provided with comfortable and 
handsome buildings. 



S. WILSON is a representative of an 
early family of Washington county. He 
is a grandson of Alexander and Betsey 
(McGibboney) Wilson, natives of eastern 
Pennsylvania, who came to Washington 
county and made a permanent settlement in Char- 
tiers township, where their son John was born. 

John Wilson was born in 1776, on the pioneer 
farm in Chartiers township, and in early manhood 




1376 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



was there married to Margaret Smith, who was 
horn in Ireland, and immigrated with her parents 
to America when but a child. After their marriage 
Mr. and Mrs. Wilson settled permanently in Som- 
erset township, Washington county. He was 
drafted and served in the war of 1812. In poli- 
tics he was a member of the Democratic party, 
and in religion he and his wife were members of 
the old Pigeon Creek Presbyterian Church. He 
died in 1850, followed ten years later by his wife, 
who had borne him children, as follows: James 
(living in Indiana), Elizabeth (Mrs. Jacob Yant, 
deceased in 1888, in Ohio) Hannah (wife of Emery 
Leyda, deceased in August, 1891, in Somerset 
township), Mary Jane (Mrs. John Messeuger, of 
Somerset township), Margaret (who died in 1890, 
in Allegheny, wife of Andrew Atkinson, of Pitts- 
burgh), John W. (living in Somerset township), 
Harvey (residing at Vanceville, Somerset township), 
It. S. (whose sketch follows), Sarah Ann (Mrs. 
Hiram Myer, of Somerset township), Isabelle (wife 
of William Milligau, of Gastonville, Penn.), Ra- 
chel (deceased in 1856), and Martha (wife of 
Samuel Wright, of Somerset township). 

R. S. Wilson was born June 26, 1834, in Somer- 
set township, Washington county, where he grew 
to manhood, receiving a district-school education. 
In 1858 he was united in marriage with Susan, 
daughter of Simon and Rebecca (Crawford) Wil- 
son, all of whom were born in Fallowheld town- 
ship, this county. Her father died in 1863, fol- 
lowed by the mother in 1867. After his marriage 
R. S. Wilson resided in Somerset township until 
1880, when he bought and moved upon 117 acres 
in Fallowfield township. He is a member of the 
Democratic party, and has served as road super- 
visor and also as a member of the school board. 
The children of Mr. and Mrs. Wilson are: John, 
who was married in 1890 to Lydia Weddle, and is 
now living in McKeesport, Allegheny Co., Penn.; 
Elmer Ellsworth, residing at Lock No. 4, who was 
married July 4, 1883, to Laura Province; Florence, 
wife of A. McGowan, of Lock No. 4, and Bertha, 
wife of West Piper, living at Charleroi, this county. 



OLIVER P. SHIELDS, a well-known mer 
\ chant and prosperous citizen of Florence, 
I Penn., is of Irish descent. His grandpar- 
ents were natives of the Emerald Isle, and 
John Shields (the grandfather) was a tavern- 
keeper along the Frankfort road in Hanover town- 
ship iu early days. When a young man he had 
married Ann Murphy, and their children were: 
Andrew, Robert. Hugh and AYilliam H. 

William H. Shields was born June 13, 1813, 
and learned the trade of a plasterer, also working 
at shoemaking. On April 3, 1839, he was married 
to Sarah Martha Holmes, who was born December 



23, 1816, daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth 
(Boyce) Holmes, of Smith township. The follow- 
ing children were born to their union: Oliver P., 
Carrie (Mrs. Robert McCullough, of Hanover town- 
ship), James (deceased in youth) and William 
(who died in Wellsville, Ohio, at the age of thirty- 
five years). The parents began their wedded life 
at Bulger Station, Smith township, this county, 
where he followed his trade. Iu 1850 he went to 
California during the "gold fever" excitement, 
where he remained a few years, and then returned 
to Bulger Station. In 1859 he came to a farm in 
Hanover township, and in 1863 moved to Florence. 
Penn. He died July 2, 1881, his wife surviving 
him until May 28, 1890, when she was laid by the 
side of her husband. In polities Mr. Shields was 
a Democrat, taking an active interest in the polit- 
ical issues of the day, and both he and his wife 
were members of the Presbyterian Church, iu 
which he was a trustee. 

Oliver P. Shields was born June 13, 1840, in 
Bulger, Washington Co., Penn. On May 15. 
1878, he was married to Mary McConnell, who 
was born March 30, 1850, a daughter of John and 
Sarah (Morrison) McConnell, of Hanover township. 
Five children have been born to the union of Oliver 
P. and Mary Shields, namely: Sally M.,Lee Mc. 
Walker F. , John O., and a daughter who died in 
infancy. Some time previous to his marriage 
Oliver P. Shields had been a clerk in the store of 
Robert Scott, of Florence, Penn., then entered the 
establishment of James Cleland, in the same town. 
In 1874 he began business for himself, and has 
since followed mercantile pursuits, each year in- 
creasing both stock and custom, until he now has 
an excellent general store, in the best business 
room of Florence. Politically, he may be called — 
to use a political term — a "wheel-horse" of the 
Democratic party, and has served as justice of the 
peace, and in several other offices. Both he and 
his wife are members of the Presbyterian Church, 
in which he has served in various capacities. 



rt LEXANDER W. GALBRAITH. Among 
1 |\ the prosperous agriculturists and leading 
h\ stock dealers of East Pike Run township, 
J -* this gentleman is a prominent figure. He 
is a son of William Galbraith, who was born 
in 1812, in Ireland, and came with his parents to 
America when about twelve years of age. He had 
one brother — Robert, who married a Miss Smith — 
and one sister, who was married to a Mr. Shaw and 
lived in Ohio. He also had a half-brother — 
Thomas McBeath — who married and lived in Ohio. 
William Galbraith learned and followed the boat- 
building business for many years, but has devoted 
the latter part of his life to farming. He has 
been twice married, first time to Nancy Fry, who 




^A^^^aM^^: 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1379 



bore him five children, as follows: (1) Robert, who 
was twice married, first to a Miss Redd and after- 
ward to a Miss Reynolds; by his first marriage he 
had children as follows: Isaac, who married Miss 
Nesbit, Charles and an infant (both deceased); by 
his second marriage he has five children. ('-! i 
Noah, married to a Miss Wilson, and now lives in 
Delaware county, Ohio. (3) William (now de- 
ceased). (4) Cornelia, wife of William Walker, a 
resident of Kentucky. (5) Emmeline, married 
Frank Williams, and died in October, 1880; they 
had five children: Maggie (married to W. Sphar), 
Aaron, Samuel, Nancy and George A. Linn, the 
last named having been born July 4, 1880. Mrs. 
Nancy (Fry) Galbraith died many years ago, and 
Mr. Galbraith afterward married Mary Hill, by 
whom he had the following children: Samuel, 
Elizabeth, John, Alexander W., Mary F. (wife of 
J. Mozier), Thomas M., Dr. Stephen A. B., Etta, 
and one that died in infancy; of whom Elizabeth 
and Dr. Stephen A. B. are deceased. Of this 
family Elizabeth married Albert Wickerham, and 
died in June, 1890; they had the following chil- 
dren: Jennie, Robert, Nancy, Mary F. (married 
to John Mozier, June 5, 1889, and has two chil- 
dren: John Thomas and Lucinda). Dr. Stephen 
A. B. graduated at Washington and Jefferson Col- 
lege, 1886. graduated at Washington and Jefferson 
Medical College, 1889, died December 3, 1889. 
William Galbraith is a representative agriculturist 
of Carroll township. Politically he is an active 
worker in the ranks of the Democratic party, and 
has served as township clerk, assessor and school 
director, as well as in various other positions of 
trust. Mrs. Galbraith is a member of the Presby- 
terian Church of Monougahela. 

The ancestry of Mrs. Mary (Hill) Galbraith can 
be traced back some five generations. Gideon 
Hill, maternal great-great-grandfather of Alex- 
ander W. Galbraith, came from England, and 
the great-grandfather, John Hill, located near 
where Lancaster, Penn., now stands, and where he 
lived till some time in 1774 or 1775, when he moved 
to west of the mountains, to Fort Pitt (now Pitts 
burgh). He was there offered in exchange for a 
black horse five acres, forming the point between 
the Monongahela and Allegheny rivers; but he 
concluded there was no money in property there- 
abouts, so moved to Somerset township, and ob- 
tained a patent for a tract of land, "Government 
reserving all gold and silver ore," but saying 
nothing about oil and gas. This patent is dated 
1778, and is now in the possession of our subject's 
uncle, Dr. S. E. Hill, of the same township. 
Greer Mcllvaine, grandfather of Judge Mcllvaine, 
owned the adjoining land, and these were the first 
settlers to locate in Somerset township. Dr. Hill 
has some relics of the past in the shape of an old 
conch shell or horn that used to be blown to scare 

G4 



wolves away; a clock that has been in the family 
five generations, is still going and keeping good 
time; also a blue dish about as old as the clock. 
Grandfather Hill was married February 15, 1815, 
to Elizabeth Woodrow, a native of near Shippens- 
burg, Penn., and a relative of Judge Black, of the 
same place, or near there; Mary (Hill) (mother of 
subject), born March 5, 1825, and Dr. S. E. Hill, 
of Smithville, are the only ones living of the family 
of nine children born to this union, who were as 
follows: Abner, John and Mary, Rachel Jane, 
Samuel, William, Martha, Stephen A. and Eliza- 
beth ; of these Martha and Elizabeth died in infancy. 
Dr. S. E. Hill married, December 10, 1869, Miss 
Sadie E. Long, of Pittsburgh, daughter of T. H. 
Long, and their family are: Pauline, Pearl and 
Zoe. Grandfather Hill and his father kept store 
when salt was $8 to $10 per bushel, and whisky 
was 35 cents per gallon; the salt was carried on 
pack saddles from east of the mountains. His 
father was one of the first members of Pigeon 
Creek Presbyterian Church in the days of Dr. 
McMillan, Dr. Brown and others, when preaching 
was conducted in tents, and the men were wont to 
go to church with their rifles for protection against 
the Indians. He and his sou (when the latter 
was a young man) were the contractors for the 
building of the old stone church, Mr. John Atkin 
son being the carpenter. The same stones used 
for this church are now under the brick one erected 
near the same place, and in which services are 
at present held by Rev. Gilson. Gideon Hill 
was thesecond man buried in the present cemetery 
where there are now hundreds sleeping their last 
sleep. In old papers Pigeon creek was spelled 
"Pidgeon " creek. 

Alexander W. Galbraith, the subject proper of 
this sketch, was born November 11, 1854, in Car- 
roll township, Washington Co., Penn. He re- 
ceived a liberal education at the common schools 
of the vicinity of his place of birth, assisting, in 
the meantime, in the various duties pertaining to 
the home farm. On February 6, 1884, he was 
united in marriage with Oella Bedall, a native of 
the county, born October 4, 1855, a daughter of 
John M. and Eliza J. (Jones) Bedall, both of 
whom were born in 1824, in Fallowfield township. 
Washington Co., PeDn., the father on August 7, 
the mother on November 1. They were married 
January 25, 1855, and two children were born to 
them, viz. : Clara J. (of whom mention is made 
farther on) and Oella (wife of Alexander W. Gal- 
braith). Mrs. Alexander W. Galbraith' s father 
was a lifelong farmer and stock raiser, and was 
very successful in business affairs. 

Joseph Bedall, grandfather of Oella Galbraith. 
was born in New Jersey November 10, 1777, and 
died May 16, 1838. He came to Washington 
county when a young man and his brothers known 



1380 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



to have come with him to this county were James 
'(who lived and died on the farm owned by J. 
>Keys Bedall (a grandson) in Fallowtield township), 
Levi (who owned the farm, now in possession of 
•J. P. Duvall, at the time of his death, where he 
spent most of his lifetime) and Ben j amain (who 
■was a resident of Washington county, and was 
never married). There were also two sisters, of 
whom no accurate account can be given. Joseph 
Bedall married Sarah McCutchen, who was born 
December 18, 1788, and died November 20, 1844, 
married May 2, 1816, and they settled on the farm 
Jjnown as the "Bedall Homestead;'' they had 
live children, viz.: (1) Mary Bedall, born Febru- 
ary 24, 1817, died April 24, 1860; (2) an infant, 
born June 28, 1818, died October 15, 1818; (3) 
Eliza Jane, born October 25, 1819, died January 

20, 1851, married Joseph Morton, and both are de- 
ceased; (4) Hester, born April 26, 1822, died March 

21, 1851; (5) John McCutchen, born August 7, 
1 S24, died November 24, 1880. Hugh McCutchen, 
the father of Sarah McCutchen Bedall, emigrated 
to this country at an early date from Ireland. He 
was a merchant by occupation, and part of his 

'book accounts are kept, in pounds, shillings and 
pence, one of the dates being June 12, 1781. He 
married Jane McCutchen, who was of Scotch de- 
scent, and they had six children, of whom we have 
record of five: (1) Mary, married to William 
Baker, of East Pike Run township, and their 
children were as follows: Cassandra and Jane (de- 
ceased), Ellen (wife of William Young; they re- 
aide in Kansas); (2) Sarah, married to Joseph 
Bedall; (3) Jane, never married; f-1) Samuel, 
married to Melinda Furnier (they had two children, 
James Shannon aud Sarah -Jane); (5) James, mar- 
ried to Jane Springer and lived near Tiffin, Ohio. 

Clara J. (Bedall) Chalfant, sister of Oella Gal- 
braith, was born February 8, 1859, and married 
October 12, 1882, to C. A. Chalfant, who was born 
March 22, 1854, a son of Dr. H. S. Chalfant, of 
East, Pike Run township. They have two children: 
Mary L., born February 10, 1886, and John 
Switzer, born May 5, 1891. They reside on the 
old Bedall homestead in Fallowtield township, 
where Mr. Chalfant is engaged in raising sheep, 
horses and cattle. He votes the Republican ticket, 
and takes an interest in all public matters; he and 
his wife are members of the Ebenezer M. E. 
Church. 

Jones Family. William Jones sailed from the 
port of Baltimore in 1769 (his son William being 
then six years old), and the vessel was never after- 
ward heard from. The son, William Jones, was 
born May 3, 1763, at Ellicott's Mills, Md., and 
died March 14, 1863. He was married April 23, 
1789, to Elizabeth McClung, who was born No- 
vember 24, 1769, and died January 27, 1829. 
About 1791 they emigrated from Maryland to 



Washington county, Penn., near Ginger Hill, six 
miles from Monongahela, where they settled on a 
farm on which they passed the remainder of their 
days, and which farm is still owned by a son, 
William McKendree Jones. They had twelve 
children, viz. : (1) John Jones, born in Maryland 
May 23, 1790, died July 16, 1875; was twice mar- 
ried, first time' to Rachel Frew; second time to 
Margaret Blaine, who was born October 12, 1805, 
and died October 29, 1890. By his first marriage 
he had the following children: William, married 
to Miss West; James, married to a Miss Cleaver: 
Elizabeth, married to David Ritchie; Joseph, mar- 
ried to a Miss Watkins; David, married to Miss 
Phillips; Samuel V. Cook (deceased), married to 
Miss Gregg; Mary, married to Manuel Stoody. 
By his second marriage Mr. Jones had two ehil- 
chen: Rachel and Jennie. (2) Elijah Jones, born 
in Maryland, November 20, 1791, died June 15, 
1855; was married to Mary Warren, and their 
children were William, married to a Miss Frye; 
Eliza Jane, married to John M. Bedall; Margaret, 
married to John S. Carson; James, married to a 
Miss Van Voorhis; Wesley, married in the West; 
Isaac, married to a Miss Mcllvaine; Noah, mar- 
ried to a Miss Frye. (3) Mary Jones, born No- 
vember 1, 1793, died August 15, 1856, married 
March 8, 1819, to Joseph Alexander, who was born 
April 1, 1795. (4) Ruth Jones, born September 
4, 1795, died January 22, 1892. (5) Delilah 
Jones, born February 14, 1797, died July 22, 
1882; married to James Mills, who was born in 
1801, died May 23, 1878, and their children were 
William (deceased); Andrew Bascom, died May 

14, 1888, married to Deering; Mary, married 

to a Mr. Dal by; Rebecca, married to Rev. Dr. 
Watkins; James, married; Charles S. ; Wilbur 
Fisk, married. (6) Jesse Jones, born December 
24, 1798, died February 11, 1888, married Eleanor 
Frew, and their children were Alexander (de- 
ceased); Jackson (married to Miss Black); Eliza- 
beth, married to Rev. Mr. Snyder; Charles, mar- 
ried; Carrie B. , married; Nancy, married to a Mr. 
Rankins (now deceased); Jesse, died June 21, 
1888; Ellen, married to Mr. McDonald, now de- 
ceased; others have been lost sight of in the West. 
(7) Samuel Jones, born August 25, 1800, acci- 
dentally killed June 14, 1867; was twice married, 
first time to Jane Fell, and for his second wife to 
Mary Thomas; the children by his first wife were 
William, married to a Miss Sheplar; S. Fell, mar- 
ried to a Miss Thomas; Mary, married to a Dr. 
Watkins, both deceased; and James, married to a 
Miss Finley. By the second marriage Mr. Jones 
had children as follows: Elizabeth, Melissa, Retta, 
Amanda, Homer, Luther, John aud Celia. (N) 
Rebecca Jones, born March 8, 1802. died July 3, 
1838; married Andrew Mills, and they had one 
child, James Mills, editor of the Pittsburgh Post, 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1381 



who married Elvira Alexander. (9) Rose Auu 
Jones, born May 4, 1804, died in September, 1870; 
married Francis Hull Williams, and their children 
were Elizabeth (married to Greer Mcllvaiue), El- 
mira, John W. , William, David, James and Har- 
vey. (10) Elizabeth Jones, born January 15, 
1800, died in September, 1830; married James 
McCauley, and their children were Ann Eliza and 
Mary. (11) Ann Jones, born April 22, 1808, died 
June 30, 1889; married John Hess, born in 1818, 
died in 1883, and their children were John, Eliza- 
beth, Westley, Alcinous, Amanda and Maggie. 
(12) William McKendree Jones, born October 29, 
1809, married Sarah Fulmer, who died in 1886; 
their children were Leonidas, Mary, Edward, 
James Mills, Margaret, Kate, Snyder, Albert, 
Florence and Rose. 

The children born to (2) Elijah and Mary (War- 
ren) Jones were as follows: (1) William, born in 
Fallowtield township, married Miss Eliza Jane 
Frv, and afterward moved to Brighton, Washing- 
ton Co. , Iowa, and still resides there; their chil- 
dren are as follows: Samuel W. , married to 
Rachel, daughter of Manuel Stoody.of this county; 
Mary, married to Mr. William Hide, of Washing- 
ton county, Iowa; Henry, married to Miss McCain; 
Irilla Jane, married; Amy, married to Mr. John- 
son; Josephine, married; Delia (now deceased), 
married to Mr. Hedge. (2) Eliza Jane, married 
to John McCutchen Bedall, as already mentioned. 
(3) Margaret, married to John S. Carson, both de- 
ceased (their children were eleven in number, as 
follows: Isaac, married to Miss Fry; Cornelius, 
married to Miss Beazell ; John C. (now deceased), 
married to Miss Raymond; Henry, married, 
to Miss Furnier; Robert F. , married to Miss 
Odvert; Mary Elizabeth, deceased; Van Curtis, 
deceased; Margaret M. , married to I. N. Carson; 
Caroline Jane (now deceased), married to J. W. 
Carson; Noah T. , married to Miss Sprowls; and 
Joseph, married to Miss Greenlee). (4) John 
Wesley, married to Jane Davison, in Logan county, 
Ohio, and now living near Linneus, Linn Co., Mo. ; 
they have nine children, viz.: Margaret J., mar- 
ried to George Hide, of Brighton, Iowa; Ara- 
belle, married to a Mr. Watterhouse, in Iowa; 
Ella, married to a Mr. Hossick; James, married 
. and living in Iowa; John C, living near Linneus, 
Mo.; Annie Neal, also living near Linneus, Mo., 
Helen, Hester and Isaac Willfred (unmarried and 
living at home). (5) James Jones (now deceased) 
married Miss Van Voorhis and had children. (6) 
Noah, married to Mary Frye, and their children are 
nine in number, as follows: John T. K., married to 
Miss Gamble; Florence O, married to Miss Brad- 
ley, in Missouri; Annie M. , married to Mr. Huff- 
man; Mortimore, married to Miss Huffman (now 
deceased); Eunice, married to Warren Gibson; 
and Frank, Bert, Noah King, Lilley, all four un- 



married. (7) Isaac Warren, married to Mary Agnes 
Mcllvaine; their children are as follows: Dora B. , 
married to William Morrow; William, unmarried; 
Isaac L., married to Miss Rettig; Mcllvaine, Harry 
j and Mary A., all three unmarried. 

Mr. and Mrs. Alexander W. Galbraith reside on 
I 222 acres of well-cultivated land in East Pike Run 
j township, upon which a pleasant dwelling was 
erected in 1888, and a frame barn 46x60 feet, 
completed in 1892. He is extensively engaged in 
raising sheep, horses and cattle. Politically he 
votes the Democratic ticket, and he takes an inter- 
est in public matters. He and his wife are mem- 
bers of the Ebenezer M. E. Church. They have 
one son, Wilbur, born August 12, 1891. 




[[ LEXANDER GAULT. The prominent and 
l\ representative family, of which this gentle- 
man was a member, are influential citizens 
of Nottingham township. Alexander Gault 
was born in 1797, on a farm in Washington 
county, Penn., where his youth was passed in the 
usual duties of farm life. On December 8, 1S'_',">, 
he was united in marriage with Miss Mary Wilson, 
who bore him five children, namely: James, Edith, 
Sarah (deceased), John W. (who enlisted in Com- 
pany K, P. V. Cavalry, and died in the service De- 
cember 7, 1862) and Alexander (deceased). The 
mother of these children died, and Mr. Gault was 
afterward married to Jane Flack, who was born in 
1807. The children of this marriage were as fol- 
lows: Robert, Mary J. and Addie, of whom Addie 
is the only one yet living. The father owned about 
one hundred and fifty acres of land. He died in 
1872, followed by the mother February 15, 1887. 
Of the children now living, James owns a part of 
the old place, and two unmarried daughters (Edith 
and Addie) each own and manage 100 acres of the 
old homestead. 



M. STRINGER. This enterprising citizen 
is a native of Fayette county, Penn., son of 
John aud Mary (Brown) Stringer. The 
father was a prominent farmer aud lifelong 
citizen of Fayette county, Penn., where he 
passed his entire life, aud died in 1874 at the age 
of sixty-seven years. 

G. M. Stringer was born in 1818 on the farm in 
Fayette county, Penn., and iu early manhood came 
to Washington county. He was a hard-working 
and economical young man, and was soon enabled 
to purchase a small tract of land in Carroll town- 
ship. He now owns seventy six acres of very fine 
land, upon which many improvements have been 
made. In early life he was united in marriage 
with Delilah Sprowls, who bore him the following 
children: Mary E., who died June 6, 1880, at 



1382 



WASHIXGTON < 'Ol STY. 



the age of thirty-one years: Louisa, deceased July 
25, 1867, aged twenty: William, residing in Ore- 
gon: Elmira, deceased; Eliza, deceased; and Mary, 
wife of John Williamston, living in Ohio. The 
mother of this family was called "over the river" 
June 18, 1876, when in her fifty -fourth year. Mr. 
Stringer is a member of the Republican party, and 
in religious faith is connected with the Lutheran 
Church. 




ILLIAM A. McCLAY, one of the repre- 
sentative citizens of Canton township, 
was born September it, 1846, on the farm 
now occupied by his brother, J. F. Mc- 

His grandfather, Samuel McClay, was a native 
of Ireland, and immigrating to America when a 
child of ten years, fiually settled in Chester county, 
Penn., and there married Sarah McClellan, a resi- 
dent of the same county, whose parents had also 
immigrated to America. Mr. and Mrs. McClay 
afterward removed from Chester to Washington 
county, where he bought and with the aid of his 
children began work upon a large tract of land. 
The children born to this union were: Margaret 
(Mrs. Robert Dinsmore), Elizabeth (Mrs. William 
Morrow), John, David, Robert, William and Sarah 
Jane. The entire family were active and zealous 
members of the Covenanter Church, and a majority 
of their descendants are true to the faith of their 
ancestors. In politics, Mr. McClay was active to 
the interests of the Whig party. After an event- 
ful aud useful life he died in 1838. his wife follow- 
ing him to the grave in 1842, leaving a comfort- 
able property to their heirs. 

David McClay, father of subject, was born June 
11, 1811, on the home farm in Canton township, 
this county, where his youth was passed amid the 
rudest of pioneer surroundings, his education con- 
sisting of hard lessons in the school of toil and 
privation, but, when thoroughly mastered, those 
lessons proved of greater value to the young pio- 
neer than does much of our '' cramming methods" 
benefit the modern student. By dint of close ob- 
servation and practical common sense, Mr. McClay 
soon surmounted these early obstacles to success, 
ami became a prosperous and well-informed man. 
On January 31, 1840, he married Margaret McEl- 
roy, and settled upon the farm now owned by his 
son, J. F., where the following children were born: 
James (deceased in infancy), James (who enlisted 
in the W. Va. Cavalry, and died February 25, 
1862, from disease contracted in the service), 
William A., Nannie (deceased), Samuel, David 
(deceased) and J. F. Mr. McClay was, in politics, 
an active Republican; in 1855 he united with the 
U. P. Church at West Middletown, then under the 
ministry of Isaac Everett, but, later he became a 



member of the church at Washington. He died 
April 5, 1887, leaving to his heirs about four hun- 
dred acres of land. 

William A. McClay, the oldest living son of David 
McClay, passed his earlier years on the home farm 
in Canton township, this county, receiving a lim- 
ited education, but as he possesses a retentive 
memory, and is an indefatigable reader, he has, 
notwithstanding the privations of youth, become 
one of the most intelligent men in his township. 
On May lit, 1869, Mr. McClay was married to An- 
nie, daughter of Jonathan Swisher, a prosperous 
farmer of Putnam county, 111., and the young 
couple immediately settled on the home place, 
where they have since resided. After the death of 
his father Mr. McClay and his three brothers di- 
vided the property among themselves without re- 
course to legal aid — an excellent example — and 
William still retains the portion allotted him. to 
which he has made many fine improvements. The 
house is of the " L" style, 36x32. The bam, which 
was erected with only the assistance of his children, 
is a commodious structure, and the well cultivated 
farm affords still another evidence of the thrift 
and enterprise of the owner. The union of Mr. 
and Mrs. McClay has been blessed with three chil- 
dren : Harry, William and Elmer. In politics Mr. 
McClay is the stanchest of Republicans, and for 
many years has filled the office of judge of elec 
tions in his township. The family are liberal sup- 
porters and earnest members of the Disciple Church 
at Washington, and are ever foremost in all enter 
prises pertaining to the welfare of the people. 



HARLES HOWARD TRUSSELL. a pros- 
perous, wide-awake farmer, is a representa- 
1) tive of one of the oldest and most prominent 
families of Franklin township, where he was 
born June 25, 1848. 

His grandfather, Charles Trussell, was of Vir- 
ginian birth, born near Harper's Ferry, where the 
family had resided many years. Before leaving 
his native State he was married to Sarah Fleming, 
a resident of the same place, and soon thereafter 
the young couple came to this county, making a 
settlement in the western part, having cut for 
themselves a home in the forest wilds, where they 
passed the remainder of their lives in unremitting, 
patient toil and hardship. They were consistent 
members of the Baptist Church. Their family 
were: Manson (deceased), Paden, Elizabeth (mar- 
ried to John Brownlee), Margaret (Mrs. John 
Henderson, of Claysville), Ann (deceased), Jane 
(married to Nelson Sprowls). William (in Kansas), 
John (in Dallas, Va. ) and Charles H. 

Charles H. Trussell, father of Charles Howard, 
was born October 15, 1822, in Marietta, Ohio, 
where he was reared to agricultural pursuits and 






ty CyA^UM 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1385 



two children : 
the latter of 
and Jefferson 
when he has 



educated in the schools of the neighborhood. On 
September 10, 1845, he was married to Lydia, 
daughter of Joshua Dickerson, of Franklin town- 
ship, and here spent the remainder of their lives, 
Mr. Trussell dying January 15, 1849. Mrs. Trus- 
sell now lives in Claysville. He was a lifelong, 
ardent Whig, and a man of strong but generous 
opinions. He was the father of 
Charles Howard and Joshua D., 
whom was educatedat Washington 
College, where he graduated, since 
been engaged in teaching, and he is now principal 
of the Claysville public schools; in 1880 he was 
wedded to Hattie Selby, of Buffalo township, who 
has borne him one child, Howard L. 

Charles Howard Trussell passed his life chiefly 
at the home of his grandfather, Joshua Dickerson, 
on the farm where he now lives. He was early in- 
ducted into the mysteries of agriculture, and has 
managed a farm with signal success ever since 
coming of age. On November 2, 1871, he was 
married to Sarah (daughter of John Finley, of 
East Finley township, who is now eighty-two 
years old), and soon thereafter they settled in their 
present home in Franklin township, the farm hav- 
ing been greatly improved by him since coming to 
it. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Trussell 
are: Clara Edna, Mary Matilda and Lewis B. 
The entire family are members of the Presbyterian 
Church at East Buffalo. In politics Mr. Trussell 
is an intelligent Republican (as is also his brother, 
Joshua D.), and has always taken an active part 
in educational developments in his section. 



J I ARRETT COVENTRY. Prominently identi- 
fied among the representative and substantial 
I farmers of Hanover township, stands the 
gentleman whose name opens this sketch. 
His ancestors were natives of Ireland, the 
laud which has given to America many of our best 
families, among whom is the name of Coventry. 

John Coventry was born in 1750, in County Don- 
egal, Ireland, where he learned the trade of a 
weaver, and when a young man was married to 
Martha Brown, who was born in 1754. Some 
years after their marriage this young couple sailed 
to America, and after landing and securing a tem- 
porary home, their household effects were moved 
thenceinachurn, the only child living being carried 
by the parents. John Coventry joined the Conti- 
nental army, taking an active part in the struggle 
for Independence, and undergoing the terrible suf- 
ferings which were the common lot of those heroic 
patriots. Long and difficult marches were made, 
their only food consisting of cold potatoes. After 
the war money was scarce, and the most common 
articles sold for fabulous prices. A little dress 
which was purchased for a son cost $60 in Con- 



tinental currency. In 178*2 John Coventry and 
family concluded to secure one of the cheap homes 
offered to the settlers in western Pennsylvania, and 
packing up their few earthly possessions, started 
on foot to make the long and tedious journey 
across the mountains. The hardships which they 
endured can scarcely be imagined, yet on they 
toiled, carrying the little son Robert, who was at 
that time about two years of age. At last they ar- 
rived in Hanover township, Washington Co., Penn., 
and, purchasing a small piece of land, erected their 
rude log cabin in the midst of the surrounding 
woods; there Mr. Coventry followed his trade of 
a weaver in connection with farming. This cabin 
was soon supplanted by one more substantial, 
which is yet standing. With true Irish enterprise 
and industry, John Coventry struggled on, and 
prosperity finally crowned his patient efforts. 
When the need of a permanent piece of ground 
for a schoolhouse became apparent, he gave the 
necessary amount of land to be used for ninety- 
nine years, and the building which was thereon 
erected has ever since been known as the "Cov- 
entry School." Iu politics he was a Democrat, 
adhering closely to the principles of his chosen 
party. He and his wife were members of the Se- 
ceder Church, which was nearly ten miles from 
their house, and they walked the entire distance. 
A church was afterward organized at Burgettstown, 
to which their membership was then transferred. 
John Coventry died February 5, 1845, in his 
ninety-fifth year, and was laid to rest by the side 
of the wife who had gone before him April 8, 1832. 
Both were buried in the U. P. cemetery at Bur- 
gettstown. The following children were born to 
this heroic couple: Robert (deceased in Hanover 
township), William, James (of whom a sketch fol- 
lows), John (a school teacher, who lived some time 
in Steubenville, Ohio, thence moving to New Phila- 
delphia, Ohio, where some of his descendants are 
yet living), Jane (deceased), Elizabeth (deceased 
wife of William Smiley) and Martha (deceased). 
James Coventry, son of John and Martha 
(Brown) Coventry, was born in Hanover township, 
Washington Co., Penn., on the farm where his 
father first located, there passing his early youth 
in attending the country schools. In 1824 he was 
united iu marriage with Letitia Coventry, whose 
parents were born in Ireland. James and Letitia 
Coventry were the parents of the following chil- 
dren: Nancy (deceased), Jarrett (whose name 
opens our sketch), Matilda (Mrs. Joseph Searight, 
of Allegheny county, Penn.), Mary G. (a maiden 
lady, of Allegheny county), and John S. (also of 
Allegheny county). James Coventry resided on 
the farm now owned by his son, Jarrett, for some 
time after his marriage, then located near Mur- 
docksville, in Allegheny county, Penn., where he 
died in 1851 at the age of fifty-seven years, soon 



1386 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



followed by his wife. He was a successful farmer, 
and a conscientious man. In politics he was a 
Democrat, and in religion a leading member of the 
Seceder Church, haviug been one of the founders 
of the Robinson U. P. Church. 

Jarrett Coventry, son of James and Letitia Cov- 
entry, was born in 1827, on the farm which is his 
present home. When a boy he attended the sub- 
scription schools, but being the eldest son waB de- 
prived of an opportunity to improve even the 
meager advantages offered in those primitive halls 
of learning. He was set to work at plowing when 
so small that he could scarcely reach the handles, 
and in early boyhood was doing a man's work. 
He lived with his parents on the old homestead 
until they died. On November 11, 1875, he was 
married to Catherine Malone, a daughter of Will- 
iam and Ruth (Wilson) Malone, and to this union 
three children have been born, namely: Annie L., 
John S. (who died in infancy), and James R. 
Since his marriage Mr. Coventry has made many 
improvements upon the old homestead, having 
erected a handsome new residence, barn, and other 
good buildings. His farm produces a paying 
quantity of oil. Mr. Coventry is a shrewd, far- 
sighted man, proceeding cautiously and therefore 
wisely in his business transactions, and has accu- 
mulated a good property. He is well and favor- 
ably known all over the township. Since 1890 he 
has lived in retirement from active business. Po- 
litically he is an active Democrat, and has held 
various township offices. Mr. and Mrs. Coventry 
are consistent members of the Robinson United 
Presbvterian Church. 



IfONATHAN EALY, one of the industrious 
. 1 1 and successful farmers of East Finley town- 
{( Ji ship, is a grandson of George Ealy. Henry 
Ealy, son of George, was born in 1807, in East 
Finley township, this county, and remained on the 
farm of his father until twenty-one years of age, 
when he began life for himself with 25 cents 
in his pocket, as capital with which to begin 
the world. He at once engaged in farm work, and 
by combining industry with energy, soon saved a 
small sum of money with which he bought a tract 
of land situated about two miles down the creek 
from East Finley postoffice, and having paid for 
this, purchased more. In 1830 he was married 
to Hannah Barney, of Greene county, Penn., who 
bore him the following children: Jeremiah (farm- 
ing in East Finley township), George (deceased), 
Philip (a successful farmer of Greene county, 
Penn.), Jonas (a farmer of East Finley township), 
and Delilah (deceased after marriage). At the 
time of his death Mr. Ealy owned over 1,200 acres 
of land, the result of his own industry and enter- 
prise. He died in 1882, having been preceded to 
the grave by his wife in 1873. 



Jonathan Ealy was born July 3, 1844, in East 
Finley township, Washington Co., Penn., where 
he received a common-school education, and passed 
his youth in farming with his father, studying a 
little with his mother in the evenings. On Sep- 
tember 12, 1869, he was married to Nancy Jane 
Sampson, who was born February 13, 1842, daugh- 
ter of David Sampson, of East Finley township, and 
to them were born seven children, five of whom died 
in infancy; the two still living are LibbensW. , 
born December 12, 1871, and Fanny E., born June 
16, 1874. Fanny has had charge of the household 
since the death of her mother, which occurred 
March 12, 1800, and Libbens assists on the farm. 

Soon after his marriage Mr. Ealy moved to the 
"old home farm," living there about fifteen years, 
when he came to his present home, about one mile 
farther down Gordon's fork of Wheeling creek, on 
which- place he has since resided. Mr. Ealy has 
been a very successful farmer, and in politics is a 
Democrat. He is a member of no church, but at- 
tends the Fairmount United Brethren Church. 
His wife was a member of the Cumberland Presby- 
terian Church. 



JfOSEFH M. CLARK, one of the enterprising 
I residents of Franklin township, was born 
J March 19, 1858, in Buffalo township, Wash- 
ington Co., Penn., a son of David Clark, an 
early resident of the township. Joseph M. 
Clark passed his early youth on his father's farm 
and in attending the schools of the neighborhood. 
On May 1 1, 1882, he was united in marriage with 
Caroline L., daughter of J. W. Patterson, and to 
this union one child has been born, Wiley Patter- 
sou Clark. Mr. Clark has always been a Repub- 
lican, and has taken an active interest in the success 
of his party. He has served as assistant assessor 
of the township several years, and discharged the 
duties of that office to the entire satisfaction of all 
parties interested. He and his wife are members 
of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Mr. Clark 
is yet a young man, and has before him the promise 
of a long and prosperous life. 



ILAS PRICE is a grandson of Joseph Price, 
a native of France, who emigrated to Amer- 
ica when a young man. After marriage he 
settled in Washington, Washington Co., 
Penn., and there remained until his death. 

William Price, son of Joseph, was born in Wash- 
ington, where he remained until his marriage with 
Elizabeth, daughter of John Horn, of Buffalo 
township, when he removed to a farm where he 
passed the remainder of a useful and successful 
life. He was the father of three children: Will- 
iam W., Ansodon and Silas. Mr. Price was a Re- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1387 



publican in politics, and in religion he was an 
earnest worker in the church. He died February 
17, 1863, and his remains rest in Washington 
cemetery. 

Silas Price was born November 24, 1858, in 
Canton township, Washington Co., Penn. On 
March 16, 1882, he married Nona, daughter of 
Benjamin Ramsey, of Franklin township. They 
have no children. Since he has resided on his 
present farm Mr. Price has made many improve- 
ments, and has erected a handsome dwelling, which 
displays evidence of excellent taste. In political 
opinion he is independent, and has been elected to 
many offices of trust in his township, the duties of 
which he has discharged in a manner satisfactory 
to all interested. He is at present road commis- 
sioner. 




ENJAMIN RAMSEY, a well-known citizen 
of Franklin township, was born August 2, 
1828, on the home place in Washington 
county. He improved every opportunity 
for self-culture, and secured a valuable fund of 
general knowledge. On March 15, 1854, he se- 
lected a bride in the person of Priscilla, daughter 
of Isaac and Nancy (Owens) Carter, whose chil- 
dren were as follows: Elizabeth, wife of John 
Sunderland; Jane, married to Simeon McClain; 
Mary, wife of John Jones; William; Lucinda, 
wife of Benjamin Carson; Margaret, married to 
Albert Kelsey, and Priscilla, wife of Benjamin 
Ramsey. The father was a stanch adherent of the 
Democratic party. 

Mr. and Mrs. Ramsey have passed their married 
life on the place where they are now living in 
Franklin township, and four children have blessed 
their union, namely: John W., married to Lydia 
Mosher; Nona, wife of Silas Price, of Canton 
township; Frank, and Herbert, who was married 
to Maude McClellan, of Allegheny county, Penn. 
They have one son, Harold H. Mr. Ramsey has 
been an ardent worker in the ranks of the Repub- 
lican party, and in religion is a member of the M. 
E. Church, toward which he gives a liberal sup- 
port. 



HrENRY S. RITCHEY, a well-known farmer 
I of Buffalo township, is a grandson of Will- 
I iam Ritchey, who was a native of Lancaster 
- 1 county, Peun. William Ritchey (father of 
Henry S.) was born in 1806 in Lancaster 
county, Penn., on his father's farm, and received 
his early education in the subscription schools of 
the period. In early manhood he moved to Ohio, 
settling near Columbus, but the change proved in- 
jurious to his health, and after remaining three 
years in Ohio he returned in 1830 to Pennsylvania, 



and located in Washington county. Mr. Ritchey 
began life as a farm laborer, afterward becoming 
a renter and cropper. He was married to Sarah, 
daughter of Henry Smith, whose family were 
among the earliest pioneers of Washington county. 
To the union of William and Sarah Ritchey were 
born four children: Henry S. , William, George 
(living in Morgan county, Ohio) and Mary (de- 
ceased). Mr. Ritchey achieved success by his own, 
industry, and at the time of his death, which oc- 
curred in 1870, he owned nearly 500 acres of land, 
in Hopewell and Buffalo townships. Mrs. Ritchey 
is living in Ohio, with her son George. 

Henry S. Ritchey was born in 1838 in Hopewelli 
township, Washington Co., Penn., and received a 
very good education, of which he has made practical 
use. He was united in marriage with Jennie,, 
daughter of John Reed, of Buffalo township, 
this county, and two children were born to their 
union: John and William, both of whom are living 
at home with their father; their mother died in 
1879. Mr. Ritchey's farm consists of 147 acres, 
upon which he has made many improvements. In 
politics he is a Republican, and has held various, 
township offices. 




j.ILLIAM B. BRIGGS, a well-known, 
I agriculturist of Amwell township, comes 
_/ of Irish descent, his grandfather, John 
— ' Briggs, having emigrated from Ireland 
in 1786, locating in Washington town- 
ship (now Washington borough), Washington Co., 
Penn., and here remained thirty years. His chil- 
dren were as follows: John B., Lazarus, Nathaniel,. 
Marguerite (Mrs. Greer), Polly (Mrs. Been),. 
Rachel (Mrs. Been), all now deceased except Mrs. 
Polly Been. Mr. Briggs had learned no trade, 
and therefore engaged in any employment he 
could secure. He died on a farm in Chartiers 
township, this county, which was owned by David 
Quail. 

Nathaniel Briggs, son of John, was born in 
Washington borough. Penn., and, being a child 
of poor parents, was compelled to begin the 
struggle with life in very early youth, but made 
his home with his parents until about twenty-one 
years of age. He was married to Marguerite Been, 
of Chartiers township, this county (near Allison's 
Coal Works), and to them were born the following 
children: James, residing in Washington, Penn.; 
William B. ; John, living in La Salle county, 111. ; 
Robert, residing in Claysville, Penn. ; Mrs. Anna 
Eliza Gibson (deceased); Alexander (deceased); 
Samuel (deceased); David and Isaac, residing near 
Washington, Penn. In politics Mr. Briggs was 
a Democrat; and in religious connection he was a 
member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He 
passed from life December 2, IT 



i:iss 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



William B. Briggs was born February 21, 1830, 
in Chartiers towaship. near Washington, this 
county, and received but three months' schooling 
during the winter time, in an old log schoolhouse, 
which was erected on a farm owned by Aaron 
Miller. He began to carve out his future at the 
juvenile age of ten years, first working by the 
month for Jacob Wolfe; he was then employed by 
Lewis Hawell five years, and afterward worked 
seven years for William Donelby; then returned 
home and worked the farm on shares. In 1850 he 
was married to Emily Haggerty, of Canton town- 
ship, this county, and they have had eight chil- 
dren, those who survived infancy being Alexander 
(residing in Ohio), Simeon W. , Mary Marguerite, 
Washington, John (deceased) and Newton. Mr. 
Briggs has a pleasant home and nice farm of 106 
acres in Amwell township, which he has secured 
by hard labor, having been the sole architect of his 
own fortune. In political opinion he is a Demo- 
crat. He and his family have been members of 
the Presbyterian Church for thirty years. 



JfOHN CROUCH is a worthy representative of 
one of the pioneer families of North Strabane 
I township. He is a great-grandson of John 
Crouch, a native of Maryland, who, in a very 
early day, came with a colony to what is now 
North Strabane township, Washington Co., Penn. 
He lived and died on his pioneer home, and was 
buried on the farm. His son John also passed his 
entire life on the home farm, and here ten children 
were born to him. Robert Crouch, the eldest son 
of John Crouch, was united in marriage with Anna 
Thomas (whose father, Edmond Thomas, was a 
soldier in the Revolutionary war), and she bore 
him three children: James L. (deceased at the age 
of fifty-eight years), Mary J. (wife of Harvey Mc- 
Vay. of Washington) and John. Mr. Crouch was 
an active member of the United Presbyterian 
Church. He died October 10, 188'), and his 
widow is yet living with her son John. She has 
also been connected with the Presbyterian Church 
for many years. 

John Crouch, son of Robert Crouch, was born 
August 19. 1833, on the old farm, and passed his 
youth at liome, attending the country schools of 
North Strabane township. On January 5, 1854, 
he was married to Isabella Bebout, who was born 
April 6, 1834, daughter of Peter Bebout. Mr. 
B^liout was a native of New Jersey, and coming to 
Washington county, Penn., was married to Isa- 
bella Cooper, a native of Ohio. The children born 
to this union were as follows: Susan (Mrs. William 
Bebout), Isabella (wife of John Crouch), Caroline 
(Mrs. Joseph V. Manes), David. Ira, Herman H., 
Mary J., Margaret, Joshua, Stephen and Martha 
J. , the last live of whom are deceased. At the 



age of eighteen years Mr. Bebout walked from 
New Jersey to Washington county, and settled in 
North Strabane township. He died in 1861, and 
his wife followed him to the grave March 6. 1888. 
They were members of the Presbyterian Church. 

Mr. and Mrs. John Crouch are the parents of 
the following children: Robert C. , born October 2, 
1859; Alphonso, born January 18, 1801 ; William 
H., born July 12, 1863; Laura B. (wife of Alex- 
ander Dice), born October 29, 1865; John B. , 
born June 6, 1868; Sadie B., born September 23, 
1872; Clarence A., born October 11, 1877; and 
Nannie M., born April 6, 1878. After marriage 
Mr. Crouch settled on the old homestead, where he 
has been engaged in general farming; he owns 100 
acres of land in an excellent state of cultivation, 
and has one good gas well. He is much interested 
in educational matters, and has served as school 
director nine years. He and his wife are both 
members of the old Pigeon Creek Presbyterian 
Church. 




LVIN M. SMITH. This gentleman, who is 
one of the leading progressive agricultur 
ists of South Strabane township, claims, by 
reason of his popularity and prominence as 
a worthy citizen, more than a passing no- 
tice in the pages of this work. 

He is a grandson of John Smith, a native of 
England, who when a young man immigrated to 
America, making a settlement in Pennsylvania, 
where he married and had two children — one son 
and one daughter — whom he reared to maturity. 
From the Keystone State he moved to Ohio, and 
there carried on a general store in Steubenville, 
in which town he died. He was a member of the 
Presbyterian Church, and in politics was a Demo- 
crat. 

Ezekiel Smith, father of the subject of these 
lines, was born in 1824, in the State of Pennsyl- 
vania, where he was educated and learned the 
trade of tailor, which he followed for some years. 
In 1845 he was married to Miss Mary, daughter of 
Joseph Miller, of South Strabane township, and 
the children born to this union were John, Alvin 
M. , Henry and William, the last two being de 
ceased. The father died in Steubenville, Ohio, 
in 1854, aged thirty years; the mother is still liv- 
ing and in good health. After his death the family 
came to South Strabane township, this county, and 
made their home with Joseph Miller, with whom 
the sons remained until they attained their ma- 
jority. 

Alvin M. Smith was born November 6, 1848, in 
Somerset township, Washington Co., Penn., his 
education, necessarily limited on account of the 
early death of his father, being obtained at the 
public schools of the district. Early in life he 




o4^cr^r7 &4v ^^w^/sjy 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1391 



commenced work as a common laborer, in South 
Strabane township, in which vocation hecontinued 
some ten years, at the end of which time he rented 
a farm for three years, in the same township, and 
then purchased the tract where he now resides, 
and where he has since been prosperously engaged 
in agricultural pursuits, a striking example of 
what may be accomplished by honest toil, unre- 
mitting perseverance, sound judgment and un- 
questioned integrity of purpose. On March 28, 
1878, Mr. Smith was married to Harriet, daughter 
of Adam Beck, of South Strabane township, and 
the children born to this union are Anna, Harry, 
Clementina J. , one that died in infancy, and John 
E. (deceased). Politically Mr. Smith is an inde- 
pendent Republican, and in religious faith he is a 
member of the United Presbyterian Church of 
Washington. He is a typical, representative self- 
made man, having risen by his own individual 
efforts from the bottom rung of the ladder, step 
by step, until he is now one of the most prosper- 
ous men of his township. On his farm was sunk 
the first well of the famous Smith pool fund, in the 
year 1886. 

JAMES A. STEWART is an honored repre- 
sentative of a family whose name is promi- 
nently identified with the early settlement of 
the county. The early ancestors of these 
pioneers were natives of Scotland, where John 
Stewart, grandfather of the present generation, 
was born and reared. He married a maiden from 
the " Emerald Isle," and soon afterward came to 
America. They pushed westward from the Atlan- 
tic coast in search of a cheap home, and reaching 
western Pennsylvania, they found the object of 
their quest. He located in Cross Creek township, 
of Washington county, and taking 500 acres of 
land in the eastern part of the township, erected a 
log cabin in the wilderness. Amid dangers and 
hardships John Stewart and his wife began their 
home, but with the advent of others the Indians 
retreated, finally crossing the Ohio river. The 
visits soon grew less frequent, and the develop- 
ment of the country became assured as people 
continued to come from the populated States. 
John Stewart was one of those hardy, industrious 
Scotchmen whose aim in life is to implant the 
principles of honor and industry into the lives of 
their children. To Mr. and Mrs. Stewart were 
born children as follows: John (father of sub- 
ject), James (who passed his entire life on the 
home farm), William (moved to Guernsey county, 
Ohio), Jane (Mrs. Everett, of Ohio), Hester (Mrs. 
John Thorn, who lived on Raccoon creek), Mary 
(Mrs. Joseph Soott, who moved to Coshocton 
county, Ohio), (all of whom are now de- 
ceased). Mr. Stewart died on the home farm in 



a ripe old age, after success had begun to crown 
his years of toil, having been preceded to the 
grave by his wife. 

John Stewart was born in 1788 in Cross Creek 
township, Washington Co., Penn., on the pioneer 
farm of his father, and passed his boyhood on the 
farm, and in attending the subscription schools. 
In 1818 he was married to Sally Paxton, a native 
of Maryland, whose parents moved to Washington 
county when she was a small child. To this union 
were born the following children: Mary (widow 
of Robert Liggett), James A. (subject), David M. 
(a farmer of Cross Creek township), Sarah J. (Mrs. 
James Smiley, of Cross Creek township), Eliza A. 
(wife of Wallace Richey, of Hopewell township), 
John, Nathaniel and Maria, the latter three de- 
ceased. Mr. Stewart located on the old home 
farm in Cross Creek township, and there passed 
his life. He was a man of unusually fine physique, 
standing over six feet two inches in his stocking 
feet, weighing 240 pounds. Sickness was foreign 
to his nature and a physician was never called to 
attend him until the illness preceding his death. 
Nature had also blessed him in an unusual manner 
by giving him an entire set of double teeth, not a 
single tooth having been in his head. He was 
capable of doing an immense amount of work, and 
always exercised his powers, being an energetic 
and successful farmer. Politically he was a Dem 
ocrat, but not a politician. He died in 1860, and 
in 1868 his widow was laid beside him. 

James A. Stewart was born March 15, 1821, in 
Cross Creek township, Washington Co., Penn.. 
where he received his early education in the sub 
scription schools. This was afterward improved 
by a course at Wotring's Academy. He then 
successfully followed the profession of a school 
teacher for thirteen years, when he began the 
study of medicine under Dr. Hamilton, of West 
Middletown, but was compelled to abandon it, 
owing to failing health. On July 13, 1852, he was 
united in marriage with Sarah C. Pogue, who was 
born May 15, 1825, daughter of David Pogue, and 
she bore him children as follows: David R., John, 
George, Annie, Mary and Lydia, all of whom are 
living at home. On account of the physical disa- 
bility of the father, the sons have charge of the 
farm, and being energetic and industrious young 
men, they have the respect and good wishes of the 
entire community. Mr. Stewart remaiued in Jef- 
ferson township seventeen years after his mar- 
riage, and in 1873 came to Independence town- 
ship and purchased the "Thomas White" farm, 
lying about two miles northeast of Independence, 
which is his present home. In politics he is a 
Democrat, and in religious connection both Mr. 
and Mrs. Stewart are members of the Bethel M. 
P. Church. 



1392 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Hi ENRY SAMPSON, an influential and pros- 
perous farmer of East Finley township, is 
a grandson of David Sampson, who was 
1 born about 1768 in England, where he fol- 
lowed farming several years, afterward im- 
migrating to America and locating near Balti- 
more, Md. He was married to Nancy Jane , 

who was born in 1771, and the following children 
were born to them: Thomas (deceased in Washing- 
ton county, Ohio), Laban (deceased in Vinton 
county, Ohio), Benjamin and Abraham (both de- 
ceased in East Finley township, this county), 
David (father of subject), William (residing in 
Washington county, Ohio), and a daughter (de- 
ceased in infancy, unnamed). After his marriage 
Mr. Sampson resided for some time in Maryland, 
where several of his children were born,' thence 
moving to Washington county, Penn., he located 
iu East Finley township, near the present post- 
office of England, and finally settled on the old 
home farm, which is situated about two miles from 
East Finley postoffice, where he died in 1834, hav- 
ing been preceded several years by his wife. 

David Sampson was born in June, 1808. in 
Maryland, and came with his parents on their long 
and tedious journey over the mountains to Wash- 
ington county, Penn. Their worldly property, 
with which to begin the struggle of life in the 
wilderness, was hauled in one cart by two horses 
driven tandem, the members of the family who 
could not ride following behind the load. They 
first located near England postoffice, and, having 
no property, the struggle for existence was a hard 
one. After some time David returned over the 
mountains with a hog-drover, and while in the 
East purchased a tract of unbroken land, erected 
a log cabin, and thither moved his parents, where 
they died in 1834. He was united in marriage 
with Fanny Sprowls, born in 1816, daughter of 
Arthur Sprowls, of East Finley township, this 
county, and the family consisted of the following 
children: Mary Ann (wife of James Sprowls), re- 
siding in West Finley township; Catherine, widow 
of Jackson Elliott, living in East Finley township; 
Nancy Jane (deceased); Arthur and James (both 
deceased in infancy); Henry (subject of present 
sketch); John, a farmer of Marshall county, W. 
Va. ; Phoebe, wife of William Archer, living in 
West Finley township, this county; Silas, residing 
in West Finley township; Libbens, living in Mar- 
shall county, W. Va. ; Elizabeth, wife of James 
Martin, of West Finley township, and an unnamed 
infant. Mr. Sampson passed the remainder of his 
life on the home farm, and became a successful 
business man. In politics he was a Democrat, and 
in religious connection a member of the M. E. 
Church. He died in 1878, having been preceded 
by his wife in 1874. 

Henry Sampson was born May 10, 1S43. in 



East Finley township, and passed his youth on 
the farm, receiving a limited education , although 
his inclinations led him to improve every possible 
opportunity. In 1883 he was united in marriage 
with Adeline Maria Parkinson, who was born 
March 30, 1852, daughter of John Parkinson, of 
Morris township, Greene Co., Penn. They have 
one child, Libbens, born May 31, 1884. Mr. 
Sampson is a prosperous and popular citizen, and 
in addition to his vocation of general farming was 
for eighteen years engaged in threshing, but has 
recently retired from that. He is a worker in the 
Democratic party. He is a member of the U. B. 
Church, and his wife of the C. P. Church at Old 
Concord. 




C. BUCHANAN, a well-known citizen of 
Hopewell township, was born in 1864, in 
Independence township, this county. He 
is a grandson of David, whose father was 
Samuel Buchanan. The latter came with 
his wife and son John from Lancaster county, 
Penn., to Independence township, this county, in 
1783, and on April 19, 1785, purchased 300 acres 
of land on " Worley's Run" of Joseph Worley, 
who returned to the East. After settling in Inde- 
pendence townshij), three sons were born to Mr. 
and Mrs. Samuel Buchanan, namely: William, 
Samuel and David, all of whom remained in Inde- 
pendence township. John took the tract of 225 
acres (adjoining the farms of Henry Levens and 
John and Philip Doddridge) and died upon 
this farm; Samuel died about 1804 on the old 
homestead; William settled in Zanesville, Ohio, 
where he died. David Buchanan settled on a part 
of the old homestead upon which he built a tannery 
in 1810, but on account of a fatal accident, by 
which a son was drowned in the vat, he gave up 
the business in 1817. His son, David, afterward 
inherited the old Buchanan farm, now occupied by 
John McAllister. 

R. C. Buchanan spent one year at Canonsburg 
Academy, also a year at Bethany College. He 
left school at the age of nineteen years, and com- 
menced farming in partnership with his brother, 
remaining in Independence township until 1887. 
In 1884 he was united in marriage with Miss Cora 
Denny, daughter of Walter Denny. The grand- 
father of Walter Denny was born in eastern 
Pennsylvania, and there married Esther Maxwell. 
In 1788 he located near Canonsburg, this county, 
where his children were reared, as follows: Cath- 
erine, Martha, Margaret, Esther, Eleanor, James, 
Robert and Walter. The father of this family 
died in 1802, and the mother was laid by his side 
in 1843. 

Robert Denny was born in 1785, in eastern 
Pennsylvania, being brought when a child to this 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1393 



county. In 1814 be was married to Lydia Mc- 
Mannis, who bore him children, as follows: Walter, 
Anne, Esther, James, Robert, Elizabeth, William 
and Catherine (twins) and Lydia. Of this family, 
Esther, James, Robert and Elizabeth are deceased. 

Walter Denny was born April 30, 1810, in South 
Strabane township, this county. In 1842 he was 
married to Mary, daughter of John Welch, of 
Chartiers township, and their children were Mary 
Jane, Elizabeth Ann, Margaret L., Sarah L., 
Sarah E., Robert M. , John W. and Laura (twins), 
Samuel T., Alice, AgDes, Cora and Martha. Mr. 
and Mrs. Walter Denny passed their first years of 
wedded life in South Strabane township, then 
went to Hopewell township, finally locating on the 
farm one mile and a half west of West Middle - 
town, where they are now living. 

To the union of R. C. and Cora (Denny) Bu- 
chanan children have been born as follows: Fannie, 
born in August, 1885; a son (deceased in infancy); 
Mary, born March 2, 1888; and Nellie, born in 
August, 1890. In 1887 R. C. Buchanan moved to 
his present home, situated two miles northeast of 
West Middletown. He devotes his principal at- 
tention to raising Spanish Merino sheep, also rais- 
ing horses and cultivating 131 acres of land. He 
votes the Democratic ticket, and has been inspect- 
or of elections three years. In religious faith he 
and his wife are members of the Lower Buffalo 
Presbyterian Church. 



f | AMES MARSHALL is a representative of one 
I of the oldest pioneer families of Washington 
ff V county. The first pioneer of the family 
^^ name was Hugh Marshall, who was born in 
the North of Ireland, where, in 1704, he was 
married to Rosanna Marshall, a native of the same 
county. Two children, Gilbert and Samuel, were 
born to them in their native land. In 1770 they 
emigrated to America, and after a voyage of nine 
weeks landed at Philadelphia, Penn., afterward 
moving to Washington county, and settling (about 
1778) a short distance northeast of the present 
city of Washington, where two other children were 
born: James and Margaret. They soon after- 
ward purchased a tract of 200 acres of land on 
Garbys fork of Wheeling creek, in East Finley 
township, between Gale and East Finley, and 
made a permanent home in the midst of the wilder- 
ness, surrounded by Indians, where their two 
youngest children, John and Hugh, were born. 
Mr. Marshall had learned the weaver's trade in 
Ireland, and continued to follow it in America. 
His land adjoined the property of Robert Carroll, 
whose brothers were killed by the Indians. Mr. 
Marshall was living in his log cabin at the time of 
that tragedy, but probably escaped the same fate 
by fleeing to the fort when the first signs of the 



presence of Indians were seen. Many times, be- 
fore and after this occurrence, Mr. Marshall and 
his family sought safety at the fort, which was 
situated near the present site of Prosperity, but 
they bravely endured the hardships and dangers, 
nobly doing their share in developing the re- 
sources of the wild country. Mr. Marshall died in 
1815, and in 1833 his widow followed him to the 
grave. 

Gilbert Marshall was born in Ireland about 1703, 
and coming to America with his parents grew to 
manhood surrounded by the privations and dangers 
incident to the lives of pioneers. In 1801 he was 
united in marriage with Martha Bell, who was born 
east of the mountains about 1768, daughter of 
Robert Bell, of Morris township, Washington 
county, and to this union the following children 
were born: Mary, Rosanna, Hugh, Jane (widow 
of Hamilton Carroll), Margaret, Robert, James, 
Martha (widow of Joseph D. Carroll), Elizabeth 
(wife of J. J. Hunter, of East Finley township). 
Of these Mary, Rosanna, Hugh, Margaret and 
Robert are deceased. After his marriage Mr. 
Marshall bought of his father a small piece of 
land, lying one mile southeast of East Finley 
postoffice. where he passed the remainder of his 
life, year by year continuing to add to his prop- 
erty. He possessed unusual vigor and was evi- 
dently especially fitted for the life of hardships 
and struggles that was his portion, but in which 
he was so successful. In politics he was a lifelong 
Democrat, and in religion a member of the U. P. 
Church. After a most useful life he passed away, 
in 1864, wearied with the weight of ninety nine 
years, having been preceded to the grave by his 
wife about the year 1857. 

James Marshall was born July 10, 1813, on the 
home farm in East Finley township, Washington 
county. His only opportunity for an early educa 
tion was limited to an irregular attendance at the 
subscription schools then in the vicinity, and his 
youth was passed upon the farm with his father. 
In 1844 he was married to Maria McCaslin, of 
Greene county, Penn., who bore him two children: 
Maxwell (deceased at the age of twelve years) and 
Angelina T. (living in Miami county, Kans.). This 
wife died in 1805, and in 1807 Mr. Marshall was 
married to Emery E. Guttery, of Morris township, 
who died February 21, 1877. In 1881 he mar- 
ried, for his third wife, Susan G. Potter, of East 
Finley township, who died October 20, 1891. 
After his first marriage Mr. Marshall lived on the 
farm of his father five years, and then resided near 
Prosperity, Morris township, where he remained 
some time; thence removed to Ritchie county, W. 
Va. , where he still owns a farm, returning in 1883 
to Washington county, Penn., and locating near 
Dog Wood Grove church, where he is now resid- 
ing. Notwithstanding his age Mr. Marshall is 



1394 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



yet an active man. In politics he is a Democrat, 
and in religion he is a member of the U. P. 
Church. 




ILLIAM CRUMRINE. The Crumrine 
family, an old one in this county, is of 
German origin. George L. Crumrine, 
from whom the family in Pennsylvania 
is directly descended, emigrated from the 
Palatinate of Germany to America in 1748, locat- 
ing in Maryland. A son, Abraham Crumrine, mar- 
ried there and reared a family of children, among 
whom was a sou John, the father of our subject. 

John Crumrine was born January 22, 1779, in 
what is now Carroll county, Md., near the present 
village of Melrose. Here he was married in 1803 
to Barbara Fohrman. In 1810, having heard of 
the fertile land in Washington county, Penn., he 
concluded to seek a home in the then " far West." 
In order to make preparation for the reception of 
his family, then consisting of his wife and four 
children, he went ahead, walking the whole dis- 
tance there, and purchased a piece of laud in West 
Bethlehem township, near the mouth of Daniel's 
Run, called in the patent " Snake Den." He 
walked the entire distance back to Maryland, and 
in 1811, accompanied by his family, he started on 
this difficult journey. All his earthly effects were 
loaded into a wagon, in which there was still found 
room for the family. The roads were indescribably 
bad, and the fatigue of the trip may be imagined. 
With all the vigor of robust youth, he devoted him- 
self to opening his land and supporting his family. 
Here twelve more children were born, making a 
family of sixteen. John Crumrine died January 
13, 1857, having been preceded by his wife in 1850. 
William Crumrine, the eighth child in the order 
of birth of John and Barbara Crumrine, was born 
March 15, 1817, in Washington county, Penn. He 
was reared to a full knowledge of all arduous farm 
life, receiving a limited education in the neighbor- 
ing " log-cabin school." He began life on his own 
account as a farmer, in which, with the exception 
of sixteen years, during which he conducted a mer- 
cantile business at Lindley's Mills, he has been 
engaged all his life. His farm near Dennis Sta- 
tion is excellently improved, and yields a handsome 
income. In 1845 Mr. Crumrine was married to 
Lydia, daughter of Thomas Ross, of Ruff's Creek, 
Greene Co., Penn. To them eleven children have 
been born: John Thomas, a minister at Cedarville, 
N. J.; Kennedy, a wholesale paper dealer, of Pitts- 
burgh; Ross, who died at the age of twenty -five 
years; Hannah Lucinda, wife of E. A. Conger, of 
Morris township; Mary E., a school teacher, at 
home; Frank, died in infancy; Homer, living at 
Deer Lick, Greene county; Stephen, died when 
young; M. D., who married Nannie McVay, autl 



assists in the farm work at home; and Timothy 
anil George, who died when young. In politics 
Mr. Crumrine is a Democrat. Both he and his 
wife are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian 
Church. 



ISAAC WHITEMAN. Among the native-born 
I agriculturists of West Finley township, none 
stands higher in the esteem and regard of the 
community than this gentleman. A represent- 
ative self-made man, he has from the bottom rung 
of the ladder of life worked upward to an honora- 
ble competency, a solid reputation and a good 
name. 

Mr. Whiteman is a son of Isaac Whiteman, who 
was born in 1764, in Washington county, Penn., 
and was reared on his father's farm to the noblest 
of all occupations— the cultivation of the soil. He 
was here married to Miss Eleanor Maughaman, 
also a native of the county, born March 7, 1766, 
and by her he had seven children, viz.: Andrew, 
Matthias, Esther, Susan, John, Isaac, and one that 
died in infancy. 

Isaac Whiteman, sou of Isaac and Eleanor 
(Maughaman) Whiteman, was born March 1, 1820, 
in Canton township, this county, in what was then 
called Razortowu, and very early in life commenced 
working on the farm. When he was but three 
years of age his father died, leaving a widowed 
mother with a large family to be provided for; and 
young Isaac had his share to do in providing food 
and clothing for them. As a consequence his edu- 
cational training — inside the school-room — was 
very limited and meager as compared with the 
practical lessons he received outside. Up to the 
age of forty years he worked as a farm laborer by 
the month, or on rented farms, the first money he 
earned being for mowing wheat for a neighbor, 
two days being occupied on the job, for which he 
received the munificent sum of P>\ cents. 

Our subject was married December 20, 1840, to 
Sarah Bedillion, of Washington county, Penn., 
and nine children were born to them, the follow- 
ing being their names and dates of birth: Chris 
tianB.,1841; Matthias J., July 27. 1843: Eleanor, 
August 15, 1845; Marv J., March 13, 1S48; Elsie 
M.. February 1. 1850: John B. , December 29, 
1852; Susanna, Mav 5, 1855: Sarah E., May 20, 
1859, and Phoebe B.. September 23, 1861, all" now 
living except Christian B. , who died voung, and 
Mary J., who died March 16, 1879. The mother 
departed this life November 8, 189(1, a consistent 
member of the Baptist Church of Enou. 

About 1850 Mr. Whiteman bought a farm in 
West Virginia, investing all his savings in it, and 
when the last dollar had been paid the title turned 
out to be totally worthless, so all his hard-earned 
substance of the best part of his life went like chaff 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1395 



before the wind. This disaster naturally much de- 
pressed him, but being possessed of a stout heart 
and great will power, he again set to work to re- 
trieve his lost fortune. This time he bought a farm 
in West Finley township, this county, the one he 
still owns, and here commenced to deal in live 
stock and wool, becoming known in course of time 
as one of the leading wool buyers in the county. 
By hard labor, strict economy, and indomitable 
perseverance Mr. Whiteman has, in spite of adver- 
sity, made life a success, being now the owner of 
300 acres of line farm land in West Finley town- 
ship, besides a house and lot in the thriving little 
town of Businessburgh, where he is now living re- 
tired from active work. He has been a lifelong 
member and one of the substantial supporters of 
the Baptist Church at Enon, in which he is a dea- 
con, and in politics he has always been a sterling 
Democrat. 



I Ml RS. MARY SPROWLS was born May 13, 
\/| 1828, daughter of Hugh and Ruth (En- 
*i I low) Montgomery, of East Finley town- 
I -* ship, and is the widow of Simeon Sprowls, 
a successful farmer of East Finley town- 
ship, Washington county. 

John Sprowls, a native of Ireland, was the first 
of his family to settle in America. In 1784 he 
was united in marriage, in Ireland, with Eliza 
Love (also a native of Erin), and the following 
children were there born to them: Arthur, Jane, 
Edward, John, Henry, James, Elizabeth and 
Nancy. In 1793 Mr. Sprowls brought his family 
to America, landing first at Philadelphia, thence 
going to Carlisle, Cumberland Co., Penn., and in 
about 1795 settling in West Pike Run township, 
Washington county. Soon afterward they went to 
Allen township, this county, but at length made a 
permanent home near the postofficeof Good Intent, 
in East Finley township, where the remainder of 
their lives was passed. Twochildren, William and 
Mary, were born in America. 

Simeon Sprowls was the son of James Sprowls, 
and grandson of the pioneer John Sprowls. He 
was born December 13, 1822, in East Finley town- 
ship, this county, and as his parents died when he 
was very young, leaving very little property, Simeon 
was obliged to begin life for himself at the age of 
twelve years. He worked some time without re- 
ceiving wages, and was then paid the modest sum 
of a "levy" per day. He continued to work at 
whatever would afford employment, and was one 
of the laborers hired to assist in building the brick 
residence of Mr. Thomas Stout, which was erected 
by Isaac Havely. At the age of sixteen he began 
to learn the carpenter's trade with Albert Squires, 
for whom he worked several years, afterward be- 
coming his partner. Mr. Squires finally moved to 



Ohio, and Mr. Sprowls continued the business. 
On February 24. 1848, he was united in marriage 
with Mary Montgomery, and the following chil- 
dren were born to them: Oliver M., born April 27, 
1850 (living in West Finley township, this county) ; 
Albert S., born July 3, 1852 (an attorney, living 
in Washington, Penn.); Alexander M. , born No- 
vember 14, 1854 (deceased in infancy); Harvey, 
born November 17, 1856 (residing in East Finley 
township); Ruth, born July 3, 1859 (living at 
home); George B., born March 5, 1862 (a hard 
ware merchant in Claysville, this county); Mar- 
garet J., bom October 17, 1864 (wife of Christian 
Plants, living in Claysville), and William M., born 
September 9, 1867 (residing at home I. 

After his marriage Mr. Sprowls located near 
Prosperity, on Ten- Mile creek, where he remained 
a short time, and in 1850 purchased, of Samuel 
McQuery, a farm in East Finley township, where 
he lived the rest of his life. He continued to farm 
and follow his trade until the spring of 1878, 
when he was suddenly taken ill, lingering only a 
short time, and on June 24, 1878, passed away. 
At the time of his death Mr. Sprowls had exten- 
sive laud possessions, having each year added to- 
his original property by hard labor and careful 
economy. Politically he was a Democrat. Since 
the death of her husband Mrs. Sprowls has resided 
on the home farm, which is managed under her di- 
rection. She is a member of the Windy Gap 
Cumberland Presbyterian Church. 



HENRY SMITH. Among the representa- 
tive citizens of Union township is this gen- 
tleman, who has been prominently identi- 
fied with the interests of the community 
since locating here. His grandfather, Rob- 
ert Smith, came from Maryland in 1782, and lo- 
cated on a farm in Allegheny county, Penn., where 
some of the family are yet living. An old shot- 
gun, which was brought across the ocean by his 
family, has been remodeled, and is yet in their 
possession. Robert Smith was married to Miss 
Jane Moore, a native of Maryland, who bore him 
the following named children: Daniel, Jennie, 
Mary A., Nancy, Robert, Betsey, Polly, Margaret, , 
William and John, all of whom lived to be over 
sixty-six years of age; Polly is the only one yet liv- 
ing. John Smith, son of Robert and Jane (Moore) 
Smith, was born on the farm in Allegheny county, 
Penn., where his life was devoted to tilling the 
soil. On March 17, 1842, he married Anna, 
daughter of Henry Croco, of Allegheny county, 
Penn. Eleven children were born to this mar- 
riage, all of whom yet enjoy robust health, namely: 
Elizabeth J. , Margaret J., Robert, Henry, Mary 
A., Lucinda, John O, Belle F. , Hettie R. . Ann 
M. and Adeline M. The father was a stanch sup- 



1396 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



porter of the Democratic party. He died March 
15, 1882, and was buried on the fortieth anniver- 
sary of his wedding day. 

Henry Smith, second son of John and Anna 
(Croco) Smith, was born in 1849, in Allegheny 
county, Peun., and passed his youth on the old 
place. On January 9, 1873, he was united in mar- 
riage with Amelia, daughter of Matthias Uhr, of 
Allegheny county, Penn. They began wedded 
life on their present farm in Union township, 
Washington Co. , Penn., where children have been 
born to them as follows: Edward TJ. (attending 
the Pittsburgh Academy), John H. , Lewis R., 
Howard I., and Frank M. The home place con- 
tains 157 acres of land, and in addition to general 
farming Mr. Smith manages an extensive dairy 
business. In political opinion he is a Democrat, 
and in religious faith a member and trustee of the 
Presbyterian Church at Fiuleyville. 



n, LEXANDER H. HUSTON is a son of Hugh 
I l\ Huston, who was born and reared in Char- 
Ip4\ tiers township, Washington Co., Penn., 
J -* where he attended the common schools. 
He learned the carpenter's trade, and fol- 
lowed it successfully for many years. He mar- 
ried Rachel Swan, a native of this county, who 
bore him three children: William, Alexander H. 
and Mattie. Of these, William was killed at the 
battle of Gettysburg, and Alexander H. is the 
only one now living. Hugh Huston was a Dem- 
ocrat in politics, and in religious connection a 
member of the Associate Reformed Church. 

Alexander H. Huston was born in 1840. in 
Chartiers township, Washington Co.,Peuu., where 
he was reared, educated and taught the carpenter's 
trade, at which he has since worked. In 1862 he 
enlisted, along with his brother William, in Com- 
pany D, Tenth Regiment, P. V. I., and was sent 
to the army of the Potomac; he was wounded in 
the battle of Gettysburg, where his brother was 
killed, as above stated. On October 6, 1871, he 
was united in marriage with Lizzie E., daughter 
of William Harsha, of Canonsburg, Penn., a son 
of Thomas Harsha, a native of Pennsylvania, who 
. in early manhood was married to Jane Hutchinson, 
a descendant of one of the old families of Wash- 
ington county. They resided in Chartiers town- 
ship and reared a large family. He was a member 
of the Presbyterian Church, and in politics a Dem- 
ocrat. His son, William Harsha, was born in 
Chartiers township, this county, and was there 
educated. When a young man he married Har- 
riet, daughter of William Fee. The young couple 
settled on the old place in Chartiers township, 
where Mr. Harsha died in 1860, leaving the fol 
lowing children: William G., Lizzie E. (wife of 
A. H. Huston), Sarah (Mrs. William Hutchinson), 



Thomas and George V. The father was a Demo- 
crat, and a member of the Presbyterian Church. 
To the union of Alexander H. and Lizzie E. 
(Harsha) Huston two daughters have been born, 
namely: Nettie J. and Harriet F. Mr. Huston, in 
politics, follows iu the footsteps of his forefathers, 
being a straight Democrat; in religion he is a 
member of the U. P. Church. 



B^ANIEL MADISON CARY, of Morris town- 
II ship, is a descendant of an old family of 
/ English descent. Abel Gary, the grand- 
father of Daniel Madison, was a native of 
New Jersey, born of English parentage. He mar 
ried in that State, later removiug with his family 
(a member of which was Daniel, born August 13, 
1779) to Greene county, Penn. Daniel Cary 
spent his boyhood days on his father's farm, re- 
ceiving but little schooling. In 1802 he married 
Mary Cooper, born July 18, 1783, a daughter of 
Zebulon Cooper, of Morris township. Shortly af- 
ter his marriage he removed to Chenango county, 
N. Y. , where he resided for a short time, soon af- 
terward coming to Greene county, Penn., where 
he died in 1868; his wife died in 1854. To them 
were born ten children : Zebulon, born November 
25, 1803; Abel, born October 8, 1805; Jerusha, 
born August 3, 1807; Mary, born July 15, 1809; 
Elizabeth, born December 28, 1812; Susanna, born 
November 13, 1814; Julian, born February 18, 
1817; Sylvester, born May 6, 1819; John, born 
March 23, 1821; and Daniel Madisou. With the 
exception of John, who died when young, the 
whole family lived to maturity. 

Daniel Madison Cary was born August 5, 1823, 
and was trained to farm life. He received but a 
meager education, his schooling consisting of about 
four weeks' annual attendance at a subscription 
school. In 1844 he married Mary, a daughter of 
Jacob Huss, an early pioneer of Fairfield county, 
Ohio. After his marriage Mr. Cary lived for a 
while with his father in Greene county, then pur- 
chased land near Rogersville, Centre township, 
same county, living there ten years, when he pur- 
chased his present farm, where he has since made 
his home. To the union of Mr. and Mrs. Cary 
were born children as follows: William Abel, born 
August 23, 1845, married Elizabeth J. Bane, of 
Strabane township, and now resides in Andrew 
county, Mo. ; Harriet E., born May r 17, 1848, mar- 
ried to Stephen Reeves, of Amwell township; Mary 
J., born December 22, 1850, married Simeon Mar- 
tin, of Andrew county, Mo., where they now reside; 
Charles M., born May 22, 1854, died December 8, 
1869; Elizabeth Ann, born October 6, 1857, makes 
her home with her parents; Sarah M., born August 
25. I860, married Axtal Day, of Chartiers town- 
ship; Florence A., born May 30, 1867, married to 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1397 



Washington Breese, of Amwell township. Mr. 
Cary is one of the influential and successful men 
of Morris towuship. He is a Democrat in politics, 
and both he and his wife attend the Amity M. E. 
Church, of which she is a member. 



DANIEL McPHERSON was, in his lifetime, 
a worthy representative of an honored race. 
He was a grandson of John McPherson, a 
native of Ireland, where he passed his en- 
tire life. He died at an advanced age, and left a 
family of children, one of whom was his namesake, 
John. 

John McPherson was born iu Ireland, and at 
the age of twenty years immigrated to America, 
settling in Lancaster county, Penn. He was 
united in marriage with Ann Logan, and their 
children were William, James, John, Daniel, Ann 
and Mary, all now deceased with the exception of 
Ann and John. 

Daniel McPherson was born September 5, 1817, 
in Lancaster county, Penn., and coming with his 
parents to Washington county, same State, located 
in Buffalo township, near Atchison, where he grew 
to manhood, his time being employed in farm du- 
ties and in attending the common schools. On 
February 2, 1842, he was married to Nancy Noble, 
who was born July 19, 1823, a daughter of Will- 
iam and Rachel (Spencer) Noble, and they had the 
following family of children: Samuel (deceased at 
the age of thirty-five years), William (of whom 
mention is made below), Daniel (also mentioned in 
this sketch), Rachel, James, Florence, Sadie, Hen- 
rietta, Mary (Mrs. John Sights, of Morristown, 
Penn.), and John. Of these children those now 
living are William, Daniel and Mary. 

Mr. McPherson lived on several different places 
in Donegal township during the earlier years of 
his married life, and in 1850 purchased the "Kerns i 
Farm," situated in the northern part of Donegal ! 
towuship, where he passed the remainder of his ' 
life. For twenty-five years prior to his death he 
was unable to engage in active labor, and the prin- 
cipal work of the farm was done by the two sous, 
William and Daniel. Mr. McPherson was noted 
for his generosity of heart and was one of the pil- 
lars of the U. B. Church, contributing liberally to 
its support. Politically, he was a Democrat. He 
died in 1891, his loss being deeply felt by the en- 
tire community, for such men are not easily 
replaced. His widow is living on a comfortable 
home farm. 

William McPherson, the son of Daniel and Nancy 
(Noble) McPherson, was born on July 7, 1849, on 
the old home farm in Donegal township, where his 
boyhood was passed. On March 8, 1875, he was 
married to Sarah E. Mealey, who was born August 
2, 1840, a daughter of George and Elizabeth (Fiu- 



ley) Mealey, and thay have had one son, John 
Burton, born February 7. 1876. After his mar- 
riage Mr. McPherson located near the home of his 
father, about two and a half miles southwest of 
Atchison, this county, where he has erected a 
handsome dwelling. Mr. McPherson assisted 
largely in the success of his father, by years of 
energetic and patient toil, and the home he now 
enjoys is his deserved reward. In political life, he 
is an active member of the Democratic party, and 
has filled several towuship offices with credit. 

Daniel McPherson, a brother of William, and 
son of the elder Daniel McPherson, was born April 
11, 1854. He received a common-school education 
and passed his earlier years at home. On Febru- 
ary 15, 1881, he was united in marriage with Mar- 
tha Ellen Miller, who was born February 6, 1859, 
daughter of Christopher and Elizabeth Miller, and 
they have one daughter, Lizzie, born March 22, 
1886. Mr. McPherson settled on a part of the 
home farm, upon which he has built a comfortable 
dwelling. The son inherits the progressive traits 
of his father's character, combined with habits of 
industry, which are a guarantee of future success. 
He is a Democrat in political preference, and in 
religious faith is a member of the Disciple Church 
at Dutch Fork. 




k\ILLIAM L. DUNN, the leading and pop- 
]j nlar shoe merchant of Canonsburg, was 
born in 1853, at Duncan Falls, Muskin- 
gum Co., Ohio. His grandfather, James 
Dunn, was born and reared in Ireland, and 
coming to America first settled in eastern Pennsyl- 
vania, where he was married to Miss Andrews, a 
nutive of that State. The couple soon moved to 
Buffalo township, Washington Co., Penn., and he 
followed agricultural pursuits. He was a Demo- 
crat, and in religion a member of the Seceder 
Church. Four children were born to this mar- 
riage, namely: Samuel, George, Rebecca (Mrs. 
Robert Beish) aud Isabelle (Mrs. Ritchie). 

George Dunn was born in 1826, in Buffalo town- 
ship, Washington Co., Penn., where his early edu- 
cation was received. He left home at an early age, 
and settled in Muskingum county, Ohio. When a 
young man he was married to Mary J., daughter 
of Philip Bedillion, of Washington county, Penn. 
They resided in Ohio several years, and in 1845 
came to Mount Pleasant township, this county, 
finally settling in Chartiers township. He was an 
active worker in the Democratic party. In re- 
ligious faith he was first a Seceder, then a member 
of the U. P. Church; he died June 28, 1890, leav- 
ing the following children: William L., Nathaniel, 
Mary J. (wife of D. Q. Crawford), Louisa and 
George. 

William L. Dunn remained on the home place 



1398 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



during his boyhood, and attended school at Jeffer- 
son Academy. When eighteen years of age he en- 
tered the employ of A. T. Hoft, remaining there 
one year. In 1873 he entered into partnership 
with Lewis L. Huston, in the retail shoe business, 
which they conducted two years. After selling out, 
Mr. Dunn worked two years for the purchaser; 
then worked three years for A. C. McNary, and in 
18S3 opened his present establishment in Canons - 
burg. On September 1, 1874, he was united in 
marriage with Lizzie H.. daughter of John E. 
Black, of Canonsburg. Their union has been 
blessed with the following children: Charles, 
Alice, William, Mary and Elsie. Of these children 
Alice and William are yet living. Mr. Dunn began 
business with but little capital, and has been the 
architect of his own fortune. He and his family 
are members of the Central Presbyterian Church, 
and in politics he is actively identified with the 
Democratic party. 



HARLES SCHMIDT, than whom there has 

not been a more enterprising and respected 

citizen in South Strabane township, was a 

native of Germany, born in Wurtemberg, 

April 29, 1820. 

His father, Frederick Schmidt, was of the same 
place, where he married, and reared a large family 
of children, of whom the subject of this sketch 
was the second in order of birth. Charles Schmidt 
remained under the parental roof, receiving his 
education at the school of the neighborhood, until 
he was twenty years of age, when he was drafted 
into the German army, in which he served nine 
years, a portion of the time in the corps of infantry 
sharpshooters, he being then a corporal. He was 
tailor of his company for a time, and then was ap- 
pointed shoemaker, a trade he had learned of his 
rather, and having made some improvement in the 
arraugeruent of the knapsack, he was promoted to 
general master of all saddlers in his regiment, a po- 
sition of honor and profit. On leaving the army in 
1849,Mr. Schmidt emigrated to America, landing at 
New York, in which city he spent a short time, 
then proceeded to Philadelphia, and from there to 
Baltimore, where he remained eight years. Here 
he attended school in order to make himself con- 
versant with the English language, and was en- 
gaged iu the business of maker and titter of fine 
shoes; iu which he was eminently successful. In 
1858 he went to Pittsburgh, where for two years 
he worked at his trade, shoemaking, and then 
came to Washington, this county, remaining in the 
city two years, at the end of which time he pur- 
chased the farm property in South Strabane town- 
ship, which by assiduous labor he improved from 
a wild state to its present fertile condition. Here 
he successfully carried on farming and the culti- 



vation of the grape, having an extensive vineyard, 
and, in connection, the largest wine cellar in Wash 
ington county, stored with choice native wines of 
his own manufacture. 

On December 3, 1850, Mr. Schmidt was married 
to Wilhelmina Dittis, of Baltimore, Md. , daughter 
of John and Margaret Dittis, and to this union have 
been born the following named children: Charles, 
Caroline (Mrs. George Becker), Francis and Mary 
(Mrs. John Becker). Mr. Schmidt was called from 
earth February 14, 1892, and his business and farm 
are now being conducted by his son Francis. He 
had been a Democrat ever since receiving his fran- 
chise, and was an active worker in his party. He 
was a justice of the peace for ten years, and served 
as school director for several terms. 



IfOHN S. LIGGETT was born August 25, 
t I 1849, on the home farm in Independence 
(( J I township. He is descended from one of the 
^^ earliest and most prominent families of pio- 
neer times in Washington county, whose ances- 
tors were born in Scotland. 

Two brothers of the Liggett family left their 
Highland home and crossed the ocean to America. 
Landing at Baltimore, Md., they there remained but 
B short time and then pushed westward, finally lo- 
cating in Washington county, Penn. One of 
these brothers, Thomas Liggett, was married to 
Parraelia Dempster, a resident of Washington 
county, and passed his life in Independence town- 
ship. He was a man of stalwart frame, six feet 
tall, well proportioned in every way, and possess- 
ing great courage and powers of endurance. He 
was noted for his positive character and sturdy ad- 
herence to his word, which principles were im- 
planted on the minds and were evident in the lives 
of all his children, whose names were Joshua (a 
farmer of Tuscarawas county, Ohio), Elizabeth 
(deceased in Iowa), James (deceased in Coshocton 
county, Ohio), Harriet (widow of Labau Heading- 
ton), Robert (of whom special mention is made 
further on), Mary Ann (deceased in Illinois), 
Sarah (widow of John Hemphill), William (sketch 
of whom appears elsewhere), Thomas (a farmer in 
Hopewell township), David A. (a merchant of In- 
dependence, Penn.), Anderson (living iu Hot 
Springs, Ark.). Mr. Liggett died January 29, 
1861, Mrs. Liggett September 17, 1882. 

Robert Liggett was born February 25, 1815, in 
Independence township, Washington county, and 
remained on the home farm until some years after 
attaining his majority. His education was re- 
stricted to the advantages found in the pioneer 
log schoolhouse, with its split-log benches and 
desks supported by pegs driven in the wall. The 
huge fireplace sent out so tierce a heat that " the 
children's hot faces were streaming, the while they 




i^f^f: 



X 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1401 



were freezing their backs." Young Robert walked 
a long distance through the woods to glean knowl- 
edge from these schools for a few weeks during the 
winter season. They were maintained by popular 
subscription, while the teacher "boarded round" 
among the parents, whose children graduated after 
having fathomed the hidden mysteries of "tare and 
tret" and the " single rule of three.'' Amid such 
surroundings Robert Liggett received his educa- 
tion and grew to manhood. In 1843 he was 
united in marriage with Mary M. Stewart, a native 
of Washington county, and the offspriug of their 
union were as follows: Thomas Madison, Sarah 
A. (Mrs. J. J. Cairns, of Eldersville, Penn.), and 
John S. Mr. Liggett began wedded life with $500 
and an old horse as capital stock. He lived on 
his father's farm for a short time, then came to 
the place where the remainder of his life was 
passed, which is situated one mile east of Inde- 
pendence, in Independence township. Upon this 
farm he erected one of the finest residences in 
the township, there following agricultural pur- 
suits, and by industry combined with economical 
business dealings, eventually became the owner 
of a vast estate. Mr. Liggett never took part in 
any speculations, but devoted his entire time to 
energetic toil and careful management of his prop- 
erty, achieving success by slow but, steady upward 
steps. Mr. Liggett was quiet and unassuming in 
public, with a reserved and dignified manner. 
His integrity was unimpeachable; firm and un- 
swerving in opinions, he never lowered his stand- 
ard of right to any man. Although, as previously 
stated, his literary advantages were necessarily 
limited, yet he succeeded, by dint of close applica- 
tion and keen observation, in securing a thorough 
practical knowledge of current topics and business 
matters. His example is most worthy of emula- 
tion, and may well encourage the young men who 
read these lines to persevere in every honest effort ; 
for true success comes only to those who toil and 
wait patiently for the harvest, which though long 
delayed, is ever sure — as we sow so shall we reap 
in due season, but the harvest will be according to 
the seeds planted. In politics Robert Liggett was 
a Democrat. He died September 4, 1886, and was 
laid to rest in West Middletown cemetery; on De- 
cember 3, 1890, his body was removed to the beau 
tiful new cemetery at Independence, then laid out 
on a portion of his farm. He left an estate worth 
over $50,000, the result of his own toil and busi- 
ness sagacity. Since his demise, the widow has 
resided on the home farm with a son. 

Thomas Madison Liggett (the elder son of Rob- 
ert and Mary M. (Stewart) Liggett) was born Jan- 
uary 25, 1845, in Independence township, this 
county. He passed his boyhood and youth on the 
home place, and October 17, 1878, was united in 
marriage with Letitia Griffith, who was born on 



October 22, 1852, daughter of Isaac and Elizabeth 
(Esler) Griffith, of Mt. Pleasant township, this 
county. They have had five children: Montee 
M. , Dora (deceased at the age of four years), Rob- 
ert, Olive L. and Hattie May. Mr. and Mrs. Lig- 
gett have resided since their marriage on what is 
known as the James Beall farm, lying half a mile 
east of Independence, in this county. He inherits 
the spirit of progress and industry, so characteris- 
tic of his father's life, and is a prominent- agricult- 
urist, devoting special attention to raising first- 
class stock, handling and fattening stock for the 
market. He votes the Democratic ticket, but gives 
his whole time to the interests of his business, 
which is yielding a larger income with every year. 
He and his wife are members of the Presbyterian 
Church. He is a charter member of the Independ- 
ence Cemetery Company, serving as secretary of 
that company since it first started. His wife, 
Letitia, is truly a helpmate, completely interest- 
ing herself in her department, and in every opera- 
tion tending to the advancment of her family's 
interest. 

John S. Liggett (the younger son of Robert and 
Mary M. (Stewart) Liggett) received a common- 
school education, and then began dealing in stock 
and general farming, soon managing an extensive 
business. By treating his customers in a fair and 
honest manner, he has succeeded in winning the 
confidence and patronage of many. On January 
23, 1879, he married Harriet A. Griffith, who was 
born March 20, 1856, daughter of Isaac and Eliza- 
beth (Esler) Griffith, of Mt. Pleasant township, 
this county. Two daughters were born to this 
union, viz. : Mary A., born January 8. 1885, died of 
pneumonia May 26, 1885, and Alice B., born July 
22, 1889. Mr. and Mrs. Liggett have resided on 
the home farm since their marriage, and the place 
gives evidence of the cultured taste of the present 
owners. Mr. Liggett possesses a rare judgment 
and practical knowledge of live stock, which has 
contributed largely to his success in business. 
Politically he is a Democrat, and has filled various 
offices of trust in his township. In religion he and 
his wife are both members of the Presbyterian 
Church, of which he is a trustee. 



J 



[OHN SCOTT DANLEY. Among the old 
families of East Finley township none hold 
a more prominent place than the Danleys. 
George Danley, grandfather of John S., was 
a native of the North of Ireland, where he 
carried on farming, as did his father before him. 
Immigrating to America, he made his new home 
in Washington county, Penn., near West Middle- 
town, where his wife (also a native of Ireland) 
bore him three children: John, Mattie and S. S. 
About 1819 the parents died, and the children, 



y 



1402 



WA SHIN G TON CO UN T Y. 



who were yet young, passed iuto the care of others, 
S. S. being given in charge of an uncle, John 
Scott; Mattie, who was also reared by relatives, 
is now a resident of Cambridge, Ohio, and is the 
only survivor of the family. 

S. S. Danley, father of our subject, was born 
April 29, 1818, in Independence township, Wash- 
ington Co., Penn., and, aB already stated, was 
reared by his uncle, John Scott, a resident of East 
Fiuley township, his education being received at 
the subscription schools of the period, somewhat 
limited in their facilities as compared with more 
modern schools; but Mr. Danley was a close stu- 
dent and a great reader, and lost no opportunity 
of improving his education. He lived with his 
relatives until his marriage, January 2. 1838, with 
Ruth Enlow, who was born June 20, 1817, a 
daughter of Henry Enlow, of East Finley town- 
ship, whose ancestors were New Englanders and 
early settlers in Washington county. To this 
union were born the following named children: 
Elizabeth E., born October 16, 1839, married to 
John Elliott, and living in Morris township; Mar- 
garet J., born February 1 5, 1841, married to George 
England, and resides in Washington county, Iowa; 
Henry P., born May 18, L842, a farmer in East 
Finlev township; John S. ; George H., born May 
24, 1847, died January 10, 1859. After his mar- 
riage S. S. Danley located on the property left him 
by his uncle, situated near the headwaters of the 
Templeton fork of Wheeling creek, and a short 
distance from Bartholdi post-office, in East Finley 
township, and here he passed the remainder of his 
busy life, improving the property and adding to 
his possessions, which at the time of his death 
were extensive. He died April 1, 1891, his wife 
August 14, 1880. They were active, influential 
citizens, and highly respected members of the Dog 
Wood Grove U. P. Church. Politically Mr. Dan- 
ley was first a Whig and afterward, on the for- 
mation of the party, a stanch Republican. 

John Scott Danley was born September 12, 
L845, in East Finley township, Washington Co., 
Penn., his education being received at the common 
schools of the district. In 1869 he was married to 
.Martha L. McCleary, who was born August 16, 
1 X r>( >, a daughter of William McCleary, of East 
Finley township. This union has been blessed 
with the following children: Osco Wayne, born 
November 5, 1870, died August 1, 1880; George 
W., born May 28, 1872; James L., born February 
23, 1874; Ruth E., born July 21. 1877; Idesta 
and Roberta (twins), born August 5, 1880, all at 
home, and Laura, born May 20, 1883, deceased in 
infancy. The mother of these children died June 
20, 1883, ami April 29, 18S6, Mr. Danley married 
Mrs. Jennie M. (Gunn) Nelly, a native of East 
Fiuley township, born September 10, 1858, a | 
daughter of Moses Gunn, and widow of Moses 



Nelly. After his first marriage Mr. Danley re- 
sided with his parents until their death, since 
when he has continued on the old home farm. He 
is one of the prosperous and influential citizens of 
his township, and in general knowledge is consid- 
erably above the average farmer. He and his re- 
fined and intelligent wife are members of the Dog 
Wood Grove U. P. Church, and in politics he is a 
prominent and active Republican. 



P, A. THROCKMORTON, a well-to-do farmer 
' of Morris township, comes of good English 
stock. His grandfather, Daniel Throck- 
morton, a native of New Jersey, of English 
parentage, removed to western Pennsyl- 
vania about 1800, locating in Greene county, 
where he devoted himself to farming. Here he 
married and reared five children. After the death 
of his first wife he married a widow, Mrs. Duval, 
who died in 1846, followed by her husband in 1848. 

Daniel Throckmorton, the third son of Daniel, 
was born in 1802, received a limited education and 
spent his boyhood days on his father's farm. In 
1837 he married Hannah, a daughter of Philip 
Axtel, of Morris township, and to them three chil- 
dren were born: P. A.; Oliver, born January 27, 
1842, is unmarried and resides with his brother, 
P. A. Throckmorton, and Judson, born March 1, 
1844, died November 1, 1862, in the service of the 
Sixteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry. The father died 
in 1851. 

Philip Axtel Throckmorton was born March 19, 
I 1 -*:!'.*, in Washington county. Penn. He resided 
with his parents until the death of his father which 
occurred when he was twelve years of age; then he 
hired out by the month and helped in the support 
of the family. On October 2, 1869, he married 
Martha Ann, daughter of William Sanders, of 
Morris township, and to them four children have 
been born: Flora Vidella, born October 30, lN~n ; 
Hannah Mary, born October 20, 1S74; William 
Edgar, born November 26, 1877, and Rollin A., 
born May 24, 1885, all of whom are living with 
their parents. Mr. Throckmorton is nicely situ- 
ated in his home, having recently erected a beau- 
tiful and commodious residence. In politics he is 
a Prohibitionist, formerly a Democrat. He is a 
member of the Baptist Church at Mt. Hermon, 
and his wife is identified with the Presbyterian 
Church at Prosperity. 



dH. REDD is a grandson of Solomon and 
Mary (Scott) Redd, natives of Washington 
county, Penn., who settled on the home farm 
in Allen township many years ago. He died 
in Virginia, and in 1860 his widow passed away in 
the same State. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1403 



Thomas C. Redd, son of Solomon Redd, was 
born in April, 18*22, in Allen township, Washing- 
ton county, receiving his education in the schools 
of Allen and Fallowfield townships. In early life 
he was married to Elmira Conrad, a native of Fal- 
lowfield township, where they resided for several 
years, afterward moving to Allen township; they 
finally bought the Conrad place in Fallowfield 
township, where the remainder of their lives was 
passed. He was an active member of the Repub- 
lican party, and in religion he and his wife were 
identified with the Ebenezer M. E. Church. They 
were the parents of eleven children, of whom the 
following are yet living: Marvin P., proprietor of 
the Redd Hotel at Charleroi, this county; Josie, 
living in Nottingham township, on Pigeon creek; 
Melissa, wife of Sanford Carson, of Charleroi; 
J. H, whose name opens this sketch; Ellsworth, a 
farmer of Fallowfield township; William, living in 
Charleroi; Maggie and Charley, also residents of 
Charleroi. The father of this family died in Feb- 
ruary, 1892, and his widow is now living in 
Charleroi. 

J. H. Redd was born in 1860, on his present 
farm in Allen township, this county, where he grew 
to manhood, receiving an education in the district 
schools of Fallowfield township; he has always fol- 
lowed farming. In May, 1880, he was united in 
marriage with Gertrude, daughter of John and 
Lucy Ann (Scott) Sphar, natives of Allen town- 
ship, where they are now living. Mr. and Mrs. 
Redd resided in Fallowfield township until 1884, 
when he bought and moved upon the 125 acres in 
Allen township, of which he has recently sold 
twenty- four acres. He has been actively identified 
with the Republican party, and in religion is a 
member of the Ebenezer M. E. Church, with 
which his wife is also connected. They have four 
children, namely: Vedy, Lucy Ann, Thomas Oak- 
land and an infant. 



learned the trade of a cabinet-maker, eventually 
opening a furniture store in Burgettstown, Smith 
township. Some time afterward he became asso- 
ciated with Mr. Scott, and they have since carried 
on the business with much profit. On November 
21, 188-, he was united in marriage with Rachel, 
daughter of William Russell, a pioneer resident of 
this county. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. 
McElhany are Jennie M. and Tilla M. (twins), 
William M. (deceased) and Maggie G. In politics 
William McElhany was originally a Democrat, and 
served his township and the borough of Burgetts- 
town in various official capacities; since 1890 he 
has espoused the cause of the Prohibition party. 
He has been a member of the Presbyterian Church 
at Burgettstown for many years, and is now filling 
the position of elder. 



y\ILLIAM M. McELHANY, of the firm of 
/ McElhany & Scott, cabinet-makers, Bur- 
gettstown, is an example of the possible 
success which lies before all those now at 
the bottom of the ladder, who possess in- 
telligence, coupled with willing hearts and hands. 
He is to-day one of the most prosperous business 
men of Burgettstown, although he began life with 
no financial aid. 

William McElhany was born July 15, 1849, in 
Allegheny county, Penn., and moved to West 
Virginia with his parents when but nine and a 
half years of age. The father died when the son 
was a lad of twelve years, and the little fellow 
began life for himself. He first learned the 
carpenter's trade, which vocation he followed 
several years with marked success, but afterward 



f | AMES D. STROUD, a progressive and intel- 
ligent agriculturist of Fallowfield township, 
f I is a native of Washington county, born on 
—J the family homestead, April 6, 1856. He is 
a son of John Stroud, whose father, a native 
of Maryland, made a settlement in Pennsylvania. 

John Stroud was born in 1818 in Washington 
county, Penn., and learned the blacksmith's trade, 
which he followed during a considerable part of 
his younger life. In 1855 he was married to 
Martha Yant, who bore him two sons, James D. 
ftnd William A., the latter of whom was married 
to a daughter of Clark Crow. After his marriage 
John Stroud abandoned his trade, and gave is un- 
divided attention to farming and stock raising. 
In 1880 he was laid to rest; his widow is yet living 
on the old place iu Fallowfield township. 

James D. Stroud, the subject proper of this bio- 
graphical memoir, has passed all his life iu his 
native township. On August 7, 1880, he was 
united in marriage with Jennie, daughter of Henry 
Hanuan, a prominent farmer of Washington 
county, and three sons and one daughter have 
blessed their union, namely: Charley A., John W. 
B. , Walter L. and Bessie Viola. Mr. Stroud's 
farm, on which he has resided eleven years, con- 
tains 117 acres of well-cultivated land, lying six 
miles southwest of Monongahela, and here he 
carries on general agriculture, devoting consider- 
able attention to the raising of sheep and other 
live stock. 

JAMES C. POLLOCK, an old and respected 
citizen of Hanover township, was born 
December 22, 1812, in Chester county, Penn., 
the third in order of birth of the children 
born to Edwin and Margaret (Boyd) Pollock. 
Edwin Pollock was a native of County Down, Ire- 
land, and was educated for the ministry, but to 
avoid being forced to enter the army, his relatives 



1404 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



smuggled him on board a vessel bound for Amer- 
ica, and he died in this country, when his son 
James was but h little fellow. 

James C. Pollock was educated at the rate 
schools of Chester county, Penn. After the death 
of his father, his mother was married to one Fred- 
erick Aulthouse, of Chester county, Penn., and in 
later years young James came to Washington 
county with his mother and stepfather. The 
journey over the mountains was made in a wagon, 
which contained the family and household goods. 
On arriving in Washington county, they crossed 
the Monongahela river at Brownsville, locating 
near Monongahela City, where the stepfather re- 
sided the remainder of his days, devoting his time 
to rural life. 

James C. Pollock began business for himself at 
an early age, and for some time drove stage on the 
old National pike from Monongahela City to Robbs- 
town, Penn., then became a teamster in Monon- 
gahela City. In 1834 he was married to Eliza 
Carney, who was born in 1813, a daughter of 
James Carney, a native of Ireland. To this union 
cine son was born: William F., now a practing 
physician of Pittsburgh. Penn. The mother died 
in 1841, and on February 23, 1843, James C. Pol- 
lock was married to Julia Ann Crouer, who was 
born June 7, 1817, in Somerset county, Penn.. a 
daughter of Abraham and Elizabeth (Brown) 
Crouer. The children of James C. and Julia 
A. (Crouer) Pollock are as follows: Joseph H.' 
living with his father, who has charge of the farm, 
in connection with his brother; Elizabeth L., de- 
ceased wife of William A. Jackson; James D., 
in partnership with their father; 
of Marshall Wright, of Brooke 
and Sarah M., deceased wife of 
Thomas Peterson. In 1844 the family removed 
from Monongahela City to Cross Creek township, 
where they remained a short time, then moved to 
Burgettstown, where Mr. Pollock was the mana- 
ger of the "Keystone Hotel." He then went to 
Florence, and conducted a hotel which was the 
stopping place for stages on the Pittsburgh & 
Steubenville pike, remaining there for several 
years, and finally purchasing a place in Hanover 
township, since which time he has been farming 
and stock raising. In 188") he removed to his 
present pleasant home situated about a quarter of 
a mile north of Florence, and his two sons now 
have charge of the farm. Mr. Pollock has suc- 
ceeded in gathering a goodly amount of property, 
although he began life as a poor boy. He gives 
much attention to the breeding of fine horses, and 
the presence on his farm of two such well known 
specimens of the equine race as "Careless" and 
" Judge Hoadly " is ample evidence of his judg- 
ment concerning horses. Two such animals as 
those above mentioned, descended from the best 



one of two sons 
Margaret, wife 
county, W. Va. 



sires ever known to the American trotting turf. 
will surely advance the quality of the horses 
through the entire neighborhood. In politics 
Mr. Pollock is a member of the Democratic party, 
to which he has given a faithful support; he has 
filled several offices of trust with credit to him- 
self, among which may be mentioned those of jury 
commissioner, constable, register and assessor of 
Hanover township. Since 1890 Mr. Pollock has 
retired from active work, and is now living in 
seclusion from business. 




OBERT W. HAGERTY. This gentleman, 
one of the leading agriculturists of the 
county, but now retired, having rented his 
farm in Buffalo township, is a grandson of 
Joseph Hagerty, who came from Ireland to 
this country in an early day, and had married, in 
his native land, Mrs. Hannah Fleming, a widow; 
they both died in Washington county, Penn., 
whither they had come in 1812. They had a family 
of thirteen children, of whom there is record of the 
following: John, Joseph, Robert, Blair and Will 
iam are all deceased; Joseph and David were 
twins, of whom Joseph lives in Kansas and David 
in Washington, Penn. ; Nancy is the deceased wife 
of Joseph Van Kirk; Mary is the deceased wife of 
Samuel Wilkey; Betsy died unmarried; and one 
died at the age of three years. The father of this 
family passed from earth in 1825, at the age of 
one hundred and ten years; the mother at the home 
of her son William, in 1850, when aged ninety- 
three years. 

William Hagerty, father of Robert W., was born 
in 1813, in this county, near Canousburg, and was 
reared to agricultural pursuits. In 1838 he mar- 
ried Miss Emily, daughter of Robert Wilson, of 
Franklin township, and they then settled on a farm 
in Buffalo township. The children born to this 
union were as follows: John, in Buffalo township; 
Elizabeth, wife of William Moore, also in Buffalo 
township; Hannah, wife of William Hepler, in 
Washington; Robert W.,and Martha, married to 
Richard Mounts, of Buffalo township. In Febnr- 
ary, 1884. the mother was taken away by death, 
and the father then came into the borough of 
Washington, where he passed the remainder of his 
days, dying in 1886 at the age of seventy-three 
years. Politically he was a Democrat, and held 
various township offices. He was a thoroughly 
representative go-ahead American, climbing from 
the bottom of the ladder of success to the top, 
rung by rung, entirely by his own individual ef- 
forts, beginning life a poor boy, and dying the 
owner of two fine farms in Buffalo township, which 
are still in the family's possession. He and his 
wife were members of the United Presbyterian 
Church. 




& £> y j£j^r 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1407 



Robert W. Hagerty, the chief subject of these 
lines, is a native of the county, born in Buffalo 
township, May 24, 1851. His education was se- 
cured during the winter months at the common 
schools of the district, while the remainder of the 
year was passed in laboring on the home farm, 
learning the many important and arduous duties 
incident to agricultural pursuits. In January, 
1887, Mr. Hagerty married Miss Frances, daughter 
of Robert and Eliza A. (Lafferty) Hagerty (the 
latter of whom was a sister of Dr. Lafferty, of 
Brownsville), of Pittsburgh, and they had one 
child that died in infancy. In 1889 Mr. and Mrs. 
Hagerty came to Washington, he having rented his 
farm, which has fourteen producing oil wells on it, 
one of them the largest in the township, yielding 
115 barrels per hour. This farm is in Buffalo 
township, some five and a half miles from Wash- 
ington, on the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad. Polit- 
ically, our subject is a Democrat, and in religion 
he and his wife are members of the Christian 
Church. Their home in the borough is situated 
on a high piece of ground commanding a fine view, 
on the corner of Main street and Prospect avenue. 



FJRANK W. JONES, a prosperous young ag- 
riculturist of Smith township, is a repre- 
sentative of one of the old pioneer families 
of Washington county. 
Samuel Jones, grandfather of subject, was born 
in 1794, at Squirrel Hill (now a suburb of Pitts- 
burgh), Allegheny Co., Penn. His father's family 
came to Allegheny county from the eastern part 
of the State, and among other lands then for sale 
Mr. Jones was offered the tract known as " The 
Point " (now a portion of Pittsburgh), for the sum 
of $4.50 per acre; but it was very swampy and al- 
most covered with willow bushes, so they settled 
on "Squirrel Hill," where Samuel was born. 
Samuel Jones worked on his father's farm and at- 
tended the rate schools during his boyhood. 
About 1817 he was married to Sarah Deller, who 
was born about 1800, also a native of "Squirrel 
Hill," a daughter of Samuel Deller, who came to 
Allegheny county from near Carlisle, Penn. The 
children born to this union were: James (a car- 
penter, of Midway, Penn., where he died at the age 
of sixty years), John (a farmer, of Smith township, 
deceased when forty years of age), Samuel (father 
of subject), Isaac (a resident of Burgettstown and 
Midway, Penn., deceased), Julia (wife of Michael 
Hanley, a farmer of Beaver county, Penn.), Sarah 
(Mrs. Hunter Pinkerton, of Robinson township, 
this county) and William (a druggist of Midway, 
Penn.). After his marriage Samuel Jones moved to 
Washington county, Penn., locating near Midway, 
in Robinson towmhip, where he passed the re- 
mainder of his life in agricultural pursuits, becom- 



ing very successful in his chosen vocation. In po- 
litical opinion he was a lifelong Democrat. He 
died in 1854, his widow continuing to reside on the 
home place until her death, which occurred in 
1863, when she was buried by the side of her hus- 
band. 

Samuel Jones was born in 1822. in Robinson 
township, this county, and after receiving a limited 
education, learned the carpenter's trade, which he 
followed several years. In 1860 he was united in 
marriage with Nancy, daughter of William and 
Margaret (Marshall) Aiken, who bore him two chil- 
dren: Samuel D. (a farmer of Mt. Pleasant town- 
ship) and Frank W. (subject of sketch). Mr. and 
Mrs. Samuel Jones first located near Midway, 
Penn. , and in 1868 came to Smith township, this 
county, purchasing the farm where he afterward re- 
sided, which was one-quarter of a mile south of 
Bulger, this county. He was a successful farmer 
and a good citizen; in politics he voted the Demo- 
cratic ticket. He died in April, 1880, and since 
his death Mrs. Jones has resided on the farm, upon 
which her sons have erected a handsome residence. 
She is a member of the United Presbyterian Church 
at Midway, this county. 

Frank W. Jones was born September 17, 1868, 
near Midway, Robinson township, this county, 
and when a small boy came with his parents to his 
present farm. Since the death of his father Mr. 
Jones has had charge of the place, which he has 
managed with marked success, and is considered 
one of the leading young business men of the com- 
munity. Like his father, he is a Democrat in 
politics, and in religion is a member of the United 
Presbyterian Church at Midway. 



TfOHN FISHER WHITE possesses a reputa 
l I tion for business integrity and sterling worth 
((J ; which many a man, apparently more success- 
ful, would give much to obtain. 

He is a representative of a pioneer family. His 
grandfather, James White, was born in eastern 
Pennsylvania, and with two brothers crossed the 
mountains in early life to seek his fortune in the 
West. He located on, and patented, a large tract 
of land near Canonsburg, this county, where his 
life was passed. He possessed a taste for mechan- 
ical work, and, it is said, was able to make any- 
thing that could be made out of wood. He learned 
the wagon- making trade, to which most of his life 
was devoted He was a consistent, faithful follower 
of the Master, and an active, liberal member of the 
United Presbyterian Church. He died at an ad- 
vanced age, leaving seven children, viz. : James, 
John, David, Moses, Patterson, Margaret and 
Elizabeth. 

David White was born on his father's farm near 
Canonsburg, Washington county, where his youth 



1408 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



was passed. He learned the carpenter's trade, which 
he followed for some years, then moved to Holmes 
county, Ohio, where he was married to Lucretia. 
daughter of John Fisher, a prominent farmer of 
Holmes county, who was killed while rolling logs. 
Mr. and Mrs. White had six children, viz. : James, 
John, Alexander, William, David and Thomas. 
Some time after his marriage the father returned 
to Pennsylvania, and resided in Pittsburgh, where 
Ins wife died in 1846. The family were then scat- 
tered, and each of the sons, choosing a vocation, 
began life for themselves. 

John Fisher White was born September 21, 1831, 
in Pittsburgh, Penn., and when fourteen years of age 
went to live upon a farm, attending school during 
the winter months. In 1852 he entered the mill 
ing business with Capt. Thomas Esby, of Alle- 
gheny county, Penn., where he remained twenty 
years. He was united in marriage with Sarah 
Jane, daughter of Isaac Rankin, of Peterson, A lie 
gheny county, Penn. Isaac Rankin is a represent- 
ative of a prominent Irish family, who were closely 
identified with the early history of Allegheny 
county. The following children have been born to 
the union of John and Sarah Jane (Rankin) White: 
Elizabeth (Mrs. Stevens), Anna Belle, Clarinda, 
Emma, Ella Huffman. Thomas Esby, Nora May 
and Oliver G. Mr. White votes the Republican 
ticket, and is now serving his third term as school 
director of Somerset township, having beerr elected 
as president of the board. He and his family are 
members of the Methodist Church. 

His noble character is well illustrated in the fol- 
lowing incident: A rival mill was established near 
that of Mr. White several years ago, and the pro- 
prietor was suddenly taken ill. He was a poor 
man. dependent on his daily earnings for the sup- 
port of himself and family, but no one in the neigh- 
borhood understood the business well enough to 
supply his place even for a short time. He dared 
not hope to retain his patrons, but what could be 
done? Sick and helpless he lay, while the busi- 
ness which had provided the necessaries of life 
was in immediate danger of being utterly destroyed. 
But help was near; John White heard of his un- 
fortunate rival's situation, and, leaving his own 
mill in the hands of trusted employes, donned his 
floury hat, and, takiug charge of his neighbor's 
mill, conducted the business until the proprietor 
had regained his usual health. The reader will 
easily understand why Mr. White is so popular 
and respected a citizen. 



I 



EWIS CALVIN McCLEARY, one of the 

most prosperous young farmers of East Fin- 
h'v township, was born June 6, 1855, in 
East Finley township, this county. William 
McCleary. his father, was born of Irish parentage, 



a son of Thomas and Mary (Linn) McCleary, who 
emigrated from Ireland and made a permanent 
home in Virginia, where they reared a large familv 
of children, of whom William was born February 
18, 1805, and passed his early life in Virginia. 

In 1830 he moved to Washington county, Penn., 
and for eighteen years drove stage on the National 
pike, afterward served live years as constable of 
Donegal township. He then served as toll collector 
near West Alexander, and finally settled on the 
farm in East Finley township, which is now the 
property of his heirs. On January 17, 1836, he 
was united in marriage with Susan G. Wilkinson, 
of Fayette county, Penn., daughter of Thomas 
and Prudence (Lewis) Wilkinson, and she bore him 
the following children: Thomas J., born February 
20, 1837 (married to Martha Russell); James C, 
born January 3, 1839 (married to Maggie Hair); 
John E., born June 24, 1S41 (married to Cornelia 
Carter); Mary J., born December 17, 1843 (wife of 
Robert Bell); Sarah E., born January 16, PS46 
(Mrs. Porter McCarrell); William L., born May 
23, 1848 (married to Mary E. Brinton); Martha 
L., born August 16, 1850 (wife of John Donely); 
Francis M., born July 18, 1853 (married to Adel- 
phia Mitchell); Lewis Calvin (subject of sketch); 
Martin L. , born August 13, 1857 (married to 
Laura Stoy); and Caroline A., born December 6, 
i860 (residing at home). William McCleary was 
an earnest member of the Baptist Church. In 
politics he was active in the Democratic party, and 
served three years as superintendent of the Cum- 
berland road. On April 3, 1882, he passed from 
this life, leaving an honorable and enviable record. 

Lewis Calvin McCleary was born on the farm 
of his father near the headwaters of the Templeton 
fork of Wheeling creek, and received his education 
at Pleasant Grove school, in West Finley township. 
He assisted his father on the farm until 1876, 
when he began working for Robert Bell, of Frank- 
lin township, this county, being in his employ for 
more than two years; then returned home and re- 
mained there until the death of his father. In May, 
1882, he was married to Violet A. Porter, who was 
born December 10, 1857, a daughter of John Por- 
ter, of Donegal township, this county, and the 
following children were born to them: Beatrice 
Lenora, born April 17, 1SS3; Annie Myrtle, born 
November 2, 1884 (deceased May 10, 1886); Nel- 
lie May, born September 19, 1886; Bessie Eveline, 
born January 11, 1888; Herbert Raymond, born 
May 15, 1890. 

After the death of his father Mr. McCleary pur- 
chased a one-third interest in the home farm, and 
has also an interest in 500 acres of farm land in 
Marshall county, W. Va. Since purchasing the 
home farm, Mr. McCleary has resided there, en- 
gaged in agriculture, and very prominently identi- 
fied with stock raising. He has introduced some 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1409 



of the very finest breeds of cattle and sheep to be 
found in the county, and, with a brother, was the 
first to introduce, from direct importation, Dorset 
sheep in East Finley township. He is also much 
interested in breeding Holsteiu cattle, and owns 
some very line imported specimens of that stock, 
and which he breeds for sale. Politically Mr. 
McCleary is a Democrat, and is always in demand 
during every political crisis; he has held several 
township offices. In religious faith he and his 
wife are both members of the Baptist Church at 
Pleasant Grove. 




RS. JANE SAVAGE, one of the highly 
esteemed ladies of Hanover township, is the 
widow of William Savage, whose father, 
Henry Savage, came from Ireland to this 
country about 1795, and located in Alle- 
gheny county, Penn., near what is now the village 
of Noblestown. He was there married to Jane 
Robinson, who bore him the following children: 
John (of Ohio), William, Alexander (who lived in 
California). Henry (of Iowa), Jane (Mrs. Hugh 
Riddle) and Elizabeth (Mrs. Creighton), all now 
deceased. The father was a successful farmer of 
Allegheny county, and he and his wife lived to 
old age, dying near Noblestown. 

William Savage was born about 1800 near No- 
blestown, Allegheny county, and attended the sub- 
scription schools of the period. In 1821 he was 
married to Nancy Riddle, a daughter of Rev. 
Riddle, pastor of what is now Robinson's Run U. 
P. Church, and she bore him children is fol- 
lows: Alexander (who was twice married, and died 
in Iowa), Margaret Ann (married three times, and 
died in Allegheny county, Penn.), Jane (Mrs. John 
Cook, of Washington, Iowa), Henry (a merchant, 
of Kansas) and Nancy (Mrs. Connor, of Iowa, now 
deceased). The mother of this family died, and 
was buried at Robinson's Run church, and for his 
second wife Mr. Savage married, on January 16, 
1851, Mrs. Margaret Ann (Leeper) Wallace, by 
whom he had three children, viz. : one deceased in 
infancy, Robert, who enlisted in the One Hundred 
and Fortieth Regiment, P. V. I., and was killed at 
Spottsylvania Courthouse, and Anna Mary (Mrs. 
Cooper), of Iowa. The mother of these dying, 
William Savage married, for his third wife, Jane 
Duncan, who was born June 7, 1816, in Hanover 
township, this county, a daughter of Robert Dun- 
can, who came from eastern Pennsylvania to Han- 
over township in early days. To the union of 
William Savage and Jane Duncan two children 
were born, namely: William J., now residing on 
the home farm, and who is a representative 
agriculturist of the township, and Jeanette, Mrs. 
Cyrus Arnold, of Hanover township. During the 
earlier years of his married life Mr. Savage re- 



sided near Noblestown, Allegheny Co., Penn., then 
moved to Muskingum county, Ohio, but not liking 
the country returned to his native county, and 
passed the remainder of his days in farming and 
stock raising. He was a good citizen and a strong 
supporter of the Whig party, which was afterward 
merged into the Republican party. He died April 
8, 1862, and was buried in the cemetery of Robin- 
son's Run U. P. church, of which he was a mem- 
ber. After his death Mrs. Savage remained on 
the home farm for a short time, then moved to 
Frankfort, Beaver Co., Penn., where she resided 
some years, and educated her two children. In 
1869 she purchased a home in Hanover township, 
which is situated three and one-half miles north- 
east of Florence, Penn., where she is now living, 
her son William J. having charge of the place. 
Mrs. Savage is an intelligent lady, and she pos- 
sesses an excellent memory. She is a member of 
Frankfort U. P. Church. ' 




W. VANCE. Of the prominent mer 

chants of Burgettstown, Penn., this gen- 
tleman is among the most prosperous. 
He was born April 1, 1842, in Cross 
Creek township, this county. The blood 
of Scottish patriots flows in his veins, his great- 
grandfather, Joseph Vance, having been born in 
the Highlands of Scotland in the eighteenth cent- 
ury. In earl}' manhood he immigrated to America, 
and first settled in Winchester, Va. , comino: in 
1774 to Pennsylvania. He located in Cross Creek 
township, Washington county, while the Indians 
were still very numerous, and soon achieved a 
wide spread reputation as an Indian fighter, many 
of the dusky warriors having fallen by his un- 
erring rifle. Few, if any, were more prominently 
identified with the early settlement of the western 
portion of Washington county, than was Joseph 
Vance. He married and passed the remainder of 
of his life in the wilderness where his first log 
cabin was erected; the uncultivated land has now 
become a fertile farm. He and his wife were 
called to their rest at an advanced age, leaving 
their children to finish the work so nobly begun. 

Among these children was a son, William, who 
was born in 1776, and reared in Washington county, 
amid the trials and dangers of pioneer life. His 
education was necessarily limited, as schools were 
few, and at best afforded but meager opportuni- 
ties. He was first married to Rachel Patterson, a 
resident of Cross Creek township, who bore him 
six children. She died, and a few years after- 
ward he married, for his second wife, Hannah 
Patterson, a member of an old family of Cross 
Creek township. To this union, also, there were 
born six children. Mr. Vance always lived in 
Cross Creek township, and was one of the repre- 



1410 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



seutative men of the day. He died in 1856. He 
was a Whig in politics, and in religion a member 
of the Presbyterian Church. 

Thomas P. Vance, son of William and Hannah 
(Patterson) Vance, was born July 15, 1819. He 
was reared on the pioneer farm, partaking of the 
privations of early frontiersmen and receiving his 
education at the subscription schools. In early 
manhood Thomas P. Vance was united in marriage 
with Mary W., daughter of George Newell, of 
Ohio. Mr. Newell was married to Mary Marquis, 
ami their children were Hugh, Jane, Marquis, 
Margaret, David, Mary W., Ann and Sarah. Mr. 
Newell was a Democrat, and in church connection 
was a member of and elder in the Presbyterian 
Church. Mr. and Mrs. Vance settled on a farm 
in Cross Creek township, this county, where he 
passed his life in agricultural pursuits. He paid 
much attention to stock raising, making a specialty 
of sheep. He was formerly a Whig, and upon the 
organization of the party, became a Republican, 
and in religion he was a prominent member of the 
Presbyterian Church at Cross Creek and Burgetts- 
town. On May 31, 1891, he was laid to rest in 
Cross Creek cemetery by the side of his wife, who 
had preceded him, leaving two children: W. W., and 
Mary E. (Mrs. W. S. Lee). 

W. W. Vance, son of Thomas P. and Mary W. 
(Newell) Vance, was reared and educated in Cross 
Creek township, this county, and passed his early 
life in farming. In September, 1883, he was 
united in marriage with Ann J. Porter. In 1882 
Mr. Vance came to Burgettstown and formed a 
partnership with S. C. McGregor, in the general 
merchandise business, and at present has the 
largest stock of goods in the town, realizing a 
good profit from the daily sales. In politics he 
has always been an active Republican. He is a 
member of the Presbyterian Church, and one of its 
most liberal supporters. 



J'OHN SHANTON, an agriculturist of Carroll 
J township, is descended from natives of the 
j "Blue Grass" State. His grandfather, Abram 
Shanton, was born in Bourbon county, Ky., 
where his boyhood was passed on the farm. 
In 1820 he and his family moved to Pickaway 
county, Ohio, where he died, leaving several chil- 
dren. 

Raymond Shanton was born and reared in Ken- 
tucky, and came to Ohio with his father in 1820. 
He was married to Margaret, daughter of John 
McClain, a native of Kentucky, and their children 
were Jane (wife of Lewis Fry), Margaret (married 
to J. D. Kline, of Ross county, Ohio), Nancy (de- 
ceased) and John. The father died about sixty 
years ago. 

John Shanton was born July 22, 1830, in Pick- 



away county, Ohio, where he attended the log- 
cabin school, and studied from the text-books of 
the day, viz.: Webster's Speller and Calculator. 
In 1848 young Shanton left his native State, and 
went to Pennsylvania, locating in Fallowrield town- 
ship, Washington county. In 1849 he was married 
to Louisa Fry, at which time he had but 5 cents 
with which to begin housekeeping. She was born 
in 1820, a member of the prominent Fry family of 
Washington county. Mr. and Mrs. Shanton moved 
to Belle Vernon, Fayette Co., Peun., the year after 
their marriage, and he worked on a sawmill there 
for several years. In 1855 they went to Ross 
county, Ohio, where he conducted a hotel four 
years. They then returned to Washington coun- 
ty, and locating on a farm, followed stock raising 
and distilling. He now owns eighty-seven acres 
of good land, and has accumulated a comfortable 
property, notwithstanding the fact that he lost 
about $0,000 by tire in the distillery. Politically 
he votes with the Republican party. 



OBERT J. ELWOOD, one of the leading 
and most prosperous of Washington 

r\\ county's intelligent representative farmer 
— ^ citizens, is a son of an old pioneer of this 
part of the State, by name William Elwood, 
a native of Belmont countv, Ohio, who came hither 
in 1818. 

William Elwood was poor, both in this world's 
goods and in what an education might have given 
him, but he had received none. When he entered 
Washington county, all his belongings he carried 
in a bandanna handkerchief; but the hand that it 
was held in was rich in honesty and industry, des- 
tined ultimately to place its owner on the top rung 
of the ladder of success. He was a blacksmith by 
trade, at which he worked assiduously in Centre- 
ville, this county, and by indomitable persever- 
ance, close attention to business, and judicious 
economy, he not only made money, but saved it. 
By and by he bought a house and lot, then sixty- 
six acres of land, then 122, then 211 acres near 
Fredericktown, and, finally, vet another tract of 
128 acres, all in East Bethlehem township, and 
every foot of it earned by honest labor. (This 
tract is now owned and occupied by his son Robert 
J., the principal improvements being placed on it 
by the latter, including an elegant and commodi- 
ous residence costing $2, 000. ) This sou of toil, 
this nobleman of nature, surrounded by the bless- 
ings he had gathered about him, was called from 
the scene of his labors in 1871. In politics he was 
a Democrat, in religion a member of the Cumber- 
land Presbyterian Church. His wife, who had 
been reared in the Quaker faith, died in 1885. 

William Elwood married a Miss Greer, who bore 
him seven children, all now deceased, as is also 




1 




WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1413 



their mother. After her death he married, for his 
second wife, Ruth Lilley, who was born in 1812, a 
daughter of Thomas Lilley, a native of Ireland, 
and the children of this union were Thomas W., a 
resident of Charleroi, this county; Robert J.; J. 
U., a machinist in McKeesport, Penn., and one 
that died in infancy. 

Robert J. Elwood was born December 25, 1849, 
in East Bethlehem township, Washington Co., 
Penn., was educated in the common sohools of his 
neighborhood, and reared to agricultural pursuits. 
On the death of his father he took charge of the 
homestead, and cared for his widowed mother un- 
til her death in 1885. Mr. Elwood was married 
May 3, 1873, to Maggie E., daughter of John and 
Mary (Reynolds) Deems, of West Pike Run town- 
ship (now deceased), and the children of this union 
were Alverdi R. (attending the Southwestern State 
Normal School at California, Penn.), and John 
William (who died in infancy). Mr. Elwood is a 
Democrat, and has held the office of school direct- 
or six years, also judge of election for a time. 
Mrs. Elwood is a member of the Methodist Church. 



T'HE PARK FAMILY are numbered with the 
earliest settlers of Washington county. 
Penn. In the fall of 1777 one Samuel Park 
came from Lancaster, Penn., to Washington 
county, and bought 566 acres of land on 
Chartiers creek, of Matthew Rodgers. He then 
returned home, and sent out his two sons John and' 
James, with their sister Isabella to keep house for 
them. The rest of the family soon followed, and 
to the original tract other lands were added. This 
Samuel Park died in 1794, followed by his wife in 
1808. Their children were John, James, Mary, 
Isabella and Hugh. 

John Park was born December 18, 1758, in Done- 
gal, Lancaster Co., Penn., coming with the family 
to Washington county when a young man. In 1787 
he married Sarah McDowell, a native of South 
Strabane township, this county. They resided on 
the Park farm several years, and April 20, 1809, 
bought and moved upon the homestead in Cecil 
township, this county. The following children 
were born to this marriage: Rebecca (Mrs. James 
Rankin), William, and McDowell (a wealthy land- 
owner who resided on a part of the homestead. He 
was never married). 

William Park, second child of John and Sarah 
(McDowell) Park, was born July 15, 1797. In 
1831 he bought a 300-acre farm in Peters town- 
ship, this county, and having prepared the home, 
lost no time in securing a life companion. On Oc- 
tober 29, 1833, he was united in marriage with 
Miss Jane Law, and settling on the place devoted 
his time to sheep raising and wool growing. Of 
the seven children born to this couple, John is 



living in Cecil township, Robert resides in Peters 
township, James M. lives in Cauonsburg. and Sarah, 
married to J. L. Thompson, is living in Westmore- 
land county, Penn. The father was trustee of 
Jefferson College thirty years, and also director of 
the Chartiers Valley Railroad Company. He died 
November 6, 1870, in his seventy-third year. 

James M. Park was born December 25, 1850, 
and attended the schools of the home district 
during his boyhood. He was married to Nancy J., 
daughter of Thomas Hill, a resident of Peters 
township, this county, and she has borne him two 
children, William and Clara. Some years after his 
marriage Mr. Park moved to Allegheny, Penn., 
residing in that city for some time, where he was 
interested in musical enterprises. He then came 
to Cauonsburg, this county, and opened the gen- 
eral merchandise business which he is now con- 
ducting. Politically he is an active member of the 
Republican party. He is a member of the Presby- 
terian Church at Canonsburg, and has for some 
time led the choir. 




\ILLIAM KERR, who was in his lifetime 
;i much respected citizen of East Finley 
township, was descended from Irish an- 
cestry. His grandfather, Hugh Kerr, was 
a prominent weaver and manufacturer of 
County Down, Ireland. 

Andrew Kerr, son of Hugh, was born February 

14, 1768, in Ireland, and learned the trade of a 
weaver. He emigrated to America at the age of 
eighteen, landing, after a voyage of thirteen weeks, 
at New York, and thence proceeding to Buffalo 
township, Washington Co., Penn., where in the 
spring of 1787 he purchased about sis hundred' 
acres of land, situated nearly four and a half miles 
northeast of Claysvilie, this county. There in the 
unbroken wilderness he erected his cabin home, 
and in 1805 was married to Esther Stevenson, born 
November 18, 1782, near the present village of 
Coon Island; she was the daughter of James 
Stevenson, a native of Washington county. To 
this union were born the following named children: 
Jane (Mrs. Jessie Bane), born October 30, 1806; 
Robert (married to Nancy Vanderhuff), born May 
6, 1808; James, born December 18, 1810; William 
(subject of the present memoir); Elizabeth, born 
December 17, 1816, and Esther, born December 

15, 1818, all of whom lived to an adult age. Sev- 
eral years after the marriage of Andrew Kerr, his 
aged parents left their native land to spend their 
declining years with their son. His mother was a 
physician, and successfully followed that profession 
in this couutry until 1822, when both she and her 
husband died of yellow fever. Andrew became a 
wealthy farmer, but afterward sold the greater 
portion of his property to "give bail'' for a 



1414 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



nephew, and this expense almost ruined him. He 
continued to live on the farm until his death, which 
occurred July 1 •">. 1850, hie wife having preceded 
him August 14, 1S49. They were both buried in 
Pleasant Grove cemetery, East Fiuley township, 
this county, and their children rest beside them. 
Mr. Kerr was an active supporter of the Demo- 
cratic party. In religious connection he united 
with the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, and the 
letter of recommendation which he brought to 
America in 1786 is still in the possession of his 
grandchildren. 

William Kerr was born December 27, 1813, in 
Buffalo township, Washington Co., Penn., and re- 
ceived a somewhat limited education, spending his 
boyhood days on the farm of his father. He also 
acquired a general knowledge of carpentry from 
practical experience. On October 31, 1837, he 
was united in marriage with Cynthia Peden, born 
April 15, 1817, daughter of Joseph and Hannah 
(Tilton) Peden, and to this union were born chil- 
dren as follows: James, born March 29, 1838 (a 
skilled carpenter and contractor, residing in Wheel- 
ing, W. Va.); Robert, born September 26, 1839, 
farming on the home place; Andrew, born July 
:!H. 1841 (deceased December .">, 1881); and 
Hannah, born January 28, 1843 (living with her 
mother on the home farm). After his marriage 
Mr. Kerr purchased, of David Peden, a tract of 
land in East Finley township, situated about two 
miles west of Pleasant Grove, where he lived and 
followed farming until his death, which occurred 
May 2, 1890. In politics he was always a Demo- 
crat, and in religion he was an adherent of the 
Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, of which his widow 
was a charter member, and one of the three who 
are still living. Mrs. Kerr resides with her son 
Robert and daughter Hannah, who manage the 
home farm. 



W 



R. BURNS, a well-known young farmer 
of Hanover township, familiarly known 
as " Dick," is the descendant of an old 
Scotch family. His great-grandfather, 
one John Burns, was born in Scotland, and coming 
to America, located in Allegheny county, Penn., 
many years ago. He married, and reared the fol- 
lowing sons: John, Robert, James, Thomas, Sam- 
uel. Alexander and William. The names of the 
daughters in this family have not been ascertained. 
The parents died in Allegheny county. 

John Burns, a son of this early pioneer, was 
born in Allegheny county, Penn., and attended the 
rate schools, afterward supplementing this earl}' 
training with a good practical education. He 
learned the cooper's trade, which he followed for 
some time. He was united in marriage with Jane 
Ivs, who was born ne;;r Candor, in Washing- 



ton county, Penn., a daughter of Henry Crooks. 
The children of John and Jane Burns were as fol- 
lows: Nancy, married to Samuel Nichols, a native 
of Ireland; Alexander, who lived near Clinton, 
Allegheny Co., Penn.; Jane, Mrs. Robert Aten: 
Henry; Mary, Mrs. John White, of Beaver county. 
Penn. ; John; William; Margaret, widow of James 
Hood, living in Hanover township; and George a 
farmer of Allegheny county, living on the old 
homestead. Of this family Margaret and George 
are yet living. The father followed farming for 
many years in connection with his trade, and lived 
to a ripe old age. In politics he was a lifelong 
Whig, and in religion he and his wife were mem- 
bers of Hopewell Presbyterian Church. Both 
were buried in the cemetery of that church. 

William Burns was born in 1811, in Allegheny 
county, Penn., and during boyhood worked on the 
farm, and attended the rate schools of his neigh- 
borhood. About 1836 he was married to a Miss 
Saxton, of Hanover township, Washington county, 
who bore him four children, namely: John (de- 
ceased in youth), Elizabeth (Mrs. James Purdy, 
of Allegheny county), Melissa (twice married, first 
to Samuel Simpson, then to a Mr. Parkinson) and 
Sarah J. (Mrs. James Cain, of Beaver county, 
Penn.). The mother died, and for his second wife 
Mr. Burns was married to Nancy Grouse, of Han 
over township, daughter of Jacob Grouse. Their 
children were Eveline (deceased), W. R. (subject), 
Ida (Mrs. Roscoe McClintock) and Andrew G. Af- 
ter his marriage William Burns located on the home 
farm in Hanover township, carrying on a success- 
ful business in general farming, and giving especial 
attention to the culture of small fruits. Polit- 
ically he was an enthusiastic Whig and Repub- 
lican. He died in 1879, and was buried in Frank- 
fort cemetery. After his death his widow con- 
tinued to reside on the old place left by her hus- 
band, which she managed until the time of her 
tragic death, in February, 1890. She was stand- 
ing as a spectator by a boiler house (used by a pipe- 
line company to transport oil) which had been 
erected on her property, when the boiler exploded 
and Mrs. Burns sustained injuries which resulted 
in her death three days later. She was laid by her 
husband in Frankfort cemetery. They were both 
members of the Presbyterian Church at Frank- 
fort, in which he had served in various capacities. 

W. R. Burns was born December 22, 1S63, in 
Hanover township, this county, and passed his 
boyhood on the old place. On September 30, 
1886, he was married to Lizzie Moore, who was 
born in 1865, a daughter of Russell and Hannah 
(Livingston) Moore, of Florence, this county. 
The young couple first located in Frankfort, 
Beaver Co., Penn., where he followed teaming in 
the oil fields, continuing in that business after 
coming to his present home. He has erected a 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1415 



very pleasant new residence on a part of the old 
homestead, where he is now living. He is a pro- 
gressive young farmer of Hanover township, and 
in politics votes with the Republican party. Mr. 
and Mrs. Burns have three children: William L., 
Ralph L. and Nancy M. , all living at home. 



THOMAS SANDERS, a prominent farmer of 
Morris township, is a sou of Stephen San- 
ders, and the only living representative of 
his family. Our subject was born in 1825, 
and received a limited education at the sub- 
scription schools of the section in which his father 
lived. The only business training he received was 
on the farm, on which he labored until maturity. 
In 1840 he married Jane Baldwin, born in 1827, a 
daughter of Selah Baldwin, at tbe time a resident 
of Morris township, but who afterward moved West. 
Mr. Sanders has resided at his present place of 
residence, three miles northeast of Prosperity, 
since his marriage. To the union of Mr. and Mrs. 
Sanders has come one child, Lavina. born in 1847; 
she was married to A. O. Wilson, and is now a resi- 
dent of Morris township. Mrs. Sanders died Febru- 
ary 16, 1866,andinl867Mr. Sanders married Cath- 
erine McCullough, who was born April 7, 1836. 
To this union were born five children: Hannah 
Jane, born December 2, 1867; Manan, born Jan- 
uary 4, 1870; Judson B., born August 9, 1872; 
John Forrest, born April 23, 1875; and Addie Ari- 
zona, born April 21, 1877, all of whom are living 
and make their homes with their father. In poli- 
tics Mr. Sanders is a Democrat, and both he and 
his wife are members of the Mt. Hermon Baptist 
Church. In 1882 he erected the handsome dwell- 
ing which they now occupy, and he has retired 
from the active labor of the farm, which is carried 
on bv his sous under his personal supervision. 




[JLLIAM WILLSON is a prominent bus- 
iness man of Claysville, Washington 
county. His paternal grandfather was a 
native of the Emerald Isle, where he mar- 
ried, and soon afterward with his wife 
and child immigrated to America. He first went 
to Philadelphia, and some time later moved to 
Dauphin county, Peun. , remaining there until his 
death. He had three children: James (a tailor 
and clothier in Philadelphia, Penn.), Elizabeth 
(Mrs. William Rogers) and William. After the 
death of her father, Mrs. Rogers lived with her 
brother James for some time, and then moved with 
her husband to Ohio, where she died. 

William Willson was born March 18, 1789, in 
Dauphin county, Penn. , and there learned the 
wheelwright's trade, which he afterward followed in 
both Dauphin and Washington counties. He en- 



listed in the war of 1812, participating in the bat- 
tle of Baltimore, and served until the close of the 
war, when he came to Washington county and 
bought a small tract of land in Buffalo township, 
where the remainder of his life was passed. On 
October 10, 1822, he was united in marriage with 
Rachel, daughter of James Keer, of Buffalo town- 
ship, and their children were as follows: Elizabeth, 
Jane, James, Margaret (Mrs. Thomas Hodgens), 
i JohnM., Mary (Mrs. George M. Warick), Emily, 
Rachel, and William. Mr. Willson was an intelli- 
gent and active business mau. Politically he was 
a Democrat, and filled various township offices. 
In religion he was an ardent worker in and a trus- 
tee of the Presbyterian Church at Claysville. His 
wife died August 2, 1848, and he was laid beside 
her April 27, 1869. 

William Willson (subject of our sketch) was born 
May 9, 1843, in Buffalo township, Washington 
Co., Penn.. and attended the common schools of 
the township until about seventeen years of age, 
when he entered the employ of a builder and con- 
tractor. He remained with this man until he had 
mastered the various details of that business, and 
at the age of twenty-two years engaged with Alex- 
ander Buchanan in general contracting, which he 
continued for some time with marked success. Mr. 
Willson then began business for himself, and soon 
became one of the best architects and builders of 
his locality. He possessed very original ideas, and 
soon studied out entirely new designs, some of 
which were models of grace. After following this 
business for several years, he entered into partner- 
ship with D. M. Campsey in a general hardware 
store. They remained together about ten years, 
when Mr. Willson united with J. W. Barnes in the 
grocery business; two years later, Mr. Barnes sold 
his share of the property to the present partner of 
Mr. Willson, and they now carry a full line of 
goods, and conduct the largest grocery in Clays- 
ville. On October 6, 1868, Mr. Willson was 
united in marriage with Sadie C. , daughter of Dr. 
John McCabe, of Buffalo township, this county. 
They have no children. He has ever favored all pub- 
lic enterprises which tended to advance the com- 
mon interests, and in political views he is an active 
worker in the Democratic party. In church con- 
nection, he is an earnest worker in the Presbyterian 
Church at Claysville, being especially interested in 
the Sunday-school, in which he is an officer. 



RS. MARTHA RANKIN is the widow of 
James Rankin, who was a grandson of 
John Rankin. John Rankin was born in 
Winchester, Va., and came with his par- 
ents to Washington county, Penn., about 
1775, bringing colored help with them from Vir- 
ginia. He had a family of eight sons and two 




1416 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



daughters, nearly all of whom were born in Win- 
chester, Ya. He located in Mt. Pleasant township, 
this county, securing 1,800 acres of choice land, 
then a vast wilderness, which is now transformed 
into some of the finest farms of Washington county. 
Here he erected a log cabin, and made such im- 
provements as were possible, being in constant 
danger from the treacherous savages. But bravelv 
and patiently he struggled on, establishing the 
pioneer home. After his sons had grown to man- 
hood, one of them, James, joined a party who went 
to establish a colony in Kentucky. They arrived 
safely, but during the return trip were attacked by 
the Indians, and James was killed, his fate being 
but one addition to that of the many pioneers who 
were practically martyrs to colonization. The 
parents of James passed the remainder of their 
lives on the frontier farm, both dying the same 
year. 

Samuel Rankin, youngest son of John, was born 
July 18, 1769, in Winchester, Va., and came to 
this county in 1774. On January 7, 1796, he was 
married to Jane McConahey, who was born Febru- 
ary 18, 1775, daughter of a pioneer settler, and 
the following children were born to their union: 
William, John, David, Matthew, Samuel, Stephen, 
James, Matilda, Abigail and Jane. Of these chil- 
dren Jane (unmarried) is the only one now living; 
the others lived to an adult age and were citizens 
of Washington county. Samuel Rankin became a 
wealthy farmer, and lived on the old home farm, 
which is situated about two miles northwest of 
Hickory, this county. In politics he was a Demo- 
crat, and was one of the famous "minute men." 
In religion he and his wife were members of the 
Union Church. He died in October, 1820, being 
followed by his wife July 20, 1869, in her ninety- 
fourth year. The remains of both lie in the U. P. 
cemetery at Hickory, Mt. Pleasant township, this 
county. Their children were as follows: William, 
born November 24, 1796 (deceased January 13, 
1884), John, born April 4, 1798 (deceased in April, 
L866), David, born February 15, 1800 (deceased 
July 27, 1858), Matthew, born February 15. 1802 
(deceased in June, 1880), Matilda, born March 
22, 1804 (deceased in February. 1875), Samuel, 
born June 3, 1 806 (deceased May 27, 1834), Abi- 
gail, born in October, 1808 (lived on the old home- 
stead), James (deceased, mentioned below), 
Stephen, born August 20, 1813 (deceased in Feb- 
ruary, 1877), and Jane, born February 6, 1817 
(living in Burgettstown). 

James Rankin was born March 24, 1811, in Mt. 
Pleasant township, and passed his youth on the 
old home place, receiving his education in the log 
schoolhouse of the day. In December, 1834, he 
was married to Martha V. Stevenson, who was 
born in 1813, daughter of James Stevenson, of 
Smith township, this county. James Stevenson 



was a native of Washington county, and was here 
married to Jane Vance, who bore him children as 
follows: Ann (Mrs. Alexander Hays), John S., 
Elizabeth (Mrs. S. J. Ghist), Mary (wife of Patter- 
son Vance), Martha V. (married to James Rankin). 
Joseph, Edgar, and Rachel J. (wife of John B. 
Phillis). Mr. Stevenson followed the vocation of 
a miller, afterward opening a carding mill, and 
was also engaged in the undertaking business. 
He was first a Democrat in politics, then became a 
Whig, afterward uniting with the Republican 
party. He was formerly a member of the Raccoon 
Presbyterian Church, and when the Burgettstown 
Church was organized, became a regular attend- 
ant thereof. 

James and Martha (Stevenson) Rankin first set- 
tled on a farm in Mt. Pleasant township, this 
county, and in 186S moved to an adjoining place, 
coming to Burgettstown in 1884. They had the 
following children: Samuel N. (who enlisted in 
Company D, Twenty eighth N. Y. Regiment, 
serving three months, then in 1863 entered the 
secret service under Gen. Banks, and was missing 
while en route to Richmond); James E., living in 
Mt. Pleasant township; Jane E.. Mrs. John P. 
Campbell; William Ray, who was drowned in 
1846; John O., living in Baker City, Oregon; Jo- 
seph Vance, living in Wichita, Kaus. ; arid Anna 
M. James Rankin was a popular and enterpris- 
ing citizen, having won success by his own exer- 
tions. He was a warm friend of educational prog- 
ress, and in religion was a member of the Mt. 
Prospect Presbyterian Church, of which he was a 
ruling elder for twenty-eight years. He died July 
27, 1887, at Burgettstown, this county, where his 
widow is yet living. He was a justice of the peace 
for many years. 



<? 



Mi RS. MARGARET HOOD is the widow of 
James Hood, who was born October 23, 
1805, in Allegheny county, Penn., son of 
John Hood, a native of Ireland. James 
Hood was educated in the old-fashioned 
log schoolhouse of those days, and began to learn 
the trade of a tanner at an early age, but owing to 
failing health was compelled to abandon that busi- 
ness. On June 26, 1834, he was married to Mar- 
garet Burns, who was born November 23, 1814, in 
Allegheny county, Penn., daughter of John and 
Jane (Crooks) Burns. The children born to James 
and Margaret Hood were as follows: Jane, Mary, 
Nancy (who first married Samuel Ackleson, and is 
now the widow of Thomas Ramsey), Catherine 
(willow of William Moreland), John (a farmer of 
Hanover township), William (a farmer of Hanover 
township), Annie (now Mrs. William Banford, of 
Robinson township), James, Amanda, and Geor^-' 
B. (farming on the home place). Of these chil 



WASHING TOX COUX T Y. 



1417 



dren Jane, Mary, James and Amanda are deceased. 
After his marriage James Hood worked for some 
time at his trade, and then located on the farm 
near Murdocksville, Hanover township, this county, 
where he successfully followed agricultural pur- 
suits until his death, which occurred July 13, 1866. 
He was buried in the Hopewell Church cemetery, 
Allegheny county, Penn. Mr. Hood was one of 
the leading members of the Hopewell Church, 
serving as an elder for some time. He was a pros- 
perous and influential citizen. Since the death of 
her husband, Mrs. Hood has resided on the home 
place, surrounded by many friends, who hold her 
in the highest esteem. She is remarkably well 
preserved for a lady of her age. She has been a 
member of Hebron Church for thirty years. 



If If IRAM RABE. Among the most extensive 
f "J stock-dealers and wealthy agriculturists of 
Carroll township, this gentleman is a very 
II prominent figure. He is a son of Jacob 

Rabe, an early farmer of Carroll township, 
Washington Co., Penn., who died when his son 
was yet a small child. 

Hiram Rabe was born on the old Rabe home- 
stead, and after the death of his father resided 
with his grandparents until arriving at mature age, 
when he began life as a farm laborer at S5 per 
month. When a young man he married Catherine 
Fredreck, a native of Clover Hill, Washington Co., 
Penn., and she bore him five children, namely: 
W. T., living at home; David G.. an agriculturist 
of Carroll township; James A., living with his 
father; Florence, now Mrs. Tucker, of Carroll 
township, and Anna M., married to a Mr. Black- 
enberger, of Monongahela. The mother of these 
children died January 29, 1876, and on April 4, 
1877, Hiram Rabe was married to Matilda Teagar- 
den, who was born in Ohio, daughter of William 
Teagarden. At the time of his first marriage Mr. 
Rabe had but $500, which he invested with such 
excellent judgment that he is now a wealthy man, 
having acquired his property solely by personal en- 
terprise and industry. He served at one time as 
grand juryman at Scranton, Penn., and was then 
complimented by the judge for his ability in giving 
decisions according to the evidence. He has trav- 
eled quite extensively throughout the West, hav- 
ing visited Chicago, St. Louis, and other principal 
cities. He owns 400 acres of land in Carroll town- 
ship, where he is now conducting an extensive 
stock farm, keeping an average of 100 head of 
cattle, and also owning valuable real estate in Mo- 
nongahela. Politically, he votes with the Repub- 
lican party, and has served as school director, 
supervisor, and in various other local offices. 




A. VAN SCYOC is a native of East Finley 
township, this county, having been born 
there November 24, 1853. He is a grand- 
son of Enoch Van Scyoc, who was born 
in eastern Pennsylvania, and came to' 
Washington county in an early day, when the 
country had few settlers. He located in Pleasant 
Grove, in East Finley township, becoming promi- 
nently identified with the early history of the 
county, and there reared his family, but in later 
years removed to Greene county, Penn., locating 
near Jacktown, where he died in 1864. 

Jesse M. Van Scyoc was born January 29, 1823, 
near the present village of Pleasant Grove, East 
Finley township, Washington Co., Penn., where 
he received very limited educational opportunities, 
and assisted his father on the home farm until 
some time after his marriage. In 1845 he was 
married to Mary Rogers, who was born March 31, 
1825, daughter of James Rogers, of Morris town- 
ship, Washington county, and to their union chil- 
dren were born as follows: Phoebe Sibylline, born 
June 18, 1846. died July 6, 1853; John A., born 
October 21, 1848, died July 19, 1853; Mary Eliz- 
abeth, born January 30, 1851 (wife of George 
Moring, a glass manufacturer, living in Muncie, 
Ind.); W. A.; Lavina H, born October 6, 1856 
(Mrs. B. F. Day, living in Bellaire, Ohio); James 
A., born August 13. 1859, died May 29, 1883; 
Mason V.. born July 26, 1862 (a carpenter of 
Washington, Penn.); and Isadore Etoy, born Jan- 
uary 9, 1866 (wife of Edward Reisher, a telegraph 
operator, living in Washington). Some time after 
his marriage Mr. Van Scyoc moved to a place near 
Prosperity, Morris township, this county, and con- 
ducted a gristmill several years. Afterward he 
embarked in mercantile business at Pleasant 
Grove, East Finley township, which he followed 
till 1876, then began farming on land which he 
afterward purchased, and several years later moved 
to Washington borough, same county, where he 
and his wife now live retired. 

W. A. Van Scyoc received a common-school ed- 
ucation, and began mercantile business in his 
father's store at Pleasant Grove, which vocation 
he followed several years. On November 30, 1876, 
he was united in marriage with Maggie A. Ryan, who 
was born December 7, 1860, daughter of Joseph 
Ryan, of East Finley township, and their children 
were as follows: Gertrude E., born October 17, 1877; 
Ora B., born September 23, 1880; Maud W., born 
November 2, 1882; Letcher D. , born March 8, 
1886; an infant son (deceased), born January 24, 
1889; and Vina Verbal, born January 24, 1890, 
all of whom remain at home. After his marriage 
Mr. Van Scyoc lived on and mauaged his father's 
farm several years; then, in 1881, he resumed 
mercantile business at Pleasant Grove, East Finley 



1418 



WASHINt 1 TON CO UN TY 



township, and disposing of that, in 1890 purchased 
the "Old Ryan farm," situated about one mile 
south of Pleasant Grove, where he yet resides, and 
where he successfully followed farming. He is a 
prominent member of the Republican party. He 
and his wife are members of the Baptist Church' 
at Pleasant Grove. 



[p^/ AMUEL LOGAN is a leading representa- 
tive of one of the oldest and most prominent 
f) families in Buffalo township. His grand- 
father, John Logan, was born and reared 
in Ireland, and there passed the earlier portion of 
his life. When well advanced in years, John 
Logan immigrated to America with his wife and 
the following children: Hugh, John, Samuel, 
James, William, Nancy and Jane. He landed in 
New York, and then came west to Buffalo town- 
ship, Washington Co., Penn., where he purchased, 
from one Williamson, 416 acres of land. It was 
then in a very rude state of cultivation, and Mr. 
Logan, with the aid of his sons, at once began the 
long and arduous task of clearing the pioneer farm. 
That his efforts were crowned with deserved suc- 
cess, is evident from the air of thrift and prosper- 
ity which surrounds that portion of the estate 
which is still in the possession of his descendants. 
Mr. Logan was au earnest Christian, and an hon- 
est and thrifty citizen — a grand specimen of pure 
and noble manhood. He died in 1819, and was 
laid to rest amid the sorrow of all who knew him. 
His children all lived to an adult age, but are now 
deceased. 

Samuel Logan (father of subject) was born in 
178C> in Ireland, and received a good education in 
the common schools of his native country. He was 
twenty-one years of age when he came with his 
father's family to America, and on the death of 
Mr. Logan, Samuel assumed the management of 
his portion of the estate, which he had assisted in 
clearing. His brother James learned and followed 
the blacksmith's trade in Ireland, and another 
brother, Hugh, learned and followed the weaver's 
trade, in the old country. After his father's death, 
Samuel was united in marriage with Mary, daugh- 
ter of James Lattimer, who was of Scottish birth, 
and a pioneer settler of Washington county. Be- 
ing a soldier in the Revolutionary war, he suffered 
all the hardships incident to military life; he died 
in 1845 in Perry county, Ohio. To the union of 
Mr. and Mrs. (Lattimer) Logan were born children 
as follows: Sarah Jane, Margaret, Mary and 
Samuel. Of this family Mary and Samuel are the 
only living children. Mr. Logan added many im- 
provements to the home farm before his death. 

Samuel Logan was born October 29, 18 — , on the 
farm in Buffalo township which is yet in his posses- 
sion. He attended the subscription schools, and 



succeeded in obtaining a good education. Hisearly 
youth was passed on the home farm, and in 1854 
he was united in marriage with Sarah Ann, 
daughter of James Byers, and to their union the 
following children have been born: Mary (wife of 
Nelson Doak, of Buffalo township), William (liv- 
ing in Sugar Hill, Franklin Co., Peun.), Anna 
(wife of Jacob Weirich, a prominent agriculturist of 
Buffalo townshij). this county), Eva (Mrs. Boyd 
McCoy, living in South Strabane township, Wash- 
ington county). James (residing with his father on 
the old homestead), Rebecca, Nettie Olive, Bertha, 
Maud and Herbert, also living at home. Mr. Lo- 
gan's farm consists of 100 acres of fine land, lying 
in the center of a prosperous and enterprising 
community, and he devotes his time to its cultiva- 
tion, and to stock raising. In political opinion he is 
a Republican, and, although not an active politi- 
cian, he is much interested in the welfare of his 
party. His family are members of the United 
Presbyterian Church, and he is highly respected 
by the community in which he resides. 



EILLIS JONES is one of the most genial, 
popular and eminently successful agricult- 
urists of Independence township. He is a 
grandson of Charles Jones, who was born 
east of the mountains, where he married, and 
reared a family of six children. Little is known 
of his life. 

Charles Jones (a son of Charles) was born in 
1774, in an eastern State, and in early life came 
to Brooke county, W. Va. , where he followed 
farming and distilling, a practice then much in 
vogue among farmers. He was married in West 
Virginia to Keziah Cole, who was born in 1802 in 
Donegal township, Washington Co., Peun., and 
she bore him the following children: Susan (de- 
ceased wife of John Null, of Marshall county, W. 
Va.), Hannah (widow of Thomas McQuerry, of 
Marshall county, W. Va.), David, George, Barnet, 
Ellis, Charles and William. Of these Susan, 
David, George, Charles and William are deceased. 
Mr. and Mrs. Jones resided in Brooke county, W. 
Va., for some time after their marriage, finally 
removing to Independence township, Washington 
Co., Penn., and locating permanently on the home 
farm, lying about one mile northeast of Dunsfort. 
He was a very successful farmer and stock raiser. 
In politics he was a Whig. He died June 7, 1N47, 
being followed by his wife in 1875; both were 
consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church. 

Ellis Jones was born August 9, 1820, on the 
home farm in Independence township, and re- 
ceived a country-school education. On October 
14, 1864, he was united in marriage with Keziah 
McLaiu, who was born in 1832, in Donegal town- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1419 



ship, this county. Their children are Charles L. , 
Virginia B. , Stewart M., Ellis N. and Bertha Lee, 
all living at home. Ellis Jones has always resided 
on the old place, from which he has never been 
absent more than two months at a time. He is 
kind-hearted and generous, ever ready to aid those 
meriting assistance, and never allowing a man to 
go hungry from his door. In public life he is 
enterprising and progressive, willing to assist in 
furthering any movement tending to benefit the 
community; he casts his ballot with the Demo- 
cratic party, and has filled various township offices. 
His success in life is due to energy and good 
management. He and his wife are consistent 
members of the Mt. Zion United Brethren Church. 



l[OHN W. BERRYMAN, senior member of the 
well-known grocery firm, J. W. Berryman & 
r" II Son, in Coal Centre, was born February 2, 
^^ 1837, near Elizabeth, Allegheny Co., Penn., 
a son of Duncan Berryman, and a grandson 
of John Berryman, both of whom were natives of 
New York, where the grandfather died. Duncan 
Berryman was born and reared in New York, and 
coming to Allegheny county, Penn., when a young 
man, was there married to Sarah Grimes, daugh- 
ter of William Grimes, of Elizabeth, that county. 
After his marriage Mr. Berryman followed ship 
building at Elizabeth for several years. 

John W. Berryman, whose name introduces this 
biographical sketch, received a liberal education, 
and passed his youth in East Pike Run township, 
this county. He began business life by running a 
ferry at Allenport, a vocation he followed for some 
years. In 1876 he came to Coal Centre, where he 
successfully carried on a meat market until 1887, 
in which year he entered into partnership with a 
Mr. Gleason in the grocery trade. In 1888 he 
purchased the entire business, which he and his 
son John D. have since successfully conducted. 
Father and son are active, energetic businessmen, 
and by close attention to the wants of their 
patrons have widened their custom and enlarged 
their store, which is now one of the most 
extensive establishments of the kind in the locality. 

On November 5, 1861, our subject was united in 
marriage with Annie Hanse, daughter of Joseph 
Hause, an J their children were: Ella (deceased), 
William I. (an attorney), John D. (living in Coal 
Centre), and Georgia (deceased). Politically Mr. 
Berryman is a Democrat. 



l^ILLIAM M. BELL, a progressive farmer 
of Cecil township, is a native of the same, 
born in 1823, a grandson of John and 
Mary Bell, natives of eastern Pennsylva- 
nia, who came to Washington county and to Cecil 



township at an early day, buying three farms, one 
of which was in Peters township. The grandfather 
after coming to this county passed his life in Cecil 
township. He was a Revolutionary soldier. 

John Bell, a son of the above-mentioned couple, 
was born in Virginia, and coming with his parents 
to Washington county was reared and educated in 
Cecil township. In early life he was married to 
Mary Hall, a native of Chartiers township, this 
county, and they settled on a farm in Cecil town- 
ship, where eight children were born to them, of 
whom William M. is the only one yet living. The 
father was an active worker in the Whig party, and 
a stanch supporter of W. H. Harrison. In religion 
Mr. and Mrs. Bell were members of the Presby- 
terian Church at Miller's Run, of which he was a 
ruling elder. He died about the year 1854, in his 
eighty-fourth year, followed by his widow in 1876, 
she being then ninety-three years of age. 

William M. Bell, the subject of these lines, was 
born on the farm adjoining his present home, and 
was educated in the subscription schools of Cecil 
township, in the same district where he is now liv- 
ing, and where he has devoted his attention to 
farming and carpentry. In 1846 he married Miss 
Roxanna Smith, a native of Westmoreland county, 
Penn. , and the young couple began married life on 
the farm where they are yet residing, and which 
comprises 103 acres of well-cultivated and fertile 
land. Twelve children blessed their union — seven 
daughters and five sons — six of whom are now liv- 
ing, namely: J. S. , Charlie, Florence, Georgie, 
Leonora and Alexander; two of the sons and two 
of the daughters are married. In politics Mr. Bell 
is a pronounced Republican. 





ADAM WEIR (deceased), who in his life- 
time was one of the well-known, represent- 
ative, native-born citizens of Franklin 
township, first saw the light May 27, 1801, 
on the old family home place, known as the 
" Stephen Post farm." 

He was a son of Samuel Weir, who was brought 
by his parents when a young child from Scotland 
to America, the family making a final settlement 
in Washington county, Penn., some locating near 
Pigeon creek, while others made a settlement near 
Van Buren. Samuel was here married to Mar- 
garet, daughter of John Clark, and they then 
settled on the Stephen Post farm, where they 
passed the remainder of their days. The names 
of the children born to them are Joseph, Adam, 
Thomas, Jane, Mary, Elizabeth, Rachel and Sarah 
(the latter married to a Mr. Rettig), all now de- 
ceased. Mr. Weir was a lifelong farmer, eminently 
successful in his vocation. For many years he 
was a consistent Presbyterian, in which faith he 
died; in politics he was an active Democrat. 



1420 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Adam Weir passed his boyhood and youth in 
working on the farm, and attended, during the 
winter months, the subscription schools of the 
neighborhood. On December 1. 1825, he was 
united in marriage with Sarah Carter, who bore 
him the following named children: Margaret (who 
died in Washington county), Jane (deceased), 
William (in Franklin township) and Henry B. 
This wife dying, Mr. Weir was afterward, on May 
19, 1836, united in marriage with Phosbe Tucker, 
and the children by that union were Samuel H. 
(deceased), John N. (in Franklin township), Sarah 
I wife of Frank Gabby) and Phcebe D. On May 14, 
1850, Mr. Weir was again married, this time to 
Mrs. Cynthia Kane, daughter of Mathias Minton, 
and widow of C. C. Kane, and one son was born 
to them — Adam, Jr., of whom special mention is 
made further on — and one daughter — Lell, in 
Pittsburgh. Adam Weir, Sr., came in 1840 to the 
present residence of his widow and youngest son, 
and made many improvements thereon. At his 
death he was the owner of a large farm, the ac- 
cumulation of a lifetime of hard work. He was an 
active and liberal supporter of the Presbyterian 
Church and all public enterprises, and was uni- 
versally respected. Mr. Weir died July 15, 1866, 
and is buried at Prosperity. 

Adam Weir, Jr., son of Adam, Sr., and Cynthia 
Weir, was born October 21, 1851, was educated at 
the common schools of the home neighborhood, 
and was reared to agricultural pursuits. He had 
to commence work early in life, and with true filial 
devotion has remaiued with his mother, having 
charge of the farm, which comprises 300 acres of 
prime land. He has for several years dealt ex- 
tensively in live stock of all kinds, and is recog- 
nized as a thorough-going young business man, 
and has a wide acquaintance and a multitude of 
friends. On September 18, 1879, he was married 
to Ella, daughter of Thomas Hanna, of Morris 
township, and their children were Thomas A. (de- 
ceased in infancy), and Helen, Flora H, Fannie 
M. and Mary C. , all yet living under the paternal 
roof. Mr. Weir is a stanch Democrat, and has 
served as school director of his district. He and 
his wife are members of the Ten -Mile Presbyterian 
Church. 



I/SAAC N. LYTLE was born December 26, 
1849, and is a son of Benjamin, who was a son 
[ of Joseph, who was a Bon of Robert Lytle, a 
— record of whom appears on page 953, this 
volume. 

Joseph Lytle was born in 1790, on the home 
farm in Allegheny county, Penn., where his youth 
was passed. He was married to Margaret Murphy, 
of Washington county, and they resided several 
years in Mercer county, Penn.. but finally returned 



to the old homestead in Allegheny county. Joseph 
died, leaving five children, viz.: Benjamin, Anne, 
Sarah. Isaac and Mary, of whom Isaac is the only 
survivor. 

Benjamin Lytle, son of Joseph and Margaret 
(Murphy) Lytle, was born October 25, 1810, in 
Beaver county, Penn., but passed his early life in 
Gastonville, Washington county. In early youth 
be was apprenticed to Benjamin Higbee to learn the 
trade of cooper, commencing business for himself 
in 1831. In 1838 he married Miss Arsula McFar- 
land, of Peters township, Washington county, 
who bore him the following children: W. G., 
Mary J., Joseph F., Josephine M. , Isaac N. , Anna 
L., James E., John H. and Maggie T. Mr. Lytle 
continued to follow his trade until 1851, when he 
bought a farm, moving upon it in 1852, and re- 
mained there until 1875. During this interval be 
purchased two other small farms, the three places 
containing about 140 acres. In 1875 he built a 
storeroom and dwelling in Gastonville, this 
county, and, taking up his abode in the village, 
opened a real estate office. He was an active 
worker in the Democratic party and held many 
township offices; in religion he was a member of 
the Baptist Church, in which he served as deacon. 
He died June 14, 1887. 



AMUEL G. SKILES. This progressive 
and enterprising citizen of Chartiers town- 
ship, one of the most extensive and best- 
known dairymen of Washington county, 
deserves prominent place in this work. 

He is a grandson of Gideon and Jane Skiles, 
early residents of Lancaster county, Penn., who 
came to Washington county about the year 1822, 
where they passed the remainder of their pioneer 
lives. Samuel Skiles, their sou, was born July 25, 
1810, on the old home farm in Lancaster county, 
and was, as will be seen, about twelve years of age 
when he came with his parents to this county. At 
the age of sixteen, he hired to drive a team, which 
business he continued to follow, handling freight 
to and from Pittsburgh, and afterward from Pitts- 
burgh to Philadelphia and Baltimore. In 1840 he 
was united in marriage with Sarah Guthrie, who 
was born July 5, 1820, and eight children were 
born to this union, viz. : Jane (deceased wife of 
John W. Gaston), Isaac L. (married to Miss 
Sydney Armstrong), Margaret Ann (deceased wife 
of Moses Ross), Belle (deceased wife of Joseph 
Kerr), Sarah Nancy (Mrs. Amos Anderson), Samuel 
G., George M. (married to Nancy Willard) and 
Agnes R. (deceased). The mother of these chil- 
dren died April 2, 1861, and on April 25, 1865, the 
father was married to Margaret Ann Watkins. 
He died May 6, 1888, a member of the Associate 
Reformed Church. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY, 



1423 






AMES WILSON, Sr., was born in Ireland, 
date of birth and emigration to America not 
it beiug known. He left Burnt Cabins, Bed- 
^^ ford Co.,Penn., about 1780, and settled four 
miles east of the town on what is now the 
National road. Coming, later, to the town of 
Washington, he purchased original lot No. 291 
(which is to-day the site of Smith's store, corner 
of Beau and Main streets), erected a log house 
thereon, and opened a tavern, under license granted 
by the first court held in the countv, October 3, 
1781. 

Some time later he purchased the certificate to 
lot No. 21, original town, on the east side of 
Main street, where the " Morgan block" now 
stands, deeding this new purchase to his son, 
Hugh, August 15, 1786, and in 1792 conveyed to 
him the certificate, and made the title perfect in 
him. The house erected on lot No. 21 was the 
great hall of the town, where meetings and enter- 
tainments were held, until Dr. John Julius Le- 
Moyne opened his drug store therein; subsequent- 
ly, until 1815, Mrs. Baker conducted a "Female 
Seminary " within its walls. James Wilson, Sr., 
resided in his pioneer house (corner of Main and 
Beau streets) until his death in 1792. He be- 
queathed that property, with 200 acres adjoining 
the town, to his widow, Margaret Wilson, for her 
use until James, their youngest son, should be- 
come of age, when it was to be equally partitioned 
between John, Thomas and James Wilson. Hugh, 
having previously received a liberal endowment in 
improved and vacant property in and near the 
town, was not named in the will; subsequently, 
however, he acquired title to the pioneer house 



Samuel G. Skiles, the subject of this sketch, 
was born May 3, 1852, near Bower Hill, Peters 
township, Washington Co., Penn. He resided on 
the farm during his early life, and attended the com- I 
mon schools. On September 12, 1877, he married 
Emma Agues McGibboney, born March 0, 1855, in 
Nottingham township, Washington Co., Penn., near 
Munntown, daughter of George and Rachel McGib- 
boney, and the following children have been born 
to them: Rachel Agnes, Samuel McGibboney (de- 
ceased in early childhood), Flora Jane, Sarah 
Nancy, W'illiam Lytle (deceased), Mary Margaret, 
James Glenn and Georgia Alice. Mr. Skiles lias 
taken an active interest in school and local affairs. 
His farm contains 130 acres of fertile, well culti- 
vated land, where he pays special attention to the 
dairying business. At present he has a fine herd 
of Holsteins, and he is engaged in breeding that 
far-famed variety of cattle. The milk from his 
cows he ships to the Pittsburgh market. In relig- 
ious faith he and his family are all members of the 
United Presbyterian Church. 



(above referred to), from his youngest brother, 
James, and was owner for a long period. Hugh 
was well known as a business man, and he acquired 
quite a large amount of property in and near the 
town. 

Hugh Wilson was married August 18, 1788, to 
Rachel Leet, daughter of Isaac Leet, and sister to 
Maj. Daniel Leet, to which marriage four chil- 
dren were born: Rebecca, Margaret, Rachel and 
Hugh W. Mrs. Rachel Wilson died February 
14, 1818, and Mr. Wilson married Mrs. Margaret 
Fleming, widow of Jeremiah Fleming, to whom 
she had been married at Newtown- Limavady, 
Ireland, and after whose death she emigrated to 
Pennsylvania with her daughter Catherine, to 
make her home near her sisters, Mrs. Robert Ham- 
ilton and Mrs. Patterson, who had located at 
Washington, Penn., some years before. This 
daughter, Catherine, married John B. McFadden, 
a silversmith of Washington, and moved with him 
to Pittsburgh; her daughter, Ann, married Gen. 
Alexander Hays, a brave officer in the Mexican 
and Civil wars. To the marriage of Hugh 
Wilson and Mrs. Margaret Fleming one daugh- 
ter was born, Eliza, married to Rev. Thomas 
Swaim, who was pastor of the Baptist Church at 
Washington from 1846 to 1850. On the death 
of Mrs. Margaret Wilson, Mr. Wilson married 
Eliza Spencer, a native of England, who survived 
her husband many years, dying without issue. 

In 1786 Hugh Wilson became the owner of the 
lot now occupied by the "Watson Building,'' by 
donation from his father, and carried on business 
there for many years. He died April 13, 1832. 
Of his children by Rachel Leet, Rebecca mar- 
ried James Blaine, who in 1809 opened a dry- 
goods store next to the house of Hugh Wilson, 
and a few years later they occupied the stone 
building inherited by his wife, Rebecca, from her 
father, and erected by David Bradford, of Whis- 
key Insurrection fame, in which they resided until 
death removed them from the pioneer circle. Mr. 
Blaine was a member of the town council in 1816, 
burgess in 1818-22 and again in 1S39, and jus- 
tice in IN 17, 1841 1 and 1845. Margaret Wilson 
married John, sou of Col. James Marshel (her 
husband was elected sheriff in 1835, but resigned 
to become cashier of the Franklin Bank (now the 
First National) before the close of his term. In 
1857 he retired from banking, and ended his days 
at his residence near Washington). Rachel mar- 
ried Richard W. Harding, and in 1S82 was resid- 
ing at Bethlehem, Penn., with her son, who is 
professor of natural science in Lehigh University 
(her eldest daughter is Mrs. Rebecca Harding 
Davis, the authoress); Mrs. Harding died in 1884, 
at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Davis, in Phil- 
adelphia. 

Hugh W. Wilson, fourth child of Hugh Wilson, 



1424 



WASHINGTON COUX TV. 



was born in Washington, Penn., February 22, 
1 S 1 2 , grew to manhood there, and ultimately set- 
tled on the farm which his grandfather had pur- 
chased in South Strabane township. His mar- 
riage with Frances Emma Barlow, daughter of 
Thomas and Frances Anica (Preble) Barlow (and 
niece of Commodore Preble), of Allegheny county, 
took place April 25, 1837, and to this union came 
the following named children: Edward Preble, 
born April 25, 1838, now residing at Cincinnati, 
Ohio; James B., born November 25, 1839, now- 
residing on the farm in South Strabane township, 
which was the property of his great-grandfather, 
and occupying the house erected thereon by his 
grandfather; Clara, who married A. T. Baird, a 
sketch of whom appears in this biographical rec- 
ord, and Frances Emma, who died in infancy. 
Mrs. Frances E. Wilson died February 12, 1845, 
in her twenty-seventh year, and Mr. Wilson was 
remarried September 9, 1847, this time to Sarah 
Neville, a niece of Gen. Neville. She died Sep- 
tember 30, 185G, leaving two children: Neville 
Craig, born October 30, 1850, died January 1, 
1887, and Rebecca Blaine, born September 12, 
L853, .lied February 18, 1879. Hugh W. Wilson 
died May 13. 1861, in his forty-ninth year. From 
his youth he was a farmer until the closing years 
of his life, when he devoted his principal attention 
to fruit growing, and, later, to floriculture. His 
sudden death was caused by internal rupture pro- 
duced by rapid walking. Thomas Barlow, his 
father-in-law, was the secretary of his uncle, Joel 
Barlow, who was U. S. minister to France during 
the Napoleonic wars, and while in Russia during 
the campaign witnessed the burning of Moscow, 
and the terrible scenes following Napoleon's de- 
feat: he buried his uncle, Joel, at Cracow, Poland, 
where he died from the effects of the excessive 
cold. 

The Leet family, into which Hugh Wilson mar- 
ried, date their origin in America to 1685, when 
the grandfather of Isaac Leet left Mansfield, 
England, and found a home in the New Jersey 
colony. In 1751 Isaac Leet removed from New 
Jersey to Virginia, and found his way to Washing- 
ton county, Penn., in 1779. following his son 
Daniel, who came in 1770. To Isaac and Rebecca 
Leet children as follows were born: Daniel, Rachel 
(who married Hugh Wilson), Jonathan (who mar- 
ried Mary, a (laughter of Dr. Thomas Moore, and 
died in South Strabane township), Isaac (who died 
in Canton township), Elizabeth, Rebecca I who 
married Enoch Dyp) and two or three others. He 
located Hoi acres of land, under a Virginia certifi- 
cate, which was surveyed January •'>. 1807, and 
named " Left's Fancy." The father of this 
family died there, and was buried where now is the 
Weirich cemetery. Jonathan Leet was the father 
of six children, one of whom was Isaac Leet. a 



prominent attorney, who was State senator in 
1834, and later a member of Congress until his 
death in 1844. He married Margaret Swearingen 
Cook, daughter of John Cook and granddaughter 
of Andrew Swearingen. Mary, a daughter of 
Isaac and Margaret Leet, is the wife of James B. 
Wilson, grandson of Hugh Wilson. Maj. Daniel 
Leet was born near Bordentown, N. J., November 
6, 1748. He was commissioned surveyor of Au- 
gusta county, Va., April 17, 1770. He served in the 
Revolution as quartermaster and paymster, and on 
September 21, 1778, was promoted to the rank of 
brigade major. During and after the Revolution 
he was a leader of men. At Crawford's defeat he 
did not act as brigade major, but as the second in 
command, having been elected to the position by 
the volunteer force. He stood high in his profession 
of surveyor, acting as one of the commission in 
fixing the county seat of Washington county, and 
districting it into townships; serving as deputy 
surveyor before the western line of the Common- 
wealth was established; making the survej of the 
Second District of the Depreciation lands; making 
the survey within the reserved tract where Alle- 
gheny is located; laying out and surveying the 
other reserved tract at the mouth of the Beaver 
river, etc. He was made justice of the peace and ex 
officio associate judge when the county was erected, 
and was a representative in the General Assembly 
in 1791 and in 1792. 



HARLES A. BAILEY, one of the well-known 

citizens of Washington, while not long a 

resident of the county, has, since making his 

home here, been actively indentified with 

the hotel interests of the city of his adoption. 

He was born in Cattaraugus county, N. Y., in 
1S44, of New England ancestry, his father, James 
Bailey, having been a native of Massachusetts, a 
man in his earlier days skilled in various lines of 
business. In later life, however, becoming con- 
vinced that to be truly successful a man should 
have a single and distinguishing occupation, he dis- 
posed of his various interests, and thence forth de- 
voted himself exclusively to farming in Erie county, 
Penn., where he died in 1S50. In Massachusetts 
he was married to Miss Amelia Alcott (whose 
brother was a writer of considerable note), a cousin 
of Louise M. Alcott, whose "Little Men and Lit- 
tle Women" has given her a national reputation. 
By this union there were five children, only two of 
whom are now living — our subject and one sister, 
the former of whom was but four years old when 
his mother died in Erie county, Penn., whither the 
family had removed the previous year. The father 
married again, and by this second union there is 
one child, Frank H., who early in life evinced nat- 
ural mechanical tastes, and in course of time be- 



WASHING TON COUN TY 



1425 



came proficient iu mechanical drafting. He now 
In ilds the position of past assistant engineer 
U. S. N., in the Army and Navy building, at Wash- 
ington, D. C. He is a graduate of Annapolis Naval 
Academy, which he had entered as a cadet engi- 
neer. The father died when our subject was six 
years of age. 

Charles A. Bailey passed his boyhood in New 
York until the age of fifteen years, when he re- 
turned to Pennsylvania and took up his residence 
in Titusville, devoting his time to the restaurant 
business through the oil regions until 1880, in 
which year he removed to Washington, Penn. 
Here for five years he conducted the " European 
Hotel," now known as the "Allison House.'' Some 
time after coming to Washington and engaging in 
business, he formed a partnership with S. B. Mc- 
Kennan, which has since continued. The old 
"Pulton House" was leased by Mr. Bailey, and 
for a time he conducted it as the leading hotel of 
the place; but proving unprofitable as a hostelry, 
it was converted into an apartment house, and so 
continued until January 5, 1893, when, having 
been thoroughly renovated, it was reopened to the 
public as a first-class house, the name "Hotel 
Main" being given it by the courteous and wide- 
awake proprietor, Charles A. Bailey, who conducts 
it in a thoroughly efficient manner. 

In 18fi4, in Crawford county, Penn., Mr. Bailey 
was married to Miss Mary E. , daughter of E. D. 
Gillett, of that county. No children have been 
born to them, but in 1882 they adoped a four-year- 
old child, from that time known as Gertie Badey. 
In November, 1892, after an illness of some six 
weeks, she died, aged fourteen years. Mr. Bailey 
is a member of the Masonic Fraternity, and he has 
surrounded himself with a host of friends. He is 
a great lover of animals, especially " man's unsel- 
fish friend " — the dog. 



If ¥f J. GAMBLE, M. D., one of the leading 

K— 1 and most successful physicians of Washing- 
ton county, is a native of Allegheny county, 

JJ — Penn., born in Elizabeth township Janu- 
v ary 9, 1S46. Samuel Gamble, his great- 

grandfather, was born in Ennittkillen, Ireland, 
March 17, 1702, and in an early day came to 
America, settling in Payette county, Penn. He 

was married twice, first to Prudence , by 

whom he had twelve children. He afterward mar- 
ried Elizabeth Patton, by whom he had two chil- 
dren, viz. : Rebecca Lyon, born 1781, and John. 
John Gamble, the youngest son of Samuel, was 
born in Fayette county, Penn., May 9, 1783, and 
for many years was a prominent school teacher in 
his section. On March 15, 1808, he married Mary, 
daughter of Hezekiah and Mary (Brant) Douthitt. 



John Gamble moved to Westmoreland count v, 
Penn., and conducted a general store and a hotel 
at West Newton until 1817, when he proceeded 
to Allegheny county and purchased a large tract 
of land in Elizabeth township, all of which is still 
in the possession of his descendants. He died 
November 7, 1875, his wife having preceded him 
to the grave March 27, 1848. Mr. Gamble was a 
member of the Round Hill Presbyterian Church, 
of which he had been an elder many years. Polit- 
ically, his sympathies were with the Democratic 
party, and for a long time he served as a justice of 
the peace in Allegheny county. He was gifted 
naturally with a mind clear on legal points — in 
law and equity — and was looked up to as the gen- 
eral adviser of the community among whom he 
might be living. 

Samuel H. Gamble, father of subject, was born 
in Westmoreland county, Penn., February 8, 1812, 
and received a liberal education at the subscription 
schools of the district during the winter months, 
the rest of the year being devoted to laboring on 
the farm. On October 30, 1832, he was married 
to Margaret J., daughter of John Irwin, of whom 
special mention will be made further on. After 
marriage Mr. and Mrs. Samuel H. Gamble settled 
on a farm in Elizabeth township, Allegheny 
county, where he died July 14, 1879 (the mother 
is still living). He was a member and substantial 
supporter of the Round Hill Presbyterian Church, 
and in politics he was a Democrat until the break- 
ing out of the war of the Rebellion, when he be- 
came a Republican. He was an active and pro- 
gressive self-made man. Six children were born 
to him, as follows: Sarah Ann, who married 
Caleb Edmundson (they reside on their farm in 
Forward township, Allegheny county); Harriet, 
married to John Bridenthall (he and wife resided 
in McKeesport ; Mrs. Bridenthall died 1869); Oliver 
Perry, a farmer and merchant at Independence, 
Kans. (he married Harriet Hetfey); John H. (sub- 
ject); Rebecca Jane, married to William Hayden, 
a farmer and dairyman near McKeesport; James 
Harvey, a farmer and dairyman of Forward town- 
ship, Allegheny county, residing on the old farm 
(he married Margaret McKinney). 

Dr. Gamble's maternal great-grandfather, John 
Irwin, was born in Pennsylvania, was an agricult- 
urist and died }n his farm in Allegheny county. 
He married Margaret Fulton, of that county, a 
Covenanter who came to Westmoreland county 
with her parents when she was nine years old. 
After her husband's death, she moved to Washing- 
ton county and settled on her farm. The home 
farm in Allegheny county is now owned by Will- 
iam Irwin. To John and Margaret (Fulton) Irwin 
were born children as follows: Martha, Margaret, 
Polly, Susan, Henry and John. Of these John 
was born in Westmoreland county, Penn., and was 



1426 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



married to Sarah La Fever, a native of Allegheny 
county. Penn., and daughter of Minard (a cooper) 
and Charity Elinor La Fever, French Huguenots, 
and early settlers of Allegheny county. John and 
Sarah (La Fever) Irwin settled on the homestead 
of lii-. mother in Forward township, where he car- 
ried on farming operations. They had ten chil- 
dren. Mr. Irwin, for his second wife, married 
Ann McConuell. by whom he had six children. 
Mr. Irwin served in both the war of 1812 and the 
Black Hawk war. He was a member of the United 
Presbyterian Church, and in political affiliations 
was first a Whig, afterward a Republican. 

H. J. Gamble was reared in his native county, 
and at the common schools of the neighborhood of 
his boyhood home received a liberal education. At 
the age of seventeen he enlisted in Company G, 
Twenty-second Pennsylvania Cavalry, which wae 
assigned to the army of West Virginia, participat- 
in the Shenandoah campaign, and during the lat- 
ter part of their service they were with Sheridan. 
At the close of the war our subject received an 
honorable discharge and returned home. In 18 — 
he entered the academy at Monongahela, where he 
remained some time, then attended the Normal 
School at Edinboro, Erie Co. , Penn., and, after- 
ward the Northwestern University at Evanston, 
111. Having now completed his education, in turn 
he became an educator, and for some time taught 
school in various parts of the States of Illinois and 
Kansas. In 1870 he entered the office of James 
C. Gamble, M. D. , in Lawrence, Ivans., where 
he remained some three years, reading med- 
icine, at the end of which time he attended the 
Homeopathic Medical College, of Missouri, in St. 
Louis, from which he was graduated in 1874. Dr. 
Gamble commenced the practice of his chosen pro- 
fession at Lawrence, Kans., remaining there one 
year, after which he practiced a year in Wilkins- 
burg, Allegheny Co., Penn., and then in 1 870 came 
to Monongahela. 

On May 11, 1876, Dr. H. J. Gamble was mar- 
ried to Alary J., daughter of John Reynolds, and 
si\ children blessed their union, viz. : Harvey R., 
Robert R., Charles O. (deceased), Harold, and 
Margaret (deceased) and Mary (twins). Dr. and 
Mrs. Gamble are members of the Presbyterian 
Church; in politics he is an active Republican, 
and was nominated for Congress by the Prohibi- 
tion party in 18S8. In that year he was appointed 
supreme medical examiner of the Equitable Aid 
Union, and he has held various local offices of 
trust. Dr. Gamble is a progressive and energetic 
citizen, and takes an active interest in anything 
that is beneficial to his city. In 1886 he erected 
Gamble's Opera House. He is one of the leading 
educators of the county, and takes advanced ground 
on all educational questions. 



Irwin Family. 

(a) John Irwin married Margaret Fulton, and 
had children as follows: (b) — Martha, Margaret, 
Polly, Susan, Henry and John. Of these (b) Martha 
married Martin Adams, and had four children; (b) 
Polly married Abel Finley, and had children: (c) — 
David, James, Martha, Mary and Margaret ; (b) 
Susan married Robert Douglas, and had children: 
(c) — John, Robert, Presley, William, Margaret and 
Isabel; (b) Henry married Katherine Johnston, and 
had children: (c) — Margaret Ann, Sydney, John, 
Hetty Elinor and Martha. 

(b) John Irwin was twice married, first time 
to Sarah La Fever, and had children: (c) — Harriet, 
Margaret Jane, John Brady, Joseph La Fever, 
Charity Elinor, Mary Catherine, Rebecca Ann, 
Martha Ann, Henry Fulton and Susanna. Of these 
(c) Harriet married Hezekiah Douthitt Gamble 
(for children see Gamble family record further on); 
(c) Margaret Jane married Harvey Gamble (for 
children see Gamble family record further on); (c) 
John Brady married Martha Case, and had chil- 
dren as follows: (d) — John (deceased), Nancy Diana 
(married Fantley Ball and had one child, (e) Myr- 
tle), Rosella (married Frank York, and had two 
children), Joseph, Henry and Mary (all three de- 
ceased), Daniel Risher, William Douthitt, Sarah 
Mary and James Gamble (last named deceased); 
(c) Joseph La Fever married Jane Westbay Finley, 
and had one child: (d) — Harvey Austin (married 
Mary Torrence, and had one child, (e) Harry 
Lowry); (c) Mary Catherine married (first) Thomas 
Clark, and by him had children: (d) — Zwingle, 
Margaret Ann (married to Lorenzo Wilgus, and 
had one child, (e) Olive C); Mary Catherine mar- 
ried (second) Thomas Penney, and by him had 
children: Duane, Olive Jane (married to William 
Smith, and had children: (e) — Duane Penney, Maud 
W. and Nellie); (c) Martha Ann married Sinclair 
Edmundson and J. Ralston, and her children were: 
(d) — Presley S. Edmundson (married Sarah Jane 
Spikier, and had children: (e) — Ann Gertrude and 
Kate), William Orlando Edmundson; Harvey Gam- 
ble Edmundson (married Alice Straight, and had 
children: (e) — Clara Jessie, V. Viola, Mary and 
Edna), Sarah Jane Edmundson, Finley Ellsworth 
Edmundson and Henry Burke Edmundson; (c) 
Henry Fulton married Eliza Peet, and had chil- 
dren: (d) — Evangeline, Myrtle Bell and Susan D.; 
(c) Susanna married Eli McLaughlin, and had 
children: (d) — Sarah. Margaret and James. 

(1)) Jnhn Irwin's second wife was Ann McCon- 
nell, and their children were (c) — Sarah Alice, Nancy 
Diana, Finley Douglas, Loressa, William Wilson 
and Amaretus. Of these Sarah Alice married 
Thomas Wilson and had children: (d) — Anna Bell, 
Susan Poe, Samuel Morrow, Loressa, Nora Tell 
and Irwin ; William Wilson married Nora McHenry, 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



] L27 



and hail children: (d) — Frank, Albeit, Harry, Anna 
Bell, John, Marion, Margaret and Harriet E. ; 
Arnaretus married John Wilson, and had children: 
(d) — Edward, Elizabeth, Clyde I., Herbert, Er- 
skine, Loressa M. , Elmer and one unnamed. 



La Fever Family. 
(a) Minard La Fever married Charity Elinor 
-, and had children: (b) — William, Isaac, 



John, Eliza, Rachel, Abram, James, Rebecca, 
Hannah, Katie, Sarah, Ann, Polly and Diana. Of 
these (b) William married Mary Price, and their 
children were: (c) — Price, Chambers, Irwin, John, 
Levi, Abram and Isaac; (b) Isaac married Sarah 

, and had children: (c) — Abner, William 

and Rebecca; (b) John married Harriet 



and had children: (c) — William and Curtis; (b) 
James married Elmira Peet, and had children: 
(c) — Mary, Ann, Rachel, Hannah, James and 
Thompson; (b) Rebecca married William Will- 
iams, and had children (c) — Vaughn, Mary, Ellen, 
Rachel and Eliza; (b) Hannah married George 
Stevens, and had children: (c) — Eliza, Thomas, 
Martha, Harrie and William: (b) Katie married 
William McConnell, and had children: (c) — Mary, 
John and Katie; (b) Sarah married John Irwin, 
and had ten children, as already enumerated; (b) 

Ann La Fever married — Kirkpatrick; (b) 

Polly married Cromwell; (b) Diana mar- 
ried Thompson Peet, and had children: (^—Char- 
ity Elinor, Melissa Ann, James Burke, Mary Han- 
nah, Maria Jane, Sarah Hepsah and Eliza Emily. 



Gamble Family. 

(a) Samuel Gamble, born March 17, 1702, mar- 
ried (first) Prudence - , and had children, 

their names and dates of birth being as follows: 
Martha, 1750; Jonas, 1751; Prudence, 1753; Da- 
vid, 1754; Jane, 1756; Esther, 175S; Aaron, 1760; 
James, 1764; Rebecca, 1765; Samuel, 1767; Mary. 
1770; Sarah, 1771. (a) Samuel Gamble married 
(second) Elizabeth Patten, and had children: 
(b) — Rebecca Lyon, born 1781. and John, born 1783. 

(b) John Gamble married Mary Douthitt (daugh- 
ter of Hezekiah and Mary (Brant) Douthitt), and 
their children were (c) — Hezekiah Douthitt, Eliz- 
abeth, Samuel Harvey, James Carothers, John, 
Mary Brant, Oliver Perry and Hiram. 

Of these, (c) Hezekiah Douthitt married Har- 
riet Irwin, and had children (d) — Mary, John N., 
James Harvey, Sarah Ann, Elizabeth, Rebecca, 
Hezekiah Douthitt, Margaret Jane, Martha and 
Catherine Celia. Of these, (d) Mary married Sam- 
uel Bell (had children: (e) — Hezekiah Gamble 
(married to Mary Atkinson, by whom he had two 
children: (f) — James and Vedora), James Gamble, 
Xenophon, Alexander Miller. Mary Aletta and 
Charles Douthitt); (d) John N. married Margaret 



J. Boyd; (d) James Harvey married Rhoda L. 
Harrison (had children: (e) — Corwiu, Bell, Anna 
Martha, Charles Sumner, Findley Wilson, Robert 
Alvey, William Knox, James Douthitt and Har- 
riet Mary); (d) Sarah Ann married Adam McCon- 
nell (had children: (e) — Harriet Ann (married to 
John Edie), John Findley, James Everett, Celia 
Iantha, William Clarence, Ella Jane and Clyde 
Irwin); (d) Elizabeth married Charles C. Taylor 
(had children: (e) — Selwyn Melvin (married to 
Mary Nolan), Lulu Maude (married to Albert 
Munhall) and Anna Laura); (d) Rebecca married 
Daniel Risher (had children: (e) — Sarah Crady, 
Nancy Denny, Charles Bayha, John C, Harriet, 
Dillie Munson and Douthitt Gamble. Of these, 
(e) Sarah Crady married James B. Neel, and had 
one child (f) Susan Rebecca; (e) Charles Bayha 
married Mary Fairfield, and had one child, (f) 
Mary; (e) John C. married Minnie McEnnlty, and 
had one child, (f) Louise), (d) Hezekiah Douthitt 
Gamble married Emma Bell Hair (children: 
(e)— Hattie Leila, Burtus Douthitt, Eva May, and 
Laura Margaret); (d) Martha Gamble married 
Henry N. Patten; (d) Catherine Celia married 
Euclid Allen Richards (children : (e) — VincentGam- 
ble, Clyde McConnell, James Melvin, Floyd Her- 
bert, Frank Allen, Harriet Marie and MaryElla). 

(c) Elizabeth Gamble married Levi Edmundson, 
and had children: (d) — Havilah Gamble. Drusilla 
Douthitt and Lacea Phillips; of these (d) Havilah 
Gamble married Sarah Pearse (children: (e) — Al- 
berta, Joseph, George, Elizabeth and Margaret), 
and (d) Drusilla Douthitt married J. J. Bowers 
(children: (e) — Elizabeth, Edwin, Harriet, Alice 
and Anna). 

(c) Samuel Harvey Gamble married Margaret J. 
Irwin, and their children were (d) — Sarah Ann, 
Harriet, Oliver Perry, John Henry, Rebecca Jane 
and James Harvey. Of these (d) Sarah Ann mar- 
ried Caleb Edmundson (children: (e) — Mary Jane, 
Margaret, Rebecca, Catherine, Anna Martha and 
Charles); (d) Harriet married John Bridenthall; 
(d) Oliver Perry married Harriet Hefley; (d) 
John Henry married Mary Jane Reynolds (chil- 
dren: (e) — Reynolds, Robert, Charles, Harold 
Selwyn, Mary and Margaret); (d) Rebecca Jane 
married William Hayden (children : (e) — Lawrence, 
Meredith and Bennett); (d) James Harvey married 
Margaret McKinney (children: (e) — Nancy, Olive, 
Frank and Mary). 

(c) James Carothers Gamble married Hannah 
Thomas, and had children: (d) — Xenophon, Mary 
and John; of these, Mary married Mr. Presley 
(one child: (e) Laura). 

(c) Hiram Gamble married Jane Torrence, and 
had children: (d) — Hezekiah Douthitt, Power Tor- 
rence, Ellert A., Oliver Perry and Mary Elizabeth; 
of these, Power Torrence married Emma Wilson 
(children: (e) — and Mary). 



I 



L428 



WAS1 1 IN < : TON CO UN TY. 



JAMES W. WILLIAMS, a prominent farmer, 
I and enterprising and progressive native-born 
I citizen of Fallowfield township, was born 
June 17, 1843, on the farm where he is yet 
living. His father, Francis Hull Williams, 
was born February 24, 17119, near Courtney, Union 
township, this county, and was a lifelong farmer. His 
father went to Ohio to take up land, and was killed 
by Indians. Francis Hull Williams was married 
April 7, 1825, to Rosanna Jones, who was born 
May 4. 1804, and died September 18, 1870. She 
bore him the following children: Elizabeth, born 
February 18, 1826 (married to G. Mcllvaine, of 
Carroll township); Margaret, born May 16, 1827, 
died in 1828; Thomas, born December 2D. L828, 
died May 13, 1831; William J., born January 20, 
1831 ; John W., bom February 21. L834;Ruth E., 
born March 9, 1836 (married to William Stoneman, 
and lives in Churchill, Ohio); Francis H., born 
June 6, 183S; David N., born August 25, 1840; 
James M., whose sketch follows; Samuel, born 
April 2, 1845, died April 29, L855; and Rosanna, 
born April 111, 1847, died September 29, Ms. 
The father of this family died February 25, 1856. 
He was a member of the M. E. Church, as was 
also his wife. The farms of the five surviving 
sons adjoin one another and cover an aggregate 
of over one thousand acres. 

James M. Williams received his early education 
in the schools of Washington county, and remained 
at home until the death of his parents. On Septem- 
ber 19, 1862, he enlisted in the "Ringgold Bat- 
talion" l22d Pennsylvania Cavalry), remaining in 
the service two years and ten months. His first com- 
mander was Capt. Milton W.Mitchner, who resigned 
in April, 1864. being succeeded by Capt. James Y. 
Chessroun. Mr. Williams served through the 
entire Shenandoah Valley campaign, taking part 
in all the engagements of the Ringgold Battalion. 
He had a severe attack of typhoid fever while 
in the army, and after the conflict returned home 
to Washington county. On October 30, 1873, he 
wa- united in marriage with A. Estelle, daughter 
of YV. Philips, a prominent farmer of the county, 
and their children are Clara E., Ruth E., and 
Nancy B. On Mr. Williams' farm are two gas 
wells, also a large coal mine which has yielded him 
a good profit. In politics he is a Republican, and 
has served live years as supervisor of his township, 
refusing re-election. He and his wife are members 
of the M. E. Church. 



THOMAS WEIR IRWIN is a great-grand- 
son of John Irwin, who was born in County 
Down, Ireland, and who, in 1801, together 
with his wife, their son William, and his 
wife (Margaret McCormick, whom he mar- 
ried in 1800), two other sous — James and John — 



and one daughter, all left their native land together 
for America, intending to come by the same ship. 
William, just before the vessel sailed, went back 
for something he had forgotten, and when he again 
reached the quay, or wharf, he found to his dismay 
that the good ship had set sail without him, taking 
all the rest of the family. He followed, however, by 
the next ship he could find sailing for the New World, 
and must have passed the other on the ocean, for 
his trip was only of five weeks' duration, while the 
other ship had a perilous passage of thirteen 
weeks, being very nearly swallowed up by a suc- 
cession of storms. 

After landing, the family located on Plum run, 
Allegheny Co., Penn., near Pittsburgh. In the 
year 1802 they all moved to Kentucky except 
James Irwin, who remained in Washington 
county. Penn., to learn a trade. In 1803 the 
family proceeded to Ross county, Ohio, where they 
bought land, and Great-grandfather Irwin died 
there. Grandfather Irwin, with his wife, mother, 
brother and sister, moved to Highland county, 
Ohio, in 1S04, and here he bought land, cleared 
off the timber and built his house, three corners of 
it resting on stumps, the fourth one on a stone. 
It was a typical old-fashioned log cabin, with clap- 
board roof weighted with poles, mother earth serv- 
ing as a floor, while the primitive •'furniture" 
consisted of a block of wood, three-legged stools, 
etc. Here the great-grandmother of our subject 
died at an extremely advanced age, and her son 
William and his wife both passed away in old age, 
he in 1853 and she in 1851. 

In 1814 their sou Robert was born in the " Wil- 
derness ' ' of Highland county, Ohio, where he at- 
tended the first school held in the county. The 
schoolhouse was of logs, one end being the fire- 
place, and the windows were holes cut in the logs 
and covered with greased paper. For live years 
Robert drove teams for his father between Chilli- 
cothe and Cincinnati, Ohio. He married Nancy 
\V. Weir, a daughter of Thomas Weir, whom he 
met while visiting his uncle, James Irwiu, in 
Pennsylvania. A correspondence was begun, and 
in 1840 they were married. To them were born 
the following children: James, Margaret, Lavina, 
Nancv YV.. Susan E., William McCormick and 
Thomas W. 

The subject of our sketch was born January 
24, 1843, in Highland county, Ohio. His sifter 
Margaret married Josiah Smith, and bore him 
the following children: Nancy, Eleanor, Iva, 
Lola, Irwin, Margaret, Lavina, Thomas and Edna, 
of whom Nancy, Eleanor and Thomas are .lead. 
Thomas W. Irwin is one of West Bethlehem's 
most prominent farmers, and enjoys an enviable 
reputation for thrift and honesty. Although his 
early education was gleaned from the common 
schools, he is a well-informed man. and has 



WASHINGTON COUNT)'. 



141".* 



traveled quite extensively, spending some time in 
the "Far West." Mr. Irwin is a Democrat, and 
although not an office-seeker is one of the leaders 
of his party. He is a regular attendant of the 
United Presbyterian Church, of which he is a 
member. 




i.ILLIAM M. HORN. The family, of 
which the subject of these lines is a 
prominent representative, are of German 
ancestry, and located in this county many 
years prior to the Revolution. The first 
couple of the name, of whom we have a record, 
were Martin and Peggy (Wilkins) Horn, who re- 
sided in Buffalo township, and reared a family of 
seven children. 

John Horn, son of Martin and Peggy Horn, was 
born on the home farm in Buffalo township, and re- 
ceived a necessarily limited education. He grew 
to maturity amid the wild scenes of early civiliza- 
tion, and when a young man was married to Mary 
M. Gantz, daughter of John Gantz, an early resi- 
dent of Greene county, Penn. The children born 
to this union were as follows: Martin, George 
C. , Jacob, Hugh, Isaac, Margaret, Elizabeth (Mrs. 
Price), John, Hannah (Mrs. Elvey), William M. 
and Maria (Mrs. Coogle), of whom Jacob, John 
and Margaret are deceased. 

William M. Horn, son of John and Mary M. 
Horn, was born April 18, 1839, in Buffalo town- 
ship, Washington Co., Penn., where he was reared 
to agricultural pursuits, and received a good com- 
mon-school education. In 1801 he, in company 
with his brothers Hugh and Jacob, bravely 
shouldered his musket in defense of the "Stars 
and Stripes," enlisting in Company A (Capt. 
Armstrong), One Hundredth P. V. I. He was 
mustered into service August 28, 1861, at Pitts- 
burgh, Penn., and the company was first taken to 
Washington, D. C. , thence to Beauport, S. C. He 
then participated in the following engagements: 
Port Royal, James Island, Bull Run, Chantilly, 
South Mountain, Antietam, Fredericksburg, the 
charge upon Fort Sanders at Knoxville, Tenn., 
Blue Springs, Ky. , and siege of Vicksburg. Mr. 
Horn was at this time transferred to the army 
of the Potomac, and there fought in the battle of 
the Wilderness, North Anna river. Cold Harbor 
and Petersburg. At the last mentioned engage- 
ment he was wounded by a minie ball in the left 
shoulder. On August 28, 1864, he received an 
honorable discharge, and returned to the farm in 
Washington county, Penn. His brother Jacob 
died the day that his term of enlistment expired; 
Hugh is now living in Henry county, Iowa. On 
January 1, 1885, William M. Horn was united in 
marriage with Louisa, second daughter of John 
Clemens. The latter traced his genealogy back, 



through many years, to an Englishman who em- 
igrated from his native land in a very early day. 
and taking up a large tract of land in Buffalo 
township, Washington county, became identified 
with the earliest history of the county. Among 
the sons of this early pioneer was one James 
Clemens, born in Washington county, and mar- 
ried to Hannah Walton, who bore him the follow- 
ing children: Jeremiah, born September 16, 
L763; Christina, born January 21, 1765; William 
O, born January 30, 1767; Abram, born October 

3, 1769; Ann, born October 5, 1771; Ruth, born 
March 26, 1773; John, born September 12, 1775; 
Parmelia, born April 10, 177i ; James, born March 

4, 1779; Hannah, born March 5, 1781; Ezekiel, 
born July 18, 1783, and Hester, born June is, 
1785. 

William C. Clemens, son of James and Hannah 
Clemens, was born and reared on the farm in 
Buffalo township, Washington county. In early 
life he was married to Mary Wolfe, and their chil- 
dren were as follows: Dr. James Clemens, an emi- 
nent physician of Wheeling, W. Va. , born May 
26, 1795, died in 1845; Jacob, born November 6, 
1796; Abraham, born September 7, 1798; Eliza- 
beth, born February 1, 1800; William, born April 
25, 1S03; John C, born December 28. LSI 14; 
Hannah, born October 30, 1806; Sabina, born 
November 6, 1808; Amos, born August 14, 1810; 
Jeremiah, born May 10, 1812; Delilah, born Feb 
ruary 6, 1815, and Hester, born July 2, 1818. Of 
this family Hannah is the only one yet living. 
The father was a farmer, and for many years was 
justice of the peace. 

John C. Clemens, son of William C. and Mary 
(Wolfe) Clemens, was born on the old homestead 
in Buffalo towuship, this county. He was a pros- 
perous farmer and an enterprising citizen. When 
a youug man he was married to Louisa, only 
daughter of John Hupp, a wealthy farmer, a 
brother of the eminent physician. Dr. Hupp, of 
Wheeling, W. Va. To this union were born seven 
children, viz.: James C. , John Hupp (he was a 
member of Company A, One Hundredth P. V. I., 
and was killed at Petersburg, Va. , June 17, 1864), 
Isaac C, Veturia, Louisa (Mrs. Horn), Alonzo 
Walton (who lives on part of the home place) and 
John. Alonzo W. owns part of the Clemens home- 
stead farm adjoining Mrs. Horn, on which are sev- 
eral good producing oil wells; there are also some 
good oil wells on Mrs. Horn's farm (what was once 
the Clemens homestead); there are in all twenty- 
four oil wells. Part of the farm is now owned by 
Mr. Werick and Mrs. Horn, Alonzo W. owning 
the rest. John C. Clemens, the father of this fam- 
ily, served for many years as justice of the peace; 
he was first cousin of Samuel Clemens, better 
known by the nam <!'• plume of " Mark Twain." 

Mr. and Mrs. William M. Horn reside on eighty- 



1430 



UASH1XGT0X COUNTY. 



five acres of the Clemens farm, part of the old 
homestead, and he also owns part of the old home- 
stead containing 125 acres, on which he was born 
and raised, and on which is an extensive stone 
quarry, leased to the Pittsburgh Stone Company, 
and he realizes a handsome royalty. Mr. Horn 
gives his attention to farming and stock raising. 
In politics he votes with the Republican party. 




Ii BSALOM ASH BROOK. Simeon Ash brook, 
1\ the second in his father's family, in the or- 
^\ der of their birth, was a blacksmith by 
^ trade, and during twelve years of his life 
lived in Augusta township, Carroll Co., 
Ohio, where he worked at his trade. Before re- 
moving thither he married Emma Sherah, of Buf- 
falo township, Washington Co., Penn. Returning 
to Pennsylvania, he spent the remainder of his 
life in Washington county. To Mr. and Mrs. Ash- 
brook six children were born : Mary, Absalom, 
Ann, Margaret, Nancy and Amy, of whom only 
two are living, Amy (widow of John Wolfe) and 
Absalom (who was born November 26, 1818). 

Absalom Ashbrook's opportunities for obtaining 
an education were very limited. He learned the 
blacksmith's trade with his father, whom he 
assisted in the shop at an almost incredibly early 
age. He followed the trade until 1879, since 
which time he has given his attention to man- 
aging his farm work. In 1844 he married Sabina 
Elliot, who was born May 24, 1828, a daughter of 
William Elliot, of Morris township, and to their 
union came the following children: Simeon, born 
April 4, 1846, died in 1883; Jemima, born June 
30, 1847, died when quite young; William, born 
October 3, 1848 (he was twice married — first to 
Ella Weir, and, after her death, to Ella Day); 
Amy, born August 1, 1850, married Will Stallar, 
of West Finley township; Nancy Ann. born March 
1, 1852, married James Stallar, of East Finley 
township; Jackson, born October 31, 1S53, married 
Lizzie Loafman, and now resides in Burnsville; 
Mary Margaret, born May 8, 1S55, died in 1S80; 
Alexander, born October 1, 1856, is a carpenter 
by trade, and resides with his father; Abraham, 
born March 26, 1858, resides with his father, and 
assists in the farm work; Absalom, born January 
13, 1861, married Lizzie McClellan, of East Finley 
township, and resides in that township; John N., 
born January IS, 1863, died at the age of two 
years; Robert E. Lee, born March 13, 1865, is 
a prominent physician of Wheeling, W. Va., and 
Sabina, born July 16, 1871, resides at home. Mr. 
Ashbrook is a Democrat in politics, and both he 
and his wife are members of the Cumberland 
Presbyterian Church. 



rrY ICHARD M. MOUNTS, a worthy repre- 
lWy sentative of one of the oldest families of 
\\^ the county, and a prominent citizen of 
J) -^ Franklin township, of which he is a na- 
v tive, was born July 10, 1836. Richard 

Mounts, his grandfather, was a native of Maryland, 
and at the age of sixteen came to Washington 
county, arriving in 1773. when there were but few 
settlers in its forest wilds. His wife was Mary 
Keley, who was born on the broad Atlantic when 
her parents were crossing from Ireland to the 
shores of Columbia. After their marriage Mr. 
and Mrs. Mounts settled on a small farm near 
what is now the thriving city of Washington, and 
commenced life in a very primitive and humble 
way. Their little log cabin was furnished with 
home-made stools in lieu of chairs, a table to cor- 
respond, while the bedstead was so ingeniously 
fixed to the walls in one corner of the room as to 
require only one leg. But they lived " far from 
the madding crowd," contented and happy in the 
enjoyment of life. The children born to this hon- 
ored pioneer couple were William, Mary, Jennie 
(the widow of George Boyd, and the only one liv- 
ing), John, James, Matilda, Richard R., Joseph 
and Martha. When Mr. Mounts first started out 
in the world to fight his own way he was under 
age; and in order to compensate his father for the 
loss of his services from that time until his coming 
of age, he paid him the sum of £15. His political 
sympathies were with the Federalists; he was a 
member of the Presbyterian Church. 

Richard R. Mounts, father of subject, was born 
in what is now called West Washington, then 
known as Rankintown, this county, and passed his 
boyhood and youth assisting his father on the 
farm, his education being necessarily meager, all 
the schooling he received having been acquired 
when other duties were less pressing. When a 
young man he and his brother purchased the land 
in Franklin township now owned by our subject, 
which they improved, and where for a time they 
kept bachelor's hall until the marriage, in 1835, 
of Richard R. with Margaret, daughter of William 
and Sarah Johnson, of Lancaster county, Penn. 
Of this union were born four children: Richard 
M., Sarah (Mrs. William Weir, of Franklin town- 
ship), William, who died in 1863, and James A., 
of Franklin township. They remained on the 
farm just referred to the rest of their lives. He 
died November 5, 1878, at the age of sixty-six 
years, his wife in May, 1887, when aged sixty-seven 
years. Mr. Mounts was one of the hardest working 
men in his township, and was deservedly success- 
ful, as well as popular. All his life he took an 
active part in politics, having been first a Whig, 
and afterward, on the organization of the party, a 
straight Republican. For some time he was a 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



1433 



member of the North Buffalo Presbyterian Church, 
and afterward united with the one at Washington. 
The early life of Richard M. Mounts was passed 
alternately in school and in assisting his parents on 
the farm, agricultural pursuits being his life voca- 
tion. He now owns a fertile farm of 200 acres, 
under a high state of cultivation and equipped 
with all modern improvements and several commo- 
dious buildings. On October 23, 1873, Mr. Mounts 
married Charlotte, daughter of Robert Chambers, 
of Franklin township, and the children born to this 
union are Robert, Katie and Millie. In politics 
Mr. Mounts is a Republican. He and his family 
attend the services of the Buffalo Church. 




ILLIAM NELSON. There is probably 
no citizen of Washington county who is 
better or more favorably known than the 
gentleman above named. He is univer- 
sally esteemed by those who have the 
pleasure of his acquaintance, and no better evidence 
of his worth can be given to the public than in a 
record of his personal history. His father, Peter 
Nelson, was a native of Yorkshire, England, and is 
yet remembered by his old neighbors as a man of 
sterling merit. Peter Nelson followed the stone 
mason's trade in connection with farming, and about 
the year 1812 visited America, intending to find a 
home in the United States. The unsettled condi- 
tion of the country discouraged him from emigrat- 
ing at that time, and he finally returned to Eng- 
land, where he died leaving six children, viz. : John, 
Peter, Mathew. William, Mary and Betsey. Of 
this family Mathew and Peter are living in Eng- 
land, John, Mary and Betsey are deceased. 

William Nelson, son of Peter, was born March 
1, 1810, on a place twenty miles from Leeds, in 
Yorkshire, England. His youth was passed in as- 
sisting with the farm work, for like many other 
healthy, active boys, he cherished a decided antip- 
athy for books, and found ample but useful exer- 
cise on the farm for his superabundant vitality. 
He also learned the weaving trade, but devoted 
most of his boyhood to overseeing a large flock of 
sheep, his home having been near the Scotch moors, 
where sheep raising was the principal industry. 
When he grew older young Nelson was employed 
at cutting stone, and while in that business cut 
some of the stone ties used in constructing the first 
railroad in England. The stone was hauled to 
Ripton, sixteen miles distant, and conveyed by 
canal to Newcastle. Some years prior to 1849 
William Nelson married Grace, daughter of John 
Renard, both of whom were natives of England. 
In 1849 the young couple embarked on an Ameri 
can-bound vessel, and sailed for the New World. 
He had then by closest economy managed to save 



about $500 from a salary of 50 cents per day, and 
upon arriving in Allegheny county, Penn., he 
rented a farm near Webster, Westmoreland county. 
He soon afterward moved to Elizabeth, same State, 
and invested his savings in a coal enterprise, which 
failed after a short season of prosperity. This 
disaster left our young hero penniless and a family 
dependent upon him for support, but with the in- 
vincible spirit of a true Englishman he proceeded 
to begin life anew. He moved to a small log cabin 
in the woods near McKeesport, which was known 
as the "wooden-windowed house," glass having 
been an unattainable luxury, then secured employ- 
ment with a threshing machine, and traveled 
through the country, receiving for his services 
$1 per day and board. Soon afterward, through 
the assistance of friends who had discovered his 
ability and worth, he was enabled to rent 450 acres 
of land known as the "White Oak Level." He 
farmed this place very successfully for about four 
years, then moved to a place near Elizabeth town- 
ship, and one year later bought a small farm of one 
Gibson, on "long-time payments." He soon sold 
this place at a good profit to the former owner, and 
rented a large farm, whose proprietor required the 
tenant to give first-class references. This con- 
dition was easily complied with, as every one was 
glad to give a helping hand to the enterprising 
young man, and recommendations were given him 
by the most prominent citizens of McKeesport. 
The contract for this place was made in such lib- 
eral terms that Mr. Nelson saved quite a sum of 
money, $1,000 of which he invested in a coal bank, 
and again lost the entire amount, but was not as 
destitute as before, having accumulated other 
property one mile south. In 1861 he removed to 
a farm in McLean county, 111., taking with him 
one car load of sheep and one of horses, and after 
arriving in Illinois he bought three car loads of 
hogs, but after a time he lost about 300 head by 
cholera. He remained there three years, then be- 
coming discontented made a sale, returned to 
Pennsylvania, and resided in Westmoreland county 
about six months. At the end of that time he pur- 
chased his present farm on the Monongahela river, 
just within the limits of Monongahela. For this 
place he paid $11,000, giving $1,000 cash, and the 
remainder in annual payments, which he succeeded 
in clearing after years of economy and constant 
toil. To-day his property is valued at about $20,- 
000, and he conducts a stone quarry in addition to 
general farming. In political opinion Mr. Nel- 
son is one of the strongest supporters of the Re- 
publican party, and takes the deepest interest in 
all matters tending to improve his adopted country, 
which he loves with all the ardor of a native-born 
citizen. He and his wife were members of the 
Church of England. They have had eight children, 



n:u 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



namely: Mathew (deceased), Mary Ann, William, 
Jobn (all of whom worn born in England), Thomas 
(deceased), Ellen, George and Maggie (who were 
born in America). 



JOHN N. WEIR, a representative well-to-do 
citizen of Franklin township, is a native of 
the same, having been born on bis father's 
farm June 26, 1844 He is of Scotch-Irish 
descent, being a grandson of Samuel Weir, who in 
the latter part of the eighteenth century came with 
a brother from Scotland to this country, the family 
finally making a settlement in Washington county, 
Penn. In the fall of 1813 he purchased, of John 
Sargent, 200 acres of wild land on Ten Mile creek, 
to which he afterward added 180 acres. He was 
married to Margaret, daughter of John Clark, and 
they then settled on the Stephen Post farm, where 
they passed the remainder of their days. The 
names of the children born to them are: Joseph, 
Adam, Thomas, Jane, Mary, Elizabeth, Rachel 
and Sarah (the latter married to a Mr. Rettig), all 
now deceased. Mr. Weir was a lifelong farmer, 
eminently successful in his vocation. For many 
years he was a consistent Presbyterian, in which 
faith he died; in politics he was an active Demo- 
crat. 

Adam Weir, son of Samuel and Margaret (Clark) 
Weir, was born in Franklin township, this county, 
May '27, 1801, where he passed his boyhood and 
youth in working on the farm and attending, dur- 
ing the winter months, the subscription schools of 
the neighborhood. On December 1, 1825, he was 
united in marriage with Sarah Carter, who bore 
him the following named children: Margaret, Jane, 
William and Henry B. On May IS), 1836, Mr. 
Weir took, for his second wife, Phoebe Tucker, and 
the children by that union were Samuel H. (de- 
ceased), John N., Sarah and Phrebe D. On May 
14, 1850, he was married to Mrs. Cynthia Kane, 
daughter of Mathias Minton and widow of C. C. 
Kane, and one son was born to them, Adam, Jr., 
who married Ella, daughter of Thomas Hanna, 
of Morris township, and one daughter, Lell, living 
in Pittsburgh. Adam Weir, Sr., came in 1840 to 
the present residence of his widow and youngest 
son, and made many improvements thereon. At 
his death, which occurred July 15, 1866, he was 
th«< owner of a large farm, the accumulation of a 
lifetime of hard work. He was an active and lib- 
eral supporter of the Presbyterian Church, as well 
as of all public enterprises, and was universally re- 
spected. 

John N. Weir p:\ssed his earlier years on the 
farm, for a time attending the schools of the neigh- 
borhood, and though he was obliged to leave 
school at an early age, he continued to spend his 
leisure time in study. On November 28, 1867, he 



was united in marriage with Martha M. , daughter 
of J. Miller Day, and to their union were born the 
following named children: Edna L., Nellie S., 
Bessie L. and MattieD., the last named dying at 
the age of eight months. In politics Mr. Weir is 
a Democrat, taking an active interest in the affairs 
of his party. He and his family are interested in 
church work. 



rrWHOMAS HENRY CARSON, M. 1). Wash- 
ington Carson was born in 1815, on the 
home farm in Fallowtield township, this 
I) county. In March, 1843, he was united in 
marriage with Miss Elizabeth, daughter of 
Henry Allman, a prosperous farmer of Washington 
county. 

The first of the Allman family to arrive in this 
county was William, who was married in Maryland 
to Hannah Thomas, a native of that State, and 
after their marriage they came hither, making a 
settlement in West Pike Run township, where they 
passed the remainder of their pioneer lives, the 
husband dying first. They were the parents of 
eight children: Sarah, Elizabeth, Hannah, James, 
John, William, Henry and Heyman, of whom 
Henry became the father of Mrs. Washington Car- 
sou. He was married to Nancy, daughter of Alex- 
ander Hopkins, of West Pike Run township, and 
the young couple then made their home in that 
township, passing away in after years within three 
months of each other. The following children 
were born to them: Hainan (in West Pike Run 
township), Elizabeth (Mrs. Carson), William (in 
Indiana county. Penn.), Alexander (in Youngs- 
town, Ohio), Henry (deceased), Sarah Ann (de- 
ceased wife of John Johnson), Nancy (wife of T. C. 
Hopkins, in Washington county). To the union of 
Washington and Elizabeth (Allman) Carson were 
born children as follows; Nancy (wife of Peter 
Miller, of Hillsborough), T. H. (subject), Margery 
(deceased wife of Levi Winnett), Johauna (deceased 
wife of William Blythe), Frances and Elizabeth 
(both at home), and Hopkins (deceased at the age 
of fourteen years). Mr. and Mrs. Carson al- 
ways resided on the home place, which contains 
'_''_!() acres of laud, and he also owned 168 acres in 
West Pike Run township. He died May 27, 1889; 
his widow is yet living on the farm. 

T. H. Carson, whose name introduces this biog- 
raphy, was born October 26, 1853, on the home 
place in Fallowtield township, already referred to. 
He attended the Southwestern State Normal School 
at California, Penn., and afterward took a medical 
course at the University of Pennsylvania, gradu- 
ating in 1884. He then began the practice of his 
profession with Dr. J. Y. Scott, of Washington (at 
that time in Bentleyville, this county), remaining 
one year, at the end of which time, his father 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1435 



being an invalid, and bis brother Hopkins having 
been killed by an accident, our subject abandoned 
for a time bis professional career, and returned to 
the farm. He now has charge of the old borne 
place, which is'situated eight miles south of Monon 
gahela, and four and one-half miles west of Char- 
leroi, and in connection with farming and stock 
raising he has been in the real-estate business in 
Charleroi, where be still has interests. 

On September 14, 1892, Dr. Carson was united 
in marriage with Ada, daughter of John H. and 
Virtue Jenkins, of West Pike Run township, and 
of an old family in the county. Her father died in 
1876; her mother is yet living in West Pike Run 
township. Their children are Anna (wife of Prof. 
Hall, of the Southwestern State Normal School), 
Ada (Mrs. Dr. Carson), Walter (a farmer in West 
Pike Run township), and Louise, Margaret and 
Roy (living with their mother). Dr. Carson and 
his mother are members of the Methodist Church, 
and in his political preferences he votes the Demo- 
cratic ticket. Squire Henry Carson, the paternal 
great-grandfather of Dr. Carson, lived for years at 
the homestead where the latter now resides, the 
farm having been in the family possession ever 
since. It was patented from the Government by 
John Hull, from whom Henry Carson purchased it. 

[Further record of this family will be found in the 
sketch of Jackson and Alexander S. Carson, elsewhere in 
this volume. 



AMUEL MTJNNEL is descended from an 
old and prominent pioneer family of Wash- 
ington county. John Munnel was the first 
ancestor of the family name to settle in 
America. He and his wife settled in South Stra- 
bane township, this county, where they died, hav- 
ing reared eleven children. 

Samuel Munnel, the father of subject, was born 
in 1795, in South Strabane township, this county, 
and in early manhood was united in marriage with 
Nancy Equiston, of Butler county, Penn. The 
young people settled on the home farm, where 
children were born as follows: Isabelle (living in 
Canonsburg), John (deceased), Robert (a resident 
of North Strabane township), Sarah Jane (widow 
of George Taylor, of Washington borough), Sam- 
uel (whose sketch follows), Thomas (deceased in 
his eighteenth year), William (deceased in infancy), 
James (living in Crafton, Penn.), Catherine E. 
(wife of John Herron, of South Strabane township), 
Mary E. (Mrs. Adam Hall, of South Strabane 
township) and Charles (deceased; his son is a book- 
keeper in the Reform School at Morganza). The 
father was a Democrat, and in religion a member 
of the Presbyterian Church. He died in 1881 at 
the age of eighty years, and his widow passed 
away in March, 1891, at the home of her son 
Samuel. 



Samuel Munnel was born on the home farm in 
South Strabane township, this county, where his 
youth was passed. He then learned the carpen- 
ter's trade, which he followed three years, working 
for Hugh Reynolds, at $25 a year. He made a 
trip to the West, and returning to Washington 
county purchased a sawmill in South Strabane 
township, conducting same twenty-five years. He 
afterward bought another mill in North Strabane 
township, and a portable sawmill. In 1809 he 
came to Canonsburg, continuing in the mill busi- 
ness, and for the past fourteen years has been en- 
gaged in the ice business. In 1860 Samuel Mun- 
nel was united in marriage with Miss Margaret 
Ringland. Her uncle, Thomas Ringland, was 
Speaker of the House of Representatives. Mrs. 
Munnel died a few years after her marriage, leav- 
ing two children, one that died and Mary Ring- 
land. For his second wife he was married to 
Nancy E., daughter of Andrew Crawford, and a 
native of Peters township, Washington county, who 
bore him four children: Martha, Nannie, Eva and 
Samuel, all living at home. In 1886 he entered 
the hardware and building business in partnership 
with H. W. Taylor. During the war Samuel Mun- 
nel was a member of the State militia. In politics 
he has been a Democrat, serving in various town- 
ship offices, and in religion is a member and trustee 
of the Presbyterian Church. His home is situated 
in the west end of Canonsburg. 




P^ OBERT S. CALDWELL. The lives of 
our forefathers are full of interest to the 
modern citizen, not alone for their histor- 
ical value, but as example and inspiration 
to the present generation, for truly has the 
poet said: "We are the same that our fathers 
have been;" and although surroundings may differ, 
yet the essential conditions of human life are ever 
similar, and every man can learn from the success 
of others, if he will heed the obvious lessons of 
their history. Robert Caldwell (grandfather of 
the gentleman whose name opens this sketch) was 
born in Maryland, of Scotch parents. He crossed 
the mountains in an early day, settling in Hope- 
well township, this county, on the farm adjoining 
the present home of his grandson. Two children 
were born to him: Samuel and Mrs. Touchill. 

Samuel Caldwell was born in 1787, on the old 
place in Hopewell township, and was reared to 
manhood on the farm. In early life he was united 
in marriage with Jane, daughter of the Rev. 
Thomas Marquis, who preached the Gospel thirty- 
nine years. He was married to Jane Parks, who 
was born in 1750 and died in 1841, having been 
preceded by Mr. Marquis in 1827, in his seventy- 
ninth year. The Parks family wore often forced 
to leave their home and flee to the fort for safety 



1436 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



from the hostile Indians. On one occasion James 
Parks, a brother of Jane, was working in the har- 
vest field, when he was surrounded by Indians 
and killed before he could escape. To the union 
of Samuel and Jane (Marquis) Caldwell children 
were born as follows: Thomas M., Robert S., 
Samuel, William S., Mary, Jane aud Sarah, two of 
whom are now living: William S. (in Donegal 
township, this county) and Robert S. The father 
was an active politician of the Whig party, and in 
religious connection was a member of the Presby 
terian Church of Buffalo, this county. 

Robert S. Caldwell was born on the old home- 
stead, and assisted with the farm duties during his 
youth. In early manhood he was married to Mar- 
garet Templeton, who died seven months after- 
ward. Some time afterward he chose a second 
wife in the person of Caroline, daughter of Hon. 
William Vance, a prosperous farmer and ex-repre- 
sentative of Washington county, Penn. Five 
children were born to this union, viz. : Hannah J.. 
Margaret, William, Samuel and Carrie (deceased in 
infancy). His third wife was Nancy, daughter of 
James, and granddaughter of George Work, who 
was born and reared in County Londonderry, Ire- 
land, aud on March 3, 1780, was united in wedlock 
with Martha Dunlap, a native of Old Erin. Two 
children were born to their union: Alexander, 
born February 11, 1781, and Jane, born May 9, 
1783. A few years after their birth the father 
determined to seek a home in the New World, and 
on July 24, 1789, he and his family boarded the 
brig "Keziah," at Londonderry, Ireland. After 
a stormy voyage of eight weeks they landed at 
Wilmington, Del., and in 1795 pushed farther 
westward in search of a cheap home. The long, 
tedious journey was made by wagon, the family ar- 
riving in Hopewell township, Washington county, 
Penn. They located in a log-cabin near Buffalo 
village, where he became a successful farmer. 
Three children were born after they arrived in 
America: Mary, born November 8, lT'.IO; James, 
born September 12, 1792, and John D. , born 
November 14, 1794. The parents both died in 
this county. 

James Work was born in Wilmington. Del., 
and when three years of age was brought by his 
parents to the farm in Hopewell township, this 
county. He received a meager education in the 
subscription schools, and followed agricultural pur- 
suits during his early youth. On February 7. 
1822, he was married to Grizzilla, daughter of 
Robert Tweed, who bore him two children: Eliza- 
beth Grizzilla, born December 20, 1823, and 
George T.. born April 7. 1825. The mother of 
these children was called to her rest January 27, 
lv_'7, and on July 3, L828, James Work was mar- 
ried to .Margaret Caldwell, the following children 



being born to their union: Martha L. , born June 
1, 1829; Agnes A., born November 17, 1831; 
Sarah J., born October 14. 1832; Mary B.. born 
May 8, 1834; Clarissa E., born November 8, 1835; 
Samuel C, born July 16, 1838; Maria I., born 
August 11, 1840; Margaret E., born October 26, 
1S42; and Sophia M. A., born March 6, 1846. 

Politically Mr. Caldwell is a true-hearted Re- 
publican, and in religious connection is a member 
of the Buffalo Presbyterian Church, to which he 
gives a liberal support. 



JOHN CULLEY is a worthy representative of 
a pioneer family of this county. His father, 
Levi Culley, was born about 1709, in Mary- 
land, and there married Esther Smith, who 
was born about 1775, same State. Levi Culley 
was a farmer, and in about. 1800 came to Washing- 
ton county, Penn., the long journey being made in 
a large covered wagon, drawn by four horses. 
When crossing the Susquehanna river, a singular 
experience befel them, which might have ended 
more seriously. As the large, covered wagon stood 
on the ferry-boat a strong breeze was blowing, and 
the covered top served to catch no small amount of 
wind, the force of which drove the boat some 
distance out of its course, causing much trouble in 
securing a suitable place to land, since they were 
unable to reach the usual place. This wagon con- 
tained the father and mother, with their two chil- 
dren, Jesse and Joseph. They proceeded on their 
journey, sleeping in their wagon beside the road 
at night, and finally arriving in Washington county, 
located near Bulger Station, Smith township, 
where the father rented a farm, and began work- 
ing upon it. He was a tenant on different farms 
several years, and by energy and economy event- 
ually accumulated a small sum, and purchased 277 
acres of John L. Proudfit, in Hanover town- 
ship, this county, partially lying in Smith town- 
ship. Levi Culley was a cooper, and followed that 
trade in connection with farming. He was a hard- 
working man, never idle, and very successful in 
his business life. In politics he was a Democrat, 
and in religion a member of Cross Roads Presby- 
terian Church. He died in 1818, and his widow, 
with the assistance of her sons, managed the estate 
which he left, until in 1S47 she too was laid to rest 
by the Mile of her husband, in the Florence 
cemetery. Of their children the following is a 
brief record: Jesse was born in Maryland, and 
when but a small boy came to Washington county, 
Penn., with his parents (ho was married to Susan, 
daughter of Elder John Duncan, and settled on a 
farm in Washington county, where he died in his 
seventy-second year); Joseph was married to 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1437 



Martha, daughter of Benjamin Scott, and settled 
on the farm now owned by their son, John S. ; 
George was the first child born after the family 
settled in Washington county (he was married to 
Jane Fulton, and was a farmer: he died in Hanover 
township, aged seventy-two years); Robert was a 
cabinet maker by trade (he married Amanda Mc- 
Cond, and they settled in Florence, this county, 
where he died August 21, 1848); Sinie never mar- 
ried (she died in early womanhood); Lydia was 
married to James Cubbison, a cabinet maker (they 
afterward settled on a farm in Guernsey county, 
Ohio, and in 1844 moved to a place near Mt. 
Pleasant, Iowa, where she«died); Rebecca was the 
wife of William Cole, of Hanover township, this 
county, where she died; Levi learned the tailor's 
trade in Florence, this county, afterward entering 
into partnership with Andrew Conn, at Mansfield, 
Ohio (he married Mary Ann Butterfoes, and is now 
living on a farm in Morrow county, Ohio); Helen 
was united in marriage to Robert G. Smith, a 
farmer of Hanover township, this county, where 
she died. 

John Culley, the youngest child of Levi and 
Esther (Smith) Culley, was born March 17, 1817, 
in Hanover township, Washington Co., Penn., on 
a farm adjoining the old homestead. His educa- 
tion was obtained at the ''Coventry School," and 
as his father died when he was but an infant, his 
youth was passed with his widowed mother. On 
October 27, 1842, he was united in marriage with 
Julia Briceland, who was born in 1815, in Wash- 
ington, Penn., daughter of James Briceland, a 
hotel keeper. Her grandfather laid out the limits 
of Florence, this county. The children of John 
and Julia Culley are as follows: Jesse, a carpen- 
ter of Hookstown, Beaver Co., Penn.; James, a 
bricklayer by trade, now a ranchman, of Montana; 
Levi S. , a farmer of Hanover township, this 
county; Thomas M., a farmerof Hanover township; 
Hettie J., Mrs. J. S. Malone, of Smith township, 
this county; Nancy, wife of James A. Malone, of 
Smith township, and Newton M. , also of Smith 
township. After his marriage John Culley resided 
for ten years on a farm in Hanover township, this 
county, and in 1852 went to Harrison county, Ohio, 
locating near Scio, where he remained but a short 
time, then returned to his native county, first set- 
tling in Smith township, but afterward moving to 
Hanover township. In 1866 he purchased his 
present farm, where he has since resided, follow- 
ing general farming and stock raising. In politics 
Mr. Culley was formerly a Whig, and later a Re- 
publican. Both he and his wife are members of 
the Cross Roads Presbyterian Church. He is a 
stranger to sickness, and has ever been an indus- 
trious man, winning the esteem and confidence of 
all with whom he is associated. 



B^ANIEL DILLE, an esteemed resident of 
|| Morris township, is a son of Lewis Dille, 
/ who was born upon the old home place in 
1799. In 1822 he married Lucy McCollum, 
who bore him the following children: Ira (de- 
ceased). Jesse M. , Cephas, Daniel, Ephraim, John, 
David and Keziah. Lewis Dille died in 1885, and 
was followed by his wife the same year. 

Daniel Dille, whose name opens this memoir, 
was born January 14. 1829, on his father's farm 
in Morris township, Washington Co., Penn. He 
received a somewhat limited common-school edu- 
cation, and remained at home till twenty-two years 
of age, when he began to learn the trade of a 
cooper, which business he followed twenty-five 
years. On February 27, 1850, he was united in 
marriage with Mary Jane Andrews, who was born 
July '•*. 1833, a daughter of Ira Andrews, a resi- 
dent of Morris township. In 1851 he purchased 
of his father the well-improved farm lying about 
three miles northeast of Prosperity, in Morris 
township, this county, which is still in his pos- 
session. The following children were born to this 
union: Caleb M. , born February 11, 1852, a resi 
dent of AVashington, Penn., and married to Sarah 
Dille, daughter of Ephraim Dille, of Morris town- 
ship, and Elizabeth Ann, born August 11, 1854, 
wife of Henry Sanders, and a resident of Morris 
township. On December 21, 1854, Mrs. Dille died, 
andOctober4, 1855, Mr. Dille married Catherine Mc- 
Vay, daughter of Samuel McVay, of Morris township, 
this county, and their children are: Benjamin F., 
born August 31, 1856, residing on his father's farm 
in Morris township; Charles Osborne, born July 20, 
1858, a resident of Sycamore, Greene Co., Penn., and 
married to Amanda Sanders; Hugh Hanna.born Au- 
gust 27, 1860.1iving with his parents; Sarah Hanna, 
born May 3, 1863, wife of Clark Wilson, and residing 
in the northern part of the county. In 1890 Mr. 
Dille retired from the farm, removing to Pros- 
perity. In politics he is a Democrat, and he and 
his wife are members of the Upper Ten Mile Pres- 
byterian Church at Prosperity. 



JJOSIAH KERR was born May 2, 1839, in 
Washington county, Penn. He is of Scotch 
) descent, James Kerr, the earliest pioneer of 
the family name, being a son of James Kerr, 
a native and lifelong resident of Scotland. James, 
his son, when yet a boy, came to America, and 
made a permanent home in Washington county, 
Penn. He was twice married, and reared a large 
family of children. He was a miller and wheel- 
wright l)} r trade, which vocations he followed 
through life; he died in 1869. 

James Kerr, father of subject, was the second 
son by his father's first marriage, and was born 



1438 



WASHINGTON COUNT)'. 



December 16, 1S15, on the home farm in tins 
county, where he grew to manhood. He was mar- 
ried to Mary Crawford, who was born June 2, 
1816, also a native of Washington county. Ten 
children were born to their union, four of whom 
are now living. Mr. Kerr was an active politician; 
he was justice of the peace three years, served 
several times as judge of elections, and also held 
the offices of supervisor, auditor and school di- 
rector. He and his wife were active members of 
the Presbyterian Church, in which he was an 
elder. He died December 25, 1891, having been 
preceded by his wife September 4, 1889. 

Josiah Kerr, the second child in the family of 
ten children born to James and Mary (Crawford) 
Kerr, was reared and educated on the home farm 
in North Strabane township. On November 7, 
1866, he was united in marriage with Miss Mar- 
garet J. Patterson, who was born September 21, 
1835, in the house where she was married. Her 
father, Ezra Patterson, was born in 1800, in 
Adams county, Penn. , where he was afterward 
married to Nancy Horner, who was born June 10, 
1800, in Washington county. They reared the 
following children: William, Joseph B. and David 
W. (twins), James, Margaret (Mrs. Kerr). Sarah 
E. (wife of P. B. Dow), Anna M. (Mis. W. H. 
Murray), Elizabeth, John S. and an infant, the 
latter three of whom are deceased. Mr. and Mrs. 
Patterson were active members of the United 
Presbyterian Church at Pigeon Creek. He died 
December 4, 1863, and on January 28, 1892, Mrs. 
Patterson was laid to rest: she had passed her 
uinety-second birthday. 

To the union of Mr. and Mrs. Josiah Kerr have 
been born two children: Mary A. and James F. 
Mr. Kerr has ever been identified with every move- 
ment tending to promote the general good of the 
community, is actively interested in politics, and 
has held the office of township auditor. He and 
his wife are members of the Fairview Presbvterian 
Church. 




NDREW JACKSON. The Jackson family 
were numbered among the first of those 
heroic men and women who. leaving child- 
hood's home and early friends, braved in- 
numerable perils to establish civilization in 
the unbroken wilderness. When we read the record 
of these early martyrs we may well exclaim with 
the poet : 

Whom do we call our heroes, to whom our praises sing? 
The pampered child of fortune, the titled l«>nl or king? 
They live by others' labor; take all and nothing give. 
The noblest types of manh I are those who work to live. 

In 1772 two brothers, Joseph and Philip Jack- 
son, came from their Eastern home in search of 
Government laud, and, crossing the mountains. 



pushed on till they stood on the western shore of 
the Monongahela river, within the limits of what 
is now Washington county. They were finally at- 
tracted by t he heavy timber and thick shrubbery 
indicative of fertile soil, and pausing on the bound- 
aries of Hanover township, proceeded to mark out 
an extensive claim with their tomahawks. Their 
only weapons were two trusty "flint-locks," with 
which to defend themselves against the prowling 
beasts of the forest or a more wily human foe. 
Traces of Indians were plentiful, and with the ut- 
most caution did the young men move from tree to 
tree, marking off their claim, and ever listening for 
the stealthy footfall of moccasined feet. They suc- 
ceeded in thus taking up an immense tract of land, 
but desiring to form a colony, returned to their 
homes before making any improvements. By offer- 
ing every possible inducement, they persuaded a 
number to return with them and seek a fortune in 
the " far West.'' Any article of clothing was ac- 
cepted in lieu of payment for land, some giving a 
hat, or shirt, or any article most easily spared. 
When the colony was at length fully organized, 
they bid a last farewell to friends and neighbors, 
and with the necessary supplies began the toilsome 
journey over the mountains, finally arriving safely 
at their destination. A rough shelter of poles and 
leaves was immediately erected, which was soon 
supplanted by log cabins, and religious services 
were then held regularly. In the absence of any 
minister, jirayer meetings were held, and a church 
being organized, the two Jackson brothers were ap- 
pointed as the first elders, both of whom con- 
tributed liberally to its support. It is impossible 
to exaggerate the intrepid spirit and untiring 
energy of these men, who gave their lives that fut- 
ure generations might enjoy the blessings of a 
prosperous home. The following children were 
born to Joseph Jackson: Thomas (who moved to 
Belmont county, Ohio, locating on the farm which 
is now the site of Centreville), Edward. Fanny 
(wife of Robert Scott), Itosanna (Mrs. Jonathan 
Potts) and Deborah (married to Joseph Crawford). 
Edward Jackson was reared amid the privations 
of frontier life, receiving a very limited education, 
and from early youth assisted in clearing the land. 
He was married to Rebecca Jackson, a native of 
Maryland, and daughter of William Jackson (no 
relation of Edward), who came to Hanover town- 
ship in an early day. To the union of Edward and 
Rebecca Jackson sixteen children were born, of 
whom the following attained an adult age: Eliza- 
beth (Mrs. John Mayhew, of Pugh, W. Va. I, Mary 
(wife of David Fulton, of Hanover township), 
Lydia (Mrs. John McCullough, of Florence), 
William (of Hanover- township), Edward, George, 
Thomas. Andrew, David, Simeon and Rebecca. 
Of these Joseph E. and Andrew are yet living. 
The father was originally a Whig, but during 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1 139 



Jackson's administration joined the Democratic 
party. In religious connection be was a zealous 
member of the M. E. Church, although reared 
in the Presbyterian faitb. He died in 1848, 
having been preceded by his wife about live months. 
They are buried in the cemetery at Florence. 

Andrew Jackson was born January 31, L815, on 
the old home place, where his grandfather bad set- 
tled forty years before. He attended the rate 
schools a few months during the winter season, but 
was early trained to farm work, his first duty in that 
line being to walk along with his father and keep the 
weeds from the coulter with a stick, as the farmer 
plowed with a wooden mould board. On February 
18, 1849, Andrew Jackson was married to Sarah 
Campbell, who was born March 15, 1818, a 
daughter of Launcelot Campbell, of Smith town- 
ship, this county. Mr. and Mrs. Jackson have had 
two children, viz. : Margaret Sylvania (Mrs. Jona 
than Tucker, of Hanover township) and Ellsworth 
(an agriculturist of Hanover township). The par- 
ents began wedded life on their present farm, which 
he purchased from the heirs of Judge Redick, who 
were then living in Illinois. Mr. Jackson has de- 
voted his entire attention to his farm, which has 
prospered under his care. He is a most agreeable 
companion, possessing an interesting fund of gen- 
eral information. Politically he was formerly a 
Whig, and now votes the Republican ticket, but is 
not bouud by party lines on special occasions, and 
is a bitter enemy of monopolies in every form. He 
is a member of the M. E. Church, his wife being 
identified with the Presbyterian Society. 



T It ENRY STOLLAR, a retired farmer of East 
k— «| Finley township, now living in Claysville, 
was born in Schuylkill county, Penn. His 
J] - 1 father, Andrew Stollar, was a native of the 
v same county, where he was reared and 

educated, and, in 1821, Andrew came with the 
family to Washington county. They marie the 
journey in emigrant wagons, and finally settling 
in East Finley township, purchased a farm of 10(1 
acres, which was but slightly improved, and covered 
with thickets. 

Andrew Stollar was married to Rosauna. daugh- 
ter of George Ely, who came to Washington 
county some years prior to the Stollar family. 
The following children were born to this union: 
Peter, Henry. William, Daniel, Rosanna (.Mrs. 
Peter Earnest), Christina (Mrs. Isaac Earnest), 
Catherine (Mrs. George Plants) and Mary (Mrs. 
Henry Sprowls). Mr. Stollar was a Democrat, an 
active worker in the party. In religion he and 
his family were members of the United Brethren 
Church. 

Henry Stollar (the subject of our sketch) was 
born March 12, 1811, and in his boyhood days at- 



tended the subscription schools. The ' ' classic halls 
of learning" were at that date erected from rough 
hewn logs, and each one was furnished with a huge 
fireplace, puncheon floor and other primitive furni- 
ture. In 1832 he was united in marriage with 
Mary, daughter of George Ely, and five children 
were born to their union: Peter, George, Reuben, 
William and James. The mother of this family 
died in 18-10, and Mr. Stollar was afterward mar- 
ried to Jemima, daughter of George Nickerson, of 
West Bethlehem township, this county. They 
have had onedaughter, Sarah (wife of Charles Ely). 
Mr. Stollar first purchased 100 acres of wild 
land, and erected a house upon it, remaining 
there twelve years, when he bought the farm of 
230 acres that he now owns, and which he has 
much improved. He has always been an active 
member of the Democratic party, and cast his 
first vote for Jackson. He is a zealous worker 
in the United Brethren Church with which he is 
connected. 



L 



EWIS ZEDIKER, one of the oldest members 
of the family of that name in Washington 
county, and a citizen of South Strabane, was 
born in that township January 27, 1827. 
John Zediker, grandfather of our subject, was 
a native of eastern Pennsylvania, and in their youth 
he and his brother David, having an eye to the 
grandeur and fertility of the then ''far West," set 
out to "spy the land,'' ostensibly on a hunting 
expedition, and finally arriving in Washington 
county, they were so fascinated with the beauties 
and attractions of South Strabane township, that 
they here resolved to remain and cast their lot. 
John had, while in eastern Pennsylvania, learned 
the trade of blacksmith, which he carried on for 
many years in the county of bis adoption. Soon 
after his arrival he married Margaret, daughter of 
Ludwig Smith, who was among the earliest settlers 
of the county, and the children born to this union 
were Lewis, Susan (Mrs. Joseph Hallam), Eliza- 
beth (Mrs. George Smith), Julia A. (Mrs. James 
Schwisher), Mary (Mrs. Matthew Dook) and John. 
Mr. Smith took a ''tomahawk claim " of nearly a 
thousand acres of wild land, a part of which is now 
occupied by the subject of this sketch. He early 
identified himself with the politics of his section, 
and was prominent among the Federalists. In 
church matters he also took an active interest, and 
in the organization of the Lutheran Church in 
Amwell township he was a prominent factor. In 
this Society he was an elder for many years. 

John Zediker, father of the gentleman whose 
name opens this sketch, was born December 11, 
1st III, in South Strabane township, this county, and 
received his education in the subscription schools 
of the neighborhood. He was married to Mar- 



1440 



1 1 \ VSHINGTON COUNTY. 



garet. daughter of James Guthrie, and they reared 
five children, namely: Lewis, Susan, Thomas, John 
and James. After marriage Mr. and Mrs. John 
Zediker settled on a farm in South Strabane town 
ship, where they passed the remainder of their 
days. Mr. Zediker dying November 6, 1874, Mrs. 
Zediker February 18, 1881. They were active 
members of the M. E. Church, aud among its most 
liberal supporters; politically Mr. Zediker was a 
Whig of the old school. 

The youth of the subject of these lines was 
passed on the home farm, and he attended, as cir- 
cumstances permitted, the subscription schools of 
the neighborhood. He dutifully remained with 
his parents until their death, and after that event 
continued to reside under the parental roof, carry- 
ing on the duties of the farm in company with his 
brothers. They are among the largest landholders 
of South Strabane township, owning at the present 
time nearly 1, 100 acres of choice land. Mr. Zediker 
is a member of the M. E. Church; in politics, 
originally a Whig, he has, since the organization 
of the Republican party, been one of its strongest 
supporters, and has been actively interested in the 
development and improvement of the educational 
system in his locality. 



JOSEPH P. LEECH, a worthy representative 
i of an old pioneer family of Washington 
t county, is a grandson of James Leech, who 
was born in County Down, Ireland, and 
there married to Jane Reynolds, by which 
union were born three children: John, Thomas 
and William. Having decided to try life iu the 
New World, the grandfather, in company with his 
family and a brother Robert, sailed from Ireland 
in 1774. They landed at Philadelphia, where the 
brothers separated, Robert going south, eventually 
settling in South Carolina, while James and his 
family pushed farther west, first locating iu North- 
ampton county, Penn. In August, 177o, they 
came to Smith township, Washington county, and 
in the unbroken wilderness erected their one- 
room log cabin home, which compared very favor 
ably with the homes of the other early settlers. 
With his firearms as constant companions. James 
Leech began the herculean task of transforming 
the unsightly forest into a fertile farm. Eight 
years passed away before civilization had rendered 
the little home comparatively safe from attacks of 
the Indians, and iu the meantime the settlers 
were often forced to flee to the neighboring block- 
house for protection, which blockhouse stood on 
the old Leech farm. Undaunted by the toil and 
privations of this life, James Leech found time 
and strength to take part in the national struggle 
of his adopted country. Her cause was his, her 
liberties dearer to his heart than life, and with the 



beginning of the Revolution he enlisted in a com- 
pany organized by Capt. Joseph Erwin, afterward 
incorporated under Col. Samuel Miles' Pennsyl- 
vania Rifle Regiment. This division finally be- 
came a part of the Thirteenth Pennsylvania, then 
of the Second Pennsylvania, and on Jannary I. 
1778, having served his time, he was discharged 
from the service at Valley Forge. He was paid 
in " Continental money,'' which was worthless, 
and part of it is still in the possession of the 
family. He then returned to the farm in Wash- 
ington county, where he died in December, 1823, 
having been preceded by his wife in 1812. The 
children who were born after the family had set- 
tled in Pennsylvania were as follows: James, 
Robert, Samuel, Margaret (wife of John Cunning- 
ham) and Jane (unmarried), all of whom are now 
deceased, but lived to an adult age. 

James Leech, son of the old pioneer, James, was 
born September 17, 1775, in Northampton county, 
Penn. His youth was passed on the home farm, 
and he received a subscription-school education. 
Early evincing a taste for mechanical work, he 
learned the trade of millwright. He bought a farm 
where the old fort stood, and had a saw aud grist mill, 
to which latter wheat was brought on horseback. 
In 1803 he was united in marriage with Elizabeth 
Wishart, who was born in 1782, in Franklin county, 
Penn., aud came with her parents to Washington 
county when thirteen years of age. James and 
Elizabeth Leech were the parents of the following 
children: James, Jane (wife of James McKeen. of 
Greene county, Penn., both deceased), Nancy (Mrs. 
James McGhee, of Tama county, Iowa, both de- 
eased), John, Robert, David, Thomas, Elizabeth (liv- 
ing with her brother Joseph). Joseph P., Mary (wife 
of A. Phillis, of Smith township), and Pressly. 
Of these children there are yet living: Elizabeth, 
Joseph P. and Pressly. After his marriage 
James Leech settled on a farm iu Smith township. 
In 1812 he entered the war of that period, serving 
under Harrison through the campaign. In poli- 
tics he was a Whig, first a Jackson man, but 
changed on the bank question, and took a very 
active part in the campaign preceding the election 
of President Harrison. He was au enthusiastic 
admirer of his older leader, and did all iu his 
power to secure the election of the sturdy, fearless 
veteran. In ISIS Mr. Leech was appointed a jus- 
tice of the peace, filling that office twenty-two 
years, during which time his rulings were invari- 
ably sustained by the higher courts. He and his 
wife were members of the Seceder Church, and 
then of the Union Church, to which he contributed 
liberally, having given the land for a church at 
Mt. Vernon before the project was abandoned, 
owing to disorganization. The old church stands. 
He was called to his long home June 27, 1852, and 
on June4, 1807, his wife was laid to rest beside him. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1441 



Joseph P. Leecb was born October 21, 1826, in 

Smith township, this county, and received a limited 
education in the subscription schools. He followed 
farming some time, then entered mercantile life, 
conducting a store near Mt. Vernon church (as 
it was then called) for seven years. He then be- 
came a drover, dealing extensively in wool, and 
this business called him to different parts of west- 
ern Pennsylvania and eastern Ohio, where he has 
an extensive acquaintance; he also made frequent 
trips to New York, Philadelphia, Boston and many 
othern Eastern cities, with which he has become 
very familiar. Mr. Leech owns an immense tract 
of prime land which is cultivated under his super- 
vision. He is one of the largest stockholders in 
the Burgettstown National Bank, of which he was 
one of the organizers. Politically he was orig- 
inally a Whig, now a Republican, and he was 
present at the convention when John G. Fremont 
was nominated for President. He is not a poli- 
tician as far as office-holding is concerned. In 
1877 he met with a serious accident, which resulted 
in the loss of his left eye, which was struck by the 
horn of an ox. Mr. Leech is a well built, healthy 
man, stands five feet ten and one-half inches, and 
weighs 160 pounds. He has never married. 



*J 



MRS. ELIZA GRANT is the widow of Noah 
Grant, who was a son of Robert, and de- 
scended from Scotch ancestry. Robert 
• Grant was born and reared on the old 
homestead in Carroll township, Washing- 
ton Co., Penn., and followed farming all his life. 
In early manhood he was married to Harriet Baker, 
a native of Ohio, and twelve children were born to 
them, of whom but two are now living, viz.: L. G., 
who is residing in the far West, and Rebecca 
Colvin, a native of Fallowfield township. 

Noah Grant was born in 1832, in Carroll town- 
ship, Washington Co., Penn., the youngest child 
in his father's family. He received a good educa- 
tion and passed his life in agricultural pursuits. 
In 1855 he was united in marriage with Miss 
Eliza Wickerham, who bore him the following 
children: Ethel (Mrs. Furlong), living in Roscoe, 
Penn. ; Grace, wife of Mr. Orr, editor of a news- 
paper in West Newton, Penn.; Robert, in the sig- 
nal service at Pike's Peak, Colo.; May (Mrs. 
Speers), living at Roscoe, Penn. ; Florence, a ste- 
nographer, in Chicago, and Lydia, living at home. 
Mr. Grant was identitied with the Republican 
party, and was very prominent in educational af- 
fairs. He died April 7, 1886; his widow resides 
near Monongahela, and rents the home farm, which 
contains 100 acres, situated near Monongahela. 
She is a member of the Methodist Church. 



JOHN CULBERTSON HARVEY, one of the 
prosperous farmers of Morris township, was 
born June 9, L828, in Franklin county, Penn. 
His father, John Harvey, was a native of 
eastern Pennsylvania, born near Carlisle. He 
removed to Franklin county in early life, where he 
married Sarah Culbertson, a daughter of Robert 
Culbertson, of Franklin county. They reared a 
family of fourteen children, viz.: Nehemiah K. , 
Agnes, Hannah, John C, Sarah, Ruth T., Mary, 
Robert O, William T., Joseph, Benjamin, Har- 
riet, Catherine and Wilson O, of whom eight are 
living, three in Harrisburg, Penn., one in Dau- 
phin county, one in Newville, one in Cumberland, 
and two in Roxbury, Franklin county. 

John Culbertson Harvey was reared on his 
father's farm in Franklin county, aud received a 
practical education in the neighboring schools. 
He was married April 12, 1853, to Jane, daughter 
of James Kilgore, of Greene county, Penn. Mrs. 
Harvey died October 30, 1874, having become the 
mother of three children: Simpson L., James K. 
and a son who died in infancy. In 1878 Mr. 
Harvey was again married, this time to Ruth T. 
Kilgore, who died March 7, 1891. He removed 
to Morris township, Washington county, about 
twenty-five years ago, and has since resided here, 
giving his entire attention to his farm. Mr. Har- 
vey enlisted March 7, 1861, in Company B, One 
Hundred and Fifty-eighth P. V. I., being drafted 
for nine months but served ten. In politics Mr. 
Harvey is a Republican, and in religion is a mem- 
ber of Mount Zion M. E. Church. Simpson L. 
Harvey, eldest son of John C. Harvey, is married 
to Frances Day, daughter of Bethuel Day, and 
they have one son, Charley Wycliffe; James, the 
second son, married Emma Mounts, daughter of 
William Mounts, of Franklin township, and they 
are the parents of two children: Jennie and 
William. 



J | AMES R. WOODBURN, a well known busi- 
ness man aud successful farmer of East Fin- 
ley township, is the second surviving son of 
Joseph and Ruth (Garrett) Woodburn. He 
was born January 17, 1834, near Taylorstown, 
Buffalo township, Washington Co., Penn., and his 
boyhood and early youth were passed, partly in 
labor on his father's place, and partly at school. 
He received a fair common-school education, and 
attended a normal academy at Millersville (Penn.) 
one term, after which he was engaged in teaching 
nine or ten terms. He made his home with his 
parents until the breaking out of the Civil war, 
when, August 18, 1862, he enlisted in the Ringgold 
Battalion, an independent troop, which afterward 
became the Twenty-second Pennsylvania Cavalry, 



1442 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



and was composed almost exclusively of Washing- 
ton county men. The duty of this body of horse- 
men was, during the early part of the struggle, to 
guard railroads and do "scouting" duty through 
West Virginia. Mr. Woodlmrn also participated 
in the engagements at Cedar Creek, Fisher's Hill, 
Manchester, besides many others of minor impor- 
tance; was wounded in the shoulder in 1863, and 
was sent to the hospital, but afterward served till 
the close of the war, and was mustered out as ser- 
geant. After his return home to resume the voca- 
tions of peace, he was married, on March 14, 1807, 
to Lizzie McClelland, who was born September 14, 
1841, a daughter of Thomas McClelland, of East 
Finley township, and to this union three children 
were born: Joseph L., born March 30, 1871; Jen- 
nie B., born March 25, 1874; and Fannie A., born 
April 11, 1878, all now at home. After his mar- 
riage Mr. Woodburn located on his present place, 
a well-improved, valuable piece of farm property, 
lying about a mile and a half southeast of Clays- 
ville, where he has since conducted a general farm 
business, including stock raising. In 1874 he 
built a large modern barn, and in 1882 erected a 
dwelling that has for elegance and convenience no 
superior and few equals in his township. Mr. 
Woodburn is regarded as an enterprising farmer, 
and one of the intelligent and influential men in 
the community in which lie lives. He is a great 
lover of home and its attractions, and takes pride 
in keeping up with the times in everything per- 
taining to agriculture. He is interested in several 
enterprises outside of farming, and has been a di- 
rector in the First National Bank of Claysville 
since its organization. In politics he is a solid 
Republican, taking a lively interest in the affairs 
of the party. He and his wife are esteemed mem- 
bers of the U. P. Church at Claysville, of which 
he is a trustee. 

If IfENRY EARNEST was born April 11, 
U— J 1817, in Cumberland county. Penn. His 
grandfather, John Earnest, emigrated from 
II — Germany (where he was born in 1784), 
v in the latter part of the eighteenth century, 

and, after landing in America, located in Cumber- 
land county, Penn. He then served two years in 
the Revolutionary war, suffering with the patriots 
of his adopted country, and many times traveling 
barefoot through the deep snow. He was married 
in Pennsylvania, and reared the following chil- 
dren: Samuel, Andrew, David, Henry, George, 
John, Polly and Daniel, all of whom are now de- 
ceased. 

Andrew Earnest was born and reared in Cum- 
berland county, Penn., where he married a native 
of the same county. They settled on a farm in 
that locality, and reared a family of children. 
Mrs. Earnest died in 1826. 



Henry Earnest received a somewhat limited 
education in the usual log cabin schoolhouse with 
its siugle-paned window and primitive furnishings. 
His mother died when he was but nine years of 
age, and the family becoming separated, young 
Henry began to earn his own living at this tender 
age. He was first employed by a farmer, who 
gave him his board and 5 cents a day. In ISIS 
he left Cumberland county and went to Fortress 
Monroe, Va. , where he remained three years. 
He entered the Mexican war as a private in Com- 
pany E, First P. V. Battery, under Capt. Bradford, 
and participated in the following engagements: 
City of Mexico, Chapultepec, Vera Cruz and 
Pueblo. At one time he was in the heart of the 
famous silver mines, 102 miles beyond the City 
of Mexico. At the close of the conflict he returned 
to Fortress Monroe, where he received an honora- 
ble discharge. He then entered the employ of the 
Pennsylvania Railroad, working on the line to 
Westmoreland county, Penn. In 1S50 he was 
married to Mary Maloy, of Cumberland county, 
Penn., and to their union have been born three 
children: William (deceased), Mary (Mrs. Henry 
Birch) and Andrew J. (living with his father). In 
1851 Mr. Earnest came to Washington county, 
Penn., and remained in the employ of the railroad 
company several years, finally purchasing with his 
earnings sixty acres of land in Buffalo township, 
Washington county, which is his present home. 
When he first came to Washington county he left 
one brother, John, and three sisters — Sarah, Polly 
and Ann, of whom he has heard nothing in twenty 
years. During a severe cold Mr. Earnest was 
obliged to have the sight of one eye destroyed, as 
the cold had settled in the optic, and the doctors 
feared that both eyes would otherwise be affected. 
He is a farmer, and gives much attention to stock 
raising. Politically, he is a stanch Democrat, and 
in religion is a member of the Presbyterian Church 
of East Buffalo. 



QEORGE M. ESPY, a leading liveryman of 
Canonsburg. The Espy family were origi- 
nally natives of Scotland, the pioneer set- 
tlers of their name emigrating about the 
time of the Revolution, settling in Pennsyl- 
vania. James Espy (grandfather of the family 
now living in Washington county) was born in 
1780, in Allegheny county. Penn., and was there 
married to Margaret Fife (who was born Septem- 
ber 17, 1782). The young couple purchased a farm 
in Upper St. Clair township, where children were 
born to them as follows: William, Margaret (wife 
of Thomas Fife), Mary (married to Dr. McCor- 
mack), James, Thomas (killed in the Civil war), 
and John. The father was a Whig in politics, 
and served as justice of the peace, also as postmas- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1443 



ter at Upper St. Clair. He was a member and 
elder of Bethel Presbyterian Church. He died in 
1858, his wife in 1852, and the remains of both 
rest in Bethel cemetery. 

John Espy was born on the home farm in Alle- 
gheny county, Penii., and was early inducted into 
t lie mysteries of agricultural pursuits, which he 
followed throughout life. When a young man he 
was married to Margaret, daughter of John Smith. 
Her father was born in Scotland, and for many 
years his home was on the ocean. He finally 
abandoned the sea, after having visited nearly 
every commercial port in the world, and settled in 
Allegheny county, Penn. Mr. and Mrs. Espy be- 
gan life on the home place, where he is yet living, 
a representative citizen and active Republican of 
Allegheny county. He is a stanch iupporter of 
Bethel Presbyterian Church, and is now rilling the 
office of trustee. Their children are as follows: 
Margaret (wife of J. J. Van Email); James, mar- 
ried to Laura Wilson, is living on the home plac»: 
John S., living in Pittsburgh, Penn., is married to 
Alice Nelson; G. Howard, a druggist in New York 
City; W ill F., a druggist in Pittsburgh, Penn.; 
and George M. 

George M. Espy was born February 1", 18(15, in 
Upper St. Clair township, Allegheny Co., Penn., 
and remained at home during his boyhood. He 
attended the Newell Institute at Pittsburgh, 
Penn., two years, then returning home devoted his 
attention to farming. On February 22, 1888, he 
married Mary B., daughter of John Morgan, who 
married Rebecca Hickman. She bore him two 
children, Mary B. and Ella E. In 1890 Mr. Espy 
left the farm, becoming a partner in the Fife 
livery establishment at Canonsburg. In 1892 he 
purchased the interest of Mr. Fife, and now con- 
ducts the entire business. He has a large amount 
of custom, keeping eighteen well-bred horses, 
and having a large stable. He Moys the confi- 
dence of the public as an honorable citizen and 
successful business man. In politics he is a stanch 
Republican, and in religion a member of the Pres- 
byterian Church at Canonsburg. 



DANIEL S. McBRIDE. Foremost among 
\ the successful retired farmers of Smith 
' township is this well-known gentleman, now 
' a citizen of Bavington, this county. His 
grandfather, a native of the Emerald Isle, immi- 
grated to America in an early day, finally locating 
in Robinson township, this county. He married 
in this county, and reared a family of ten sons, 
viz. : Nathaniel, Francis, Alexander, Samuel, 
David, John, Isaac, Matthew, James and William, 
all of whom lived to an adult age, but are now de- 
ceased. The parents died at an advanced age. 
James McBride was born in Robinson township, 



this county, receiving a very meager education in 
the subscription schools. He learned the black- 
smith's trade, following that occupation at different 
places on the Steubenville and Pittsburgh pike, 
and finally becoming a farmer. He was a very 
kind hearted man, and this trait being taken ad- 
vantage of by his friends, resulted in his own 
financial ruin. He was married to Ann, daughter 
of Daniel Stewart, of Robinson township, and she 
bore him children as follows: John (a blacksmith, 
who died in Bavington, this county), Mary (de- 
ceased), Sarah (who died when twenty years of age), 
James (a retired citizen of West End, Pittsburgh), 
Jane (deceased at the age of fourteen years), 
Samuel (deceased at the age of twenty-five years), 
Daniel W. (whose sketch follows), Mary Ann 
(who died wheu aged twenty years), and Susanna 
(deceased wife of Thomas H. Pyles). The father 
of this family was a member of the Democratic 
party. He died in 1852, having been preceded by 
his wife several years. 

Daniel W. McBride was born August 19, 1821, 
in Hanover township, this county, and attended 
the subscription schools of the day. He first fol- 
lowed milling, which he continued for several 
years, afterward renting a farm. In 1852, during 
the " gold fever'' excitement, he went to California 
by the overland route. The journey from St. Jo- 
seph to Sacramento (Cal.) occupied eighty-one 
days, part of the distance being traveled with mules. 
He remained in California until 1S54, then, return- 
ing to Bavington, this county, opened a flour mill, 
having acquired his knowledge of the business 
with no instruction. He continued to conduct the 
mill for twenty-one years, and having amassed a 
comfortable property, moved to his present valu- 
able farm, which contains over three hundred acres 
of excellent land. The success of Mr. McBride is 
but the just reward of his own untiring efforts, 
which have placed him in the enviable position he 
now occupies. He is an active member of the 
Democratic party. Mr. and Mrs. McBride are 
the parents of the following children: James Z. 
(a dentist of Burgettstown, Penn.), John (a civil 
engineer of Allegheny, Penn.), Robert F. (a pros- 
pector of Colorado), Anna Isa, Elizabeth V., Susan 
D., Roena (wife of A. C. Proudfit, of Smith town- 
ship) and Daniel S. (a civil engineer of Portland, 
Oregon). 

JACOB GIBSON, a prominent agriculturist of 
Fallowtield township, is a son of James Gib- 
son, who was born in 1797, and died in 1863. 
Jacob Gibson was born on July 25, 1830, in 
Fallowtield township, Washington Co., Penn., 
and there passed his boyhood. He was drafted in- 
to the army at the first call for soldiers in the Civil 
war, but was obliged to remain at home, as his 
brother was resolved to go, and one of the boys 



1444 



WASHINGTON COUNTY, 



had to stay ou the farm. On December 12, 1865, 
lje was united in marriage with Mary, daughter of 
Robert McMillan, ason of Robert McMillan, whose 
parents were natives of Ireland, and came to Amer- 
ica many years ago. Robert McMillan, the grand- 
father of Mrs. Gibson, was born in 1751, in York 
county, Penn., where he learned cloth dressing. 
He then moved to Beaver county, same State, and 
there followed his trade for several years, finally 
settling on a farm in Washington county. He was 
united in marriage with Elizabeth Thompson, who 
was born in 1751, near Canonsburg, Washington 
county, and they were the parents of three chil- 
dren, of whom Robert is the eldest. The mother 
died in 1814. the father in 1833. 

Robert McMillan, father of Mrs. Jacob Gibson, 
was born in 1808, in Fallowfield township, Wash- 
ington Co., Penn., and in 1837 was married to 
Elizabeth Bennett, who was born in 1812, in Fay- 
ette county, Penn. She died in 1S65, leaving the 
following children: Leander, Harvey, Mary (wife 
of Jacob Gibson), Amauda (married to Smith Car- 
son), Robert (living with his father ou the home 
farm), Jane, Cynthia, and John (who owns a large 
drui,' store in Washington, Penn.). Of this family 
Leander and Harvey were members of the Twenty- 
sixth Illinois Regiment. They served three years 
in the Civil war, and took part in the battle of 
Shiloh, in Sherman's march to the sea, and in 
numerous other engagements. After the war they 
settled in Illinois, where they are now residing. 
Mr. McMillan owns 164 acres of a well cultivated 
stock farm, and, though eighty-five years have 
passer] over him, he is yet able to superintend the 
farm work, being remarkably active for a man of 
Lis age. The men of this family have been active 
supporters of the Democratic party, and in religion 
all are members of the Methodist Church. 

Jacob and Mary (McMillan) Gibson have three 
sons and one daughter. He owns 240 acres of 
laud, and deals extensively in live stock. 



TlOSEPH G. PORTER. This gentleman is a 
prominent citizen of Hanover township, and 
t\ a native of Washington county, Penn. His 
** grandfather, Nathaniel Porter, a native of 
the North of Ireland, was the first member of the 
family to immigrate to America, coming here about 
1770, and first locating in Chester county, Peun. 
After settling in Pennsylvania he married and 

r rd a family of eight or nine children. lie 

kept a tavern in Williamsport, Penn., for many 
years, and his hostelry was a great resort for salt 
packers and people who were crossing the mount 
aius to bring merchandise and salt to western 
Pennsylvania. This property was destroyed in 
the battle of Brandy wine, in the Revolutionary 
struggle. Nathaniel Porter and his wife passed 



their days in eastern Pennsylvania, and died in 
Chester county. 

William Porter was born about 1782 in Chester 
county. Penn.. where he was inducted into the 
mysteries of agriculture, and attended the English 
type of schools. When a young man he was mar- 
ried to Peggy Wallace, who was born in 1784, a 
daughter of William Wallace, and descendant of 
Sir William Wallace, of Scotland. Her father 
and Nathaniel Porter came to America with the 
same party of emigrants. To the union of William 
and Peggy Porter ten sons and two daughters were 
born, of whom the following lived to an adult age: 
James, Wallace, Andrew, Joseph G., Franklin (a 
farmer of Jefferson township) and Sarah (wife of 
Robert Proudfit, of Smith township). During his 
early life the father of this family kept a tavern in 
eastern Pennsylvania, and in 1827 moved to a place 
in Jefferson township, this county, where he fol- 
lowed farming; he voted with the Democratic 
party. He died in 1856, having been preceded by 
his wife in 1834. They are buried in the Paris 
U. P. cemetery. 

Joseph G. Porter was born December 20, 1817, 
in Nottingham township. Washington Co., Penn. 
He learned the blacksmith's trade, which he fol- 
lowed until taken ill with the smallpox. In 1850 
he joined the rush to California during the "gold 
fever " excitement, and walked from Independence, 
Mo., to Sacramento, Cal. ; he remained in Cali- 
fornia until 1854, during that time being engaged 
in mining, and also worked at his trade. He re- 
turned home by water, passing through Nicaragua, 
thence to New York, and finally arriving at home 
in Washington county, Penn. In 1S42 he was 
married to Nancy Fullerton, who was born in 1819, 
in Hanover township, this county, a daughter of 
John Fullerton. The children of Joseph G. and 
Nancy Porter are as follows: John T. (a farmer of 
Hanover township), Joseph C. (a plumber) and 
Melissa (Mrs. John Tucker, of Hanover township I. 
In 1856 Mr. Porter purchased the farm upon 
which he is now residing, and successfully fol- 
lowed general agriculture until the approach of 
old age compelled him to abandon active life. Of 
late years he has been living in retirement, while 
his son, John T., manages the farm. Mr. Porter 
is a genial companion, and in politics is deeply in- 
terested in the welfare of the Democratic party. 




\ICKERHAM, ALBERT G. and ALEX- 
ANDER WILSON are leading repre 
sentative native-born agriculturists of the 
county. Their father, William Wicker- 
ham, was a son of Adam, who- was a son 
of Peter or Jacob, a native of Germany, who immi- 
grated to Amorica at a very early day. making a 
settlement in Westmoreland county, Penn. He 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1445 



married a Miss Schilling, ami the children born to 
them were Peter, Jacob* and Adam. The father of 
this family was a pioneer farmer of the State, and 
became renowned for his exploits with the Indians. 
He died at an extreme old age. 

Adam Wickerham, son of Peter (or Jacob) Wick- 
et ham was born in Westmoreland county, Penu., 
wbence when a young man he came to Washington 
county, where he patented a tract of land on part 
of which Monongahela now stands. He there 
married Miss Shillen, who bore him the following 
named children: George, Peter, William, Mary 
and Sarah (Mrs. Bowsman). The father of this 
family departed this life in 1870, the mother a few 
years later. 

William Wickerham was a native of Washing- 
ton county, born in 1809 on a farm whereon 
Monongahela now stands. He married Nancy 
Phillips, a native of this county, and, after a few 
years' residence in the then village of Williams- 
port, he removed to Carroll township, settling on a 
farm in the horseshoe bend of the Monongahela 
river. Here he and his wife passed the rest of 
their days. He was a stanch Whig, afterward a 
Republican, and at the time of the Civil war, al- 
though well advanced in years, shouldered his 
musket in defense of the Union, being one of the 
one hundred day men. In religion he was a mem- 
ber and liberal supporter of the Methodist Church. 
His children were as follows: Adam, David, 
James, Eliza, Harrison, Margaret, Albert G., 
Emma, Alexander Wilson and John; of these, 
Adam is a resident of Carroll township, on the old 
home farm; Harrison, Albert and John also live in 
Carroll township; Mrs. Eliza Grant is a widow 
living in Monongahela; Mrs. Margaret Teeple is 
in Carroll township; Adam, James and Harrison 
were in the Civil war, serving three years each, 
Harrison being the first volunteer to go to the 
front from Washington county; he was captured 
by the Confederates and confined in Audersonville 
prison thirteen months. 

Albert G. Wickerham was born January 19, 
1844, on the old homestead in that part of Carroll 
township, Washington Co., Perm. , known as 
" The Horseshoe. " He remained on the home 
farm until 1871, when he was united in marriage 
with Elizabeth, daughter of William Galbraith, a 
resident of Carroll township. Mr. and Mrs. 
Wickerham resided on the old place about two 
years after their marriage, when he erected the 
house where they have since resided, on a portion 
of the old estate. Mrs. Wickerham died in June, 
1890, and was buried in the family cemetery. 
She left three children, namely: Mary J., Will- 
iam J. and Nancy A. Mr. Wickerham owns eighty 
acres of the old farm, and conducts a profitable 
business. Politically he is a Republican, and has 
held local offices. 



Alexander Wilson Wickerham was born 
December 20, 1S52, and was reared on the home 
farm in Carroll township until thirteen years of 
age, when he moved to Monongahela. On April 
17, 1S71. he married Rebecca, daughter of John 
Marshall, of a very old and highly respected, 
family of Washington county, and after marriage 
he conducted his father's farm for several years. 
He then removed to his present home in East 
Bethlehem township, the farm comprising some 
seventy acres of prime land. He is, a Republican, 
but not active in politics. The children born to 
Mr. and Mrs. Wickerham are Sarah, Eudora, 
Delia, Archibald, May, Florence, Myrtle and Lizzie, 
all at home with their parents. 




EAZEN FRYE, a worthy representative of 
one of the oldest families of Washington 
county, was born July 5, 1821, on the old 
homestead at Lock No. 4, this county. 
He is a grandson of Abraham Frye, a 
native of either Washington county, Penn., or 
North Carolina, and who became a pioneer farmer 
of Fallowfield township. He married Hester 
Johnson, of North Carolina, and the children born 
to them were Johnson, Noah, James, Benjamin, 
Mary, Abraham, Thomas, Elijah, Hester and 
Smith. Mr. Frye was a member of the Baptist 
Church. 

Thomas Frye, father of subject, was married to 
Anna West, a native of Fallowfield township, and 
the children born to them were: Luke, Reazen, 
Louisa, Eunice, Hester, Lucinda Jane, Abraham 
J., Nancy, Mary E., Smith, and Anna E. The 
mother died in 1861, the father in 1876, and they 
are buried in the Horseshoe Church cemetery. 
He was a Jackson Democrat originally, and during 
the latter part of his life was a Republican. He 
was a member of the Baptist Church, of which he 
was a trustee. 

Reazen Frye attended the old log-cabin school, 
and assisted in clearing the pioneer farm. On No- 
vember 20, 1845, he was united in marriage with 
Carrie B. , daughter of John and Nancy (Dickey) 
Eckels, the former of whom was a native of Penn- 
sylvania, born and reared in Chester county. 
When a young man Mr. Eckels came to Mononga- 
hela, and for some time followed teaming from 
Philadelphia westward, after which he learned the 
trade of carpenter and cabinet maker, which he 
carried on in Monongahela as well as the undertak- 
ing business. He was a soldier in the war of 1812, 
under Maj. Warne. When a young man he mar- 
ried Nancy Dickey, a resident of Monongahela, 
and the children born to their union were: John 
Hamilton. Margaret, Mary, Benjamin, Carrie B.. 
Andrew J.. . annah Ann, Catherine Eaton, and 
Daniel James. The father of this family died in 



1440 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1857, the mother on June 3, 1872, and both are in- 
terred in Monongahela cemetery. In politics Mr. 
Eckels was a Democrat. 

After marriage onr subject and wife located on 
a farm of 120 acres of land situated one mile from 
the Monongahela river, in Fallowfield township, 
this county, and after years of assiduous toil 
finally succeeded in paying for the place. Mr. 
Frye then realized a good sum from the sale of a 
coal vein underlying his land, and with the money 
thus obtained he purchased 143 acres of land in 
Carroll township, to which, in 1874, he moved; it is 
distant about one mile from the business portion 
of Monongahela. To Mr. and Mrs. Reazen Frye 
have been born the following children: Thomas 
F., a farmer of Chase county, Kans. ; Margaret 
Emeline, wife of Samuel Richardson, living at 
Lock No. 4; John Hamilton, farming on his fa- 
ther' sold property at Lock No. 4; Stephen Reed, in 
the United States Mail Service; Eliza Adeline, de- 
ceased at the age of eighteen years; Hester Ann, 
who died when seven years old; James D. , who 
died at the age of five years, and Carl, who passed 
away at the age of ten months and twenty days. 

Although now retired from active business life, 
Mr. Frye is interested in the buying and selling of 
stock. Politically he was originally a Democrat, 
but a visit to the South, some time prior to the 
breaking out of the war of the Rebellion, brought 
about a revolution in his ideas in respect to poli- 
tics, and he has since been active in the ranks of 
the Republican party. 



JAMES E. RANKIN. Of the well-known 
pioneers of Washington county, the Rankin 
family, of which this gentleman is a member, 
is mentioned among the leaders. John 
Rankin was born in Winchester, Va., of Irish 
descent, and came with his parents to Washing- 
ton county, Pe'nn., about 1774, bringing colored 
help with him from Virginia. He had a family 
of eight sons and two daughters, nearly all of 
whom were born in Winchester, Ya. He located 
in Ml. Pleasant township, this county, securing 
1,800 acres of choice land, then a vast wilderness, 
which is now transformed into some of the finest 
farms of Washington county. Here he erected a 
log cabin, and made such improvements as were 
possible, being in constant danger from the treach- 
erous savages. But bravely and patiently he 
struggled on, establishing the pioneer home. After 
his sons had grown to manhood one of them, 
James, joined a part)' who went to establish a col- 
ony in Kentucky. They arrived safely, but dur- 
ing the return trip were attacked by Indians, and 
James was killed, his fate being but one addition 
to that of the many pioneers who were practi- 
cally martyrs to colonization. The parents of 



James passed the remainder of their lives on the 
frontier home, both dying the same year. 

Samuel Rankin, youngest son of John, was born 
July 18, 1709, in Winchester. Va., and came to 
this county in 1774. On January 7, 1790, he was 
married to Jane McConahey, who was born Feb- 
ruary 18, 1775, daughter of a pioneer settler. 
The following children were born to their union: 
William. John, David, Matthew, Samuel, Stephen,. 
James, Matilda, Abigail and Jane. Of these 
children Jane is the only one yet living. She is 
unmarried. The others lived to an adult age, and 
were citizens of Washington county. Samuel 
Rankin became a wealthy farmer, and always 
lived on the old home farm, situated about two 
miles northwest of Hickory, this county. In 
politics he was a Democrat, and was one of the 
famous minute-men. In religion he and his wife 
were members of the Union Church. He died in 
October, 1820, being followed by his wife July 
20, 1809, in her ninety-fourth year. The remains 
of both lie in the U. P. cemetery at Hickory, Mt. 
Pleasant township, this county. Their children 
were as follows: William, born November 24, 
1796 (deceased January 13, 1884); John, born 
April 4, 1798 (deceased in April, 1866); David, 
born February 15, 1800 (deceased July 27, 1858); 
Matthew, born February 15, 1802 (deceased in 
June, 1880); Matilda, born March 22, 1804 (de 
ceased in February, 1875); Samuel, born June 3, 
1806 (deceased May 27, 1834); Abigail, born in 
October, 1808 (lived on the old homestead until 
her death); James (deceased, mentioned below); 
Stephen, born August 20, 1813 (deceased in Feb- 
ruary, 1S77); and Jane, born February 6, 1817 
(living in Burgettstown). 

James Rankin was born March 24, 1811, in Mt. 
Pleasant township, and passed his youth on the 
old home place, receiving his education in the log 
schoolhouse of the day. In December, 1834, he 
was married to Martha V. Stevenson, who was 
born in 1813. daughter of James Stevenson, of 
Smith township, thiscounty. Janies Stevenson was 
a native of Washington county, and was there mar 
ried to Jane Vance, who bore him children as fol- 
ows:Ann(Mrs. Alexander Hays), John S., Elizabeth 
(Mrs. S. J. Ghist). Mary (wife of Patterson Vance), 
Maltha V. (married to James Rankin), Joseph, Ed- 
gar and Rachel J. (wife of John B. Phillis). Mr. 
Stevenson followed the vocation of a miller, after- 
ward opening a carding works, and was also en- 
gaged in undertaking. He was first a Democrat 
in politics, then became a Whig, and afterward 
united with the Republican party. He was 
formerly a member of the Presbyterian Church 
known as the Raccoon, and when the Burgetts- 
town Church was organized, became a regular at- 
tendant of that Society. 

James and Martha (Stevenson) Rankin first set- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1447 



tied on a farm in Mt. Pleasant township, this 
county, and in 1868 moved to an adjoining place, 
coming to Burgettstown in L884. They have had 
the following children: Samuel N. (enlisted in 
Company D, Twenty-eighth New York Regiment; 
he served three months, then re-enlisted, and in 
lMi:! entered the secret service under Gen. Banks, 
and was missing while en route to Richmond), 
James E., Jane E. (Mrs. John P. Campbell), Will- 
iam Ray (who was drowned in 1846), John P. (liv- 
ing in Baker City, Oreg.), Joseph Vance (living 
in Wichita, Kans.), David A. (accidentally killed 
when fifteen years old, in Wichita, Kans.), and 
Anna M. James Rankin was a popular and enter- 
prising citizen, having won success by liis own ex- 
ertions. He was a warm friend of educational prog- 
ress, and in religion a member of the Mt. Pros- 
pect Presbyterian Church, of which he wasa ruling 
elder tor twenty-eight years. He died July 27, 
1887, at Burgettstown, this county, where his 
widow is yet living. He was justice of the peace 
for many years. 

James E. Rankin was born in 1838 on the farm 
in Mt. Pleasant township which is yet his home; 
he received a district-school education and worked 
on the farm. On November 15, 1877, he was 
united in marriage with Mary Walker, a native of 
Cross Creek township. Her father, John N. 
Walker, was born in 1808, iu Cross Creek town- 
ship, this county, and on November 18, 1830, mar- 
ried Ann Vance, who was born in 1812, in Cross 
Creek township. They settled on a farm near 
their birthplace, and reared the following family 
of children: Rachel (deceased in May, 1S71, wife 
of R. S. Donaldson), Alexander (living in Elders- 
ville, this county), William Vance (a farmer), 
James (living in Cass county, Neb.), Elizabeth 
(wife of John Lawton, of near Larned, Kans.), 
Hannah (married to J. P. Reed, of Larned, Kans.), 
Mary (Mrs. J. E. Rankin), Virginia (living with 
her parents), John N. (living in Cross Creek town- 
ship), Joseph (deceased in 1874), Frank (deceased 
in 1856) and Cynthia (married to Samuel Wilson, 
of Santa Anna, Cal.). The father of this family 
was an active member of the Democratic party. 
He died February 15, 1882, and was laid to rest by 
the side of his wife, who passed away May 15, 1870. 

Mr. and Mrs. Rankin have passed their married 
lives on the home farm, which contains 200 acres 
of well-cultivated land. They are members of the 
Presbyterian Church, and in politics he is an act- 
ive Democrat. 



V\ Al RS ' JANE CARROLL. Among the brave 
\Jy| pioneers of Washington county, and they 
Ml I are many, none have surpassed, in bravery, 
I - 1 intelligence and perseverance, the mem- 
bers of the Carroll family. 
Robert Carroll and wife, accompanied by his two 



brothers, John and Hamilton, and a sister Jane, emi- 
grated in 1760 from Ireland to America, locating 
in a place called Miugo, western Pennsylvania, 
thence moving in a few years to East Finley town- 
ship, Washington county, where they settled on 
one of the headwaters of Wheeling creek, near 
the present postoffice of Gale, and began cutting 
down the forest trees until a space was cleared for 
the log cabin (perhaps the first in that district), 
which they soon erected. Like all the pioneer 
settlers, they were in hourly danger from the hostile 
savages, and endured the inevitable hardships of 
backwoods life. Iu 1781 work began in earnest, 
and Washington county was founded. In the 
summer of that year, John and Hamilton Car- 
roll, who resided with their brother Robert, went 
out one morning, and when but a short distance 
from the cabin both men were shot down by the 
Indians. Robert's wife (who with her two children 
was in the cabin) heard the report, and knowing 
the boys had no firearms with them, immediately 
grasped the situation; she snatched the infant from 
his couch and with him in her arms, and her little 
son of four years clinging to her side, ran to a 
cornfield near by, where she waited till the Indians 
reached the cabin. The faithful dog remained on 
guard at the door, and barked vigorously at the 
murderers, who were obliged to kill him before 
they could enter the house. The heroic mother 
knew when the barking of the dog ceased that 
the Indians were busy ransacking the house, and 
immediately taking advantage of the opportunity, 
ran for life to the nearest fort, which was five miles 
distant (now at Prosperity), though she had to trav- 
el much farther; but she reached it safely at last, 
the infant in her arms, and little James running 
by her side. While these terrible scenes were in 
progress, the husband and father was absent, having 
left home a day or two before, and gone to a mill 
on the Monongahela river. On returning home, he 
was horrified to find the floor stained with blood, 
and other evidences of the presence of the maraud- 
ing savages. Almost heart-broken, the poor man 
hurried to the fort, and was overjoyed to find his 
wife and children safe within, but heard with 
anguish of the terrible fate of his brothers. A few 
days later a party of men left the fort, and finding 
the dead bodies of John and Hamilton (whose 
scalps the Indians had taken as trophies), buried 
them in what has since been known as the Car- 
roll graveyard; these two victims of Indian fury 
being the first who were there interred. The 
burying ground is but a short distance from 
where the cabin stood. After all traces of the 
Indians had disappeared, Robert and his wife re- 
turned home, and were not again molested. The 
infant Robert, who was saved from the Indians by 
his mother, grew to manhood, and married Mar- 
garet Craig, who bore him one daughter, and 






1448 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



James, whose little feet proved of such good 
service on that memorable day, was united in 
marriage with Margaret Marshall, and to their 
union the following children were born: William, 
Robert, John. Hamilton, James, Hugh, Joseph, 
Thomas, Mary and Jane. 

Hamilton Carroll was born April 1 5, 1804, in 
East Finley township, Washington county, and 
was early inured to the toil, danger and privation 
of frontier life; his education was of necessity very 
limited. On April 5, 1832, he was united in mar- 
riage with Jane Marshall, who was born October 
10," 1X1)7, daughter of Gabriel Marshall, of East 
Finley township, who was also of Irish descent. 
The children born to this union were Marshall, 
born March 10, 1833 (deceased in 1890; he always 
lived at home assisting in the farm work, and caring 
for his parents); James Bell, born December 27, 
1834 (deceased January 15, 1836); Martha, born 
October 30, 1836 (living at home and assisting with 
household duties); Robert M., born April 18, 1839 
(of whom further mention is made); Anderson, 
born January 10, 1841 (a farmer, living near Pleas- 
ant Grove, East Finley township, this county); 
William David, born September 5, 1844 (deceased 
October 23, 1862); Mary Margaret, born March 
13, 1847 (deceased January 7. 1852); Eliza Jane, 
born December 27, 1848 (wife of George Mont- 
gomery, of East Finley township), and John, born 
March 15, 1851 (married to Olive Post, and living 
in East Finley township, this county). Robert M., 
of the above family, enlisted August 22, 1861, in 
the first Virginia Cavalry, and on February 14, 
1862, whs killed at Blooming Gap. Va. His corpse 
was sent home, and with it came the following 
order: 

Drv. Headquarters, Camp Chase, Va., Feb. 15, 1862- 
Spt rial Order, tfo. 57. 

Robert ( larroll, a private of ( lapt. Farrabee's company, 
1st Va. ( lavalry, having been killed, after capturing three 
wagons from the enemy, aided by two other privates of 
that company (David Howell and Franklin Jones), will 
he escorted by the two privates mentioned to his resi- 
dence and the body delivered to the family of the de- 
ceased man, with compliments of the Commanding Gen- 
eral. Had be lived lie would have received promotion. 
The expenses of the escort and burial will be paid. 

By command of Brig. <4en. Sander. 

II. ('. Armstrong, a. a. a. Gen. 

Soon after his marriage Mr. Carroll began farm- 
ing on the farm where his widow is yet living, 
which is situated about half a mile northwest of 
Gale postoffice, in Fast Finley township. Here he 
passed the remainder of his life, successfully pur- 
suing the vocation of agriculture. During the war 
he took an active part in the home musters. In 
politics Mr. Carroll was a stanch Republican, and 
a valued member of the party. He possessed 
unusual vitality, and was capable of great phys- 
ical endurance. In religious faith he was a member 
of the U. P. Church. He died in 1890; his widow, 



who is also a member of the U. P. Church, sur- 
vives him, enjoying in her old age a respite from 
the cares and sorrows of earlier life; she is much 
esteemed and respected. 



liOHN B. CARSON. The Carson family have 
. I for many years been prominently associated 
\\\ with the leading citizens of Washington 
county. Thomas Carson was born in eastern 
Pennsylvania, and coming to Washington county 
many years ago, was married to Mary Gibson, a 
native of Kentucky. They settled on the farm in 
Fallowfield township, which is yet owned by their 
descendants, and he also followed shoemaking, also 
serving many years as justice of the peace. At 
one time he was pursued by the Indians, and trav- 
eled seventy-five miles in one day, carrying his 
rifle, and thus escaped. He died in 1848, leaving 
the following children: Elizabeth (wife of James 
Young), Thomas G., Mary (Mrs. Grable), James 
S., John B., Ann (Mrs. Grable) and Charlotte 
(wife of John Carson). 

John B. Carson was born in 1802, on the old 
place on Pigeon creek, in Fallowfield township, 
Washington county, where he grew to manhood 
and received a district-school education. When a 
young man he was married to Sarah Scott, who 
was born in 1813, in Fallowfield township. The 
young couple first settled on a farm on Pigeon 
creek, and in 1846 moved to the homestead of 140 
acres where their children are yet living. Mr. 
Carson voted with the Democratic party, serving 
in various offices, and in religion Mrs. Carson was 
a member of the Baptist Church. He died Jan- 
uary 27, 1872, and September 17, 1887, his wife 
was laid beside him. Their children were hern 
as follows: Newton (who was a real-estate dealer 
and founder of West Belle Vernon , deceased Decem- 
ber 24, 1888), Mary (wife of Jackson Carson, of 
Fallowfield township), Smith (a farmer, living on 
Pigeon creek), Lewis (living in West Pike Run 
township), John B. (residing in Allen township), 
Jerome G. ,and Sarah J. (deceased). 

John B. Carson, son of John B. and Sarah 
(Scott) Carson, was born in 1848, in Fallowfield 
township, Washington county. He attended the 
schools of the county, afterward went to the South- 
western State Normal School at California, and 
afterward taught five terms near the home neigh- 
borhood. In 1874 he was united in marriage with 
Melissa Duvall, a native of East Pike Run town- 
ship, this county, a daughter of J. P. and Sarah 
(Robison) Duvall. the father born in East Bethle- 
hem township, and the mother a native of Wash 
ington county; both parents are now living in East 
Pike Run township. After his marriage John B. 
Carson located on the 130 acres in Fallowfield 
township, where he is now living. In 1874 he 



U'ASHIXGTOX COUNTY. 



1449 



erected a good house, and in 1S81 built a new 
barn. He is a prosperous farmer; in politics he 
votes the Democratic ticket. Mr. and Mrs. Carson 
are members of the Zion Disciple Church, in which 
he serves as an elder. They are the parents of sis 
children, namely: Bertha L., Val C Sarah Mabel, 
John Parker, Viola Isabelle and Jefferson P. 



Hi ARRY C. SCOTT. Joseph Scott, the old- 
est representative of the Scott family in 
Washington county, was born about 1761 
— ' in Scotland, coming to America during 
r the latter part of the eighteenth century. 

He first located in York county, Penn., where 
he was married to Martha Paden, who was born 
in 1703. Prior to 1788, when Washington county 
was very sparsely settled, he came from York 
county, and made a home in the eastern part of 
Hanover township, this county, near Raccoon 
creek, securing control of an immense tract of wild 
land. A cabin was erected, which famished them 
protection, and although deprived of many of the 
luxuries of life, they were soon able to build a 
comfortable home. The story of the struggles, 
hardships and privations of early pioneers has 
often been told, and the lives of this earnest and 
self-reliant couple were similar to those of their 
comrades who undertook the arduous task of mak- 
ing the wilderness "to blossom as the rose." In- 
dustry finally was rewarded; they became wealthy 
and highly respected citizens, and passed the 
remainder of their lives surrounded by children 
and friends. They died at a ripe old age, in full 
connection with the "Old-School Presbyterian" 
Church, in which they had been reared from in- 
fancy. Politically the grandfather was a Demo- 
crat. To this worthy couple were born two sons 
and three daughters, all of whom lived to an adult 
age. 

Joseph Scott, a son of the pioneer Joseph, was 
born in 1800, and passed his early life on the farm 
of his father, amid the privations of a frontier 
home, receiving a limited education in the sub- 
scription schools. In 1830 he was married to Isa- 
belle, daughter of Samuel Nelson, and the following 
children were born to their union: Louisa (Mrs. 
John Camden, of Mt. Pleasant township), born 
February 19, 1831; William (a farmer of Beaver 
county), born October 20, 1S33; Margaret, born 
February 5, 1835 (died unmarried January 5, 
L865); Mary Jane, born Angust 20, 1837, deceased 
in infancy; Elizabeth, born October 20, 1839 (wife 
of S. J. Dennis, a merchant of Wellsville, Ohio), 
and Joseph D., born November 13, 1843. Mr. 
and Mrs. Scott resided on the home farm during 
life, and he devoted his entire attention to agricult- 
ure. In politics he was a Democrat, and in re- 
ligion he and his wife were members of the Rob- 



inson TJ. P. Church. He died September 28, 
1873, and his widow survived him until September 
10, 1886. They are buried in Florence cemetery. 

Benjamin Scott was born June 2, 1792, in Hau- 
over township. Washington Co., Penn. He re- 
ceived a subscription school education, and, work- 
ing in his father's mill, learned the business, 
which he followed several years. When a young 
man he was married to Susan McKinley, who was 
bom in 1800, daughter of Hugh McKinley, of 
Washington county, Penn. They settled on a 
farm near that of his parents, and the mill having 
been sold, he afterward devoted his entire atten- 
tion to agricultural pursuits, meeting with signal 
success. Their children were born as follows: 
Alexander, Joseph, Sophia, Benjamin, Sarah 
Jane, Patterson, John, Susan and Elizabeth. Mr. 
Scott took an active interest in the welfare of the 
Democratic party, and lie and his wife were, both 
socially and financially, leading members of Cross 
Roads Presbyterian Church. In 1877, after long 
and useful lives spent together, both parents 
passed from earth, the father aged eighty-five and 
the mother aged seventy-seven years. 

Patterson Scott was born March 18, 1835, in 
Hanover township, and was reared to farm pur- 
suits, receiving his education in the common schools. 
On October 16, L868, he was united in marriage 
with Eliza J. Miller, who was born March 16, 1837, 
in Harrison county, Ohio, daughter of Daniel, and 
granddaughter of John Miller, who was born in 
1806, in Frederick county, Md. John Miller came 
to Rumley township, Harrison Co., Ohio, where he 
purchased land of the Government, at one time 
owning 215 acres. Ou arriving at Rumley town- 
ship he was obliged to cut his way through the 
woods, around his lands, and camped out while 
building his cabin. He was the father of nine 
children, viz. : Daniel, David, John, Jacob, Joseph, 
Catherine, Hannah, Polly and Sarah. Daniel 
Miller (father of Mrs. Patterson Scott) was born 
in 1788, in Frederick county, Md., and coming to 
Harrison county, Ohio, with his parents, shared all 
the hardships of pioneer life. In 1817 he was 
married to Susan Lowmiller, who was born in 1796, 
in Dauphin county, Penn. , a daughter of John and 
Catherine (Long) Lowmiller, who came to Harrison 
county in 1800. The children of Daniel and Susan 
Miller were as follows: Catherine, Elizabeth, Sa- 
rah, John, Henry, Susanna, Rebecca, Margaret, 
Abigail and Eliza J. (Mrs. Patterson Scott). 

Mr. and Mrs. Scott began wedded life on the 
home place in Hanover township, where he carried 
on general farming and an extensive stock raising 
business. Mr. Scott was a representative farmer; 
in politics he was an enthusiastic Democrat, and 
served in various local offices. He died October 
24. 1883, and was buried in Florence cemetery. 
The children of his family are as follows: Henry 



1450 



WASHINGTON COUNT) 



C, Margaret C. , Susan E. and John M. Since 
the death of her husband Mrs. Scott has had 
charge of the farm, which is now managed by her 
son, Harry C. Mrs. Scott is a member of the 
Cross Roads Presbyterian Church, with which her 
husband was also actively identified. 



Fit LLISON D. SWART is a descendant of 

1/ 1\ Philip Swart, who emigrated from Germany 

lp^\ with his family in about 1786. and locating 

J -^ in Amwell township, Washington Co., 

Penn., settled on a farm of 315 acres, 

which has since been owned by his descendants. 

He died about 1811, leaving two children — Jacob 

and Mrs. Susau Phillips. 

Jacob Swart, son of Philip, was born near the 
old home in Amwell township, this county, and 
passed his early years at home, receiving bis edu- 
cation at the subscription schools of the day. He 
was an excellent business man, and though he 
lived only to the prime of life, he became the 
owner of six farms, aggregating a total of 1,000 
acres. His property was an enduring monument 
to the energy, good judgment and business capac- 
ity of a hardy and persevering pioneer. His wife 
was Miss Sarah Evans, of Amwell township, and 
ten children were born to them: Dorothy (Mrs. 
Mustard), Philip, David, John, Polly (Mrs. 
Huston), Henry, Abraham, George, Hiram and Char- 
lotte. Jacob Swart died on the old farm in Am- 
well township in LSI 5. In politics he was a Whig, 
and he was esteemed by all. 

Hiram Swart, son of Jacob, and the father of 
the subject, of this memoir, was born February 12, 
1812, on Rees creek, Greene Co., Penn., where he 
lived for three or four years, at the end of which 
time his parents brought him to Washington 
county. When he was about twelve years of age, 
the family moved upon the old Swart farm in Am- 
well township, where he lived until about 1874. 
In 1845 he was united in marriage with Charlotte 
McGiunis, and she dying he married, for his sec- 
ond wife, Margaret Keys. He was again married, 
on this, the third occasion, to Mary Hastings, who 
bore him live children: Mary Emma, Allison D., 
David H. , William H. and Maggie V. 

Allison D. Swart was born October 11, 1862, in 
Amwell township, on the old farm where Mr. 
Bailey now resides. Here he remained until he 
was fourteen years of age, when he came with his 
father to the " Squire Hughes place,'' where he re- 
mained until his marriage. He received his edu- 
cation at the Swart and Birch schoolhouses, after- 
ward for three years attending the Pleasant Valley 
Academy, where he ranked among the first as a 
bright student. On November 6, L886, Mr. Swart 
was united in marriage with Emma lams, of Am- 
well township, and they have one son: Hiram lams, 



born December 11, 1887. Mr. Swart passed the 
years 1884 and 1885 in the West, and since his re- 
turn has resided continuously in Amwell, of which 
township he is one of the substantial young citizens. 
After marriage he began farming on the stock 
farm; then removed to his present home. He has 
a fertile, well-cultivated farm, where he carries on 
general agriculture, and he also does a good busi- 
ness in shipping hay. In the ranks of the Re- 
publican party he has proven himself to be a 
rising young politician. In church connection he 
is a Baptist. 




m unity. 



RS. E. L. WELSH. Joseph B. Welsh 
(deceased) was one of those citizens whose 
lives have been so filled with kindly acts 
and noble deeds, that their loss is felt not 
alone by kindred, but by the entire corn- 
Men of such character never die in the 
hearts of those who have been privileged to know 
and love them, but it is only a just tribute to their 
memory that the record of their lives should be 
given to those who follow after, as examples most 
worthy of emulation. 

Joseph B. Welsh was a son of William Welsh. 
who was an associate and compeer of John Sloan, 
a congressman fromWooster, Ohio; Abner Leonard, 
a prominent Presbyterian minister; Jonathan 
Knight, an eminent engineer and member of Con- 
gress from Washington county, Penn. ; Drs. Joseph 
and Jonathan Letherman, eminent physicians; 
also of Hon. Joseph Lawrence, and many others. 
William Welsh served for many years as justice of 
the peace, and in the family library his docket is 
yet preserved, every entry made in clear, neat and 
orderly form, and written by a superior penman. 
The Rev. Dr. Estep, who is widely known as one 
of the most able clergyman of the Baptist faith, 
said of William Welsh that he " never met a more 
logical or clear reasoner " than he. Mr. Welsh 
died many years ago, leaving a widow, eight 
daughters and two sons; one of the daughters was 
the first wife of G. V. Lawrence, of Monongahela. 
Joseph B. Welsh, the second son of William, 
was born December 10, 1815, on the home farm in 
East Bethlehem township, Washington Co., Penn., 
where his father died. He attended Washington 
and Jefferson College for a short time, but his 
services being required on the farm, he soon re- 
turned to assist his widowed mother in educating 
the younger children. He said to his mother: "I 
will remain with you until my sisters are educated 
and provided for," and most faithfully was that 
promise kept. His sisters were educated at the 
seminaries in Steubeuville (Ohio) and Washington 
(Penn.), in due time leaving the maternal roof 
with husbands of their choice, who were all ac- 
ceptable to the family. After the death of his 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1451 



mother Joseph B. Welsh was united in marriage 
with Miss Emily L. Taylor, a lady, who though sev- 
eral years his junior, was yet especially fitted as his 
bride. He was a member of the Legislature iu 
1865-69, aud passed most of his life ou the farm 
where his ancestors had settled nearly a century 
ago. Iu the halls of legislation, as executor or ad- 
ministrator of vast estates, as guardian of minors, 
in the relations of neighbor, husband and father, 
Joseph B. Welsh was equally able and invariably 
faithful to every duty. In social life he possessed 
genial, pleasant manners, was apt in conversation 
or repartee, and having an unusually extensive 
knowledge of men and measures, was a most en- 
tertaining companion. In 187'.) he was thrown 
from a horse, which accident caused a fibrous tu- 
mor in his left side that first began to develop in 
October, 1880. From that date his health rapidly 
declined, and he was laid to rest March 22, ISM, 
after a protracted illness. His last days were 
passed in perfect repose, for believing that the 
God who had given life knew best when that 
life should end, he submitted with the utmost res- 
ignation to his will. Mrs. Welsh is descended 
from one of the most highly respected families of 
Washington county, and is now residing in a beau- 
tiful home in East Bethlehem township. Her four 
daughters have been reared in culture and refine- 
ment, of whom three are married and living in 
Washington county ; they are Rebecca (Mrs. Jo- 
seph Clark, residing in Pittsburgh), Ella (Mrs. 
Jonas Emery), Cora (Mrs. William H. Theakston) 
and Mary, at home. 




'ILLIAM KEENAN. Among the well- 
known and prosperous agriculturists of 
Carroll township, this gentleman is prom- 
inently identified. He, like many of our 
most progressive citizens, traces his an- 
cestry to the Emerald Isle, for the warm blood of 
the true son of Erin flows in his veins. His grand- 
father, James Keenan, was born in County Down, 
Ireland, and passed his entire life on a farm in the 
old country. He reared a family of eight children, 
one of whom came to America. The father lived 
to the advanced age of one hundred years. 

Samuel Keenan. son of James, was born in 1785, 
in County Down, Ireland, where his boyhood was 
passed; lie worked on the farm, and attended the 
schools of the county. In 1813 he was united in 
marriage with Elizabeth Gourley, the only child of 
her parents, who died when she was an infant. 
He erected a pleasant home, and the young couple 
remained in Ireland until 1819, when they sailed 
to America. The}' came to Pennsylvania, and re- 
sided in different parts of Carroll township, Wash- 
ington county, for several years. He then bought 
and moved upon 110 acres of land iu Carroll 



township, and afterward purchased an additional 
120 acres, adjoining the first farm. He was a 
Democrat in politics, and in religion he and his 
wife were members and liberal supporters of the 
Presbyterian Church. Samuel Keenan died in 
1865, aged eighty years, followed by his wife in 
L886, who died in her ninety-fourth year of heart 
failure. Their children were born as follows: 
James, Jane (Mrs. Nelson), Samuel (who died on 
the Atlantic Ocean, and was buried on an island), 
Elizabeth (wife of Robert Coulter), Samuel, Isaac, 
Sarah (married to John F. McElhenny), Robert, 
William, Hugh, Mary Helena, Joseph, Catherine 
(wife of John H. Huston, of Upion township), and 
Isaac (a graduate of a medical college). Of this 
family, Jane, Sarah, William, and Catherine are 
yet living. James and Jane were born in Ireland, 
the others were natives of Pennsylvania. 

William Keenan was born June 30, 1829, on the 
home place in Carroll township, Washington Co., 
Penn. He attended school three months each 
season for three years, aud spent most of his time 
in farm duties. In May, 1859, he was united in 
marriage with Elizabeth, daughter of Henry Myers, 
of Somerset township, this county. The young 
couple rented a place for one year, and in Septem- 
ber bought their present farm, adjoining the old 
homestead. They moved to their new home in 
the following April, and there six children have 
blessed their union, namely: Sylvester (deceased 
in childhood), Samuel (a carpenter, spent four 
years in the West, and is now living at home), Mina 
(wife of Dr. Farquhar), Henry M., John, and Iva 
N., all living with their parents. The home place 
consists of 130 acres, upon which Mr. Keenan has 
erected a handsome residence and other buildings, 
and has made many improvements. He is a Dem- 
ocrat, and has served faithfully as school director, 
road commissioner, assessor, auditor, judge of 
elections, and in various other local offices. Mrs. 
Keenan and her daughters are members of the 
Presbyterian Church. 



I M ARK B. KELSO. Notwithstanding the 
\f<\ fact that this gentleman has been a citizen 
*i| of Washington county for but a few years, 
J -* he has become prominently associated with 
the interests of the community, and is 
recognized as a leading farmer. His parents, 
Benjamin and Martha (Murdoch) Kelso, were resi- 
dents of Allegheny county, Penn., where the fol- 
lowing children were born to them: Rebecca, John, 
George, Mary, James, Nancy, Margaret, Martha, 
Benjamin, Mark B. , Samuel and Elizabeth. Of 
this family Rebecca, George, James, Benjamin, 
Mark B. and Samuel are yet living. Both parents 
were interred in the Robinson Run cemetery. 
Mark B. Kelso was born November 17, 1835, on 



1452 



WASH IN G TON COUN TY. 



the home place in Allegheny county, Penn., where 
his youth was passed. When the Civil war began 
he enlisted in Couipauy G. One Hundred and 
Twenty-third Pennsylvania Regiment,, and among 
the engagements in which he participated may be 
mentioned Fredericksburg and Antietam. At the 
close of the war he received an honorable dis- 
charge, and returned home. He was married to 
Lizzie A., daughter of James and Sarah (Philips) 
McConnell, and children have been born to this 
marriage as follows: Sarah P. (wife of W. M. 
Templeton). Benjamin Edmund, Mattie M. , James 
Alvin and John Mc. In 1876 Mr. Kelso came to 
Washington county, Penn., and purchased 184 acres 
iu North Strabane township, where he has a beauti- 
ful home. In politics he affiliates with the Re- 
publican party, and in church connection the family 
are all members of the United Presbyterian Society. 



JOSEPH P. JEFFREY. The well-known 

family, of which this gentleman is a promi- 

fl nent member, has for many years been close- 

^^ ly identified with the history and progress of 

West Pike Run township. 

Joseph J. Jeffrey was born of Irish parents in 
Chester county, Penn., in 1772, and in 1788 pur- 
chased the old farm in West Pike Run township. 
Washington Co., Penn. In 179P> he was married 
to Betsey Robison, who was born in 1781, in Lou- 
doun county, Va., and the young couple soon 
moved to the farm he had previously purchased. 
The place contained about two hundred acres of 
land, upon which he carried on a profitable busi- 
ness in farming and stock raising. Joseph J. Jef- 
frey died April 9, 1854, having been preceded by 
his wife June 16, 1833. The children born to 
this couple are named as follows: Amor, Job, 
Plessie, Mary, Benjamin and John. 

Amor Jeffrey was born March 21, 1803. on the 
home farm in West Pike Run township, Washing- 
ton Co., Penn., where he learned carding and the 
woolen trade. He followed that business during 
early life, afterward devoting his attention to mill 
ing and agricultural pursuits. On April 6, 1828, 
he was united in marriage with Sarah Gregg, a 
native of Washington county, Penn., born Sep- 
tembers, L805. To this union were born the fol- 
lowing children: Eliza, wife of Henry Gregg, a 
farmer of Greene county, Penn.; Joseph P., sub 
ject of sketch: Anderson; Benjamin F. ; Elizabeth, 
deceased February 18, 1875; Jacob, deceased May 
It), 1SSH; John, deceased March l(i, 1S55; George 
W. , deceased December 25, 1870; James J., de- 
ceased October 18, 1 S7 4 : Eleanor, deceased Octo- 
ber 20, 1876, and Jack-man, deceased January 24, 
1844. The lather was fond of literary pursuits, 
and in political opinion was a member of the 
Democratic party. He died June 15, L 88 5, hav- 
ing been preceded by his wife June 9, 1880. 



Joseph P. Jeffrey was born November 1, 1829, 
on the home farm in West Pike Run township. 
Washington Co.. Penn. His youth and early man- 
hood were passed on the home place, where he 
studied medicine until the death of his tutor in- 
terrupted his preparation. Circumstances then 
arose which prevented his graduation, and for 
thirteen years afterward he worked for one fanner. 
Although he never graduated, Mr. Jeffrey has suc- 
cessfully treated the ills of his friends and kindred, 
and is probably better fitted for practice than 
many who have the title of M. D. affixed to their 
names. Iu 1859 he was united in marriage with 
Nancy Jane Hess, a native of Ohio, daughter of 
John Hess, and they have had three children, viz.: 
Mrs. Margaret Ann Bailey, now living with her 
father; Palmetta (deceased), and Luella (a cult- 
ured lady, married to William E. Robison, the 
genial postmaster of Beallsville, Penn., and pro- 
prietor of the Union Supply Co. store). The 
mother of this family died April 15, 1892. 

Mr. Jeffrey has been proprietor of the principal 
hotel at Centreville, East Bethlehem township, for 
the past seventeen years. In politics he is a mem- 
ber of the Democratic party. Some years ago, 
while picking apples, he fell from the top of a 
twenty-five foot ladder, and though so severely in- 
jured that the physicians declared he could not 
live, his wonderful vitality conquered, but he has 
never fully recovered from the effects. 




JLLIAM G. HORNER is descended from 
one of the oldest pioneer families of 
Washington county, Penn., his grand 
father, William Horner, having come 
hither from Adams county, Penn., in 1800, and 
passed the remainder of his life iu agricultural 
pursuits. He died about the year 1860. 

Joseph Horner (son of William) was born in 1806, 
and grew to manhood on the home farm. He mar- 
ried Catherine Mitchell, who was also a native 
of Washington county, born August 25, 1817, and 
the young people settled on the home farm. The 
following children were born to their union: Will 
iam G., Elizabeth B. (Mrs. Samuel Mitchell, of 
Piatt county, 111.). Nancy C. (wife of David Tem- 
pleton, of North Strabane township), Mary I Mrs. 
Abner Myers, of Somerset county, Penn.), Louisa 
(living at home), and Martha J.. Sarah E. and 
Margaret (all three deceased). Mr. and Mrs. 
Horner were members of the Presbyterian Church. 
The father of this family died May 29, 1ST 1, and 
the mother passed away April 30, 1887. 

William G. Horner was born September 16, 
1834, on the home farm in North Strabane town- 
ship. He was educated in the usual log-cabirj 
country school of the vicinity, but has broadened 
his educational knowledge by observation and ex- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1453 



perience. He has always followed agricultural 
pursuits, arid is the owner of a well-cultivated and 
productive farm, which is furnished with fine stock. 
He is an active politician, and has ever been a leader 
in all progressive movements of the community 
which tend to improve the general welfare. Mr. 
Horner has never married, but his maiden sister, 
who is living with him, assists in providing the 
comforts and luxuries of a pleasant home. 




EV JAMES KENNEY is probably the old- 
est resident of East Bethlehem township 
at the present writing. He is a grandson 
of William Kenuey, a native of Ireland, 
who, coming to America in an early day, 
Located on Brandywine river, in eastern Pennsyl- 
vania, when that locality was an unbroken wilder- 
ness. He married a native of Ireland, and reared 
a family of children.one of whom joined the British 
army, and the little home, which had been won by 
years of privation, toil and danger, was confis- 
cate;!, leaving the parents penniless in their old 
age. The father died at an advanced age, and 
was laid to rest beside the scenes of his labor. 

Benjamin Kenney, son of William, was born on 
the farm in eastern Pennsylvania, and there passed 
his early boyhood, being left a destitute orphan 
when very young. He was then bound out, and 
while serving his apprenticeship learned the trade 
of stone mason, which he followed almost all his 
life. He was married in Cumberland, Md., to 
Elizabeth, daughter of John and Amelia Blair, 
who were pioneers of Tennessee, whither they re- 
moved soon after the marriage of their daughter. 
Mr. and Mrs. Kenuey resided in Cumberland about 
six years, during which time two daughters were 
born to them, Margaret and Mary, both of whom 
are long since deceased. Some years after their 
marriage Mr. and Mrs. Kenney came to Fayette 
county by way of the old " Braddock road;" the 
journey was long and perilous, but the family 
finally arrived in safety at their new home, where 
they resided six years. Here other children were 
born to them, of whom John was the only one who 
lived beyond infancy, and he died at the age of 
fourteen years. In 1802 the parents packed their 
worldly possessions in a cart drawn by one horse, 
and moved to Washington county, Penu. The father 
was then about forty years of age, and had saved 
a small sum of money, which he invested in a tract 
of land in East Bethlehem township, and contin- 
ued to follow his trade in connection with managing 
the farm. Slowly but surely the little hoard of 
savings increased, and the farm was finally given 
into the hands of James. After settling in Wash- 
ington county, four children were added to the 
family circle, namely; James, Wesley (a brilliant 
clergyman and renowned theological scholar), 



William and Rebecca, the latter three being now 
deceased. The father was a Republican in poli- 
tics, and served as one of the first constables of 
Washington county. In religion he was a mem- 
ber of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He died 
in March, 1843, followed by the widow January 
26, 1852; both were very old. 

James Kenney was born January 11, 1806, in 
East Bethlehem township, Washington Co.,Penn., 
and attended the usual log-cabin, puncheon -floored 
and slab seated schoolhouse of the period. He 
has a vivid recollection of the severe old master 
who ruled with the rod to a degree which would 
not now be tolerated, Mr. Kenuey having seen one 
young lady flogged until the blood trickled to the 
floor. As may be supposed, the literary advan- 
tages of such an academy of learning were of the 
most meager character, but these early obstacles 
were overcome by young Kenney. He eagerly im- 
proved each opportunity, for his eyes were upon a 
noble goal — he wished to be a clergyman — and 
with this aim in view the lad carried his Bible to 
the field, perusing its pages while the horses fed. 
In 1827 he was united in marriage with Ann, 
daughter of William Sproat, and she bore him four 
children, viz.: William, a prominent farmer of 
Ford county, 111., Elizabeth (Mrs. Greenfield), 
deceased; Cyrus, a fruit grower of lower Califor- 
nia; and John Fletcher, of Ford county, 111. The 
mother of this family died in 1838, and on Febru- 
ary 5, 1839, the father was married to Patience, 
daughter of Jonathan More, who was a soldier in 
the war of 1812, and died soon after his return, 
from disease contracted in the army. To Mr. Ken- 
ney' s second marriage were born: Benjamin, Anna 
(Mrs. Freeman, of Florida, now deceased), Margaret 
(wife of Wilson Ward), one who died in infancy, 
James (living on the homestead), Sarah and Jo- 
sephine (twins, living with their parents), and 
Mary Manilla (wife of L. M. Cleaver). In 1841 
Mr. Kenney obtained a license to preach, and filled 
his first pulpit at Liberty Chapel, near Washing- 
ton borough; he had eight appointments in his 
first circuit. He was never a member of a Confer- 
ence, preferring to remain at home, that he might 
superintend the rearing of his children. For the 
past five years Rev. James Kenney has been preach- 
ing in the Centreville M. E. Church; he is now 
eighty-seven years of age, his wife being in her 
eighty-fourth year. He has erected all of the 
buildings upon his farm. In politics he votes 
with the Republican party. 



»jr\) ETHUEL DAY (deceased) was bom in 1816 
f^L in Morris township, Washington count) - , 
| J) son of Bethuel Day, who was a native of 
New Jersey, whence he removed to Wash- 
ington county before the beginning of the present 



1454 



WASHINGTOX COl X TV. 



century. Here he married Parmelia Raynor, 
whose ancestors also emigrated from New Jersey, 
and to them were born nine children : Stephen. 
Elias, Sally, Bethania. Jonathan, Hannah, Lemuel 
Fordham, Parmelia and Bethuel, all of whom are 
now deceased, Bethuel Day being the last of the 
family to pass away. 

Bethuel Day devoted his whole life to his farm 
interests, and was known as one of the thorough, 
go-ahead, enterprising farmers in his section. He 
was an active Christian laborer. 1 icing looked upon 
as a leader in religious matters. He was a mem- 
ber of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Mr. 
Day was married in 1842 to Clarissa Teagarden, 
a daughter of Samuel Teagarden, of Franklin town- 
ship, Greene Co , Peun. The Teagarden family 
are of Prussian descent, the ancestors having come 
from Germany and located in Pennsylvania among 
its first inhabitants. For thirteen years after his 
marriage Mr. Day resided in East Finley town 
ship, but in 1856 removed to Morris township, and 
located on the Moses Winget place, about one-half 
mile west of Old Concord, where he resided at the 
time of his death, which occurred December 19, 
1S90. His widow still lives on the, old home 
place. To Mr. and Mrs. Day were born nine chil- 
dren: Oliver, who died at the age of one year; 
Louisa Catherine, wife of Edmond McVay, of 
Greene county; Allison, who died when four years 
old; Jane Parmelia, wife of Oliver Core, of Old 
Concord; Miriam Frances, wife of Simpson Harvey, 
of Morris township: Missouri, wife of Wilbur 
Swaine. of Washington county: John El wood, who 
is united in marriage with Miss Millie S prowls, of 
West Finley township, and resides in Morris town- 
ship: Emma Virginia, wife of Seaman W. Plants, 
of East Finley township, and Herschel, who died 
in infancy. 




many years, and as time sped on children came to 
brighten their home as follows: James, William 
Edward. Jane, Margaret, John, Catherine, Lettice 
and Ann. But that dnead disease, consumption, 
buried its deadly fangs in the frail forms, and one 
by one the children were laid to rest until, of that 
once happy family, but one daughter was left to 
the bereaved parents. 

Lettice McMurray was born about 1812, in Alle- 
gheny county, Penn., where she resided twenty- 
live years. She then came with her parents and 
younger sister Ann to the home in Peters township, 
Washington Co., Penn. The mother and sister 
soon passed away, and Lettice cared for her father 
until his death, which occurred in 1S52. The only 
living representative of her family, she yet resides 
on the farm, having lived alone until her health 
bpcame feeble. She is an earnest member of the 
United Presbyterian Church, and is patiently await- 
ing the happy hour which will reunite her with the 
dear ones gone before. The home farm consists 
of 100 acres of land. 



I ISS LETTICE McMTJRRAY, one of the 

well-known residents of Peters township, 
is a. daughter of Archibald McMurray, 
whose father, James, was a native and 
lifelong resident of County Donegal, Ire- 
land. He followed agricultural pursuits, and in 
early life was married to Margaret McFarlaud, 
also a native of Erin. She bore him three children: 
John. Jane and Archibald. 

Archibald McMurray, son of James and Marga- 
ret, was born in 1760, in County Donegal, Ireland, 
and passed his boyhood in tilling the soil. When a 
young man he was married to Nettie, daughter of 
William Simpson, a resident of the same county. 
After his marriage Archibald McMurray followed 
farming and fishing for some time. In 1801 the 
young couple came to America, first locating in 
eastern Pennsylvania, and afterward settled in Al- 
legheny county, same State. They resided here 



ISAAC HORN, one of the most prominent farm- 
' ers of West Bethlehem township, is a grandson 
j of John Horn, who was one of that township's 
earliest settlers, he having come from east of 
the Alleghany mountains early in the opening up 
of Washington county, locating upon a large tract 
of land in the southern part of the township. 

Here, about 1796, was born Jacob Horn, the 
father of subject. His boyhood was spent in at- 
tending the subscription schools, held in the little 
log-cabin schoolhouses of that period, and subse- 
quently he learned the cooper's trade, which he 
followed for a number of years. At the age of 
twenty one he found himself possessed of little 
more than the education gleaned from the meager 
teachings of the primitive schools, his trade, and a 
strong and rugged constitution. He started man 
fully to work at coopering, making casks, barrels, 
tubs, etc., many of which were used by parties up- 
on whose property were located still-houses. Soon 
after attaining his majority he married Priscilla 
Addeman, a daughter of John Addeman, who was 
then a resident of Morgan township, Greene county, 
and not long afterward he and his young wife 
moved to Harrison county, Ohio, where they lived 
for several years, and here their son Isaac was 
born. Snon tiring, however, of the new country, 
they returned to Pennsylvania, taking up their 
residence upon the home farm, where Isaac still 
resides. Here were born to them the following 
children: Samuel, now living in Iowa: Sarah, de- 
ceased; Demas, a prominent farmer of West Beth- 
lehem township, residing on the farm adjoining 
that of his brother Isaac; John, of near Mills- 
boro, Greene county ; Catherine (deceased); Jacob, 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1455 



who died in early boyhood, and Elizabeth, living 
in Washington county. The father died in 1859, 
having been preceded to the grave by the mother 
in about 1844. 

Isaac Horn was born May 20. 1824, in Harrison 
county, Ohio. When he was about three years 
old, his parents, as above mentioned, returned to 
Pennsylvania, where he has since passed his life. 
His education, like that of his father, was of the 
log cabin school extraction, primitive but sub- 
stantial. Mr. Horn vividly remembers the seats in 
the school, which were made of slabs, as were also 
the desks, and the other furnishings were on a par. 
When not at school, or assisting in clearing and 
improving the property then owned by his father, 
the lad's time was occupied in learning his father's 
trade, coopering. In the boyhood of our subject 
much of the country was yet woodland, and many 
wild animals still roamed the hills and forests. 
In November, 1844, Mr. Horn married Amy, 
daughter of Jacob Cox, of East Bethlehem town- 
ship, and he remained on the old homestead, 
which came into his possession upon the death of 
his father. To Mr. and Mrs. Isaac Horn were 
born the following children: Noah, a merchant of 
Clarktown, Amwell township; Annabel, Priscilla 
and William I., living at home with their father. 
William I. is married to Hannah Craig, of Wesl 
Bethlehem township, andisnow conductingthe farm 
work. Mr. Horn's residence is quiet, yet impos- 
ing, situated in the center of a thriving community, 
about a half mile from Zollarsville, and all the im- 
provements, which are numerous, have been made 
by him. The house was erected in 1800, the barn 
and out-buildings, all of which give his place an 
air of prosperity, having been built a few years 
later. Politically Mr. Horn is a lifelong Repub- 
lican, and in religion a member of the Disciple 
Church. His wife, Amy, departed this life March 
16, 1883, deeply lamented, by not only her own 
family, but by all who knew her. 



T THOMAS CAIN was born January '25, 1823, 
in Greene county, Penn., and is a worthy 
representative of a well-known pioneer fam- 
ily. His grandfather, John Cain, was a 
native of Ireland, and in early manhood 
immigrated to America, locating in Maryland, 
where he was united in marriage with Mary Means. 
About 1785 he came to Greene county, Penn., 
where brothers of his wife had located a year or 
two before. Here the following children were 
born to him: Thomas, Dennis, John, Nancy, Mary, 
Elizabeth and Catherine, all now deceased. John 
Cain, the father of this family, was among the 
early pioneers of Greene county, and shared the 
hardships and dangers of frontier life. He died 



about 1830, and his widow then returned to her 
native Maryland, passing the remainder of her 
life among her relatives. 

Thomas Cain, the eldest son in the above men- 
tioned family, was born in 1784, in Maryland, and 
when a young child was brought by his parents to 
Greene county, Penn. Almost every farmer oper- 
ated a distillery in those days, and the youth of 
Thomas was passed in assisting in that work, and 
in the duties of the farm. He was naturally an 
apt and intelligent boy, and his meager educa- 
tional opportunities were thus supplemented; he 
was also a mechanical genius, and made good use 
of almost any tool. In 1812 he was married to 
Mary Montague, who was born in 1784, a daugh- 
ter of Henry and Rosauna Montague, who left 
County Tyrone, Ireland, in 1792, and after a 
stormy voyage of eleven weeks and three days 
landed at New Castle, Del. They first located in 
eastern Pennsylvania, and soon afterward began 
the long journey to Kentucky, of which State they 
had heard so many glowing descriptions. But the 
severe winter of 1793 set in when the travelers had 
reached Washington county, so they concluded to 
remain there until spring, and made a temporary 
location in Canton township. During this interval 
they met an old frontiersman who had been in 
Kentucky, and, knowing the hostile disposition of 
the Indians at that- time, he advised this family to 
remain in Pennsylvania. Mr. Montague took the 
advice, and proceeding a few miles farther west, 
made a permanent home in Donegal township, 
near the present postoffice of Coon Island. To 
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Cain were born the follow- 
ing children: Henry (deceased at the age of ten 
years), Nancy (deceased wife of James Reynolds), 
Rosanna (who married Patrick Reynolds, and died 
at. a good old age), John (farming in Donegal 
township, Washington county), Thomas (our sub- 
ject) and Henry. Mr. Cain lived in Greene county, 
Penn., for some time after his marriage, and in 
1824 made a permanent home on the old Montague 
farm, near Coon Island, Donegal township, Wash- 
ington county. He was an industrious and suc- 
cessful man, respected by all who knew him. He 
died in 1837. his widow on March 17, I860. 

Thomas Cain, when but a small child, came 
with his parents to Donegal township, Washing- 
ton county, and passed his boyhood on the home 
farm, of which he and his brothers took charge 
when the father died. His education was received 
at the common schools, but has since been supple- 
mented by reading and observation. He has 
always followed agricultural pursuits, and now 
owns a part of the home farm upon which his 
brother Henry resides. Mr. Cain is living with 
his brother John, and has never married. Polit- 
ically he is a Democrat, and in religion a member 
of the Catholic Church. 



1456 



WASHJXGTOX COUNTY. 



IMON WONSETTLER, a prosperous and 

widely-known farmer aud stock raiser of 

West Bethlehem township, is a native of the 

countv, born iu'Amwell township March 6, 

1850. 

Nicholas Wonsettler, grandfather of Simon, was 
born in 1754, in West Bethlehem township, this 
county, aud died at the age of eighty years. He 
had two children, Jonathan and Samuel, the latter 
of whom died in infancy. Jonathan passed his 
early years in assisting his father on the farm, and 
in attending the common schools. He was united 
in marriage with Delia Simmons, a daughter of 
John Simmons, who was of German parentage, and 
to this couple were born the following named 
children: Anna, Elizabeth, Demas and Simon. 

Simon Wonsettler when twenty-one years of age 
bought the farm of fifty-five acres in West Bethlehem 
township, where he now resides. On August 20, 1871, 
he married Clara Garrett, a daughter of Samuel 
Garrett, of West Bethlehem township, and they 
have one daughter. Nora, born September IS, 1876. 
Mr. Wonsettler is a Democrat, and exerts a weighty 
influence in the politics of his vicinity. Both he 
and his wife are earnest members of the Lutheran 
Church. 



djOHX WILLIAMS, a successful farmer of 
! East Bethlehem township, is a sou of Daniel, 
j whose father was a native of West Virginia, 
where Daniel was born. The latter became 
a ferryman on the Monongahela river, and after- 
terward a teamster on the National pike, making 
many trips to Baltimore; and after losing a large 
sum of money in some unfortunate investments, 
died on a farm in East Bethlehem township. He 
was married to Amelia Thompson, who bore him 
children as follows: Mrs. Sarah Ann Gibson, Mrs. 
Mary Aim Elliott. Mr-. Susan E. McCullough 
(living iu West Virginia). Eliza (of Putuam county. 
111. i. Amelia Barbara (of Putnam county. 111.'), 
Hannah Jane (of Lock No. 5, Monongahela river), 
John, and ODe who died in infancy. Of these are 
now living Susan E. and John. 

John Williams was born April 3. 1829, in the 
house now owned by oue Watkins, on a place in 
Easl Pike Run township, Washington county. At 
the age of sixteen he began to learn the black- 
smith'^ trad", and after serving a three years" ap- 
prenticeship, followed that business thirteen years, 
then devoted his attention to agricultural pursuits. 
Ou October 20. 1850, lie was married to Nancy, 
daughter of Robert Gilles, and their children were 
Robert ii.. born October 19, 1851, died August 
29, 1852; Daniel W.. bom December 'J'-'. 1852, a 
farmer of Putnam county. 111. : and Samuel James. 
born April 18, 1856, a farmer of Harlan county, 
Nel\ The mother died April 29, 1856, aged twen- 



ty-eight years ten mouths, and for his second 
wife John Williams was married, on February 7. 
1S58, to Anna, daughter of Curtis and Esther 
Pyles, natives of Washington county, Penn. To 
this union children were born as follows: Ida 
Florence, born June 30, 1S59, died July 7. same 
year; Flora Belle, born October 29, I860, wife of 
Homer Crumrine; Curtis, born June 24. 1863, liv- 
ing in Pittsburgh, Penn.. and Emma May, born 
October 21, 1865, living at home. Mrs. Williams 
was laid to rest December 13, 1S68, aged thirty- 
three years two mouths seven days, and on No- 
vember 29. 1S73. he was united in marriage with 
Ann, daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth Morris. 
Three children have blessed this marriage, as fol- 
lows: Ella M. , born September 18, ls75; Elvarette, 
born October 15, 1877, and Oliver J., boru De- 
cember 24, 1881, who died April 23, 1886. Mr. 
Williams has been au enterprising business man, 
and now owns 122 acres of good land, which he 
devotes to agricultural interests. In politics he is 
a Republican, and has served as auditor and super- 
visor of East Bethlehem township. Mrs. Williams 
and her daughters are members of the M. E. 
Church. 



GLOSSER, JOHN and DEMAS, are repre- 
sentatives of one of the oldest families of 
Amwell township. Their grandfather, John 
Closser, moved from "Old Virginia" to 
Washington county, Penn., about 1790, and, set- 
tling on the farm which is now the property of 
Stephen B. Day, took up a tract of 200 acres, 
which he owned for several years. He was united 
in marriage with a Miss Peck, of Amwell township, 
and to their union were born three sons and two 
daughters: James, Daniel, Anna (Mrs. Chambers), 
A. J. and Athla (Mrs. Van Kirk). Mr. Closser 
had a limited school education, but was a well- 
informed man. Politically he was a Democrat. 
always taking an active interest in the welfare of 
his party and all public affairs of the township. 
In his religious views he was a Quaker. He lived 
on the farm twenty-four years, and after his death, 
which occurred in 1814, it became the property 
of his two sons. 

A. J. Closser was born in 1813 on the old home- 
stead in Amwell township, and remained there 
thirty years, engaging iu farm work. He was 
educated iu the common schools, and was a well- 
read and intelligent man for that period. In 
1842 he was married to Annie Moninger, who 
died in 1847, leaving two sons, John and Frank- 
lin. After the death of this wife, Mr. Closser 
married, in I84r-, Sarah Totteu, and to this union 
were born five sons and one daughter: Demas, 
Henry M., James W. , Samples S., Francis Moran 
and Anna. Iu 1852 Mr. Closser purchased the 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1 157 



farm i>f 120 acres now occupied by his son John, 
and two years afterward sold it, and purchased tin- 
place which is his present home. He is a Dem- 
ocrat, but votes for principle regardless of party 
divisions, when he thinks occasion demands it. 

John Closser, son of A. J. and Annie (Moninger) 
Closser, was born February N, I MM, on the ances 
tral acres in Amwell township, and when nine 
years of age moved to the farm which he still 
occupies. In 1802 he enlisted in Company D, 
One Hundred and Fortieth P. V. I. , and remained 
during the whole service. He was in all the 
engagements of his company, was not wounded, 
but had five holes made in his clothing from the 
enemy's bullets, and lie was once slightly injured 
by a ball. After his return from the war, he turned 
to the more peaceful life of an agriculturist. He 
was united in marriage with Miss Annita Mowl, of 
West Bethlehem township, Washington county, 
which union was blessed with four children: 
Maggie B., Willie C, Pearl and Flora. In political 
opinion Mr. Closser follows in the steps of his fore- 
fathers, and votes the Democratic ticket. He has 
been justice of the peace in Amwell township eight 
years, and during that time, becoming inter* si 
ed in law, has passed his leisure time in the diligent 
study of the principles of that profession, ami so 
well has he improved the time that he will be soon 
admitted to practice. He was for time years a 
student at Pleasant Valley Academy. Mr. Closser 
and his family are all earnest workers in the Dis- 
ciple Church of Lone Pine. 

Dem\s Closser was born in 184—, on the old 
farm of Stephen Day, and remained there about 
rive years, when his parents brought him to the old 
Closser place, situated on the north branch of Ten- 
Mile creek. He remained on this farm fifteen 
years, attending the common schools, working for 
his father by the month, and giving him his wages 
until he was twenty-one years of age, when he 
continued to work by the month for four years; 
then bought part of the old Biggie farm, on which 
he lived for about five years; then sold this, 
purchased and came to his present home. In 1874 
he was married to Mary Luellen, who has borne 
him three children: Graeie Estella Myrtie, May 
C. and George Lalier. Mr. Closser has a valuable 
farm of sixty-seven acres, equal to any land in the 
vicinity. Politically he is a Democrat, and takes a 
warm interest in all questions pertaining to good 
local or national government. 



ILSON WABD. This enterprising and 
native-born farmer of Washington coun- 
ty comes of Maryland ancestry, his 
father, William Ward, having moved 
from that State to Washington county at 
an early day. 




Wilson Ward was born February 22, 1 sj:;. U1 
Allen township, near Belle Vernon, and was in 
boyhood inducted into the various arduous duties 
of farm life, a few weeks in the winter si 
being devoted to attending the primitive schools 
of the neighborhood. On February 28, 1 S07, he 
married Miss Margaret M.. daughter of Rev. 
James Kenney, and granddaughter of Benjamin 
Kenney. After marriage Mr. Ward bought the 
farm in East Bethlehem township on which he mow 
resides, comprising 186 acres of valuable land. 
all in a high state of cultivation. Here he carries 
on general agriculture, including stock raising, 
etc., and lias met with well-merited success. To 
Mr. and Mrs. Ward have been born children as 
follows: William, January 2, 1868; Le Moyne, 
February 7. 1870; Theodore, August 2:!. 1874, 
and Walter E., January 23, 1880, all still living 
under the parental roof. William H. at onetime 
Conducted a store in the village of Fredericktown. 

this county, but. unfortunately, was burned out in 
April, 1891, and he has since been assisting his 
father on the farm. In his political preferences 
our subject is a Bepublican, but is not active, ae 
his time and attention are exclusively devoted to 
his farm duties. He anil the family are members 
of the M. E. Church, and are highly esteemed by 
a large circle of friends. 




It DDISON A. GRIFFITH. The Griffith 

1\ family, of which this gentleman is a worthy 
T representative, comes of Irish ancestry, 
* David Griffith, the grandfather, having em- 
igrated from that country to America in an 
early day. He and his family first located on a 
farm in Cecil township, Washington Co., Peun., 
then moved to a place near Claysville, Donegal 
township, and finally went to Monroe county, 
Ohio, where he died, leaving children as follows: 
Benjamin, Samuel, John, David. Ephraim, Eliza- 
beth, Anna, Charlotte, Rachel, Jonah and Levi. 
The father in his political preferences affiliated 
with the Whig party; in religion he was a member 
of the Presbyterian Church at Miller's Bun. 

Levi Griffith, son of David, was born May 1 1 1, 
1809, in Cecil township, Washington Co., Penn., 
where his early education was received. In 1830 
he married Margaret, daughter of James McClel- 
lan, of Mt. Pleasant township, this county. After 
their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Griffith resided in 
Chartiers township, this county, two years, then 
came to Canonsburg, where he died in 1883. He 
followed the business of a contractor and builder, 
in politics was a Whig and Bepublican, and in 
religion a member of the II. P. Church, which he' 
served as trustee. His widow is yet living, in her 
eighty-eighth year, the mother of the following 
children: Nancy J. (wife of Bev. W. J. Alexander), 



L458 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 






David, James, Ada A. (Mrs. Johu A. Boone), Allie 
(wife of Andrew W. Miller) and Addison A. 

Addison A. Griffith was born July 5, 1842, in 
Canonsburg, Penn., where he received a thorough 
training at the public schools. At the age of 
eighteen years he was appointed assistant in the 
quartermaster's office, army of the Cumberland, 
remaining there sixteen months, and was then 
transferred to the Department of the Shenandoah, 
where he was until the close of the war. He then 
returned home, and going to Oil City, Penn., en- 
gaged in trading in oil, hay, grain and general 
produce. A year later he opened a general store 
at Freeport, Armstrong Co., Penn., which included 
dry goods, notions, boots and shoes. He conducted 
this business eighteen mouths, then managed a 
hotel at Sioux City, Iowa, one year, and afterward, 
having purchased a stock of goods, opened a store 
about sixty miles north of Sioux City, and there 
remained two years. Ho then resided on a farm in 
Iowa several years, and, moving from there to Da- 
kota, sold agricultural implements there for two 
years; thence returned to the farm in Iowa, and 
finally located in Canonsburg, Washington Co., 
Penn. He served several years as division officer 
of the Morganza Reform School, and soon after- 
ward opened the extensive tobacco establishment in 
Canonsburg which he is now conducting. In lS"ill 
Addison A. Griffith and Mary, daughter of Rev. 
William Galbraith, were united in marriage. Rev. 
Galbraith was married to a Miss Backup, and their 
children were Johu, George, Mary (Mrs. Griffith), 
Ellen and Laura. 

Two children were born to the union of Addison 
A. and Mary Griffith, namely: William, conducting 
a large shoe business at Mansfield, Penn. ; and 
Maggie. For his second wife Mr. Griffith was 
united in marriage with Hannah, daughter of 
Godfrey Cook, one of the oldest families of Wash- 
ington county, and they have two daughters, Mary 
and Clara. Mr. Griffith is widely known as an 
enterprising business man, and is actively identi- 
fied with the interests of the Republican party. 
He is a member of the United Presbyterian Church. 



f| D. SCOTT. The Scott family were early 
pioneers of Washington county, and are of 
t\ Scotch descent. Joseph Scott, the oldest 
^^ representative, was born about 1761, in 
Scotland, coming to America during the lat- 
ter part of the eighteenth century. He first lo- 
cated in York county, Penn., where he was married 
to Martha Paden, who was born in 1703. Prior 
to 1 788. when Washington county was sparsely 
settled, he came from York county, and made a 
home in the eastern part of Hanover township, 
this county, near Raccoon creek, securing control 
of an immense tract of wild laud. A cabin was 
erected which furnished them protection, and 



although deprived of many of the luxuries of life, 
they were soon able to build a comfortable home. 
The story of the struggles, hardships and priva- 
tions of early pioneers has often been told, and the 
lives of this earnest and self-reliant couple were sim- 
ilar to those of their comrades who undertook the 
arduous task of making the wilderness " to blos- 
som as the rose." Industry finally was rewarded; 
they became wealthy and highly-respected citizens, 
and passed the remainder of their lives surrounded 
by children and friends. They died at a ripe old 
age, in full connection with the " Old School Pres- 
byterian" Church, in which they had been reared 
from infancy. Politically the grandfather was a 
Democrat. To this worthy couple were born two 
sons and three daughters, all of whom lived to an 
adult age. 

Joseph Scott, a son of the pioneer Joseph, was 
born in 1800, and passed his early life on the 
farm of his father, amid the privations of a fron- 
tier home, receiving a limited education in the 
subscription schools. In 1830 he was married to 
Isabelle, daughter of Samuel Nelson, and the fol- 
lowing children were born to their union: Louisa 
(Mrs. John Camden, of Mt. Pleasant township), 
born February 10. 1831; William (a farmer of 
Beaver county, born October 26, 1833; Margaret, 
born February 5, 1835 (died unmarried, January 
5, 1865); Mary Jane, bora August 20, 1837 (de"- 
ceased in infancy), Elizabeth (wife of S. J. Den- 
nis, a merchant of Wellsville, Ohio), born October 
20, 1839, and Joseph D. (our subject). Mr. and 
Mrs. Scott resided on the home farm during life, 
and he devoted his entire attention to agriculture. 
In politics he was a Democrat, and in religion he 
a ml his wife were members of the Robinson U. P. 
Church. He died September 28, 1873, and his 
widow survived him until September 10, 1886, 
They are buried in Florence cemetery. 

Joseph D. Scott was born November 13, 1843, 
on the same farm which is yet his home, and dur- 
ing his earlier years attended the common schools 
and worked on the place. On December 25, 1867, 
he was married to Mary E. Donaldson, who was 
born March 19, 184S, daughter of Richard and 
.Mary (Bigger) Donaldson, of Hanover township, 
this county. The children of J. D. and Mary E. 
Scott were William D., Edith M. (deceased), Ora 
B. and Sarah E. After his marriage Mr. Scott 
located for a short time on the Donalds. >n home- 
stead in Hanover township, where he followed 
farming for a time, then engaged in the mercantile 
business at Haviugtou, Penn., thence moving to 
Caunelton, Beaver Co., Penn. This line of busi 
ness proving unprofitable, he came in 1876 to his 
present farm, where he has since been engaged in 
agriculture. In politics Mr. Scott is a firm Demo- 
crat. Both he and his wife are members of the 
Cross Roads Presbyterian Church. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1459 



DEWALT DAGUE was bom in 1818, in 
West Bethlehem township, this county, on 
' the old Dague homestead. His youth was 
— . spent on the paternal farm, of which he as- 
sumed the entire charge upon attaining the age of 
manhood. Although he received but a limited 
education in the common schools, he afterward be- 
came a well informed man, and was possessed of 
exceptionally good judgment. He was very suc- 
cessful in business, with the faculty of accumulat- 
ing property, and at the time of his death owned 
nearly 300 acres of excellent farming land. He 
was married to Delilah Swagler, daughter of 
Jonathan Swagler, of West Bethlehem township, 
and they had live children: Mrs. George Keel, 
Jacob, Jonathan, Thomas and Elmer E. Dewalt 
Dague was a Republican, and held several posi- 
tions in the township, such as school director and 
supervisor, which offices he creditably filled for 
several years. He was a very useful man in the 
community, and was much depended upon by his 
neighbors in sickness and death, for he never re- 
fused to aid those in affliction and trouble. He 
was a member of the Lutheran Church. In 1884 
many sorrowing friends followed him to the grave. 

Thomas Dague, one of the rising young farmers 
of West Bethlehem township, was born April 3, 
1857, on the old homestead in West Bethlehem 
township. His younger days were spent at home 
and in attending the common schools, but being the 
eldest boy in the family his opportunities in that 
respect were comparatively limited. However, in 
after years he abundantly made up for his lack of 
schooling by considerable application to books. 
At the age of twenty-three he began life for him- 
self by working his father's farm on shares, and 
he has been hard working and very successful. On 
October 2, 1879, he was married to Ella Deems, 
daughter of Harrison and Catherine Deems, resi- 
dents of West Pike Run township. Mrs. Dague 
has four sisters: Mrs. John Frederick, Mrs. 
Amanda Hawkins, Mrs. Stanton Luce and Jennie 
Deems. Mr. and Mrs. Dague have one son, 
Charles, born August 20, 1880. Our subject is a 
Republican, and one of the supervisors of the 
township. He has always taken an active interest 
in the politics of his township, and he and his 
wife are both highly respected members of the 
Scenery Hill Methodist Church. 

Elmer Ellsworth Dague, a prominent and pro- 
gressive agriculturist of West Bethlehem town- 
ee n 

ship, was born upon the farm which he now owns, 
and he received a fair education at the school 
known as the "Nicholl's School," in West Bethle- 
hem township. After leaving school he followed 
the carpenter's trade, having a natural inclina- 
tion for that kind of work. He was united in 
marriage with Annie Morton, and to them have 



been born the following named children: Walter, 
Bertha, Collins and Mary Josephine, all of whom 
are living. Mr. Dague is a Republican of no lit- 
tle local prominence, and enjoys the respect and 
esteem of a wide circle of friends. 



J (AMES W. HODGENS. Among the leading 
representative and progressive young farmers 
| in Buffalo township, this gentleman occupies 
a prominent position. He was born May 
23, 1856, in Buffalo township, this county, 
on the farm whereon he has since resided. He is 
a son of Thomas and Margaret, (Wilson) Hodgens, 
the latter of whom was a daughter of William 
Wilson, late of Buffalo township. 

Thomas Hodgens was a native of the same town- 
ship, whither his parents had come in an early 
day, and here he was reared to the many and 
varied arduous duties of farm life. His winter 
months were, to a considerable extent, devoted to 
attending the neighboring subscription schools, 
and, improving what he may there have learned by 
study at home, acquired in course of time, by 
earnest application to his books, a good useful edu- 
cation. While yet a young man Mr. Hodgens was 
married to Margaret Wilson, and the young couple 
then took up their residence on the farm now oc- 
cupied by R. W. Crothers, from which after a few 
years they moved to the place which is at present 
the home of our subject and his brother. This 
farm was totally unimproved, and was brought to 
its present state of cultivation by the assiduous 
labor, industry and perseverance of Thomas 
Hodgens, the buildings thereon having been 
erected by him and his family. The children born 
to Thomas and Margaret (Wilson) Hodgens were 
William and Ella (both deceased), James W. , 
Isaac and Clara. In 1S62 the father passed from 
earth, and was followed to the grave by the mother 
in 1869. They were constant attendants and 
liberal supporters of the Presbyterian Church at 
Claysville, and enterprising citizens, earning a 
reputation of which the family are justly proud. 
Mr. Hodgens was a stanch and loyal Democrat, 
and, although rarely accepting political prefer- 
ment, was ever a zealous worker for the party's 
cause. 

James W. Hodgens was reared to agricultural 
pursuits on his father's farm, and received his edu- 
cation at the common schools of the district. On 
March 8, 1876, he was married to Mary L., daugh- 
ter of James and Caroline (Horr) McMaunis. 
prominent citizens, in their day, of Buffalo town- 
ship, and the children born to this union were 
Thomas, Clara and Glenn. Mr. and Mrs. Hodgens 
are members of the Presbyterian Church, and in 
his political preference he is an uncompromising 



1460 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Democrat. Mr. Hodgens is liberal of bis means 
toward, and tbe pronounced cbampion of, all 
measures tending to the welfare and advancement 
of the commuuitj at large. 



AMUEL GREENLEE FULTON, one of 

West Bethlehem township's leading young 

farmers, is a native of Greene county, Penn., 

born in Washington township, April 1, 1858, 

a son of Stephen and Mary (Greenlee) Fulton. 

Stephen Fulton, grandfather of subject, was 
born in West Bethlehem township, Washington 
Co., Penn. , near the Greene county line, where his 
father owned a farm, upon which lie had settled 
upon his arrival in this country, at an early day, 
from his native Ireland. Grandfather Fulton lived 
to the age of about sixty years. 

Stephen Fulton, father of Samuel G., was born 
August 16, 1818, in West Bethlehem township. 
In his boyhood he attended the old-time primitive 
school, and being of a studious nature, and gifted 
with much perseverance, succeeded in securing a 
fair education. In 1847 he was married to Mary 
Greenlee, and subsequently moved to Greene county, 
Penn., where he still resides, a venerable and feeble 
old man. Stephen and Mary Fulton were blessed 
with ei"-ht children as follows: Nancy, Margaret, 
Ruth and Henry (all of whom are now deceased), and 
Emily, Samuel G., Eliza and Albert, at present re- 
siding in Greene county, Penn. The mother was 
called from this world October '28, 1*N8, when in 
her sixty-seventh year. 

Samuel G. Fulton spent his boyhood in his na- 
tive township, receiving a common-school educa- 
tion. On October 11, 1S83, he married Catherine 
E., daughter of Abe Crumrine, and they have one 
child: Percy C, born January 12, 1888. In 1886 
Mr. Fulton purchased a mill on Pike run, which 
he conducted for three years; but rinding the 
business otherwise than conducive to his good 
health, he was compelled to return to farm work, 
and he ultimately located on the property where 
he now resides. Although a stanch Democrat, he 
is not a politician, but his numerous friends have 
shown their appreciation of his many sterling 
qualities by the tendering of nomination to offices 
of trust. Both he and his wife are members of 
Mt. Zion Baptist Church. 



li ITORROW, WILLIAM and DAVID. The 
\Jy| grandfather of these gentlemen, Thomas 
■ I Morrow, was a farmer in County Down, 
-* Ireland, anil during the middle of the 
eighteenth century emigrated with his 
large family to America, locating near Harrisburg, 
where they remained until the death of Mr. Mor- 
row, when the family settled in the eastern part of 
Washington county, Pennsylvania. 



Matthew Morrow, son of Thomas, located near 
Pigeon creek, and was there married to Elizabeth, 
daughter of Israel Wier. Soon after his marriage 
Mr. Morrow came to Canton township, and pur- 
chased the farm now occupied by Thomas Allison, 
where he spent the remainder of his life and reared 
the following family: Samuel, Thomas, John, 
James, William, David, Adam, Mary, Lavina, Cath- 
erine, Jane, Anna and Elizabeth. He was a hard- 
working, energetic man, and achieved success by 
earnest effort. He was a pronounced Whig in 
political views, and one of the earliest members of, 
and most earnest workers in, the Presbyterian 
Church at Buffalo. He served as a member of the 
poor commission of the county for many years, 
giving universal satisfaction. He passed away at 
the advanced age of eighty one years, and, with 
his faithful wife, who lived her three score years 
and five, now rests in the cemetery at Buffalo. 

William Morrow, like many of the pioneer chil- 
dren, secured his principal education in the school 
of toil, although he was allowed to attend the 
common school a few days in the winter, when 
nothing else would occupy his time. The old log 
schoolhouse, around which cluster so many pleas- 
ant reminiscences, was an extremely humble af- 
fair; and through the cracks of the puncheon floor 
the wind came in gusts, causing the little ones to 
crouch closer to the huge fireplace, which extended 
across one end of the room, and was supplied with 
logs cut by the older pupils. The text-books, 
in exquisite harmony with the other appointments 
of the room, were of the most primitive character, 
and the stalwart master, selected rather for his 
physical than mental powers, who was a him believer 
in the maxim of Solomon: " Spare the rod and 
spoil the child," unlike many other theorists, 
practiced the principles which he preached; no 
pupil in his school could in after years complain 
that they were spoiled for the lack of vigorous ap- 
plication of the rod. But revenge was sweet, and 
many times these tortured victims of the birch 
barred out the dignified master, and compelled him 
to wait their pleasure or " stand treat." Amid 
such surroundings the youth of William Morrow 
was passed, and, in spite of toil and privation 
those early years were happy ones. The clothing 
of the family was the product of their own industry 
and skill, the cloth being woven, dyed and trans- 
formed into the necessary articles by the women. 
Mr. Morrow was married to Eliza, daughter of 
Samuel McClay. and their union was blessed with 
the following children : Sarah J. (wife of Thomas 
Allison), Robert M., Mary A., Margaret (wife of 
Jackson Lone| and Matthew. Mr. Morrow is a 
Repiiblican in his political preferences, and in re- 
ligion he is a member of the Presbyterian Church. 

David Morrow was born on the home place, and 
passed his boyhood in assisting his father on the 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1461 



farm, and in attending the common schools a few 
months during the winter. On January 14, 1840, 
he was united in marriage with Grizella, daughter 
of Robert Johnson, and this union was blessed 
with two children: Margaret (Mrs. Robert Murray) 
and Mary G. (Mrs. Hamilton Davis). In 1890 
Mr. Morrow married, for his second wife, Isabella, 
daughter of James Work, of Hopewell township. 
Politically Mr. Morrow was always a worker in 
the Republican party, and for many years held the 
office of assessor in his township, giving universal 
satisfaction. He was a trustee of the Presbyterian 
Church, of which he was for many years a mem- 
ber. David Morrow passed away February 27, 
1892, having been preceded by his wife on Jan- 
uary 7, same year. 



QEORGE WASHINGTON MILLER is one 
of the eminently successful agriculturists of 
West Bethlehem township, and deserves 
, special mention in this work. His grand- 
father, Thomas Miller, was of Maryland 
birth, but early in his career removed, with Lis 
wife and family of four children, to West Bethle- 
hem township, Washington county. Here he 
spent the remainder of his days. At an advanced 
age he was called from earth, and the community 
mourned the death of an honest, upright and es- 
teemed citizen. 

His son, John Miller, was born in 1818, in West 
Bethlehem township, where he is still known as an 
honored and beloved parent, an esteemed and re- 
spected neighbor. He married Elizabeth Sargent, 
and to them were born seven children, named as fol- 
lows: Thomas, Joseph, Sarah, Emma, John, Anna 
and George Washington, of whom Sarah, John, 
Anna and George W. all reside in Washington 
county. 

George Washington Miller, son of John and 
Elizabeth (Sargent) Miller, was born April 23, 
1843, on the old homestead, where he grew to 
manhood, and is esteemed by all. The school- 
houses where he received his early education were 
primitive to au extreme; the seats being made of 
slabs hewn from logs, the boys used them as sleds 
during the noon intermission. On December 27, 
1871, he married Amelia Eggy, a daughter of 
George Eggy, whose father, David, was one of the 
very first settlers in West Bethlehem township, and 
was of German nationality. To them have been 
born children as follows: Harrison, Melville, Ger- 
trude, Stephen, Blanche and Risine, the latter of 
whom died in infancy, in 1887. The surviving 
children are all living at home. Mr. Miller is a 
stanch Republican, and his friends have shown 
their appreciation of his many sterling qualities 
by electing him to several offices of trust in his 
Democratic township. 



JOHN S. BEAZELL, a leading merchant 
of California, is a son of William Beazell, 
who was born Febuary 22, 1807, in Allegheny 
county, Penn., a son of Luke Beazell, whose 
mother was of Irish birth, his father a na- 
tive of Germany. Luke Beazell was born in 1773, 
in Westmoreland county, Penn., and was married 
to Elizabeth English, a native of same county. 
Ten children were born to this union, of whom one 
son and three daughters are yet living, namely: 
William, Catherine (Mrs. Ails), Mary (Mrs. Smith) 
and Eliza (unmarried). Luke Beazell, who always 
followed farming, died in 1857. 

William Beazell learned the shoemaker's trade, 
which he has followed in connection with farming. 
On May 6, 1S30, he married Susan West, a native of 
Fallowtield township, this county, and they have had 
seven sons and three daughters, namely : Leander 
N. (deceased, who served three years in the army), 
Elmira, R. West, Luke P., Margaret E., Mary L., 
William H. , John S., R. W. B. (deceased) and 
Samuel. Mr. Beazell owns ten acres of land lo- 
cated four and a half miles from Monongahela, 
He has filled almost every public office in Fallow- 
tield township. 

John S. Beazell was born March 6, 1850, in 
Fallowtield township, Washington Co. Penn., and 
there received his early education. About 1873 he 
moved to California, and there opened a butcher 
shop in company with his brother Luke P. They 
followed that business seventeen years, and then 
John S. purchased a stock of boots and shoes. He 
sold this out one year later, and bought a half inter- 
est in the general merchandise store in California, 
the firm being now known as Craven & Beazell. 
On July 25, 1879, John S. Beazell was united in 
marriage with Dora I. , daughter of Jonathan West, 
who was a grandson of Jonathan West. The latter 
was born in Ireland, and coming to America when 
a young man, located permanently on a farm in 
Washington county, Penn. He was an Old-line 
Democrat in politics, and in religion one of the 
founders of the "West" Episcopal Church. His 
children were as follows: Jonathan, Robert, 
Thomas, Edward, Mary (wife of Robert Gregg), 
Ann (Mrs. Morris) and Janie (Mrs. Howden). 

Thomas West, son of Jonathan, was born and 
reared in West Pike Run township, where his 
school days were passed. He was married to 
Margaret Hopkins who bore him three children, 
namely : Thomas, Catherine and Jonathan. The 
father followed agricultural pursuits, and lived but 
a few years after his marriage. 

Jonathan West was born in Feburary, 1827, in 
West Pike Run township, Washington Co., Penn., 
and received his education in the neighboring 
schools. In 1852 he was united in marriage with 
Melinda, daughter of Edward Gregg; the latter 
was born and reared in Washington county, and 



I [62 



WASHINGTON COUNTY 



was married to Mary Norton, their children being: 
Mary J. (wife of James Baker), Stephen, Melinda 
(wife of Jonathan West), Seth, Maria, John and 
Maple. Mr. Gregg was a prosperous farmer and 
stock raiser. He voted with the Whig and Re- 
publican parties; he was a member of the Taylor 
M. E. Church, in which he was elder, class-leader. 
and Sunday-school superintendent. He and his wife 
were buried in the Taylor Church cemetery. Mr. 
and Mrs. West resided on a farm in West Pike Run 
township until 186J, when they moved to Virginia. 
Here he enlisted in Company B, Eighty -second 

0. V. I. , which was sent to the army of the Poto- 
mac, and he participated in numerous engage- 
ments. On July 2, 1863, he was captured at the 
battle of Gettysburg, and was first confined in Belle 
Isle, then in Andersouville prison, where he died 
the following June. His children were as follows: 
Mary E. (deceased), Margaret E. (wife of D. H. 
Lewis), Mary J. (married to Emerson Reed), Dora 

1. (wife of John S. Beazell), Myrtilla (married to 
Frank Craven) and Kate. 

To the union of John S. and Dora I. (West) 
Beazell two children have been born, Pauline and 
Ivy. Mr. Beazell is a stanch supporter of the Re- 
publican party; he has served as burgess and as a 
member of the council, and is now associated with 
the school board. He is identified with the M. E. 
Church. 



JiOSEPH RICHARDS, a representative and 
honored agriculturist of West Bethlehem 
| township, is a son of Joseph Richards, whose 
father, James, and early ancestry lived and 
died in Pennsylvania, east of the mountains. 

Joseph Richards (father of subject) was born in 
Bridgeport, Penu., and early in life began business 
as a boatman on the Monongahela river. He mar- 
ried Mary, daughter of Joseph Horner, a native of 
Fayette county, Penn.. and to them was born one 
child, Joseph. The father lust his life while ply- 
ing his vocation as boatman on the river. He was 
stooping to get water, when he lost his balance, 
fell into the river, and before assistance arrived 
was drowned. 

Joseph Richards, son of Joseph and Mary 
(Horner) Richards, was burn in Bridgeport, Fayette 
Co., Penn., in June, 1829, and early in his boy- 
hood he began the vocation at which he is still em- 
ployed, that of farming. When about fifteen 
veins of age he came to Washington county, at 
which time he possessed nothing in the world save 
a stout heart and a strong will. He began life 
here, working at whatever presented itself, and by 
saving his earnings, was, in 1852, enabled to buy a 
share in a threshing machine. Continuing to toil 
and save, he finally invested in fifty-five acres of 
laud, adjoining the property he now owns, which 



latter comprises 340 acres of finely cultivated land, 
on which are a number of commodious buildings, 
all in good repair, and having an air of prosperity 
and thrift. In 1862 Mr. Richards married Maria, 
daughter of Peter Shidler, whose parents were of 
German descent, and among the early settlers of 
Washington county. To Mr. and Mrs. Richards 
have been born children as follows: Nora, Addi, 
Effa, Harry H. (attending Duff's Business College, 
Pittsburgh,*, Mary and Walter, all of whom are 
living at home. In political preferments Mr. 
Richards is a stanch Republican, and has been 
elected to the office of school director, which he 
has filled with credit to himself and the satisfaction 
of his constituents. He and his family are mem- 
bers of the Methodist Church. He is one of the 
typical self-made men of the county, his present 
prosperity being entirely due to thrift, proper am- 
bition and sterling honesty, and he well merits the 
esteem and respect of all who know him. 



J/OHN C. MORROW. This gentleman was 
born April 25, 1864, in Hancock county, 
) W. Va. , and during his early life attended 
the common schools of the district. At 
the age of eighteen years he entered the 
normal school at Fairmount, where he remained 
two years, and he afterward began teaching, in 
which vocation he continued three years. He then 
came to Burgettstown, and entered the boot and 
shoe business, the firm carrying an extensive line 
of boots and shoes, and also hats and caps. On 
September 3, 1891, Mr. Morrow was united in 
marriage with Julia, daughter of M. R. Welch. 
Our subject is an active worker in the ranks of the 
Democratic party, has served as auditor of Bur- 
gettstown, and is now filling the offices of secre- 
tary and treasurer of the borough. 



IjOHN SARGEANT, an industrious and es- 
v I teemed citizen of West Bethlehem township, 
(f Jj is a grandson of John Sargeant, who came 
to the township at an early period, locating 
upon a farm of 162 acres which adjoins the one 
now owned by his grandson, John. 

Grandfather Sargeant received but a meager 
education in the subscription schools, but, notwith- 
standing this disadvantage, he so improved every 
opportunity that he acquired a valuable store of 
general information. The children born to liim 
were as follows: James, Thomas, Joseph, John, 
William, Valentine, Mrs. Margaret Spoon, Nancy. 
and Mrs. Sarah Barker. He remained upon the 
farm until his death, which occurred in 1853. He 
was an active worker in the Republican party, and 
a successful business man. Mrs. Sargeant was a 
member of the Dunkard Church. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



] 403 



James Sargeant, son of John the pioneer, was 
born in 1803, in the neighborhood of his son's 
present home in West Bethlehem township. His 
boyhood was spent upon the farm with his father, 
and though receiving but a limited education at 
the common schools, it served him as the founda- 
tion of an exceptionally successful career, for he 
became one of the intelligent, substantial business 
men of his time and in his community. He hist 
began business for himself in 1825, when he bought 
a small farm near the river in West Bethlehem 
township. In 1830 he was married to Susan 
Crumrine, daughter of John Crumrine, of West 
Bethlehem township, and their children were: 
William, Thomas, Mrs. James Weaver, Hiram, 
John, James, Valentine, Sarah Lucinda, and Wil- 
son. The father remained upon the farm twenty 
years, and then moved to the place now occupied 
by the subject of this sketch ; he was an active Re- 
publican, but did not aspire to office. He and his 
wife were both active members of the Methodist 
Church. Mrs. Sargeant died in 188(5; Mr. Sar 
geaut, now aged ninety years, is still enjoying the 
fruits of an industrious life. 

John Sargeant, was born in 1842 in East Bethle- 
hem township, Washington Co., Penn., and lived 
at the paternal home until several years after his 
majority was attained. He received a common- 
school education which, coupled with industry and 
good judgment, enabled him to accumulate a com- 
fortable property. He was united in marriage in 
1875 with Elizabeth Hawkins, daughter of James 
C. Hawkins. He then bought and took possession 
of his father's farm of 155 acres, but the young 
wife only lived until July, 1877, when she died 
leaving him one child, Harrison, who is now at 
home. On October 24, 1878, Mr. Sargeant mar- 
ried Clementine, daughter of Jesse Register, of 
Greene county, Penn., and they have two children: 
Myrtle and Jessie. Politically, our subject is an 
active Republican 1 , and he and his family are ear- 
nest and valued members of the M. E. Church. 



El NOCH KEYS. There is no better known, 
more prominent or more highly respected 
family in East Bethlehem township than 
the one of whom we now write. 
Jacob Keys was born and reared in Germany, 
and there married, his children being Mary (Mrs. 
William Horner), Elizabeth (Mrs. Thomas), Enoch, 
Andrew, Adam and Sarah (all now deceased); 
Andrew and Adam were wheelwrights in Pitts- 
burgh, Penn. 

Enoch Keys was born in February, 1785, in 
Germany, and when four years of age crossed the 
Atlantic with his parents, who immediately on 
landing proceeded westward to Washington 
county, Penn., and, buying a tract of land in East 



Bethlehem township, made a settlement there. 
Here Enoch was reared to manhood amid pioneer 
scenes, his education being such as could be 
gleaned from the primitive schools of the vicinity. 
He married Rachel, daughter of James Perry, and 
children as follows were born to them: Luther, 
Parker, Enoch, Jr., Elizabeth, Dorcas, Hannah, 
Cynthia and Rachel, of whom are now living: 
Mrs. Elizabeth Teagarden, at Clarksville, Greene 
Co., Penn., and Dorcas. Hannah and Rachel, in 
East Bethlehem township. Otto Keys was adopted 
by Miss Hannah Keys, and was married to Julia 
Florence Horton, by whom there is one child — 
Estella Horton Keys, born December 19, 1891. 
The Misses Dorcas, Hannah and Rachel Keys are 
ladies uniformly respected for their many Chris- 
tian virtues; they are devout members of the Bap- 
tist Church. 

Enoch Keys, their father, was an undertaker, as 
was his father before him. He died March 11, 
1824, in politics a stanch Republican, and in re- 
ligion a consistent Baptist. The family farm con- 
sists of eighty acres of the choicest land to be 
found in the county, and is cultivated by Otto 
Keys, who is a rising and popular young agricult- 
urist of considerable intelligence. The name Keys 
is regarded, wherever known, as the synonym 
for virtue, probity and unswerving integrity, and 
is held in the highest esteem. 



I7I( BRAHAM CRUMRINE, a prominent farm- 

/ \\ er of West Bethlehem township, is a grand- 

p"H\ son of Abraham Crumrine, who was born 

J -^ of German parentage, in Baltimore county, 

i Md. , where he lived to a green old age. 

John Crumrine, father of subject, was born in 
1785, in Baltimore county, Md., and there grew to 
manhood. He attended the German schools until 
grown, and then began his English education in 
the subscription school, which was held in the 
parsonage. When the weather was such that he 
could not work, he attended school but with all 
these obstacles in his path, he obtained a good 
education for that period. He married Barbara, 
daughter of John Ferman, and for a time lived in 
Baltimore county, Md., where Mary, Betsey (de- 
ceased), Susan, and Margaret (deceased), were 
born to them. In 1812 he removed to Washing- 
ton county, Penn., aud settled on Daniels run, in 
West Bethlehem township, part of which farm now 
belongs to Mrs. Julia Theakston, a sister of our 
subject. Here were born to him the following 
children: Sarah, Barbara (deceased), Julia Ann, 
Lucinda, Judia (deceased), Maria, George (de- 
ceased), John (deceased), William, David (de- 
ceased) and Abraham. All grew to an adult age, 
and the survivors all live in Washington county, 
with the exception of Maria, who married Demas 



1464 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



Drake, and resides iu Iowa. The father of this • 
family was one of the rare, self-made men. Be- 
ginning life with practically nothing, he not only 
cared for and educated his large family, but accu- 
mulated no little of this world's goods. At the 
timi' of his death, which occurred iu 1857, he was 
the owner of about three hundred and forty acres 
of land, all in a good state of cultivation. 

Abraham Crumriue was born April 6, 1S26, 
upon the old farm iu West Bethlehem township, 
this county, a part of which he still owns. His 
education was gleaned from the meager teachings 
of the country schools. His boyhood, when he 
was not at school, was passed upon the farm, 
where he learned valuable lessons of thrift, to 
which much of his success in life is doubtless due. 
In 1857 he married Mahalia, daughter of George 
Zollar, for whom the hamlet of Zollarsville is 
named, he being one of the earliest settlers of that 
part of the county. After his marriage he built 
the elegant dwelling in which he now resides, and 
has made many other improvements. His chil- 
dren are Catherine, wife of Samuel Fulton, of 
West Bethlehem township; Sanford, a young man 
of superior intelligence, and a competent in- 
structor in one of the schools of West Bethlehem 
township; and Fermau, his father's chief assistant 
on the farm. Mr. Crumrine is a leading Democrat, 
and one of the trusted counselors of his party; also 
a member of the Lutheran Church, with which he 
is prominently identified. 



T' C. NOBLE. The paternal ancestors of 
Thaddeus C. Noble were natives of Scot- 
land, and resided at North Woodside, near 
the city of Glasgow, where they were com- 
fortably situated. They were devout mem- 
bers of the Covenanter Church. The paternal 
grandfather, William Noble, was a soldier in the 
war of the Revolution, and took part in the battle 
of Brandywine. His wife was Miss Elizabeth 
Howe, a native of Lancaster county, where he lo- 
cated and lived on a farm. He died compara- 
tively young in life, leaving two sons, the young- 
est of whom, James Noble, was bhe father of the 
subject of this sketch. After the death of the 
husband, the widow and her sons resided for a short 
time at York, Penn., and then removed to a farm in 
Buffalo township. Washington county, where she 
continued to reside the most of her life. She 
died in Canonsburg, Penn., iu the year 1851, in 
the membership of the Associate Reformed Pres- 
byterian Church. 

The maternal ancestors of our subject were na- 
tives of Ireland, and lived for the most part in 
County Tyrone. Most of the family resided iu 
the town of Dennaughey, about thirty miles dis- 
tant from Belfast; and in the latter place others of 



the family resided, and were generally engaged in 
mercantile pursuits. Robert Boyd, the maternal 
grandfather, was a man of business enterprise and 
influence. His wife was Margaret Latimer. The 
Boyds were members of an old established Pres- 
byterian Church, of Stewartstown, with which the 
family had been for many years identified, and in 
which one of their kindred had been pastor, and 
others elders. Meeting with reverses in their na- 
tive country, they decided to join the tide of emi- 
gration then coming westward, and accordingly 
embarked from Londonderry in June of 1801, in a 
sailing vessel, Capt. Blunt, commander; and after 
a voyage of seven weeks and three days they ar- 
rived at New Castle, Del., where they remained for 
a short time, and then permanently took up their 
residence in what is uow Canton township, Wash- 
ington county. 

Jane Boyd, daughter of Robert and Margaret 
Latimer Boyd, was the mother of the subject of 
this sketch. She was born in Dennaughey, Coun- 
ty Tyrone, Ireland, in the year 1793. Mrs. Dr. 
McCook, of Pittsburgh, and Mrs. Dauiel McCook. 
of Steubenville, Ohio, whose family gained dis- 
tinction in the Mexican and late Civil wars, were 
her full cousins. She was married to James 
Noble, March 25, 1817, and resided for two years 
thereafter on a farm in Amwell township, attend- 
ing the Presbyterian Church at Lower Ten-Mile 
under the pastorate of the Rev. Dr. Dodd; and 
afterward, about the year 1820, they removed to 
Claysville, where they continued to reside the re 
maiuder of their lives. James Noble, her hus- 
band, was born August 4, 1795, in that part of 
county, Penn., which now comprises 
Cumberland county, and died April 
Mrs. Noble died October 16, 1S72. 
Upon their removal to Claysville they united with 
the Methodist Episcopal Church, it being the only 
organized church there at that time, of which they 
continued members for upward of fifty years. 

T. C. Noble, the subject proper of this memoir, 
was well and favorably known throughout the 
county, and his name suggests a prominent 
example of an active and useful life, covering a 
period of more than forty years. He was born iu 
Amwell township, December 29, ISIS, and was the 
eldest of eleven children, the most of whom are now 
deceased. He was, physically, very strong and 
active, and of a placid and amiable disposition. 
He was the possessor of splendid mental qualities, 
and early manifested a taste for learning, taking 
particular delight in mathematics, drawing and in 
reading biography, and his hand-writing was 
excellent. It had been both the desire and design 
of the father to afford his son the advantages of a 
liberal education, but upon the arrival of the 
proper time for entering upon such a course, the 
father's circumstances were such as to render the 



Lancaster 
a part of 
12, 1872. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1465 



undertaking impracticable. He worked for eight- 
een months at cabinet making, and then com- 
menced teaching school. He taught the Brown 
and McMillan District Schools near his home for 
several terms, and then taught a private school in 
Claysville, and in the year 1839 he went to Win- 
chester, Scott Co., 111., where he taught with suc- 
cess for a period of two years, when he returned 
to his home and accepted a clerkship in the store 
of George A. Cracraft, and subsequently filled a 
similar position in a store owned by his father and 
James Paden. While thus engaged he employed 
his leisure in studying higher mathematics and 
surveying under the direction of E. G. Cracraft, 
who had been a cadet at West Point. In the year 
1846 he was appointed Deputy Surveyor in Wash- 
ington county by Governor Francis R. Shuuk, for 
a term of three years, and at the expiration of the 
term, was re-appointed for a like term of three 
years. The office then becoming elective, he was 
nominated by his party and elected for another 
term. In 1857, under appointment authorized by 
an Act of the Legislature, Mr. Noble transcribed 
from the official records at Harrisbnrg, for the use 
of the county, all the drafts of original surveys 
not found in the record books. The surveys 
thus transcribed numbered twelve hundred, filling 
two large volumes. A Harrisburg paper spoke 
of this work thus: "This work has been done 
with an accuracy of detail and skillful beauty that 
does great credit to Mr. Noble, and they are said 
by the Suveyor-General to be the best executed 
drafts of survey ever made in the State, and will 
ever be preserved as an attestation of his compe- 
tency as a public servant." He surveyed during 
his life upward of two thousand farms in Wash- 
ington county and West Virginia, besides running 
many disputed lines and serving under appoint- 
ment of the Court as a road or bridge viewer, 
aud in dividing townships for nearly every 
term of court for thirty-three years. He 
possessed peculiar ability as an arbiter in 
the settlement of all manner of disputes, thus 
avoiding to those concerned much useless and 
expensive litigation. In the year 1855 he was de- 
feated for the office of Prothonotary by a very few 
votes, while the opposing party was largely in the 
majority. On this occasion Mr. Noble received 
almost the unanimous vote of his home township, 
Donegal. In the year 1879 he accepted the 
chairmanship of the Democratic County Vigilance 
Committee, and notwithstanding his party was 
greatly in the minority, he effected such a complete 
organization in the county as to elect the candi- 
date for Sheriff, the only office of importance to 
be filled that year. He was twice commissioned a 
Justice of the Peace — in the years 1874 and 1879. 
His standing in his party was such that he was at 
five different times nominated for offices by his 



party without any solicitation on his part, and had 
been urged at other times to become a candidate 
for the Legislature, but always declined. He always 
attended primary elections, and was an intense 
believer in the personal fitness of candidates; that 
they should be both capable and conscientious. 

Mr. Noble opened a general store in Claysville 
in the year 1849, in which business he continued 
without interruption for a period of twenty -five 
years, commanding a large patronage, and in 
which he was quite successful. He had had at 
different times as partners, L. C. Truesdell, a 
brother-in-law, Chester B. Abercrombie, and M. 
L. Stillwagen. For thirty-five years he had been en- 
gaged extensively in many kinds of business in the 
purchase and sale of lands for himself and others, 
in buying of wool to the extent of from thirty thou- 
sand to one hundred and fifty thousand dollars each 
year; having been the agent for the Harris Woolen 
Company, Woonsocket, Rhode Island, at different 
times, for upward of thirty years, and having bought 
for them continuously for twelve years previous to 
his death, enjoying the confidence and esteem of 
the company to an unusual degree. He had 
also bought at different times for many firms 
at Boston, New York, Brooklyn and other places. 
He had done much to foster the growth of the 
wool-growing industry in Washington county. 
His high standing and extensive acquaintance en- 
abled him to perform an important work in the 
matter of inducing a goodly number of manufact- 
urers to come into the county from time to time as 
purchasers of our wools, thus giving an impetus to 
the industry which did much in the way of creating 
a spirit of competition, having a tendency to main- 
tain both reputation and prices. He was the first 
to introduce to any considerable extent the first 
improved light-running harvesting machines in his 
own as well as some of the neighboring counties. 
He dealt extensively in hay and grain for the 
use of the Government during the late war. 
Besides his private business he had often rilled 
many positions of trust, such as executor, admin- 
istrator, guardian, etc. And although so long en- 
gaged in many kinds of business involving multi- 
plied and varied transaction, he had never been a 
party to a suit in court. 

He was for sixteen years a school director, and 
was an ardent advocate of advanced education. In 
the year 1854, Mr. Xoble realized the fulfillment 
of an early conceived purpose to become the owner 
of a tract of land lying immediately west of Clays- 
ville, which he so well improved as to make it one 
of the many desirable Washington county farms, 
upon which he resided for twenty years previous 
to his death. The improvement and beautification 
of the New Cemetery at Claysville was a matter to 
him of much concern, he having surveyed and 
superintended the work of laying it out, and was 



1460 



WASH ING TON COUN T Y. 



president of the Board of Directors from its open- 
ing up to the time of bis death. He was for a 
good many years a member of tbe Methodist Epis- 
copal Church, but afterward united with the Pres- 
byterian Church during the pastorate of the Rev. 
Alexander McCarrell, D. D. He was, for ten years, 
superintendent of the M. E. Sabbath-school, and, 
for six years previous to his death, superintendent 
of the Presbyterian Sabbath-school. Ho took a 
deep interest in all Sabbath- school work, and pos- 
sessed singular ability in the way of creating an 
interest in the matter of regular and prompt at- 
tendance, as well as in infusing a spirit of emula- 
tion into the routine exercises. He was foremost 
in every movement and enterprise which had for 
its object the advancement of the interests of his 
town and county; was active and efficient in every 
agency which had for its object the advancement 
of religion, morals and education. His deep sense 
of integrity and regard for truth was the basis of 
that confidence so universally reposed in him. He 
was public spirited, ever considerate for the wel- 
fare of others and liberal in his giving. He en- 
joyed the pleasures of his home and comforts of his 
family. In the hallowed circle of his home he was 
the central object of uncommon reverence and 
affection. 

In the year 1849 he was married to Miss Sarah 
M. Truesdell, whose parents had come to Wash- 
ington county from Bristol, Conn. They had ten 
children, three of whom are deceased: Thomas J., 
Charlotte J., and Elizabeth M. Of those surviv- 
ing, his daughters — Frances M., Harriet W. and 
Eleanor I. — are graduates of Steubenville (Ohio) 
Ladies Seminary. Of his sons, J. T. and T. C. 
are graduates of Washington and Jefferson Col- 
lege. J. H. obtained his education in the schools 
of Claysville, Trinity Hall, Washington, Penn., 
and Duff's College, Pittsburgh. Katherine M., on 
account of physical infirmities, has been unable to 
attend school. Mr. Noble died at his home near 
Claysville. November 29, 188*2, the Rev. James L. 
Leeper, then pastor of the Presbyterian Church at 
that place, Rev. William H. Lester, D. D., of West 
Alexander, Penn., and the Rev. Henry Woods, D.D., 
of Washington and Jefferson College officiated at 
his funeral. 

T. Clark Noble, son of T. C. and Sarah M. 
(Truesdell) Noble, was born on a farm near Clays- 
ville, Penn, His elementary education was ob- 
tained chiefly in the schools of his native town, but 
partly under tbe direction of his father, with whom 
he studied surveying. In 1879 he and his brother, 
James H. Noble, entered Trinity Hall, a school for 
boys established by Mr. W. W. Smith at Washing- 
ton. Penn., which was at the time under the rectoi 
ship of the Rev, Samuel Earp, Ph. D., where he 
prepared himself for college. In 1881 he entered 
the freshman class of Washington and Jefferson 



College, where he graduated with the highest 
honors in the class of 1885. The year following 
his graduation he was an instructor at Trinity 
Hall, which was at the time under the rectorship 
of the Rev. Thomas Pitts, Ph. D. In 1887 he was 
elected adjunct professor of mathematics in Wash- 
ington and Jefferson College, in which position he 
continued for two years, at the expiration of which 
time he commenced the study of law under the 
direction of James I. Brownson, Jr., and was ad- 
mitted to the Washington county bar in the 
October term, 1891 ; and in the December following 
was admitted to practice in the several Courts of 
Allegheny county, at Pittsburgh, Penn., where he 
opened an office at No. 413 Grant street. Mr. 
Noble makes most careful preparation in all mat- 
ters relating to his profession, and all his work is 
characterized by thoroughness and accuracy. 

While pursuing his law studies he occasionally 
did land surveying as well as some road and bridge 
engineering under appointment of court. He is a 
gentleman whose scholarship is of a high standard. 
Mr. Noble enjoys the confidence and esteem of all 
who know him. He makes his home in Allegheny 
City, where he attends the Central Presbyterian 
Church. 




H. WINFIELD. This gentleman repre- 
sents an English family who have ac- 
quired an enviable reputation as skilled 
musicians, of which art be is also a de- 
votee. William Winfield (the grandfather) was a 
native of England, being born at Woodville, in Lei- 
cestershire. He was a potter by trade, and spent 
the earlier part of his life in Stafford, a city largely 
engaged in the manufacture of white ware. He 
was married May '29, 1830, to Mary Harvey, at 
Ashby De La Zouch, and emigrated to America in 
1842. They had children as follows: Thomas, 
Rosanna, William, Levi, Jonah, Albert, Harvey 
and Sarah. After the birth of their fifth child, 
Jonah, Mr. and Mrs. Winfield sailed with their 
family to America, where their three youngest 
children were born. They first landed in New 
York, thence proceeded to Zanesville, Ohio, thence 
to East Liverpool, afterward moving to Pitts- 
burgh, Penn., where they remained several years, 
and finally settled in the village of Granville, 
Washington Co., Penn. 'Sir. Winfield was an ex- 
pert performer on various musical instruments, 
excelled also in vocal music, and he organized an 
instrumental band at California, Penn., known as 
" Winfield's California Brass Band." In religious 
connection he was a member of the Cumberland 
Presbyterian Church, and in political opinion he 
was a Democrat. He died June 4, 1866. 

Thomas Winfield, son of William and Mary 
(Harvey) Winfield, was bom in England and emi- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1467 



grated with his parents to America. He learned 
and followed the pottery trade with his father at 
Granville, where his father built a pottery as soon 
as he settled there. He was first married to 
Martha Imlay, who died leaving two children, 
W. H., and John (deceased). For his second wife 
Thomas Winfield was married to Margaret Pester, 
who has borne him six children, two only of which 
(Mary and Annie) are living. In 1802 the family 
moved to Canada, where he is now engaged in the 
grocery business. While a resident of this coun- 
try he affiliated with the Democratic party in pol 
itics; in religion he was a Cumberland Presbyte- 
rian while in the United States, but united with the 
Methodist Church since moving to Canada. 

W. H. Winfield, son of Thomas and Martha 
(Imlay) Winfield, was born December 12, 1854, in 
Granville, Washington Co., Penn., and received 
his early education in the common schools and at 
the Southwestern State Normal School at Cal- 
ifornia, Penn. He then attended Eastman Na- 
tion Business College, Poughkeepsie, N. Y. , 
graduating in 1883, paying his own expenses by 
teaching music. In 1884 he opened his present 
drug store in California, in which he has met with 
well-merited success. Since 1884 Mr. Winfield 
has managed the finances of the Cumberland Pres- 
byterian Church at Coal Centre, Penn. , with which 
he is identified, and was one of the building com- 
mittee that attended to the erection of their pres- 
ent house of worship; he has also been trustee 
and treasurer of the church, and has been director 
of the choir for fifteen years. In political opin- 
ion he is a Democrat, was elected to the position 
of township clerk, and is now serving as a 
member of the school board and secretary of 
the same. On August 19, 1889, Mr. Winfield 
was married to Donnetta Newkirk, daughter of 
Henry and Olive J. (Richardson) Newkirk, of 
Bentleyville, Washington Co., Penn. Miss New- 
kirk graduated at the Southwestern State Normal 
School at California, Perm., in 1877. Besides be- 
ing a teacher of marked ability, Mrs. Winfield is 
also a musician, and is a lady of many other ac- 
complishments, and of excellent family. Since his 
marriage Mr. Winfield has resided at corner of 
Third and Union streets, California, Penn., where 
his drug store is also located. 



OLOMON WEAVER comes of German an- 
cestry, the earliest of whom to immigrate 
to this country was Adam Weaver, who, 
with his son John, located in Washington 
county, Penn. Here the latter purchased 400 
acres of land one mile north of Fredericktown on 
Fish Pot run, in East Bethlehem township. 

John Weaver received a somewhat limited edu- 
cation, but by close observation of men and things, 



and attentive reading, gained a large amount of 
general information, becoming a very intelligent 
citizen. In 1788 he was married to Catherine, 
daughter of Martin Spoone, and the following 
children were born to them: Adam (deceased in 
L860); Sarah, who married C. Michener, of Seneca 
county, Ohio, and is now ninety years of age; 
Jacob; Martin, a farmer of Seneca county. Ohio; 
Daniel; Mrs. Elizabeth Ault, who resided at Orville, 
Wayne Co., Ohio; Mrs. Catherine Huffman; .Mis. 
Mary Smith; John; Joseph, deceased in 1890, and 
Margaret. Of this family are yet living Sarah, 
Mail in and Margaret. The parents died on the 
home farm in East Bethlehem township. 

Adam Weaver, son of John and Catherine 
Weaver, was bom in 1807 on the home place in 
Ea^t Bethlehem township, Washington county, 
where he passed an uneventful boyhood. He was 
married to Elizabeth Swartz, a member of a Ger- 
man family, and the young couple began life in a 
pioneer log cabin, surrounded by heavy forests, 
and there endured the usual privations of frontier 
life. As years passed by their industry was re- 
warded, the wild rough cabin home gave place to a 
more commodious dwelling, and golden grain 
waved in the breeze where the stately monarchs of 
the forest had but lately reared their lofty heads. 
Children came to bless their home as follows: 
John, Daniel, Elizabeth, Jacob, Solomon, Sarah 
and Adam. The father was called to his eternal 
rest January 17, 1N67, having been preceded by 
Mrs. Weaver January 26, 1838. They were mem- 
bers of the Methodist Church. 

Solomon Weaver, son of Adam and Elizabeth 
Weaver, was born January 3, 1823, on the old 
homestead where he is yet living in East Bethle- 
hem township. He was reared to agricultural 
pursuits, but was an extremely delicate youth, 
weighing at the age of twenty years but eighty 
pounds, being now, however, a large man. His 
education was secured after he had attained a ma- 
ture age, and he has well improved each opportu- 
nity. Mr. Weaver has always been an agriculturist, 
and, having never married, his maiden sister 
Sarah, who was born December 29, 1825, keeps 
house for him. 



LEWIS GREENLEE, a farmer and harness 
maker of West Pike Run township, was 
born July 27, 1814, in West Bethlehem 
township, Washington Co., Penn. He is a 
son of Samuel Greenlee, who was born in 1777, in 
Delaware, and when but a small boy came with his 
parents to a farm in Fayette county, Penn. Samuel 
Greenlee passed his youth in Fayette county, and 
there learned the shoemaker's trade, which he fol- 
lowed in connection with farming. When a young 
man he was married to Nancv Gance, who was born 



1468 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



in 1779, in Fayette county, Penn. Mr. and Mrs. 
Greenlee were the parents of thirteen children, 
namely: John (a farmer of Greene county, Penn.), 
James (also an agriculturist of Greene county), 
Benjamin (living on the old homestead in West 
Bethlehem township, Washington county), Daniel 
(a farmer of West Bethlehem township), Anna 
(widow of Lemuel Cooper, of Licking county, 
Ohio), Lewis (subject), Elizabeth, Susan, Mary, 
Margaret, Jacob, George and Albert. Of this fam- 
ily the seven last nmmed are deceased. About 
1S12 Mr. Greenlee came with his family from Fay- 
ette county, and located permanently on the place 
in West Bethlehem township, Washington county. 
He began life as a poor boy, but by constant in- 
dustry succeeded in accumulating a good property. 
He was an eager reader of current literature. He 
took an active part in public matters, and in poli- 
tics voted with the Democratic party. He and his 
wife were members of the Disciple Church. 

Lewis Greenlee remained on the home place un- 
til about sixteen years of age, then served an ap- 
prenticeship of five years with Peter Flick, of 
Bentleyville, Washington Co., Penn., at the har- 
ness and saddle-maker's trade, and after learning 
his trade traveled from place to place for about 
five years. In 1843 he was married to Aun Eliza 
Kerr, who was born in 1820, in Taylorstown, 
Washington Co., Penn., a daughter of James 
Kerr, a member of a pioneer family of this county. 
James Kerr learned and followed the blacksmith's 
trade at Taylorstown, Penn., for many years, 
finally moving to Greene county, where he and his 
wife died. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Kerr 
were born as follows: Mary, widow of Alfred 
Gregg, living in Greene county, Penn.; Ann Eliza, 
wife of Lewis Greenlee; Archibald, a farmer of 
Greene county; Margaret, Rachel, Sarah, Emily 
and Isabelle, of whom the three first mentioned 
are yet living. 

To the union of Lewis and Ann Eliza (Kerr) 
Greenlee three children have been born, namely: 
Virtue, widow of John Jenkins, of West Pike Run 
township; Mary W., widow of Morris Taylor, liv- 
ing in Ohio, and James, a miller of West Pike 
Run township. After his marriage Mr. Greenlee 
settled in Carmichael's, Greene county, and suc- 
cessfully followed the harness and saddlery busi- 
ness for about fourteen years. He then moved to 
Centreville, Washington county, continuing in 
business there until 1869, when he bought the 
forty-acre farm whereon he now resides, and has 
since devoted some time to agricultural pursuits. 
He votes the Republican ticket, has served five 
years as justice of the peace in West Pike Run 
township, and has also tilled the position of auditor. 
He and his wife are members of the M. E. Church 
at Beallsville, Penn., in which he has been class- 
leader for thirty years. 



EPHAS GARRETT, one of the most 
prominent citizens of West Bethlehem 
township, than whom none deserves more 
prominence, as an agriculturist, in the 
pages of this volume, is a native of the township, 
born July 14, 1842, near the farm whereon he 
now resides. He is a son of Samuel and Deliah 
(Grable) Garrett, and a great-grandson of Peter 
Garrett, whose son Nicholas was born in Maryland 
in 1779. Here the latter was married to Mary 
Ann Baumgardner, and thence, about the begin- 
ning of the present century, they removed to 
Washington county, Pennsylvania. 

Cephas Garrett passed his boyhood days in at- 
tending school and assisting his parents upon the 
farm. He was employed for about eighteen 
months at carpentering; but, his elder brothers 
leaving the farm, he was obliged to return to agri- 
culture, and never completed learning the trade. 
During the early part of the Civil war Mr. Garrett 
enlisted in the service of the United States, but 
was not allowed to serve, as he had not yet attained 
his majority. On May 24, 1866, he married Lyda 
Horn, daughter of John Horn (deceased), of West 
Bethlehem township, and to them have come the 
following named children: Alice, born March 25, 
1871, and Samuel, born May 1, 1879, both residing 
with their parents. When Mr. Garrett and his 
industrious wife began life they possessed nothing 
worthy of mention, but their united efforts were 
crowned with success, which is now apparent in 
their well-kept farm, consisting of sixty acres of 
highly -cultivated laud, upon which, in 1883, he 
erected a neat and handsome dwelling, besides 
making many other improvements. Mr. Garrett 
is modest and retiring, not at all disposed to 
thrust himself forward, and possesses the respect, 
esteem and admiration of all who know him. His 
honesty and integrity have won a high place for 
him in the community. In politics he is a Demo- 
crat, and, though not an office- seeker, is one of the 
counselors of his party. Both he and Mrs. Gar- 
rett are members of the Lutheran Church. 



dlESSE NICHOLLS, one of the self-made 
and prosperous agriculturists of West Beth- 
) hem township, is a grandson of Rosnios 
Nicholls, who came from England at an early 
date. He settled in Hillsborough, this count}', 
where he had a tavern for a number of years lie- 
fore the National pike was built. He afterward 
bought the "Nicholls' place," a small farm south 
of Hillsborough, and after remaining there a time 
again took charge of a tavern in Hillsborough, in 
a building that is still used as a hotel. In a short 
time, however, he again returned to the farm, 
where he remained the rest of his life. He was 
married to Mary Hall, of West Bethlehem town- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1 169 



ship, and their union was blessed with the follow- 
ing children: James, Stephen, William, Rose, 
Achison, Mrs. Sarah Kehor, Mrs. Margaret Sar- 
geant and Mrs. Betsey Trago, of whom Achison 
is the only one now living. Mr. Nicholls was a 
Democrat, and both he and his wife were members 
of the Baptist Church. Mrs. Nicholls died in 
1840, and Mr. Nicholls in 1850. 

Stephen Nicholls was born on the old home- 
stead in 1795, and obtained his early education in 
the common schools. He remained upon the 
home farm until he was forty years of age, driv- 
ing teams across the mountains and attending to 
the usual duties of the farm. In 1835 he mar- 
ried Margaret, daughter of Jacob and Mary Wise, 
of West Bethlehem township, and they had nine 
children: Jesse, Mrs. Mary Gregg, Mrs. Nancy 
Wilkins (deceased), Sarah Jane (deceased), Will- 
iam (deceased), Joshua (deceased), Maggie (de- 
ceased), Mrs. Catherine Biuns and Hiram. Mr. 
Nicholls was a true Democrat, although not an 
active politician. He died in 1881. in his eighty 
fourth year; his widow, aged seventy-six years, is 
still living. 

Jesse Nicholls was born December 8, 1836, upon 
the home farm. He received a partial education 
at the common schools, and at the age of fifteen 
years he began life for himself, working by the 
month. He was married February 4, 1858, to 
Margaret Taylor, and they had children as follows: 
Mrs. Sarah McCarthy (deceased), Lucy, Mrs. Emma 
Kinder (deceased), Laura, Samuel, .Joseph, Ray, 
John and Maggie. Although his early opportuni- 
ties were few, Mr. Nicholls is an intelligent, well- 
read man, and beginning life with no capital save 
strong hands, a quick brain and a healthy body, 
he has, by dint of honest principles, hard work 
and economy, succeeded, with the aid and encour- 
agement of his wife, in securing a fine farm of 
140 acres and a competence for his family. He 
is a Democrat, and has served several terms as 
supervisor of his township, but has been too busily 
engaged in his private business to give much at- 
tention to political questions. Mrs. Nicholls was 
a member of the M. E. Church. She passed 
away May 28, 1891, deeply mourned by her many 
friends and relatives. 



FXANTS, CHRISTIAN and GEORGE, are 
' representatives of one of the oldest and 
most prominent families of East Finley 
township. Theearliest pioneer of that name, 
of whom any authentic account can be se- 
cured, was Christian Plants, from whom the pres- 
ent generation of the family trace their ancestry. 
Christian Plants, who was of German descent, 
grew to manhood in eastern Pennsylvania, where 
he married Catherine Haines, and in 1796 they 



moved to Washington county, Penn., locating at 
the foot of " Gallows Hill," near Washington. In 
1806 he settled in Finley (now East Finley) town- 
ship, on what is now called " Enlowfork of Wheel- 
ing creek," and on the farm afterward owned by 
his son Leonard. The children born to Christian 
and Catherine (Haines) Plants were Leonard, Solo- 
mon, George, Christian, Catherine, Maxwell, Eliza- 
beth, Hannah, Jacob, Mary, Daniel. John and an 
unnamed infant. Of these children the only one 
now living is Maxwell (a retired farmer residing 
near Cameron, W. Va.). Mr. Plants farmed dur- 
ing the summer, and taught school in the winter 
months. He lived to a good old age. 

Leonard Plants was born March 22, 1797, on 
his father's farm near Washington, this county. 
In 1806 he came with his parents to East Finley 
township, and passed his boyhood on the farm, en- 
during all the privations and hardships which are 
inseparable from the lives of pioneers. In 
1815 he was indentured with Jesse St. Clair to 
learn the stone mason's trade, and after serving 
an apprenticeship of three years began to work for 
wages on the National pike, then building, and 
continued to follow his trade till 1880. On May 6, 
1819, he was united in marriage with Elizabeth 
Barney, who died in 1820, leaving four children: 
Elizabeth, now residing in Wetzel county, W. Va. , 
wife of Stephen Hill; Christian; George, and one 
that died in infancy. 

Mr. Plants afterward married Fannie Barney (a 
sister of his first wife), and she died in January, 
1874, leaving the following children: Jesse and 
Leonard, farmers in Eas-t Finley township, this 
county; Mary Jane (widow of Andrew Stoller), also 
a resident of East Finley township; Hannah (wife 
of Daniel Plants), residing in Morris township. 
Washington county; John B. (a farmer and 
mason), residing in East Finley township; Marga- 
ret (wife of Nathan Stoller), also in East Finley 
township; Martha (Mrs. John Nickerson), in east 
Finley township; Daniel, in Kansas, and Cather- 
ine, Fanny, Nancy, Adolphus H. and Christina 
(all five deceased). On July 23, 1874, Mr. Plants 
was married to Nancy L. Miller, and to this union 
one daughter, Catherine L., was born. Mr. Plants 
began life one of the " poorest boys imaginable," 
but his physical and mental strength, combined 
with energy and business tact, surmounted all 
obstacles to success, and gave him a considerable 
property, much of it being in lands, which he 
superintended and improved daring his later 
years. Politically he was first a Jacksonian Demo- 
crat, then a strong Abolitionist, and finally a Re- 
publican. In 1S40 he united with the U. P. 
Church, to which he always contributed liberally. 
His widow and daughter are living on the old home. 

Christian Plants was born April 22, 1822, in 
East Finley township, Washington Co., Penn., and 



1470 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



passed his boyhood on the farm, receiving but 

little school education, as his parents were ] r 

and required his assistance on the farm. He re- 
mained at home with them until twenty-three 
years of age, when he learned the gunsmith's 
trade, having a natural inclination for mechanical 
work; he also did cropping on his father's farm. 
On November 26, L846, he was united in marriage 
with Rosanna Marshall, born July 19, 1824, a 
daughter of John and Nancy (McWherter) Mar- 
shall, of East Finley township, and she bore him 
three children: Leonard Martin (who died at the 
ageof eight years) and twins, born August?, 1861, 
one of whom died unnamed; the other, Robert 
Blachly, is a prosperous young farmer of East 
Finley township, residing on his father's farm; 
he is married to Lizzie A. Sprowls, daughter of 
John and Hannah (Reed) Sprowls. 

After marriage Mr. Plants successfully followed 
the trades of watchmaker, gunsmith and stone 
mason, although he never served an apprenticeship 
at any of them, but made a practical application of 
his general knowledge. He has always owned 
some land, and has farmed on a limited scale. He 
is at present actively engaged in general mer- 
chandising, which he has followed several years. 
Mrs. Plants united with the U. B. Church in early 
life, and died in that faith January 24, 1886. Mr. 
Plants is also a member of the TJ. B. Church at 
Fairmount, and contributes liberally to its support. 
He has given valuable aid toward the development 
of Washington county, assisting to place her in 
her present position, among the foremost counties 
of the Keystone State. In politics he has always 
been a Democrat. 

George Plants was born July 13, 1824, in Easl 
Finley township, this county, and received a lim- 
ited education in the common schools, which he 
has made the nucleus to a valuable store of general 
knowledge. At the age of eighteen he began to 
learn the mason's trade with Powers Bros. , of 
Claysville, and served an apprenticeship of three 
years with them, receiving the very modest com- 
pensation of $12 a year. At the age of twenty- 
one he began life for himself, $8 in debt, but 
he had learned the trade, and industry soon 
brought success. On June 1, 1848, he was united 
in marriage with Mary (Goues) Seeman, of East 
Finley township, and the following children have 
come to them: Franklin (deceased April 10, 1850), 
Ethelinda B. (deceased), McFarlin, Mary, Eliza- 
beth. Clarissa (deceased), Leonard (deceased), 

William S., an infant son (deceased), Joseph L., 
Nathan O, Nancy and an infant daughter. Since 
his marriage Mr. Plants has farmed and followed 
his trade. He is a man of exemplary habits, and 
has acquired a comfortable competency. In pol- 
itics he has always been a Republican. He and 



his wife are members of the U. B. Church, and he 
was for twelve years a trustee of the church at 
Fairmount. 



LEVI DAGUE. Among the many prominent 
and honored old residents of West Bethle- 
hem township, none stands higher in the 
estimation of his neighbors than the above- 
named gentleman. 

He is the only living son of John Dague, a na- 
tive of Maryland, born in 1788, who, when a boy, 
along with his brother, was brought across the 
mountains placed in pack-saddles, which were 
thrown upon the back of a mule. His father set- 
tled in West Bethlehem township, where John 
grew to manhood, and married Catherine Horn, 
who was born in Germany, and became one of the 
first settlers of Washington county. To them 
were born the following children: Jacob, John, 
Samuel, Henry, Levi, Dewalt, George, Catherine, 
Elizabeth, Annie and Lavina, all of whom are now 
dead except Levi and Annie. 

Levi Dague, the subject proper of this sketch, 
was born in West Bethlehem township, Washing- 
ton Co., Penn., May 27, 1815. His boyhood was 
spent in assisting in the work of the farm and at- 
tending school in the old log schoolhouse, of which 
he has a very distinct recollection, and describes 
minutely. After attending the German school two 
years, he married Rachel, daughter of Abraham 
Mowl, who, about the beginning of the present 
century, emigrated from Germany to America, set- 
tling in Washington county. Mr. and Mrs. Dague 
have the following children: Abraham, John 
Adams, Adelina, Solomon, Eliza Jane, Emery and 
(Mark, and of these all except Abraham reside in 
Washington county. Mr. Dague has always voted 
the Republican ticket, and has held many offices 
of trust. Both he and his wife are members of the 
Lutheran Church, and command the respect of all. 



fjOHN ELWOOD CRUMRINE is one of West 
Bethlehem's most prominent farmers. His 
if Jj grandfather, John Crumrine, emigrated from 
— ' Germany about the beginning of the present 
century, to Washington county, Penn., and 
here married. They reared the following children : 
John, William, David. George, Abraham, Lucinda, 
Sally, Polly, Susan and Maria, of whom George, 
David and Polly are deceased, the remaining chil- 
dren being all residents of this county. 

George Crumrine was born in 1814, on his 
father's farm, situated on Daniel's run, in Bethle- 
hem township. He learned the carpenter's trade, 
and was considered one of the most skillful work 
men of his time. In 1861 he built the present 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1171 



house of his son John, with no assistance bat that 
of his boys. and to-day it stands a silent but eloquent 
witness of his skill. He received his education at 
the subscription school, a small log cabin with slab 
seats and desks and other primitive furniture. In 
184- he married Miss Mahala Barnett, daughter 
of James Barnett, of Washington county, and she 
bore him the following children, all of whom are 
living: James Le Roy, Eveline, Lucy, Dora, Julia, 
Delia and John Elwood, 

John Elwood Crumrine was born April 1, L858, 
and on February 2. 1882, he was married to 
Emma, daughter of John Myers, of West Bethle- 
hem township. Their union has been blessed 
with the following children: Warren, Leslie. Ethel 
and Grayson, all living. Mr. Crumrine is a young 
man of more than ordinary intelligence, and pos- 
sesses the esteem and cordial friendship of all 
who know him. Politically his views are Demo- 
cratic, and he is one of the leading men in his 
party, while Mrs. Crumrine is as famous for her 
gracious hospitality, as is the name of her husband, 
in his circle of business acquaintances, a synonym 
for enterprise and honor. 



w 



ILLIAM P. IRWIN. This gentleman, 
one of Carroll township's most respecta- 
ble and reliable citizens, claims descent 
from honorable Irish ancestry, one Will 
iain Irwin having emigrated from Ireland to Amer 
ica many years ago, settling on a large tract of 
land in Chester county, Peun. He was a pioneer 
agriculturist, and passed the remainder of his life 
on the farm where his children were born. 

James Irwin was born in Chester county, Penn., 
and in 1827 came to Washington county. He was 
dependent upon his own exertions for a livelihood, 
and learned the cooper's trade; then began farming 
in Carroll township, Washington Co., Penn. He 
married Jane Morton, a resident of Chester county, 
Penn., and daughter of James Morton. Mr. and 
Mrs. Irwin were the parents of four children, all 
of whom are now deceased. They were members 
of the Presbyterian Church, and in politics he 
affiliated with the Democratic party. 

William P. Irwin, whose name introduces this 
biography, was born October 12, 1815, in Chester 
county, Penn. His father owned forty acres of 
laud in Carroll township, Washington Co., Penn., 
which William P. bought, also purchasing a lot in 
Monongahela City, where he erected a house. In 
1850 our subject married Eliza Jane, daughter of 
Benjamin Dickey, a resident of Eallowfield town- 
ship. After purchasing his father's farm of forty 
acres, Mr. Irwin continued to save his earnings, 
and finally bought an adjoining tract of seventy 
acres, upon which a handsome house and other 
buildings have been erected. He has been en- 



gaged in general farming and stock raising. Po- 
litically he votes with the Democratic party, and in 
religion he is a member of the Episcopal Church. 
He has had four children, namely: Mary Jane and 
Margarei (both deceased), Benjamin D., who man- 
ages the farm, and William Porter, also living at- 
home. 




rLJLLIAM FORGIE is a Canadian by birth, 
..// a Scotchman by descent. His grand- 
father, Francis Forgie, a son of Scotia, 
probably of the Highlands, as he spoke 
the Gaelic dialect, was a soldier in the 
British army, and on his retirement from the 
service joined t ho Irish constabulary. He married 
a Miss McClelland, and they both died in Ireland, 
the parents of five sons, named respectively: Sam- 
uel, William, Thomas, Francis and James, of whom 
the four youngest immigrated, in 1824, to Canada, 
making a settlement on the Bay of Quinte, in Has- 
tings county, upper Canada (now Ontario). From 
Montreal to their new home they poled up the St. 
Lawrence what was known as a "Durham scow." 
The nearest mill to their place of settlement was 
at Kingston, some sixty miles east, and thither 
they hail to take their wheat in sacks slung over 
the back of an ox, they walking alongside, and as 
there were at that time no roads they had to be 
guided by the sun to their destination. Of these 
stalwart young men, William followed lumbering, 
and was drowned while rafting in the Moira river, 
which empties into the Bay of Quints (he had 
crossed the ocean several times). 

Francis Forgie, father of our subject, became a 
farmer. He married Elizabeth, daughter of John 
Mulholland, a Methodist minister in Ireland, where 
he died (his widow immigrated to Canada with her 
only son — who was drowned in the St. Lawrence — 
and four daughters, Eliza, Rebecca, Mary and 
Elizabeth, and lived to an advanced age, dying an 
earnest Christian, devoted to her faith). After 
marriage Mr. and Mrs. Francis Forgie continued 
to reside on their farm in Canada. They were 
the parents of six children, viz.: Isabella, married 
to Thomas E. Bell, of Peterboro county, Ontario; 
John and James, in Pittsburgh; Mary J., wife of 
John McCaw, of Hastings county, Ontario; Will- 
iam, the subject of this sketch, and Thomas Ed- 
ward, who died when young. The mother of this 
family died in 1854, and in 1862 the father mar- 
ried a Miss Ramsey, who bore him two sons: 
Frank (working with his half-brother, William), 
and Samuel C. (deceased). She died in 1868, a, 
member of the M. E. Church; the father passed 
away in 1887 at the age of seventy-seven years. 

William Forgie, the subject proper of this 
memoir, was born March 17, 1850, in the township 
of Thurlow, county of Hastings, Ontario, and his 



1472 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



education was received at the common schools of 
the neighborhood of his birthplace. Until twenty 
years of age he worked on the home farm, and then 
proceeded to Red river, in the " Northwest," along 
with the troops sent out to quell the Riel rebellion 
of that year. He and a neighbor, William Mc- 
Oready, bad been comrades in the Argyle Light 
Infantry, of Belleville, Ontario, and when volun 
teers were called to suppress this rebellion, they 
joined the First Ontario Rifles. In the "North- 
west" they served two years, and had a taste of 
the winters out there, which were remarkable for 
their severity. In 1873 Mr. Forgie came to the 
United States, making his first home hero at 
Parker's Landing, on the Allegheny river, where 
he was employed as an oil producer, in which, 
during the twelve years he was engaged in the 
business, he met with varied success. In 1886 he 
came to Washington, where for a time he contin- 
ued his oil speculations, and in 1887 he embarked 
in the manufacture of oil and gas well rig irons, 
cants, arms and pins, etc. He also turns out a 
large number of the far-famed and most useful 
sand reel and tool-wrenching jack (of which he is 
the patentee), vast improvements on anything of 
the kind hitherto made, and which add very 
materially to the convenience and profit of the 
trade. 

In 187(3 Mr. Forgie married, in Parker's Land- 
ing, Miss Henry, who died in September, 1878, 
leaving a six months-old son, who followed his 
mother in September, 1879. Our subject married, 
in 1889, Miss Ida Belle Lytle, daughter of Robert 
Lytle, of Donegal township. The family resi- 
dence, which Mr. Forgie recently built, in Wash- 
ington, is situated on Hall avenue. Politically he 
is a Republican, in sentiment a free-trader: while 
in Canada he was an Orangeman and a Presby- 
terian, and he is still an ardent advocate of Prot- 
estant rights and religious principles. 



FRANKLIN P. SCOTT, M. D., a promi- 
nent and successful physician of Mononga- 
hela, was born December 26, 1839, in Somer- 
set township, Washington, Co., Penn.. a son 
of John Scott, whose father, William Scott, was a 
farmer of Washington county, and died in North 
Strabane township, in politics a Democrat and in 
religion a member of the Presbyterian Church. 

John Scott was born on the home place in 
Washington county, Penn., and attended the 
public schools, afterward teaching for several 
years. He married Lydia, daughter of George 
Pees, a tombstone cutter, and who also followed 
farming. John Scott and his wife settled in 
Somerset township, this county, and afterward 
moved to Washington borough, where they died. 
They had the following children: Mary, George, 



Franklin P., Lydia J. (deceased wife of Lewis 
Dague), Sarah E. (since deceased), William .1. 
(living in Washington county, Ohio), John R., and 
Winifred (both living in Ford county, 111.). Mr. 
Scott voted with the Democratic party, and for 
several years, in Somerset township, served as 
justice of the peace, also for a time as associate 
judge. He was a member of and elder in the' 
Presbyterian Church in Somerset township, and on 
removing to Washington borough, united with the 
U. P. Church at that place, in which he was an 
elder until his death. 

Dr. Franklin P. Scott passed his earlier boyhood 
in Somerset township, where he received his 
primary education at the common schools. After 
the family removed to Washington borough, he at- 
tended the public schools there, and then taught 
for four years, afterward studying the languages 
under John Messenger. He then entered the of- 
fice of Dr. Boyd Emery, at Dunningsville, Penn., 
and in 1859 attended Jefferson Medical College. 
Upon leaving that institution he took a course at 
the University of Louisville, graduating from 
there in 1871, and in 1X89 he took a degree at the 
Medico Chirurgical College of Philadelphia. Dr. 
Scott first began the practice of his profession 
at Mount Morris. Greene Co., Penn., where he re- 
mained for three years, and in 1863 removed to 
Clavsville, Donegal township, Ihis county. In 
1877 he came to his present home in Monongahela, 
and is now enjoying a highly lucrative practice. 

In 1860 Dr. Scott was married to Amelia, daugh- 
er of Samuel Pugh, of Mercer county, Penn, 
whose wife was formerly a Miss Vaughn. One 
child was born to the union of Dr. and Amelia 
Scott — Emma L., a graduate of the Washington 
Female Seminary. She is now the wife of W. L. 
Gaston, and the mother of two children, Mernie 
and Franklin S. In 1865 Dr. Scott married, for his 
second wife, Jennie A., daughter of Stephen Corkle, 
of Claysville, this county, and they have one 
daughter, Anna R. , a graduate of the Female Col- 
lege and Conservatory of Music at Pittsburgh. 
After her graduation Miss Scott was elected a 
member of the Faculty. Dr. Scott is a hearty ad- 
vocate of the principles embodied in the platform 
of the Democratic party, and in religion is a mem- 
ber of the M. E. Church, of the board of trus- 
tees of which he has served as a member for sev- 
eral years. 



M 



RS. SARAH D. HAWKINS is a daughter 
of Henry Myers, a native of Maryland, 
born in 1808. He married Elizabeth 
Drake, who was born March 14, IS'20, also 
'V in Maryland, and they had children as 

follows: Sarah D. (Mrs. Hawkins), Eli (a farmer 
in West Bethlehem township), Mary I. (living with 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1473 



her brother Alva on the old homestead), and Walter 
(living in Washington county). The father of this 
family was a successful farmer; in politics he \ 
with the Republican party. He died September 13, 

1890, and the mother followed him January 29, 

1891. She was a member of the Lutheran Church. 
Of the children of this family, Sarah D. was bora 
August 22, 1844, in West iiethlehem township, 
this county, and on January 12, 1865, was married 
to Joseph H. Hawkins, a record of whose grand- 
father, William Hawkins, will be found on page 
379. 

John Hawkins, father of Joseph H., was born 
on the old homestead in this county, and received 
his education at the subscript ion schools. ' On 
December 10 1S29; he was united in marriage with 
Miss Sarah Young, who bore him three children, 
namely: William (deceased), Samuel A. (farming 
in Somerset township), and Joseph H. (deceased). 
The mother died April 26, 1834, and for his second 
wife Mr. Hawkins married Susanna Farmer, who 
was born August 31, 18(17, in Columbiana county, 
Ohio, and the following children came to their 
union: Jerusha N., born July 23, 1837; Sarah 
(wife of Milton Patterson, living in Beallsville, 
Penn.), born March 3, 1839; John W., born 
October 4, 1842; Mary E. (married to Joseph H. 
Rogers, of Somerset township), born December 1. 
1844; Martha J. (wife of James M. Miller, of 
Allegheny county, Penn.), born February 17, IS 17, 
and Rebecca, born February 3. 1850 (deceased). 
The father was a prominent farmer; lie was an 
active member of the Republican party, serving 
his township in various oflices. He died April 1 i, 
1880, being preceded by the mother October 1, 
1876. 

Joseph H. Hawkins was born April 26, 1834, in 
Somerset township, this county, grew to manhood 
on the home farm, and attended the district 
schools of the neighborhood. After his marriage 
to Miss Sarah D. Myers, the young couple settled 
in Somerset township, where two children were 
born to them, viz.: Jennie N. , born May 13, 1866 
(died August 4, 188S), and Shannon, born March 
9, 1875. Mr. Hawkins was actively interested in 
all progressive movements, and politically he 
voted with the Republican party. 



T^HOMAS M. WILEY, senior member of the 
well-known furniture firm, in Washington, 
of Thomas M. Wiley & Son, is a native of 
the borough, born in October, 1824. His 
grandfather, who was a Virginian by birth, 
was married to Elizabeth Tannehill, daughter of a 
Maryland planter, who at the time of the Revolu- 
tion was loyal to England. William Wiley, father 
of Thomas M., a bricklayer by trade, married 
Martha, a daughter of Massy Harbison, who 



was the mother of eleven children, two of whom 
were killed by the Indians within view of their 
mother, who was captured by them, and whose 
wonderful escape from captivity is related else- 
where. William Wiley had born to him children, 
as follows: John and Martha (both deceased), 
Thomas M., Henry, Maria, Frank, Ellen, William 
and Annie (all in Washington). 

Thomas M. Wiley received his education at the 
public schools of his native town, and while a boy 
learned the trade of cabinet maker. In 1850 he 
paid a visit to California, where he remained 
two years. In 1855 ho commenced the business 
of cabinet making on his own account, in Wheel- 
ing, W. Va., where he remained ten years, at 
the end of which time he returned to Washing- 
ton and opened a small store, from which devel 
oped his present mammoth establishment. In 1876 
he received his son, James O, into partnership, 
and in 1878 he erected his present handsome block, 
on Slain street, all now occupied as a furniture 
store. 

In 1852 Mr. Wiley was married, in Wheeling, 
W. Va., to Miss Elizabeth Courts, a native of 
that city, who died in August, 1888, at the 
age of fifty two years, leaving three children: 
James C. , now in partnership with his father; 
Kate, wife of William Van Kirk, of Amwell 
township, and Anna, living at home. Our subject 
is a Republican, and has frequently served in the 
borough council. Socially he is a Freemason, and 
at one time was a member of the I. O. O. F. He 
is a typical self made man, having from very small 
beginnings, by industry, intelligent effort and ju- 
dicious economy, made an enviable and well-mer- 
ited success. 



IfOHN M. MORROW is a native of the county, 
born March 21, 1850, in the portion of Can- 
^1 ton township that is now included in West 
— Washington. His paternal great-grandpar 
ents, Adam and Elizabeth (Crozier) Morrow, 
came to this country from Ireland about the year 
1804, making their first home in their adopted 
country in Virginia, where they carried on farm- 
ing, and thence, in 1820, they moved with their 
family to Washington county, Penn., where they 
passed the remainder of their lives, the great- 
grandfather dying July 24, 1816, and the great- 
grandmother, February 14, 184(5. They had seven 
children as follows: William (died in Iowa), Adam 
(killed in Virginia by the limb of a tree falling on 
him), James (died of small-pox), John (of whom 
special mention is made further on), Andrew (died 
in New Orleans), Jane (married a Mr. Carney, and 
died in Cincinnati leaving a family), and Susan 
(died when young in Washington, Penn.). 

John Morrow, grandfather of subject, was born 



1474 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



January 2, 1800, in Ireland, and was consequently 
four years old when brought by his parents to this 
country. In 1823 he was married to Sophia Hal- 
lam (a sketch of whose family follows this), and 
they then settled on land in Washington county, 
where the aged widow yet lives, her husband hav- 
ing passed away June '22, 1859. He was a black- 
smith and wagon maker by trade, and many of the 
wagons made by him were used in the construc- 
tion of the National pike, while fifty-six were 
bought by the Government for use in the Mexican 
war. He was regarded as a man of much ability, 
and was not excelled as a mechanic. His old 
workshop on East Wheeling street, Washington, 
is now owned by J. D. Jackson. His widow, at 
this writing, nearly ninety years of age, possesses 
remarkably good health and memory. She is a 
member of the M. E. Church at Washington. 
Seven children were born to this honored couple: 
Adam Crozier (special mention of whom follows), 
Thomas Hallam (died in New York), John Andrew 
(died in Omaha), Robert Latimer (died in Wash- 
ington, where his widow and one daughter are yet 
living), Sarah Margaret (died unmarried), Eliza- 
beth .lane (deceased wife of John McEnas, of Bos- 
ton, Mass.), and William Henry (now living in 
Boston, Mass.). 

Adam Crozier Morrow ( lather of John M.), was 
born August 16, 1825, in Washington county, 
Penn., at the common schools of which place he 
received his rudimentary education, after which he 
attended college four and a half years, but did not 
graduate. He learned the trade of blacksmith 
with his father, and followed same until 1850, 
when he embarked in the dry goods business, 
later taking up the grocery trade, which he carried 
on in Washington some twenty-five or thirty years. 
During part of this time — from 1868 to 1880— he 
kept the "Auld House," then known as the 
"Morrow House,'' and previously called the 
"Rairoad House."' Having sold out all his busi- 
ness interests in Washington in 1880, Mr. Mor- 
row, in 1886, moved to Pittsburgh, where he has 
since made his home. On June 15, 1848, he mar- 
ried Ann Elizabeth, daughter of Col. John and 
Nancy Morgan, of Chartiers township, whose 
children were: Martha, married to Godfrey Cook, 
also of Chartiers (both now deceased); Major Jacob 
Morgan (deceased), whose widow, Alice (Mc- 
Closkey), now resides on Prospect avenue, Wash- 
ington borough; Emily, married to William Cun- 
dall (both deceased); Robert, married to Mary 
Mackie (both deceased); Nancy, wife of James 
Harvey, living in Mt. Pleasant township; William; 
Rebecca, wife of J. R. McCloskey, in Kansas; 
I high, also in Kansas, and Ann E. To the mar 
riage of Adam and Ann E. Morrow were born ten 
children, as follows: John (our subject), Lucius 
S. (born August S, 1852, died at the age of about 



four years), Annie S. (born May 10, 1855, married 
to W. D. Roberts, of Washington), Charles C. 
(born November 30, 1858, now a resident of Pitts- 
burgh), Sallie M. (born June 14, 1860, also living 
in Pittsburgh), Jennie M. (born September 10, 
1863), Hugh W. (born November 23, 1867), Mollie 
and Alice (twins, born in 1870, died in infancy), 
and Thomas (who died in childhood). The mother 
died January 13, 1890, in Pittsburgh, at the age 
of sixty-throe years. The father is a stanch 
Democrat, and has tilled various offices of trust, 
such as member of council for a time; he became 
a member of the I. O. O. F. at an early age. 

John M. Morrow received his education at the 
common schools of the district, and on completing 
the usual curriculum entered Duff's Mercantile 
College at Pittsburgh, from which he graduated 
in 1871. He then received the appointment of 
cashier and bookkeeper for Major Morgan, an ex- 
tensive wool dealer in Washington borough. At 
the expiry of a year he accepted a similar position 
with S. Ewart & Co., wholesale grocers, but in 
1872 he returned to Washington to assist his 
father in the grocery business, in which he con- 
tinued till 1880, when the latter sold out, as 
already related. Our subject then entered, July 
1, same year, the employ of George Davis. 

On January 25, 1875, Mr. Morrow was married 
to Miss Elizabeth W., daughter of M. G. Kuntz, 
and three children have come to bless their home, 
viz.: Eliza Ann, born August 23, 1877; Sophia 
Elizabeth, born January 31, 1879; and Wray 
Grayson, born September 23, 1881. The family 
reside in the comfortable and handsome residence, 
No. 87 East Maiden street, built by Mr. Morrow 
in 1889. They are all members of the Second 
Presbyterian Church of Washington. Socially our 
subject is a member of the Royal Arcanum and the 
Improved Order of Heptasophs, Washington; 
politically, he is a Democrat. 

Mrs. Sophia (Hallam) Morrow was born January 
31, 1804, in South Strabane township, Washington 
Co., Penn., a daughter of Thomas Hallam, who 
was a son of John, Sr. , and Isabella (rJ'ell) Hallam, 
who both died in Washington county early in the 
century, having immigrated in 1763 to this country 
with five sons, two of whom went to the Far West. 
Thomas and John coming to Washington, this 
county, where the latter died of smallpox in 1.800. 
Thomas was twice married, first time to a Miss 
Beshear, by whom he had eight children, all now 
deceased. His second wife was Sarah Voorhees, 
daughter of Isaiah Voorhees, who died in Colum 
bus, Ohio, and whose wife was called from earth in 
Washington, Penn. After marriage, Mr. and Mrs. 
Thomas Hallam settled on the farm in Franklin 
township, where John Reddick now lives. For a 
time they kept a hotel which stood on ground now 
called "• Pancake." Later, having rented their 



WASHING TON COU.\ I > 



117.-, 



farm here, they moved to Wellsburg, W. Va.<. where 
Mi Hallam had bought a ferry, which he ran for 
about a year. They then returned to Washington 
county. Mr. Hallam traded the " John (i. Clark"' 
farm in Franklin township for 1,500 acres in Ohio, 
whither he and his wife moved in 1828, and here 
he died August 1, 1829, at the age of eighty-four 
years. He was very successful in all his under 
takings, but died comparatively poor, having lost 
must of his property by going bail for others. He 
participated in the Whisky Insurrection. Mr. and 
Mis. Thomas Hallam had eight children, viz.: 
Thomas (died in Ohio), Absalom (died in Illinois), 
Sophia (widow of John Morrow), Samuel D. (living 
in Monmouth, 111.), David (died in Iowa), Margaret 
(deceased wife of John Stone, of Illinois), Sarah (died 
in Ohio) and Isabella (deceased wife of Thomas 
Goodman, of Texas). 




H. DAVIS, a member of the prominent 
lumber and hardware firm of \V. H. 
Davis & Co., Washington, Perm., was 
bora in Allegheny (Allegheny Cit\ ), 
Perm., April 25, 18-10, and is descended 
from pioneers of the State. 

George Davis, his father, was the son of Joshua, 
references to whom are made in the history of the 
Davis family of South Strabane township. George 
was a farmer in early manhood, but some short 
time after the venerable Charles Carroll opened 
the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, that novel industry 
won his attention, and next he is found in the serv- 
ice of the Ohio & Mississippi Railroad Company 
as engineer. For many years he followed en- 
gineering, and, only toward the latter years of his 
life, did he resume farming. He was united in 
marriage with Miss Martha Crawford, who was 
a resident of Lexington, Ky., and immediately 
after they located in Allegheny county; subse 
quently moved into Allegheny City, and, in their 
later years, or about 1854, in Peters township, this 
county, where he died, in his fifty-sixth year, De 
cember 14, 1N70. His widow died April 8, 1S7'_'. 
aged fifty-four years. 

George and Martha Davis were the parents of 
six children, namely: Mary Jane, wife of Dunning 
Hart, of Amwell township; Maggie A., wife of 
John Finley Scott, of Buffalo township; William 
H., the subject of this sketch; Wilson C, a lum- 
ber dealer at Saltsbnrgh, Penn.; Martha W., 
widow of Alexander Wilson, of Allegheny county, 
and George B., an architect of Monmouth, 111. 
The parents of this family were, at the period of 
death, members of the Brush Run United Presby- 
terian Church. The father was a stanch Repub- 
lican. 

William H. Davis accompanied his parents to 
Washington county in 1854, and grew to manhood 



here. He received a primary education in the 
schools of Peters township, and completed a com- 
mercial course in Duff's Commercial College, 
Pittsburgh. His marriage with Miss Lucy M., 
daughter of John and Mary P. (Adams) Fife, of 
Allegheny county, Penn., took place November 
10. 1870. The Fifes were represented in Alle- 
gheny county at a very early date, and in the his- 
tory of that section of the State, published by A. 
Warner A; Co., the name is repeatedly mentioned, 
anil the biography of the present head of the fam- 
ily given. William H. Davis and wife took up 
(heir residence on the home farm in Peters town 
ship, and remained there until 1881, when they 
moved to Kansas. After a stay of three years 
(here, they returned to Washington county, Penn., 
where Mr. Davis opened a lumber yard at Hills, on 
the Chartiers road, which he carried on for six 
years. The storms and Hoods, in the springof 1889, 
resulted in heavy loss to him, as the waters rush 
ing through his yards carried away a considerable 
quantity of lumber and damaged permanent im- 
provements. 

In the fall of 1889 he established his yard at 
Washington, Penn. Soon after, his cousin, J. K. 
Davis, became his partner, but he, in the course of 
a few weeks, sold his interests to W. H. Davis, Jr., 
another cousin, who continued in the firm until 
March 21, 1893, when he withdrew, and it was reor- 
ganized under the present title. The children of 
Mr. and Mrs. Davis are: Mary Etta, wife of \\ . 
R. Woods, of Allegheny county, Penn.; George; 
Martha Crawford; Sarah Viola, and Addie Maria, 
all residents of Washington. The parents are 
members of the First Presbyterian Church. Po- 
litically Mr. Davis is a Republican, but the close 
personal attention he gives to his extensive Imsi 
ness interests does not permit him to take an act 
ive part in polities. 




\ILLIAM GREGG. Among the early set 
tiers of Washington county, whose deeds 
are an undying monument to their mem- 
ory, were Mr. Gregg's first ancestors in 
this country, a record of whom is pre- 
sented on page 1207, this volume. 

Henry Gregg, sou of Henry and Jane (Dowler) 
Gregg was born November 22, 1790, on the home 
place in West Pike Run township, Washington Co. , 
Penn. He attended the schools of the period, then 
learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed 
for some years, but finally gave his attention to 
farming. On February 8, 1821, he married Eleanor 
Gregg, who was born in 1 790, in Washington county, 
and nine children were born to them, of whom but 
two are yet living, William and John. The father 
was an industrious, practical farmer; in politics he 
affiliated with the Republican party. Mrs. Gregg 



I 176 



WASHINGTON, COUNTY. 



died in 1841, followed bj her husband in L876. 
Both were members of the M. )''.. Church. 

William Gregg, son of Eenry and Eleanoi 
(Gregg) Gregg, was bom December '•>, 1822, on 
the home place in Wesl Pike Hun township, Wash- 
ington Co., Penn. His educational opportunities 
were very limited, the greater part of his youth 
being passed in agricultural duties; but by energy 
and perseverance be has overcome these earlj dis- 
advantages, andis now a thoroughly culturedgen 

tleman. II" and his brother John, neitl E 

whom have married, reside on the old homestead, 
which contains ninety-eighl acres of good land, 
i bej conduct an extensive business in general 
farming and stock raising. In politics tbej are 
earnest workers in the Republican party, though 
never accepting official honors. They are univer- 
sally known as honest, energetic business men, 
possessing warm sympathies for those who have 
been unfortunate. 

IX Y. SWICKARD, a prominent businesi 

I, \\ man, and proprietor of a well known meat 

f""\\ market in Monongahela, was born May 10, 
J) -■ 1859, in Nottingham township, Washington 
V Co., Penn., a son of Daniel and Harriet 

(Leyda) Swickard, a sketch of whom appears al 

page 735 in t his \ olume. 

1 1, received Ins education at the common schools 

of Monongahela, and in 188 entered into partner 

ship with his father in the shoe business ill that 

t iwn, which continued some four years when it 
was dissolved by mutual consent, and our Bubjecl 
then went into the employ of Stew art I lacked ,v Co., 

as traveling salesman. With them he remained 
in that capacity until 1891 when he embarked in 

his present prosperous business. 

On December '.'. 1888, Mr. Swickard married 
May, daughter of Johnston Coulter, and two chil- 
dren came to bless their union: Helen Irene (de- 
ceased), and Marie ('. Our subject and wife are 

adherents of the Presbyt erian Church; politically 
he is a Demoorat, ever taking an active interest in 
the affairs of his party. Mr. Swickard is recog 

ni/.ed and respected as a useful. lo\al citizen, hav- 
ing at heart the welfare and prosperity of his city, 

township ami county. 



IX MiKI'W McDONALD, son of John Mo- 
/\\ Donald, was horn April 20, IMO. John 
h~\ McDonald was born in 1789,-in Virginia, 

Jl -^ and was a lifelong farmer. In 1803 he 
v moved to Washingtoi county, Penn., and 

the following year purchased 175 acres of land 
which is now known as the old homestead. In 
1839 he was united in marriage with Miss Man 

Fish, ol thiscounty, who bore him the following 
children: Andrew. Gabriel, James II., John, 



Hiram, Man (Mrs. Jennings), Nancy J.. Edith ('< 
and Matilda. Mr. McDonald served assupervisor 
several years, township clerk for twenty live years, 
school director a longtime, and in various other 
township offices. He died iii November, 1853 
Mrs. .McDonald is yel living with her children, and 
en j. lys gi iod health. 

Andrew McDonald has had charge of the old 
place since his fourteenth year, having at that early 
age begun the seemingly impossible task of sup 
porting and educating the eight younger children, 
thus early left without a father. Heroically he 
boiled, and noblj did he succeed in this laudable 
effort. In September, 1862, he enlisted in the 
army, as the other children were then old enough 
to provide their own maintenance. He entered 
( lompany E, Twenty second Pennsj Ivania Cavalry, 
(the Ringgold Battalion), ami fought under Sheri 
dan in id 1 the had les of the Shenandoah Valley until 
the close of the war. when he returned home. ')u 
May 17, 1866, he married Isabella Whitfield, a 

native of this county. Mr. McDonald lias been 
clerk of Nottingham township for the past twenty 
seven years, ami is now serving his third term as 
just ice of the peace, having tilled that office twelve 
years. He has held every office in the township 
with the exception of constable. He is an adherent 
of Democratic principles, and, in religions faith, a 
member of the Presbyterian Church. 



, 




ioi i' reuericK aenrontz, wno was ot urerini 
i birth, and who at an early age immigrate 
to America, where he married Elizabel 



US. REGINA BALDWIN is a daughter 

of Frederick Schrontz, who was of ( terman 

led 

■th 
Schudler, a resident ol' Washington county, 
Penn. She bore him six children : Catherine, Re 
gina, George, Jacob, John and Frank. He was a 
Democrat in politics, ami in religion was a member 
of the Lutheran Church. 

On September 27, is;!:!. Regina Schrontz be- 
came the wile of Thomas Baldwin, an energetic 
young citizen of Franklin township. Washington 
Co., Penn. His ancestors were natives of the 
State of New Jersey, the first of whom to settle in 
Washington county, Penn., was Jonathan Baldwin, 
the grandfather of 'Thomas. At that period Wash 
ington countj was an unbroken wilderness, but 
Jonathan Baldwin settled in Moms township, and 
with the aid of his three sons William. Francis 
and Jonathan - soon established his pioneer home. 

Aiter the death of his parents Francis Baldwin 
was married to Rebecca Hill, a resident of East 
Finle] township, who bore him children a- follows: 
Stephen. Sarah. Thomas. John. I'liobe, Francis, 
Sealy, James, Amos, Silas and Cephas. Mr. Bald- 
win was one of the organizers of the Cumberland 
Presbyterian Church at Van Buret), Washington 
county, and in political opinion he was a Whig. 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



1177 



Thomas Baldwin was born August 7, 1811, in 
Franklin township, Washingtoi Co., Penn., and 
passed lu's early life in og to im] i 

clear the farm. Like other pioneer children, his 
education was necessarily limited to the primary 
ciples of text book knowledge, but in other 
matters his training was more thorough than that 
of the modern scholar. After his marriage to 
Regina Schrontz, the young couple settled on a 
farm in Munis township, Washington county, 
where the} remained until I860, nrhenthej rei 
to the fai I acres which ii the present h 

of Mrs. Baldwin. The children born to this union 
are as follows: Sarah. Elizabeth (Mrs. Stephen 
Milleri, Francis F., Jacob, M Her, John, Silas, 
Marj (Ali>. Jesse Borth), Calvin and Thoi 

Mr. Baldwin was formerly a Whig and then a 
Republican, taking an active interest in political 
matten I or many years he wa< a member of the 
Cumberland Presbyterian Church at Van Buren, 
g an ardent supporter of tliat society. [Since 
the above was put in type, we ha e been informed 
of the .lead, of Mrs. Baldwin. Ed. 



Q 



RANT MONINGER is on. of those - 
educated, intelligent and enterprising] oung 
citizens of Am well township, on whom the 
■ elder portion of the community begins to 
depend. As the strength of the seniors in 
years fails, the) u at u rally look proudly to the bI urdy, 
active young men who are ready to take the bur- 
den of life on their strong broad shoulders, before 
the aged and weary toilers have fallen to rest by 
t be way. 

John Moninger, who was the pioneer of the 
family of thai I >w residing in Amwell town 

ship, emigrated from Germany to America in L801, 
and settled on a farm in Amwell t iwnship, Wash- 
ington Co., Penn. Mis occupation was r < 
and carpentry, in both of which h was yen 
cessful. Bis children were Henry !., George W., 
John. Jacob, Mrs. Mary Harshaman, .lis. Catherine 
Harshaman, and .Mrs. Elizabeth Moore. Mr. 
Moninger was one of the organizers of the Repub- 
lican party in Washington county. 

George W. Moninger, son of John, yvas horn 
January 7, 1812, on the old farm near Lone Pine, 
Amwell township. His lather drovi stock, and 
the younger days of George were passed in assist- 
ing in that work, and in attending the rate schools 
of the neighborhood of his home. Not with stand-. 
ing many disadvantages, he afterward became one 
of the best teachers in the township. To illustrate 
the adventurous spirit of this youth, an mi dent of 
his boyhood days is given: When a 1 • • twelve 

years, be and his father went to Ba ... e with 
-lock, and "young America," becoming . patient 



with the more leisurely movements of his paternal 
ancestor, started home alone, arriving there two 
days before the rest of the party. On reaching 
maturity he began teaching school, a profession he 
followed six Or eight years; then commenced stock 

droving and wool buying, making his headquar 
ters in Washington borough, and traveling through 
Washington and Greene count ios. soon winning for 

himself by his business popularity the appro) 
sobriquet of " Drover George Moninger." He con- 
tinued to prosper in this line until he formed a | 
nership with Morgan Brothers in the wool basic 

when he lost his entire property, ami at th 

forty five yvas obliged to begin the world anew, with 

no capital save that of the old courageous B] 
stronger in him than ever. Within a few years he 
accumulated another fortune, somefl 5,000 1 

000 which enabled him to purchase the R< 

Luellen farm. In September, 1 Mi.".. Mr. Moninger 

was married to Mrs. Sidney (Horn) Swart, widow 

of Amos Swart, who yvas killed at Spottsylvania, 
and they had two children: Grant, bom February 
14, 1869, and Franklin, born August 11, 1872 
Mr. Moninger yvas highly esteemed in his commu- 
nity, and was a representative Republican of his 
town-hip. In the Disciple Church at Lone Pine 

as one of the most zealous workers. On July 
25, 1888, he passed peacefully away, after an 

red and useful life of seventy six years and 
six months. 

Grant Moninger, son of George and Sidney 
Moninger, was born on the old home farm near 
Pine, his rudii ttary education being re 

id at the common schools of the neighbor!. I. 

which was supplemented with a five or six y 
attendance at Pleasant Valley Academy, he then 
took a c urse at the Iron City College, Pittsburgh, 

Penn.. which properly included from eight to 
twelve months, but which he completed in" four 

o ths. He, yvas always one of the brightest 

students in school, and he is gifted with an active 
mind and superior intelligence. Since his seven 
teenth year he has had charge of his lather's estate. 
and is the appointed guardian of his younger 
brother. The brothers have a farm comprising 
350 acres of prime land. When but seventeen 
of age. Grant Moninger united with the Disciple 
Church of Lone Pine, of which he has ever since 
been an active member. 




\ K. GALBRAITH, the popular young 

postmaster of Canonsburg, is a grai 
of William Galbraith, a native of Scot- 
land, who married Isabella Welch, who 
was born and reared in the Ln 
Isle. They came to America soon after tl 
marriage, locating on the old farm near Burgetts- 
town, Smith township, Washington Co.. Penn., 



1478 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



where children were born to them as follows: 
Matthew, James L, Robert (deceased), John (<le 
ceased), William R., Middleton, Jaue, Margaret, 
Elizabeth (deceased) uad Csabelle. The father was 
a stanch advocate of the principles embodied in the 
Whig party, and Berved several years as justice of 
the peace. Be was a member and ruling elder of 
the D. P. Church at Burgettetowo for many ■ 
Be died in I860. 

• lames A Galbraith was born cm the old farm in 
Smith township, Uiis county, and at the age of 
eighteen years began to teach school, following 
(hat profession several years. Be then became a 
clerk at Cross Creek village, this county, oontinu 
ing as such twenty one years lie finally engaged 
in the hardware business at Burgettstown, Smith 
township, and in 1875 wa* elected county recorder. 
At the expiration of his* term of office he moved 
to Canonsburg, and has since been profitably em 
ployed in handling grain and machinery. Be was 
wedded to Mary A. Bebout, of Cross Creek village, 
who Las borne him seven children, namely: Ai 
married to Dora Chambers, of Canonsburg, Perm-; 
Belle, deceased wife of Charles Barding, station 
of the Waynesburg & Washington Railroad; 
W K , whose sk.teh follows; Elizabeth, wife of 
S \. Crosier, a merchant of Canonsburg; Robert, 
a druggist of Pittsburgh, Penn. , married to Anna 
Coleman; and Nettie, wife of Joseph Thompson, 
who is interested in the oil fields of Pennsylvania. 

W. K. Galbraithmvas born December I-, li 
in Cross Creek village, Penn., ai-al when ten years 
of age came with his parents to Burgettstown Be 
entered the high school, and graduated with the 
class of 'TS. After leaving school lie assisted his 
fathei in the duties oi the recorder's office, and 
when tUe term was ended worked one year for the 
now recorder. lie then conducted a tobacco store 
in ( anoueburg foi eight years; then entered the 
i he Central Grain Elevator Company, of 
Pittsburgh, Penn., remaining in the, until 

his appoinment, in 1890, as postmasti r of Canons- 
burg. On November 13, 1884, he was united 
in marriage with Mary E., daughter of .lames 
Munnell. if Canonsburg. They have three chil 
dren: James Lloyd, Katie E. and Robert R. 

Mr. Galbraith has a beautiful home on East 

lu politics he is a faithful adherent 

of the Republican parly, avid in religion a member 

and liberal supportei of the I' I' Church at < 'anons 

burg, He i-, an influential citizen, respe ■<<■■! by all, 



»j"~Y OBERT 0. NESBIT is a son of u 

La^f Nesbit, whose parents John and :\Iartii, 

1 V (Donaldson) Nesbit, came from Cecil 

J) —• ty, Ml., to Washington county. Penn. 

John N'esl it was accompanied by three 

broth ..f whom soon after returned to Mary 

Ian I, while the others located upon a tract of land 



which lies upon the boundaries of Chartiere and 
Canton townships John settled on 119 acn 

land, and children were born to these pioneers, but 
ill the winter of 1837 a deadly fever raged in the 
neighborhood. lief ore spring the fathei' and three 

of the children John, Margaret and Jane- bad 
died. Of the once happy family now remained a 
widowed wife and bereaved mother, who clung 
closely to her on.' remaining son, Robert, The 
Death Angel soon called her to join the loved ones 
gone before, and on April 26, 1843, she too died. 

Robert Nesbit was born in 1800, in Canton 
township, on hi-, father's farm. On June 12, 
1828, he was married to Alary Ann Anderson, a 
native of < lhartiers township, this county, and three 
children were hi in to them, namely: John A., 
Sarah (Mrs. Ed v aid H. Daugherty). and Martha 
(deceased wife ol William Stewart). Mrs. Nesbit 
died September "27. 1X37, and he was afterward 
married to Margaret Shaw, a native of Ireland, 
who canie with ' er parents to America when but a 
child. Tiny Wi re married in Washington county, 
and settled upc n tin- farm where their only son 
Robert D., is now living. Mr. Nesbil took an 
active interest n political matters, and in church 
relation was many years an elder and leading mem 
bet of the United I'resbytei ian Church. He died 
in 1861, and was followed by his wife in 1863. 

Robert P. >esbit was bom March 25, 1841, on 
the old home farm iii Chartiere township, receiving 
his education n the district schools. In 18(52 he 
enlisted in an independent cavalry company for a 
term of three years, or until the close of the war. 
This company was afterward organized into the 
Twenty-second Pennsylvania Regiment, and then 
i ie a part of the Ringgold Battalion. Mr. 
Nesbit took part in the battles of Winchester, 
Fisher's Hill and Cedar Creek. In 1865 here 
ceived an h< notable discharge at Wheeling. W. 
Va., after w i : It he returned to Chartiere town 
ship. On Al ust 26, 1868, he was married to 
Miss Lizzi a native of Chat-tiers township, 

daughter of David and Maria (McLaughlin) Lee. 
They had em, grated from England to Maryland, 
finally lo in Washington county, Penn., 

where tin- eniainder of their lives was passed. 
After his marriage Mr. Nesbit settled on the 
farm which i> now his home. The land is not 
only vain-, I , for its agricultural properties, but 
also for g) which has been developed thereon. 
To Mr. aqi drs. Robert D- Nesbit the following 

children hi v • been born: David H., Robert, Mag- 
gie, Berth- and Lizzie (twins), Mr. Nesbit is act 
i.eh intei ed in the Republican party, and has 
I as lember of the school board and judge 
of in- . He and his wife are members of 
the Qnf Presbyterian Church and are ever 
ready to la helping hand to further any 

worth] '■. rise. 



lT^"E>ts>X 



/ 



w 



ASH1NGTON COUNTY 



r v> 



Miercromble. Chester B. 

Auerc "'""H? ' 

icheson. Judge A. w • 

Acheson, E, I' 

vcliesou Famllj 

Iclieson, George 

icheson. J 8 C. 

eson, John Smith... 

Acheson, Marcus i 

Vckelson, James 

Vckleson, Thomas...... 

k.oMeson.ThpmasH.... 

Adams. Charles W 

Mams. John.. 

Mams. Joseph. 

ms, Samuel 

\~lir«". E. J 

ignew, James 

Aguew, Samuel 

Alken.Johi 

Aiken. Joseph 

Aiken. William l 

Alios. Isaac.. 

Alles I 



7:1 

. 73 

•.m 

, 29 

-'I 

. . 129 

. 682 
29 
910 

. 871 

...IMC 

..1009 

..1841 

1079 

...1079 
230 

^..-l'-^T 

. '.ml 

.. 1277 



ITlUCl 



1>AGB 
..1804 



.. 184 

■ 

.. .'»'! 

89 

■.I 

MS 



Alexander, Dr.Joseph W. 

Alex ler. Mrs. Mary..-. 

Alexander, Samuel... • 
Alexander, Mrs-Susan M 

Alexander, Dr W.H. 

Alexander. WlUlam ■< 

Mien. Una ■■•••■■,•, 

Mien. Sirs. BUM ' 

Allen, George w 

Allen, James II ,-.;•■:' 

Allen, James H. (w 

Mien, Joseph 

Ulen, Joslan 

\ U'-i 1 . M. B , 

Mien, M's. Susannah..., 

Ulen. TheodoreJ 

Ulen. Thomas !■ 

Allison, A. 11 

Allison, Jai ies 

Allison. John. . 

VUison, Jonathan 

Ulman Family 

Ames, Demas 1 

Ames, Jahez • 

Anderson, Benjamin... 
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Anderson Family 

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Anderson, Robert.... 
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Anderson. W. J 

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Andrew, James 5 

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Espey, .'. s 4.-, ;i 

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Ewlng, Hon. .lelm Hoge -14 

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Exline, Mrs. Sarah A - 681 

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i arli ■ , Mrs, Jane 724 

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F rench, Enoch 10S8 

F rench, John C 682 

Freshwater, John 

Fry, simili 1242 

Abraham 

Frye, John 

Frye, Keazen 111 , 

Itoberl ii 602 

Frye, Samuel 

W esl )03 

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Fulton, I en IdW 1113 

FultOn, Ha\ Id S 7in; 

Fulton Family 809 

Fulton, .IdIiii 706 

Fulton, John m 

Fulton, Kobert .1 160 

nuel G 1 169 

Fulton, W. r tiKi 

1 urlon I C 1316 

Furnier Family, The 1093 

Furniet, D&\ id 

Furnier, Henry 1094 

1 urnler, Miss Tine looa 

Gabby, Prank M 

William 786 

Gabby, William A 786 

< lalbraith, Alexander w. . . . 1:171; 

'iiilbmitli, Samuel 922 

Galbraith, William, ... 

Galbraith, W. K 1477 

Galley, John S lira 

Gamble Family 1427 

Gamble, II. J., M. 11 1426 

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Garrett, Samuel 

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PAGE 

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Haggarty, Itobert . 1120 

iiniel 1120 

1 

Halner, John B 

Hair, Mraliam 836 

1164 

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n, Finley B 

Hallam, Itobert 11 886 

Hamiltons ol 1 lln ei Hill... 60 

Hamilton, .lames 

Hamilton, James B 11177 

on, Jami s R 1199 

!i>lin . 63 

Hamilton, Jol n II. 

Hamilton, Park .1 1190 

Hamilton, R. I» 1869 

in, 1 I ,■: 1 • 
Hamilton, William v.. D.D. 68 

1 uiiiiv inn 

Hanlln, A.M 

Hanlin, Francis 1 • 

Hanlln, William 1110 

Hanna, Hugh, M. D 946 

Hanna James 

1 G B7a 

Hanna, John V 11U2 

Happer, Maj. Andrew G 22 

I lapp r. Jolin A 508 

Hapiier, Mrs. Vlolel ■ ■ .50 1 

Harbison, Massy 128 

Harding, \ achel 

Hare, 11 by 

irge w 712 

Harrison, Joseph 966 

Harrison, Mrs. Margaret A. 712 
Hart, Brll 1711 

DunnlD 

iiiii 1. ' . lorge Scott 18 

Hart, 1 ■ 166 

Harvey, John C 1 111 

Hastings, johnjC 

Hastings, William r 270 

■Hathaway, A. N 958 

Hathaway, Jacob ■■ .. 

Hawkins, Col. Alexander 1... ws 

-is. Elijah 1217 

epli 

1 I'll II : 147a 

:i7K 

Hawkins, Mrs. Sar ill Ii 1472 

..is 938 

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Hayburn, Joseph ns.s 

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I lua M 

Hays, Vlej andei 8 

Hays family 

Hays, fieoi ge w 

...... 

Haj s. John 

'I:n II. 127<i 



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Ha/.lett, Samuel 
11. 1 'I'M. William 

id, Col.Chillion W ... 161 

Hemphill, J; 3 1 641 

1 son, .lames I 

Henderson, Joseph 769 

1 i: 
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Henry, A. L 

Henry Famil; 
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Lewis A 

Henry, Robert n 

I ■ 
Ho 1 ■ >i 1 James I E.Piki Ri 
Hoi -"ii .1 11 iesi iban 

Herron, 1 ihn 

Herron, Joseph 10 

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Hill, Roberl ii 

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man, 1 ii as a 

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iit\"ii. 11 1.1s 1; 

Hoogens, isaac 

Hodgens, James 

Hodg< \v 

Hodgens, Thomas 

Hell'i I 



Holme 1 Y... 

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Holmes, Robert C 

Hood, James 

Hood, Mrs. Margaret. 

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Hootman, DavldX 

Hootman. Roberl ( 
Hopkins Family, 'iHie.. 
Hopper, Ai thur .1 

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Horn, Isaac 

Horn, Jacob 

Horn, .leiin 

Horn, w lllii m M 
Horm ■ 1 ■ 
Hornei . William G 
Houston Famllj 

Houston, 1 iaac 

Houston, S. H... 
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Hughes, .inn" " 

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Hiiyli's, Workman, Ji 
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Hunter, Jam 
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Jeffries, Amur 1302 

leffries, Vnilersun 1302 

Jeffries Familj 

Jeffries, lii njamln F I2s:i 

Ji ffrlcs, Joseph J 

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Joiiuston, James 11 lecilj 1169 

Johnston, Janiesi Wash ton) 587 

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JohBston, William .1 nisi 

Jom s Familj [43, 1380 

1416 

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Jones Henrj \\ 

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WASHING !". i \ COUN TY. 



Kahl, I is 

Kammtii or, Franl 1 1 

John,. 

Kaimneiur, Joseph 

ei t. Martin 

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Keenan. William W. 

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Keller, Emanuel W. 

Kelly, .1.1111 s 

Kelso Familj 

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Kelso, Marl.- 1: 

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a ,. 

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Kennedy, Samuel 

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Kerr, Aaron 11 

Kerr, Liidren 

Kerr, Andrew v 

David 

saai 11.11 i|it >n... 
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.. nm 

..1000 

. 632 

. . 931 
.. 999 

. Ml 

-.11 

. mot 
.. 631 
.. 576 

1451 
.. !M4 

,, 
. .la?* 

..145.1 

,.1418 

1114 
1413 

713 
14I-.1 

.-,'.!., 

. 711 

. .,'.«. 
132S 

. 266 

. 2IS5 

.1102 
500 

. 016 

. (189 
R89 

.: 1 
48 

. W!l 

» 1ST" 

» « 

149 

'1.-7 

HI 



PAGE 

Lamb, Henry II 631 

Landefeld, Henry la'.s 

Lawrence, G. V 

nee, Joseph ;i7 

1. J. P 686 

Lawtou, Arnold gm 

1 an Ion, (amoron w 907 

. John 686 

Lawton, .Mrs. Margaret 

Lawton, Mrs. Marj 

i.iaiibi'iiT. Isaac 

•'''. Hugh gSfi 

l.ee, Hugh, Jr 

1 ee, Mrs. Jane Ann 1:121 

1 ee, John sua 

Lee, William 8 820 

Leech, James 

I i ivli Joseph P 14411 

1." ch, I'ressly 

I.eel Family 1424 

Aim iii.'im 769 

Li .Li. Jacob 1311a 

i.r Moyne, Dr. Francis .1 7 

Leonard, John 7114 

rd, John R 7.11 

1 1, William 970 

Rev. William II... 1-11 

Letherinan, John. 350 

l.ifli-i man. John A.. M. I), irji 

Lewis, David ll.. M. D... SO 

Loyda, ' leori e. 604 

Harrison 10711 

Melon 1< ,1 

1076 

mi IS 690 

1 'lini M. 892 

'unity 1016 

ctt.JohnS 1393 

i- S 1019 

I Marl in a loin 

Liggett, Thomas 1393 ■ 

Liggett, 1401 

Liggett. \\ : Ham inn; 

I N 897 

iirs. Kate 397 

l.iil.-v. rhon 

5115 

Dianas 

Llndley, 11,1 . . 
Llndley, Levi 

Llndley, Philip 1137 

Llndley, Sai 1 1; 11:17 

karoo iigo 

I. Inn. Alonzo 202 

Linn, George \.. M. 11 118 

' Wis. lu',0 

tfatthi w 10114 

, .... ,1064 

.41 

1 4-.i 

Linton, Mahlou 42 

Linton, Olive* M 253 

1176 

v ilson 117.-, 

iler H. . . 32 

Lltle.Roli I BOO 

1. in. William 500 

Rdward irm 

H«le, J.A 4.--; 

Foseph II.. M. I).. . .1135 

Moses 1135 

art, George K 1121 

1. "link, John C 71a 

I nu'iin. Samuel ...ills 

long, George leffersou 4i:s 

l.'inf. James 1,., \i. n una 

[Wain 
R 
Luellen, <:■ orgo w . 

Luolleii. Henry 1327 

'.usk. Jaines 11. 1 11 1 

Lyle, Aaron 
l.yl. , Jain 
Lyon, Bei 

. 

i.'lnas II 

' I 1 
1 iac 

1420 

HIcAdam, 1). ,1 

McKrld 

1 ' . 1202 



'i\ Family 71 

*' 'Burney, F.beuezer. ... 12 

uey, Ezra 73 

>' T.nrn.'i. Jaines 71 

JblBurney, .fames .M 12 

Mi Burnej li.lm 514 

uey, J. It.., 72 

Mi' iilie, John 871 

Mc< the, Joseph F s?i 

Mc iin.int, Alexander 1285 

Mi' 1 ' Imout,. lames P.... 

Mi'i iiiiint, .l.ihn 1223 

Met in t. John \ 1228 

MeOamont. John II.... 

McO ' mont.S. A 521 

McOii ,11, David M.. M. I>. 719 
McGaifc,)!, Lodowh 
McOai '.||, Thomas 364 

McCarl Brothers 98C 

M<< 111, .),,hn 

I mas D ... ass 
Mci'asla.d, v iiiiam ■ ,. 

McClain Samuel C 576 

McClatu William N 
McClay.David, Sr 680 

McCIay, David, Jr 575 

McCIay, folio 920 

McCIay, . y 630 

McCIay, 1 -. Martha 1 

ri II 
McCIay, Samuel 

iry.LewisC 140s 

iry. William 193 

McCleary, .VilllamT, 

■ 1, .lexander 
McCleery, a 6 

I ml I'-imilv 
Mcl lelland.H 

II | V " 
McClellaml, 1 ",■ 

■ 
land, I.M 

mas J 
McClure. David 
McCIu 

1; \ 

McGlii i . ,,', n - ( |.. |, , ,, 

551 
. 642 

.1241 

1 '.i'. 



4110 
1169 
una 
609 

11111 

' 

mo 
1207 
509 



Met, 'oil .V. 1 

VfcCoi under 

McCon ■ 
"\iri lonnei 
1 McCui- 

mnell, P.. v 

Ml I 'I'll'K 11. Matin ,„ i, ¥; . 



McConnell. Mattlu w p 

Mef'on 

le, .l.'iin . 
, Mary 11 

McCorkle, William 1; ' 
M.a'.n nii.'k. J ti 

McCormlck, John (! 

McCoi 

McCoj , Alexandi 1 

Mc( oj', Mrs H 

McCoj Dante] " 

.1 'Kill 

net] 
i el.. 

M.'l'i Hy, Tin.' 

Mcrracken M 1 

M.'i'i' udei .." 

McTreadj . Josi nli 



idy. William 

McOrel lit, Smith 

McCrere; . V 

MeCrorj , .Toll 

■ M 
McCnllough, l'i 1 .... 
McCullough, Join ... 
ugh, Rohi s.. 
W. ^. . . 
' [ugh.. 
McOntchen. James 
McDonald, Andre* . 
McDonald, Rdward. 



1273 
,.1273 
..1022 
..1170 

..104a 

.. .v.'.l 

. . 1251 

' 

..1254 

. 702 

,1091 

..1021 

. . 1I7II 
. 7ir.' 

. 802 
. . 13113 

. . 302 

.1807 

7.11 
"91 

,n: 

1 I a: 
127 



McDonald, George.... 
McDonald, Kev. George.... 233 
McDonal I, James 972 

Mcl i.uial.l, John 124 

McDonald, John J. C 1172 

McDonald, Jo'hfl N pj4 

McDonald, K Me. ... 

McDonald, Rev. John M.-- 

Clusky 235 

McDonnell, Patrick H 180 

Mcl 'onnell, David 

McDonough, Henrj (dee'd.) 17a 

McDonough, Henry 632 

McDonough, Henry ll.. M.D 17a 

Mrllnlliillull. ril.'lll.'ls. 1061 

McDowell, Hugh 

Mcl low I'll, Jacob 

McDowell, Jacob F 1232 

McDowell, James 12:12 

McDowell, James W 

Mcl lowell. John 

McDowell, Joseph 

McDowell. Thomas.. 

McElhaney, w, m 1401 

McElwee, John 760 

land, Mrs, Margaret 9 IJ 
McFarland. Samuel 

MeGahey. I.i//ii- 

McGahey, Thomas (dee'd 

683 

. 110 

. no 

10.-. 

. (06 

. Ms 

.1182 - 
.1148 
64 

226 
. 480 

..„ 

>77 

634 

I070 
. 286 
.1077 

.1077 
1283 

■ 

507 
14 

ion 
99 

mi 



McGahey, Thomas 

1 s 1/ 

McGlftln, Nathaniel. 

Mcliough, .1. 1 

Mcl lough, Robert 
Mcl Ion in. Thomas .... 
Mcl lowan, James 
Mcl lowen James 11 . . 

McTlval iharlesG 

Mclh dn, Greei 

McTlvaln, Robert C . ... 

Mcllvalne, James 

Mcllvalne, James A ... 
Mcllvalne, II. m. John A 

M'-'i. ' hnM 

Mcllvalne, V. inli.-lil 

VIeKean, \..C 

McKean, John A., M. i> 

McKi an, John C 

McKean, Robert 

McKeau, Thomas 

. . Airs. Catherine. 

McKee, Hugh 

McKee, James 

McKee, John 

McKei . Rev. William B. 

McKonnan, .Inlin T 

McKennan, Thomas, M. D.. 
McKennao, linn. Thomas 

M. 1 14, 

i in Judge William 
McKennan, William 



Mcli ' man William is, . 

mi, .1. A III7H 

McK inlej . Uexander 

\. !•'. B asn 

n H 1207 

McKnlght, Joseph 

M'T.ain Jnsnph 1! 210 

M ■ I inn. William 

McLean, Squire Henry B 1 

McMannl 1, 1 Ireer 999 

McMannts, John 1241s 

McMillan, John K 7ss 

■ 1 ■••it 1111 

McMurray, Prederick 1802 

McMnrray, Henrj is mr.i 

McMurray, Horvej n»a 

McMurray, .lames 1302 

McMurray, James II wig 

McMurraj , Jam«sM 975 

McMurray John ..175 

McMni raj . Lettli e 1451 

j Bros 1291 

MeNary, Boyd. 12m 

McNary, David. 82 

.. David K 720 

McNarj Family, The si 

Mi'Naiv. .1i |l r "f 

family) 

MeNary, James (son of 

• lames) 

MeNary, John ll 

MeNary, J.C ...... 

■...i.l) 

MeNary, .1. R 

M.'Mnrv James 8 

MeNary, John. a.'" 

.MeNary, Robert C... 



UH.\ 



INDEX. 



HcNary, Samuel 

McNary, 1 liomas 

McNary, W. H.... 
McNary. W ■ J 
McNary. William M- 

McNeill, Boberl 

Mcl'eal I I" 

McPeak. Will mi 
Mcl'eake Bros . Hie.... 

Mnl'licrson. Daniel 

Mcl'lierson, -I"! 111 

McIMiersou, William.... 

McEoberts, diaries 

McVay, Uemas l. 

MiV'i Pamilj 

\i, w iUlams. Jonathan. 

Maldoon, John 

Manes family 

Mancs.John 

Manes. Joseph \ 

Manifold, Boberl 

Manown, James 

Margerum, J. snao 

Minks. Samuel A. ■••••■■ 

Marquis. Rev. JohnS., 1 

Marcinis, James 1 ■ •■■ 

Marnuis. Kev. [1 las. 

Marsh. Col. [■■ M •■••;; ■ 
Marshall. Miss Annl .. 
Marshall Faml..lJ 

Marshall, Hugh 

Marshall, James 

Mai * ill, 1 1 w 

Martin Bros 



Miller, John m 
, Joseph.. 
Miller, Jnlius P.. 
Miller, Boberl W 

Mill'-' 



235 



Family," The (Han- 



.. 113 
. '.KM! 
!HK> ' 

. . '.Hll 

1191 



Ml el . Me,, in " ' ' ■ • ■ __.. 

iMUler.WI in. 

Milne, ■William I " 

Minton, Di Bradlei }« 

Mlnton, George w . . ■ ■'• 

Minton, Mrs. Margaret - 

Minton, Matthia • 

Minton, PhP 

Mini". 'Jo] 

Mitchell, Isaac ■) '• 

M» rae , s K sts 

I, W. II ' ' . 

Mofiiti :,,, 

Moffltt.Jol.nT « 

\i .11' nam i >■ ' '-„, 

Monin ,iS 

Monluger, Grant. 
Moninger, Henry 
Moninger. Jacob ."; 

umery, ,\ ■•', 

Montgomery, James l. 

tgoniery'. Mrs. Matilda. M 

iiicry.Sil 



William. M6 



1-, ■ ■■■ 

Martin I ■ Vn '"' :,, ' i1 ., 1 

Straliane) \\„ 

Martin James. ' 

Martin, John G - 

Martin, John 1 ':. 

Martin, Joseph.. . 

Martin, Matthew >™» 

Mamn. Pei* i 

Martin: Petoi < -.;,•', 

Martin. Bel a ; 

Martin, Samuel.. 

Martin, Samuel i 
Mfrtln>imam<Gam.nsl 

Martin, WU am (smith 

Martin, Wlllam • '-* 

m, William Henry. 

Martin. Zophanlah «™ 

Ma: lell. H""" ;is ■ v.",..,: 

Mathews, Mi P -\mt 

Mathews, Marshal .. ■■•■ " - 
Mathews, William J. ..-.»«« 

ews, James... "« 

Matthews. James < 
Maurer.J Morgan, M. O... ix 
Maxwell. James ■■■■■■ ° 

Maxwell. Bov. Jas. M.. !>•»• _ 

Maxwell Samuel .';,' 

Mealy, a * x 

- 'res „ 

„'•; MaVnia:- 







Mehaffey, Wre. Manna Mounts 

Mehaffey, Mitchell.... • 'Mounts 



Moody, -l"!" 1 
Moore. J - 
Moore, John... 
J, M„ M 

I- s -. v- 

Moore William S. 
Moorh wl Samuel. 
Moorheail. w. B.... 

Morgan, Jo] 

1 ■ 

4711 

■ ■■■■ ,.,,,, 

'lis 

Morris, Em' 

' ''i.'"''- ,'4o 

Morris in, I nlamln l l f'y 

,,,4 

Mori Bon,.ames, ^ 

Morrison, Hr.John . 

Morrison, hseph Scott .... }« 
Morrison, »r.M. l ■ ■ ■ 

,, '!£ 

' "• ,s„ 

Morn ;,., 

' ™s 
\l, rrow, i avi.l. 

Morrow, I eorgc »" 

ihnO. *S 

Morrow, nhn M }*IS 

Horn JiS 



■geel, James. . 

Neel, Mrs. Nancy 

Neely.James 

Neely. John...... 

\, ...i'-, Nathaniel 
I antes Met oi 

lirlsty. 

mos 

William 

Neshil -i"!"' vv 

: , Jonathan 

Nrsl'il. B. I> 

Sesbltt, John 

Nesbitt. John A 

Niehol, Thomas.. 

SI, iiol. Thomas -i 

II, John S 

Micholls. Jesse.... 

Nicholson, John I 
Nicholson, William M 

Noble Famllj 

Noble, Henry C 

Noble, James 

Noble, John S 

Noble, i T, .. 

Sol. In. .l"ll" " 

Noble, l.awrrii'i' 

erl 

I. A 

Noble. T.C 

Noble, T. Ctarl 

Noble, William K 

Noble, Wlsharl 8..., 



Pershing, l/swls. 

ivttit, II I 
i; 

IMiillps, E. I' 

Philips, saac..... 

Philips, Joseiili II- 
Philips. William M 
phillfi)S.Capl K 
Phillips, Soioiiion...... 

Phillips. W. II.. M. II 
phillis family 

phillls, Jacob B 

Piper, Cary. . . 



Plants, ('hristian 

Plants, ' orij 

Plymlre, \. <■ 



■ '' v > 

lolui 

Pogue. John ' 

pollocl r nulls 

. A.l'lall. 
Pollork. M'" anirfr « ■ ■ 
Pollock-, Isaac \ ■■■-•.-,, 
! pollock, James I leneaw I 



.1"7 

■• 

..IH'1 
1361 
1361 



117'. 
r,7 
l.lll 

l.i'l 

I wu 

1 1611 
Ml 

1161 

II I 

i 



Pollock, Ian 



s .Slral.anei ran 



, ..s.Slral.: 
,PS W 






Mehaffey, Bobert i fi I 

.lames } .... 

Mel y, lostah 

Melvln Samuel J. 
Melvln, William 
Mercer, Mrs M. B 

Mercer, M. B 

viorcer William 

Mesta. Henrj . ... 
Metcalf, John 



n 



in 

MileZ'Mrs. Caroline.... 

Miles, Elijah :,.„, 

Miller, Mrs. Agnea 

Miller, Andrew 

Miller, \.W-. ..... 

MUli r.Calvin L 

Miller. Christopher. ... 
Miller, Clinton I,.. ■ ■•••■ ..' 
Miller: Mrs. EUabeth J. 
Miller. George H.. M. O.... >- 
Miller, Oeorge M 

KrBS:.^ 



Mounts, James A . 

ii 
Mounts l 
Mimni 
Mount- 
Mounts, ticharil M.- 
Mounti 

Ml 
I 

Mnnce. r 
M inlii'l 
Muniiel 

Munnel 
Murdoi 
Murrai " 

Murra. 
Murra> 

Mm-'' . 
Mar'- 



O'Connor, Charles : 

oi "in "i. .i.iim. 

Osburn, Geoi ^ ■ '-;; 

Osburn. Jamos.^ 

Osburn. Kobert I "J 

Owen, Ellas p.., " 

Owlngs, Wesley I '" 

Painter. Mrs. Byron 4 ; 

Mo,, lien .... 

Ham .... 
Park Family, John ... »» 
Pa>k Family. Samuel. i«* 

Park. . lames M . ;; 

Park. Bobert • 

son, A. i. 

on FamUy. ■ ••• {•'; .: 

Isaac ' ■" S5 

Patterson, Amos ... .;.••• •" 
Patterson, Alexandei t. .646 

rs 6n, Harrison. 

Patterson.Hi 

rattorson..!: 

, ames .1 ii 

- son, -'a s I. l_"> 

'son.. lames I ■; 

Patterson. James w w 

Patterson • A . M. v 

lohn S 

, Joseph. 

1'attei 

:h:l Vo n 

iir 



James 
Pollock, .Tames . 
r,,iio, k, John »i J 
Pollock, John 
Pollock. Oliver t 

, William B 

Poole. Arthur \ 

Porl ii J. ,; 

Porti r I- ^1 

William... 
Toiler. William I... 

post, Mm "» 

Mrs. Bel ' ;l 

tephen...... 

Potts.T M.i 
Powell. M -■ N i" : '> 

CollnB. 
prall. Mrs. Jane B. 

Prall.John 

Henry...... 

rnard.. 
I'reston.CUH k. 
I'nre.SJas. ........ 

, .p. William W... 
l"i-i"L'. Enoch !• — 

C, .lames 

Prlgg. Samuel 

Prlgg.-WlUlam.;... 

Prou.im. Andrew J 

Proudflt, Jol i - 

Proudfll J .I'" ',' 

Proudfit, John P.. 
IT ,ii, Hit. Mrs. N. Ii 
Prondllt, William . 
Prmines, Indrewi Ham ,'- 
,lrev. (Jell ■■ 

in 



.oi.li.. 

Pry Kami" . 1 1' 1 ■ 

i id '■' 

1TV..I' ' '1 w ... 

rrv . wii lam ii 

Babe, Hiram 

llalney.Hai 

ii 
Kalston, ' ' am 
Kamsi 'J "" 

1 



i ".. 

. 61(1 

. -<>- 

. i 11 

li 



;l 

i 'I 

I..- "■ 

a 

' 
. 52 
.!(«? 

i 
■ i 

,i 


















I IM 



M ' 189 

...";;.'.."ioi6 

M h 

' ' i.'.'iois 
:"'"■ ■ l "i'ii 'H,. | ,oii) i3«3 

1 ■ 

..... ' 1174 

K 

I: V 

:il -I 

li I 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



ii 






i 

1 



I 

-. . . !■ 
'ill 



-. Ill 

. 



T 

John 
P.. 

saxton, David 

Saxton, .1. U 

Saxt i 

Lrthur 1 1 ii.l.-i i. ii.' 
M I) 

Ham 

Mi)' 



..1822 

..1416 

. . I4«i'.' 
..MOO 
.1400 

. 872 

.1057 

i 

. ;r.-, 




. 529 

. 1 172 
.1449 






1 

in;/: 

i 

..Kill 
Mill 



hcott, .fames. M n 

: ii ■ 

lirM 

■ 

■ t ,o 
" I.. '"lIK 

,- 
sha<\. , ... 



r. 

iltaM. 
Smtih, Hi in i 

Smith, Hiram 
Smith, J: 

- i-; 

Smith, Josep 

Smith, w. u 

Sm ' i • 

Ilfi i "" 

' ' ' "i-li 

nlel \". ft ', 

-., 

Spoer, Mrs. El ibetiiB 

s *, James ,.-, 

mi 



lohn K 

i'1'S 

i 
SprlRKs. Joseph 

iii.-t'iV. 
Sprowls Family. 
Sprawls. John..., . "" 

Huron Is, Sim 

K ^^ illlam \v„ \i" 
w 

re \v 

i 
us, John \V 

.... 
II 

"ii. .I.ilm < 



' Unamson, 

■ 
mi - i, 

i John 

rland, Geoi 

be, Samuel c 

i , 
iini . 
Swan, SaraTi \ 
Swan, William... "" 

UUson h 
Swart, B. P 
Swan 

C 



Swart, Jacob 

.! .'■. 

irt, i'l]iii| P 

ml, A. V '" 

ami, John '.'. 












p 



..'.'. 639 
I •.,, 

f. .lames A.. j :. 

&?. 2^696 
5vS*554 

*rt. Wlllia .l, ';■■'■> 

Join I 
Joseph • 



I-M 




"' art, James.. ,. 

t, Margaret A. 

Samuel 

III. Nathan 1( 
layl.ir. Mrs. Ann 

David S., 8r 

e 
George F. 

raylor, Hem 
raylor, Henrj <;. 

- B... 
fayloi lames F 
■ Uatthew ... 
ell li. 
aylor, Koberl (i 
I ayloi , ft iiliani I .. \i 
Clinton.. 

upleton lin.s 

i. David 
ipleton, Samuel \i 

an, James . 
in, James li 
rhomas, A. J. 

'mas, Edmitm 
l nomas, Edward 
rhomas, Isaiah.. 

I nomas, James \i 

'l I 

Ihomas, li 

luonie, James 

\ n.ii 

pson, James 

James \ '" 

riiompson, Mrs. M., n j 

mps m, Most 

l borapson, R. R 

W. G 

njison, \v. s. . 
riiroi kmoi ton, r \ 
niti i o del 

.1 

LNmil 

Sander...."" 

i <•« a , no , | la ,,. 

i Ijali i 
end, Joseph 

': 

In" 

nan, Mrs. Han 
missell, i hai 
i ucker, James 
Inciter, John..., 
iC 
Tempest., 
ruttle. Da 

ttiss Martha i> 
d, Robert 



B. 



... 811 



1171 

1 17n 

1170 

244 

'il 



305 

47- 







643 

172 

1476 



1076 



i 

tins 

■ 

■ 

. 651 
6S2 





IOv7 



661 

651 

292 

396 



.. .. 1137 
Iln7 

847 

1345 

1126 

.... 7711 
. 1214 

7'1 

. ... 514 

....1(177 

....1402 

... 157 
. . . _*j:i 
...1101 

... 924 

... 117 

. . 1 382 
..1157 



Clark M... 
rames.... 

. 



INDEX. 



1485 



. .11 Dyke, James B, . 

Van 1 1', >p, John 

i, janii 

Van i in i 

K i 1 .. I iryden 



\ ".-in K iik. Hiram 

VanKlik, John c 

VanKI k, John n 

\ anKI-k, Joseph 

■I'll \ 
\ anKIrk, Nelson 
VanKIrk, Mrs. Kalpli 
\ anKIrk. Ralph.. 



PAf.K 

... 982 

272 

..'. 272 

...1004 

... 944 
. .. 431 

... 131 
..1041 

... 978 
978 



!.'.'l041 

■. anlf rk, Sin □ 1202 

VanK rk, William ....'"1202 

\ .in Scyoc, Enoch 1417 

\ ,-ni Scyoc, W. A H17 

\ an Voorhis, Daniel.. .. . 688 

\ an Voorhis, Towusend....l05S 

\ alei tine, John sir 

Va Family, 11 

ei sei and Strabam 
\ ■■ Family, Die (ol smith 

D hip) 15] 

Vance, James I :ir,i 

J< 59 

\ ance, Jolin - . ! '1170 

Joseph mi 

' 1 . Robei 1 B 

■ Samuel 59 

inas l' 

un . 

- W. I" 

\ ance, Maj. William 101s 

\\ . w 1 UM 



Willi.. 

« Hiker, David s 

er, Mis Ell; 

I 

1 r.Ji is 1 • 

1. Samuel, , 

... 

1 1 i.-is (i 

Walfa, Abraham 
V, lift I s 

Ward, Mihui'l! " 

^ ird Family 

I, .1: S . 

« nil. Robert 

n 

. V. 11 .,,„ 

Warm Famllj 



Warne, Hiram 

Warne, James 

Warne, Joseph P... 

Warne, M. s 

Warne, W. Park . 
Win i.-ii. Mrs. PrlsclUa. 
... 
1 leorge M.. . 
Warrick. Jonathan T 
Wasson, Rev. Luke J.. 
Watson, David 
Watsoj -. . . 

Watson, .iiiiin 

Watson, John M 
11. Mrs. Ma 

h, lllchard 

W eavi 1 . \il;im 

Weaver, Adam c 

Weaver, Dai Id 

\\ •■;! \ . -1-. 11. n. 11 
W eaver, John.. 

lomon. . .. .' 


»» elr, Adam. 

Mrs. Cynthia 

\\ mi 1 

W ' Ir, Jol 

Weir, fohn x ....... 

Well 
Well I 

el .. 
w elr, Sainui 

. Samuel B. . 

Weir, Samuel c 

w eir. u in. .rii 

Welrich, [srai I. 

Welch James M 

Welch, John 

Welch, James F. ..'."' 

.. 
Welch, James 

1 hew... 
|{ . 
Welch, \N ill... 

James 1, 
Wells, i:. M., M. \>." 
Welsh, Emily I,... 

D. l>. 

iinily 

id 

VI. 



PAGE 
.. . 1346 

1839 

13411 

1348 

.. ..1840 

040 

1211 

276 

1113'.' 

....1181 

....1181 

... 221 
.... 116 

... ■.■hi 

... 654 

.... 640 
.... 640 

.. .. Mill 
HID 

... 1420 

. . . . 1 134 
....1866 

.... 792 
.... 471 

II 
. ... 601 

....1867 

i 

... :C1 

.1 160 

... 74 

. . . 880 



Wherry, Oeorge W 

Illl 

! 

When , 

While. David 

W hir- 1 

w lilte, John Fisher . 

While, J..I111 

White, John (deceased 1 
White, William S 
W lull-man. Isaac .. 
w biting, Waltei I 
Whittlesey.Frederick, M 






I 11.110. A. 1 . . . 
Wickerham, \ W 
.'ii 
1 nomas \t . 
John s. . 

I B 

Williams, E. \ 

ins, James W., 

nms, .icilm 

w llliams, Mrs M. Frances 
■ 

11 
us.... 
I'll 

Wilson Family, The 



1, James il 1 

1 Jane 

Wilson, John P 

Wilson, John S ... . 

Wilson 

i,K. g 

.1 
m, Thomas (Chartiei 
\\ ilsou. riinmas (deceas 
u Ilson, Whil H 

Wilson 

Willlield W.H. 

. • ! . 

tt, Vdah.. 
Wihnett, F. r... M |i 
Winnett, J, ii... 

Wiuti 

Winter, David B 



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1 156 

.. 67 

. 187 
1141 

■ 
1322 

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. 285 

1 . II 



r, William n.. . 

idam . 

Wise, Joseph B. 

rspoon. Joshua 

1, William II. 

tm.. 
Woll I 

'" 
V\ nil... Mrs. Sarah 
■ ttler. Simon. 

- B., ,\i. ;i 

Wood, Israel 1 

John P 

B 

Woodbui 11. John 

N w iiiiilinpii, Joseph 

' a. Thomas 

Woodburn, William 

W 

\\ ' 1 

Woods. Rev. Hem 

w Is, John 

Work 

Wi.ll. 

Worl 

Win 

Wrlghl 

>rge II 

hua 

M right, Sami 

Sarah.... 

1 lomas 

David .. 

Mi Uarj (Clark)". 

Robert.. 

■\ ant, James 11... 



uel 

Kedll 
Zedikei 

. 

er, Matthew 

/.I'll. .la. -..I 



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PAGE 

. .. 37, r . 

..1456 

.1441 

1319 

..1319 

..1288 

... Ho 

.. J I L 1 

. !>43 

50 

.. 711 

854 

..1219 

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. .11170 
. . 0711 
. . 942 
. . 942 
. . 976 
. 748 
. 736 

. 786 

717 
98 

.. Ill 

. 717 

' 
. 7'J1 
.1065 

. 47s 

1101 

.1102 
.1102 
. 1202 

10 : . 

.1364 



PO RT RAITS 



Aclieson, Judge a. w 
Ackelson, James. ... 911 

Isaac 1 ' 1 1 1 

James 8 135 

1 Ji lander, William .1 139 

lames II . , 1215 

Axtell, Luther M 



Bell, George W., M. l> 

.'i-i 1 < 
Ben John .\l 

r, James VV 

Blaehly, Stephen 1... M. n' 

the, James. 
Boyd, Rev. Bankhead 
Braden, John i> 
Brown, lirv. Matthew 
lirownlee, I lai Id ,\ 
Brownson, Rev. J •,,, 1 

D. 11.. 11.. 11 

Buchanan, James - 



. 715 
107 

. 237 

. 875 

. is7 
. 85 
.1237 



. . 76 

.. 533 

< ilil.-"ll, A. I! 105 

ell, Joseph. .. . ire 1 

Campbell, Arthur.... 951 

''■" sey, James, Sr 277 

Chambers, Judge Ja s C. 197 

1 In istniaii. E. I. 



eph 

iry \i 

<'""k..s. ii....: 

' 0X, '...all 



.. 

Isaac 1 

1 1 umrlne, Boyd. 
Cundall, Edward <: '.'... 

Davis, William 

,A.O 

Day, 1. Miih 1 .. " 

!>'' ins. Elmer R 

Dickson, James G . M 
Dickson, William \ 
Donaldson, Jan es 

in, 4'. .1, . 
punn, John M. 

11 J. P .......'.'. 

f.I'.miimi. Robert .1 
Ewlng, Hon. John II... 

Farahee, Benjamin.... 

1 M ." I a,. 
' 

Flnley, Hon. .1. B. 



PAGK 

.... 177 
....1221 

...1311 

. . . . 207 
161 



157 
. .1206 

.. 287 
..1371 

..1111 
. . 45 



• ''"in.. , 
ten, .1. ('.. 



Prye, John 

Frye.S unui I 

<■■ braith, Alexi nder v\ 

Jolin 1 

''■Iraliam. John ..,',, 

hag ' 

on, Joseph 
Hart. James <: . .. 
■ Hawkins, Col. \i< ,. i 
Hays, Jolin ...... 

1 [ickman, Ja 1 !■ 

Hi- 1 "'' . 1 M', id. 

•Hilton, I i as F 

•Hindi)] 

lames 

ler 

11 ■ Samuel 1 . 

I Hunter, James J 

Irwin, Robert \\ . . 
. Ii win. William f! 



a, 
. 37 

.141*5 

. 107 

.1287 

Gil 
. 407 

.1199 



•Jaoksiin, Josi ah I 
Johnson, 1;. \ 

Kammerer, Joseph. 

d; John 1 

Land Henrv. 

G. V 
1 '"'■ ' ..'. 

m, John... 

: 

1: 
Liggett, John S. 

lliam 

Llndley, Di mas ... 
Lindley, Mrs.] evlna 
Linn, Lewis 

ftlcBride, John l; ... 

M - 1 : r: . 

McCleery, Alexander 

McCle 

McCon u .' .1. 

McConi 

I.Jai 



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... '.'17 



. 95 
905 
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. G 

.1399 

.1017 

. list 
.1161 

. 1111 

I ' 



1486 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 



PAGE 
McDonald,. Tohn N. .*.... 126 
Mcttahey, Thomat .... 681 

M.lh. 1188 

Mcllvaln, Robert C .. .1148 

Mcllvalne, James. «5 

Mcllvaine, Hon. John A 

McKeo, Rev. William I: 829 

M«Ki nuan, Thomas M.T i"> 

MeNary, J. D 845 

MeNary, .la s s. mil 

, MeNary, Robert C 1061 

Mehaffey.Joha 789 

Melom | . James 1121 

Miller, James. 985 

Miller. Hiomas — "71 

Moffltt, John 'I 1817 

\i igei . Jai 709 

• Silas 7:11 

Montgomery . Hon. w ii lam. 147 

Moorhead, W. 1; 

- m. (iuyon. 
Mounts, Klcliard M 1481 

Noel, .1: s SG5 

Neely. Nathaniel 



Noble, James 7:: 

Noble, Samuel A... — 781 



Patterson, 

1 1.. . . 
r. m.. 

Paul, Huston 

- k. J. w 

iliiani I 

Post, Stephen 

Preston, Clark,. . 
Prouilftt, John L, 



Ramsey, Thomas, 
Ramsey, W. C . . 
Rankin. William. 
Redd, Thomas C . 
John \\ .... 
Reed, Joseph. 
l;i -1I..I. M. K.... 
Rod ters, Patrick 

Sampson, w.T. . 



.. (61 

. . 868 
..1029 
.1156 
. . <ai7 
.. 611 
. 1117 



107a 
. 949 

. 708 

. 883 

. 1828 



Sanders, Stephen 
1 . James P 

Saxton.S. 8 

VIose 
Robi .1 K 



PAOI 

. I'll 

...1096 

111 



I .1198 

Shaw, Joseph ii r .:i 

rhomas 1896 

Samuel (.. ..1421 

Thomas KKil 

Rev. W. I'.. 

\ I v 1 1 1 M 
Smith, William fWash'ton).. tie 
Smith., William . 675 

lames 669 

Stevenson, Thomas 6 81 

Stewart, John V. 566 

. Jolin v, 1 

- Di . sjiniiii s 299 

Swagler, John 1171 

Swart, < leorge 17. ; 

a Hiram I8S 



'Taggart, Sam 

David S., si- 



..1189 



s 



PAGs 

Taylor, J. F 

Taylor, Matthew 

'I'll. Hill' II 

Towiisenil, C. W., M. n . 

Trussed, Chai les 11 

Pucker, J. M 

Vance, John 8.... .1177 

1 Samuel 

\ an H rk, B el! on 

« .,1 ne, Hiram 

James 1337 

Warne, Josi i>ii P i.m 

Weir, Adam 417 

Weir. William. 

Ii, Israel . 517 

I \Y. II.... 
Il P, 
Work, 8. C. . 351 

Wright, Robert 749 

1. Mrs. San Ii 7ns 

Wright, Thomas. 
Wyfle, Roherl 






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